Our North American journey is now complete!
Our trek around North America took us from Toronto, up to the Yukon and then down to southern California. The Journey lasted about 2 and half months, starting on September 9, 2013 and finishing on November 20, 2013. During that time, over 16,500 kilometers (10,200 miles) were driven. Below are the logs of all the adventures we enjoyed along the way.
November 20, 2013.
In Ojai, California. After trekking around the Los Angeles area for a few days, we came back to Ojai to spend a few days with Tricia's Aunt and Uncle, Catherine and Al. Before arriving back in Ojai, we enjoyed a nice lunch with Tricia's cousin, Catherine Ann, who lives in Los Angeles. Tricia's Aunt and Uncle were, once again, very welcoming hosts. I managed to steal a little time to go back to Lake Casitas (this time without Al, although he was invited!) and try my luck at fishing. No fish caught this time, but it was still very enjoyable to be out on the lake, starting at around sunrise time. Al and Catherine babysat Bennett for us one night so that Tricia and I could enjoy a dinner on our own (the first dinner we've had on our own since we left Toronto in September!). There is a great place in Ojai called Meditation Mount, which is free to use by the public and maintained by a foundation. It gives you great vistas of the Ojai valley which many locals go to at sunrise and sunset. We went during sunset. There is also a beautifully maintained gardens there as well. Some of our Australia journey preparations included making arrangements for our vehicle to be shipped back to Toronto, from California, and as well as figuring out what clothes and other items we want to bring with us to Australia. As a special note, I had taken my late mother's ashes with us on our trip and spread them around places that we thought were special during our travels. With Catherine and Al's blessing, they allowed me to bury the last bit of ashes I have of my mother on their property. Al dug a hole right in front of their home, where I placed the ashes and then we planted a very nice plant as a place marker. This is the final resting place for my mother and she is in good hands as Al tends to the garden daily. I told him that every now and then I will be calling him to ask how my mom is doing. Rest in peace Dear.......Now we are set for Australia, and we leave on a evening flight tonight. This will comprise of our final Log for our North America journey.
Tricia: Our final few days in California were so good...I saw Catherine Ann for the first time in a LONG while and she looks terrific! CA - You need to meet us (Paris???). We went to Silverlake Reservoir and had a great walk. Bennett LOVED Catherine Ann (he has a thing for brunettes) and so having that time with her was great. While in Ojai, we got things in order to leave North America...that included SHOPPING with my Aunt Catherine (there are a lot of people with the same name in my family). She does NOT like shopping but was a trouper. We went to the Camarillo Outlets and let me tell you, if I had a job and money, I would have done some damage! I was VERY restrained however. I had to get a few things and was in desperate need of a few new items as I was so sick of my clothes...Catherine shopped her ass off and did WAY better than me! We also went for a pedicure...Bart doesn't understand these basic needs! As Bart mentioned, we put Shirley's ashes around Catherine and Al's property. I know she would have loved it there! Especially because it's very close to the front of the house and as we know, Shirley liked to be in the middle of where things happened! It was a really nice gesture. On our final day, Al drove us down to the airport...it was sad to say goodbye but we were excited about the next leg of our journey!
Tricia: Our final few days in California were so good...I saw Catherine Ann for the first time in a LONG while and she looks terrific! CA - You need to meet us (Paris???). We went to Silverlake Reservoir and had a great walk. Bennett LOVED Catherine Ann (he has a thing for brunettes) and so having that time with her was great. While in Ojai, we got things in order to leave North America...that included SHOPPING with my Aunt Catherine (there are a lot of people with the same name in my family). She does NOT like shopping but was a trouper. We went to the Camarillo Outlets and let me tell you, if I had a job and money, I would have done some damage! I was VERY restrained however. I had to get a few things and was in desperate need of a few new items as I was so sick of my clothes...Catherine shopped her ass off and did WAY better than me! We also went for a pedicure...Bart doesn't understand these basic needs! As Bart mentioned, we put Shirley's ashes around Catherine and Al's property. I know she would have loved it there! Especially because it's very close to the front of the house and as we know, Shirley liked to be in the middle of where things happened! It was a really nice gesture. On our final day, Al drove us down to the airport...it was sad to say goodbye but we were excited about the next leg of our journey!
November 16, 2013.
In Bel Air, California. I now understand why millions upon millions of people have gone to Disneyland. It's expensive, crowded, plastic, commercial and contrived, but.....it's also exciting, entertaining, wondrous and extraordinary! Adults walk around with Mickey Mouse ear hats on their heads! The place makes you feel like a kid again. We had a great time, and both Tricia and I had very low expectations. I was expecting a giant Canada's Wonderland type place, which it kind of is, but they really spare no expense within the park. We went on some really fun rides that took some great imagination to build (the Cars - Radiator Springs Racers and the Toy Story Midway Mania rides were particularly great). The atmosphere is so energetic, it's a total fantasy land. Not sure I'd want to spend an entire week there, although it might take a week to see everything there is to see inside the park. To start our day we actually signed up for one of those high pressure sales "time sharing" type seminars (we were approached the evening before by some guy on the street). The guy promised us a free breakfast plus a hundred bucks cash simply for sitting through a sales session for Wyndham Estates. Well, we got our free breakfast (which was rather inedible), sat through the seminar (sales pitch) and then took a survey with the sales guy (who actually was a nice gent), then we collected our $100 and spent it while we were inside Disneyland for the day. Nice! After our day at Disneyland, we headed to Long Beach to spend the night. While in Long Beach, we visited the Queen Mary, which is permanently docked and completely open to tour. The cruise ship has been out of service since the 1960's, but my Grandmother, Eileen (a war bride), came over to Canada from England on the Queen Mary along with my Dad (when he was one year old) back in 1946. It was amazing to be able to walk around the ship and experience what they would have seen so many years ago. There are several restaurants on the ship, and we decided to stay for lunch. Quite a treat! After our tour of the Great ship, we headed north up to Hollywood and spent some time at the Griffith Observatory which gives you a panoramic view of all of Los Angeles as well as a great view of the famous Hollywood sign. We have been so lucky with weather as it was a beautiful warm, sunny day which made the views picture perfect. After Hollywood, we drove over to the Redondo Beach area to spend the night there and also to have dinner with Tricia's friend Menaka and her husband Ed. As a great act of kindness, they footed the bill on the tab, thanks so much guys! Today, we spent the day on the western coastline of LA, checking out Redondo Beach, Manhattan Beach (where I met Jack, a semi retired man whose hobby is metal detecting on the beach and has done quite well at it!), Marina Del Rey (cause Marc Jordan wrote a catchy song about the place - Google it!), and Venice Beach (which is fun, yet very quirky - Muscle beach is there! Plus it reeks of weed!). Now, we are in Bel Air. This is the home of the Fresh Prince (an old sitcom from the 90's starring Will Smith). We decided to treat ourselves to a fancy pants hotel. Tomorrow, we will head back to Ojai and spend a few days with Catherine and Al (Tricia's Aunt and Uncle) once again and then we will be preparing for our Australian leg of the the journey when we leave on the 20th of November. Exciting times ahead!
Tricia: okay, to clarify one thing. "We" didn't decide to sign up for the timeshare seminar, Bart did. He dragged me there and repeatedly asked how much money I had made in the past 2 months...I told him I would gladly give him the $100 but no. In reality however, it was not that bad. Actually, it was but it made for some good laughs. Bennett had to sit in the whole thing with us and he got right into clapping. Poor kid, all he wanted to do was go to Disney but he had to listen to a weird man talk about hotels which he has been living in for 2 months! He was really good though. As Bart mentioned, we did not have high hopes for Disney...Bart hates crowds! But it really was incredible. Bennett LOVED it and we went on as many rides as possible. Bart took Bennett on a huge ferris wheel where the carriage actually swings back and forth. Bart was petrified and Bennett calmed him down! I still think it is odd for grown adults to buy mouse ears - really, when else are you going to wear them? But we are glad we did it! (Thanks to Catherine and AL!)...We met up with my lovely friends Menaka and Ed and the visit was far too short! They actually left from the restaurant to go to the airport as they were flying to Buffalo! I'm so glad that I was able to squeeze in a visit (no matter how short). We also went to Venice Beach where I went many years ago (like 27 years to be exact!). I remember thinking of it being such an awesome and exciting place where I would love to live one day. It still is exciting and awesome but there is a level of sketch that makes me not want to live there (as an adult)...I would prefer to live here in Bel Air! Today we meet my cousin Catherine for a visit - can't wait to see that girl!
Tricia: okay, to clarify one thing. "We" didn't decide to sign up for the timeshare seminar, Bart did. He dragged me there and repeatedly asked how much money I had made in the past 2 months...I told him I would gladly give him the $100 but no. In reality however, it was not that bad. Actually, it was but it made for some good laughs. Bennett had to sit in the whole thing with us and he got right into clapping. Poor kid, all he wanted to do was go to Disney but he had to listen to a weird man talk about hotels which he has been living in for 2 months! He was really good though. As Bart mentioned, we did not have high hopes for Disney...Bart hates crowds! But it really was incredible. Bennett LOVED it and we went on as many rides as possible. Bart took Bennett on a huge ferris wheel where the carriage actually swings back and forth. Bart was petrified and Bennett calmed him down! I still think it is odd for grown adults to buy mouse ears - really, when else are you going to wear them? But we are glad we did it! (Thanks to Catherine and AL!)...We met up with my lovely friends Menaka and Ed and the visit was far too short! They actually left from the restaurant to go to the airport as they were flying to Buffalo! I'm so glad that I was able to squeeze in a visit (no matter how short). We also went to Venice Beach where I went many years ago (like 27 years to be exact!). I remember thinking of it being such an awesome and exciting place where I would love to live one day. It still is exciting and awesome but there is a level of sketch that makes me not want to live there (as an adult)...I would prefer to live here in Bel Air! Today we meet my cousin Catherine for a visit - can't wait to see that girl!
November 12, 2013.
In Anaheim, California. We have spent the last 4 nights at the Earle/Meek Ranch (otherwise known as Tricia's Aunt Catherine and Uncle Al's house) located in Oak View, California, just outside of Ojai. "Bart Advisor", the lesser known but well trusted sister site of TripAdvisor gives it a 4.5 star rating (would have been 5 star, however, the internet connectivity was spotty). So many highlights!! Let's see...where do I start. Had some great meals with owners Catherine and Al (his actual name is Paul, but he goes by Al). I had many deep discussions with Al, ranging from such topics as our disdain for Fox News, the Tea Party, the Republican Party and anything right winged Conservative to Family "dirt" and how not all Americans are overweight. Catherine and Al have an amazing property, about 3 acres in size, with an array of vegetation (all hand planted by Al) including grapefruit trees, orange trees, lemon trees, cacti, and succulents. There are 2 abodes on the property. The main house where Catherine and Al live (a beautiful A frame structure with a man made recirculating creek in the back) as well as a guest "cabin" (where Tricia, Bennett and myself slept) which includes a lower level bedroom and upstairs Grand room complete with semi-oval, star studded ceiling (see my pics to see what I mean!) and billiards table. It is about a 20 minute drive down to the Pacific Coast where there are some great beaches, which we (well Bennett mostly) enjoyed. A major highlight for myself was spending the day on local Lake Casitas with Al where we rented a small boat and fished. I caught 2 nice bass that were about 4 lbs each. The Lake was calm and beautiful, weather was sunny and warm (around 25C) and surrounded by picturesque mountains. On Sunday's at the local Farmers Market, Al operates a "Free Hug" booth where he gives free hugs to anyone who would like a hug. He has many regular visitors who drop by for his services. We made our way from Ojai down to Anaheim today driving through Malibu, Santa Monica and LA. We didn't stop other than for lunch at a beach restaurant in Malibu called Paradise Cove (had my first Po Boy sandwich there!). We are staying in a Marriott right across from the entry gates to Disneyland. I'm trying to keep a very open mind about tomorrows activities, this will mostly be a "Bennett" day. Who knows, maybe Disneyland will be fun? I've never been before, so it's a first for me. We'll see how it goes!
Tricia: It has been so good to stay in Ojai for a few consecutive days. We have had a great time hanging out with Catherine and Al, who have been nothing but amazing. Seeing my cousin Rachel was awesome. She fixed Bennett's "beast", which is his blanket and was completely in tattered shreds. My grandmother had made it for him when he was born and he is NEVER without it. Thankfully, Granny also taught Rachel her mad crochet skills so she was able to repair the beast! Bennett was very happy. I love Ojai. It is such a nice little laid back town and just another gem in California. As Bart said, we are in Anaheim right now...Bennett is so EXCITED that i don't know about his sleeping tonight. Unfortunately, my husband has been talked into going to a time share seminar from 8:30 to 10am tomorrow, before Disney! I CANNOT believe that this is happening but he thinks it will be "FUN" - Stu Jones, this is your fault. Bart thinks you would be proud! We get free breakfast AND $100 Disney dollars...I'm dreading this. I will update you all on this situation tomorrow...
Tricia: It has been so good to stay in Ojai for a few consecutive days. We have had a great time hanging out with Catherine and Al, who have been nothing but amazing. Seeing my cousin Rachel was awesome. She fixed Bennett's "beast", which is his blanket and was completely in tattered shreds. My grandmother had made it for him when he was born and he is NEVER without it. Thankfully, Granny also taught Rachel her mad crochet skills so she was able to repair the beast! Bennett was very happy. I love Ojai. It is such a nice little laid back town and just another gem in California. As Bart said, we are in Anaheim right now...Bennett is so EXCITED that i don't know about his sleeping tonight. Unfortunately, my husband has been talked into going to a time share seminar from 8:30 to 10am tomorrow, before Disney! I CANNOT believe that this is happening but he thinks it will be "FUN" - Stu Jones, this is your fault. Bart thinks you would be proud! We get free breakfast AND $100 Disney dollars...I'm dreading this. I will update you all on this situation tomorrow...
November 9, 2013
In Ojai, California. It has been a long road getting here, but we are pretty much at our final, main travel destination in North America. We have now been traveling for 2 months! Tricia's Aunt and Uncle (Catherine and Al) welcomed us late this afternoon into their fabulous home. We spent a couple of days exploring the Cambria area, which included a trip to the Hearst Castle. I wouldn't say it's a castle, but rather a fabulous estate built by the late William Randolf Hearst over the course of almost 30 years and was later donated to the State of California. It has become a major tourist site and, no wonder, because the place is remarkable. Constructed high up in the hills overlooking the Pacific, it once housed the largest private zoo in the world. The zoo is no longer, but there are still zebras roaming the fields, which we happened to spy! The State has really done a great job maintaining the estate and tourists are free to roam the grounds as well as take a guided tour of the interior, which we did. Snapped some fantastic pics! After Cambria, our southbound trek included a nights stay in Santa Maria (took Bennett to the Discovery Museum while Tricia got a pedicure!) followed by a stay over in Buellton (great Marriott Hotel there - we got the IBM rate, a free suite upgrade, free entre dinner and free breakfast!). Like I mentioned before, we wanted to see places that most out of Country tourists don't see. Our travels exposed us to vast (and I mean vast!) fields of produce that is grown in California. Back in the grocery stores of Toronto (our old home), a lot of produce comes from the very areas that we drove through, including the giants fields of raspberries from the Driscol farms! Other memorable stops along the way included Morro Bay (great beach there!), Pismo Beach (an even greater beach!) and Santa Barbara (oh wait, great beach there as well! and we had a nice lunch on the pier). We will be staying in Ojai with Catherine and Al until we leave to Australia on the 20th of November. Actually, we will also probably use their home as a bit of home- base while we do a few day trips around the area including some nights in Los Angeles. We were also very delighted to see Tricia's cousin Rachel, whom Bennett had an instant rapport with! Rachel drove up from LA this evening to Catherine and Al's to meet us. It will be nice to spend some time in one place, without having to pack our bags for a little while. Hopefully we will not wear out our welcome too quickly!
November 5, 2013.
In Cambria, California. OMG! California is incredible! Redwood trees 300 feet high, Pacific Ocean, seals, sea lions, seafood, steaks, wine, mountains, 25C temperature (during the day in November), fog, sun, sand....it's got it all. Although, the entire State is poised to fall into the Ocean, so let's enjoy it while we can. We had a big bust in Yosemite. When 500 people converge with smartphone cameras on 1 deer, it's not the place for me. I was expecting a pristine, tranquil, remote camping experience, but no. Instead all campsites were full, in November, one site remaining and it basically looked like the Occupy Movement (remember when all those tree hugging hippies descended upon Wall Street and other major financial districts to protest the top 1% of wealth makers?...they ended up in Yosemiti!). There were tents on top of tents in an otherwise beautifully landscaped area. We got the hell outta Dodge, fast, and headed for a Marriott hotel in Merced, California (about an hour and a half outside of Yosemite). We in fact only took 3 pictures while in Yosemite and only just to prove we went there. Such a disappointment. It could be that we have been so spoiled with remote, and unpopulated beauty starting from the Yukon all the way down to southern BC. I guess if you hopped off the plane in LA and drove directly to Yosemite, you would be very impressed, but, we were not. Ah well. What are you going to do? I can only imagine what Yosemite would be like in the summer....a million people in the park at once maybe? We have definitely seen places in California that most tourists do not venture to, which is good, because part of the point of our trip is to experience things. As examples, how many tourists trick or treat in Turlock, or go to Los Banos, or visit (and attempt to camp) at the San Luis Reservoir, or have lunch in Watsonville? Not many, and there's actually a good reason for that too. It's not all that great in the interior of California! I think the coast of California is where it's at, although Sacramento was very good though! After spending the night in Merced, we wanted to camp, and desperately. So, we headed to the Redwoods! Big Basin Redwood State Park to be exact, which is just north of Monterey. We found the LAST campsite available in the Park. Yes, I quote, the last. The Redwood forests do not disappoint. It is beautiful in the tall trees. The campsite was great. Although there were lots of people there, it felt completely remote. The only bad thing was that it got down to just about the freezing level at night. So, we did not sleep. Tricia, Bennett and myself snuggled together in frigidity on 1 double sized blow up mattress. We actually have 2 blow up mattresses, but it was just too cold to sleep alone. Nonetheless, it was still quite a camping experience. Yesterday, we treated ourselves to a really nice hotel in Monterey at the Intercontinental (we got a great deal on Hotwire!). Monterey is a really nice city. Quite touristy, which you would expect, but had lots of charm (apparently some writer called Steinbeck wrote some novels there? I dunno...I'm not a reader, nor a writer either). The Aquarium in Monterey is probably the best one we've ever been to. Expensive, yes, but certainly worth the price. Hopefully the pictures we took while inside the Aquarium will do it justice. The drive from Monterey to our current, temporary, home in Cambria was spectacular (all along the #1 Highway on the US Pacific Coast). Beaches like you wouldn't believe and sea lions, sleeping and fighting each other were seen along the way. We have checked into a nice hotel called the FogCatcher Inn for 2 nights. Beach is right across the street and we will check it all out in the morning! Be sure to check out the video of the Pacific coast sunset on the US Hwy 1 we took while driving here and of Bennett trick or treating in Turlock!
Tricia: Ok - I HATE to admit that I didn't LOVE Yosemite, but it's true. I didn't love Yosemite...I feel like a failure but I can't help it. There were just WAY too many people in too small an area. Of course, some of it is our fault as we should have been more prepared and researched, but that's just not us. I think it is because we were so spoiled with the sights we have seen and there were very few tourists...However, i do LOVE California. I think i was meant to live here. I want Bart to get a contract here...preferably in Carmel or Mendocino...so far. The list keeps growing. After the sad failure of Yosemite, we headed to the coast. Yes, we camped. I succumbed to the pressure. Bennett was desperate to camp, so we did. It's over. Thank GOD. It was absolutely freezing. The Big Basin camp was awesome, and our camp site was beautiful but i would have been happy to see it and then go to a hotel. It was THAT cold! Even Bart admitted to it. Also, there were a million baby racoons that converged onto the campsite AND a skunk wandered in too. However, I am so glad we did it. Bennett loved it but asked in the morning if we were going to a hotowel? Monterrey was awesome, very touristy but also worth it. We loved the aquarium and spent hours there.We are in Cambria and loving it. We are spoiling ourselves a little right now with our dinners out and nice hotels, but i think after the camping trauma, we deserve it. I'm a little worried about my Granny Meek, who is not so well right now and in hospital...it is times like this that it is hard to be away. However, the fact that she told her doctor that he was a nice specimen, makes me smile...xo to you Granny!
Tricia: Ok - I HATE to admit that I didn't LOVE Yosemite, but it's true. I didn't love Yosemite...I feel like a failure but I can't help it. There were just WAY too many people in too small an area. Of course, some of it is our fault as we should have been more prepared and researched, but that's just not us. I think it is because we were so spoiled with the sights we have seen and there were very few tourists...However, i do LOVE California. I think i was meant to live here. I want Bart to get a contract here...preferably in Carmel or Mendocino...so far. The list keeps growing. After the sad failure of Yosemite, we headed to the coast. Yes, we camped. I succumbed to the pressure. Bennett was desperate to camp, so we did. It's over. Thank GOD. It was absolutely freezing. The Big Basin camp was awesome, and our camp site was beautiful but i would have been happy to see it and then go to a hotel. It was THAT cold! Even Bart admitted to it. Also, there were a million baby racoons that converged onto the campsite AND a skunk wandered in too. However, I am so glad we did it. Bennett loved it but asked in the morning if we were going to a hotowel? Monterrey was awesome, very touristy but also worth it. We loved the aquarium and spent hours there.We are in Cambria and loving it. We are spoiling ourselves a little right now with our dinners out and nice hotels, but i think after the camping trauma, we deserve it. I'm a little worried about my Granny Meek, who is not so well right now and in hospital...it is times like this that it is hard to be away. However, the fact that she told her doctor that he was a nice specimen, makes me smile...xo to you Granny!
November 1, 2013.
In Turlock, California. We spent a couple of days in the Fort Bragg area, enjoying the Pacific coast while staying at the Surf and Sand, a small hotel right in Fort Bragg. Before leaving the coast, we spent most of the day at a beach which was littered with seaweed and sand flies, but was redeemed by the resident seals who were shy, but allowed us to snap a bunch of pictures of them. We also dropped into the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, which got a very high rating on Tripadvisor, but was a little disappointing (probably better in the summer when more flowers are in bloom). Our drive inland included a night stay in Ukiah, not really a lot to mention, however, it is surrounded by beautiful rolling mountains and seemed quite arid, almost desert like. The next day was spent driving into Sacramento which included a drive around Lake Mendacino (not very spectacular) and Clear Lake where we stopped for a lakeside lunch of grilled cheese (that I fried up on my portable burner!). I heard tell that Clear Lake had bass in it, however, my fishing attempt proved fruitless, ah well! I've yet to catch a fish in California in spite of the 100+ dollars it cost for a California fishing license (I want my money back!). The drive into Sacramento took us through gently rolling mountains and then into prairie flats. Sacramento itself is a really nice city, at least of what we saw, and it's the State Capitol. Lots of things to do in Sacramento including an incredible train museum called the California State Railroad Museum which rivals even the Railway museum we saw in Duluth! We enjoyed the best meal of the trip so far in a restaurant called Cafeteria 15L. Sacramento has an excellent historical downtown area where the buildings have all been kept up the way they were in the 1800's. According to Connor, he described Sacramento as being "sketchy", but I think not, we could definitely live there. We did have a bad experience with the US health care system. Bennett is not feeling 100% so we wanted to take him to a clinic in Sacramento. We have travel insurance, however, the clinics don't accept the insurance, they want cash up front (no credit cards accepted either!). Last night we took Bennett out trick or treating in Turlock, the town we are currently staying in (it was 20C out during the evening). We dressed him up as a pirate and drove to a nice looking neighbourhood, parked the car and walked around to a bunch of houses. There were many kids out, which was nice. Bennett collected a fine booty of loot! Today we are heading out to Yosemiti Park. We are camping whether Tricia likes it or not! Let's see how that goes!
Tricia: I hate the healthcare system here. I know I am not a citizen but it is IMPOSSIBLE to understand! That is my rant, Bart has heard the extended version which goes on for hours...lucky man. We are going to take B in to the clinic today and just pay upfront despite having extended healthcare insurance (no one takes it!)... Sacramento was a great city! We had fun despite Bennett not feeling great. Halloween was fun too. Trick or treating with palm trees! Bennett was so excited...but he faded towards the end and his bucket was overflowing. He just said, can we go eat the candy back at the hotowel? I'm excited about Yosemite - i think it will be great. I put one stipulation on the whole camping thing - I would camp as long as we were not the only ones camping...we'll see how it goes!
Tricia: I hate the healthcare system here. I know I am not a citizen but it is IMPOSSIBLE to understand! That is my rant, Bart has heard the extended version which goes on for hours...lucky man. We are going to take B in to the clinic today and just pay upfront despite having extended healthcare insurance (no one takes it!)... Sacramento was a great city! We had fun despite Bennett not feeling great. Halloween was fun too. Trick or treating with palm trees! Bennett was so excited...but he faded towards the end and his bucket was overflowing. He just said, can we go eat the candy back at the hotowel? I'm excited about Yosemite - i think it will be great. I put one stipulation on the whole camping thing - I would camp as long as we were not the only ones camping...we'll see how it goes!
October 29, 2013.
In Fort Bragg, California. When you enter into Northern California from Oregon, you are presented with massive Redwood trees. Some of these trees are over a thousand years old and are big enough to be able to drive a car through. Many of these trees, in fact most of them, have sadly been cut down, but pockets of them remain and are, thankfully, now protected in the many State Parks that are abound in California. If you've never seen a full grown Redwood, they are quite a site. We ended up having quite a long drive down to our first night stop in California to a small town called McKinleyille. We were a little foolish not to plan ahead and ended up having to stay in a rather dumpy Holiday Inn Express. There actually is quite a bit of accommodation, but it is pricey as are most things in California, even the gas (at close to $4 a gallon whereas in some places in Oregon, I saw it for closer to $3...ah well!). We left McKinleyville and headed further south to Fort Bragg, which took us through State Parks filled with Redwoods, including one that we drove through (although our roof rack made our car too tall to fit through completely). We stopped at the Loleta Cheese Factory in Loleta and sampled some of the many cheeses they make. Learned quite a bit about how cheese is made from the nice "cheese girl" working there (snapped a picture of her with Bennett). We also stopped for a roadside coffee and tea (whereby I break out my portable burner and heat up the water) in a State Park camping spot amongst giant Redwoods. I was totally trying to convince Tricia that we should camp, even though it was a little chilly. We didn't though as the following day we had a 10AM train trip to catch on the Skunk Train and we needed to be close enough to the train station to make it in the morning. The Skunk Train was a great little side trip, particularly for Bennett. It's a 4 hour, round trip through a Redwood forest near Fort Bragg. After our train trip, we did a short drive into Mendocino, a small town that Tricia and her folks visited when she was a kid. The coast of California is breathtaking along Hwy 1 where the Pacific crashes into giant rocky cliffs and beautiful beaches. Although we are in California, the temperature is still a little chili (although nothing compared to what it is back in Toronto, suckers! hahahhahaa!). Maybe the weather will warm up a little more as we head South. We are heading to inland California tomorrow towards Sacremento. We don't have any solid plans for the next few days, so if anyone reading has any good suggestions, let us know! We do know that we want to make it to Yosemite Park (to possibly do some camping) and then on to Ojai (outside of Los Angeles) to visit with Tricia's Aunt and Uncle. Got some great pics over the last few days, check'em out! Oh, and thanks Peter and Lu for your California advice in your emails.
Tricia: We had a great time in the Mendocino area. The Redwoods are amazing, and we have great pics of the days...Bennett looked SO small compared to them (actually so did we!). McKinleyville was awful...just bad all around. I hated the hotel (it was minging) and we had no options! But we did see the biggest totem pole in the world...so that was a positive thing I guess (even although it was outside their strip mall!). We went through the Avenue of the Giants towards Mendocino. It is quite a drive. I have to commend the Bartman. He is a very patient and calm driver. The Mendocino area is just amazing. I could easily live here...(they even have a hand made tie dye factory here...LOVE)...once again, I abstained from the full onesie. We did the Skunk Train, which I had done 25 years ago! Bennett absolutely loved it and it was a great way to see a beautiful part of the world. We had some great dinners (and treated ourselves to some really nice meals). Bart keeps trying to convince me to camp - even although it gets down to 3 degrees. He is starting to throw fits and ask where my sense of adventure is...really? Camping is not adventurous, skydiving is. We are heading towards Yosemite (and maybe camping)...pray for me!
Tricia: We had a great time in the Mendocino area. The Redwoods are amazing, and we have great pics of the days...Bennett looked SO small compared to them (actually so did we!). McKinleyville was awful...just bad all around. I hated the hotel (it was minging) and we had no options! But we did see the biggest totem pole in the world...so that was a positive thing I guess (even although it was outside their strip mall!). We went through the Avenue of the Giants towards Mendocino. It is quite a drive. I have to commend the Bartman. He is a very patient and calm driver. The Mendocino area is just amazing. I could easily live here...(they even have a hand made tie dye factory here...LOVE)...once again, I abstained from the full onesie. We did the Skunk Train, which I had done 25 years ago! Bennett absolutely loved it and it was a great way to see a beautiful part of the world. We had some great dinners (and treated ourselves to some really nice meals). Bart keeps trying to convince me to camp - even although it gets down to 3 degrees. He is starting to throw fits and ask where my sense of adventure is...really? Camping is not adventurous, skydiving is. We are heading towards Yosemite (and maybe camping)...pray for me!
October 26, 2013.
In Medford, Oregon. We have really been enjoying the State of Oregon. It seems to have everything you would want from mountains, volcanoes, ocean coastline, forests, amazing State Parks, nice climate and great amenities. After leaving Lincoln City (where we spent a couple of days), we headed south, down the coast of Oregon and ended up in Eugene but not before stopping at an oyster farm, a sand dune (near Newport) and having a roadside lunch along the way on the Yaquina River. We stayed in Eugene at a Marriott (ahhh the Marriotts...) on points (free baby!) and we were lucky to get a room as Eugene is home to the Oregon State University and apparently most of the hotels were all booked due to a College football game. They LOVE football in the USA! It's bigger than any religion. I overheard that rooms at the same hotel we were staying were going for $279 for the night. After Eugene, we drove to the Crater Lake National Park. The crater was formed by a volcano that exploded thousands of years ago. The lake inside the crater is filled with water from rain and melted snow, no rivers feed into it. At it's max depth of almost 2,000 feet, it is the deepest lake in the US. By all accounts, Crater Lake could qualify as one of the wonders of world just through it's amazing beauty. The entire crater rim has a road around it so you can see the lake from 360 degrees of different viewing angles. We were very lucky to see it on a nice sunny and mild day. Tomorrow, we will be driving into northern California and intend to visit the Redwood National Park. California, here we come! Tricia will update her section tomorrow, her and Bennett are in sleepy land right now.
Tricia: I still LOVE this state. In fact, I told Bart that when we return, he could look for contracts in Oregon and I would be happy! We seemed to have driven a LOT yesterday so today we are limiting the driving to 3 hours. Bart was in absolute heaven at the oyster farm - it was disgusting. However, he bought an entire large container and proceeded to eat them much to Bennett and my disgust! Then he wanted to cook them at the hotel (if we got a suite)...REALLY Bart? Oysters in a hotel room? That is vile. Needless to say, it didn't happen. Crater lake was spectacular! We debated going because we really were headed to the Redwoods but I am so glad we did. It was awesome....We really arent planned for today but we shall see...good luck to Connor in his 2nd tournament and safe drive to Sharron and Ivan who are going down to Florida!
Tricia: I still LOVE this state. In fact, I told Bart that when we return, he could look for contracts in Oregon and I would be happy! We seemed to have driven a LOT yesterday so today we are limiting the driving to 3 hours. Bart was in absolute heaven at the oyster farm - it was disgusting. However, he bought an entire large container and proceeded to eat them much to Bennett and my disgust! Then he wanted to cook them at the hotel (if we got a suite)...REALLY Bart? Oysters in a hotel room? That is vile. Needless to say, it didn't happen. Crater lake was spectacular! We debated going because we really were headed to the Redwoods but I am so glad we did. It was awesome....We really arent planned for today but we shall see...good luck to Connor in his 2nd tournament and safe drive to Sharron and Ivan who are going down to Florida!
October 23, 2013.
In Lincoln City, Oregon. After leaving the Seattle area, we headed down the I-5 towards Portland, Oregon. About an hour and a half away from Portland, to the North East, is Mount Saint Helens. It was foggy and chili during most of the drive, however, as soon as we went over the mountains, the fog lifted and the temperature shot up! It was like God Himself opened the heavens. Mount Saint Helens is a volcano that had a major eruption in 1980, killing 57 people and leaving devastation around the local area. The snow capped cone of the volcano (still active, but sleeping today), can be seen from many miles away, and it is spectacular. We happened to be in the area when it was sunny and really warm, especially for this time of year in late October (around 20C). The Volcano is in a State Park and the State has done a excellent job making the Volcano very accessible to view via the Johnson Ridge Observatory. It's definitely worth the drive. We drove into Portland to spend the night (again at a nice Marriot which had a great hot-tub and pool for Bennett and I). We would have liked to spend some time in Portland as it seemed to be quite a nice City, however, Bennett was not in a great mood. We did manage to stop in at Powell's Book Store which is apparently the largest used book store in the world. We left Portland and stopped at the Erath Winery in Dundee, Oregon. We've had Erath Pinot Noir wine many times back in Ontario, so it was very interesting to see where the wine came from. We did a wine tasting and bought 6 bottles of wine, one of which I've already consumed. One of the bottles is a gift for Tricia's Aunt Catherine and Uncle Al. Looking forward to seeing you guys (if you're reading our travel log now you know to expect a gift!). Oregon has many wineries and the geography of the land is beautiful between Portland and the West coast. Similar to the Niagara Region in Ontario, but with semi-sized mountains. We also stopped at a u-pick kiwi farm. So much fun! Unbelievable weather too, mid 20's (Celsius) and sunny all day for us! The weather changed abruptly when we got close to the Pacific whereby it chilled down 10 degrees and became foggy. We are now in Lincoln City, Oregon which is right on the ocean and are staying at a ocean front hotel which has a separate bedroom for Bennett (complete with bunk beds which he is loving). We get to have more adult time tonight without Bennett being in the same room as us! I uploaded some excellent pics and vids from Washington State and
Oregon, be sure to check them out. Tricia will update her section below in the morning...she's sleeping now.
Tricia: I LOVE OREGON...it's not really high up there on people's travel must see lists but we have loved every bit of it. It is a little touristy here on the coast but because it is off season, we get to enjoy the best of what is here (and things generally stay open unlike in my homeland - sorry Canada!). Portland was a great city (although we didn't see much mostly because Bennett was absolutely foul). However, i would totally go back and spend some time. Great restaurants, very laid back, great shops etc. I have to say, i have been VERY good about not shopping. In fact, i haven't even wanted to...what the hell is wrong with me??? The only thing I have bought so far is books! Today we spent time at 2 State Park beach areas. It was not exactly swimming weather but we had a great time. Bennett LOVES the beach and it is almost impossible to get him away...basically, we are bad parents and bribe him with ice cream. We went to Newport today and had lunch at a fantastic seafood restaurant (obviously Bart was in heaven). We sat and watched the sea lions on the shoreline right across the street. Anyway, tomorrow we head further south towards California. Not sure where we are stopping, but we shall see!
Oregon, be sure to check them out. Tricia will update her section below in the morning...she's sleeping now.
Tricia: I LOVE OREGON...it's not really high up there on people's travel must see lists but we have loved every bit of it. It is a little touristy here on the coast but because it is off season, we get to enjoy the best of what is here (and things generally stay open unlike in my homeland - sorry Canada!). Portland was a great city (although we didn't see much mostly because Bennett was absolutely foul). However, i would totally go back and spend some time. Great restaurants, very laid back, great shops etc. I have to say, i have been VERY good about not shopping. In fact, i haven't even wanted to...what the hell is wrong with me??? The only thing I have bought so far is books! Today we spent time at 2 State Park beach areas. It was not exactly swimming weather but we had a great time. Bennett LOVES the beach and it is almost impossible to get him away...basically, we are bad parents and bribe him with ice cream. We went to Newport today and had lunch at a fantastic seafood restaurant (obviously Bart was in heaven). We sat and watched the sea lions on the shoreline right across the street. Anyway, tomorrow we head further south towards California. Not sure where we are stopping, but we shall see!
October 21, 2013.
In Seattle, Washington. Back in the USA! Although Canada is our home (well...not really anymore as we no longer have a fixed address), we are very happy to be back in America. It seems that, while traveling, there is just so much more to see and do. Also, you can't beat the prices. As a small example. There are over 30 Marriott Hotels in the Seattle area alone (pretty much as many as there are in all of Canada!). We love Marriott, not only because they have consistently clean rooms, but I've accumulated a tonne of Rewards Points from Marriott through my work travels. Our stays at Marriott hotels are free, and because of my Gold status, we get free upgrades to Suites baby! We left Vancouver and headed down to see what Seattle has to offer. Seattle is a really great city. Clean, safe, on the Pacific Ocean, has a Space Needle and is the home of the very first Starbucks at Pike Place Market. We had a great day in Seattle, visiting the Pacific Science Center (which also had a great butterfly room), the Chihuly Garden and Glass (Tricia went there while I went to the Children's Museum with Bennett), the Space Needle (although we didn't go up the Needle, just saw from the bottom), and Pike Place Market. Seattle also has a monorail that goes from the Seattle Center (where the Space Needle is) to downtown. Bennett especially enjoyed the ride on the monorail. Had an excellent meal tonight at a "dive" called Crockett's Public House (featured on America's Diners Drive-ins and Dives). We are staying tonight at a Marriott (for free!) just outside of Seattle in a town called Puyallup. Tomorrow we will be heading down to the Portland, Oregon area, and we may stop at Mount Saint Helen's along the way. Check out our pics from Seattle!
Tricia: Ok - let me clarify, there is not more to see in the US vs. Canada, however (at this time of year) it is far more convenient to travel here. We had a great day in Seattle! Bart watched Bennett and I went to the Chihuly Museum. Although it was small, it was spectacular! I really enjoyed it (and enjoyed the break too!). Bart had a mild melt down at the market because there were too many people (and he went a little crazy about the price of fish). However, we found a great little French bakery and had a nice lunch. We are planning as we go right now and it is kind of good and kind of time consuming....however, it's a nice predicament to be in. Basically, our most pressing decision is should we head to the coast or more inland...decisions, decisions!
Tricia: Ok - let me clarify, there is not more to see in the US vs. Canada, however (at this time of year) it is far more convenient to travel here. We had a great day in Seattle! Bart watched Bennett and I went to the Chihuly Museum. Although it was small, it was spectacular! I really enjoyed it (and enjoyed the break too!). Bart had a mild melt down at the market because there were too many people (and he went a little crazy about the price of fish). However, we found a great little French bakery and had a nice lunch. We are planning as we go right now and it is kind of good and kind of time consuming....however, it's a nice predicament to be in. Basically, our most pressing decision is should we head to the coast or more inland...decisions, decisions!
October 18, 2013.
In Vancouver, British Columbia. We've had some wonderful weather over the last several days, sunny and mild. This made our experiences in Whistler and the surrounding areas even better. The drive from Whistler into Vancouver is only about one and a half hours on the Sea to Sky Hwy (aka. Hwy 99). Although the drive is beautiful, winding alongside the Pacific Ocean and mountains, it did not compare to the drive coming in on Hwy 99 north of Whistler (in my opinion anyways). Once we arrived in Vancouver, we checked into the Best Western Plus Hotel, located right in the downtown core. We were very happy to get a Suite (at a totally reasonable $70 a night on Hotwire) which included a separate bedroom area where we could stow Bennett away once he fell asleep, and get some nice adult time in the separate living area. My (very talkative) Aunt Lorraine lives in Vancouver, so we stopped by to see her. We visited the Telus World of Science which is a sphere shaped building (like Ontario Place in Toronto) right on the water front in Vancouver. This was an interesting place to visit especially if you have kids (and free, because of our Ontario Science Center family membership!). Afterwards, Tricia looked after Bennett and I took my Aunt Lorraine to the Edgewater Casino (also in downtown Vancouver). I was very tight with my money while gambling, due to my current employment status (homeless and unemployed), but still managed to win 30 bucks! It was great to spend some time with my Aunt, who reminds me very much of my late Mom. Of course, no trip to Van is complete without a visit to Stanley Park and also to Granville Island. While in Stanley Park, they had a great little Halloween themed mini train set up which takes you through the forest. We also went to the Stanley Park Aquarium, which was pricey, but they did have some great exhibits including a 4D Sponge Bob Square Pants movie, a dolphin show, a jellyfish exhibit on top of their regular exhibits including beluga whales and penguins. At Granville Island, we had a fantastic lunch (I indulged in a couple of favourites, oysters and a martini!). Vancouver is a beautiful city, but is it very congested with traffic. Can't believe how many condos have gone up here! The waterfront in Vancouver also blows the pants off Toronto's! I think they actually spent time to actually plan the waterfront in Vancouver, imagine that. Alas, we will be leaving Canada tomorrow, bound for Seattle. We will not be back to Canada for the next 10 months (or longer, who knows!).
Tricia: It's been a great few days and also nostalgic! I haven't really spent anytime here since 1997 (yikes) and things sure have changed...While Bart was gambling, I took a drive to my old house where I lived with friends that I have to this day! There was a great park that Bennett played in - I didn't even know there was one there when I lived there! Today we did try and pack in the major sites of Vancouver and did a pretty good job of it. Our lunch on Granville Island was great - Bart was in heaven of course - oysters and booze...his last meal! Bennett's been really happy too and has loved all the outdoor time we have been able to spend here. I'm excited to start heading down the coast although Bart is determined to camp...I'm almost praying for bad weather:) Happy Birthday to my beautiful and dear friend Sarah...I hope you have an amazing day and I KNOW the next year will be the best yet! Enjoy - you deserve it!!! xo
Tricia: It's been a great few days and also nostalgic! I haven't really spent anytime here since 1997 (yikes) and things sure have changed...While Bart was gambling, I took a drive to my old house where I lived with friends that I have to this day! There was a great park that Bennett played in - I didn't even know there was one there when I lived there! Today we did try and pack in the major sites of Vancouver and did a pretty good job of it. Our lunch on Granville Island was great - Bart was in heaven of course - oysters and booze...his last meal! Bennett's been really happy too and has loved all the outdoor time we have been able to spend here. I'm excited to start heading down the coast although Bart is determined to camp...I'm almost praying for bad weather:) Happy Birthday to my beautiful and dear friend Sarah...I hope you have an amazing day and I KNOW the next year will be the best yet! Enjoy - you deserve it!!! xo
October 16, 2013.
In Whistler, British Columbia. After leaving the beautiful Nortan Ranch in Prince George we stayed one night at a Ramada Inn (not bad actually, had an in-room hot tub which Tricia said would be filthy so we didn't use) at 100 Mile House. They call the towns by the mile marker when you go south of Prince George. After our sojourn at the Ramada, we headed down Hwy 99 (was it named after Gretzky?) to Whistler. I have never come to Whistler from the North, only from the Sea to Sky Hwy from Vancouver. Coming from the North was absolutely breathtaking in terms of scenery!! It was probably the most scenic highway that I have ever driven. It still feels remote and un-commercialized (if there is a word). We stopped for lunch in Lillooet (small town between Prince George and Whistler). Crap..the views! Ok, enough about views and scenery, BC is stacked with them. We arrived in Whistler a couple of days ago and checked into our cozy bachelor condo right in the main Village (70 bucks a night - cheap and cheerful complete with queen sized murphy bed). We were a little upset with the condo. We knew it would be small, however, the carpets were stained and stank. Tricia immediately called to complain. The owners sent in a cleaning crew the next day, which helped a bit, but the carpets just need to go. Why do they put carpets in condos? Ever heard of hardwood flooring? Or even linoleum? Carpets just do not work in a tiny condo, especially a rental. Ah well, what are ya gonna do eh? Anyways...we have learned to live with the dirty carpets. Whistler itself is pretty awesome at this time of year (or any time of year for that matter). Yes, it's commercialized and you have your "oh look me with my fancy outfit and $900 stroller and triple decaffeinated, mocha, machiato, half fat, soy latte with extra foam for $10 from Starbucks" people walking around, but it's still a place where millions have come to because it is a special kinda place (had a great day today actually! and yes, I've had a couple, or few glasses of wine right now!). Ah man...where was I? Ok, what did we do around Whistler? It's packed with stuff. We went to a couple of small provincial parks within close proximity. Nairn Falls, great hike (about 1.5K so easy with Bennett) and excellent water fall, also we went to Joffre Lake (which is very easy to walk into the lower Joffre Lake, a glacier fed, aqua blue body of water). Yes, BC is completely stacked with unbelievable scenery at every turn. We also went into Squamish (short 30 minute drive through, again, awesome scenery) and visited the Shannon Falls. Third biggest falls in BC and right off the highway! Now for some other news. Today, we just booked our flights to Australia (arriving Nov 20), into Sydney, and we have reserved a camper van that we will pilot (actually, I'll do all the driving as I'm scared of Tricia's driving) from Sydney to Perth. This will be an exciting adventure, 26 days of living in a motor home. Before we get to Australia, we still have to make our way south to California (we are flying LAX to Sydney), life is tough for us, what can I say. Just hope that the damn US congress vote to get their Federal Employees back to work to re-open their State Parks. Ok, I'm done for the night, but be sure to check out the incredible pictures we have taken over the last few days as well as some videos (will upload them tomorrow).
Tricia: So as Bart said, the drive here was spectacular. Bennett is really getting into music, unfortunately I think his father is having too much of an influence on him. We have exactly 3 songs on a loop...Down on the Corner, Afternoon Delight and Baba O'Reilly. He keeps saying, I want an Afternoon Delight...ha! He also has been really into dancing - with no pants on. OMG - his father is TOTALLY influencing him! When we arrived here, I was less than thrilled. The condo is actually ok, but yes, the carpet has seen better days. The management does not like me - Bart actually hid in the bathroom while I called to complain - chicken! We were planning on only staying 2 or 3 days but as Bart said, we are having such a great time! There is so much to do outside. I'm really excited to have booked our next leg (Australia) - not too sure on the whole camper van thing, but I assured Bart there would be stops at hotels along the way. The only thing that I am a little apprehensive about is Christmas. Bart thinks I am insane, but I am maniacally trying to plan it so I won't be too sad! Well, it's 11pm now, better get Bennett to bed - he is starting to think this is a normal bedtime!
Tricia: So as Bart said, the drive here was spectacular. Bennett is really getting into music, unfortunately I think his father is having too much of an influence on him. We have exactly 3 songs on a loop...Down on the Corner, Afternoon Delight and Baba O'Reilly. He keeps saying, I want an Afternoon Delight...ha! He also has been really into dancing - with no pants on. OMG - his father is TOTALLY influencing him! When we arrived here, I was less than thrilled. The condo is actually ok, but yes, the carpet has seen better days. The management does not like me - Bart actually hid in the bathroom while I called to complain - chicken! We were planning on only staying 2 or 3 days but as Bart said, we are having such a great time! There is so much to do outside. I'm really excited to have booked our next leg (Australia) - not too sure on the whole camper van thing, but I assured Bart there would be stops at hotels along the way. The only thing that I am a little apprehensive about is Christmas. Bart thinks I am insane, but I am maniacally trying to plan it so I won't be too sad! Well, it's 11pm now, better get Bennett to bed - he is starting to think this is a normal bedtime!
October 12, 2013.
In Prince George, British Columbia. The drive from Smithers to Prince George was uneventful, lots of traffic though. Bennett's favourite song, Down on the Corner by CCR. We had it on repeat for about 100 times, he kept requesting it! The last couple of days have been some of the best we've had during our trip. We have been living on a ranch in Central BC just outside of Prince George. The ranch is called the Nortan Ranch and they have several cottages on their 300 acres of land, of which we occupy one. The cottage is rustic, but very cozy complete with 2 separate sleeping areas, a kitchen (this is a total luxury for us compared to staying in hotel rooms), 2 bathrooms and even a BBQ. Although there are no longer any cattle on the ranch (the owner is no longer in the cattle business, but was), there are 2 old horses that graze in the field. The horses pay us regular visits right up to our back porch and eagerly gobble down carrots and apples, which the owners provide for us to feed them. The city of Prince George is a 15 minute drive from the Ranch. The city is medium sized in population, about 65,000 people, but this is the largest city we've been in since Winnipeg. We spent some time at the Exploration Place (kind of like a science center) as well as the Railway and Forestry Museum, which was more like a railway graveyard for old trains. The owner of the Ranch showed me where I could do some fishing in the nearby Chilako River. He let me pilot one of his ATV's down to the river, following him. Today I spent most of the day fishing and caught many fish including a nice rainbow trout. Last night we enjoyed steaks on the barbie (it was so nice to be able to BBQ on our own) and tonight I indulged with some dungenous crab (one of my faves!). Apparently, according to the owner, Stephen Harper (yes the PM) will be staying on this same Ranch during the Canada Games which take place in Prince George in 2015. After tonight, we will have spent 3 nights on the Ranch, and tomorrow we head off towards Whistler where we have booked a condo (really cheap at 70 bucks per night), for 5 nights.
Tricia: The ranch has been incredible and anyone visiting the Prince George area, i would definitely encourage them to stay here! The owners Dagmar and William are lovely...we have felt a little bit of home over the past few days. While Bart was fishing by a calm stream and babbling brook, i was at Exploration Place 2 days in a row with 40 screaming kids. Actually, Bennett had a really good time and enjoyed the company of other kids which he totally needed. I on the other hand, needed a bottle of wine. I'm looking forward to Whistler! Happy Thanksgiving to everyone at home and good luck to Connor on his first tournament at CORE Golf! xo
Tricia: The ranch has been incredible and anyone visiting the Prince George area, i would definitely encourage them to stay here! The owners Dagmar and William are lovely...we have felt a little bit of home over the past few days. While Bart was fishing by a calm stream and babbling brook, i was at Exploration Place 2 days in a row with 40 screaming kids. Actually, Bennett had a really good time and enjoyed the company of other kids which he totally needed. I on the other hand, needed a bottle of wine. I'm looking forward to Whistler! Happy Thanksgiving to everyone at home and good luck to Connor on his first tournament at CORE Golf! xo
October 9, 2013.
In Smithers, British Columbia. After Whitehorse, we double backed to Watson Lake and spent the night. While back in Watson Lake we made sure to leave our mark on the Signpost Forest with a sign of our own. Who knows, maybe we will be back there someday! It has been a lot of driving down Hwy 37 (the Stewart Cassiar Hwy) over the past couple of days to get us down into the interior of BC. During a roadside lunch stop, next to a river, I was able to catch another arctic grayling (a definite highlight for me!!). We stopped for the night at a nice but expensive lodge called the Bell 2 Lodge (at Bell 2 Crossing). This lodge offered only paid internet, which we didn't want to pay for, so we've had no internet or cell phone (again Canada in most places is SOOOO remote!) for the past couple of days. A couple of nice touches for the Lodge were the in-room wood burning stove (unlimited wood was provided) and a really nice outdoor hot-tub that Bennett and I enjoyed. Before arriving (oh! we saw 5 bears while driving!) in Smithers, BC, we stopped in Stewart, BC, and Hyder Alaska. Both towns were pretty much closed up for the season. Interesting that crossing the US Border into Alaska at Hyder, there is no US customs. There is only the Canadian Customs coming back. There is a Glacier just outside of Stewart, but it was actually not that impressive. More impressive is the drive into Stewart, a valley surrounded by giant mountains, high mountain water falls and lush greenery. I have actually been into Hyder, Alaska many many years ago while tree planting. They have a bar there that sells 150 proof Everclear (awful booze). After consuming a shot of the liquid, you are then "hyderized". Unfortunately, the bar, called the Glacier Inn, was closed. That's ok, because I was already "hiderized" during my first visit anyways. We decided to forego Prince Rupert and instead are now slowly making our way down to Whistler, BC, where we have rented a small condo for 5 days. It will be nice to settle in to a place and not have to pack our car up the next day. I've been to Whistler several times in the past, but never during the non-ski season. I'm sure (I hope) there will still be lots of things to do there when skiing is not available.
Tricia: It has been a LOT of driving lately...Bennett, for the most part, has been good. But when he is bad - he is AWFUL! His vocabulary continues to expand (and not for the better) and my Dad isn't even around to blame! The Bell 2 Lodge that we stayed at was really nice but super expensive. Bart was dying of embarrassment because i asked for a different room because I didn't like the look of the sheets...this coming from someone who has basically slept in a tent for the majority of September! As Bart said, the drive to Smithers was really pretty and seeing 5 bears was amazing. Unfortunately because we rely on the internet to plan our days etc., yesterday was a bit of a gongshow. We pretty much showed up in Smithers and prayed for the best. It all worked out.
Tricia: It has been a LOT of driving lately...Bennett, for the most part, has been good. But when he is bad - he is AWFUL! His vocabulary continues to expand (and not for the better) and my Dad isn't even around to blame! The Bell 2 Lodge that we stayed at was really nice but super expensive. Bart was dying of embarrassment because i asked for a different room because I didn't like the look of the sheets...this coming from someone who has basically slept in a tent for the majority of September! As Bart said, the drive to Smithers was really pretty and seeing 5 bears was amazing. Unfortunately because we rely on the internet to plan our days etc., yesterday was a bit of a gongshow. We pretty much showed up in Smithers and prayed for the best. It all worked out.
October 5, 2013.
In Whitehorse, Yukon Territory. It's about a five hour drive from Watson Lake to Whitehorse. Watson Lake itself is a bit of a dump but has a interesting area called the Signpost Forest. Basically it's a forest of signs put up by people who have come into the town. We will be putting up a sign of our own when we drive back through Watson Lake in a couple of days. The Hotel we stayed in was actually pretty good, but expensive, called "A Nice Hotel". The room was spotless and Tricia approved! We have to double back there in order to take Hwy 37 south to Prince Rupert, BC. The drive to Whitehorse was very picturesque. Snow capped mountains with evergreen foothills most of the way. Unfortunately, we didn't spy any wildlife along the way, but there has to be lots of animals out there given the remoteness of the Alaskan Highway. The road was very well paved and had a nice 100KM speed limit. I caught my first fish in the Yukon! An Arctic Grayling. This was caught at the Rancheria Falls which is a small park on the way to Whitehorse. We checked into a great hotel called the SKKY Hotel which is directly across from the Whitehorse Airport. Not a lot of planes coming in and out, unlike Pearson in Toronto. We are spending 2 days here. Our first day was actually spent around Whitehorse. First stop was to the Miles Canyon which is a short driving distance from downtown Whitehorse. The canyon was carved by the Yukon river and had a great hiking trail and a suspension bridge which is part of the trail. We then drove to a nearby town called Carcross which is quite sleepy this time of year (probably busy in the summer). The town was quaint but offered some interesting things to see such as a desert (billed as the smallest desert in the world). Very interesting to be in a desert with giant snow capped mountains in the background, quite a beautiful contrast. There was also an aqua blue lake called the Emerald Lake. Carcross also had a beach called Bennett Beach, so we had to go there as well! All in all, the Yukon has been an excellent adventure so far, we think the drive was well worth it. Not many Canadians, especially from Toronto, get up here to enjoy a very unique part of the Country. On our way back to Watson Lake tomorrow, then a very long drive down to Prince Rupert which is right on the coast in BC. It will probably take us a few days to get down there. Accommodation along the way is very slim, we might have to camp out in the cold! Tricia will not be happy about that. Ah well! We had actually wanted to go to Juneau, Alaska, from Whitehorse, however, going to Juneau involves a ferry ride but unfortunately at this time of year ferry rides are infrequent. The ferry ride out of Juneau down to Prince Rupert operates only once per week and when we checked, the next couple of ferries are booked solid. Juneau cannot be accessed by road, ferry or airplanes only! I guess Alaska was not in the cards for us during this trip.
Tricia: So I actually like it up here...however, it is a bloody fortune! I understand why but it would be hard to travel for a long period of time. Today was great and we saw a lot of different scenery in one day. We also have figured out that Bennett is a kid that absolutely needs to be outside at least 2 hours a day. If he is not, he is an animal. We knew that before we left but its' not as if you can let him run alongside the car in the Yukon - Welland, maybe, but it's cold up here and there are bears. I have also been doing "homework" with him. I have to say, a primary teacher I am not. Crafts are just not my thing. I tried to buy some craft supplies at the dollar store to do different activities, but I am now looking at a bunch of pipe cleaners wondering what the hell people do with pipecleaners. I ended up twisting it around Bennett's wrist and making a bracelet. Bennett just looked at me in disgust and I couldn't blame him. Martha Stewart I am not, Margaret Meek, I need your help! If I had to homeschool him, he would definitely end up as a Greeter at Walmart. My mum is probably disgusted right now. Anyway aside from the child rearing, things are pretty good! As Bart said, we head to Prince Rupert tomorrow and i am dreading it. The accomodations are supposed to be horrid - we head to a place called Dease Lake and someone here referred to it as disease lake. I definitely may be sleeping in the car!
Tricia: So I actually like it up here...however, it is a bloody fortune! I understand why but it would be hard to travel for a long period of time. Today was great and we saw a lot of different scenery in one day. We also have figured out that Bennett is a kid that absolutely needs to be outside at least 2 hours a day. If he is not, he is an animal. We knew that before we left but its' not as if you can let him run alongside the car in the Yukon - Welland, maybe, but it's cold up here and there are bears. I have also been doing "homework" with him. I have to say, a primary teacher I am not. Crafts are just not my thing. I tried to buy some craft supplies at the dollar store to do different activities, but I am now looking at a bunch of pipe cleaners wondering what the hell people do with pipecleaners. I ended up twisting it around Bennett's wrist and making a bracelet. Bennett just looked at me in disgust and I couldn't blame him. Martha Stewart I am not, Margaret Meek, I need your help! If I had to homeschool him, he would definitely end up as a Greeter at Walmart. My mum is probably disgusted right now. Anyway aside from the child rearing, things are pretty good! As Bart said, we head to Prince Rupert tomorrow and i am dreading it. The accomodations are supposed to be horrid - we head to a place called Dease Lake and someone here referred to it as disease lake. I definitely may be sleeping in the car!
October 3, 2013.
In Watson Lake, Yukon Territory. We made it to the Yukon! The roads were actually very good getting here. The Alaskan Highway is extremely well looked after (at least so far up to this point). After spending the night in Fort Nelson, BC (nothing really special there although the Lakview Inn was quite good), we spent the last 2 days at Muncho Lake in Northern BC. This part of the Country is absolutely unbelievable. So remote and so beautiful. We have seen wild Buffalo, mountain Goats, Elk and Moose. There are high white capped mountains and clear mountain streams and even a hot spring. The accommodation at Muncho Lake, the Northern Rockies Lodge, was outstanding. They offer excellent amenities as well as great rooms. Probably the high point of the entire trip so far was spending a few hours at the Liard Hot Springs. The water temperature was around 100F. This time of year there are very few people around so we basically had the hot springs to ourselves. We took some amazing videos and pictures, I will say no more as these will speak volumes of our experiences.
Tricia: This has definitely been the best part of the trip! The Northern Rockies Lodge was amazing. It was run by a Swiss couple - so it's got to be clean! We overlooked Lake Muncho which was crystal clear. Bennett loved "fishing" - basically throwing rocks at the exact spot where Bart was trying to fish. The hotsprings were amazing. It was hard getting Bennett in them because they smelled like Sulphur and he thought they were dirty...that's my boy! But they were breathtaking. We spent a lot of time there and although we smelled disgusting, we discovered a little beach area for Bart to do more fishing and us to hang out. We saw a TONNE of animals which were incredible and i was REALLY glad we didn't see any bear. Off to Whitehorse tomorrow!
Tricia: This has definitely been the best part of the trip! The Northern Rockies Lodge was amazing. It was run by a Swiss couple - so it's got to be clean! We overlooked Lake Muncho which was crystal clear. Bennett loved "fishing" - basically throwing rocks at the exact spot where Bart was trying to fish. The hotsprings were amazing. It was hard getting Bennett in them because they smelled like Sulphur and he thought they were dirty...that's my boy! But they were breathtaking. We spent a lot of time there and although we smelled disgusting, we discovered a little beach area for Bart to do more fishing and us to hang out. We saw a TONNE of animals which were incredible and i was REALLY glad we didn't see any bear. Off to Whitehorse tomorrow!
October 1, 2013.
In Fort Nelson, BC. While in Edmonton, we had to drop by the West Edmonton Mall. They have packed a tonne of stuff in that Mall! Got some good videos while there. After leaving Edmonton, we headed north to Grande Prairie, Alberta. Word of warning, avoid Super 8 Motels whenever possible, at least the one in Grande Prairie. It was a crapper. Totally needs to be gutted and revamped. Tricia actually refused to shower in the hotel cause it was that gross. Ah well...when traveling, you're going to get some dumps along the way, it's unavoidable. Unfortunately, we had booked this particular hotel via Hotwire, so we couldn't get out of it. Anyways, enough ranting about Super 8's. The drive from Edmonton to Grand Prairie is not overly inspiring, quite flat and not much to see. A major problem with remote areas in Canada is that sometimes you need to go through major centers in order to get any accommodation and Grand Prairie is kind of on the way to our main destination in the North, Whitehorse. Grande Prairie is a fair sized city by Canadian standards. We did enjoy a nice meal at the Keg. The drive to Fort Nelson, in northern British Columbia was long but a little more interesting. The trees along the way seem to be a mix of evergreen and birch. This offers some nice colours of dark green and yellow foliage in the fall time. There are no giant snow capped mountains, more like rolling hills, kind of like northern Ontario. An unexpected highlight was lunch at the Shepherds Inn at mile 72 on the Alaskan Highway. Prices in northern Alberta and BC are high, example, a box of Raisin Bran cereal, 9 bucks. We are coming to the harsh realization that most of Canada is extremely sparse, sure there are some great views, but most of these views can only be enjoyed from the road (and there aren't many roads either) as accommodation is very, very limited. A plane would be nice! Going through remote areas in the summer might be better as you can at least pitch a tent somewhere, but this time of year is hard to camp due to the near zero temperatures during the nighttime. We are heading to a supposedly beautiful place tomorrow at Muncho Lake in northern BC. There are some hot springs there and the area looks to be surrounded by mountains. Let's see how that goes!
Tricia: Ok so Edmonton was good. Although it was a very quick visit (and mostly to the mall, sadly) - B had so much fun at the waterpark and amusement park. It was a very quick trip and we headed to Grande Prairie. Honestly, i think i am scarred from it. The hotel we stayed at was DISGUSTING. It was my fault, i admit. I made a booking error through Hotwire and we couldn't get out of it. However, i would rather sleep on the concrete in the parking lot with all the cigarette butts than have to stay at that hotel again. I wouldn't let Bennett take his shoes off - he was very confused. YUCK. Grande Prairie is a weird place. It is undergoing so much growth, it has buildings and hotels and restaurants popping up everywhere. It is like a GIANT strip mall in the middle of nowhere. I was glad to leave. We drove to Fort Nelson, which was nice...as Bart said, we are quickly realizing that when people said where we were going was remote, they weren't kidding. There is not a lot along the way! BUT the experience has been worth it. Bennett has been developing new words along the way, and they aren't all good. Not quite sure who has been teaching him all the colourful language but it sounds like he has been hanging out with drunken sailors and strip bars right now! It is insane - Bart and I just keep looking at each other and ignoring it while trying not to laugh! Any advice on this subject would be welcome...
Tricia: Ok so Edmonton was good. Although it was a very quick visit (and mostly to the mall, sadly) - B had so much fun at the waterpark and amusement park. It was a very quick trip and we headed to Grande Prairie. Honestly, i think i am scarred from it. The hotel we stayed at was DISGUSTING. It was my fault, i admit. I made a booking error through Hotwire and we couldn't get out of it. However, i would rather sleep on the concrete in the parking lot with all the cigarette butts than have to stay at that hotel again. I wouldn't let Bennett take his shoes off - he was very confused. YUCK. Grande Prairie is a weird place. It is undergoing so much growth, it has buildings and hotels and restaurants popping up everywhere. It is like a GIANT strip mall in the middle of nowhere. I was glad to leave. We drove to Fort Nelson, which was nice...as Bart said, we are quickly realizing that when people said where we were going was remote, they weren't kidding. There is not a lot along the way! BUT the experience has been worth it. Bennett has been developing new words along the way, and they aren't all good. Not quite sure who has been teaching him all the colourful language but it sounds like he has been hanging out with drunken sailors and strip bars right now! It is insane - Bart and I just keep looking at each other and ignoring it while trying not to laugh! Any advice on this subject would be welcome...
September 29, 2013.
In Edmonton, Alberta. We entered into Alberta from a very remote location in the middle of Montana called the Del Bonita Border Crossing. I was a little nervous as this was literally the middle of nowhere! The Border Guard locked us and our car up in a garage while they questioned us and examined our documents. After about 15 minutes the Guard said "Welcome to Wild Rose Country!", we made it through! Upon entering Alberta, we headed directly into Calgary and stayed with my Sister Meghan and her Husband Rob for a few days. It was so nice to spend a few days in one place and Meghan, Rob (and their little boy Oban) were extremely hospitable (as seen by the posted pictures and videos). We enjoyed Calgary and the surrounding area by visiting Fort Calgary (disappointing place actually and not worth the money) as well as the Tyrrell Dinosaur Museum in Drumheller, which is a couple hours outside of Calgary. The Museum was fantastic! Alberta is well known for it's dinosaurs and fossils. As an added bonus, the Museum was free! Some special "cultural" day in Alberta, good timing for us. My really good friend John Ashby also met us at Meg and Rob's place and stayed the night. Rob treated me with excellent scotch on every night. Thanks Rob! After Calgary, we drove up to Edmonton, where we currently are now, and spent some time at the West Edmonton Mall. It's quite a place and even has an indoor Water Park complete with giant wave pool. Tricia and Bennett enjoyed that (well....at least Bennett did). We have now planned our voyage up to Whitehorse, Yukon. It's quite a journey from Edmonton, about a 28 hour drive. We will split this drive up into several days with stops in Grand Prairie, Fort Nelson and Lake Watson. This is should be quite a trip getting up to the Yukon. Stay tuned for pics and videos from this adventure and please Blog us advice if you have ever made the journey!
Tricia: Calgary was a nice break for us...staying with Meg, Rob and Nox (Oban) was a welcome piece of home. They were such kind hosts and we had a great time. I hadn't been to Calgary in about 15 years and it sure has changed...I ended up seeing Heather Wood (Heid) - an old friend from Options (15 years ago!) It was awesome seeing her and she really hasn't changed a bit. Catching up with John was great as well and we are trying to convince him to join us along the way as he works for Air Canada and can fly out to meet us...so far I think we have swayed him to meet us in Whistler in October. Either that or he is just being polite.We keep trying to have people join our convoy...now that Bart's "king size bed" line doesn't really work! Seriously we would LOVE to see people along the way! Today we start going North...REALLY North...stay tuned for my mood. It could go either way at this point!
Tricia: Calgary was a nice break for us...staying with Meg, Rob and Nox (Oban) was a welcome piece of home. They were such kind hosts and we had a great time. I hadn't been to Calgary in about 15 years and it sure has changed...I ended up seeing Heather Wood (Heid) - an old friend from Options (15 years ago!) It was awesome seeing her and she really hasn't changed a bit. Catching up with John was great as well and we are trying to convince him to join us along the way as he works for Air Canada and can fly out to meet us...so far I think we have swayed him to meet us in Whistler in October. Either that or he is just being polite.We keep trying to have people join our convoy...now that Bart's "king size bed" line doesn't really work! Seriously we would LOVE to see people along the way! Today we start going North...REALLY North...stay tuned for my mood. It could go either way at this point!
September 25, 2013.
In Calgary, Alberta. We spent the last couple of days in Glacier National Park, Montana. I would say that Montana is the State that just keeps on giving. If you like the outdoors, this is the place to be. We captured some great pictures and videos. We rented a cabin just outside the Park at a place called the General Store. The cabin was excellent! The cabin was a welcomed change from car camping as it offered much more luxury. The owner and host, Chuck was very friendly. The Park itself is spectacular. The mountains are not has high as in places like Banff, however, the road access offers an abundant amount of stopping points in order to take in the views. The drive up to Logans Pass was scary! Tricia had a meltdown many times because of the drop-offs. During a hike into Avalanche Lake, we learned our limits. This was a 4 mile round trip. Bennett was great for the first mile and a half walking fine on his own. The remaining 2.5 miles was spent with him on our backs, carrying him. NOT FUN! We met a very nice couple from Louisiana, Joseph and Gale while on the hike. We later met them again at dinner. Although the weather was not great during our adventures within the Park, we still enjoyed our time. We are now in Calgary with my sister Meghan and husband Rob who have graciously welcomed us into their home for the next few days. We will spend a few days here in Calgary before heading off onto a challenging road trip up to Whitehorse, Yukon.
Tricia: Montana was amazing...we really loved it and the scenery is so vast and different throughout the state. The cabin we stayed in was so nice and CLEAN! I was so happy. As for our hike...Bennett was definitely not the only one who had a meltdown...Bart (yes, mr laid back himself) and I had a total domestic (simply out of frustration of the situation). Bart threw his fishing rod into the woods! Then we piggy backed Bennett all the way back. That was not fun at all! However, looking back it was so FUNNY! I don't think I have EVER seen Bart that mad! HA! The restaurant we went to was great....as Bart mentioned we met a great couple from Louisiana who had been at the park at the same time as us (they MIGHT have heard Bart and I conversing loudly too!). After having a great chat with them (they had done a lot of traveling), they came by and paid for our dinner! It was their blessing to us for the rest of our journey...it was so unexpected, surprising and kind! We have decided that we are going to take the money and "pay it forward" to someone along our journey. We are now in Calgary and having such a great time with Meg, Rob and Nox...
Tricia: Montana was amazing...we really loved it and the scenery is so vast and different throughout the state. The cabin we stayed in was so nice and CLEAN! I was so happy. As for our hike...Bennett was definitely not the only one who had a meltdown...Bart (yes, mr laid back himself) and I had a total domestic (simply out of frustration of the situation). Bart threw his fishing rod into the woods! Then we piggy backed Bennett all the way back. That was not fun at all! However, looking back it was so FUNNY! I don't think I have EVER seen Bart that mad! HA! The restaurant we went to was great....as Bart mentioned we met a great couple from Louisiana who had been at the park at the same time as us (they MIGHT have heard Bart and I conversing loudly too!). After having a great chat with them (they had done a lot of traveling), they came by and paid for our dinner! It was their blessing to us for the rest of our journey...it was so unexpected, surprising and kind! We have decided that we are going to take the money and "pay it forward" to someone along our journey. We are now in Calgary and having such a great time with Meg, Rob and Nox...
September 22, 2013.
In Havre, Montana. Montana is amazing!! Lake Metagoshe was a bit of a bust. The weather was not great and we went on a hike but the lake was a bit swampi. We stayed at a pretty old an rundown resort called the Twin Oaks while at Lake Metagoshe. We then drove towards Minot, North Dakota. Minot is...well ok. Not much to be said, although we did stay at a nice Marriott hotel there! It seems there is a oil boom going on in North Dakota as we spied many oil drills and lots of temporary housing facilities for workers. We were extremely happy with Montana. Found an INCREDIBLE camping spot in Fort Peck, Montana and it was free to stay there. The landscape in Montana is fantastic. From the east, it is quite flat and very open. When heading westward, hills start to appear. It's no wonder they call Montana Big Sky country as the horizon goes on forever, often unobstructed by buildings or anything man-made. On our way to Havre, Montana, we stopped in at the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum in Malta, Montana. Quite a good little museum for kids and the hostess, Dixie, was very friendly. Next stop is the Glacier National Park!
Tricia: I hate to admit it but i LOVED camping yesterday...Fort Peck was amazing. Our campspot was right on the water. It was probably the best day so far! We had a slow start to the day but headed towards the Glacier National Park where we have booked a cabin for 2 days starting tomorrow. I can't wait! Thank GOD we are not camping...they have closed the park to campers because there have been too many bears. That would have been far too rugged for this kid. I have to say that i REALLY like Montana. It is so vast and different.
Tricia: I hate to admit it but i LOVED camping yesterday...Fort Peck was amazing. Our campspot was right on the water. It was probably the best day so far! We had a slow start to the day but headed towards the Glacier National Park where we have booked a cabin for 2 days starting tomorrow. I can't wait! Thank GOD we are not camping...they have closed the park to campers because there have been too many bears. That would have been far too rugged for this kid. I have to say that i REALLY like Montana. It is so vast and different.
September 20, 2013.
In Lake Metigoshe, North Dakota. Well, it's unfortunate to say, but good riddance to Manitoba. The best thing about Manitoba seemed to be the high speed limits (100KM) which enables you to get the heck out, fast. Winnipeg itself wasn't too bad, a fair sized city with lots amenities, however, you drive out of the city and most things seemed to be closed or non existent (in terms of accommodations or things to do). Manitoba left us with one final blow, a cracked windscreen as we were getting close to the North Dakota border.
Tricia: I hate to say it, but I am okay never going back to Manitoba..but it is definitely part of the ride. Lake Metigoshe in ND was a nice area but we decided to start driving West...
Tricia: I hate to say it, but I am okay never going back to Manitoba..but it is definitely part of the ride. Lake Metigoshe in ND was a nice area but we decided to start driving West...
September 19, 2013.
In Winnipeg, Manitoba. Not a great day today. We drove from Grand Forks, North Dakota all the way to the Hecla Provincial Park on Lake Winnipeg expecting to be able to camp. We didn't realize that Manitoba closes most of their Provincial Parks after the Labour Day weekend. What a bust! Why?? We tried to get into a private park but they were closed as well. Too bad because it was a nice warm day, in the mid 20's C. We are totally stunned that Lake Winnipeg didn't have more to offer in terms of accommodations as it is a beautiful Lake (similar in size to Lake Ontario) and it is relatively close to the main city in Manitoba (Winnipeg). We ended up having to double back all the way back down to Winnipeg. We are currently at a Marriot Hotel. The scenery while driving was pretty much as expected , very flat and lots of farmland. We are now re-thinking our trip a little. Originally, we intended on driving to Flin Flon Manitoba, which is about 9 hours north of Winnipeg. However, given that no camping will be available and accommodations along the way are very sparse, we are thinking of driving westward through the northern US in North Dakota and Montana, and then going back up to Calgary. We are very excited about seeing my sister Meghan, Rob and Oban in Calgary.
Tricia: Okay - Bart said that WE didn't realize the parks were closed - no, it was him. He was responsible for researching the whole camping thing...However, Hecla was a pretty cool place and I think if anything had been open, it would have been great. It ended up being a total driving day and poor Bart did all of it. By the time we reached the Marriott, he needed a nice glass of wine. I took Bennett to the pool where he went down a waterslide over 25 times. It totally tired him out.
Tricia: Okay - Bart said that WE didn't realize the parks were closed - no, it was him. He was responsible for researching the whole camping thing...However, Hecla was a pretty cool place and I think if anything had been open, it would have been great. It ended up being a total driving day and poor Bart did all of it. By the time we reached the Marriott, he needed a nice glass of wine. I took Bennett to the pool where he went down a waterslide over 25 times. It totally tired him out.
September 18, 2013.
In Grand Forks, North Dakota, USA. Our stay in Duluth was good and bad. First off, it's a great city. Built on rolling hills on the western shore of Lake Superior. The vistas out onto the lake are fantastic. The Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark was great for Bennett (the waterpark part), however, the accommodations could use a major overhaul and the restaurant there is pathetic. But...it was only 66 bucks a night after all! The Train Museum in Duluth was excellent and they gave us the AARP discount (for seniors), not because we look that old, but she gave it to us anyways. We had probably the worst meal we've EVER eaten at Little Angie's Cantina And Grill in downtown Duluth. We skipped out on paying as we didn't eat the food, it was that bad. Park Point is a park that jets out from the downtown of Duluth right into the Lake. What a fantastic area to visit, amazing beach and a beautiful view back into the city. The drive from Duluth into Grand Forks is nothing spectacular, seems we are getting into the flats of prairie land now. An interesting place to stay between Duluth and Grand Forks is Bemidji, Minnesota. Lots of lakes around there and fishing resorts. The weather was not nice for us though, so we drove through. We did try to get into a place called Joe's Lodge, however, they turned us away (something about they don't rent out for just one night...whatever, they turned down our cash!). Next we are on our way north to Winnipeg, back into good old Canada.
Tricia - The Edgewater was disgusting! However, their water park was amazing and B loved it. I just wouldn't let him touch anything in the hotel room...my psychoses are totally starting to come out and I think Bart is scared. I REALLY liked Duluth though. The people were great, the views were amazing and there is a lot of trails and parks. The train museum was awesome and i am not even really into trains...Bennett didn't want to leave and we had to carry him out crying! All in all, Duluth had a lot to do and we really had a great time!
Tricia - The Edgewater was disgusting! However, their water park was amazing and B loved it. I just wouldn't let him touch anything in the hotel room...my psychoses are totally starting to come out and I think Bart is scared. I REALLY liked Duluth though. The people were great, the views were amazing and there is a lot of trails and parks. The train museum was awesome and i am not even really into trains...Bennett didn't want to leave and we had to carry him out crying! All in all, Duluth had a lot to do and we really had a great time!
September 15, 2013.
In Duluth, Minnesota, USA. Before arriving in Duluth, we spent an extra day in Sault Sainte Marie which was highlighted by a trip to the Tree House Children's Centre (6 bucks for unlimited play for Bennett including a snack and coffee for us plus FREE hotdogs at the Leon's customer appreciation day next door!) where Bennett was the only kid there but our host, Herb, gave suggestions on things we could do. We went to the Bushplane Museum and then for a hike at Kinsmen Park (great waterfall there). We then drove out the Marquette, Michigan area (stopped at the Oswald Bear Ranch along the way) where we camped the night at Gitche Gumee Campground (it rained yet again during the night but the tent held up) which was right on the banks of Lake Superior. The car battery died on us while at the campsite, but a friendly neighbour gave us a jump. A rather long drive to Duluthe from Marquette (quite a boring drive except we did see a live Bald Eagle - couldn't quite get its picture though) brought us to the Edgewater Hotel and Waterpark. This place is fantastic! 66 bucks a night also includes free breakfast and passes to the Waterpark. We have checked in for a 2 night stay.
It's Tricia: Basically, (no offence to anyone from Sault St. Marie) but that was probably our last visit. The people we met were great and Bart was very impressed to have "pulled a Stu" with all the free things that we did! (we also thought Stu would appreciate the Plane Museum stop)...I think we probably saw the major sights! Last night camping was (I pray) one of the last...i know Bart (and Bennett) love it but it is so COLD at night! We drove through upstate Wisconsin and it was great! Bart is not loving my planning capabilities and feels that we need to see how it goes...We'll see what tomorrow brings! We are having such a great time however and hope it continues!
It's Tricia: Basically, (no offence to anyone from Sault St. Marie) but that was probably our last visit. The people we met were great and Bart was very impressed to have "pulled a Stu" with all the free things that we did! (we also thought Stu would appreciate the Plane Museum stop)...I think we probably saw the major sights! Last night camping was (I pray) one of the last...i know Bart (and Bennett) love it but it is so COLD at night! We drove through upstate Wisconsin and it was great! Bart is not loving my planning capabilities and feels that we need to see how it goes...We'll see what tomorrow brings! We are having such a great time however and hope it continues!
September 12, 2013.
In Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario. After spending 3 nights camping (1 in Tobermory and 2 on Manitoulin Island), we are enjoying the luxuries of hotel accomodation. We camped at the Lands End Park in Tobermory, that was our very first experience with tent camping, not a bad place. 2 nights were spent on Manitoulin Island at the Providence Bay Tent & Trailor Park, which was excellent! The Island is beautiful and we spent time on the beach and did hiking, got some nice photos. On all 3 nights of camping, it rained, but our tent held up very well, no leaks! Bennett was driving us pretty crazy, not falling asleep until around 11pm. I did a little fishing as well and yielded one small mouth bass. Anyways, we are very happy to spend some time in a hotel for now. We plan to spend a couple of days in Sault Sainte Marie before heading out towards Duluth, Minnesota.
Tricia says: Ok it didn't rain, it was a torrential downpour with lightning AND i thought an animal was coming in the tent (the fly on the tent had come loose). However, I was pretty calm (surprisingly). The thing that I cannot get used to about camping is the lack of clean bathrooms - i had to drive a LONG way to the nearest bathroom...seriously, i have major issues! Bennett has been really good considering he is now living like a gypsy...of course he is not going to go to bed at 8:30 (Bart!). He has LOVED the beaches and hasn't wanted to leave them. He runs right in, regardless of how cold it is and i get to go in too (yeah!!!)...He's had a few meltdowns but pretty normal. Don't worry Mum and Dad, he hasn't run off yet and yes, i have a leash for him!
Tricia says: Ok it didn't rain, it was a torrential downpour with lightning AND i thought an animal was coming in the tent (the fly on the tent had come loose). However, I was pretty calm (surprisingly). The thing that I cannot get used to about camping is the lack of clean bathrooms - i had to drive a LONG way to the nearest bathroom...seriously, i have major issues! Bennett has been really good considering he is now living like a gypsy...of course he is not going to go to bed at 8:30 (Bart!). He has LOVED the beaches and hasn't wanted to leave them. He runs right in, regardless of how cold it is and i get to go in too (yeah!!!)...He's had a few meltdowns but pretty normal. Don't worry Mum and Dad, he hasn't run off yet and yes, i have a leash for him!
September 9, 2013.
Heading to Tobermory, Ontario. This is the very start our journey! We hope to be able to camp, but the nights seem quite chilly. After Tobermory, we are going to take the ferry over to Manitoulin Island and camp for a couple of nights. Basically, we will be driving Westbound and will end up in Sault Sainte Marie in about a week. Oh man....we are excited, but sad after saying farewell to Tricia's parents Ken & Margaret and my folks Ivan and Sharron. For North America, our main destinations are Whitehorse, Yukon, and then down to Los Angeles, California before heading overseas to Thailand in December. Adventure is awaiting!