Canoeing in the wilds of Canada

Day 1-Going on a Moose Hunt.

After driving way North into the Canadian tundra and then building our canoes, we eventually found the lake and the mosquitoes. Our mission was to lose the mosquitoes, find the moose (and campsites) and avoid any bear hugs. The weather at this moment in time was fairly good but the weight of my rucksack was disappointing but at least I had the food and some wine.

Canoeing in perfect tranquility.







Canoeing Canadian style. On the shorter portages the canoes were carried at the same time (not by me but my yak -Gilbert).













Campsite for the 1st night. By now the wind had increased big time and the temp had dropped but at least the mossies had disappeared. Morning came around far too quickly with the sound of rain hitting the tent and the prospect of a tough day ahead.

Happy Birthday Mab!


We had a lovely day out at the Niagra butterfly conservatory followed by a lobster dinner. Andrew, Katrina and baby Alexander joined us. Things went remarkably well considering we had four babies in the house!

Family photos

Today we had a photo shoot on the family baby blanket. It's not easy getting three tired babies to smile all at the same time. Mab was the official photographer, Uncle Gilbert was playing nursery rhymes on the guitar while I sang along and, Auntie Jill dangled toys over the camera. The results were not bad!

Fun in the sun

Yesterday we had a lovely day in the sunshine - it was the second really warm day since we have been here.

The babies played in their playpen and went for a walk along the lakeshore. James had so much fun he couldn't sleep last night, which meant that neither could we. After getting up about a dozen times in the night, Mummy gave in and let James stay in the big bed. Sadly for Daddy, this meant he was relegated to the floor.

Three ladies and three babies

The boys went camping in Algonquin park leaving the ladies at home with the babies. It was a tough few days for Jacob who had sore gums and wanted the whole street to know about it.

Here is a taster of the boys' adventure - more piccies to follow when we return!

We're in Canada!

We finally arrived after an exhausting 8 hour flight. James was very good for 7 hours, but was over tired by the end as he found it very hard to sleep on the plane. So did all the other passengers.

The three babies have had lots of fun playing together. Jacob and Elizabeth have enjoyed showing James their vast array of toys.

The two boys have a giggle together.

James has a cuddle with Auntie Jill.

..and Lizzie has a nice cuddle with Auntie Lou.

James has a go on Lizzie's excer-saucer but these toys are all a bit overwhelming - the safest thing to do seems to be to keep your hands by your sides!

Lizzie gives a demonstra tion and James is very attentive

James has learned many things from his cousins since we have arrived. He has rolled onto his back from his stomach, and has discovered what fun he can have with his feet!

Here he is playing in the Jolly Jumper - he needs a bit more practice at bending his knees!

Today we had a grand day out in Bronte park. Jacob and Lizzie are sporting their new sun hats from Nanna and Grandpops!

What a cute baby!

Tracy Spickernell sent us this gorgeous photo of James taken at Elisha's birthday party. Thanks Wac, you have captured him beautifully!

It's summertime!

Hurray - the sun is out and its time to play! James enjoyed playing in his little gym tent in the garden this morning. Faithful guard dog Maisie kept watch.

The Verdict

The Bench of Staveley has been sitting for the last 10 days (drinking tea and eating a variety of cakes)

Unfortunately, no verdict has been reached on the subject of your toilet seat and we had arranged for your entire toilet to be removed for testing.

Unfortunately, the spy that they sent us to carry out this removal is proving to be utterly useless as he can't walk yet! Therefore, the bench has decreed that you may only keep the current seat and use it with pride. No leave to appeal has been granted.

Judges, Peter, Yvonne, Jonathan and Hannah Burgess