Deep South Tour 2012

Follow us on our road trip in our smart car ,Trudi, here.http://smartcar.blogspot.com/

Headwaters British Car Club Meeting

We were welcomed warmly at a meeting of the HBCC at the home of Alan and Marlies near Tottenham. The club had been on a winery tour and were relaxing poolside when we arrived. Much of the conversation revolved around British cars (MG, Triumph, Morgan, Jaguar, Lotus, Allard).

Three Days, Three Friends

Catching up with friends this week before we head off on our first trip.  

Day 1: Wednesday had lunch with BG at Artisano Cafe on Islington Ave, a favourite haunt. Had their yummy beet, walnut and goat cheese salad. BG and I met at York University in 1991. I enjoyed our chat, especially hearing about her kids' recent successes.

Day 2: Thursday went to see "The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" with JC at the Kingsway Theatre. Fabulous film filled with vibrant scenes of India and superbly acted by a stellar British cast. Nice to see Bill Nighy NOT play the villain. JC and I met in 1989 - our sons were in junior kindergarten together. She's looking forward to a trip to visit her daughter who's studying in Switzerland. 

Day 3: Friday had a sumptuous dinner on BJL's new deck. Excellent food, conversation and ambience. Met BJL in 1988 when our eldest kids were in grade one together. Wondering which of their sons will marry first - it's going to be a close call.

Canada Day at Painty McGee's

I love helping out at my daughter's art supply store, Painty McGee's. Yesterday we had our first kids art drop in. All of the children enjoyed their crafts and asked if they could come back another day. We made firework watching glasses, buttons and pinwheels. Many parents asked about future workshops and classes for adults. Good times.

Second Sabbatical Countdown Begins

Four days away from fourteen months off work. Have some travel plans. Will do some volunteering and take some courses. The rest will gradually unfold.

Chinese Lantern Festival

Just like the Rocky Mountains, photos don't do the Chinese Lantern Festival justice. The word lantern doesn't cut it either. Think larger than life, colourful and highly detailed figures, animals, boats, temples and other structures made of silk stretched over wire frames and illuminated from within. Add performances, music, food, crafts and it truly is a wonderful experience, well worth the $25 admission charge. Included in the price are two Cinesphere films on China - we were so enthralled with the lanterns we'll have to go back and see the films next time!

"The 2007 Rogers Chinese Lantern Festival will see a significant increase in lanterns with more than 40 massive, all new, illuminated, intricately designed scenes, depicting Chinese landmarks and mythology. This year the majority of the lantern sets will focus on three important dynasties in Chinese history; the Qin Dynasty, the Tang Dynasty, and the Song Dynasty."

The festival runs 7-11 daily until Labour Day and then on Saturdays and Sundays until October 7. Go here for more information.

Blue Jays at Rogers Centre

The last time I went to a Blue Jays game the venue was called the SkyDome and Joe Carter, Devon White and Roberto Alomar were on the team. On August 5th we watched the Jays beat the Texas Rangers four to one at the Rogers Centr. It was hubby's first baseball game and other than the searing sun, he enjoyed the "cultural experience". Thanks Barb & Iggy.

Road trip to North Carolina

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http://smartcar.blogspot.com