June 6-10, 2023 is in the rearview mirror now, but what a week! I’m deeply sad that I had to turn down being in Ogema for the filming of the Mary Baker/ Heritage Canada vignette, which coincided with my trip to Vancouver. But I wouldn’t have missed Deep Cove Stage Society’s production of #diamondgirls or hanging out with a couple of the best friends a gal could want for anything. 

My flight on Air Canada went off without a hitch and getting around the greater Vancouver area proved to be no challenge thanks to my friend Brenda, who picked me up in her Leaf (my first ride in an EV!). After a quick trip to Deep Cove to drop off my banners, Brenda and I went for a delicious seafood supper at The Boathouse, dessert at Rocky Point Ice Cream, and a walk through beautiful Rocky Point Park.

The following day Skipper Brenda and friend Caroline took me sailing in a 27-footer from Horseshoe Bay to Atkinson Point and Bowen Island. The weather was gorgeous—although the wind disappeared after a few hours and Skipper Brenda elected to call it a day. I’ve developed a healthy respect for the individuals who participate in this both physically and mentally demanding sport.

That night Brenda and I walked down to one of her favourite Port Moody restaurants Spacca Napoli. This place was buzzing—and for good reason. The artichoke pizza and truffle fries were to die for.

Thursday was opening night for #diamondgirls, and I would be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous. Four of us went for supper at Osaka Sushi. When we arrived at the theatre, Randy, who had flown in just that afternoon, stepped out from behind a pillar. After forty years, he can still render me speechless. As Daisy would say, “I love that man!”

Did Deep Cove’s twelve-person cast exceed my expectations? You bet. Did I not mention the attention to detail? Instructions about phone use was delivered in a “three strikes you’re out” format. Crackerjack was available at the concession. Intermission commenced after a seventh inning stretch and Take Me Out to the Ballgame.The blocking, pacing, and commitment to character were spot on. I was moved to tears on several occasions in Act Two. The final scene, which takes place at a funeral and which had been axed in the original production, was funny and poignant.

When I met most of the cast and crew after the show, they told me how much fun they had and how much they loved the script. Does this sort of thing ever get old? Never. Instead of going back to Brenda’s condo, I joined Randy at The Pinnacle that night, and it is safe to say that we have fallen in love with greater Vancouver.

The following afternoon, Randy headed to YVR for his flight and I Ubered to Deep Cove to hook up with childhood friend (and poet!) Beth Kope, who lives in Victoria. After we checked into our Air BnB, we went for supper at the Arms Reach Bistro. That steelhead might well be the best fish I have ever tasted.

Beth and I went for a short walk through Deep Cove and marvelled at its secluded beauty. After the show, there was a short Q and A with me, director Val Mason, and the entire cast. Many audience members stayed, and they were curious and appreciative of the content and performance. Beth topped off the night with snacks and prosecco. Yes, I am spoiled.

I boarded my AC flight the following day with a full heart, a bobblehead of a South Bend Blue Sox player (thanks Deep Cove!), two bouquets of flowers (thanks Brenda and Randy!) and a poem I commissioned from One of One Poetry (thanks Sheyanne Sundahl!). Here’s a quote from Diamond Girls:

I am one of many gems

worth not recognized by men

and we gather on the field

the place 

where clarity reveals

it’s not our jobs

to convince

our job is having fun

toss the pressure

with the pitcher

and diamonds 

hit home runs.

Last week was a home run indeed. As always, don’t be shy about responding or commenting. Love to hear from you!