Larry & Kate's space: Travel

Merry Christmas to all

Mon, 24 Dec 2007 20:23:50 GMT

Merry Christmas to all and Peace on earth.

This year is quickly coming to an end and it has been a very busy year.From the east coast of Newfoundland(Canada) in January to the west coast of British Columbia (Canada) in December we have travelled,saw many sights,met many interesting people and just had a wonderful year.Kept busy by decorating after our arrival but it is just wonderful.Up in the mountains it is so beautiful when we get a gentle snowfall.The trees glisten.Even without snow it is beautiful when the fog drifts through the valley up into the mountaintop.

RAIN forest

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 06:44:21 GMT

After all this time it finally is the RAIN FOREST, it has rained for almost the last month non stop.With just a few days of no rain(Still overcast) we are finally seeing why it is the rainforest.

After finishing the house painting,I travelled to Belle River for my grandson's 8th birthday plus a visit.It was really nice,I had a short visit at my old workplace and talked to the guys and found out that the work and stress has taken its toll on other peoples bodies as well since I have left.it is a very demanding hard paced schedule that has to be followed and after a while the old body lets you know.I hope Roger and Angelo are progressing in their recovery ok.

It was really nice to spend time with my daughter and grandkids,I stayed there so I could spend more time with them.I arrived before school went back so we spent time at the water park as well as going to eat out which everybody loved.

There were a few house repairs to be done,fix the fence,hang a door on the shed(a free door)trim tree branches,put up a couple ceiling fans,shampoo carpets,paint a new captain's bed for Tori,run dish coax to dylan's room.It was great to be there even though a couple of days were much warmer than what I have been used to in Newfoundland and B.C.Even with all those work projects i did get to spend quality time with everyone.It was really a nice visit.

Dylan had a great birthday party with just the few caring people present,we had KFC and ice cream and cake so who could ask for more.

He got more computer games than anyone needs but he also has enough physical activities like soccorr and hockey to keep his blood flowing.

After about 10 days I was off to visit my brother,I had planned on staying the night figuring my flight was the next day but when checking my ticket I found out it was the following day,I considered calling back and changing the date of my visit but then figured why not go anyway.so my daughter drove me,actually I drove her car while she ,on the way we stopped to visit Kate's old Church to view the changes they have done to the interior.Quite impressive,changed the choir loft and updated the interior colors.Also they were planting more greens around the yard the day of our visit.

On to my brothers,Tanya had to stay her distance from him as he recently went through some radioactive implants for cancer.So she only stayed for a short visit then she was off home to get the kids from school.

My brother and I had a nice visit then we were off to meet his friend for dinner.Not only was the rib dinner at Montanas good but it was made even better by my brother paying...

That night we had a really good talkfest then I suggested we should visit our cousin Doreen in Grand Bend.So the next morning he called her and said we are on our way over.She was upset because she had no warning to pick up something for lunch/dinner but we all think that was good because we all sat around and had a really good chat for about 5 hours.We have never been close and this visit was likely more talking than we have done with each other in 40 years since most of our previous visits have been at funerals.

On the way back to my brothers,(Ken) place we stopped at a small diner and this was my treat.At home we had another good talkfest then to bed.

The following morning after a quick breakfast I suggested he drop me at the airport and he could get on with his day.We both agreed we also talked more with each other than we have in 60 years.It was a good visit.

Onto the westjet home,we stopped at Winnepeg,Calgary and Vancouver and then home.A very fun week or so of visiting many people but always good to be home to Kate..

After arriving home I have tryed to paint the railing around the deck.So far I am about halfway with about 12 hours of painting left to do but it may have to stay til spring if this rain keeps up(or coming down).

30 gallons of paint later

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 18:39:44 GMT

Another great day on the mountain.It has been beautiful since we arrived almost 3 months ago.For a few days it got to 33 c. but that is unusual for here.Most days are between 14-18.The deer like to pass through our property and the other day I noticed about 50 quail walking up the driveway.Of course the drive is all uphill and amongst the trees so they felt at home,as I'm sure they are in the bushes by the drive.We had 6 days of rain about a month ago but thats been it.

Since when we arrived the wood siding on the house appeared to need work so I decided to paint the house(that was certainly a weak moment)Since the house is so large and high I didn't know what I was getting into.And the wood overlaps so no way I could use a roller..#o gallons later--with a brush-- and it looks much better.Today the roofers are here as part of the roof shingles were torn off in the violent winds last December..So 2 sections of the roof are being done today.There are 6 different sections all together.I tore down a leanto shed at the side of the house,as that was the first thing visible as you drove up the drive.Now some time I will put another patio where it was.Not just yet as we do have about 180 feet of deck now and we have been spending a lot fixing up since arriving.But the weather has been great for working,except the 33 c. on the ladder were a bit much.I have a nice farmers tan now anyway.My old jeans and t-shirt have been used all the time during painting,with just a few washes,so when i am finally done they will be thrown out or framed,one or the other.Very colorful looking..,

The dogs just love it here,I was worried at first if they would wander off but not to worry..They stick within 200 feet ost love eating the grass since it is very fresh and moist with no sprays of any kind.

We go for hikes in the rainforest a lot and the boys love that as well,very tiring for them and us as well..

I will put up some photos of the house since the painting has been done

Still busy busy busy

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 05:45:00 GMT

It has been a busy 2 months so far here in Sooke.We have almost finished unpacking,I have tryed to fix the basement up for book storage.We have 4 bookcases full of books as well as some still in boxes but !!! getting closer to being unpacked.

We have tryed to paint the exterior of the house since it was beginning to look a little shabby.So far 24 gallons of paint applied by brush and still at least 6 more days of trim plus 2 smaller sections to do.It has been about 60 hours of labor,some up a high ladder as the sides are around 28 feet from the ground and some sides have only a 4 foot surface to put the ladder on the ground so I have needed a "watcher" in case of falling..So far no falls...

I was busy for about 2 full weeks(when the temperature got up to 36 c.,which is unusual for here,now I have a really dark tan around my neck(a real red-neck)but it has now rained for 6 days so I guess this is what a rain forest is really like.It is beautiful some days as the clouds wander through and you can't see 20 feet at times then it clears.The deer seem to stay in the trees when it rains as we haven't seen any for a week.

Today we drove to a different park,they are all beautiful.One tree was at least 35 feet around.Of course Kate had to hug such a large tree.Then the dogs went in the ocean chasing sticks and getting dunked by the surf..All are tired tonightToo tired to read our new Harry Potter book.

At least this rain gives me a chance to work inside although I did tear down a shed on the side of the house that I think we can do without.Every time I tryed to take some of it down the rain would come around so I just kept working in the rain to get it done..

Time to sign off and get some rest.

wildlife

Sat, 23 Jun 2007 06:39:58 GMT

It is quite beautiful here on Vancouver Island in the rain forest.Yesterday we walked the dogs in a park and we checked out all the big slugs,I mean big.. and in the rain we saw 2 tiny salamanders on the path and as always deer.great beauty and fresh air,we met someone who has 350 acres near here and she has bears on her land,we don't need those here,the dogs wouldn't know what to do.Another great day today.a little rain but so slight it didn't even get us wet..

Just a short update

Fri, 15 Jun 2007 04:51:56 GMT

just a little update,i am going to upload 2 groups of photos.The first group is related to our cross Canada trip,not all areas are covered but a few highlights,then a few photos of our house and property in B.C.

ONE DAY AT A TIME

Wed, 13 Jun 2007 05:54:10 GMT

We are still unpacking,seems endless.

Brady made it home looking like an Angel with a halo,or else like a lamp with a lampshade over his head.when we picked him up at the vets i decided to pick him up myself to pt him in the truck,big mistake,but I did it to keep him from ripping his stiches.After getting home he was running around and playing like nothing had happened to him.i guess people should heal that quickly.He was fighting and tugging with Sam the same day,tough dog.

We didn't take him for long walks for the first few days but I'm sure it didn't matter,he was up for anything.

We still haven't had a lot of rain but people tell me it will come.

i walked around the property and tryed to find the lot markers,thats hard enough on a normal property since the small iron posts aren't sticking out of the ground much but worse when property on a hill covered with trees and debris.But I managed to find one side of the lot so i will work on finding the other side soon

We still se deer all the time,very nice.

Shopped for a car for Kate as she sold her other one in Newfoundland just before we left.We met a really nice young salesman and decided to get a 2007 wave,not new ,about a year old with only 15000 kms.We drove it home today,nice silver small car,we should save a little on gas since we have had to take the big "rig" whenever we go anyplace,nice to travel and to haul the dogs but too big for day to day driving.

We picked up a cabinet to put our towels and bedding in,16 pages of assembly instructions,500 screws and 28 wood panels as well as other small parts too numerous to mention,should keep me busy til winter.(or spring)

Living on a moutain is great except the other evening I decided to take a walk,it was good for the 2 kilometers downhill but the return uphill was a killer.I think the road goes up about 300 meters in the 2 kilometers so it is a mighty big hill.

Maybe we will get a chance to take the dogs to the beach swimming sometime soon,I know they would like that.

At least now we have most of our pots and pans unpacked so we have some meals at home(not that we need much food)I heard today on the radio that Victoria is # 1 in the world for men living long,something to do with nice weather and lots of exercise,I wonder if I am included without the exercise...

Still unpacking

Mon, 04 Jun 2007 04:03:54 GMT

We have been at our home for about 17 days and it seems the pile of boxes is getting a little smaller..??

We found our bed and matress around the 5th day but at least we had an air matress to sleep on(as long as we kept the dogs with their claws off we were ok).

About the 8th day we found the coffee maker then a couple of days later,the toaster,so now mornings are getting better.

After a week also,we invited a few people over for a barbeque,mistake or not at least we were motivated to put a few things away and get a couple rooms to look presentable.The barbeque went ok,nothing fancy but everyone said they enjoyed it.

Another thing,we live in the rainforest but in all the time we have been here we have had about 20 minutes of gentle rain,(I know i will likely regret that statement at some point).

One room used to be a young boys room,bright green walls with black doors,we decided to make it our dining room,so after a few coats of paint,new curtains,new lights,we were in business.

One day we thought there was a bird trying to get in but after a while we determined we had a bird trying to get out,I retrived the small bird before our 2 retrievers did, and released him out to the wilds.I,m sure he was thankful I got there first.

Kate said a bird in the house is bad luck,well she was right,the next 2 days our dog Brady was looking poorly and had a few accidents at night,he brought up about 3 good sized rocks,then one morning I saw blood on the floor and he didn't eat his breakfast,anybody who knows Brady knows that he always eat anything he sees;we called a vet right away and they said to bring him down,since it was a Friday i thought we better get him in since by Monday I thought it would be too late the way he looked.So in we went and they checked him,he had lost 13 pounds,(we are thinking of taking up eating rocks)then they said he better stay for x rays and blood tests.By the time we arrived home they called to say he had a rock in his small intestine and they should operate.We gave the go ahead and by 1:30 in the afternoon he was on the table.They called to update that they took out a large rock and that they thought the intestine,though damaged would likely heal.The vet calls every morning with an update and says he will likely come home tomorrow,monday.In the meantime our other dog Sam has been really happy having us to himself and the house to himself too when we are gone but I'm sure he misses Brady,he's like a kid that likes it when his sister goes away but also is happy when they come back.

We have a couple of deer that we see most evenings and that is nice.Also we have learned that slugs in B.C. are different to what we had in Ontario,the ones here are about 3 inches around and 5 inches long.Big and ugly but good for the soil i understand.

Thats all the news I can think of right now.It has been very hot here but some of that is because our bodies are still on Newfoundland weather.

Day #25 Across Canada

Sun, 20 May 2007 04:36:00 GMT

After our breakfast at ihop,we drove to the Richmond mall so Kate could shop.Then we were ready to check out the ferry schedule and upon arriving we purchased a ticket and went into line and within 30 minutes we boarded and were off.It was such a beautiful day and the ferry crossed between 2 islands and it must slow down to do that,just a great voyage,an hour and half and then we drove to Victoria,picked up our key and headed to our house.

After a 45 minute drive we arrived and were quite worn out.Since all of our furniture is still not unpacked we set up our air matress and went to bed.About 4 in the morning we were cold and I found a sleeping bag to cover with.The dogs wouldn't leave our side,worried we were taking off again.

Finally got some sleep but dogs got up early and wanted to get in the SUV to go again.

We now have lots of unpacking and setting up to do so we may be a few days getting this going again.

Hopefully we can go back over our recordings we made as we travelled and add more things we forgot to write when first doing this blog.

Day # 24 Across Canada

Thu, 17 May 2007 02:42:42 GMT

I hate to repeat my introduction all the time but we awoke to another great sunny warm day.

We had a great breakfast in Hope,BC then we were off towards Vancouver.It is a short day today..

We drive through more gorgeous scenery,more vineyards,farmlands,just great again...

The mountains are all around us now..

Finally we arrive at our motel in Richmond(just outside Vancouver),I check and find we are on the 3rd floor which is no good with 2 dogs,so I check with another and find I can have driveup so off we go to check it out.It is good so we carry in a little luggage and then head off to see Stanlet Park.I must admit that after all the way across Canada with little problems we (me) get lost about 3-4 times,my gps has trouble keeping up with my before or after turns.Finally we arrive at Stanley Park(this is the same Stanley who donated a cup to all Canadian hockey teams except Toronto ha ha)We put the leashes on the dogs or visaversa and proceed to walk around.Such devestation from last winters winds.Trees that have stood for hundreds of years are now down flat,some still standing are 150-200 feet tall so it is unreal to see.On some trees the roots appear too be only 10 feet deep which likely is the cause of some of the toppling.Still it is beautiful to see natures forces in destruction..

After a walk around with the dogs we go back to a relaxing dinner.Tomorrow is hopefully the last leg of this journey..

day # 22 Across Canada

Tue, 15 May 2007 05:00:11 GMT

After a short day Sunday we get up and turn on the heat.A little cool in the morning ,we kick Sam out of bed and then we feed them and go to get a coffee.It is another beautiful sunny day.We are planning on a good days drive to Kamloops but you know,,,things change.....

The mountains are just beautiful with their snowcapped tops.Snow on the tops and along the way the ground is snowcovered and we see a frozen lake..We stop for breakfast at Lake Louise,nice restaurant,mountain view.Then off we go and guess what,mud slide at Rogers Pass,past Golden and road is closed..We ask the girl directing traffic and she says the last she heard is that they are considering pulling out the workers because of danger..We ask what to do..She says she thinks nothing will be open till morning and suggests going all the way south and around.Past banff but on the other side of the mountains.Ok we decide,why not..Gods Plan for us..

off we go and much more driving today than planned..Around Windemere we see many more Hoodoos,more than yesterday,we also see mountain goats and deer.

The mountains are still snowcapped and just beautiful as they surround us here.

We are soon very close to the USA,and we are entering Kootnee pass,it is awesome,it goes up and up and up until everything is snowcovered but THEN we go down down down,the smell of burning brakes and the signs for truck runoffs really dig into our souls..Finally we reach the bottom(or so we thought)We are planning on spending the night in Castegar,we did not realize that to get there we had to go up another 2500 feet-but then--down another 3500 feet in about 2 miles,breathtaking doesn't descibe it...

Finally we arrive at the hotel..Good night.

Sam and Brady are going to have to tell their version when we are done this

Dat # 20 Across Canada

Sun, 13 May 2007 16:35:13 GMT

Up to another beautiful day.But that would change.

We checked booklets to see what to do and decided to just take the dogs to a park for a walk but first we would stop to say hi to Jamana as Kate didn't come last night when I went to see her and Sami.Their home is about 5 minutes away so off we started,partway the airconditioning fan quit,Great i said,then the windows wouldn't work,then the lights quit.Soon we arrived at the alley behing their home and just behing their house the suv quit running.Kate took nthe dogs to their yard as it was getting about 22 degrees and with windows closed the dogs were hot.I tried to start the car but the battery was dead.I decided to walk to the Ford dealer by our hotel.A long hot walk in more ways than one.They were too busy and couldn't look at it until monday.Back I started to Sami's,i called him and he stated he would leave work early and bring a jumperbattery.

He arrived and started the car before i got back but as soon as he disconnected the battery it quit.Finally I arrived and we decided it was the alternator.

He hooked the battery up and we closed the hood and off we went,me following him to Canadian Tire.Traffic was busy and it was about 8 kms away.I missed a light that he made it through so there I was wondering where he was.The fan stopped again so I knew the jumper battery was going dead now.I didn't try the windows so it was HOT.

Finally I saw Sami in the left turn lane waving at me,over I moved and followed.We went down a street and turned and traffic was backed up as far as I could see.Lets go I said to myself.Finally after a few minutes we were off.We arrived at Canadian Tire,in I ran,can you replace an alternator for me I asked..NO we are too busy...I asked,do you have one?yes he stated,Good...get it out I am going to park the suv before it quits and we will do it here.Out I ran,parked the car and sami got his tools out and started to work.I ran in and brought the alternator out.i got my tools out and there we were side by side like in Windsor.Lots of comments from shoppers but in about 20 minutes we were done.

But the battery was dead and it wouldn't start.I ran inside again and the counterman said I could use his jumperbattery.We got it running and the cashier said"have a nice day" I said,it's getting better.

Back to Sami's we went and Kate was exhausted from the dogs,they were just wanting to play and check everything out in the yard.Sami and Jamana made a wonderful barbeque for us and they were getting ready to drive to edmonton to visit friends overnight for moms day.

We thanked them for everything and we left.

all the way across canada,in the prarie,in the northern ontario mountains and our car breaks down in the alley behing our friends house.Thanks od for looking after us.

We went out for dinner and treated ourselves to an icecream after the hectic day,(The dogs too)

We still can't believe how fortunate we were.Some people would be upset but we ar thankful for God and friends...

Day #19 Across Canada

Sat, 12 May 2007 15:07:03 GMT

As usual another wonderful day weatherwise.We left Regina and headed out to Calgary.A great nights sleep and dogs are ready to go.

For miles and miles we could see flat prarie plains as far as you could see.Then we would see another 2-3 mile long train.

There were many more lakes than we thought were here.

Along one stretch we could see a large white mountain in the distance and once we were closer we pulled over to look.It was still a few miles away but it looked about 300 feet high and a mile long and as far as we can figure it is a potash mine.It really shows up in such a flat area.

Later on our drive we arrived at a lake that has huge piles of white material and a large power shovel in the water,we assumed again that this is salt.We will have to do further research but they were both interesting to see.

Further along we could see small ponds in the fields with a white ring around them.

Many herds of cattle but not as crowded as Ontario beef farms,it seems the cattle have a much larger grazing area here.

Finally we were driving through rolling hills where you could almost see where the glaciers had cut paths into the hills as the water run off.

Just before approaching Alberta we were hit with a short 10 minute rain storm,out here you can see it building for miles and we thought maybe we could avoid it but it hit us with a rather strong force and large drops but just for a short time,it actually helped to get some of the bugs off the windshield.

It was now beginning to get warmer by midafternoon,it got up to around 22 but we were in the truck so not a problem.

We arrived at Calgary around 6:00 p.m. and after driving across the plains and being spoiled we were now in rush hour with busy roads.Our gps found the route and we arrived at our hotel,very nice room,econo lodge,after bringing in the luggage we went off to a nice pub down the road and had a great scottish dinner .

After dinner Kate was worn out so while she stayed with the dogs I went and had a good visit with my friend from Windsor,Sami.

We had a really good visit sitting around his campfire in his backyard and his wife and kids all say they love Calgary and woundn't go back to Windsor.People here are more kind and friendly.After our visit Sami drove me back to our hotel as I had walked over to his house,it being only 20 minutes away.

Another great day.Tomorrow we are taking a break and staying an exter day here.

Day # 18 Across Canada

Fri, 11 May 2007 14:04:42 GMT

We left Winnipeg into another sunny day,temps a little cooler,around 11 instead of 29 like yesterday.today we have planned to go to Delaraine a small town about 20 kms from North Dakota.This is the town where Kates dad was born as we have heard that his father was a dentist here and this will also be a good way to get off the trans Canada and see a little remote Manitoba area.The road heads fairly paralell with the trans Canada for a while and its a good road but many more farms and elavators along here.Very lovely.We notice most of the trees are around the houses,to protect from winter winds and cool in the summer.

We stop at a great roadside park and explore the area.They have built bird houses in the marsh,the houses are cylinder in shape about 2 feet long and about 8 inches around and are made of a moss material.We note there are lots of ducks,geese,red wing black birds as well as others.

Then we proceed southward and we actually encounter some large hills which is different than the flat prarie we have been driving through.

We arrive in Delaraine and after a lunch at a small restaurant ,DJ'S.we proceed to the library and chat with a couple of people there and check books and old newspaper reels but unable to find much.We do find articles describing dentists coming through town on the train and will be in the second floor of the hotel performing service.Quite interesting.The town has about 200 residents so we are not sure how many back in 1910 but we had fun anyway.

Our gps takes us down a country road to get back to trans Canada,I stop and the dogs run around and then I see dust coming so put them back in and drive away,about a mile away I said"did I put both dogs in?"Kate says"you are losing it aren't you?"I stop and check and they are both there.

Yesterday we saw all kinds of burning fields where they burn off the straw and here today we see more results of blackened fields.

We also see some old style elavators which are quickly disappearing as they are replaced with more efficient new ones.

Then the gps takes us down another gravel road then into what seems like a campground.There is a rather large lake-Oak Lake- so we stop and both dogs have lots of fun chasing sticks we throw into the lake,even Sam appears younger and having lots of fun.

Soon we are on TrandCanada and there seems to be construction forever,it extends right into Saskatchewan.Beautiful here but seems to be less farms along the road.Many farmers planting.

Finally we arrive in Regina and after a delightful dinner at an Italian place next door we get ready for bed.The dogs are already snoring.

Day 17 Across Canada

Thu, 10 May 2007 14:18:04 GMT

Just another beautiful day,temps went up to 29 c. but a/c was working good in the suv.As we left Thunder Bay we approached another wide load as we did yesterday,seems like a lot here likely coming up the lake on freighters,after a short time they stopped so we could pass although they do travel close to the speed limit anyway.

Not as many mountains just smaller hills and lots of lakes everywhere.so still much twisting in the road just not up and down as much.The scenery is not as spectacular as yesterday but still good.Trees and rocks,we passed a granite quarry and the rocks along that section were very nice to look at.

The road here follows beside a train track and at times there were miles of grain cars,then next we would see huge lines of containers then again we would see coal cars,very nice..

Soon we approached a sign stating we were moving into another time zone,still a ways to go in Ontario,this is definitly a large province,not just Toronto as some people think.

But soon we were approaching Manitoba.Almost immediatly the land flattened out .A short while later we passed a sign stating we were halfway geographically across Canada.manitoba seems so flat compared to Ontario.Each province is so unique in its own right.

Day # 16 Across Canada

Wed, 09 May 2007 12:40:30 GMT

We awoke again to a fairly good day,a little overcast early but not raining.As we drove from Sault Ste.Marie it began to get quite foggy in places.We noticed ice and snow on the lake,this we figure was the cause of the fog.

About 20 minutes north we pulled over for the dogs.We drove down towards a harbour and it was actually a beach.The dogs ran and played and Sam went in the water and started dragging out big limbs for Brady to play with.The water was smooth with cross lines that looked just beautiful.By the beach there were 4 loon swimming,not bothered in the least by our presence.One was more white than the others.

As we drove Kate commented on the large moose signs reminding us about moose at night and wondered out loud why are there no bear signs ?

The road today was 700 kms long and not 1 kilometer was either around a corner,up a mountain,down a mountain or all at the same time.

We passed some mines owned by Barrick,Bill williams mine and some more.Very large block like structures.A large pipe went over the highway which I assumed was for water to clean the ore for getting the gold.

About 40 kms from ThunderBay the traffic was stopped and after about a 40 minutes stop we started to move,all day we had noticed police escorts for large units and figured it was just one more but as we moved along we could see there had been a fire and it had jumped the road causing the police to shut down the road for most of the day.I heard if we had been 6 hours earlier they would have turned us around.So thanks that we were later.

Just after that stop the traffic was down to one lane for construction.I decided to pullover to feed the dogs.They jumped out,ate,and immediately jumped back in,I guess they didn't want to be left out there.Another day done.I would definetly recommend travelling west on the shore of lake superior to anyone,the sights are spectacular..

Day # 15 Across Canada

Tue, 08 May 2007 12:27:54 GMT

Yes another beautiful sunny day.We left Sudbury and knew we had a short drive just to the Soo today.Great drive and we noticed the pine trees here look like typical Christmas trees type whereas in Newfoundland they have a topknot,we aren't sure why but speculate possibly from the winds.The rocks here look similiar,very large.

We stopped at a diner in Bruce Mines for a delicious lunch.Coffee great and we noticed the french fries to taste real.We think possibly homemade from Russett potatoes.

Then on to the Soo and about 20 kms from town we saw a field with about 100 bison,not sure if they are raised for meat or the reason for such a large herd here.

Off for the rest of the trip and after checking in we took a great walk along the boardwalk along the river edge,very wonderfully done and spectacular view.It was beginning to get a little overcast but just a hint of rain.

On our way we passed the people protesting the circus with signs saying "NO DUMBO"

We stopped later at a restaurant I believe called west 142,we both had delicious steaks.

Back to our room and Brady had my t bone and Sam had a large dentbone we bought and they both enjoyed Kate's bacon from her filet.

Another great day done,tomorrow a long drive to Thunder Bay and the weather report is 26 with a humidex of 31.We shall see.

Day # 14 Across Canada

Mon, 07 May 2007 13:14:25 GMT

Another day of rest.It seems every Sunday works good for us to do as the Bible says to take a day of rest.

We slept in a bit later than usual then after breakfst we went to Science North,what a great site,especially good for children with many hands on places for them to learn.We enjoyed the self guided audio tour.It explained the rock structure and the plates under the earth shifting and the fault line.Also about the meteorite that hit here millions of years ago.Then we watched the IMAX movie about Everest,very interesting and then a 4 d movie about bushplanes that was a ride simulator with moving seats,water spray and a snake like object brushing our legs.Well worth a visit for families.Then we just relaxed and walked the dogs a few times around the park.Then baqck to our room to rest.great day...

Day # 13 Across Canada --Half way__!!!

Sun, 06 May 2007 13:43:04 GMT

And yet another beautiful day.We stayed overnight in Brampton and met Steven and Ha (Nephew and his pregnant wife)at Dennys for a nice breakfast and great visit.He is off to Switzerland to visit his dad just recuperating from hear surgery.

After leaving we headed for Hwy 400 and off to Sudbury,great scenery,a little like Newfoundland but green grass and the trees are taller..

We stopped at Parry Sound (Bobby Orr country)We had a nice walk with the dogs by the river then lunch at Don Cherrys and back on the road for another hour.Some construction along the way but traffic light.

We arrived in Sudbury and after checking in we drove to the Science North area and walked the dogs.Of course they both went swimming in the lake,Brady bringing large rocks up off the bottom(I don't know how he holds his head under water for so long)

They had fun..Then we drove towards Big Nickle mine road,large piles of some sort of dirt that is being planted with trees I believe.Then we drove up to the 30 foot high Big Nickle,Quite a beautiful thing to see also,there was a gala there since it was around 7:00 pm,lots of people dressed up in suits and nice dresses.

Back to our room and to bed..

Day # 12 Across Canada

Sat, 05 May 2007 12:44:50 GMT

Blessed with another beautiful sunny warm day.After breakfast and packing up we moved off again.

Stopped in Tilbury to do a little car lisence business then off on our way.

Called my brother but just left a message,as we got closer to London area I called again and agreed to meet at coffee shop in Lambeth.So after a short walk with dogs around service center park,we were off to meet him.

Arrived and had a great visit with him,his friend Julie,her daughter and granddaughter who operate the coffee shop.Talked about his health and his future work plans and then we were off.

Hugs and handshakes and away we go.

Stopped in Kitchener and after finally finding the retirement complex after getting lost,we had a very nice visit with Aunt Bette.She is feeling much better since moving to this place with better care and her legs have improved to the point that she is able to walk outside at times with just a cane.Last year she was unable to even get out of bed.

Off we went and found a Kelseys to have a late supper(8:00 pm)Then after about an hour we arrived at our motel and went very quickly to bed...

Day # 11 Across Canada

Fri, 04 May 2007 12:22:46 GMT

Another beautiful day,sunny skies warm.

Drove to Tilbury after a great breakfast at Golden Griddle.Walked the dogs around the park then drove off to meet Dave to complete our income tax.Had a wonderful visit and talked about our winter in Newfoundland and our travels.Then off to have lunch with Bob and Shirly.

A very nice lunch and a wonderful visit,discussing the whole scope of things,Religion,politics and travel.

The dogs had a great run around Dave's yard then the same at Bob's,around the yard,through the barns,just a great time off the leash.

Then off again,I dropped Kate at Connie's and I went to visit Kim.Kim was gone working on his daughters roof,such a great dad.So his father in law Neil was there mowing the lawn and I had a great visit with him.

Back to the Church yard and the dogs had another great run around.

Then over to pick up Kate at Connie's home.

I watched a little tv while they visited then Howard came home and we had a nice visit with him.

Off to meet Tanya nd the kids and her new beau - Jordan for dinner.

It seems like we have just been eating today.

Ran the dogs at the park in Belle River then off to Kelseys.

A nice dinner and visit but Tori was so wound up she didn't eat and was quite a busy person.

Finally dinner over,said goodbyes to all,gave Dylan a kite and a little money.

Also gave Tanya a card for Mothers day and her birthday in a couple of weeks.

Back to motel and beddy bye.

Day # 10 Across Canada

Thu, 03 May 2007 13:10:55 GMT

Another beautiful sunny day..We awoke and packed and took off from Burlington,the farmers were planting corn along 403,the skies were blue.

The drive was very nice,a short stop in Woodstock for dog stretching then off.We stopped at a park in Tilbury for the dogs and us,lots of water,I guess major rains lately,fun walk.

Off to visit Janna and her new baby,we surprised her but she didn't seem to mind,showed us over 300 photos of the baby,grandma likes taking photos.Beautiful mural on bedroom wall of lion king by baby's dad,he did an excellent job.

Then off to visit Tanya and Dylan and Tori in Belle River.House looking really good,she has cleaned off deck front and rear and stained a nice color.Tori was off at other friends and Dylan was still at school.

\In a short time I went to pick up Dylan and we went to the park with the dogs.Sam remembered being at this park many times before when we lived here.But it was really soaked with lots of water covering the grounds.They have cut down a few trees and also put in an ashphalt walkway,nice improvements.Then we picked up Tori and went back to Tanya's home.

Off we went for a great dinner at Eastside Marios,nice visit with everyone.

We went to checkin at comfort inn and off I went to wash a few clothes while Kate watched the boys.

A great day in our travels..

Day # 9 across Canaa

Wed, 02 May 2007 13:57:55 GMT

We left Burlington and travelled to St.Catherines to meet an old friend of Kates from school.The day was overcast and some rain.

The dogs got to have a good walk around the park in Grimsby and then we met Lynn and had a delightful 3 hour lunch with her talking about friends from the past.After lunch we drove along the wine route and stopped at the same park in Grimsby for the dogs to run and play.

We proceeded to the grave of Kate's mom and walked around the cemetary for a while.

We dropped off a couple of cards for our friends we had dinner with yesterday then proceeded to Burlington.

I decided we would stop at Dickens for dinner.It is just an older pub but we had many great times there with Kate's mom.

After our dinner we went to the motel and had an early evening to rest for our drive to Windsor/Belle River..

Another pleasant day on our journey..

Day # 8 Across Canada

Tue, 01 May 2007 13:02:53 GMT

After tiring the dogs out during our walk along the Rideau we all went to bed early.We got up early and got the truck packed for the trip to Burlington.

It was another beautiful day with light traffic and Canada geese in the fields.Near Belleville a farmer was planting corn.

We drove into Toronto around 1 and figured we should do fine with our 2 o'clock appointment in Burlington.Traffic slowed but we still made it in time.

After our appointment we drove to our motel and checked in with a bit of our luggage.

I checked the wireless but it didn't seem to be working,the front desk gave me a booster but it didn't seem to help so we left to meet some friends for a visit and dinner at their home.

I walked the dogs around their backyard which is actually an orchard.The dogs loved all the green and the large area,they wanted to run different directions and get me tied up.They ate a lot of the green grass.

After a delicious roast beef dinner and talking about their visit to Vimy(Margaret goes to any event that the Queen is at) we loaded up and left for our motel.Tired again...but great day visiting great friends..

Day # 7 Across Canada

Mon, 30 Apr 2007 00:05:53 GMT

Today was another rest day.Sunday IS the day of REST...

After a delightful breakfast at a busy Perkins we headed off to downtown Ottawa.The day was beautiful and after dropping Kate off to tour the art gallery I took the dogs for a walk along the Rideau canal.They enjoyed that as they sniffed along the trees and bushes but then it started to warm up and as we were done it was up to 17 and they were puffing,I gave them a cool drink and drove downtown again.

It was too early to meet Kate so I parked in a shady area and walked up to Parliament Hill and Major Park.

Great to see,makes you proud to be Canadian.Statues , great buildings,Chateau Laurier and all the great things to see there.I was surprised at how many people out today,seemed like we were in the height of tourist season.

Glad we came here since we lived in Newfoundland for the winter and are travelling across Canada to live in Victoria..

Had a delicious dinner at a fish diner downtown,we were upstairs and watched as the people went hither and thither.We were surprised at the people wearing heavy coats as we took ours off and carried them on our arms..

Great day in the capital of our great Country of CANADA !!!!!

Day # 6 across Canada

Sun, 29 Apr 2007 13:29:51 GMT

Today we took a break and relaxed..It was a rainy day so I took the car to WalMart at 9:00 a.m. for wiper blades and an oil change.After we went to the mall near our motel and did a little shopping and a lot of people watching.

Then we took a leisurely walk through the experimental farm area with the dogs.It seems everybody else in Ottawa had the same thought..Many,many dogs running around,supposed to be leashed but few were causing many tense moments.

We went back and relaxed for a while then decided to see a movie.The only decent one we thought was on was "Hoax" with Richard Gere

a true story about a man writing a book supposedly about an interview with Howard Hughes.It was a decent movie.Surprising to us the admission price was $3,we are used to $10 at most places,so no matter how terrible a movie is it still will be worth $3..

Not too exciting today but we certainly needed a rest...

Day #5 Cross Canada

Sat, 28 Apr 2007 15:08:54 GMT

We left Edmunston and it was cloudy,still good for travelling.Proceeded to Quebec,and stopped at a roadside rest area(Quebec has many great stop areas)walked the dogs down a roadway where picnic tables are located,after a short walk we encountered about 2 foot drifts of snow so good thing we didn't drive down there.Dogs had fun and it was beginning to sprinkle a bit ,Brady encountered a couple of dogs in another car and the man said he would just go to the next stop.Brady feeling his oats...

Proceeded along the St.Lawrence and beautiful scenery along there,farms stretching from the river to the hills.Many Steeples..

We missed our turnoff for crossing the bridge in Montreal,too much traffic to get over on a Friday night at 5:00 so we checked and found there was another bridge further along,so after about 10 kms.,I read the sign wrong and missed that too,so on we went for about 3 kms,ending up in a reservation with many smoke shops.We turned around and made it to the bridge and over the river.Found the correct hwy 20 which took us to hwy 40 to 417 to Ottawa.Still raining.Found our hotel easily,walked the dogs and went to a place close by for dinner.Recommende by hotel staff.Lonestar Texas Grill..The place is large with 3 floors,people outside and lobby full,we gave our name and they said an hour and 15 minutes wait.So we waited in a large room with bigscreen tv with hockey game on and load enough to hear a block away.Finally got to our dinner table and that area is really load and noisy too.Found to be overrated in our opinion.Food ok but not great.Also found the place to be about 4 girls to 1 guy..

Back to our motel,Comfort Inn, for the night....

Day #3 cross Canada

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 12:31:25 GMT

Awoke to another sunny day in PEI,a little cooler but sunny and bright with white puffy clouds again,very blessed with good weather.

Had a quick breakfast and then we decided to head off to Alberton to visit our friend Rev.Evelyn who has just moved here from Ontario and built a new house.She was born there but has been away for a long time.

We set the address in our Microsoft Maps and off we went with it's directions.We found out later we could have just followed the road from just near the motel but it was interesting anyway.We changed roads about 3 times and drove through beautiful farmland with beef cattle,horses,sheep and many potato growing operations.Very beautiful.Then the directions told us to turn off onto this small sideroad almost backtracking where we had just driven,as we drove the road went from red dirt to deep red mud,finally I decided wven though we have 4 wheel drive this doesn't look good.We turned around and a trucker said yes the road is closed further down.So a good decision on our part to stop...

Kate checked the maps and directed me a different way.

Found to have a Presbyterian Church about every 5 miles,some not much bigger than a house.

All the way to Alberton it was very pretty and clean.

We stopped for lunch at a nice little town and walked around the abandoned railtrack that has been converted to a walking trail,very nicely done.There is a very strange looking building there,looks almost like a German or Russian structure,strange lions etc.on the side of the building likely a restaurant at one time but no signs to indicate what it is or was.

Further aslong we encounter a wooded section and the houses are not as neat and well kept as we have been experiencing but just a short section.

On we went to Alberton and found the house,rang the bell a few times and could hear television but no answer.Walked to the back of the house and there was Evelyn digging in the mudding area that will soon be her lawn.She was so shocked to see us there.We had a great visit for a few hours and she has a very efficient home on one level with space well used.She found the plan in the newspaper years ago and she bought the property 30 years ago.

Beautiful view of a river from her backyard,the river is at least 1/4 mile wide,looks like a lake..

Around 6 we ventured off and stopped for a nice dinner of scallopps and then back to the motel and to bed.another long day.But very nice and relaxing..

Day #2

Wed, 25 Apr 2007 12:33:20 GMT

On day 2 we woke to the announcments on the ferry of "the Captain has advised that we will be docking in one hour".So up we get at around 6:30 in the morning,dressed and try to wake up then down to wait for our chance to go to our vehicle.As we were sitting there,a hand came on my shoulder,I turned and 2 friends from Greenspond were standing there,we are off to visit family in halifax they said,and they wished us well on our journey.

As we finally got driving the sun was up and the day was beautiful.A half hour from the ferry we stopped at a little park to let the dogs stretch their legs after sleeping in the car overnight.They ran and played then discovered a small lake nearby and went swimming for a while.Finally we were off again.Quite tired but determined to venture forth.Up Kelly's mountain we went then stopped at St.Anne's view for a few peacful moments to enjoy the beauty of the scenery.

Further along we stopped for a little breakfast and drove down the side of Cape Breton.Quite a nice day.

Drove across the Canso causeway and traffic still light and temp up to around 16.

Through Nova Scotia and just enjoy yhe beauty as trees starting to glow green and sky and water just so beautiful to enjoy.

Stopped a couple more times for dogs to stretch and they find water on both stops to get into.

Finally through Nova Scotia and just inside New Brunswick we vere to the right to go towards PEI.

We arrive at Confederation Bridge and what a site,something like 13 Kms. long and very high and just as you arrive at PEI it veers slightly and goes up even more,a grand site.

Drive towards Charlottetown and the red soil and very clean farmland and roads are a beautiful site to behold.It really is beautiful.

Finally in Charlottetown and check in and try to rearrange some of our kit in the car that is very full.

Out for dinner and a short tour around downtown then off to sleep around 11:30..Very long day...

Day # 1 of trip

Wed, 25 Apr 2007 00:49:14 GMT

Well the day finally arrived and we were up early finishing loading the car,cleaning the house,shuting off the water,draining the pipes and saying the final goodbyes.As we were ready to leave there was a blinding snowstorm,Newfoundland didn't want us to leave...Off we went to Gander to finish a little legal work then out of there around 2 in the afternoon.Walked the dogs in Gander then we took off with our fully loaded car.After a while it started to warm and soon up to 15,what a change from earlier.As we approached Deer Lake on the side of the road grazing was a young moose,spotted and so lovely to see.Then we kept going and as we went down the coast towards Port Aux Basques we watched the sun set over the mountain range then as we kept going we saw the sun again and then it set behind the mountains again then further along we watched it dip into the ocean,then out again then finally it gave up and sank into the ocean...Where else can you see that many sunsets in an hour..Magnificent...

We arrived at the ferry with plenty of time to spare but better early than late..

Watched a little of the hockey game then off to our cabin for a sleep.The dogs were sleeping well in the car..

Day 1 is over...

Getting ready for cross Canada trip

Sun, 22 Apr 2007 13:36:54 GMT

This has been a very interesting spring in Newfoundland.The ice pack has come down from the north and trapped many of the sealing vessels.I know some people don't like sealing but I find it to be less cruel than raising and killing chickens.

We have watched as icebreakers have had to fight their way through the ice packs(some near us are 12 feet thick but others are thicker) to free the trapped longliners and tow them to a safe haven.Many have been out for over a week and some have only got 1-2 seals for their efforts and sustained very expensive damage to their boats as well as enduring very life threatening times.One of our friends was stranded for 3 days as his motor seized up on the ship and he was at the mercy of the ice and high winds and had to try to keep the ship upright,not able to leave the wheel house even to sleep.

Tomorrow,Monday April 23 we hope to start our journey across Canada with our two Black Labs.It should be fun and we hope to see as many friends and as much of Canada as we can during the journey..

Getting ready for trip across Canada with 2 Black Labs

Fri, 13 Apr 2007 12:38:01 GMT

Well we are finally in the final stages of getting ready for our trip fromthe farthest point East in Canada(on the eastern shore nof Newfoundland)to the farthest point west (rain forest outside of Victoria B.C.)

I have not been very good at keeping this blog updated but I will strive to update as often as possible on our trip.Travelling with 2 people and 2 large dogs may be a little stressful at times but we are planning on short driving days with no agenda.As we see something interesting we will stop and see,as we pass by friends and relatives we will do our best to visit but no precise agenda so visits will be spontanious so some people may not be available.Hopefully our camera will function ok as a card failed in February and we lost our granddaughters second birthday photos.

Today there is sun shining and most of the snow from last weeks storm is melted, just the remaining 4 foot banks by the side of the road to melt.

Today is the one day for sealhunters so they were out at 6:00 a.m. to get their quota.We have been watching the ice floes when we walk the dogs and we can see the seals on the floes.

I will try to write this more regular.

GETTING READY FOR OUR NEW LIFE

Fri, 23 Jun 2006 19:37:06 GMT

Here it is,June 2006,as we get ready for the next step in our life.We have just both retired and as a way of changing our pace and lifestyle to get ready for our next phase we are planning on selling our house in southwestern Ontario and moving to Newfoundland's rugged coast for the winter to get to know each other again as well as our two Black Labs !!! Sam and Brady..

If all goes according to plan,next spring we are going on an extended cross Canada trip from extreme east (newfoundland)to extreme west (Sooke).

As the days and miles unfold we plan on updating with words and pictures..

June 24,2006.we are waiting to sell our house and pack some more.sunny and hot..