Greetings All,
You may or not know that we returned to Ontario so that I could apply for a Visa so I do not get asked a lot of questions when I return to the UK from our travels. The Visa is good for two years, then after passing a test "Life In The UK" I can apply for a Visa for "Indefinite Leave To Remain" in the UK. Our flight was uneventful and we arrived almost a hour early due to some good tail winds. The drive across the city was pure hell as we were in the evening rush hour. We finally arrived at the Hosier/Pagazani household after a drive that was almost two hours, even the limo driver found it exasperating. Our friends have graciously opened their home to us during our stay in Canada as they headed off to Florida for ten days and we minded my buddy O'Malley, Gracie the budgie and Snowflake a Siamese fighting fish.
On April 28th we left bright and early to head downtown to have Biometrics (finger prints and mug shot) taken as well as provide the paper submission of the application. They want to know everything possible about you except when you had your kids. Fred had to give over his drivers license and get a special visitors pass in order to come into the next room with me for the fingerprinting etc. While waiting we are somewhat entertained by the stupidity of the people who attend to get visa's for the UK. One lady is applying for her kids and gets quite upset when they ask questions about the father. Either they are estranged, divorced, dead or she doesn't know who he is. The poor clerk was trying to be diplomatic and I am trying not to start laughing as Fred and I nudge each other on the QT but avoid looking at each other. We also watch a film about Britain and sit there and say been there, know that and so on. The film also mentions a fee you can pay to fast track your visa. We ask about it, but for settlement which is what my Visa is for they do not allow it. So we were told it can take up to ten weeks for approval. I of course expected it to take the full ten weeks, so now we planned time to visit with friends and family. While downtown we drop into our old work places for a quick hello and I am asked would I work while I am back to help out with summer relief. Are they F#$%$%#$# crazy!!!
Our first visit was with Derek, Carol and Liz in Mississauga for a BBQ and we had a great time catching up with them over a steak dinner. Sadly Dyna, Liz's dog is on her last legs and after a ripe old age had to go to doggy heaven later in the week. Every day for the balance of the week is busy with short visits to friends and family as well as attending to business with our ScotiaMcLeod Financial Advisor and of course some shopping.
Lo and behold, the visa was approved on May 12th and my passport and all of the documentation was couriered back to the house on May 13th.
The Hosier/Pagazni family returned from Florida and we headed off to North Bay on May 14th for the weekend to see Geoff and Tracey and her family. We had a great time and unfortunately the boys are the big Euchre winners this time. But then again you have to let them win sometimes so they will keep playing LOL. Our next stop is Collingwood for a visit with Eve-Lyn and Jim both Scotiabankers. Eve-Lyn being the smart individual she is has retired and Jim may soon join her. Our last stop on this circuit is to visit my Mom who lives between London and Chatham. The drive is wonderful as we traveled there on the back roads and it was very scenic. I had forgotten how nice Ontario can be when you are not on the 400 series highway.
On May 20th we headed back to Oshawa and again chose a back road route from Kitchener to Oshawa. What a eye opener that was. A five hour drive but now all we see is development. Housing popping up everywhere and farmland disappearing plus the prices are unbelievable. Urban sprawl at its worst.
May 21st saw us have a great day out with Tom and Doreen. We visited St Jacobs and Elora. I am rather disappointed because St. Jacobs which, used to be a quaint Mennonite community has become very commercialized. Sad but as they say the times they are a changing. Our last visit is with Steve and Karen Hickey and Steve Hummel our friend for over 35 years. We have a great time reminiscing about Glenda who sadly lost her battle with cancer in March.
May 22nd, Party Time!! Michelle planned a party for Fred as he was returning home on the 25th plus it was the May 24 long weekend. A feast as always. We were spoilt and I must say I will miss the great food especially as I did not have to cook.
May 25th was sad day as Fred was on his way back to the UK. His trip was uneventful except for some old farts on the plane who he says should not have been allowed out (several were sitting in the wrong seats). The trip also raised a question of security as one old dear got on the wrong plane????
For the last few days I have just chilled out with the family, relaxed in the pool and caught some rays. My next report will be from Vancouver and I'll let you know how my travels went. Hard to believe but this will be the first time I am traveling on my own since I have been married. Let's hope I am not one of those Old Farts Fred so admires LOL.
I would also be remiss if I did not Thank the Hosier /Pagazani family for their generosity and hospitality while we stayed in Ontario when we were not off traveling and visiting family and friends. Truly Our Home away from Home.
Till then Ta Ra for now.
Sandy
