A little work around the house...

We had already decided to plant a new tree on the property to mark our transition to Wheatley...so we visietd Wheatley Woods, a local nursery that specializes in tree species native to the area. As luck would have it, a local initiative had been undertaken to replant native species in and around Wheatley...so we got not only the oak tree we were looking for, but also a lovely red maple as well for a great price!


Our new Red Maple


Shumard Oak seedling

Point Pelee National Park

Later in the week, we decided to visit Point Pelee National Park, located south of Leamington at the very southern-most point of the Canadian mainland. The park is essentially a large and shifting sandbar, surrounded on three sides by Lake Erie, and still populated by a sparse remnant of the original Carolinian forest. One day is not enough to do truly do the park justice, between the sights, the wildlife, and historical appreciation, but at least it was a good scouting mission for future trips....and it's only about fifteen minutes away!


Boardwalk through the Marshes


Overview of the marsh from observation tower


The ever-shifting sandbar at the tip of the Park


Lake Erie on both sides!

Pelee Island

With our week of holidays, we decided to stay local and explore our new surroundings. The first destination of choice was nearby Pelee Island, a short ninety-minute ferry ride from the shores of Lake Erie. On Monday morning, we headed out for an early departure from Kingsville....

Graced with excellent weather, we spent two days exploring the small but interesting island. Having already visited the eastern-most point in North America (Cape Spear, NFLD) and the western shores of Vancouver Island (Tofino, BC), we could now add Pelee Island as the southern-most point in Canada as well....leaving only the unknown North to complete the Canadian compass...

Wildlife, wineries, and well-deserved relaxation highlighted our memorable stay in the middle of Lake Erie.

Arriving at Pelee Island via MV Jiimaan

Pelee Island Lighthouse


Pelee Island Winery


Our campsite for the night

Cats are People Too

The house-warming party last weekend was a blast - seemingly a good time had by all....fish fry, badminton, campfire, air hockey, and some local touring. Since Jane and Sarah already posted all the relevant pictures on their respective Facebook pages...and most of them are pretty compromising anyway...I thought I would entertain everyone with random cat photos.

Some pics...

I'm sure everyone can appreciate the length of time it takes to post pics on dial up...but since we finally found the camera and started snapping again....enjoy!

The new and improved living room

Man-Haven! (aka the garage)

First batch of wine - it ferments better sideways...

Maybe the only picture ever with ALL of the grass cut