A first

We've just wrapped up a visit to Ottawa and our old cottage at The Gatineau Fish & Game Club, where we holidayed as a blended family for 25 years.  For the first time, we were there with our two sons and what a different dynamic it was.  Many, many laughs -- many at the expense of B, which he took in stride (sort of, hahaha).  

"I remember you because of your jewelry," said the woman hostess in The Chateau Laurier, where we stayed on the way there and back.  Wow, we hadn't been there for more than a year, but that's what Filomena said.  Probably just a touch of BS, but it was clever nonetheless.  'The Backstreet Boys' were also staying there and a ruder bunch of punks I have never met.  Just oafs from Florida waaaaay past their prime.

Up at the cottage, I did my daily, just-under 2K swim around the bay, accompanied by my trusty 'Swim Buddy', a bright orange, inflatable device that does not create any drag, but will hold you if you need to stop to clear your goggles, for example.  It is also a bit of a security 'buddy' just knowing it is there if ever needed.  It would also tell rescuers where I am, should I drown; no need for expensive dragging of the lake.  

Here are a few snaps of our lovely visit.  We have already booked for next year!

Gene with one of the huge bass he caught.

Gene cooling off.  The weather was superb.

B relaxing.

Me with stepson, Scott, after a swim with my orange 'Buddy'.

Gene and B, enjoying a moment.  

B and son, Scott.

Cocktails on an evening boat ride.  (Me yapping, as usual.)

Dawn on the lake.

Sunrise.

Gene off to catch (and release) a few more.

There are very few cottages marring Lake Pemichangan.

Lunch in Maniwaki, where the invoice is also written in Anishinaabeg, the local native language.  Fascinating.