Since this was the Canada Day weekend, we dropped off our contributions at the home of Ralph and Tina in Walnut Grove, shattering the Sunday morning peace of the neighbourhood. Then we car-pooled to the starting point near the Edgewater Bar campground.

It was a warm and sunny day, so we appreciated the choice of terrain. Initially we walked along the Fraser, enjoying the perfect temperature. There were a number of ways to get down onto the beach — so we did. Some doubled back at the first creek; others took their footwear off and waded through the shallows. Eventually, we had to turn back when the navigable beach trail ran out.

We came to the site of the original Fort Langley, marked with a monument and some historic signboards. Next was a pleasant trail with some shade trees and historic fruit trees.

There was a short stretch of roadway to navigate and then the second part of the walk was a loop through the woods on the Houston Trail, on gently undulating pathways. We stopped briefly at a viewpoint over the Langley Bog.

Finally, we retraced our steps along the river to Edgewater Bar. By this time, we were all ready for serious refreshments.

Back at Ralph and Tina’s place, we had appetizers and drinks while waiting for the chefs to get warmed up. We had a couple of shady spots to choose from: under the shade of the giant magnolia tree or under an umbrella on the patio.

To make everyone even more comfortable, Occasional Arborist Joette wielded her secateurs carefully to trim some low-hanging branches.

A roaming photographer chose to do some candid portraits:

It was a feast well worth waiting for, with Chicken Thighs Ralph and Chicken Thighs Jon to choose from, roast beef, Indian Spiced Vegan Potato Burgers with coriander chutney, and a variety of salads. Then, of course, desserts: rhubarb and strawberry crisp, a berry pie, apple pie, and/or Tiramisu. It is possible that some people had all four, but nobody was checking.

Larrie had such a deeply relaxing nap after eating that we had to periodically check to see that he was still breathing.

Many thanks to Ralph and Tina for hosting, Ralph and Jon for cooking, everyone for contributing to the potluck, and the willing crowd for helping to clean up.

Photos: Angela, Jon, Liz, Michael