GRAND RIVER POW-WOW

This is for all of you guys in the UK. A week back in the country and I am in the middle of the oldest Canadian tradition there is, a pow-wow. It was really quite interesting. My favourite native costumes were the traditional coloured ones. These guys scared Tom but then again he is a red coat!

Nice to be back in Canada with the family!

GOOD-BYE ENGLAND

GATWICK AIRPORT - About to board 3.35 Globespan flight to Hamilton, Ontario.

I was bumped to first class. Mom was not impressed!

Here marks the end of an era for me.

OUNDLE FARMERS MARKET

This was a great opportunity to say good-bye to the little ancient market town that saw the passing of my teenage years. Although I didn't appreciate it at the time, I am grateful that I got to live in such a quaint location. To be fair, teenagers don't appreciate much of anything sometimes, and I was no exception!


The buildings that surround the market street are made of Jurassic limestone with roofs of slate. It's like being in the middle of a Charles Dicken's novel. There is nothing in Canada that could compare the the history I would pass on my way to school.

OXFORD



I honestly can't remember the name of this building (help me out Richard!). I do however know that this is the exit route for Oxford University Students who have just sat their exams. Oxford University is the only university that still insists that students sit exams in their robes. Not far outside these gates is an alley where I'm told they also sling flour at each other, still robed, following their exams. The only thing I would have changed about the day is my health.
Thanks for the tour Richard!

NOTHING LIKE YE OLDE PUB LUNCH

GOOD-BYE TO GOOD FRIENDS

BREAKFAST AT WETHERSPOON - SURBITON



Mom and Dad had been in the country 2 days and were on their way to Northamptonshire to catch up with old friends. Before tackling the trains and underground with their suitcases we had a plentiful breakfast. It was a beautiful morning. My teacher training had only just finished. The stress of the year was at an end and Mom and Dad had come to rescue me from the nightmare of home I had coped with.

FAREWELL TO CENTRAL LONDON