Enjoying a picnic recently at the Brooklyn Bridge Park, Marie and I were treated to an ideal evening and flamboyant sunset that reminded me of Vancouver colors.

Many people were on the lawn around us, some with food and drinks, others their mobile phones. Some were introverted, others a touch too loud. Some absorbed the scene with delight, others simply sat in it. But most, like us, were simply happy to be there.

We spread a kikoi out on the grass and sipped on lightly concealed cocktails, size small. Then there was bread and butter and a pickle salad and unctuous cheese and duck liver pate and humus dip and babaghanush. And Malbec. Hobbits would have enjoyed our company.

And for a moment, by the water, shutter happy and eyes darting, I could have been back on English Bay. ‘Nough said.

Party boat