In September while we were wandering the displays at Truxpo, Ralph checked out the BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology) and VCC (Vancouver Community College) booths and started chatting with instructors that he knew from 11 years ago. At that time Ralph did some substitute instructing in the heavy duty department at both colleges. Now, when Ralph said that he was retired they immediately started talking about the shortage of substitute instructors. Well, that idea had not occurred to us but started some serious discussions. We knew we would be in Surrey for a few months and Ralph would enjoy the outside stimulation.
October 9th Ralph spent his first day at VCC instructing the Fundamentals class which is an introductory class for prospective heavy duty careers. In October he worked seven days at VCC and got into the swing of teaching. The calls can be planned in advance or last minute when someone is sick. He enjoyed getting out in a new environment with new people.
Ocotber 10th Dave and Danica headed for Surrey to celebrate Thanksgiving and October birthdays, Danica the 10th and mine on the 20th. Saturday morning they met us at Fort Langley for the Cranberry Festival. The vendors and entertainment have grown considerably. The fire truck was very popular as kids could sit in the truck and then use the fire hose to knock over pylons.
The dunk tank drew attention as the manager of the Remax office climbed onto the seat still dressed in his suit. We pooled our cash and met the challenge with 23 dollars and 50 cents for Danica to throw 5 balls. She came close and there was much cheering all around us. He did eventually get dunked in his suit.
“Cranberries are delicious, but bacon makes everything better” was the slogan for “Well Seasoned” a gourmet food shop in Langley that tempts us with many useful/decadent/unusual items.
We all love Granville Island Market. The birds may not love being chased by the kids but they certainly come back hoping for food.
Danica wanted bread crumbs to feed the birds but no one sells bird crumbs/crusts. When we went into a bakery they gave us the crumbs and end pieces from the slicing machine. We saved our bread treats for home but Danica was anxious to use her crumbs.
She was even more popular when she shared her bag of crumbs with other kids and the birds hardly knew which way to turn.
Everyone was sad when the bag was empty.
The cement plant on the island has entered into the festive feel of the island.
Climbing the White Rock is always a challenge.
Balancing on a log is even more challenging with outside help.
Beyond the White Rock, the Peace Arch at the US border beckons.
Snowy Mount Baker keeps watch over the two countries.
We enjoy looking at the snow and ice but are very glad it's many miles away.
Crabbing is popular from the dock.
We had a great family weekend and and continued to create memories and celebrate birthdays.
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