Oh, Canada!!!

September is here and we are finally off and running!

UBC campus lookout

 On the beach in Beautiful Vancouver

We spent a much-too-short 3 days in Vancouver seeing old friends (Ruth and David, Lotti and Shael, Morrie and Mary, and Gary) and visiting beloved places we hadn't seen since 1996-97 two sabbaticals ago.  (I have to admit, accompanying Miles on these sabbaticals has got to be the BEST GIG ever).

Ferry crossing between Vancouver and Victoria

After a smooth ferry sailing, we arrived in Victoria.  Ben, our generous and helpful host at the University of Victoria, met us at the dock and we immediately drove off to meet his family at the Saanich Fair.  This Labor Day tradition is much like an American county fair.  What I liked about it was the low-keyed pace and rural farm atmosphere.  There were many kinds of animals on display and various demonstrations like harness racing and milking.  The following is NOT for vegetarians:  we witnessed a 4-H auction of turkeys, steers and pigs.  Yep, these critters were sold off to the processing plants and would eventually end up on the dining room table.  Not easy for the kids who raise them!

 Steer sold 1200 lbs live makes a lot of steak!

We're staying in a charming studio apartment in a residential section of Victoria near a bus route.  The landlady owns a home with two rental units underneath.  The view is of her beautiful overgrown garden.  The unit is appointed with modern appliances and state-of-the-art kitchen tools. (I am lucky the landlord is a gourmet cook and furnished the kitchen accordingly!)

After 24 hours, I am the proud owner of a bus pass and have ventured out with Miles to the University (a 1/2 hour walk) and nearby grocery store.  I'm beginning to make my connections with friends of friends (Jan and Corinne).  Victoria is going to be very fun to explore and besides today's rain, I'm sure the weather will be mild.