Merry Christmas from Tampa!

Merry Christmas everyone!

We hope you enjoy your holidays, family, friends, the turkey, the gifts, the cheer, the snow (if you happen to get any!), and maybe even the mistletoe!

We are enjoying a thoroughly non traditional day. the boys got up and went fishing at the bridge. We ate a late, low key breakfast and Todd and I set off on a drive to the beach at Indian Rocks. We have been calling our families, consistently having difficulty getting through. We have stopped at a Starbucks in Tampa to spend a few minutes catching up on email. We plan to attend the RV park's Christmas dinner at 5pm. It is potluck style with turkey and ham provided, and everyones brings a dish to share, I am bringing stuffing and a cake. This park has been one of the friendliest and they seem to like to have fun, the boys find it amusing as they don't think 'old people' which we are in that category, actually have fun! They had carolling (beer in hand), a parade of sorts with their golf carts totally decked out, and everybody stops to chat, we are enjoying it!
I hope you all get to enjoy some time out from your busy schedule and relax with friends and family. We miss you all especially today! Take care!

Tabitha

Miami Beach, Florida Everglades, Fort Myers

Merry Christmas!

We stayed in the canpground in Fort Lauderdale and extra day as the weather improved and we really wanted to see Miami Beach during the day (we had visited and eaten dinner along the beach on Friday night). We went back to the beach on Saturday and it was a beautiful day, the beach was absolutely the best we have been to in terms of water and sand. We went out in the mellow waves and the bottom was beautiful sand and I did the stingray shuffle although not a ray or fish was seen near the shore. The tow took us out a way and we found ourselves with quite a swim back to shore. The water was warm and a gorgeous turquoise colour. It was a fantastic day and we stopped at the Starbucks located right at the beach and needless to say it was very busy and with only 3 people working, I saw how hard they were working, and appreciated their upbeat attitude!

We left Fort Lauderdale on Sunday and drove to highway 41 west through the Everglades. We stopped at the National Park at Shark Valley, and don't let the name fool you as there are not really any valleys anywhere in Florida! (When we drove through Miami, we noticed several large hills and came to realize they were landfills.) We rode our bicycles the 24 km loop around the park in 2 hours, only stopping to take pictures of the alligators, and to walk up the lookout tower. There are many airboat tours operating around the Everglades and those are the ones we think of when we see the glades on TV, however, the park offers tram tours of the same loop we cycled. We were glad we biked, one for exercise and two for the up close feeling we had with the great birds and of course the gators, of which we saw many, even one coming onto the road with a turtle in its jaw, still alive, awaiting its fate. We actually watched a foolish young man, go up and touch a gator, the gator did not move, luckily, as the rule of thumb is stay back 15 feet from wildlife.
Yesterday, we visited Sanibel Island near Fort Myers where we heard the sea shells were amazing, there is a museum, but we chose to simply go collecting. We were not disappointed! I have never seen so many shells washed up on the beach! We collected until we could not carry anymore. This was our first beach on the gulf coast and although it was chilly and not swimming weather, we enjoyed our time there, the boys did also.
Today, we are waiting on North Trail RV center to look at our slide out and see what the job entails as it has been giving us trouble moving out at times. We are then heading to Palmetto, just south of Tampa, where we will stay until the 28th, when we head to Orlando.
Take care for now!

Fort Lauderdale

This picture is Todd and I in Key West at the Southernmost Point in the Continental USA.

We drove to Fort Lauderdale on Wednesday and went to the beach yesterday morning and managed to spend a few hours in the sun before the rain started. Although it has been hotter than average, it has now rained more than usual, with floods in the streets and a tornado watch as I sit and write this. We planned to spend the day in Miami and here in Aventura, we have decided to turn around and go back, simply too rainy and horrible driving conditions.

Key West was a great day - lots of shops and walking, a beautiful day! We ended our day in the town at Mallory Square where many go to watch the famous Key West sunset. Of course we stopped by Margaritaville on Duval Street for a few frozen concoctions and a plate of volcano nachos...mmm! We stopped at the Cracked Conch Cafe in Marathon again for the boys to get a snack for the boys - conch fingers and key lime pie - I only had the pie as some of you know I am chicken about shellfish and won't try it. The boys found it tasted like calamari.

Almost time to head out and drive through the rain some more. Take care!

Tabitha

Key Largo, Florida

Hi there - we have been staying in Key Largo and have explored the keys a little, driving south to Marathon one day and Islamorada another, tomorrow we are off to Key West.

Today we spent a great afternoon out on a boat where we got to snorkel and the boys all fished of course. We met Egon when we first arrived and were choosing a site, he lives in PEI and was from Ontario prior to that. He offered to take us out on his boat and today turned out to be the best day to go since we have been here. Great gut, funny and has been coming to Florida since 1963 with his parents. The waters were a bit murky with all the wind, but the water was warm and that gorgeous turquoise colour I love! Despite multiple layers of sunsreen and warnings to the same effect from Egon, we all got a bit too much sun and have various degrees of redness in spots. Yesterday, we went to the Theatre of the Sea in Islamorada. It is mostly rescued marine life there and they do a fantastic job of showing them off! You start at the tropical fish and get a tour with the turtles, then onto the crocs and gators, then a fun parrot show, I did not know parrots have the intellectual capability of a toddler, and can even add and subtract numbers!

Next was a dolphin show, which was amazing! The picture you see is me receiving a juicy, and might I add fishy kiss from the star of the show! Not many were volunteering for the kisses, so I surprised myself and went up, once ion a lifetime, that's what we keep saying! We also enjoyed the sea lion and were surprised by their agility both in and out of the water. You could swim with the rays and dolphins for an additional fee, and we weren't dressed in our suits for that, although the dolphin swim would have been great!

Last night, we got a taste of Key Largo at Christmas with a parade of boats all decked out with lights, music and even some entertainment. Each year has a theme and this year was Hollywood. Very interesting to see how Christmas happens without cold and snow! A bit about the keys, you know where everything is by the mile marker, for example we are at MM101.5, and in Key West is MM0, so we are you guessed it just over 100 miles from Key West. Then you are either O for oceanside or south of the land on the Atlantic, or you are B for bayside, on the Florida Bay, which is the Gulf of Mexico side. We are on the Oceanside. It is very relaxed here, with flip flops the main shoes you need for most occasions. It is noticeably hotter than Melbourne Beach, and the temp was 91 the other day and 87 today, we run the AC most of the time! It is beautiful with the mangroves and iguanas and little geckos everywhere.

Take care

Tabitha

Florida City, FL

We drove to West Palm Beach from Melbourne Beach on Monday evening along the A1A and US Hwy 1 and camped overnight. We left this morning and drove along the Florida Turnpike south past Miami to Florida City, the last stop before the highway continues as US 1 to the Keys. We have a reservation for tomorrow at Key Largo Kampground, just 1 mile south of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where the snorkeling is supposed to be great! From there we will explore the Florida Keys.
It was hot today 31 degrees celcius with some humidity and we actually searched for some air conditioning, sorry to say! Now do not think for a minute we are complaining! If we think to complain, we remind ourselves about the chilly winter back home and how we need to appreciate the heat! Speaking of back home, Jordan sent us some pictures of the flooding in Duncan, on Beverly Street and Lakes Road, along what would be our way home on Davis Crescent. Now I can understand why it was on the national news, and see the impact. Thanks Jordan for the pictures!
After dinner, we all came to a Starbucks, to get online and enjoy a decaf americano (with pumpkin spice), dessert too! The boys have had alot of school focused time online, so they are enjoying some Facebook time, along with YouTube if I know Dillon at all!
Take care!
Tabitha

Space Coast, Florida (Melbourne Beach)

Hi! We have been in Melbourne Beach for a week and plan to check out next Monday and head south to the Miami area and Key Largo. We have heard the keys are disappointing, expensive which we knew, run down and not RV friendly. So the plan is to stay near Key Largo and drive the car only down the rest of the way to Key West. The things to do are exciting, we met a lady in St. Augustine who used to live in Key West and she told us the best snorkeling is in Looe State Park. You can do kayak tours as well which sounds like fun.
We have enjoyed staying in one spot for the past week! The nomadic lifestyle has been fun, and this stop is a nice rest for us. The RV resort where we are staying is almost perfect, 3 pools (only 1 heated until January when they heat all 3), lots of great washrooms and the best showers we have had yet, one side of the park borders the Indian River and the other, just a short walk across the A1A highway is the beach with a pool there also. We prefer the beach pool as you can hear the waves and pop down to the beach whenever you want to. There are 3 sets of tennis courts and we bought rackets, the boys have played several times (even though my racket is pink!) We also have a friendly cat named Jack who comes by for some petting and a little food when he feels like it. The boys go fishing every day, either surf or on the river off the long dock. The Brevard County library for school is a 5 minute drive from the park, and the bait & tackle shop is across from the library and the boys bike there when they need more bait.
The weather has been quite wonderful, sorry to say, high 70's to low 80's and less humidity than when we first arrived in Florida. However, tonight we have a chance of high winds, it will rain and even a tornado possibility although the TV looked as though it would mostly pass north of us. It is still over 80 degrees tonight, so plenty warm despite the clouds. The boys have had the warm, sunny days off from scholl and will work on the not so nice days, that seems to work out best.
The other part I did not mention about the almost perfect RV resort is that most of the residents are part time, elders, living in park model homes, nicely landscaped, and apart from a few younger souls, and only one family I have seen with toddlers, we are among the youngest, it is all relative! All the people we meet are very friendly and the boys also have met many nice gentlemen who coach them on the fishing and help identify the latest victim from the water. They catch all kinds of fish and of course release most except for a whiting Dillon kept today as apparently they are tasty. Even Damian catches fish and when you know how much he talks, you know the fish are plentiful! His specialty is puffer fish although he has caught a few stingrays. I actually hear so much fishing talk, it becomes almost unbearable! And now you get to hear about it too! They get up early (6:30am, which for Damian in particular is difficult) and fish, then fish after dinner if doing school, or basically all day when there is no school. They love it and it keeps them busy so it is really great for them, and they actually agree and like to do it together, although I am sure they would not admit it!
Take care - until next time! Tabitha

Cape Canaveral, Kennedy Space Center

Hi All - We have been in Melbourne Beach, Florida, south of Cape Canaveral. We spent Thursday at Kennedy Space Center and it was a great experience and most likely a highlight of my trip. We went back on Friday and watched the landing of the space shuttle Atlantis. The picture on the right is all I could catch on film, just the speck in the upper right hand corner, the TV footage was better and it was much better in person! All throughout our visits, they broadcast outside all the conversation with the shuttle. What a thrill nonetheless! We so wish we could witness a launch, but with only 5 more, it will not be likely.

We also visited the US Astronaut Hall of Fame and I felt brave enough to do the 4G F16 simulator, although I predicted no appetite for dinner, I still managed!

We hung out at the beach pool today and the boys went fishing on the river side (Indian River)of the park where we are staying. Tomorrow is Todd's birthday and enjoying the sun is on the menu along with a little cake later on.

Talk with y'all later!

St. Augustine & Daytona Beach, Florida

Hi All - we are now in Daytona, Florida after 3 days in St. Augustine, America's oldest city.
Todd and Dillon are at the Daytona Speedway, doing all the things you do at the 'Daytona 500 Experience', however there are no races until January. The beach here is amazing and you can drive on the beach, I just spent an hour walking, not driving along the waves and surf. Now I am here with Damian at the library. Happy Thanksgiving is all you here now and the grocery store I just stopped at seemed quite busy. Most stores including grocery shut down for the holiday. Of course my oven is not nearly large enough to roast a whole turkey, but we will have turkey and all the trimmings, just because.
Our days in St. Augustine were a big history lesson. We did drink from the famed Fountain of Youth that brought Juan Ponce de Leon to la Florida in 1513. He did live until he was 61, double the average age in Spain. We enjoyed our time riding the trolley and we did get locked up in the Old Jail, we were pardoned by Sherrif Charles Perry so we could leave. We had heard wonderful things about St. Augustine and it was all true, a very great place to visit. We actually stayed Saturday night to hear the live music and see the light up for Christmas, over 2 million lights.
We met a couple from Shelburne, NS yesterday, they live on Dock Street, and keep a fifth wheel in Ocala, FL and drive their truck with a camper on it to Florida every winter. They were heading to their time share in Daytona. The interesting thing was they lived in Ladysmith until several years ago, when they did a trip just like ours, decided to move back to Nova Scotia and do the snowbird thing. They have friends flying into Orlando on Friday. Ruth, The wife knew a girl I used to hang around with in high school, small world.
Take care everyone and Happy American Thanksgiving!

Jacksonville, Florida!

We entered Florida yesterday afternoon! We will be in the Sunshine State until after Nicole & Jordan leave Orlando International on January 7th. Jacksonville is a large city with beaches on the east side. Today is overcast, so much for the sunshine part today, so the boys will get some school work done. Damian and I are in a beautiful Starbucks on Nautica Drive in Northwest JAX.
They are very friendly and the baristas mom has been to Seattle and Victoria, so he knew where we are from, most people don't really know and if you say Vancouver Island, they think Vancouver, although most know that is where the Olympics will be. They also have both a Jacksonville City mug AND a Florida mug, city mugs have been hard to come by, so I will but both, although I think I need to give Nicole some things to take home as we are running out of room. (Nicole - bring an extra suitcase!)
We have to plan for Thanksgiving weekend here as RV parks get busier and we wing it all the time, never knowing from one day to the next where we will stay. Apparently, Black Friday, which I have ever only heard about on the news, is huge and I do not want to be out shopping that day, or driving, or anything. The partners at this store have to be here at 3:30am to open early, most stores open early with specials, deals and otherwise irresistable sales. I think Boxing Day shopping is the closest we might have.
Take care everyone!

Savannah, Georgia

This home is in Charleston, SC and has a wrought iron fence that has primitive barbs on the top to keep out any revolting slaves or unwanted people and is one of the few remaining like it. The house is still in the same family as it was during the civil war.

We enjoyed a horse drawn buggy tour of the city and learned alot about the history of Charleston, especially the high society and wealth that was here before the war. They re-enact the seccession from the union and are proud to have been the first out and the last back in the union. I definitely admire how they resented all the taxes the British imposed and fought against it, however, wealth on the backs of slaves is too much. There have been places in both Charleston and Savannah where slaves were traded, bought and sold.

Savannah - charming little city, easy to drive, the historic part was laid out in a grid pattern with large area of public parks, squares, 24 of them, of which 20 now remain. Built up on a bluff, it is still flat, but the front built on the Savannah River is low and drops down a hundred feet to River Street and is cobblestoned and has quaint shops and riverboat tours. They say Savannah is the most haunted city as it was built on burial grounds. It is Georgia's first city and was once the 4th largest in the USA. It is now a busy commercial container port, home to 120,000 people.

We ate at Pirate House, a real pirate inn and bar where the scallywags used to stay and cause trouble. It too is haunted and is also where Robert Louis Stevenson was insipred to write Treasure Island. We had a tour and saw how they 'shanghai'd' young lads into service with the merchant ships, as the pirates had a long line of applicants they rarely needed to kidnap someone into service. For the food network lovers, Paula Deen is from here and I went to her store near the city market, I tried to get the boys to eat there, but I was out-voted for the Pirate House. Todd and I did a wine tasting and the reds are so light and are served chilled, because the goal is to refresh and cool you off. Very different, yet good.

The island we are staying on, Tybee Island is east of Savannah by about 15 miles and has the nearest beaches. We are heading out today and should be in Florida either today or tomorrow as Jacksonville is only a few hours away.

Take care! (Ya'll!)

Ida...wind and rain!

This picture is of the boys at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. This is on the Outer Banks of NC.

We are now in Charleston, SC. We arrived last night and this afternoon we are heading the the historic downtown area. We left Myrtle Beach after staying an extra day, it was too stormy to travel. Rain, rain and more rain and wind. We got the tail end of Hurricane Ida, mostly rain and wind. They were giving flood warnings all along Virginia, the Outer Banks of NC and Myrtle Beach area. Despite being parked 20 seconds from the beach, there was a large sand dune separating us and we were in no danger of a flood. It rained so much that the roadways were literally a lake/ river. We stayed for Wednesday and then left Thursday afternoon, and drove to Charleston, only a few hours away. This has been the first time we were 'stuck' inside a bit and a good book is a suitable refuge for the storm. It was amazing to see the change in weather so quickly. It is still overcast here, but no rain and a bit of wind, cooler temperatures for sure.

The boys have spent some time catching up on their school work, Dillon has some tests coming up and Damian is just catching up! I feel like I am doing both grades 8 and 9 all over again! And of course in History class, which I thoroughly enjoy!

Take care everyone - I see the Christmas decorations out in the stores and am secretly very happy not to have to do all the shopping and participate in the busy-ness of the season. Take care not too over do it this season!

Tabitha

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Beach, sand, flip flops, sun (tan/burn), surf, waves, sandcastles, 78 degrees F, shells, sunscreen, Lakewood RV Park, Broadway on the Beach, fireworks, relax.

We are here! It is almost summer-like and not like fall/winter anymore! We have booked 4 nights at an oceanfront site and we are chillin by the beach! I know we are not quite in Florida, but this is very nice!It is not very busy here apparently compared to summer, which we like, but it is wonderful.

Since we left Virginia Beach, and on the way here, we stopped in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, and stopped at the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kill Devil Hills. This entire region is called the Outer Banks and when you look at the map, you can see why. Somebody came up with OBX as a short term and you see it on the license plates and bumper stickers. Lots of sandy beaches. We then drove south through Rodanthe and we stopped at mile 30 for Dillon to fish on the beach. Seems like everyone there is a fisherman/ angler and the front or back of their trucks have rod holders, as the rods for sea fishing are much too long to put inside. We caught the first of 2 ferries that night to Ocracoke Island (40 minutes and free) and camped at the next ferry which we caught to Cedar Island, NC the next morning. The next day was quite a bit of driving off the ferry by 10am after a 2 1/2 hour ride(and a bargain at $45 for a 41-61ft, we are 42 ft in length), all the way to where we are now. We leave here on wednesday and will head to Charleston and Hilton Head Island/ Beaufort.

We are in the full southern drawl, southern hospitality, everyone is quite friendly, southern food, the boys want to try some grits and all the fish you can buy is warm water, not cold water as I am used to cooking. The RV parks/ resorts are huge with Lakewood with about 1000 sites, and they have activities, cookouts, smores, security and even church! Todd is realizing just how much he says 'eh?', as we are more conscious of our own speech peculiarities, since we are so different now.

Take care everyone and I'll get some more pictures on here soon! For now here is one from NYC(Brooklyn Bridge at night).

Virginia Beach, VA

Hi everyone!

We have been in Virginia Beach, Virginia, for the last 4 days and hanging out while the boys catch up on some school work. They have been planted at the Great Neck Public Library, using the internet to get their work done. We went for almost a week with no internet and no school done except for 1 1/2 hours in New Haven. We are spending this afternoon at the beach, which is amazing and almost 3 miles long! It is a resort oceanfront area with Atlantic Avenue lined with hotels, restaurants, and souvenier shops. I would definitely love to come here in the summer, apparently most tourists are from Washington and NYC. I got a haircut at a trendy shop on 31st which I like very much, although I feel like I have cheated on my beloved Christina, who has done my hair for so long. The other cool thing here in the Chesapeake Bay Bridge/Tunnel.
It is 17 1/2 miles long, has 2 tunnels a mile long each, with a manmade island at each entrance and exit underwater, totalling 4. The bridge was built in 1964 and replaced a 2 hour ferry ride, it allows the ships to pass (Norfolk has a large naval base and air force base). Now that is what we could use on the island! Better than just a bridge! Oh and that reminds me, I know habituation takes at least 21 days, so if you live by a train, say after 3 weeks, it should not bother you so much, well here, the roar of the F18 fighter jets is persistent and pervasive. I don't think I could ever get used to it! it is louder than thunder and more frequent, they fly all the time it would seem!

Since New Haven...so much Boston, New York City and Washington, DC!!!

Yes - we have seen and done so much in the last week or so!

Boston tour of the city, Plymouth, where the Mayflower landed, New York City where we visited the American Museum of Natural History, Central Park, Battery Park, Ground Zero, Broadway, saw the Empire State building , the Chrysler building, hung out at Times Square during the Yankees game, ate in Chinatown, and walked a long way! We took the water taxi the first day and the subway the next day. We were in an RV park in Liberty Harbor, so the New Jersaysubway took us to 33rd St, and we transfered to the NY subway up to 81st. Cool to think you are underneath the Hudson River! The water taxi was great and went right from the RV park to Wall Street. We walked so much that all of us had very sore feet!

We spent one day at Ellis Island and Liberty Island, touring the Statue of Liberty, whose actual name as I learned is 'Liberty Enlightening the World' We were the only ones waiting at the Ranger point, so we got a private tour, just the 4 of us! I learned a lot about the statue and I have learned that Americans love their monuments, especially those depicting liberty and freedom.

Yesterday we toured Washington, and saw all the must see spots - the White House, (including a mototcade which kept us on the curb and traffic stopped for over 15 minutes. The motorcade was returning to the White House and was heavily armed and consisted of at least 10 vehicles, the caboose being an ambulance. We took video, and I may have to figure out how to post it.)

the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Reflecting Pool, Korean War Memorial, Smithsonian, Capitol Hill, The Potomac River, I am sure I have missed things. Very cool to be all the places you have only seen on TV and in the news!

Right now, we are in Virginia Beach, sitting in a Starbucks, feels a bit like work days, but then again not quite! I have to get a few groceries, then cook dinner. Damian is doing school and Dillon is in the RV with Todd doing the same. Todd is watching a football game as there are quite a few channels where we are now.

Take care everyone and Happy Birthday to my Mom!

New Haven, Connecticut

Hi Everyone - it has been sometime since I have had internet access so here is a quick update!

From Saint John, we went to Augusta, Maine where we camped overnight, then onto Portland, Maine the next day where we walked Old Port. Quaint city, we saw where the fast cat ferry from Yarmouth docks.
From Portland, onto outside of Boston where we stayed at a KOA Cape Cod, about an hour away. We did a trolley tour of Boston on Sunday and then Plymouth, where the Pilgrims landed.
I will update more later, as Damian needs the laptop.
We are now in Connecticut, New Haven and off to New York tomorrow.
Bye for now.

Nova Scotia...South Shore - Lighthouse Route

Hi - no we did not stop in Peggy's Cove to see the most photographed lighthouse in the world. Although I would highly recommend this tourist favourite, the boys have already seen it and I have been there many times, so we skipped it this time.

Thursday - Out of Yarmouth we headed toward Barrington and took the scenic route through Pubnico (Acadian area, French)and Wood's Harbour, where Colin is from. It is a series of villages along the water and commercial fishing plants. Seems quite prosperous. We continued to Barrington Passage where we stopped for lunch. I reminded Todd that years ago he went to the McDonald's across the street where he had a lobster roll, as local McDonald's made them and most locals do not eat them.

From there we stopped in Clyde River, where the house my parents lived in and before that my great grandparents lived in it, is. It is empty now after it was renovated into a bed & breakfast after my parents sold it and built a new house on the river. It was a hotel in the 1920's & 30's and when we were back at my parents we took a look through the guest registry. I still remember names and dates inside the closet door of my room. My window also looked out over the church next door and the old graveyard, perfect for Hallowe'en, but a little spooky when the fog rolled out! Little has changed in Clyde River, from there we took the Port Clyde road as I wanted to see Roseway beach, which is gorgeous (&cold).

We headed into Shelburne where you know you are old when the high school you graduated from has been torn down and a new one built in a different location. I love the quaint waterfront. I worked at the tourist bureau for two summers after high school - and the highlight was when Princess Diana and Prince Charles came to town for the 200th anniversary if Shelburne. I was about 3ft from her and I remember how beautiful she was. We learned they just finished shooting Moby Dick in town.

We moved onto Lunenburg in search of the Bluenose II which the highway sign said was in port. We ate dinner right on the water and I think I has the best fresh haddock I have ever had. I but haddock in BC, but it is frozen and not the same. My favourite cold water ocean fish, done in an ale batter, mmm!

Drove through Mahone Bay, it was dark by then and we got back to my parents about 9:30pm.

There are lots of waterfront homes for sale and of course we stopped and checked out a few of them, mostly cottage material or tear downs. Great for retirement, someday, right now we have enough projects on the go! Friday we went to Pier 21, in Halifax, where over 1 million immigrants came to this great country, and many soldiers left to fight in the wars. You get a passport and see first hand what it was like to arrive in a new country - interestingly most were told not to stay in Nova Scotia as there was nothing but rocks, most moved on to the Prairies.

Nova Scotia...not much has changed

Last time I updated I stopped at Sunday. Here is my attempt to catch up! (In the picture - left to right - Lexie, Damian, Dillon, Alexander, Spencer, and Jadyn. Only grandchild for my parents missing is Nicole, the oldest.)

Picture on the left is me with my grandmother, Betty and her husband Arthur.

Monday - We went to Sabrina and Colin's house and my brother Chris, wife Heidi and sons Spencer and Alexander came over as well. Colin had the BBQ going and we ate and had a great time. The cousins all spent time outside playing in the yard. It is amazing how much the boys have grown since we saw them two years ago.

Sabrina made a pumpkin cheesecake - very good! The boys and men all were in the backyard shooting the gun - a pellet rifle to be precise. They were shooting targets - cans, pop cans, styrofoamcups, sticks, the air in Dillon's case. Sabrina had to go out there and show them how to do it! Kidding aside, it was cold out and I spent more time in the house.

Tuesday - Not my best day, did not feel well. We did get to see Todd's family which was neat. The Forest side, his Dad Archie's brothers, Bernie, Norman and wife Shirley, Archie's sister Carmen, Norman's son (Todd's cousin) Steven and his son Matthew. We tried to see Georgie after and he was not home. Despite living in Halifax years ago, this was the first time I met all these relatives. I did get to meet Todd's grandmother several times - Nanny Forest, when we were in Halifax together. We had some birthday cake after dinner and I felt much better, probably a case of a bad allergic reaction to having another birthday. I am over it now. I booked Nicole and Jordan's flights to Orlando, they will arrive on the 29 December and leave on the 7 January, 2010. Should be fun and good to see them again.

Wednesday - We left on Wednesday morning for the Annapolis Valley. First stop was Wolfville, where we called Nicole's friend Christina, I left a message and while we were at Hennigar's market a few minutes away, she called back and we went back to Crowell Tower and had a quick visit with Christina at Acadia University. It is hard to believe it has been 25 years since I was there. Not much has changed. In fact, as we toured the Evangeline Trail through the valley and around the Lighthouse Route along the South Shore, the theme was definitely that little has changed over the years. From Wolfville, it was after 1pm and we were discussing lunch, then we were discussing donairs and how they are not the same in BC, so it was decided we would search for a place to introduce the boys to the meaty donair. Did not take long to find one in New Minas and the boys were delighted with the size and taste of the east coast donair. The sauce - Todd says that is the difference. (I do not like donairs and did not eat one - I also dislike the smell and endured the lingering odour for the rest of the day!) We saw the cliffs on the Bay of Fundy from Margaretville, poked through Greenwood, and the farm Todd grew up on, then we continued onto Yarmouth. We had dinner at the lighthouse at Cape Forchu, then drove back into Yarmouth and visited my grandmother. We had a wonderful visit with my Gram and Arthur, saw their new place and took some pictures. It has been so great to see so many of our family members!

Thursday and our drive along where I grew up...

Nova Scotia...

Hello! We have been busy since we arrived,let me take you back over the last few days. I still need to upload pictures and let you see what has been happening.

Friday - school for the boys and errands for us. Todd did some work on the tow dolly and wanted to change the oil on the motorhome, although my job of purchasing the filter did not result in one, he had to go to an autoparts store to get it. I went with Mom for groceries, wine, and we stopped at Starbucks for a mug for Dad, although there were none to be found. I knew (I should have bought one when I saw it in Cranbrook.) I did laundry - lots of it as the last time was Niagara Falls. So far no laundromats, either family homes or RV parks, which makes internet and laundry two of our requirements for a good park.
Saturday - it is giving rain and the men are planning to go fishing, so my sister, Mom, and I plan a girls day. Damian wants to go with us and I tell him no boys allowed, go with your father and learn to be a man. Well it is pouring rain and the boys go fishing and we all say we give them until noon and they'll be back. Sabrina calls Colin around then and no they are fishing and having fun and Dillon has caught alot of fish so they are staying and the rain has let up anyway. They had rubber boots and garbage bags for the rain and layers to keep warm. So for the girls, we went to the Mic Mac Mall, shopping, which was really window shopping, but the only way to walk in the dryness.
Sunday - Todd and the boys and I went to Elmsdale Baptist Church.
Very small congregation, everyone knew we were from out of town, very friendly and traditional. By the time we got back, dinner was almost ready. Turkey dinner I did not have to cook, somehow it tastes even better! We feasted with my parents, sister, Sabrina and Colin, their daughters, Jadyn(3) and Lexie(1). The meal finished with pumpkin cheescake and coffee, mmmm..!
Monday - check back later for Monday to Thursday!

Nova Scotia

We are in Nova Scotia!

Let me retrace our steps since I last updated the blog.
Ottawa, day 2 was a tour of the Parliament buildings in the morning, followed by lunch at Rideau Centre. We then took the boys to the Ottawa Library for some school and their virtual classes (v class). Todd and I left them and walked to the War Museum, stopped by the Supreme Court of Canada and went through security to check out the lobby - that is as far as they let you go. The War Museum was amazing and well presented with interactive displays and video - a must see when you are in Ottawa and it is complimentary admission for serving ir retired members of the military. After our long walk back we headed back to the motorhome and off to Montreal.

We stayed outside of Montreal that night and made the mistake of deciding to drive through the city the next morning - wall to wall traffic and narrow lanes do not make for a relaxing drive in a large vehicle. Todd was driving and we were glad to get out of there! We did not spend time visiting Montreal, instead opting to see Quebec City. So we drove to Levis and took the ferry over to the old city, left the car there and walked around. It was great to see the Chateau Frontenac, all the buildings, got to practice some francais, un peu, and take alot of pictures.
We then headed for Riviere du Loup along the St. Lawrence River and when we could not find an open campground, we kept driving, all the way to Edmunston, Nouveau Brunswick. We forgot about the time zone change from Eastern to Atlantic and when we stopped for dinner at 9pm it was really 10pm, so the next morning we were slow to get up. Todd went into Wal Mart to get some water and when he was in there someone came up to him and asked him, en francais, if he was a customer, Todd replied he was and the man told him the store was closed, again, Todd had checked and closing time was 10pm and the doors were open so he did not think anything of it. Of course, he apologized and left.
Saint John - the next day we went to Saint John, New Brunswick, always spelled S-A-I-N-T, not abbreviated as I remember learning in school, and not like Newfoundland's St. John's, always different. we stopped briefly on the way in Welsford, a small village where Todd has family. (Todd's Mom, Jean grew up in Saint John, NB, eldest of 17, and many have left, and many have stayed.) We did not get to see Eric and Georgette, and we continued on to Reggie Holden's in Saint John. We went out for dinner and stayed with Reggie overnight. The boys got to sleep in separate accomodations from each other and look forward to any opprtunity to do so! the next morning, Dorothy and husband Rod came over for a visit. I had not met any of Jean's family so my question is which order of birth they fit into, Reggie was #7 and Dorothy #9, and she says their Mom left her in charge. It was great to meet them and they were off to Halifax for their son Matt's wedding.
We left there on Thursday, yesterday, and had made the decision to go to PEI and the Magdalen Islands after Thanksgiving. If we went before we would have to miss Thanksgiving with family. So we are here and when I called Mom from Amherst, she was surprised, and it is true we have not really arrived early anywhere.
So today is laundry and grocery shopping for me, Todd is changing the oil in the motorhome, and doing maintenance on the tow dolly, while the boys get some school work done. Dad is at work and feeling much better. Mom is baking the pumpkin pies for Thanksgiving dinner. I have signed up to make cranberry sauce, dinner tonight, and whatever else needs to get done. I need to get some exercise for 'turkey weekend' and it is not raining, so I have no excuse!

Have a fantastic Thanksgiving everyone and enjoy the blissful state of triptophan after filling up on your turkey!

Remember to give thanks for the abundance of blessings in our lives from the Giver of all good and perfect gifts.
I will add some pictures later today - cheers!

Toronto & Ottawa

Toronto was a short visit on Friday, mostly to see the Hockey Hall of Fame. I did not go as I had seen it a few years ago at a Starbucks function - the entire place was ours and I failed miserably stopping Wayne's and Mark's shots! Rush hour traffic was fun and reinforced the idea that a large city is not for me unless I do not have to drive. We have decided we could live in Ontario. Southern Ontario to be exact and that of course is said in the fall after the humidity has subsided. Worthwhile stop for the boys and the boys had better luck getting shots past the virtual goalie.

We spent today with Todd's friends, breakfast with Jeff Martin, his wife Elaine and 14 year old son Dexter. Todd had last seen Jeff 7 years ago while on a course in the military, I had never met them, along with our boys. Jeff and Todd were friends since grade 3 at Greenwood Elementary in Nova Scotia, friends until grade 6 when Jeff moved to California, then Todd moved on to Winnipeg and Ottawa. Then when they were 18, they met up again in Ottawa and started a band. Todd has always reminisced about his band days and it was interesting to meet Jeff. They actually had some gigs in both Hull and Ottawa, including the Junior Ranks Mess. To hear Todd tell it, they were pretty good, and a lot of fun. Their name was 'Headache' which I am sure was true to their music style - punk rock. Jeff plays and sings in a band to this day and was jamming Saturday night. He gave us a CD and we listened to it on the way to the Savoys. There is also a vinyl record that will have to wait until we get home. I so love hearing about Todd's younger years! And every year there are more and more of them!

Then we drove to The Savoy's and we spent the day with Bonnie and Mac, son Richard, Todd's longtime friend, daughter Dana, husband Lynden and their daughters (Alisa and Kate - sorry if the spelling is wrong) who live next door. Kevin and Karen, their youngest son and their two boys (Byron and Nathan). We stayed for friendship, good times, food, wine, laughter, stories and catching up on where we are now. Todd last saw the Savoy's in 2002, same as Jeff, while on course for work. Bonnie and Mac are good friends with Jean and Archie, Todd' parents, first backyard friends at a posting in Trenton in the early 60's. Bonnie says she and Jean were both expecting babies when youngest Monica, Todd's sister was born and Kevin, so they are apparently close in age. We went to Kevin's house to check out the music studio. Wow - I hope Todd doesn't get any ideas for another project. They played a bit of guitar, and I learned that Kevin was inspired to learn guitar when he saw Todd and Linda playing and that Linda taught him alot about the guitar. He is also in a band and is an excellent guitar player.
Hockey was discussed, we stayed away from politics, and of course how much better the Canucks are than the Leafs...well I must have been dreaming...
Thanks for opening your home and your hearts to some 'old' friends.

Niagara Falls, ON

Hi there - Niagara Falls was a great place to stop and we enjoyed the falls the first day we were there. we took lots of pictures and we bought a few souveniers. We spent the next day touring wineries while the boys did school work. Not so much fun for them, but I enjoyed the day immenselym one of the best so far! We toured Jackson Triggs first, one of the few to allow you to view the actual process of winemaking. Of course a tasting at the end to conclude our visit, and the tastings in the Niagara region typically conclude with icewine. Let's discuss icewine, it is my new favourite dessert and we bought several bottles that day! I also actually learned the proper steps to taste wine, I thought of Dan, my peer at Starbucks, who once gave me a quick lesson about wine, needless to say, I know what to do when you order a bottle of wine at a restaurant and the waiter lingers while you are supposed to give your approval for the bottle they have uncorked. The other winery we toured was Inniskillen, also a great experience and very informative.
Today we are in Ottawa and hopefully about to visit some of Todd's old friends. I will add pictures once we have a better connection, with the stick, I cannot upload pictures.

A few more things...and Fergus and Brantford, ON

Hi there - I forgot to mention a couple of things as I was telling the car story.

Dillon went fishing off the pier on the boardwalk in Sault Ste. Marie. He caught a salmon about 3-4 pounds and he cut it up into steaks and we dined on them that evening. He was quite proud of the fact he had managed to land this fish. He is still talking about the fish and now every stream, river or lake we pass is a missed opportunity to fish and feel the exhilaration of the catch!

He did fish at South Baymouth as we waited for the ferry, with no success in terms of bites, but as I am learning the fun is in the waiting.

I walked to the lock on the St. Marys River, where there is a National Historic site. I walked all the way to underneath the International Bridge that crosses into the US. I have seen the locks at Welland, but am intrigued by the history of how the lock came about. The Chicora Incident was the reason that a lock was built on the Canadian side of the river. I later took Todd back as I knew he would like the technical aspect of how it all works.

We went to Fergus, then Cambridge Sunday night, where it rained a torrential downpour and thunder and lightning woke us up. In Fergus, I called Jim and Grace, then went to their house for a visit. We enjoyed their hospitality, toured the grounds of their property, met their 3 rottweilers, a cat, then went to a small, homey restaurant in Belwood for dinner. The type of place everyone knows you and you go to feel that sense of community. It was quite enjoyable with stories of people and placed and events in the recent and distant past, plans for the future.
I learned about Jim's book, his singing, and public speaking. We were all happy we had gotten together.

In Cambridge, on Monday, we got some school done, but had internet challenges, so got back at it on Tuesday. We aslo got the car fixed - and it was free! A new ECM or computer as I understand it, all covered under warranty.

From Cambridge, we drove to Brantford - home town of Wayne Gretzky and the place Alexander Graham Bell came to think, also long time home of my grandmother, Betty Pritchard.
We visited in the afternoon, went to dinner at Red Lobster, had coffee at Starbucks afterwards.
We went to her place again after coffee and Todd completed a few handyman tasks. We took some pictures and watched 'So you think you can dance'. We have not watched TV since we left so the boys were glued. My grandmother is 84, active, smart, and involved with her friends, family, church. I felt lucky to fit into her busy schedule, although she is the type who would always fit you in. She never missed a birthday, or Christmas all the years we were growing up - her way of letting us know she was thinking about us, even though we were far away. When I saw her 5 years ago, in Toronto for a meeting, it had been over 25 years since we had seen each other. She still had an impact on my life through her cards and letters. Great visit and I smile as I write these words.
Last night we drove to Niagara Falls, just over an hour away. Today the falls!

Ferry to Tobermory, ON

Hi there! We left the Soo this morning after an interesting evening. We took the boys to the local pool for a swim and Todd dropped them off, a short car ride 3km away. He left at 9pm to pick them up and took the TomTom with him. Next thing I know, the boys are back, knocking to get in and I ask where Todd is and when they tell me he is paying for the cab, I am quite surprised.

Turns out he only made it a short way to the pool, the car died after the engine light came on, and he managed to get it into a parking lot. He went into a nearby hotel and had the lady call him a taxi, she also called the police to let them know not to tow our car as it would be there overnight. He picked the boys up in the cab and brought them back. He got up quite early and went back, with TomTom (for the shortest route back) and got the car started, he loaded it on the tow dolly and we left fairly quickly. Needless to say, we will take it to a Toyota dealership, but wait until Monday. We had driven the car a few times that day, getting groceries and driving the city. Never did it foreshadow it's engine problem. Let's hope it is simple and not too expensive, we have only driven the car about 600km, mostly in Alberta, and it always worked fine for me, always had it's proper tune ups.

Why the picture of the dogs, Bailey (Nicole & Jordans) and Boomer, ours? Because I miss them so much and I have this picture as the wallpaper on the laptop, and I have no other new pictures at this moment! They are just sitting there waiting for a treat because I made them pose for the picture, so cute!

We drove to South Baymouth on Manatoulin Island, and we are catching a ferry to Tobermory. This means we will miss Sudbury and the big nickel, but less driving which is nice. We will be in Southern Ontario next week. My grinder broke and we did not have coffee this morning as is our ritual, and as I drove, I pondered why I could be so tired, I got enough sleep, despite getting up early, right no coffee. The real sin I must confess, is we went to a small cafe at the ferry and bought a coffee, I managed to consume 2/3 of the cup made drinkable with sweetener and cream. I am a coffee snob and proud of it - it just occurred to me I have some Via packets, now how could I have not thought of that and avoided committing the sinful act! Coffee helps you think better.

Take care!

Sault Ste. Marie, ON

Hi there! We are in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario and by now you have figured out we changed our minds and went north through Canada, after all, what is a trip across Canada if you are mostly in the US?
After leaving Thunder Bay, we spent a night in Marathon, ON. We could not find a campground so we camped at a small park overlooking the lake, pretty but a lot of black flies, I didn't even get out. We ate a late dinner, slept, got up and left for our next destination. We stopped at Pancake Bay Provincial Park and camped last night. Very beautiful spot right on Lake Superior and a wonderful beach close to our site. Most campgrounds are almost closed for the season and near empty except for some retired folks.
Tonight we are in Sault Ste. Marie or the 'Soo' as locals call it. I took a nics long walk up to the locks, under the International Bridge to the US. The sunset is very beautiful and I took several pictures when I got back. Dillon went fishing in both Pancake Bay and here on the St Mary's River, no fish yet, but he is having fun which is what counts!

Thunder Bay, Ontario

Hi Everyone! It has been a few days since I was able to update you with our whereabouts! Despite my 'rocket stick' with Rogers, Canada's national network, there is no phone service in Northern Ontario, hence no internet, unless you find a Starbucks. which I have. I am in a licensed location in Thunder Bay in a Chapters store. There is a company operated store a Drive Thru just a few blocks away, friendly and they just exported 4 partners to BC, she wasn't sure whether they went to Vancouver or the island. We are now sufficiently far away that people do not know their geography, and like I once was, cannot tell the difference between Vancouver and Vancouver Island.

From Brandon, we went to Winnipeg, where the highlight was the Assiniboine Park and the Zoo. Todd showed us on Corydon Avenue where he once lived. I thought of Zoe, a co-worker of mine, as she lived in Winnipeg for a few years.

After several days in the Peg, we moved onto Dryden, Ontario, passing through Kenora, a quaint little town to the east, a recreational spot with lots of speedboats and water sports. The picture is there, where we stopped and I made lunch. In Dryden we camped overnight at an RV park which was basically empty except for us. We had the place to ourselves and watched the stars after we had built a roaring fire and made s'mores. By we, I mean Todd and the boys - I like being a girl when it comes time for things like fire building and black water tank dumping, call me old fashioned, I'm OK with it!

from Dryden, we drove to Thunder Bay, and as we drove in there was a small park, Hillcrest, from which the entire city can be seen and is complimented by a sweeping view of Lake Superior. This morning, I jogged back up that hill and had a longer look, well worth it.

One thing I enjoy more know with my newfound free time is reading, and I have finished Wally Lamb's She's Come Undone, and a few days ago finished John Grisham's, The Testament. I started 'The Shack" by Wm Paul Young. Todd is reading as well, something he rarely does and just finished Billy Bud by Herman Melville. Thanks Chrys and Sharon for all the great books you let us have! Well, take care everyone - have a great day!

Brandon, MB

We have arrived in Brandon, Manitoba and yet another time zone. It is 7:30 pm and dinner is not yet ready. Great to see trees again, a few hills and not so great with all the mosquitoes when we first arrived. Thank goodness Monica gave us some excellent bug repellant, it came in handy. Keeps the boys away too, kidding!

Now time for dinner, showers and more homework!

Goodnight!

Edmonton, AB

We left Edmonton yesterday after arriving on Wednesday, September 9th from Lethbridge.
We enjoyed 5 days of visiting with Todd's parents Jean and Archie, and his brother Chrys, his wife Sharon and their son Zach, and daughter Carly.
We were busy with school, going to West Edmonton Mall - the boys had never been, so I reluctantly took them, although I enjoyed the fact Sharon went with us so I had someone to hang with. We also took the tour at Historic Fort Edmonton, a place I never knew about, and it was recommended. Very cool fort, not for war, but for commerce. It makes me realize how much the Hudsons Bay Company built this great country of ours. They had all the different furs in the trading area, fireplaces in every room, the stories of how the trappers had to carry 180 pounds all the way to the Bay was amazing. To make more money some carried up to 5 90 lb packs of furs weighing 450 lbs. These men were tough.
It was peaceful and quiet in New Sarepta, with only the coyotes howling during the night, reminding us where we were. As we sat around the fire at night, the dogs would bark everytime they thought they heard coyotes. I personally did not wish to run into one.
We visited Shelley, Todd's sister and her husband Dennis on Saturday. They live in Westerose, south and west of Edmonton. they also have a large property, horses, mules, and jacks - not sure if I am describing it correctly! Dillon drove the tractor, we walked out to the horses in our flip flops (not too smart), we ate burgers grilled over the fire pit, and had a great time. Zach created a new nickname for me there, not a compliment, so I got him back the next day when I told his mother how he ate whip cream out of the dispenser! Zach you are very funny and alot like your Dad, probably quicker with the comebacks if I must say!
Monday evening saw us say our goodbyes to Chrys and Sharon as they had to work on Tuesday. Tuesday saw us say bye to Todd's Mom and Dad, pack up and head off south east toward Saskatoon, SK. We actually made great time and arrived in Regina last night around 9 pm.
We got up early this morning and here we are (Damian and I) at Starbucks in Chapters, having an Americano and checking email and writing my blog updates! I feel a bit like I'm at work, on my laptop, I still connect with partners, check out the store in terms of presentation and beverage quality, I only ask questions however when I see something I think is out of place. Like yesterday in Lloydminster, they put lids on the drinks. I asked why, and she didn't quite know and said she thought they were the only district doing it. Test, I thought or just a tactic to keep customers happy, not sure? I love being a customer for now!
Well I must be off and help the boys with their school work. Take care!

We have just spent our last day in Lethbridge with Todd's sister Monica and her two daughters.
Abbey went to her first day of pre-school, which was quite successful - she comforted several of her friends who were crying, her favourite part of the day was playing dolls. I wish I remembered when life was so simple!
My boys started their school as well and I swear I spent a long time in school today as well! Dillon got started on math and science, his print subjects and Damian started his online courses by planning out some of his year. There is no internet at Monica's so I took Damian to Starbucks for a drink and some school work. After listening to his complaints, I explained that most kids, and even some adults would love to be able to go to work/ school where he was.
Overall, I think it went quite well, however, if you asked the boys, I think they would say they hate it. They did enjoy PE class as Todd took them for a 45 minute bike ride to Nicholas Sheron Park in Lethbridge. Monica and I took the girls for a walk while they were gone.
Other than all of that, I have been talking with my family back in Nova Scotia as my Dad is in the Halifax Infirmary hospital. He wasn't feeling well on Sunday morning, so he asked Mom to take him to the medical centre and they transfered him right away. He felt as if a small person was standing on his chest. He had double bypass heart surgery in 2001, so heart troubles were what was suspected. The update tonight is he has had a dye test and one of the valves they repaired is not functioning properly, tomorrow they will decide whether to do the ballon and blow out the valve or do heart surgery. The tech seems to favour the former. He will stay in hospital until something happens, and I am also concerned about my Mom, eating and getting her rest. I pray Dad's recovery goes better than the doctors expect.

Tomorrow, we are off to Edmonton to visit Todd's parents and brother and sister in law.

Lethbridge, Alberta

We arrived here in Lethbridge, AB yesterday afternoon. We are staying with Todd's younger sister Monica and her two girls Abbey (3 1/2) and Lily (3 months). They are absolutely adorable!

Let me first fill you in on the last few days in Fernie. I can't believe I am saying this, but camping was great and it made us think we could consider setting up somewhere for the summer and enjoy the outdoors every weekend and vacation...even on our 'dream' vacation, we are still dreaming!

We crossed the US border on Lake Koocanusa, took some pictures and enjoyed a fantastic boat ride with Lynn and Larry. Evenings by the campfires were my favourite part. Dillon got up early to fish in the lake. Damian chopped firewood for Sugar, Lynn's Dad, my husband went for a few jumps off the rickety diving board into the lake, once after a few too many. Larry took the boys tubing, which they enjoyed immensely. We chatted alot about the boys, their history, and we loved filling in some gaps and getting to know the Lento family better. We certainly felt like part of the family!

Thank you!

Back to Monica's house and although we won't see Richard her husband this time, we are glad to meet Lily for the first time and see how much Abbey has grown since we last saw her.

The boys enjoy playing with her and Damian read her bedtime stories tonight. The wind was very strong so Todd and the boys flew a kite in the park that backs onto Monica's property with Abbey.

Last night, the boys went out on their bikes with only my cell phone number, no map, no address, no sense of direction, and of course got lost. When they did not show up by the specified time, we got a call and Todd and Monica had to go and get them. My cell of course is long distance so they found a stranger who allowed them to use his phone. Today, Dillon went out to a nearby lake, map, phone number and address in hand, and returned on his own this time. What can I say, we learn quickly!

We used the gps really for the first time in terms of navigating around a city to which we have never been. We found all the places we needed to find and made it back to Monica's on time for dinner. We saw a bit of Lethbridge, went to church with Monica this morning, Evangelical Free Church, or E Free as they refer to themselves. Todd and the boys met the youth pastor, Jeremy, and learned a bit about the city from him. Tomorrow is time out just the girls and the boys are going fishing...then school starts Tuesday...

Fernie, BC

It has been several days into our 182 day journey and this is my first opportunity to get online.

We are in Fernie, BC, arriving September 2nd in the afternoon. We stayed with the Lento Family, our boys foster family. The Lentos have known our boys since they were 2 and 3 years of age, so we enjoy listening to the stories and the boys like remembering their early childhood memories. The Lentos are a warm, welcoming family, we had a BBQ last night and chatted through the evening. Today we are going to the lake with them, out on their boat. We are just deciding whether to take the motorhome, car or neither and go with the Lentos, apparently the dirt road to the lake is quite steep. It has been decided - we are taking the car and packing a cooler for food.

I am being pressured to get off the computer and get going. Tonight I plan to update what has happened over the last few days.

Getting Ready

Well, four days to go and my husband is at his last day of work until May of next year!

Let's see where I was when I first created this blog. I had no dress for the wedding, was finishing my last week of work and was getting ready to have 11 people stay at my house for the wedding. Well, I found a great dress, bride approved, hosted many people at my home, realizing that it is not how perfect your house is, but the hospitality you provide and how I can make people feel welcome and at home. Of course, I finished work, hectic as it was, I still wish I could follow up on how everything is going, and I of course visit my two home stores in Duncan, where I see all the wonderful partners and customers I have known all these years. The only difference is I can read a book instead of working. Just yesterday, I had to wait several hours for my car to be wired for towing, so I walked to Starbucks and read for an hour and a half!
I also have a newfound sense of being relaxed, which for those of you who know me, I am not a fast paced person, yet live and work in a fast paced environment, so when 'behind', I struggle to keep calm. I had to renew my car insurance early yesterday and had pre-ordered the sticker through my broker months ago, and when they could not find the sticker and realized it had been sent to the wrong address, and standing there knowing I had to have this done before we leave, and knowing I had of course pre-planned every detail to have things go smoothly, I found it realitively easy to let go and not panic. The agent kept apologizing for the delay and I said not to worry, I had all the time in the world! And, I also was not multi-tasking by checking my email while I waited!
I think I could get used to this!
The wedding went very well and I have included a picture of Nicole and Jordan. They are on their honeymoon in California, due back on Sunday. I only get to be mother of the bride once and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
The boys are spending their time seeing friends before they leave and getting their clothes and room in order. Every other spare minute, you will find them either on the computer, watching TV, or playing Wii. (Sometimes I hide the remotes just for fun!) I have to pick up their school books tomorrow in Victoria, and school starts next week!
Damian is taking Spanish this year and I am looking forward to learning a bit myself! Both boys think they can misbehave these next few days as they have stated there is no discipline or chores to assign or friends/ activities we can keep them from, which would be our normal course for consequences. This should be fun!
Well I need to get back to my list of 'to do's'.

Last week of work coming up and so much to do...

I have 6 days of work left until my career coffee break and I am very busy!
I also have house guests coming to stay with me for my daughter's wedding, my parents, my sister with her husband and two little girls, my daughter's grandmother and...have I missed anyone? Not to mention that the house we moved into over a year ago to downsize and renovate, is now more like supersized with an entire story added (not finished), and a main floor total makeover (not totally finished - needs painting and trim), and of course the basement will wait until we return for the full re-do. It is all still exciting and soon the wedding will be over and we will say our goodbyes and head off for 6 months...once I get the motorhome ready...and the homeschooling figured out...and oh right I still need a dress to wear for the wedding!

At least the blog is up and running!