Tuesday, July 6 Location: Merrickville, Ontario

(finally have wifi)

There was Doug, standing on the dock waiting for us as we approached the marina outside the capital city of Canada – Ottawa. We had missed the Queen by one day – she had flown over for the July 1rst Independence Day anniversary, and we were there the 2nd.

We got Doug settled in with his “assignments” and the next morning went on down the canal to the center of Ottawa, tied up to the wall on the canal that goes right through the city , and proceeded on foot for a quick tour. We viewed the 8 steps (locks) that lead through the city down to the Ottawa River. Everyone is outside enjoying the weather; skating, biking, kids and families out walking or running, or just enjoying being outside. There is a park that runs all along both sides of the canal for miles and miles, which is converted into the world’s largest skating rink in the winter. An open market in the center of town also encourages visitors, and there’s a beach near the city and, not surprising, as the weather was HOT, was crowded. The folks up north really enjoy their summer; and never hear anyone complaining about the heat (like we do). What a change in the temperature compared to just a few days ago.

We stopped here in Merrickville again on our return trip on the Rideau and arrived last night. The weather is as hot here as it is in Tampa – low 90’s. We’ve spent so much of our time in the water, just trying to keep cool – even got Bear and Barbie in the water. Had to cool them off and they seemed to really enjoy it. They didn’t fight us at all. They have a Walmart and a major grocery store here, so we made a visit and left a donation - $$$$. Chinese buffet for dinner.
A few examples as to the courteousness of the Canadian folks---

We lost a fender recently due to a poorly tied knot by one of the crew. Shortly after, I mentioned it to a gentleman who said he had an extra fender at home that did not fit his boat and would bring it to us. Later that evening, it was tied on to Tadpole. Another example, a family having a picnic had forgotten their corkscrew and asked to borrow one. Returned it with a bottle of his home made wine, which was delicious. There are many other tales we could tell, but this is already lengthy enough.

Tony I - so glad all is well with you!