July 31, 2010

Life 2.0



Portland, sweet Portland.

The sun is out, the flowers are in full bloom and the BBQs are grilling. Oh how we missed you Portland, and summertime in the Pacific NW. Our first ten days back were a whirlwind, visiting with family and reconnecting with friends. And worth every minute. But before we could get too settled, we had one more stop to make on our almost-around-the-world adventure: CANADA. No we weren't dodging a draft or off searching for sasquatch, it was time to reconnect with the French/Canadian half of our family. Fleur-de-lis toting Quebecers.

Oh Canada.


Sonia's not-twin sister, Sonia and Ryan (honorary Canadian) on July 1st.

Our first stop was Toronto -- the Manhattan of the Great White North. And just in time for Canada's birthday, eh. We took in the sights of the city, like the CN Tower (Canada's "Eiffel Tower"), and ended the evening on the banks of Lake Ontario (the O in HOMES) to watch a rather lackluster fireworks show. A big thanks to Steve Ng for introducing us to one of Toronto's lil' watering holes.

Canada's Eiffel Tower.

Les soeurs awaiting Canada Day fireworks.

We are not holding hands. But if we were, that would be okay too.

And then to Quebec City (another 250km). It was a great time seeing la mere, le pere, la soeur (et son chum), les oncles, les tantes, les cousins, les amis, les chats, un castor, etc. For almost three weeks, we hiked, we kayaked, we sailed (in solo Lasers), we pedal boated, we swam, we ate, we drank, and then we ate some more. All in all, a great way to end an already amazing trip. Merci beaucoup tout le monde, notre sejour en Beauce s'est tres bien passe. A bientot, on espere!

Sonia's 32nd birthday out on Lake Lambton.


Kayaking.

Three girls, a speed boat and a big ol' floating device.

Our little maiden of the mist. Not Niagara. Les chutes de la Chaudiere.


Vieux Quebec, le Chateau Frontenac sur le fleuve St. Laurent.

So we can unpack our bags now? Yes. We're back to Portland, and this time, to stay. We are ready to roll up our sleeves and begin this new post-African reality. Sonia is busy preparing to continue her career as a physical therapist. And Ryan is looking to reinvent himself as a freelance purveyor of all things good. Cross your fingers friends. Once the jobs are are lined up, the rest of the pieces should fall into place.

Thank you for following our journey. It's been a wild ride.

Following this posting, our blog will also evolve to it's 2.0 version. Stay tuned for future updates about life, imbibery and the pursuit of socially-conscious happiness.