A Pike in Trout Lake

Both Sunday and Tuesday were gorgeous days and being situated right on the water we chose to stay close to home to enjoy every moment. When John offered to take us for a boat ride I have to admit I'm unsure who was more keen to get on board - me or Keegan.

North Bay Housesit #4

We're back in North Bay, Ontario to house and pet sit Keegan. This is our fourth time caring for this little charmer and we were intrigued to see how he's changed during the past year since we were last here. One year older (or seven, if you're counting dog years), he's matured and discarded some of that boundless non-stop puppy energy. Just like us older folks he has no qualms of taking it easy when the mood strikes.

Back in Canada & Kayaking the Little White River

After a little more than three weeks arriving back in Canada (and after visiting friends and family in southern Ontario and Massachusetts), we no longer feel out of sync. Now that life has returned to normal, John's been kayaking five times.

Portsmouth: Millennium Promenade to Southsea Castle

Our last day in Portsmouth began with a quick tour of the town centre as up until now our focus had been entirely on its Historic Dockyard. Unfortunately it was a nondescript pedestrian shopping area that didn't 'wow' us like other towns or cities have, but this chess themed fountain did catch our eye.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a large waterside complex designed to showcase 800 years of British naval history. Tickets are valid for one year from the date of purchase and that's important because there is so much to see and do it's impossible to do it justice in a single visit. We devoted three full days to the dockyard and were still only able to tour the Mary Rose Museum, Submarine Museum, HMS Victory,  Explosion Museum, and take in a Harbour Tour.

Hospital of St. Cross

One of our favourite places in all of England is a short walk outside of Winchester proper. The Hospital of St. Cross is Britain's oldest almshouse and was founded by William the Conquerer's grandson Henry of Blois between 1132 and 1136. 

Winchester Walkabout

Winchester is a walled city and at various places the wall and its fortifications are not only visible but still in use by its present day inhabitants. To reach High Street (the pedestrian-only main shopping area) we would pass through the Westgate. Just to make it interesting we'd zip through the middle tunnel one day, then opt to use either the right or left passageway the next. Variety is the spice of life!