Winter brings such lovely scenes

Last weekend we had a hoar frost here in Calgary so out came the camera

Once the sun came out and the temepratures rose the frost dropped off of the trees and bushes. More snow is predicted on Monday and Tuesday before Christmas so we shall see what scenes it will bring.

Minus 35C (with a windchill)

Temperatures have certainly dropped following the first major blizzard of the winter and with the windchill it certainly feels and is cold.

Calgary Zoo puts its animals indoors during the winter months and in their place a colourful light display is put on courtesy of the sponsors Enmax. We ventured to the Zoo not only to see the lights but also to Bill's works Christmas bash; apologies for some of the photos but it was cold and Bills hands were shaking a little. We will return at a later date when perhaps it is not minus 35C!

Ice and Snow!

What a few days we have had: Friday saw the forecasters predicting snow flurries early afternoon but they didn't predict rain, followed by a temperature drop followed by the snow flurries. It all led to slippery roads - not just slippery but ice and black ice covered. A 'baptism of fire' or should that be 'ice'. I left after 8 pm to pick up Bill from work, 17th Avenue was backed up way past 69th Street SW. I had been told to use a route behind Westhills Recreation Centre, only problem - I wasn't told just how steep the road was and that there would be ice, not just ice but sheer black ice. I couldn't hear the road so I put the vehicle into low four wheel drive, I must have looked good as someone took a photo of me coming down! At the time I thought get out of the road I've got enough to contend with.

Never been so worried about crashing the vehicle, hitting another vehicle and hurting myself. !7th Avenue was backed up due to an accident involving five vehicles. We returned home by 11 pm!

Sunday: Grey Cup day and a Chinook to raise temperatures. We ventured to Peter Lougheed Provincial Park to Hogarth Lakes. Lots of snow and an opportunity to try out our new snowshoes. There was a chill wind but once we started moving we were warm and toastie. The Lakes were frozen but the mountains provided splendid backdrops, some more snow covered than others and others were hidden from view by cloud and snow flurries. The area is open to skiers and snow shoers and a lot of fun was had by us all. The five kilometre trail had its ups and downs and provided ample opportunity for us to see how our snow shoes would cope. Snow shoeing here in western Canada is an emerging pastime and the parks have ensured that there are routes at various levels. It is fun but you do expend lots of energy! Once out of the chill wind we were too warm at times but didn't remove any layers until we were back in the car park.

We decided to continue our journey towards Canmore rather than returning via Kananaskis, we were met with stunning views. Canmore had much less snow and the temperatures were noticeably higher.

What views! mother nature always rewards us after a day out!

Looking for snow in Canmore!

Monday was Bills day off and so we drove to Canmore in search of snow and some cross country skiing. However, the warm weather of late has melted a lot of snow at ground level although the high mountains still look majestic in their winter cloaks of white. The Nordic centre was making snow and there was only a short 1.3 kms stretch available for skiing. The Canadian biathlon team was taking a break in the day centre, clad in red, smiling and joking. Soon enough their thoughts will be more serious as they seek to win an Olympic medal.

We asked at the information centre about possible walks and were shown on a map the closest. Many of the paths are multi use so hikers will share paths with mountain bikers and horse riders. We found the car park and the footpaths leading to quarry lake but opted to take a different route, we were heading towards the 'Highline Trail' and what a pleasant hike: lots of ups and downs, ice and snow - if this was a mountain bikers route you certainly had to be fit! As usual Bill found a lovely spot for a light lunch which included a view towards Canmore. There was snow in the distance which only added to the view of the high mountains, Mount Lady MacDonald (2605 m), Mount Fable (2702 m) and Grotto Mountain (2706 m). Behind were the Three Sisters (2,936 m + 2,736 m + 2,694 m), Mount Lawrence Grassi (2545 m) and Ha Ling Peak (2,407 m), some of these peaks are accessible to hikers in the summer and we were busily planning what we could do next summer!

Loops from Elbow Station, Elbow Recreation Park

We set off a little later than we expected today, glued to the TV watching Man Utd lose by a solitary goal from a free kick mistakenly given by the ref.

We parked at Elbow Station car park, just three cars in the car park, despite being nearly midday the temperature was cool and it didn't help being in the shade. Our first loop was the Diamond T Loop, not long quite short actually at 4.2 kms. The forest provided cover from the chill breeze but also provided slippery conditions underfoot in places as the sun had melted snow which had now frozen solid and was covered by fresh snow. The route was pleasant enough with the usual uphill 'pull' which ultimately led us to the look out. There was a simple bench bathed in sunshine, a perfect place for some lunch before descending.

On the trail maps the route was meant to be circular, which it was of a fashion, however once we had descended we turned right to meet the Sulphur Springs Trail (4.6 kms). On this trail we were joined by four hardy mountain bikers who certainly had to be fit to get up some of the uphills. Our route took us through forestry towards another lookout. We crossed Moose Mountain Road and finally saw Moose Mountain; there is a fire lookout on top and a place we would like to hike up to - it will be next year though as the winter gate closes the road at the start of December. The top was covered in snow and looked quite exposed. The lookout was not an exact place but because we had left the forest and were in the open the views were stunning. The sun played on the leaf free aspens and distant snow clad mountain tops became visible.

Our return trail - Elbow Valley Trail (4.3 kms) - took us back to the start of this second loop. We were gifted with a sighting of a Northern Pygmy Owl. It allowed Bill to take some photographs before flying off to a higher perch to search for food. We were very fortunate, the sun was setting and this is a key time for these small owls to hunt as they are often mobbed by groups of songbirds. The trail went uphill and various little birds danced in front of us including a very cheeky Hairy Woodpecker! When we reached the trail head, the sun had gone down, the wind had picked up and we still had .8 kms left.

Another glorious hike in the Elbow Recreation Area. We felt exhilarated what else could you wish for on a hike but sun, snow, stunning scenery and wildlife. Our return drive to Calgary along Highway 1 was pleasant enough as the light played on the clouds coming from the Rocky Mountains.

Little Elbow Recreation Area

It was Sunday, the sun was shining and the temperature was slowly rising and we headed towards Highway 1 and the Bragg Creek exit onto Hwy 22 and then onto Hwy 66 the Elbow Falls Trail. We were heading for an area we hadn't been to before and which we wanted to visit before the road was closed for the winter. As we headed southwest towards the Little Elbow Recreation Area the temperature dropped a little and the road conditions became decidedly a little more icey - the car went into 4 wheel drive mode and a couple of bends were given due care and attention. We found the trailhead parking almost by accident as the road in front of us was already closed for the winter. The car park was busy; several horse boxes took up a lot of space - outfitters taking paying customers out for a little upmarket camping!

There were a number of walks starting from this trailhead, some following the river with information boards ours was a little different as it was up rather than along the river. The camp site, now closed for the winter months, looked comfrotable with picnic tables and BBQ pits. The compost toilets, were clean and well maintained, just as you would expect on any hikes in the mountains.

We were heading for the Nihahi Ridge, we were not quite sure of the the conditions which might await us. There had been snow during the week and the path might be too icey or treacherous to navigate ... we would see. The Nihahi ridge is a product of the McConnell Thrust and the start of the front ranges of the Rocky Mountains themselves. Its stark cliffs contrast with the more gentle slopes of the foothills to the east.

Our route would take us along the Little Elbow Trail by the Elbow River, along narrow root filled trail through the forest. The switch backs here are well graded and before long we found ourselves in the open meadows with the snow covered balding Nihahi Ridge opening out in front of us and with it views of snow covered mountains. The sky was blue and the sun shone, off came the gloves and the hats and we even unzipped our jackets!

We found the ridge afforded more views of high mountains as the route gave us gentle sections in betweeen steeper climbs. For once we had the camera.

We left the last 300metres for another time as it was a scramble and we decided that snow and ice were best left.

We enjoyed our hike and as we decended we enjoyed the views of the mountains on the other side of the river Mount Glasgow, Mount Cornwall amongst them all reminding us of the hikes we enjoyed in the U.K. Our return journey towards Hwy 1 was in glorious sunshine, the ice and snow which had greeted us in the morning were gone. We were afforded views of other hikes we wanted to do, but they depended on the weather and whether we would be able to ascend them before the winter road closures!

Three months last Saturday!

Who would believe it three months since we landed, we seemed to have packed in so much. It's hard not to keep sending emails, and letters, to family and friends full of all the new things we have seen and done. The weather has been interesting to say the least here in Calgary with early snow falls and low temperatures followed by more 'normal' autumnal temperatures. We awake on Saturday expecting rain only to find snow. We reside on the western side of the City and quite high up, 0ver 4,000 ft, and so we received over 10 cms of snow! The weather forecast caught up with the weather once the snow had stopped falling, weather forecasters have he same problems here with getting it right.

We have been out exploring; Peter Lougheed Provincial Park and the areas around Bragg Creek. There are so many things to see, explore and do. Most of the Provincial Parks provide a variety of all year round use for example hikes in the summer become snow shoe routes and cross country skiing routes in the winter. The scenery is ever changing as winter nears, it is strange however to see snow trees fully laden with leaves which haven't dropped yet. In the garden we have a rowan tree full of leaf and berries, following the snows and low temperatures the leaves have turned brown but the berries by contrast are still bright red. Lots of the Canadian Robins have been flying through on their way to better weather. On our local walks through the ravines and green spaces, the aspen trees are the same although their leaves have curled and have turned a rather unpleasant shade of yucky green/brown but they still rustle in a breeze. The oddest sound is that of melting snow dropping from the trees and at the same time hearing the rustle of leaves!

We spent a pleasant day in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park,as it was a Monday there were very few travellers on the road and we had the park to ourselves most of the time. Our journey from Calgary was interesting as we travelled through rain, sleet and snow. There was very little snow on the ground in the Park and the clouds hung low, affording glimpses of the snow covered high mountains. Certainly come again weather.

We had a picnic lunch in one of the day use areas, it was a pleasure to sit and eat our lunch surrounded by awesome mountains and have only the sounds of nature for company. Our journey ended at Canmore, at the Nordic Centre, where there was a 400 metre track already available for skiing! They open officially on November 15th. we shall be visiting again and trying out those trails.

Three months on and one of us has a job, we have ups and downs (mostly Zof re:finding a job)but mostly ups. Home sick ? .... no time really too much to see and do!

Sunday morning .....

Sunday morning we woke up to snow, yes snow in October.

All gone by the end of the day. Today, Wednesday, snow flurries, a little hail and at 4.56 pm the sun is shining. As the Calgarian winter begins to play out we are enjoying the changing scenes not just day to day but also minute by minute.

The mountains look stunning in their winter coats of white glistening snow. Unfortunately the big lens is in store so no photos, yet.

Exploring Calgary: Nose Hill Park

At 1,100 hectares, Nose Hill is Canada's largest urban natural environment park and at 1,230 metres, it is the highest point in the 'Clagary area'. So we just had to go and see. Temperatures were meant to be on the low side but as we left the car park we quickly shed our jackets as the breeze was warmer and we were going uphill at a pace - how else would we go!

It is possible to become disorientated but thanks to Bill, the path finder, we did not get lost. There were plenty of landmarks to guide us on our way for example the airport was in the east, the mountains ranges, shrouded today, were to the west. There were also power lines that crossed the hill and the antenna standing near the quarry which also marked the descent to the car park. We could also see the Canada Olympic Park which was not far from home

In the west the fall is not so colourful as in the east but the aspens do give a beautiful shade of gold whilst at ground level the the rose hips are gradually turning a vivid shade of red. Parts of Nose Hill are covered with groves of trembling aspens, these are native trees with round leaves that tremble in a breeze. All the aspens within a grove are genetically identical as the original tree clones itself by sending out suckers from underground roots, each of which becomes a new aspen, Some the aspen colonies in Alberta are over 6,000 years old. Interestingly all clones within a colony change colour at the same time in the fall. The groves make great hiding places for animals but we only saw robins and magpies.

Nose Hill allows you to leave the sights and sounds of Calgary behind as you walk along either grass or gravel paths. Today there were few people in the park; the odd jogger and cyclist and few dog walkers.

As we returned to the car our thoughts turned to lunch as the hunger pangs began to hit. Nose Hill Park was well worth a second visit as there were too many paths we hadn't ventured down.

A 'stroll' up Wasootch Ridge

Bill decided we should stretch our legs and go for a walk! He didn't let me see the write up in the book so I should have known that it would not be straight forward. I was right, the start of the hike from the car park was up and I mean up steeply! Thank goodnes it was a cool start to the day. As we gained height quickly we found ourselves looking directly over the car park and watching the climbers getting ready for their days climbing; it was strange as we could hear their conversations and jokes - what a strange way to eaves drop.

Once closer to the Ridge the vistas opened up, the views of mountains increasing in size and shape. Once again 360 degree views all around us and where do you start looking down Wasootch and Porcupine canyons or Mt Baldy, Mt Allan, Mt Lorette or Mt McDougall. At trailsend on the Ridge there are fine views of Mounts Sparrowhawk, Bogart, Lougheed and in the distance Mount Rundle. Spoilt for choice in Kananaskis yet again.

The Ridge is dry and we carried large amounts of water, as well as leaving water and fruit drinks in the cool box at the boot. Lunch was a pleasant affair as we gazed on the scenery and the knarled trees, in the heat of the day there was very little wildlife and certainly no bear sightings. Kananaskis is known for its bear (both grizzly and black) sightings and there are information sheets in the car parks reminding us all of being bear aware.

On our return journey, downhill most of the way, the views continued to embrace us as the hike drew to its close. Steep, yes, but well worth another visit possibly in the spring when the flowers are in bloom. The car park was full of cars mostly climbers, there were eleven of us on the Ridge. The climbers were making their return from a days climbing on the slabs along Wasootch Creek. We were all thirsty and the well stocked cool boxes were emptying fast. With words of ' a great day' 'beautiful views' we gradually packed our vehicles, turned out of the car park and onto Highway 40 and our respective journeys home.

A travelling we will go .....

As we missed the August Bank Holiday in the UK we decided to travel to the Kootenay Valley over the Labour day weekend! We departed Calgary on the Monday and headed to Banff, people had said it was warmer in Banff but we did not expect the intensity of the heat in the afternoon. A short stroll confirmed heat and the need to take in lots of water. After an early start on Tuesday we started our hike up to Healy Meadows and up to the Pass from Sunshine car park, we prepared ourselves with sunscreen SPF 30, Deet to keep those bugs at bay and of course bear spray. The bear spray is psychological as if you have to use it you are in a situation you shouldn't be in. Rangers tell you to talk loudly, make noise and call out which we do as it is better not to surprise a bear let alone come between a mother and her cubs!

As we reached the Meadows and then the Pass we were the only hikers encroaching on nature. The views were awesome, 360 degree views of mountains, glaciers, cornices and the only sounds were from the breeze and the insects as they flew around. We were too late this year for the brilliant meadow flowers - perhaps next time. After a short while we were joined by three other hikers who found their own space to take in the views. We munched on our sandwiches courtesy of Safeway in Banff; we can well recommend the gourmet sandwiches the fillings, chosen by yourself, are fresh and exceedingly tasty but perhaps a little on the large side.

On returning to our hotel we showered and decided on an early evening meal which turned out to be very fortuitous as after the main course we watched an electrical storm the likes of which we have never seen. To top it all there was a power cut every where in Banff; some other residents went back to dark rooms Why? When like us they could remained in the dining room watching a spectacular display of forked lightening - light was restored an hour or so later.

We departed Banff the following morning and decided to travel along the Bow Valley Parkway for a while until the Kootenay Park turnoff. We were rewarded with a grizzly bear sighting, a young angry male who scowled at us as he crossed the road and gave us an opportunity to take a photo. Our journey continued through Kootenay Park and into British Columbia. The Park has many stopping places often with a trailhead; Stanley Glacier is an enjoyable hike as it offers mountain views and also the Glacier. Last year we had to take care on this hike as a bear had been digging quite close to the trail. Ranger stations, Banff, Radium and at Kootenay itself have up to date information regarding bear sightings and also cougar sightings. It is important to be bear aware.

Lake Kootenay is a perfect place to chill out; there is the lake with osprey and eagles (and other birds) you could even go fishing yourself. It is peaceful except for those loud motor bikes doing the Selkirk Loop. There are no night lights in the area so on a clear night the milky way is visible as are satellites as they spin around our planet all at different speeds.

The garden at the Log House is still blooming with colourful roses and other flowers; the trees are still heavy with fruit - plums will be ready shortly followed by the apples. The grapes are small but juicy and tasty to eat. Other berries are now dwindling in supply, however green string beans and zucchini are plentiful. My sister and her husband grow enough vegetables to be sufficient throughout the winter only having to purchase meat and fish. The temperatures in the morning and the late evening were telling us that the fall was not that far away, before we left the heating kicked in as the temperature in the Log House fell to 8C and the geothermal pump felt it needed to pump in warm not cold air! What efficiency.

Our journey back to Calgary allowed us to see a female moose with two young in Kootenay Park, the cooler temperatures had allowed a sugar frosting of snow on some of the higher peaks.

Settling in

Five weeks really have whizzed by; not much time to sit and contemplate. We collected our new vehicle a week ago and it really has given us 'freedom'. We have decided to look for property in either the SW or NW of Calgary; this side of Calgary has quick access to Highway 1 and the mountains.

Last weekend we went hiking in Kananaskis/Peter Loughead Provincial Parks. As we passed through Canmore the locals looked fit and tanned - I think we have some work to do in tightening those muscles! The Nordic Centre is well worth a visit as it has maps, trails, biking trails and a new sport disk golf, all good fun and it gets you into the great outdoors. The views really were spectacular. Our journey took us past Grassi Lake off the tarmaced road and onto dirt cum gravel ... our nice new clean car not for long.

We passed long horned sheep, a cute young black bear on our journey to the trailhead; sorry no photographs why? Because we decided to watch and the camera remained on the floor of the car. Next time it will be see the animal and take a photograph. We hiked upto Windy Pass and were greeted by a welcoming breeze, a group of friendly Canadians and views that did take your breath away. What wonderful places Bill takes me to for lunch! Our sanwiches never tasted so good. The breeze meant that there were few biting insects about. We certainly enjoyed seeing what is on our doorstep and easily within an hours drive from SW Calgary where we are staying.

The job front is slow, we have put in a number of applications and are now just waiting to see what becomes of them. Zofia has also put in papers to the Alberta Teaching Association for accreditation of her qualifications: nothing is cheap 250C$ and then a further 85C$ at the Notary. All copies had to be 'notarised' I had a shock as the Notary was signing and stamping each copy as two people before us had paid 25C$ for just one signature on a document. So imagine the relief when he said 85 dollars .. phew! The Association didn't seem to think that sending originals by post wasn't normal. The Notary however did agree with us - never send originals by post. Also UK trained teachers in Alberta must contact every post secondary institution for a transcript of the course studied, these transcripts must be sent directly to the Alberta Teacher Association so it doesn't matter if you have a copy with you it won't count. Also you will need to contact the GTC for a statement of Professional Standing. Once everything as arrived at the Registry the process will take 11 - 14 weeks.

Usually when we come on holiday in the summer thoughts at this time of August turn to returning home and going back to work. We guess that psychologically this week will be one of emotional turmoil for us both, as we are not returning from holiday .. in fact this summer has been busy completing paperwork, applying for jobs (not a usual holiday activity), finding our way around, looking at showhomes and contemplating a mortgage and oh hoping for an improved exchange rate!

Two weeks have flown

Two weeks ago we left Manchester Airport a little delayed in taking off and charged with emotions difficult to set down in words. Once airborne thoughts turned to our forthcoming adventures. We made up a fair amount of time in the air and landed only fifteen minutes late at 6.45 pm. What followed was unbelievable; we left the aircraft, proceeded through immigration, collected our bags went through customs and were walking out through the doors by 7.30 pm!! The family were not expecting us through so quickly and there were no parking charges to pay at the airport.

We arrived to warmth and sunshine, although the weather this past week has been interesting what with thunderstorms, lightening displays, hail and torrential downpours.

One of the first things we did was visit our Bank and alter a few things with our account and apply for a credit card. We also exchanged our old UK driving licences for Alberta ones; we took the sight test, had our photographs taken and are awaiting our new licences. We also went into the City to obtain our Social Insurance Numbers - the cards have already arrived. We hope that our PR cards will also arrive soon. Once these have all arrived we will be able to register for our medical cards. Cards with your name, photograph and address are invaluable here.

Bill spent a great deal of time researching vehicles: we are fortunate to have our nephew's car for use. Car reports reflect a different set of values to the ones we were used to in the UK: reliability is key here and the Japanese producers top the tables, could be due to the fact that they import their models from Japan and therefore have a better hold on build. The makes we would usually go for do not come out well in reports and also are on the pricier side. We have opted for a Toyota 4Runner which give us the ability to navigate mountain and logging roads to reach trail heads for our hikes. Having credit reports from Experian and Equifax proved useful when looking for a small amount of financing.

We spent time looking at car insurance, wow what a shock we were quoted over 3000C$ for the pair of us! However, we remembered Wiki on the British Expats site and we found a company, Canadian Direct, which took into account our driving records from the UK. Prior to leaving the UK we changed our licences to the new plastic ones and on receipt of them also received paper copies of our driving record.

The exchange rate is not doing what it is supposed to so we are only exchanging enough monies for the car deposit and for living expenses at the moment. We hope it will rise somewhat when we come to buying a house.

We have both applied for jobs in a variety of sectors hoping to utilise our transferable skills acquired through so many years of teaching. Fingers crossed.

Two weeks in and we feel it is time to slow down a little and relax.

Our last hours in the north west

After having repacked the bags for the umptieth time we are still unable to make the weight(!). We are staying with friends in Stockport; what else do you need before departing but the company of true friends who are also have the knack of making you feel at home even though all our belongings have taken over their home. The weather has been true to form showers with a smattering of sunshine.

Bill parted with his GTI yesterday' spent the morning cleaning and polishing only to have the heavens open as we arrived for the hand over. At least the rain drops made perfect globules on the bonnet thanks to my polishing. Today Bill has suffered from withdrawal symptoms but by this afternoon was seriously looking at possible purchases in Calgary .... what about the trailer tent?!

Oddly this morning we received a text message we must remember to remind everyone that we will be in a different time zone and early morning here will be more like midnight in Calgary. Alternatively the mobile will be switched off.

Odd feelings today.....

Today finds us sort of "relaxing" in our holiday 'lodge'. Yesterday, Friday, was both emotional and traumatic as we both bade our final farewells at our places of work. Nothing really prepares you for this; evening meals and get together's are great but the last day and the last words of speeches bring on the trembling voice, the emotion of it all gets to you and the tears follow. Bill did better than me, I couldn't hold back the tears no matter how hard I tried. Still after 17 years....... Thank goodness for email, Skype and the post to keep in touch!

After all our evenings out we are now cutting down on our food intake but not the wine as we have been given some rather nice bottles which need to be consumed before we depart these shores.

Gradually we are sifting through the large amounts of paperwork we brought with us after our move; mostly being filed in the bin. After de-cluttering the house it is quite easy to throw things away once they have served a purpose. I wonder if once we have settled into our new home in Canada it will be easy to throw away useless bits and pieces or will we return to the old habits of hoarding for those just in case moments or will it be a mixture of the two!?

Outside out holiday lodge the ducks are looking for food, they do look sweet waddling about whilst the rabbits just run for cover as soon they see you and have decided that you have no food for them. In the early hours of the morning, usually about 5 am, a crow lands on the roof and jumps about. After having woken us up it flies away with a croak and we fall into that deep sleep which makes it hard to wake up from!

Only six more days before we fly out of the UK, the reality of it all still feels distant, although the prospect of life in another country is really a challenge we both are beginning to relish. Funny really you want to get started but still there are things here that have to be done.

Living in Limbo

Its really strange, here we are still working, most things operating the same, except we do not have a permanent address. Post has to be picked up from the delivery office, newspaper from a newsagents and milk from the supermarket, and we both are leaving our places of employment in five days time.

It has been a busy week, going to a number of leaving party's and beginning to say our farewells to our many friends and acquaintances. We have both been active in the County within the education field, working parties, consultation groups and such like. It has been very humbling to receive the good wishes of so many people, and to realise how appreciated the work we did was. However I think the staff at our respective schools are getting tired of our growing smiles as the date for flying to Canada gets closer. Although some colleagues have remarked that are smiles are getting wider whilst others have said how much younger we look - any more years dropping off will take us back to the days of wearing nappies (shouldn't go there).

There is another strange feeling, the schools are preparing for the next term and not only are we not going to be there but it is difficult to contribute to the plans when your not committed to the new term like the others. It is difficult to avoid the opportunity to wind some folk up, and its also very tempting to tell it as it is to some difficult characters. There is also the emotion of leaving behind colleagues who have 'been there' for us at difficult times both at work and personally. It is sometimes hard to hold back the tears; but then I think it is easier for women to show their emotions at such moments.

As we sit looking out of our 'lodge' the skies are turning a deeper shade of grey, no doubt it will be raining by the evening. We have found that we spend little time watching the television but instead spend time listening to the radio or going out for a short stroll around the area we are staying. Within a short walking distance are a number of hostelries serving 'proper' beer and good food. However, this weekend we are eating in; eating more simply as we have been indulging in richer food and much larger portions than we are used to. Perhaps some power walking to burn off those calories. Time spent with friends and good work colleagues, over a nice meal in a pleasant setting means so much as we prepare for our adventures in Alberta.

The Final Countdown

Well here we are in a holiday village sat outside a bar at lunchtime Saturday. The house is sold the furniture is packed and now in store and we are both emotionally and physically shattered. It has been a roller coaster of a few days, the removers arrived on Wednesday bright and cheerful and we walked around the house pointing out all our worldly goods WE have considered essential to our new life in Canada. They told us that all the untreated baskets could not be shipped, OK not a major problem, then all the candles were not possible in case they melted or ignited (shame you need a match to light them normally!). And of course we had numerous trips to the tip; it becomes easier to throw items away especially when they are of no use to anyone. Friends and colleagues at work took lots of little items off our hands at the last minute and then felt 'difficult' because we didn't ask for much. The hardest part of the two days was as the final piece of furniture went into the van and the guys asked if we were OK at that point we were but as they shut the doors at the back and bolted down the side doors the emotions rose up ... daft though it might seem.


The home we had was now just a house and could have belonged to anyone, devoid of everything that had made it ours. We stood in the garden and took it all in: when we moved in the house was new the garden just flat and grassed - now it was completely different. We ran the pump and enjoyed the sound of trickling water through the two smaller ponds into the big pond. The lilies Bill had planted out were beginning to flower and as for the front garden it was still blooming with red pokers coming through!

Friday morning saw us giving the house a final clean, completion took place in the morning!! never heard of that before and we locked the door at 11 am. It was only as we left that I remembered not seeing the key to next door, we were the key holders for their alarm as they were for ours, the little brown envelope had been packed with the contents of the cupboard. Dave's response to this news was well we can't be burgled for a while! We agreed to post the keys back once we received our container in October! We arrived at our workplaces exhausted as we hadn't slept well and were up drinking tea at 5 am.

Our holiday let is comfortable and we have spread out in it. Does this mean we are in holiday mode I asked Bill as we are in a holiday let, not quite was the reply.

Last weekend in our home!

It's Sunday, we are awaiting friends to collect electrical items and other furniture we are not taking with us. It is indeed a strange feeling; sadness at leaving a house, a home, we have lived in for 17 years and a garden we have created and nurtured over that time. But on the other hand there is an urgency, a need to move and get there - to Calgary.

We have 15 working days left at our schools and 10 of those evenings are catered for with outings and farewell meals - how will we get through them? Our smiles are getting bigger by the day as we have new adventures to look forward to.

Bill has spent a great deal of time pulling my leg about sending clothing ahead with Parcelforce - what a dream of a service. All you ladies out there know clothing weighs, especially mens shoes. I have spent two evenings working out what 60 kgs is like - our limit on the flight. We booked with Thomas Cook and upgraded to premium hence the additional weight. It's the work clothes that are the issue - we need to look smart but we also need to be cool in this heatwave we are experiencing at present. What do people do with hangers? Do they take them with them or just throw them away? I'm thinking of taking a few.

We have had numerous visits to the tip - we are not only on first name terms but we get help with emptying the car! I wonder how many more trips there will be before the end of the week and completion.

Things are Moving faster and faster

At last we have exchanged contracts and will have completed by the beginning of July. Now the action starts I suppose? We have found somewhere to live for a few weeks while we fulfil our contracts here, holiday lodge not far away, mind you it's expensive. There was nothing cheaper and try getting a short term let-no way six months is about the shortest they have, sorry sir will not entertain anything less even if it is empty and not earning, where is the logic, it fails me. Started letting some of our possession go now, all the electric stuff that will not convert and some furniture we think we will not need. This is a real thought provoking process, discussing do we; will we; have we and is there a better alternative over furniture and other belongings.

At the same time we are slowly working through all the bits of your everyday life and cancelling so many things that are important, or you thought were important. TV, phone, broadband the list seems endless.

However to end this on a high, there are only a few weeks left to the start of our new life in Canada, that really is something to look forwards to. We posted some clothes to Andrew in Calgary and we have now paid for the removers and insurance. Soon we will be looking at houses in reality and not just on MLS

Last time I said time seemed to be flying by, well it is and it isn't if you know what I mean.

We had expected to have exchanged on the house by now, but their solicitor only seems to work in dribs and drabs. They have, this week, just discovered that there is a covenant on the house by the developers that any building has to be approved by them. The developers are a company which is dormant. We have had a conservatory added to the house a long time ago which we should have applied for permission, didn't of course like so many others so now we have to indemnify the buyers against I don't know what. The point of this rant is that this came just prior to a proposed exchange of contracts not earlier when enquires were being done. So a delay, still one less week in holiday accommodation.

We have decided to post some clothes in advance to our nephew in Calgary, just to make sure we have enough says Zof. Well the weather is somewhat changeable. Also we have started being brutal with what we are taking with us, a change from our earlier approach, so the kitchen sink stays.

We went to London for a few days in half term, really to celebrate our twentieth wedding anniversary. Met up with Nick my Best Man and had a really great afternoon, lunch in a London club and a leisurely drink in the bar afterwards. It was a great way on catching up on news and meeting really good friends. We did the tourist things, took in a show, A Little Night Music by Sondheim at the Garrick; a really good performance. Even felt the Piccadilly line trains rumbling under our feet during the performance! Guess the earth moved (?!) Went round the Tower of London, you know I (Bill) lived in London for 19 years and never went to the Tower, but it was very good, Crown Jewels, guided tour and visited the Henry VIII exhibition.

We were staying right by Tower Bridge so we were spoilt by the Bridge opening on cue for us I have put some photos in so folks can get nostalgic for London

Time is Flying By

You know how it is, everything is just plodding along and then whoosh it all speeds up just a tad too quickly. This coming week will see us exchanging on our house; all those worries about selling and telling yourself you only need one buyer and one offer. We hope to be moving out by the end of the month so we will only be in a holiday rental for four weeks maximum. Have you seen the prices for holiday lets .... £600 plus per week in some parts of Morecambe Bay and the Lune Valley! Our furniture will be going into storage and we would like it to arrive at the beginning of October in Calgary (at the moment depending on employment).

Work can be 'difficult' - we are moving on but at the same time we want to leave everything ready for the next person to take on and improve etc. Our colleagues keep telling us to 'take that broad grin off' as we are looking too cheerful. Those of you who have been here will know that inside you're quite tense, on the one hand it is a new challenge (and at our age) and on the other it is starting out again although we do have skills which are transferrable, we hope.

We are now on decluttering phase 4, this basically means another trawl through all those things you have kept dear and kept for those just in case moments, that never came. I guess it is safe to say that if you haven't used it in three years it is OK to throw it!?! Bill says if we have not used it in 3 months........

My Jeep was sold in April and we delivered it to its new owner yesterday and my M200 UTD plate is on ebay, just in case anyone is interested or knows someone who might be ...... Man U are playing on Wednesday evening in the Champions League Final

We are gradually putting a list together of all the electrical items we are not taking with us, some of our friends and work colleagues have already been asking if we have a washer, a fridge freezer, a television. Then comes the embarrasing bit how much to ask for.

On a sunnier note the weather is brighter and sunnier, yes I know it is a Bank Holiday weekend and yes it will rain on Monday. Not in Morecambe they say. Our garden is full of lovely blooms, the cold winter weather has really given us seasons again and the spring flowers are stunning. Our poppies have never been so plentiful or as large and our spring flowering apricot rose is a picture. The sun does bring out the weeds though and yes that is my next chore.

Busy Times

It has been a busy few weeks in our preparation for our move to Canada.
We have had a number of viewings on the house and another offer which we have negotiated and accepted. We have booked flights and removers for July, wow!! Its not that far away. Things may have to be brought forward by several weeks when we agree a completion date on the house. We may have to move into a holiday flat for a few weeks, or a tent on the prom. Zof and I have started sorting even more of our belongings into those we want and those we can sell or throw away. The Jeep has been sold, not for a great price but more than I was expecting, Zof has started the process of moving the number plate M200UTD from the Jeep so she can sell it. When we should sell the GTI has been a topic of conversation but no real decision as yet
As well as all this we are moving towards the really busy times at work and I am organising a conference for the Governors Association. Why do we do it? There have been some good fun days in the Lakes with friends helped by really pleasant sunny weather over Easter, but most weekends are about planning and looking forward to our new life in Canada.
Every day events include looking at the exchange rate, it is a real roller coaster ride working out what a fall of 3-4 cents per pound would do to our finances. Also Bill spends some time keeping an eye on the Canadian economy re jobs and house prices, lots of concerns there as circumstances change. It seems like Canada has not been so badly effected as the UK but then they don't have the BBC creating panic with every bit of bad news plastered over their news bulletins.

March 15th. 2009.

An interesting week in all manner of ways: we have had drier weather, even a little sunshine. Doesn't the sun bring out the best in people lots of smiles and happier folk!

We have also had a couple of viewings and an offer! Not quite what we were expecting and so it is there 'on the table' so to speak. Don't they say that moving house and changing jobs are two of the most stressful times of your life add emigrating and wow levels hit the sky....

The sunnier weather allowed us into the garden - who allowed all those weeds to take root and Bill the lawn has moss in it but at least it's green! The snowdrops are past their best but the crocuses and daffs are in full bloom. Camelias are blossoming in sheltered gardens here im Morecambe but not ours, it will flower usually when everyone elses has finished.

January 2009 saw the end of a 32 month wait for skilled workers visas and PR papers. What joy! Resignations followed at our workplaces, the house has been placed on the market (and we have had three viewings in the first three weeks) - no offers yet! We have seen four international removal companies and we are still upbeat!!

Why are we moving? We enjoy the outdoors and we love the Canadian lifestyle. Our travels have taken us to Canada on a number of holidays; the call of the Rockies is strong. The high mountain passes, the meadow flowers with their beautiful scent and of course the wildlife - the bears both black and grizzly, moose, deer, bobcat.

We enjoy cross country ski ing, Bill is much better than me and we look forward to proper snow and more opportunities to improve our technique. Bill wants to try downhill; but has decided that he prefers the slower route down as he has just watched the downhill from Norway (Kvitfejell).

We would like to learn new skills and take up new hobbies - kayaking especially sea kayaking appeals.