The combination of high winds and fierce waves over the last few weeks took their toll on some waterfront properties around Lac des Roches and Birch Lake. Several trees were lost on both private property and Crown land, particularly around Birch lake where there was substantial logging done in the early spring. A boat was swamped and floating docks and ramps were shifted but no serious or permanent damage was evident except for one travel trailer which took a direct hit from a falling tree at Birch Lake.
Women stay active
Women's exercise and dance is back on Monday nights at the Bridge Lake School. Marisa Peter, founder of Club Excel rhythmic gymnastics, has put her retirement from coaching on hold and has resumed these fun-filled classes for 2011. For several Lac des Roches resident, these past exercise classes developed into an incredible opportunity to partake in the World Gymnaestrada in Switzerland this past July. While the 2015 Gymnaestrada in Finland is a possible long term goal, the immediate plan for the group is to meet weekly for an hour of variable level aerobics and stretching to upbeat dance music followed by another hour to develop a group dance routine for fun and possibly performance at local venues. This class is for any age group with any fitness and flexibility level. If you're not sure, come out to the Monday night class and try it out. Call Wendy Dubbin at 250-593-4538 for more information.
Thistles spreading
Unfortunately, the Canadian and Bull thistles around the lakes have thrived in this year's odd weather. The seed-carrying dander or fluff from these invasive plants are finding there way into everything. One resident found that every green bean from her garden had to be hand-scraped to remove the fluff that clung to every one of the harvested beans, even those hidden under the broad leaves. The spread of these annoying plants may require some human intervention earlier in the season if they are as prolific next year as witnessed this year.
Scrumptious squash
Evidently a dozen thriving zucchini plants is just the right number to feed the residents of Boultbee Road. The entire neighbourhood got into the spirit of creativity when challenged with ways to utilize these healthy and abundant vegetables. Zucchini recipes included barbequed, deep fried, baked, boiled and microwaved - alone, marinated or stuffed with complimentary seasonings. They have been hidden in omelets, muffins, loaves and a chocolate cake. They have also be served at several gatherings as raw sticks, pickled chips and best of all, dried chips accompanied with a thin slice of sharp cheese. It will be interesting to see what the neighbours do with the bumper crop of spaghetti squash to come.
Solid lines
Thanks to the folks that look after our public roads. The freshly painted reflective lines on Highway 24 are a welcome sight, now that we are heading into fog season and the darkness is falling so early.
Book club
Several Lac des Roches ladies car-pooled into 100 Mile House on Oct. 1 for the monthly book club meeting. Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay received mixed reviews from those attending. Next meeting is on Nov. 5 will be held at Lac des Roches to discuss Janet Fitch's novel, White Oleander.
Friends AGM
The annual general meeting for Friends of Lac des Roches and Birch Lake will be held at 7 p.m. on Wed. Oct. 12 at the Lac des Roches Resort.
