With friends, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada

So it was time to leave family and friends behind. All in all we had spent 6-8 weeks in Toronto and although we were sad to leave Martin's sister and family, we were not sad to leave the flat, sprawling 'burbs! Kelowna, B.C., made for a refreshing change with its rolling hills and huge lakes! Mega thanks go to Martin's parents for lending us a car - it has been a godsend and definitely made getting around seeing people and doing our chores way more easier in the short period of time that we've had.

In the two weeks we have been here, we have seen Martin's Aunt and Uncle, and his grandparents who are now almost 90! (His parents winter in Mexico, remember). Since I last saw Martin's grandparents, they moved into assisted living - a move they are very reluctantly coming to terms with, but the best in terms of help being on hand for when Nanny falls down. It has been great too to see all of Martin's friends that are still here. We have enjoyed doing some hikes in the hills pictured here above Kelowna, and just hanging out. I'm certainly getting to hear lots of stories as Martin and his friends reminisce over years of mischief and adventures!

Our short term plans -- there aren't any long term plans yet! -- have been forever changing, but we've finally made plans to head to Vancouver and Vancouver island to see friends tomorrow, and then south into the States landing in Portland for the month of December. Then back up to Kelowna Boxing Day and in time to get our ski legs on for the New Year. * Mush