I am fortunate in that I actually enjoy the company of my in-laws. Being the only girl, my sister-in-laws feel more like sisters to me. My husband’s sister lives in Southwestern Ontario, but over the years has visited us in the various cities we have lived. This was not her first trip to Powell River (in fact she helped us move here from Calgary six years ago!) but I thought I would tell you about our three days visit this May.

As you may gather, it is a long travel day to get here from Ontario (3 planes plus waiting times) and so arrival night we keep mellow with a relaxing dinner at home and call it an early night. (Keep in mind for guests from the East, that time change really messes with them!)

Tuesday the weather was showers, and a bit cool. We indulged in a big breakfast at Edie Rae’s Cafe at the Old Courthouse Inn. A great way to start the day, the atmosphere at Edie Rae’s is casual and cheery, the food and service both good. (Thank you Tracy!)

Since the weather was not the best, we decided to embark on a shopping tour, popping in to some of my favourite local retailers: Paperworks and The Nutcracker Market side-by-side on Marine Avenue, Mother Nature, and Step Above (the second floor of a grocery store, and what a pleasant surprise it is). We kept our spending to a minimum but it was certainly fun to check out the wares and these shops are all so different in their offerings.

Tuesday evening, the BBQ King of my household did his magic and we enjoyed a nice meal at home. We have a spectacular view of Malaspina Strait, certainly a treat for any visitor. We never tire of watching the tugs and ferries glide across the water.

The forest walk to Willingdon Beach.

Wednesday the rain backed off for us. I should mention that this was the first time my sister-in-law had met our new fur-kid.
Our Malamute Cross puppy is just shy of his 2nd birthday. He took to her immediately. Today was the perfect day for a walk in the woods with the dog (because why go for a walk without a dog?) and our forest therapy took us from Townsite all the way to Willingdon Beach — and back, of course, after a brief rest.

With the pooch tuckered out and ready for a nap, we hit the road to Lund. I had been eager to visit the newly renovated Lund Resort At Klah Ah Men and my visitor gave me the perfect opportunity. I was impressed with the results; a nicely finished gift shop leads in to the Back Eatery restaurant and bar. Staff were happy to greet us, as they had only been open for a few days. We enjoyed lunch on the patio as the sun came out, overlooking Lund Harbour. The food was excellent (I recommend the Bannock Flat Bread!). You must go!

Wednesday evening I pulled my visitor into the community at the Women In Business Awards Dinner. Not the usual tourist thing to do, of course, but we had a lovely evening at the Town Centre Hotel surrounded by Powell River’s most interesting women.

Lunch at Thea’s Tea Emporium.

Thursday arrived before we were ready, her last day! And so, we must go for tea! Thea’s Tea Emporium on Marine Avenue is a little slice of the past. Filled with tea cups, tea pots, and all things tea it’s a cozy spot to converse with favourite friends. We had a light lunch (with mini scones!) and shared a large pot of tea.

We walked it off with a seaside stroll.

The Townsite Market was not open when we were on our Tuesday shopping tour, so we tried it again. The building itself is wonderful and inviting. The market seems empty, although construction for the Base Camp coffee location is underway.

The shops that are there are quite unique and it is worth a stop: clothing, gifts, art, crafts and yes, vegetables. Oh, and a climbing wall too. Here’s hoping the market fills up and becomes the neighbourhood hub it is intended to be.

The Owl & Bear, Townsite Market.

Our final meal together took the three of us to the Seasider Bistro. This restaurant is not easy to find, down the bumpy neglected road past the Beach Gardens Hotel in the south part of town. We sat on the bar side, which I prefer over the too-white sterile dining room.

The bar side has a warm friendly feel and offers the same menu. We had excellent service and enjoyed our meals and the view immensely. It was a lovely finish to my sister-in-law’s visit to our little bit of paradise on the west coast.

Hoping our Three Days In May gives you some ideas for your next visitor!

Happy Hosting,
Julie

View from the Back Eatery patio, Lund Resort At Klah Ah Men.