October 14th

Hi to everyone at home, I hope things are going well, and that La Ronge is not snowed in yet (for your sake Mom). Lecia, the three of us want to wish you a happy birthday and hope you and William have a safe trip home!

The ferry trip over was beautiful, it was neat to see such different coastal geology and landscape to that of Sask. We also stopped in Nanaimo to visit 3 old friends, professors at Malaspina University College, who led the field trip in Belize which Holly and I both attended. It was great to see you guys Ed, Tim, and Wendy. It just so happened that when we showed up they were having a meeting with students to discuss the 2007 trip, that was a crazy coincidence!

We're having a great time hanging out with an awesome host. Matt (Schissel) has taken us out on the town, showed us some cool shops, climbing areas, scenic areas, and has introduced us to his crew. Jeff now refers to Victoria as his future home. There are nearly enough Starbucks to satiate his appetite for pumpkin spiced lattes, nearly…

Climbing has been nice here too, there's a neat outdoor bouldering spot in town called Flemming park that we checked out, right on the ocean. We also had a long session at the gym last night (it's cool, as it stays open until 1130 on week days, a bonus for procrastinators who don't leave the house until ~ 8pm). The sun's been out the whole time, a supposed anomaly for this time of year I guess.

Holly and I spent friday biking around the coast of Victoria and captured some amazing views. The landscape is so green and beautiful, with lots of different trees and shrubs. We're all falling in love with the city, as it has such a nice feel to it, and everyone is so active and happy (and EVERYONE has a dog that they walk along the coast). It is such a progressive city too with all the green buildings, spaces, and ideas. Holly and I would both like to spend more time here!

We’ll hit the road tomorrow morning and head south. Jeff and I have been exercising our minds, and our poker faces, in preparation for the anticipated poker fest in Vegas… Holly and I have to pay for the trip somehow!

Everybody take care, Gabe it was great to hear from you. You and the Calow’s better stay out of trouble up in LA while we’re gone.

It was good to hear from you too MC Hammered, and everyone keep in touch. Peace out.