ALGONQUIN PARK

We live on the doorstep of Algonquin Park and always enjoy a visit when the fall colours are at their best. Unfortunately this year most of the leaves had fallen before we arrived. Nevertheless it was still a great day to be up in the park.

Can you see the moose walking across the road? Click on the photo for a better view.

Our first stop was the art gallery

where they have an excellent display commemorating the life and work of Tom Thomson a famous Canadian painter who visited and worked in Algonquin Park a hundred years ago.

Next was a hike along the Hemlock Trail a short hike of only 3.5 km and rather easy if you have strong legs.

I was glad to find this bench and

enjoy the view of Jack Lake.

Time for a little nourishment after all that walking. The beach at Lake of Two Rivers was closed because of the algae growth so we just found an empty campsite and enjoyed the afternoon.

Last stop was the visitor's center and a view across the valley. Maybe next year the colours will be better.

Thanks for stopping by and safe travels everyone.

CRANBERRY PICKING

Today Durl and Linda took us cranberry picking.

The water was smooth, crystal clear and the weather was perfect about 28*C.

Passed this happy camper on the way in along with

this guy looking for breakfast.

Heading out across the bog looking for ....

cranberries. They are tiny and hard to see but this year the crop was plentiful.

Picking looks easy but you are often sitting in water and getting up and down can be a challenge. (for old guys)

By lunchtime our buckets were full and it was time to head home.

Best picking we've had in five years.

Thanks Linda and Durl. We will enjoy them this winter.

A WEEK IN THE CITY

Last week we spent in Toronto and London. Mary had an MRI at Sunnybrook Hospital  followed by a consultation. The good news is her tumor continues to shrink and they will continue to keep an eye on it every six months. There is a concern for the bones that were exposed to the radiation so constant monitoring is required.

Once done at the hospital we headed down the 401 to London where we had a few lovely days visiting my sisters and brother-in-laws. Nice to just chill out and enjoy their lovely backyards and the summer like weather we've been getting.

We like the relaxed pace and do what you want approach whenever we get together. Of course my sisters spoiled me by baking elderberry pie and making sure I got an extra piece. Yes, I am spoiled and love it.

Saturday we headed to the local markets which we always enjoy.

A little noisy but we managed.

The apples were a great price so we bought 30 pounds.

Now if there is a quilt shop in the area we have to find it.

You're not a quilter if you ........

don't need more fabric.

Stopped to admire this pioneer cabin and

found this beside it. It's a bicycle stand complete with all the tools and a pump necessary for any quick repairs your bike may need.

Final stop was this Quaker Meeting House built in 1859. We had a tour and a lovely chat with one of the current members who was doing some painting on the exterior.

Next day we headed north to celebrate Kate's birthday; but you've already seen those pictures.

Later this week we are going cranberry picking so I'll post those pictures on Friday.

Safe travels everyone and thanks for stopping by.

KATE'S 1ST BIRTHDAY

Last week was Kate's birthday and yesterday we all got together to celebrate.

Aunt Leanne brought balloons, a whole couch full of balloons. Kate's not too sure what she should do.

She soon figured out they were more fun on the floor than on the couch.

Big brother had to help open the presents.

It's a whale pillow just for Kate. She could barely lift it.

Sherri and Leanne enjoying the moment.

Our gang outside chatting with Owen who is hidden inside the tent.

Sean cooked the pizza ...........

which ...............

we all enjoyed.

How does a five year old do that after eating pizza all afternoon?

It was a great party.

NEW PIZZA OVEN

You know we love pizza, especially homemade pizza. Today we tried out the pizza oven recommended by brother Jim; we were not disappointed.

Mary made the dough.

We added our own ingredients.

Delicious!!!

The truck is still in the shop. Another two hours tomorrow and we should have it back on the road.

I'll post pictures once done, now I need another slice of pizza.

Thanks for stopping by and safe travels everyone.

LOOKS LIKE A TRAIN WRECK

Yesterday we tore my truck apart; steering wheel, console, dash all removed.

We've got wires dangling everywhere. Looks like a train wreck to me.

All that work to get the leaking heater coil out. Hope we can figure out how this puzzle goes back together.

Stay tuned there is more to come.

Thanks for stopping by and safe travels everyone. I'm not going anywhere for a while.