Got lucky Friday... a day off, done an appointment early ( planning a blog on the appointment), happen to have my camera ( yes I took this picture.. Mike - eat your shorts)
So I decided to play tourist in my own town. Which is something most of don't do.
Believe it or not, I've live in Paradise for over 30 years, sailed its waters, lived at both ends of the Rideau Canal lock system, but NEVER ONCE have I actually seen a boat go through a set of locks.
This time I did.. an hour going down and started watching how they do things in reverse to get boats up... right here at the beginning.. as the Rideau Canal dumps into the Ottawa River.
Its so kwel.. I can't begin to tell ya... I did an "omg" !!!! such a simple system, so labour intensive, so beautiful.... still doing it like they did almost 200 years ago.
And then there is the history of the Irish laborers who died building these locks - a war effort - and they died of malaria. I finally saw the Irish Cross that was erected a couple of years to commemorate those who lost their lives building the canal.
Next year I want to be a lock monkey ( if only the lock master would stop playing with his keys.. but he stays as cute).
5 comments:
Wish I was there.
Love your little dragon on the side.
Thanks for the tour.
Well, LGS... you'll have to get your furry little tail over here and we'll do a walk-about.... maybe even see if any of your old haunts are around.
You'll be amazed at how much our Alma Mata has expanded and continues to do so !!!
Of course spring/summer/fall would be the best as you know how horrible winter can be in Paradise and tons of stuff, including the locks, will be shut down.
Dr. John.. my pleasure - its always fun to try and see your town through the eyes of a tourist.
I too rather like the dragon.. that motto has been a favourite of mine for awhile :)
Oh I am sooooo looking forward to hanging with you!!! (IF I survive England that is.....)
Yeah.. you'll need the break.... my life is so boring ... just get to ooogle lock masters.
Maybe we can do a tarot card session ???? Read your cards !!!!
Wonder if we can corrupt some Mounties (for Drowsey - likely not as they are getting really anal about certain pictures they will pose for) or Governor General Foot Guards...
...adding a picture to the blog now of these bear skin wearing fellows.
Don't forget sunblock or what ever you use,as well, both for here and South.
I'm now on hurricane watch... travel going to Sint Maarten could be a bit of an experience, as its hurricane season - like it was last year and I spent a day in hell in Pearson. I may need a bra to cry on.
At least this year I got my cell phone unlocked so I an call the Islands directly versus using my Dad as a "phone runner".
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