Summer!

Camping, biking, fishing AND vintage shopping might seem like an odd combo, but not if you head out to Chute Lake Lodge like my honey and I did last weekend. Firstly, must say, do not do this the way we did it unless you love super hard work pushing (yes, pushing) a mountain bike up steep mountain terrain, sand and mountain stream beds. We took “a wrong turn at Albuquerque”. Really, the best way to get there by bike is to take Gillard Creek Road from the Upper Mission, and even that is a toughie. We like challenges. Otherwise, drive the car there, via Naramata or Gillard Creek Road. Take the bikes, the riding is spectacular!

We made it by mid afternoon none the worse for the wear, dripping in sweat, and ready for some more adventure! Chute Lake Lodge has canoes and rowboats for rental, so we snagged a canoe and toured peacefully around the lake. Oh, so beautiful it is! Lilies, dragonflies, and a loon couple! How Canadian!

Later in we jumped into the mountain lake. I have always been leary of mountain lakes – leeches, trout, waterbugs….but although it is a bit coppery coloured, the water is warm and inviting. Coming after that little wee trudge up the side of the mountain, refreshing!

Beer. ‘Nuff said.

AND, vintage treasures!! Everywhere! Owners Doreen and Gary are pretty special people, and Gary has been a collector of totally coooool stuff all his life. He has a store that he opens up randomly for his guests (after they have partaken in Doreen’s awesome pie’s). What GLORY!

Vintage toys, tools, phones, manuals, publications, train stuff, kitchen gadgets and more delights than one little ‘ol vintage lover like me can handle in one go ’round!

 

I coaxed a Red Dial Phone out of his hands that evening, as well as a 1950′s Donut Maker and a few movie still photo’s. What did I really desire? A Movie poster from “Gone With the Wind” from the second go-round at the theatres! GWTW  was my Grandmother’s favourite, and I read the book and saw the movie many, many times. DIBS on that poster.

 

The most drooly item I discovered is a Seafoam Green 1930′s Stove. Yes, repeat, Seafoam. It was enough to make me give up function for form. But not my sweetie. Not a chance. Drat!

The ride down was a blast, we were home in no time, with a very cool weekend in our own backyard in our back pocket!

HIGHLY recommended! And, DIBS on that poster!