I RECENTLY VISITED A FAMILIAR narrow strip of land wedged between multimillion dollar homes off Ocean Park Road in South Surrey, BC. Each time I go to Ben Stevenson Park I am grateful that a forward thinking pioneer donated this small portion of his subdivided acreage on a bluff to the city so that all who entered its gates could enjoy the gorgeous water views.
The sun was out in the early afternoon and lovely black shadows roamed the area like ghosts. My shadow came with me on the stroll and got swallowed up at times by the damp litter of autumn leaves that stuck to my feet.
Shadows of tall trees fell on the narrow pathway that led to a chain link fence.
I reached two memorial benches gifted to the park by families of loved ones who had passed away. My shadow quietly took a seat alongside of me while I scanned the horizon.
I watched as clouds billowed over Boundary Bay and thought about Ben Stevenson's daughters who continued to live in nearby homes as newer and bigger houses began to line the waterfront properties around them. The sisters apparently have visited this little slice of heaven named after their dad for decades and perhaps sat on a bench with their own shadows close by.Postscript: On June 28, 2013, Georgina Strachan (the last surviving daughter of pioneer Ben Stevenson) passed away at the age of 91. I will think of her fondly amid the shadows that dance at the park.
Here are more Shadowy Shots to see from around the world.
Copyright by Penelope Puddlisms
beautiful shots, what wonderful colours, and what a nice park to visit....
ReplyDeleteOh, so beautiful. Made me think of Georgie. I don't know much about Ben Stevenson as a person, but his daughter Georgie has always been one of the kindest, gentlest, and most gracious women I've ever known.
ReplyDeleteK
Such lovely, delightful shadow shots for the day, Penelope! I would love to be able to sit in that chair and enjoy the view! Hope you have a wonderful week ahead! Enjoy!
ReplyDeleteSylvia
Nice beautiful shots, I see you have nice colorful leaves out your way. Surrey has a gem in this lovely park.
ReplyDeleteThe last picture is wonderful, so thought-provoking...
ReplyDeleteI'm especially attracted to all the red in the first photo. Glorious!
ReplyDeleteI HAVE A LITTLE SHADOW
I have a little shadow that always follows me;
My shadow is my best friend, as anyone can see.
No matter where my feet go, my shadow’s always there—
Except, of course, at midnight with darkness everywhere!
© 2011 by Magical Mystical Teacher
What a great little park, Surrey is doing a good job of making sure there is always some extra land for everyone. White Rock should have followed their lead....very few parks.
ReplyDeleteJen @ Muddy Boot Dreams
Penelope this is so beautiful .. that hit of red is fantastic and your shadows are so crisp they are perfect !
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry that so many over the top rich people swallow up so much beauty along the coast line .. to have this tiny strip of land (which should be much larger) is a miracle of sorts .. the two benches are a touch of humanity to remind any who come that every day people (non rich ?) have a right to sit, relax, and enjoy the view ?
Wonderful post !
Joy : )
Beautiful series; I love the one with your shadow falling on the fence and the gorgeous fall leaves!
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting and commenting on my blog:-)