Comments for dianamatsuda:you have 45 comments

Grace Veenema
Hi Diana and Massey,So glad you are home safely. I just now caught up on the final blog entries after getting back on dry land and home again. I certainly had a good chuckle about the hot cooler! Par for the shoestring course!! I can hardly wait to see how Diana will integrate the text and photos of the trip into the best coffee table book ever! Thanks for sharing your really amazing adventures.Grace

13 Sep 2007
Robert Hynes
Hey,
This is Robert from Rowdy Stout. Thank you very much for the kind words. Glad you enjoyed the show. Wish we could sell you a CD. Keep checking the website. Might start recording ot in the Fall.All the best,
Robert

23 Aug 2007
Carole
Happy Happy Birthday! DianaYou’re travel journal is a wonderful read! It’s almost like being there! This is a ‘trip of a lifetime’…I’m so glad you’re having such a wonderful time! Carole

21 Aug 2007
Pat and Norm
You are sure having a great trip, seeing lots and visiting family. We really enjoy hearing from you this way. BUT you are sure missing a lot back here. We miss you. Yesterday was the Panther Valley Festival at the Craig Heritage Park. Lots of exhibits, butter making, loading and firing old gumns,lessons in the old schoolhouse, music in the church. Saw a stuffed cougar and lots of pictures of the cougars that roamed here 100 years ago. By the way, a cougar has been sighted several times over the last couple of weeks, just a couple of blocks from our house, so I tend to look over my sholulder often when working in the garden.
Last night was a concert in Qualicum in support of Breast Cancer Research. “Memory Lane” with Peggy Kinsman performed songs from the 50’s and 60’s for almost 3 hours. Of course the audience was almost all grey-haired, but enthusiastic and evening was very enjoyable. Today at noon, we head down to the Sand Castle site. We are working as ambassadors for the afternoon. Hope the weather is better than yesterday afternoon, the rain came down in buckets for about an hour. In fact, hope the sand sculptures are still standing after that. Also, Jazz in the Garden this afternoon, so hope the weather is good for Linda.
Keep having fun, and drive safely.

19 Aug 2007
Grace veenema
Hi You 3!Glad to see you are continuing on your way with lots of interesting stops and visits. All caught up on the blog, I see. Soon you’ll be leaving good old Canada for the USA. I’ll be leaving wednesday for the long bus ride to Sault St Marie to meet up with skipper Fred and Ines. Just couldn’t rationalize paying 3 X the price for a one way air ticket to the Sault so i will grin and bear the 13 hours…yuck! Paul will meet us in Midland after the long weekend and we will give him some introductory sailing lessons around Georgian Bay for a few days….let’s see if he has any salt in his veins…..the kind not put there by Miss Vicki’s ChipsStay safe and will continue to follow your progress. Grace

18 Aug 2007
Carol
Hi – Wow have you two ever covered alot of country. That is so awesome. Ruth and I are looking forward to coffee and a stories of your trip. Enjoy the remainder of your trip.
Carol

17 Aug 2007
judy beer
Hi from Nanaimo. Linda and I have just decided that you two are one of the wonders of Canada – your trip sounds incredible. Don’t forget that life is still good here on the Island and that your friends are eagerly awaiting your return. Massey, the apples are ripe and ready to be baked into pies. I’ve been out picking blueberries this morning and we rode the 35 K route in Bike for Your Life on Sunday. Went to the Vancouver Island Symphony in the Park last Saturday evening. We’re slugs compared to you guys, but the summer is passing too quickly. Thanks again for sharing your adventures with all of us and reminding us of what a wonderful country we share.

15 Aug 2007
Terry & John
We have returned from the lake today and am now catching up on your trip. I know you’ve travelled alot but I think this may just be the trip of a lifetime! You are going to have so many stories to tell that you may have to rent a hall and gather up all your friends. My imagination runs wild some times but seeing you sleeping in the Walmart parking lot is bringing quite a few giggles!!! Glad you “three” are having so much fun. Maybe Massey will have the pics on the laptop by the time we get to you in Sept. See you soon and drive safe. Hugs & kisses Terry

12 Aug 2007
Carole
Hi Diana & Massey & Zorro,I’ve really been enjoying reading your travel adventures (however sporadically)- could be a great “seller” someday! I heard that you were wending your way back to Saskatchewan so just wanted to let you know that the Sedgwick deck on Lancaster is available until the end of August. Maybe we’ll have a chance for a last drink on the deck and/or by the firepit afterall. Keep me posted as to your return! Take Care – Carole

07 Aug 2007
Grace
Hi Diana and MasseyWow are you guys ever behind schedule!! I’m worrying now that you Ottawa stop will run into my sailing in Lake Superior!! But it seems well worth it as you sound like you are having a wonderful time. I always come away grinning after I read up on your latest adventures.Walmart….I had no idea that you were allowed to park there….seems I am one of the few that didn’t know this but then I have been avoiding shoping there for years.I will keep checking your progress and keep my fingers crossed you will get here before I need to depart. (I am seeing if I can shift my sailing days a little later in the month.) BTW….are you planning to go back through northern Ontario on your way home via the Trans Canada?? Sudbury, North Bay etc?? Go safely,Grace

07 Aug 2007
Pat and Norm
So you spent your 1st night at a Wal-Mart! What fun you are having! It is better than driving all night in circles. Last time we did that (in Regina) we used Tim Horton’s as your teeth bruching/clean-up station. I’m sure these places get used to people walking into their washrooms with towels and all in hand, but sure felt odd to us. We didn’y find PEI so blase, but then we visited in Sept. when most of the visitors have left, and they were actually glad to get our money. Do remember that the beaches were contolled around Cavendish, but had forgoptten until you mentioned it now. Probably why we enjoyed the south coast where there aren’t many tourist traps.

05 Aug 2007
Dave Taylor
Sounds like fun, I can taste that church lobster just sitting here. We tried it there 9 years ago and still consider going back. The rest of the group are doing fine, Steve looked the best we have seen him for quite some time on Wednesday. Continue having a great time and look forward to seing you on the return run.
Dave

04 Aug 2007
Pat and Norm
Your lobster dinner sounded delicious. I’m drooling as I write. If you are in the area of Cavendish, you might want to stop at “A Spot of Tea”. Catherine McKinnon is sometimes there, and if I remember correctly, we had some delicious chowder there. Love the narrow winding roads, red soil and cliffs along the south coast. I can see it all again when reading your blog. Your trip just keeps getting better. Keep safe and enjoy.

03 Aug 2007
Al
Hi Diana & Massey,I am proud and honoured to win the coveted prize of a bottle of squeech, hopefully it is a 750 mL and not a 50 mL sample bottle.Glad you got off the Rock before the big storm.I know that “Shoestring” will get you home in comfort.Keep on blogging.

03 Aug 2007
Linda
Hi — I’ve always said that martinis were civilized!! The idea of the smartini is terribly practical (and probably life-saving on some occassions!!) Your affection for NFLD is apparent. It’s great that you’ve had such a good time there and I won’t be surprised when you say that you are making a return visit sometime. It does sound wonderful — especially the wildlife, the rugged coastlines and the friendly, fun-loving people. Hope your trip west is uneventful and as much fun as you’ve had enroute to the Atlantic shores. Your blog entries are great… good for you for persisting! Travel safely. LD, GG, KG

30 Jul 2007
Linda
Sounds as though Newfoundland has been a highlight of your trip to this point. It’s great that you are having such a good time. Travel safely and keep smiling! LD, GG, and KG, too

29 Jul 2007
marina matsuda
I have a better understanding of the trek being done. Look forward to seeing you soon. We talked about doing a old fashioned family picnic. Marina June Mitzi Seth.

26 Jul 2007
marina matsuda
I have a better understanding of the trek being done. Look forward to seeing you soon. We talked about doing a old fashioned family picnic. Marina June Mitzi Seth.

26 Jul 2007
Grace
Hi guys,
Me again….all caught up on the blog. So sorry to hear about the weather and the mechanical problems. Hopefully Weekender will be back to business again soon. Are you returning via L’Anse aux meadows and Gros Morne?? Don’t forget to go to Trinity….Monique and I did and it was fabulous. It’s a very historic town and you might see Mary Walsh striding through it as she loves the place and has a house there. If the highschool teacher who summers there is still doing walking tours of the place…take it! He’s the fellow that carries a boom box with him to add to the accounting of the local history. You might also find in a neighbouring town, the set for that TV series made based on the book called…now what was it called…something about Passages, I think….is might still be there. It depicted an authentic bay community way back in the early 1800s and gives a real picture of how harsh life was in those remote bays fishing, salting and drying cod. It was a few years back when filming finished and the set was left to the local community to benefit from a bit of tourism.The St John’s folk festival may be gearing up and you might want to see if Mr Hines is playing at the Ship Inn or perhaps at the festival….just a thought. If you see a guy with a cowboy hat and some short little person with him….just keep walking! :)Hugs
Grace

26 Jul 2007
Grace
Hi Diana and MasseyGlad to see your blog is alive and well….was starting to worry a little as my emails to you had not been answered. Glad all is well….the adventure continues.Cheers
Grace

25 Jul 2007
Johanna
We are enjoying your travel writings. Henri and Johanna

25 Jul 2007
Frann and Steve
Dear Diana and Massey,
As usual, your travelogue is engaging and thank you for the updates of your whereabouts. I’m very keen to see your trailer; if people rush to get their cameras, it must be cute! When you mentioned Sydney, my heart stopped because my uncle Don Gillies, the dancer and my mother’s only sibling, died recently in Sydney, where he had lived for the past 20 years or so. We will attend a memorial service on Thursday here in TO, at the family cemetery. Yes, I know the spookiness of the Atlantic Coast: when Francis and I were first married, he taught in N.S, and I visited him regularly. Have you encountered the fish-and-chip chain called “Harris’ Quick and Tasty”” We’re looking forward to your arrival. I assume you’re still in Nfld., although I’ve lost track of time because of a huge project I’m doing. I hope to be well finished by the time you get here. G&T doesn’t mix well with words…. Love, Frann&Steve

24 Jul 2007
Pat and Norm
Glad you arrived safely. We have always heard of the friendliness of the people from the Rock and now you have 1st hand proof. Almost sounds like home here. Enjoying your messages,

24 Jul 2007
judy beer
Hi Diana and Massey,You’re obviously having too much fun on The Rock to write. I’m sending a suggestion for the name of the Wee Kender on behalf of Dave because I think it’s a good one. He thinks you could consider calling it Discovery after Captain Vancouver’s ship in which he surveyed the west coast. I’ve just been reading about George Vancouver on a site called discovervancouver.com. He was another one of those hardy navigators who set off into uncharted territory in the 1700’s in fairly tight living quarters. Now you haven’t been in uncharted territory, but you have been discovering places you didn’t know about, and you’re living in a fairly tight space, so… Even if you don’t use the name I highly recommend that you read about George Vancouver. He was a remarkable man.

24 Jul 2007
Grace Veenema
Hi Diana,Hope you have been moose-free since your arrival. Sounds like you are having a great time. I loved the ‘Lord liftin’…. quote. Very funny.I sent you an email to your normal email address but haven’t heard so I’ll paste it in here as well just in case you find it easier that way. You’ll find it below.Great weather in the capital this week. I’m helping Steph with a renovation as she has the week off as well. In between, we are pool-side reading our books – she is into the latest Harry potter and i am reading a Sask. authour – Guy Vanderhaeghe – The Last Crossing – which I imagine you have already read. She’s still basking in the relief of passing the 2nd of 3 CA exams. 4/11 OAG candidates did not make the cut so she is one happy gal. Just one more to go in September and she will be adding CA to her BCom.Take careGrace
*************************************************** Hi everyone,Just thought I would run this idea by all of you. The Casino de Lac Leamy
over in Hull is a pretty spectacular location for a Casino and they offer
very good musical entertainment shows. I’ve been to 2 shows – the Broadway
Hits and Musical themes from Blockbuster Movies. This is excellent
entertainment.There is a new one opening on July 2….which may make getting tickets
difficult but I’m willing to go over and see what I can do asap. The
ticlets are $45 + taxes etc. for a mezzanine seat (which is quite good),
more for floor seats but I would recommend the mezzanine in any case. The
show starts at 8 PM. Here is an excerpt from the web site:”Starting August 2, the multimedia show Flower Power will invite spectators
to visit those dream years that changed the world. Do you remember the hippy
period? Revolution yes, but in colour, sun filled and on TV! Change was in
the air all around us. Down with inequality, raise consciousness, and walk
on the moon. That was yesterday… a dream… and today it’s a brand new show!On stage, in a whirlwind of images bringing back those incredible years,
fashions, and colours, ten wild and wonderful artists and musicians will
salute in their own way the undisputed “kings” of the era: The Doors, The
Mamas and the Papas, Janis Joplin, David Bowie, Robert Charlebois, Bob
Dylan, Diane Dufresne, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Harmonium, The Who and
many more.. A celebration of love and freedom, but also a unique
multisensorial experience thanks to a 2.5D volumetric projection system: by
means of holographic like effects, spectators will feel a connection to
those years when flowers were “in power.”Given this is our era….thought you might enjoy it. The seating is at
tables and drinks are served throughout the performance and some limited
food…like a cheese tray, for example. We can eat beforehand so this is
not a problem.Afterwards, we could lose some money in the slots?? I usually take $20 in
quarters and split it with Steph….she always comes out with $$….I always
come out with nothing!!Let me know what you think and I will try to get the tickets. I already know
what Paul thinks! he’s game but need to confirm the date to make sure he
can stay that long in Ottawa.I do have to warn you that the following day, Friday AM, I will have to be
gone in the morning in order to fulfill my sous-chef duties at the cook-up
at Penny and Vernon’s. But you can take whatever time or days you
need….the B&B is yours.Any idea when you might be back on the mainland and landing in Ottawa?Cheers
Grace

23 Jul 2007
Linda
Hi. Glad you are having such an interesting and enjoyable time! What you write about the Maritimes confirms and reinforces that we need to make it a priority to get there. Sounds interesting, beautiful and, in general, a wonderful part of Canada. You’ll see the humor in this, I’m sure…. went out yesterday to buy gifts for events in this order: bridal shower, Edna’s BD, your BD. Shopped for about 3 hours — found your gift right away, no luck at all with the other two! LOL Why do you suppose that happened? So I’m back on the hustings today — shower and other BD are next week. Wish me luck! Happy trails and travel safely! LD, GG, and KG

21 Jul 2007
Grace
Hi guys!Had a very long catch-up read of the blog this morning. My goodness how it makes my own trips through Quebec, NB, Cape Breton come back to me. Louisbourg, of course, Diana, Monique and I toured together some years back and she put it on the “Massey must see this list” back then. What a fantastic Canadian treasure that site is. A must see for all Canadians. Sorry Diana – no idea what the B&B was called and I don’t even recall the campsite you asked me about. I do recall that concert by the young deaf fiddler….we were so impressed that she could play and follow rythmn through vibrations in her body. Amazing.I still can’t believe how closely you two followed our sailing trip in reverse along the Bruce Penisula. We were also in Colpoy Bay, Winfield Basin and finally Dunk’s Bay (which you didn’t mention but may have walked past) and within days if not hours of each other! Where is WIFI, satellite phone service, Blackberries and cell access when you need it The escarpment seems to have blocked everything? Hope that Ottawa will still be possible around July 30-31, August 1? I am madly planning. I also have a safe parking spot for the trailer organized so you can move in with me for a few days. Zorro is welcome too, of course.Go safely,GracePS – Monique’s farewell dinner is July 26th. She’ll be leaving Canada Business as her 3 year contract is finished. Anything you would like me to pass along? I am preparing a speech and can incorporate comments from you if you like or read out an email message.

19 Jul 2007
Linda
Hi. I’ll want to be the first to read your ‘Tales from the Dark Side’ — I’m sure there are lots of laughs to be had. I imagine that a good sense of humor and a penchant for adventure are prerequisites for camping if you are essentially non-campers to begin with. Sounds like you have them both and that you are having a great time. It’s always good to hear from you. Have fun! Keep blogging! LD, GG and KG

19 Jul 2007
judy beer
HI Diana and Massey,Your trip is reminding me of the one trip I took to the Maritimes when my first son was three years old. We camped from Manitoba and saw many of the places you describe, although I’m sure they’ve grown and changed in thirty-three years. I remember many things, but one was that there were very good fried clams in New Brunswick! Haven’t found their like since. I’m reading The Birth House right now. It’s set in a small village on the Bay of Fundy during The First World War. If you haven’t read it, you’d probably find it interesting. Which route are you planning to take coming home?

16 Jul 2007
Linda
Hi Diana,What a lot of countryside and history you’ve covered in your travels! Thanks for taking the time to record it. It’s interesting to read. Glad you didn’t run into any snakes!!! 🙂 Travel safely. Keep blogging! XOXO LD and GG (KG, too)

15 Jul 2007
Linda
Hi. It’s great to log on and read your updates. Also nice to know that you are having a good trip. Tomorrow, we’re off to Campbell River and a zodiac Wildlife Adventure Tour. Then home in time to catch “Anything Goes” at Chemainus and dinner afterwards. A three day BD adventure! Who could ask for more? 🙂 Travel safely. We’ll look forward to your next entry.Linda and Gord (Keltie, too)

10 Jul 2007
Judy and David Beer
We’re off on a little camping jaunt ourselves tomorrow – just over to Port Renfrew via the back road from Lake Cowichan. It’s supposed to be in good condition. This is Sunny’s holiday. She hasn’t been camping for several years and she always enjoys the excitement of new places. We’ll have to be careful with her near the water though because there are strong waves and currents over there. The weather is supposed to get up into the thirties this week so it’s a good time for the west coast. We’re really enjoying your comments. Doesn’t Ontario seem to go on forever? Take care, Judy and Dave

09 Jul 2007
mitzi
Hi it feels like we are travelling with you albeit from a distance.Seth is playing a tune on the acoustic as I write. Tomorrow he goes for training for a summer job at Parks & Rec. Let us know when you get close to Toronto. Bye for now. Say hi to Zorro from us.

09 Jul 2007
Pat and Norm
Hi,
We also loved Massey, the town as well as the person! We have spent great holidays camping at Chutes Prov. Park there. Also came close up and personal with a skunk there, but that is another story. Enjoying your trip. Keep up the commentary,

08 Jul 2007
Linda
Hi! It’s good to hear from you and know that all is well. The Canadian Shield is immense and very beautiful. I always marvel at people who actually make the trip and get to Toronto. Several years ago, we set out from Wpg enroute to Toronto and only made it to Sault St. Marie before our time was up! It was a good trip even though we didn’t make our destination. We are enjoying wonderful weather on the Island right now – bright, blue skies and a mild breeze to keep the temps comfortable. Had dinner with the Beers last night..Mexican … it was delicious and we really enjoyed the visit with them. We sat outside until nearly 10 p.m. It was so pleasant. Off to do some gardening followed by office work followed by dinner with Richard and Sheila. Travel safely. Don’t let the bugs bite and beware soft gravel roads. XOXO Linda and Gord (Keltie, too)

07 Jul 2007
Linda
Hi Diana and Massey,Sounds as though you are having a great time — just need a helping of mosquitos and horseflies to revive the true prairie summertime feeling, right? We had a good time in Seattle — lots of walking, sightseeing, laughs and two good ballgames at Safeco Field (a great stadium!) Tell Massey that I’m now an Ichiro fan and will look forward to comparing his batting style with Ichiro’s! We’re off to Campbell River and a wildlife adventure tour for my BD (Gord’s surprise present to me) — he had to tell me because I was busy lining up all kinds of things for us to do (he just shakes his head at me!) Loved reading your blog and will keep checking in to track your progress. Here’s a question — how are you going to manage a visit to an igloo in your quest to visit the seven wonders of Canada? 🙂 Lots of love to you both — snuggles for Zorro! LD and GG (Keltie, too)

05 Jul 2007
Grace Veenema
Hi Diana and MasseyI am writing to you from Thornbury from a local library (love those CAP and Librarynet locations). We are waiting for wind and dry weather before sailing north towards Tobermory. We’re all set – just need some wind from the right direction.Your site seems to stop at June 29th? Where are you now? Still at your sister’s perhaps? Looking forward to the next entry. Stay safe.Cheers
Grace

04 Jul 2007
Frann and Steve
DearDiana and Massey,
Your travelogue sent shivers down my spine. Travelling through the Drumheller area is like being in a diorama or an IMAX film, isn’t it” I love it. As you know, the Tyrrell is considered one of the top 10 museums of the world and, yes, the displays of pre-dinosaur fossils are amazing! I also love walking through the room of ancient plants and ferns. Please say hi to your mom and to SK. Reading your comments makes me a bit nostalgic for the Prairies, although it was, in fact, the wind that I liked the least because it was always ruffling my “feathers.” Can’t wait to see you two! I’m looking forward to celebrating the start of summer with our gin and tonic (I’ve cheated only twice, strictly because of thirst!). Happy Canada Day! Love, Frann and Steve

01 Jul 2007
Judith Beer
Hi Diana and Massey,We’re enjoying your comments. We got home from California on Thursday, and although we traveled through some glorious scenery, it felt good to be back in this beautiful country of ours. Say hi to your mom for us. Are you planning a stop in Winnipeg?Judy and Dave

30 Jun 2007
Terry & John
Happy Travellers – Hope we get to see you when you hit Saskatoon. We’re heading to the lake tomorrow – Thursday with grandsons. Will be back on Sunday. Wish we could have been retired & then we could have done this trip together – lots of wine to be consummed. Love ya and travel safe. Terry

28 Jun 2007
Frann and Steve
Hi,
Isn’t it wonderful that we can travel with you in some way” We’re dying to see the RV and to greeting you two at our front door. Have any idea when you might arrive” In case I didn’t mention it, our phone is the same number: 905-731-9996. I’m glad to hear Zorro is being a good boy; Tassie seems to be suffering with something and the vet is trying to help us find out what. He may put her on medication. Maybe it’s the new house that is upsetting her. Love, Frann and Steve

26 Jun 2007
Pat and Norm
Wishing we were with you. Keep us up to date. Have a great time.
Love

26 Jun 2007
Lyn N
We were surprised at the internet connection at your first stop !
We were out with Pat and Sally last night ..told them about your trip and showed pictures of Wee-Kender.
We will be following your route on our map and wishing we were there with our van !
All the best L `n N

25 Jun 2007
bill and marie
Hi GuysHope you brought your fire extinguisher in case you make some beer can chicken!!!!! LOL
Good luck on your trip….. happy travels and stay safe!Bill, Marie, Tara, Andrew and Bridget
Brandie and kahlua too!

24 Jun 2007
Grace Veenema
Hi Massey and Diana,Got the blog notice and will certainly follow your travels along. You two are really something!I will be away sailing until about July 15th….hope you will not miss me in Ottawa. I’ll follow your travels and find out how fast you make your way across the country.The little trailer was ever so cute and looks very practical.Drive carefully and enjoy yourselves.

24 Jun 2007
18 Oct 2011 – start of travelblog