Dylan in Ottawa

Our nephew, Dylan, is attending University of Ottawa, and was thrilled to be invited to the Conservative Party Christmas Party as a result of his volunteer work.  Special moment for him.

Sam in Oxford

Our nephew, Sam, is studying at Oxford University, working towards his Master of Philosophy in International Relations, and occasionally sends us photos, much to our delight.

The first photo below is from October 19, 2013 and is of Sam just as he was to leave for the "matriculation" ceremony for his college, Lady Margaret Hall (a "selfie" on his ipad).

 

Matriculation is the ceremony that marks formal admission to the University as a student and is officiated by the Vice-President of the University, among others.  He was required to wear the appropriate gown for his college and a mortar board or soft-cap. He looks so happy!

 

Then, on November 27, 2013, Sam rowed with the LMH team in the Christ Church Regatta, which is an annual rowing tournament in Oxford on the Isis for novice rowers from the various colleges at Oxford University. Sam said they won their first race, several lengths ahead of their nearest competitor - lot's of fun.  Here are some pictures he sent the family:

 

 

 

 

Thanks for sending these Sam!

Great "English Style" Tea - Fundraiser

On October 16, Bonnie and I attended the "Dayson Tea" given by the Louis Brier Hospital Auxiliary, remembering Esther Dayson, in support of its fundraising efforts. Great to see so many women from the community there in support of this event.

Delicious "English Style" tea, with party sandwiches, sweets and fruit.  They also had a raffle (I won the box of Purdy's chocolates) and a marketplace for women's accessories.  I loved looking at the beautifully crafted sandwich, fruit and dessert platters prepared by the staff - very talented staff.  Here are some examples:

Note the "bouquet" made out of radishes!

 

A very lovely afternoon; will definitely go again next year.

 

Remembering Mom

Lots of thoughts of my mother at this time - it is the 5th anniversary of her death on October 29. Such a lovely lady - always loved and remembered.

Alaska Cruise Day 6: Cruising & Ketchican

Spent a bit of time in Ketchican:

And then we started cruising back towards Vancouver.  Alert Bay Area:

Our last evening, photos taken from and in the dining room:

 

And so another vacation filled with memories!

Alaska Cruise Day 5: Cruising Glacier Bay

Today was the highlight of the cruise, cruising, and anchoring in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska.  We were very fortunate with beautiful weather, the park ranger who joined us on board said she had never seen such wonderful weather.  Here are some of the highlights:

 

A few shots of Margerie Glacier:

 

 

 

(Above picture taken with "Vivid" setting)

 

 

 

We left the Margerie glacier area and cruised through Glacier Bay, admiring the spectacular beauty.

 

 

 

 

Princess Ship in the background

 

An absolutely glorious day!

 

Alaska Cruise Day 4: Skagway, Alaska

Headed towards Skagway.  In the morning, Bonnie and I enjoyed walked around the deck, while Neil enjoyed the deck chairs!

In Skagway, we browsed through the many stores - lots and lots of tourist stores that you see in every port:  souvenirs, jewellery, etc.  Did visit one interesting museum.  Again, it was very hot and sunny.

 

 

Alaska Cruise Day 3: Juneau

Our first port day was in Juneau, capital of Alaska.  We had been there before so didn't spend much time on shore.  It was extremely hot and sunny, had to stay out of the sun. Here we are in the dining room for dinner, sitting by a window, and seeing the lovely sunset.

 

 

Alaska Cruise Day 2: Cruising the Inside Passage

We had absolutely wonderful weather on this cruise.  Very much enjoyed our first full day at sea when we cruised up  the Inside Passage, passing Campbell River, Kelsey Bay, Port McNeill heading North to Bella Bella and Prince Rupert.

 

 

A very relaxing day at sea.