Summerland Girls

I was away on a girls trip this weekend at Summerland. It is five hours drive away from Vancouver. The place has such a fairy tale ring to it, and it is as close to paradise as it gets. I found myself surrounded by acres and acres of vine yards, fragrant lilacs, mansions with river views and great company :) It was such a contrast to the city life I am used to. Here are some of my favourite shots from the get away. 

This is the adorable downtown of Penticton, not one with high rises and sleek modern designs. The shops were all closed by the time we got there, but the vivid colours still lifted our mood. 

There are so many wineries there in Summerland, it is easy to get "drunk" with just wine tasting. A good advise is to research which are the best ones and just choose to visit a few. My favourite is the Red Rooster, for its stunning views, just adore the red doors. The elephant island is a must go as well, the apricot wine is just liquid goodness. 

photo by Joyce my good friend~ 

Nina and Anthony's Marriage Ceremony

It was a small and simple marriage ceremony, but very "tastefully" done. Shangri La did not disappoint when it comes to providing fine meals in a beautiful atmosphere. I felt very privileged to be invited as the photographer to record this special day for a couple so very much in love. Congratulations Nina and Anthony!!! 

A Garden Story

One day I was pulling weeds from the backyard. All the plants that gives a slight resemblance to weeds were removed immediately. Afterwards I decided to take a walk around the neighbourhood. My next door neighbour has a gorgeous garden.  Amongst the spring flowers that were blossoming, a plant with yellow flowers caught my attention. I have an impulse to pluck out that horrible dandelion. But since it was not my garden I decide to leave it alone. 

A while later, after sunset, I was pleasantly surprised. The "dandelions" have all closed up. The weeds were actually sunflowers. I am glad I have waited.

Sometimes we also have urges to "pluck" out people in our lives, which we deem as "weeds". But with patience and an ounce of love, we might be discover those weaknesses are assets. Yes whether  a  plant is a flower or weed depends on our perspective.  

The Cherry Blossoms around Vancouver are still  so beautiful after the rain.