On Our Way

What fun would it be to travel in perfect weather, without ant concerns or worries?

Toronto is in the middle of one of its worst storms this year.  Over icy roads, we watch cars spin out before us, vehicles slide off the roads and of course managed a few breathless moments ourselves. But, we are here at the Pearson Airport ready to embark on a new adventure.

So far, the flight is on time and it looks like the weather is letting up.

Adventure awaits!

Crane Berry

 As the colours of fall brighten the tree line, thought turn, with gratitude to rich harvest.  With Thanksgiving around the corner, we decided to visit Johnston's Cranberry Marsh to learn a little more about that little red treasure.

 Originally named the Crane-berry after the crane-like features of its late spring flower, the cranberry grows in acid, sandy soil enjoying warm summer days.  This low lying vine never needs replanting. It can continue to produce for years.  These cranberries are in a field planted in the 1950's.
Cranberries are ripe when they are white in colour. The red colouration occurs as the berries are exposed to colder weather. The higher the berry grows on the vine, the more exposed it is to the weather.  Higher berries turn red sooner than the berries growing closer to the ground.

 Because the cranberry has air pockets, it has been discovered that it will float. Gone are the days of hand-picking (like a blueberry). Instead fields are flooded when the berry is ready for harvest and the floating berries are collected.

 Berries are sorted by colour and state of the berry.  White berries are rarely sold because most people prefer the red ones. Bruised berries are used for juice or wine. Unblemished red berries are sold fresh or frozen.

What is a trip to the cranberry marsh without a stop to sample Muskoka Lakes Wineries finest? Offering White Cranberry, Georgian Bay Rose, Red Maple, Cranberry, Cranberry-Blueberry, and Cranberry Spritzer, it is hard to choose.

Falling, Falling, Falling

The bright morning sun created the perfect back drop for this morning's adventure.

At the urging of our daring duo, Katrina and Ali, 'the girls' took to the friendly skies - literally. 

 After an on-land training session, donning the gear and perhaps a couple anxiously placed prayers, we flew skyward on two separate tiny planes to an altitude of 13000 ft, where we and our tandem instructors, leaped from the plane and glided to earth.

Libby (blue) and Brenda 

Of course, chance would place the two adventurers in the same plane, leaving mom and Elizabeth, who were less brave, together in this challenge.

Libby in flight

Ali coming in for a landing

Kat in flight

Kat gives the ride two thumbs up.

 After the 5 minute descent, each of us was thrilled by the adventure. So thrilled in fact that some of us are considering a solo flight!

Proud Sky Divers

All Said and Done

Leading the over 1000 participants in this Tour for Kids, Peter's group of about 14 riders werer the first to arrive at the University of Waterloo grounds. This ride, over hills. farm country, dirt roads and partially on highways raised funds for a very worthy cause including Camp Quality in Monetville. 

Congratulations to all involved on a job very well done!

Along the Way

One of the rest stops was Grove's Garden Greenhouse. Farmer Ken and his family graciously allowed the tour to set up a refreshment station and explore the property.

Gardens of abundance in fruits, vegetables and flowers artfully formed a peaceful and meditative rest stop. Ken eagerly showed off his chicken coup, pig barn and miniature horses. When asked about eggs he emerged from the coup with a basket of eggs.

We were happy to  take home a dozen of farm fresh eggs for a mere $2.

Remembering Tamara

Tough. Seriously tough. That is how I would describe the resolve of the young father who told the story of the brief but love-filled life of his daughter Tamara Rose.

Born ten years ago with Down's Syndrome, Tamara grew up to become a fun loving active little girl who was best described as 'love itself'. She loved everyone and everything that she did. Her life ended just four months ago after a two and a half year battle with leukemia. If you would like to learn more about Tamara, her dad suggests that you visit the Facebook page created in her memory.

Fighting tears and obviously holding in emotion her father rose to the challenge of inspiring riders with your tribute to Tamara.

Thank you Warren for sharing. Tamara is an inspiration for all.

Riding Again

Once again Peter embraced the challenge and rode in the Tour for Kids. 

This bike ride takes riders around the Waterloo area to raise money in support of camps for children with cancer and beyond.

A beautiful sunny morning greeted riders with a promise of good times to come.