Hatrock Traveller

2010 Travels

2010-12-06T11:25:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted in forever, but wanted to give myself a summary of all my travels this past year. Most of the photos can be found on my Facebook album. My work travels have come to an end as I resigned my road warrior position. It's been the best 4 years of my life. I will never forget it.

January
Two weeks in Topeka, Kansas.

February
Two weeks in Topeka, Kansas.

March
Five days in Vegas.
Two weeks in Topeka and a weekend in Kansas City.

April
Two weeks in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos.
A weekend in Jasper, skiing.

May
Two weeks in Topeka and a weekend in Kansas City.

June
One week in Nashville, Tennessee.

July
Five days in Kelowna, BC.
Ten days, a week home, then a week in Glendale/Los Angeles. Met the band Yes backstage!

August
A day in Vancouver, BC and a weekend in Seattle, WA to see Rush live.
A week in Glendale, CA.
A weekend in San Francisco.
A week in Glendale, CA.
A weekend at home for the cabin party.
A week in Glendale.

September
A weekend in Jasper. Columbia Ice Fields, Mt. Edith Cavell.

October
A weekend in Airdrie, Banff, Lake Louise. Took the gondola. Went to the Rose and Crown and saw a band called Kovered In Lies. Next day drove the Banff Parkway. Castle Mountain, Lake Louise, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, David Thompson Country, Abraham Lake.
A weekend in Calgary for a wedding at the Calgary Country Club.

November
I didn't go anywhere for the first time in a loooong time.

December
No plans to go anywhere.

Google, Kansas!

2010-03-02T15:53:00.000-08:00

Looks like Topeka went and renamed itself to Google!

The Big Apple!!!

2009-06-25T22:20:00.000-07:00

Michael Jackson died at 50 today and Farrah Fawcett died from cancer at 62. Sad. I've always liked MJ's music and he left one HUGE music legacy behind. For Farrah, I think I'm still in love with her flowing feathery blonde hair.

Well anyway, since June 22, 2009, I've been in New York! There's a few other trips I took before that, but I thought I'd blog about this exciting city while I'm here. I flew through Montreal-Trudeau and was able to get my 3 year TN-Visa. Whew.

Some of my friends didn't believe me, but I'm actually working at the United Nations, and way up on the 34th floor. Got my access pass and everything. They say there's 5000 people in the building at a time and I can attest to that. 20 minute wait to get into an elevator going down and a very busy cafeteria. So many cultures in one place. Quite amazing really.

It's my fourth night, and what I have I seen so far?

- Grand Central Station - very nice
- Yale Club (DKE Club of NY) - whoa. Posh posh posh. Shut the place down on the 165th anniversary of Delta Kappa Epsilon with several brethren after teaching them how to drink Canadian Club. Got lots of pictures and played a few pianos on each floor.
- walked around East Midtown a lot
- Grand Lodge of New York building (visited Arcana Lodge -- more on that later)

There's a million Irish pubs around here and the buildings are WAAAAAY taller than I expected.

More adventures to come!

Seattle Underground

2009-03-07T11:31:00.000-08:00

At the end of February 2009, I flew out to Vancouver and rented a car, a PT Cruiser, where I spent an evening watching Oilers then Canucks hockey at a golf course with the brother of my old friend from way, way back who have lived in North Vancouver since the mid-80's. We also headed out to a pub and then the casino in Burnaby, which was HUGE.

I then drove to Bellevue, Washington where my sister and her family live. They just moved to their new home about a year ago.

The wait at the border was a couple hours and when it was my turn with the border guard, and upon looking at my passport, wondered why my TN-Visa had expired and I stupidly said, "Yeah, I haven't worked in the U.S. for a while." At that point, he began barraging me with all sorts of questions, thinking I was coming down to work there. I kept saying that I was just visiting my sister for a few days. I searched my trunk, my laptop case and asked about my fraternity. I was very annoyed. He finally gave me my passport back and just said bye. Well, bye to you too. Jerk.

There was some rain on Interstate Hwy 5 but arriving at my sister's was like coming home, although I hadn't been to their new house yet, which is up a hill on a couple windy roads. Lots of evergreens around obviously. It was great to see her husband and the kids.

My nephew has massively improved his cello playing since last I saw him play 2.5 years before that. It was a real treat to have him play the Star Wars theme for me... especially being that Star Wars was the very first movie I saw at the ripe age of 5, and it was also the first popular song I learned to play on the piano. He then played some bass guitar for me and was mighty impressed, that as a bass player myself, he didn't use a pick and noted that he had the true groove inside. With his longer hair, he'd definitely do well on stage.

My sister and I went shopping at a local mall where I bought some CDs (The Flower Kings, Yes Drama extended version, and Lewis Black Live at Carnegie Hall). Then at the Nordstroms Outlet, I bought a lime green shirt with a funky pink/green paisley tie and some cool brown pointy shoes. While in line to pay, she grabbed the shoes from me and said, "Happy Birthday!" Aw.

When we got back, I showed the new cool shoes to my niece and said, "What do you think of your uncle's shoes?" And she said, "Whatever." (Jeez, shot down by a 9 year old. I just can't win with the ladies...lol) Gawd, she's too cute to describe.

My niece took one of her free days off to be with her uncle, so my sister drove us to the Seattle Underground. What a cool adventure! Words don't describe it, so here are some pictures...

That night or the next night, I can't remember, my nephew got a Scouting award, so we went to his troop meeting and potluck. Apparently, he's the youngest Scout at his age to be at the level he's at. My sister noted that it's difficult for a tall, smart, well-adjusted boy to have advanced beyond kids his age and yet not fully socially accepted with older kids who are at the same maturity level. He's kind of stuck in-between, but give it a couple years and he'll be fine.

The next day, I then drove back to Vancouver, which in the mountains, there was quite a bit of snow, and listening to Lewis Black kept me going. I love it when he talks about border security. So lo and behold, after filling up on cheap gas, about 200 metres before the Canadian border, U.S. border guards in full black gear were standing next to their black SUV, so I stopped and they asked me all sorts of questions, and some on my sister when I told them, "Actually, they just got their green cards the other day." Whew. Upon stopping at the Canadian border, the guard scanned my passport, didn't ask any questions, and just say, "Thanks." O Canada!

My visit to Golden Rule Lodge (Grand Lodge of Canada in the Province of Ontario)

2008-09-17T12:33:00.000-07:00

Monday September 8, 2008 (Ontario)

I drove up from my hotel in Vaughan to Orillia to meet fellow e-Mason, Bro. Shawn, which distance was much, much further than I expected. Several roadside businesses and places were like ghost towns

Needless to say, Shawn wasn't what I expected either. Mind you, I didn't have any expectations other than I knew he was a good contributing member of this board, a Mason, and a fellow Canadian. Well, he exceeded all those expectations and more.

So we drove up north even further, saw a gas station on fire with firefighters on hand. The thing was burned to a crisp. We finally arrived at his lodge in Gravenhurst, a small town with old shops and there on the main street, a little door with steep stairs taking you to the street front landing area where brethren put on their aprons.

But before that, we went to the church basement next door where we had a hearty banquet served by ladies from the church. Followed by a speech from the DDGM (this was his official visit), the brethren continued to the lodge.

The lodge room was very nice (pics to come soon) and I noted the many similarities to mine and when the brethren were seated and the openings and closings in all three degrees were done perfectly, I noted the following:

- While all Ontario lodges are supposedly "Canadian Rite", the three lesser lights surrounded the altar as we would find in the U.S. and in Alberta and BC Ancient York Lodges.

- "Worshipful Sir" not "Worshipful Master"

- The Immediate Past Master sits on the WM's right, not left

- When coming to order, the p. signs are held where we 'finish' them off. (Arms must get sore for some of the older guys.)

Other than that, the ritual wording was 99% the same and music to my ears.

There was a real nice relaxing feel to the lodge while all the protocols and traditions were maintained.

The brethren were very welcoming and interested in meeting me.

After the meeting, all the brethren went up to the third floor where a nice Coke machine dispensed $2 beer!

So there I was with Bro. Shawn, the Worshipful Master, and a retired policeman drinking Molson Canadian, eating Timbits (Tim Horton doughnut holes), and us sharing various stories about pulling over Eric Lindros for speeding, meeting Bobby Orr, Gordie Howe, seeing Shane Corson and Tie Domi get the shit beat out of them outside a bar, and making fun the Toronto Maple Leafs.

You really can't get more Canadian than that.

It now being 12:30am, on our way back to my rental car, with rain coming down, I couldn't start the car started due to my stupidity in leaving the lights on. So Shawn kindly drove to his house to get jumper cables and back we went and I was on my way for a 150km trip in massive rain.

A fantastic night. And I also know why Shawn's username is bncprez, but I'm not going to share. You'll have to visit his lodge to find out.

Thanks again Shawn. It's guys like you and your welcoming lodge who make Masonry truly worthwhile for this traveller.

Jasper then T Dot

2008-08-29T13:15:00.001-07:00

Going to Jasper this Labour Day long weekend for a few days of relaxation.

Then the day after I'm off to T Dot (Toronto) in an area called Kleinburg for some contract work until the 12th. This will be my first time movin' and shakin' in the Toronto area. Am I looking forward to it? No, no I am not, but we'll see. You never know.

Houston, you have a problem

2008-08-29T13:10:00.000-07:00

Last week, me and four fellow co-workers, two from Cowtown (Calgary), and two from Hogtown (Toronto) headed on down to Houston, Texas to meet up with one of our software vendors for several days of training. We stayed in Kemah, Texas, in a house right on Galveston Bay. With several bars within two blocks, needless to say, it was a great time. Karaoke, piano playing, and a trip to Galveston for some seafood made it a fun, worthwhile trip.

View Larger Map

Peter's Drive-In

2008-07-18T09:39:00.000-07:00

Being a true blue Edmontonian and Oilers fan, I'm not a big fan of Calgary. Call me jaded. Call me loopy, but it is what it is. Besides the airport, I haven't spent any time there in 25 months. I used to go all the time. My company even has an office there. I'm even working on two projects for companies based there.

If there's one thing Cowtown has going for it, it's Peter's Drive-In. Shoebox fries. Rootbeer shakes. Greesy double patty burgers. Love it. Always a good stop for a busload of drunk skiers on the way to the mountains to recharge the batteries.

Anyway, the founder, Gus Pieters, just passed away. I hope it stays open. I love the fact that despite being asked numerous times to franchise it, he's refused. Could you imagine if there was one open in Edmonton? What would Calgary have going for it then? The Stampede? Um, yeah, it's great to see so many oil executives and politicians in cowboy get-up and yuppies who put on a hat and wait in long lines to pay $20 cover at the same shitty bars to drink $7 beer. Real fun...lol..

So without further adieu, I give you...

Life is Golden

2008-06-24T19:53:00.000-07:00

Over the June 20 weekend, a lodge brother and I took a trip to Golden, BC for some whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River. He brought a waterproof disposable camera and probably has some amazing photos, but for now, here are some pics I took of the town, the scenery and our trip up the Icefields Parkway in Alberta.

We also saw a really cool band, The Steve Elmo Murphy Band. They're like a younger Blue Rodeo mixed with some reggae and blues. With songs like "Baby I'm Drunk", it's tonnes of fun. In fact, I liked 'em so much, I bought both their CDs.

Anyway, absolutely breathtaking postcard scenes...

Trailer Park Boys

2008-05-30T14:48:00.000-07:00

The past week I was in Alexandria, Virginia again, wrapping up the project.

Now on to other things... like The Trailer Park Boys, who are live at the River Cree Casino in Edmonton tonight. I'm going with my boss, who's wife got him tickets for his birthday. She called me a month ago to tell me I'm going with him.

I've never seen them live, so I have no idea what to expect. Beer, guns, music probably. Rawk!

"Now fuck off, I've got work to do."

House of the Temple

2008-04-27T23:10:00.000-07:00

Two historic Masonic buildings visited in two days...

Thursday April 24, 2008, I made another trip to the George Washington Masonic Memorial and Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22 for their regular meeting, which wasn't so regular, as it was their annual Charter Night, where the lodge was opened in the Colonial Replica Room, which is a copy of the original Alexandria Lodge that Bro. George Washington attended. Over 30 visitors were in attendance, many from Florida, one from Wyoming, and one from the U.K., which was nice to see a familiar looking apron style to mine! (If you're not aware, American Masons wear a different style of apron than Canadian and English brethren.)

On Friday April 25, 2008, I made a visit to the House of the Temple of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, U.S. Southern Jurisdiction, headquarters for the Supreme Council 33rd Degree. The building is located in basically a residential neighbourhood in the north downtown area of Washington, DC on 16th Street between S and R Streets. It faces West (for obvious reasons to any Mason).

The amazing part for me was the curved, multi-tiered library, which is entirely dedicated to Masonic and related philosophical works. Now I know why some say that Freemasonry is one of the most written about subjects ever. This library and its extensive collection is prove-positive of that. It's certainly a room that I could spend hours ... make that years, studying in.

Lots of photos... but they still do not do it justice...

DC at Night

2008-04-21T21:12:00.000-07:00

My last night in DC before I headed to Kansas took me to the National Mall again, but this time, at night. Enjoy the photos...

Masonic Spring Workshop 2008!!!

2008-04-16T20:21:00.000-07:00

Awesome. There's no other word to describe it.

Once again, the Masonic Spring Workshop in Alberta was absolutely awesome. Keynote speaker, WBro. Chris Hodapp, author of "Freemasons for Dummies", "Templar Code for Dummies", "Conspiracy Theories and Secret Societies for Dummies", and "Solomon's Builders" as well as fellow Knight of the North, Chris' speech on Friday opened with a poke at Britney Spears where he certainly got our attention. After that, he described his journey at rebuilding a lodge and starting a new one, as well as creating Levant Preceptory, a true medieval depiction of Masonic Templarism. Chris was inspiring, funny, and entertaining, and I most especially enjoyed the conversation over scotch in my lodge's hospitality suite on Friday.

The talk in all the hospitality suites and at the pub was how well Bro. Hodapp was able to "set the tone" in a positive direction for the whole workshop. Everyone was in a great mood and lots of ideas were exchanged. Lots of laughs.

While I normally don't make it out for the Saturday morning sessions, I did make an afternoon one put on by Workshop Chairman, Bruce Zawalski on the ancient Scottish Masonic "Kirkwall Scroll". He provided some excellent scholarly work and challenged us to make our own conclusions on whether the scroll was a lecture board or floor mat and what it was for.

As I implied, the deep late night conversations over scotch are really what it's all about--meeting fellow Masons from around the province and talking about Freemasonry, mostly in a spiritual-esoteric sense. One late night talk by the lobby fire with an old friend about comparing Zen Buddhism with Masonry was most enlightening.

The senior officers from my lodge were there and it was just a great bonding experience for us as well.

There was a wonderful Masonic spirit in the air. Even taking a personal walk along the mountain paths to one of the most spectacular views you'll ever see, hanging out with the fauna, all helped me reconnect with the Divine. The weather was perfect. The sun was shining.

Next year, Bro. Craig (our DDGM) and I are planning a pre-workshop ski trip to Banff if anyone is interested. We went skiing the day the workshop started, and I got a nasty sun burn which is now making me look like a clown.

Next year's workshop features many things, but one new idea is "Masonic Idol" where brethren get 2 minutes to deliver a bit of initiation ritual of their choice and they'll be judged on passion, accuracy, and other aspects.

We'd better see more of you come next year.

A big thanks to RWBro. Craig Shutt for the drive down, the skiing, beers, and impeccable snoring, Bro. Bruce Zawalski for chairing and putting on a most amazing weekend and to Bro. Mitch Cammidge for being really entertaining throughout and for hanging out with me very late Saturday/Sunday morning.

Photos!

Banff, Sunshine, Kananaskis Country

2008-04-10T11:47:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm off on a trip to beautiful Banff, Alberta with my lodge brother and DDGM, Craig. We're skiing at Sunshine Village for one day, then to Kananaskis for the "funnest Masonic event you'll ever experience", the annual Masonic Spring Workshop where fellow Knight of the North and Masonic author, Chris Hodapp will be the keynote speaker on the topic, "Freemasonry: What do we have to offer?" I told Chris that at my lodge's hospitality suite that night, we have scotch to offer.

Isn't Alberta just beautiful?

DC KS DC

2008-04-03T15:19:00.000-07:00

I've been back home for a few weeks now after spending almost two weeks in Alexandria and DC. I'll make a separate post for that 'cause we saw a lot of things. Even made it out to Annapolis, Maryland and saw Davy Jones from The Monkees perform.

Saw The Cult this past week here in E-Town. Billy Duffy is still one of my favourite guitar players.

Next weekend (Apr 10-11), I'm going skiing to Sunshine Village in Banff, Alberta with my friend and Masonic mentor, Craig, and then apres-ski, we join 250 other Masons for the Alberta Masonic Spring Workshop in scenic Kananaskis Country. This year's workshop is featuring WBro. Chris Hodapp, author of "Freemasons for Dummies" among many other books, as the key-note speaker.

All brethren in attendance are welcome to join the traditional Ivanhoe Lodge Hospitality Suite on the Friday 11th night.

After that I'm now booked to return to Alexandria and DC, then a weekend stint from April 18-21 in Topeka and Kansas City. And yes, I'll most definitely be heading to my most favouritist pub in the whole world, Frances O'Dooley's, featuring Rich "The Irish Rebel" Stevenson.

Then back to DC for another week of work.

Whew.

Happy Leap Year Day!

2008-02-29T10:33:00.000-08:00

Just 'cause it only comes around every four years, except on century years not evenly divisible by 400, I'd like to officially wish you all a Happy Leap Year Day!!!

Also, I was only 6 days away from being born on Feb. 29.

Why does February get the short end of the stick when it comes to days? Well, back in the day, July (Julius) and August (Augustus) only had 30 days, but then each of the aforementioned Roman Emperors attributed to said months had big ego's so they stole days from February to add to their month.

So what of February? From Wikipedia:

February was named after the Latin term februum, which means purification, via the purification ritual Februa held on February 15 in the old Roman calendar. January and February were the last two months to be added to the Roman calendar, since the Romans originally considered winter a monthless period. They were added by Numa Pompilius about 700 BC. February remained the last month of the calendar year until the time of the decemvirs (c. 450 BC), when it became the second month.

Now you know.

"Helping Kids and Drivin' Segways"

2008-02-24T23:24:00.000-08:00

Something you don't see everyday... a Shriner on a Segway at the Presidents' Day Parade in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia.

How to crash a Republican party

2008-02-13T09:19:00.001-08:00

Visit my political blog on last night's political shenanigans here in Alexandria, Virginia (pictures included too!)

Masonic Week in Alexandria

2008-02-11T19:59:00.000-08:00

The first week in February saw Masons who are also members of various York Rite bodies congregate at the Hilton in Alexandria for national meetings, installation ceremonies, dinners, and other fun side degrees. It's generally called "Masonic Week" or "AMD Week" (AMD = Allied Masonic Degrees, of which I'm a member of actually.)

Anyway, the timing of me working here and Masonic Week were more than a coincidence, I believe, because there were several brethren whom I've known in the Masonic online community for years, and finally got to meet in person, as if the GAOTU bought us together in fellowship and Masonic enlightenment.

Also, I was fortunate enough to be invited to an historic dinner at Gadsby's Tavern in Old Town, Alexandria, with some of the brightest minds and authors in North American Masonry of my generation. The dinner conversation focused on how many of our own Masonic lodges have already reinvigorated themselves to be THE place for men to gather in harmony, enlightenment, and progressive knowledge, and how we can offer support for brethren seeking the same in their own jurisdiction.

But I digress... Back at the Hilton... some highlights...

My dear friend, known online as "Fylfot", and I were given tickets to a dinner for the Knight Masons Occidental (I have no idea what Masonic body that is). A couple brethren mentioned they had visited Alberta and the mountains in particular.

Then we went across the hall and participated in the "Elevator Degree" performed by the Pacific Northwest Players (see cheese hat photos in slideshow below). The "degree" was a satire on how some Masonic jurisdictions have experimented with what are known as "one day classes", fast tracking men through all three degrees of Masonry, often right through to membership in Shrine, all in one day. The performance was hilarious and I laughed throughout.

The brethren of the Pacific Northwest Players had hosted a wonderful hospitality suite for the week, and Fylfot and I had spent much time there getting to know the Masons we've only known online, as we had been doing that week ourselves. That was a great highlight and I hope to meet them again one day soon, hopefully in lodge.

I should mention that the first few photos in the slideshow below are me visiting Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22 at the George Washington Masonic Memorial. The gentleman in the royal blue collar with me is actually one of my favourite Masonic authors, Worshipful Brother W. Kirk MacNalty. Some of his books include:

Freemasonry: Symbols, Secrets & Significance

Freemasonry: A Journey Through Ritual and Symbol

The Way of the Craftsman

and an article published in "Heredom" 2005 called "Freemasonry for Bobos". That evening, he gave a presentation in lodge on the spiritual Masonic journey through the powerful symbolism presented in the degrees. He ended with a statement about what happens when we finally reach the "sanctum sanctorum" of our inner temple that I simply cannot publish.

Okay, photos...

Alexandria, Virginia!

2008-01-21T19:48:00.000-08:00

For this prairie boy Canadian, I've only seen the Washington Monument and Capitol in movies, pictures, and Legoland replicas. So when you land at the Reagan National Airport, which is just south of DC, those two structures glow and certainly standout on the other side of the Potomac River, and I couldn't believe I was actually here, soon looking forward to seeing them up close, and being in a place where so much history has taken place in the name of freedom and democracy.

Speaking of "freedom", today is Martin Luther King Day and offices were closed, yet I still had a 9am meeting. ..lol..

But I digress. On my drive through distinctive and historic Old Town, Alexandria, I then got lost, and I knew I went too far because back behind me was the George Washington Masonic Memorial standing out, lights glowing upon it in the night, like a beacon, saying, "Mike, come back this way."

So I turned around and followed the roads that led to it, back into Old Town, finally driving down King Street with this view, and five minutes later, I found my hotel.

Magnificent, isn't it? I'm visiting Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22 on Thursday.

Okay, food notes so far: fish is okay, pizza is tasty, and I hear the Greek is very good.

TV: Same crap.

Roads: Immaculate, but instead of driving you're better off taking the Metro into DC as parking is pretty much useless. The Metro goes everywhere here.

Alexandria Architecture: American Colonial, matchbox row housing, lots of brick, and distinctive. Parts reminded me of row housing in London.

I've already met one of my Masonic brethren who happened to call me at the exact time I was lost driving back to my hotel from the office, and he then directed me to his office only a couple miles away. After knowing him only online for over three years, it was good to finally meet him.

So now that I'm settled in here, I'll have continual updates on my tour of area, what's good, what's not so good, and my infiltration of a Canadian into the Barack Obama campaign.

But be prepared for a lot of Masonry comin' at ya, 'cause next month is George Washington's birthday and there's a tonne of stuff going on, with the lodge, parades, and events. Oh, I saw the Anglican church he went to. More to come!

Chicago, Vegas, Virginia

2008-01-16T09:45:00.000-08:00

On New Year's Day, I travelled to Chicago for 5 days, stayed at the Hotel Blake again and worked a few days. The next evening, I met up once again with the brethren from Oriental Lodge and we had a great evening over scotch and some food.

The next day, a friend of mine flew down and we spent an evening at The House of Blues and watched four tribute bands (Jimi Hendrix, REM, The Police, U2) which was very good. We also saw some live jazz, a dueling piano bar, and met some marines from Virginia, which was coincidental as I'm "stationed" there soon. Then the next day we went to the Field Museum of Natural History.

I really like Chicago by the way.

I then spent a few days at home before I headed to Vegas with 10 other friends for a stag week. We stayed at New York New York which is pretty cool, went to many clubs, bars, casinos, restaurants, etc. I gambled for the first time and won! (YAY!) A lot of other things happened that will definitely stay in Vegas (as the cliche goes). But a real highlight was seeing BLUE MAN GROUP at The Venetian. I gotta tell ya, YOU HAVE TO SEE THESE GUYS. An amazingly interactive show.

Most of all, for five days, I never laughed so much in my life. It was truly great spending time with ten good friends, making jokes (mostly about each other), recovering daily only to get back in the mode again.

More pictures are coming for all these trips soon.

"Why do you leave the West and head toward the East?" Here's why...

I'm now headed to Alexandria, Virginia for more work through to April. I will be back to Edmonton on a few occasions, but am really looking forward to visiting some Masonic lodges there and all the historical Masonic and American government architecture evident in the DC area. Especially the following:

George Washington Masonic National Memorial
Home of Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22

House of the Temple
Supreme Council 33 Degree
Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry
Southern Jurisdiction

I will be touring these magnificent buildings with my good friend Adam, a brother Mason from California the first week of February and meeting up with several other e-Masons I've known online for quite some time. I finally look forward to meeting them face-to-face.

I get the feeling that I'm supposed be there. Indeed.

My kind of town, Mine All Mine, New Laws, and Books

2008-01-01T23:36:00.000-08:00

While spending two and a half weeks in Chicago in December, I was asked to return for a few days in January. So here I am on New Years Day. One of my rules about flying is that's it's not a good idea to have a hangover. Trust me on that. So luckily, after partying with friends all night, I was excited to get on a plane and start 2008 in "my kind of town".

Mine All Mine...

After a couple try outs, I also just received news that I was accepted as the new bass player in an Edmonton area based rock band called Mine All Mine. After spending a few years as the bass/keyboard player in my old band, Dexter Thorax, and still reminiscing on what an entirely fun experience that was, I still had the bug to play, create, and perform progressive rock.

And I wanted to join an established band that was creative. So thankfully, there was a band looking for a bass player as posted on a musician classified ad site that described themselves as "progressive". Being a crazed lunatic fan of said style, continuously listening to bands such as Yes, Rush, Kansas, and any type of rock music that was outside the norm, this bass player was mighty happy when he first tried out for Mine All Mine. I could hear all sorts of influences from every band I've ever liked. "Mike, see if you can follow along with this one. This part is in 27/13 time" or something like that. I love a challenge. Keeps the mind fresh.

So check 'em ... er, I mean, "us" out. While you can't hear me playing on the songs, I will be. And I'm really looking forward to heading into the studio for their (our) second album and playing gigs. Stay tuned to the website http://www.mineallmine.ca or hop on The Official Mine All Mine Facebook Page. Also try the My Space site.

My Kind of Town...

Ok, back to Chicago. I'm meeting up with the fine brethren of Oriental Lodge #33 for some suds. Any Masons reading this, I'd highly recommend you visit this lodge. Excellent ritual and fellowship. Great guys all around.

New Laws...

Today being Jan. 1st, not only did the Goods and Services Tax in Canada drop another point to 5% as promised and actually delivered by the government, but Illinois bars will no longer allow smoking. Not smoking a cigar in a Chicago bar is rather untraditional don't you think? Being a nonsmoker with chronic sinusitis, I do welcome this.

Books on the go...

I month ago I finished a book titled "One in Fifteen Million", an autobiography about a Ukrainian professor in the late 1930's who was put in a Soviet prison with no trial. The descriptions of the absolute horrible conditions in the prison and how the prisoners were abused and tortured go beyond humane.

A book I'm almost done is "Solomon's Builders" by Christopher Hodapp, whom I've met in person when he visited Edmonton in October 2006. This book simply tells the truth of the anticipated myths coming out of Dan Brown's next book, "The Solomon Key" about Freemasons, the Founding Fathers, Washington DC, and Masonic/American history.

I'm also in the middle of "A Short History of Nearly Everything" by Bill Bryson. It's a fun yet seemingly thorough timeline of the history of the development of science. If you like science, read it!

And finally, I'm almost done "Right Side Up - The Fall of Paul Martin and the Rise of Stephen Harper's New Conservatism" by Paul Wells. This is a detailed account of the 2004 and 2006 Canadian federal elections and all the good stuff in between. If you love federal politics, read it!

Common theme throughout all this? Progression.

There's no place like home, home on the range...

2007-12-19T01:02:00.000-08:00

After spending the first 7 months of this year in Kansas and getting to know a lot of fantastic people there, originally it was all foreign to this humble Canadian, but now, I have to say in the immortal words of Dorothy, "There's no place like home."

Since December 4th, I've been in Chicago on a contract for the past couple weeks. But being in the American Midwest neighbourhood, I thought I'd take the Dec. 9th weekend, make a short flight to Kansas City and drive over to dear ol' Topeka to the best pub in the world.

I couldn't wait to get back to Frances O'Dooley's to visit with all the great friends I made during my stint and sing those oh so fun Irish tunes, especially my favourite, "Big Strong Man". My good friend and Masonic brother Mikey B. let me stay at his place. When I arrived, I was greeted by two big dogs, and he set up my bed and room with cute little night table and lamp, a couple Masonic books, an airplane bottle of Schnapps, and a prophylactic. Hilarious.

His roommate, Tom, a local cop, drove us to the pub where I was proud to display my Edmonton Oilers jersey--probably the first time that the Oil have been represented there.

My good buddy Rich "The Irish Rebel" Stevenson greeted me and all the other barmates were there. Throughout the night more and more friends arrived. I never realized how much I miss them so. It was a fantastic night. I told my friend Chasmo that I had to get this need to reconnect with these people in person out of my system.

So let me share something personal about this experience...

Looking back at that part of my life, it's like it was all a dream--that it didn't really happen. All the weekends I spent at a really fun Irish Pub, playing guitar, singing, and meeting people were all wonderful memories I'll never forget.

When I arrived at the Kansas City airport, everything was so familiar--the rental car place, the drive to Topeka, meeting up with friends and going to that Irish pub where most of my friends were all in their same stools.

I really couldn't believe I was actually there. It felt like a dream. It was truly a surreal experience. I've never had this feeling before. It was strange to me, but it felt great.

Believe it or not, but Kansas was a great experience for me spiritually. A lot of strange but meaningful coincidences happened to me. The latest coincidence was me being able attend Mt. Zion lodge for their installation. Being that I was sent on contract to Chicago and my company being able to fly me there for the only weekend I could have gone there, the timing could not have been better.

So I now wonder what was the cause, perhaps alchemical, of this odd feeling. Is it simply the massive amount of positive energy I received from these wonderfully friendly people? Is it the perfect pints of Guinness? Is it the wonderful harmony everyone experiences when we're all singing those familiar Irish songs together? Is it the witty remarks we belt out causing much laughter and frivolity? Is it the intelligent discussions on religion, politics, and philosophy we had around the table?

If someone has experienced something like this, please do share.

If you have an explanation for it, especially give some insight.

And finally, let me ask you this ... isn't this the feeling we should be having in our Masonic lodges and amongst our brethren?

And if our lodges are representative of our own spiritual temple due to the harmony and positive energy in it, what's so different about this humble little Irish pub and a good lodge?

What's been great is combining a positive Masonic experience with that Irish pub in Topeka. The brethren of Mt. Zion Lodge #266 and I have in the past gone to have dinner there after a few meetings now.

My congratulations go out to Worshipful Brother Chad Brewer on his installation as Master of Mt. Zion Lodge and a warm thank you to the brethren of that lodge who always make me feel at home in true Masonic spirit. The political discussion at dinner was great, proving that although we are prevented from talking about partisan politics and dogmatic religion inside the lodge room, with open minds we can most certainly talk about them outside the lodge, even at dinner or festive board.

Overall, I do look forward to my next visit to Kansas again. Here are the photos...

Next post... living and working in downtown Chicago and my Masonic visit to Oriental Lodge #33.

Ottawa Part Deux avec un peu Cleveland

2007-12-05T22:00:00.000-08:00

This is way overdue. Below is a slideshow of me and my dear friend Rose in Ottawa (by any other name?), getting ready for the Rush concert and taking an outdoor tour of the Parliament Buildings of Canada, some shots in the Market area of town, and a few from Cleveland, including the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame.

I already described the Ottawa Rush concert, but allow me to now tell you about them there govamint bildins. Well, they are absolutely amazing--breathtaking really. I'm sure the good folks who live and frequent Ottawa perhaps don't appreciate it them.

Nah, how can they not! But for this armchair political analyst who watches Question Period in the House of Commons online and seeing the beautiful gothic architecture, the statues, the spooky bell, and the grounds way up from the Rideau, is an inspiring experience. The war monument and unknown soldier inspired me the most though, thinking about how many Canadians fought, suffered, and died in all those wars, just so I could stand there, free, and proud of my country. Ottawa is a beautiful city in autumn and I look forward to visiting there again.

Later that night, Rose and I met up with my fraternity brother Wolfie, went out for dinner and some drinks at a pub in the Market area of Ottawa, which has tonnes of bars, pubs, and restaurants. I made contact with my old friend Jamie, who told me that night she's moving to Pakistan for a while. Writing this now in December while that country is under emergency rule, I wonder if she's okay.

After Ottawa, I spent six days in Cleveland, on a work contract, obviously. That said, I met up with my Deke brethren from the Beta Chi Chapter of Delta Kappa Epsilon at Case Western Reserve University who were gracious hosts. I got a tour of their house, which had a stairwell of various fraternity shirts that I got a chuckle out of. One of the guys and I went down the street from the house to this wee red decor bar. The bartender, humble in his ways, perhaps didn't realize how freaking familiar he looked. I ordered dirty vodka martini, and let me tell you, it was one of the best I've ever had (although I'd probably had about a dozen in my life up to that point). I then told the barkeep that he made a very good drink and that he looked EXACTLY like Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Same hair style and colour. Same eyes. Same bunny rabbit teeth configuring the same smile. I wish I took a picture. Anyway, a good night.

Wednesday night I drove from East Cleveland to downtown to go to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Now this was interesting. Authentic everything--clothes, posters, instruments, autographs, and more. The Doors, Pink Floyd, and The Clash had their featured exhibits in separate floors. Outside was Johnny Cash's tour bus mysteriously established in the drizzling rain, which I had to take a picture. The whole front of the museum is protected by dozens and dozens of large decorated guitars.

The next night, I met up with the Dekes again and we headed to a campus bar which had an odd dual electric-techno neo-prog band playing while undergrads droned on. The local beer was good, from what I remember.

But for the week, I'll never forget what is probably the nicest restaurant I've ever been in, and it's attached to the hotel I was staying at. The sea bass was exquisite! And again, the dirty martinis were delicious. So if there's one thing I learned about Cleveland was that 1) it rocks! and 2) good dirty martinis. Okay maybe that's two things. Plus, I've never seen so many huge big houses along a city street. Then again, I'm still travelling around.

So, without further Rideau...

Chicago!

2007-11-20T14:17:00.000-08:00

Yep, looks like I'll be goin' to Chicago for a good part of December working right in the downtown loop. I've only heard great things about that city and how much I'll enjoy it.

For my Kansas friends, I'm going to do my darndest to make a weekend trip to see you all at O'Dooley's. I might as well since I don't know anyone in Chicago. I sure do miss that little Irish pub and all of you in it. Stay tuned!

Washington, DC?

2007-10-29T12:49:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I've been pondering the pros and cons of accepting a non-mandatory 1 year contract in Washington, DC.

Ironically, the week before, I had purchased a book on Washington, DC called "Solomon's Builders", written by my Masonic brother from Indianapolis, WBro. Christopher Hodapp.

I've put out e-feelers to my American friends and discussed it with my friends here in Edmonton. I've researched the web on what it's like to really live there. It doesn't look good. Crime bad. Housing bad. People? Diverse, but not overly friendly or fun.

For three months, maybe. But a year? I'm going to have to pass.

Don't get me wrong, I'd love to visit, but live?

I also get the feeling that our partner company (which will remain nameless on this blog) asked many of their resources and they turned it down as well. Why would they ask a Canadian from so far away? Hmm.

Speaking of capital cities, I realize I haven't updated this blog to post my photos and videos of the Parliament buildings in Ottawa from a month ago and a couple shots of Cleveland. I'll get to that soon.

Boston might still be a possibility for a couple short term stints. We'll see how the contract pans out.

Bro. Denis Fontaine - Carpe Diem

2007-10-09T10:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I learned the sad news that a dear friend of mine and fraternity brother, Denis Fontaine, 40, had passed away while kayaking in extreme conditions near Anvil Island in Howe Sound, northwest of Vancouver, BC.

My last memory of Denis...

Last I saw him was by chance in August 2006, while visiting a friend in Deep Cove, North Vancouver, BC. I rode a bus up from Seattle, where I was visiting my sister on my way back from a two week training session in San Diego. Anyway, that evening, we decided to head to a local pub one evening, where after waiting in line for 15 minutes, it was packed wall to wall and beer difficult to get to. Soon, I hear my name being called. It was none other than Denis, who joined my fraternity, Delta Kappa Epsilon, back in 1987, which means I've known him for over 15 years now. He asked how our fraternity chapter was doing at the University of Alberta, as he was close with a lot of the brethren. We toasted to some shots of sambucca, reminisced and laughed. I can't think of a better last memory to have with someone such as Denis.

About Denis...

Denis was always excited about life, smiled all the time, and cared deeply what other people were up to. He literally lit up the room with his charm.

Denis was a professional extreme adventurer. Whether it be kayaking, mountain biking, or cross country running, although he was only 40, being as active as he was, he probably lived 5 more lifetimes than most people.

Although I had only seen him a few times in the past five years, I have many fond memories of him from the fraternity.

Back in the mid-90's, our fraternity alumni association put together a group of runners and helpers for the annual June Kananaskis 100 Relay though the Alberta Rocky Mountains. Out of the team of 10 runners, Denis took on the final 10km leg, which began at the dam and went through the mountain forest, ending up at the finish line at Nakiska ski resort. His legs were bloodied from a fall, but it didn't seem to phase the guy.

Farewell, my brother.

"Sing softly once again, of the loved ones gone before
Whom oft we used to meet, in the happy days of yore
E'en while now we're gathered here, in the twilight soft and sweet
Seem their spirit hov'ring near, o'er thine altar DKE."

From "We Hail Thee Holy Goddess".

The following article describes Denis to a T.

Kayakers die

Howe Sound outing turns tragic

Kelly Sinoski, Vancouver Sun

Published: Monday, October 08, 2007

Denis Fontaine rarely let a day go by when he wasn't outdoors training, hiking, kayaking or mountain biking. He lived for training in the outdoors, his friend Marc Campbell said.

"His life was 'hurry up and work' so he could get outside and play," Campbell said.

"He loved to live life. He'd climb, he'd run, he'd hike...he was always doing something."

Denis Fontaine (left) and Richard Juryn died in hospital after their kayaks overturned in Howe Sound on Sunday. They were out with a group attempting to circle Anvil Island when high winds caused rough waters. A third kayaker is still in critical condition.

And Sunday was no exception. Fontaine, who celebrated his 40th birthday last week, headed out with buddy Richard Juryn and six others for a morning paddle and hike on Anvil Island in Howe Sound.

The fit and experienced kayakers - who often went out together for outdoor adventures - left Porteau Cove in four double kayaks at about 7:30 a.m. for a hike up the peak on Anvil Island.

When they headed back toward shore about five hours later, they hit pounding rain, two-metre (seven-foot) high swells and winds gusting to as high as 85 kilometres an hour.

The kayak carrying Fontaine and his girlfriend overturned in the rough weather, pitching them into the water. As one of the kayaks paddled toward Porteau Cove to call the coast guard, Juryn picked up Fontaine while another kayak scooped up his girlfriend. Then disaster struck.

As Juryn headed toward shore, the overloaded kayak flipped, tossing the three men into the frigid water. They tried to swim to shore.

When the coast guard arrived, both Fontaine and Juryn were found face down in the water, said Marc Proulx, maritime coordinator for Victoria's Joint Rescue Coordination Centre.

They died later in hospital; the third man is in critical condition.

Proulx said the men had been in the water for at least an hour.

Fontaine's girlfriend, who was taken in the other kayak to Anvil Island, has mild hypothermia.

"I'm devastated," said Campbell, who has known Fontaine for about 12 years.

"He's pretty much the most likable guy. When he walked into a room, the party started."

Both Fontaine and Juryn, 50, lived in Deep Cove and were seasoned adventurers who were well known and respected in the outdoor adventure industry.

Juryn, who is married with two teenaged children, was a central figure in the push for more cross-country mountain bike trails and bringing them up to world-class level. A masters expert in cross-country mountain bike racing, Juryn, who ran his own company Shore Events from home, was involved in organizing Crankworx and Whistler Mountain Bike Festival.

Tina Faulkner, whose husband Bob was in another kayak and survived the ordeal, said Juryn was well known in North Vancouver and was a "very giving man."

"It's a nightmare," she said.

"A couple of hours after, the weather calmed down. They just got caught in very bad weather.

"It's just a huge, huge loss."

Campbell, who has known Juryn for about seven years, said he was a "super enthusiastic" person, an incredible father and devoted family man. Fontaine, he said, was a social guy who was strong, fit and had many friends. Everyone wanted to be around him.

He had been a sales rep at outdoor company Helly Hansen before taking a job with Merrill Apparel.

When he wasn't working, he trained for everything - kayaking, cycling, snowshoeing and climbing - but probably loved cross-country mountain biking most, Campbell said.

"He worked a bit and trained a lot - he would rush home and play," Campbell said.

"He is carpe diem, he lived every day. He will be missed for sure."

Rush in Ottawa

2007-10-03T15:08:00.000-07:00

A lot of you know that my favourite band are that true Canadian progressive rock trio called Rush. I've been a huge fan since high school and have only seen them live twice, both in Edmonton--once in 1990 for the Presto tour, and five years ago for the Vapor Trails tour. Both shows were quite memorable but the Vapor Trails show is my second favourite concert of all time, next to Pink Floyd in 1994. Nothing will top that one.

Some would think that a band that's released 18 studio albums, toured a billion cities, would be old and out of ideas. Few bands from the 70's remain intact, but Rush is one of those few thankfully. Their experience and creativity knows no bounds and their recent album, "Snakes & Arrows", is very, very good. Geddy, Alex, and Neil, quite literally are playing better than ever and their sound, is well ... sound!

So you can imagine how much I was looking forward to seeing them live again.

But alas ... when I was in Kansas, Rush played Calgary, Alberta (only 2.5 hours away from home). Then when I left Kansas, they played there a few weeks later, and so did Dream Theater. Just my luck eh?

All that was left were a few shows in Ottawa and Toronto.

But luckily I met someone in September who's from Ottawa and then invited me to see RUSH, in Ottawa, on the 21st and a couple free nights stay at the Brookstreet hotel in Kanata, just west of Ottawa. I couldn't believe this was happening. It was like a dream come true. And the best part is that the seats were 8th row on the floor!

Also knowing that I would be working in Cleveland the following week, it all worked out.

TRAVEL PANIC ATTACK! About 4 hours before we were about to see the show, I just realized that I lost my passport. After calling WestJet, airport lost and found, and government offices (which is pretty much useless), we made a trip back to the airport, went to the police office, and voila! there it was. Some kind soul had turned it in. WHEW.

So we had some drinks, took a cab to the ScotiaCentre, not far away, and weeded into the 10,000 fans of a sold out show, making it down to the floor. Unlike in Edmonton, you can drink beer on the floor. And so we did.

The show was amazing from the get-go. Opening up with the classic "Limelight" and continuing on, they played nine songs from their new album, which is unheard of for an old band like Rush, but they also played a lot of old B-side gems like Entre Nous, Natural Science, Witch Hunt, and Between the Wheels. It wasn't your usual Rush "greatest hits" show, although they did play a few standards. This was a different show--a spiritually oriented theme threaded through all of the songs, like they were trying to tell us something. Very Zen I'd say.

Here's a sample video, but from a different show. Same idea though.

Here's a crappy video from the actual show... if you can see 8 rows in on the floor on the left, about 5 seats in, that's me (!).

Cameos on the big screen from Bob & Doug Mackenzie, who introduced "The Larger Bowl" from their classic "Great White North" was hilarious. Then later the Southpark kids had a little band trying to play "Tom Sawyer" but Cartmen was hogging the mic. Then the real song kicked in.

See for yourself...

The funniest thing was seeing what Geddy would have behind him where his old bass amps used to go. Alex still has three big amps, but Geddy now goes directly into the system. Last tour, he had three coin operated dryers with concert shirts tumbling inside and every once in a while, a roadie would quietly hop on stage and insert some coins to get 'em going again. This tour, Geddy had three chicken rotissiere ovens and "Henhouse" written in "amp font" on the glass windows with four rows of actual chickens turning in each under a red lamp. Unbelievable!

What I enjoyed was watching my friend, who is so new to Rush it makes me ... (you don't wanna know), actually really enjoy the music, especially Neil Peart (pronounced "Peert"), the drum professor himself. When his solo came up, and the entire kit spun around, she nearly freaked. "I love him", she said, later the next day buying his bestselling book, "Ghost Rider - Travels on the Healing Road".

Here's the drum solo he did in Calgary back in July... You gotta watch this!!!

After the show we ended up at a local Irish pub where another live band was playing. Back at the hotel, I had to go to the bar and play "Xanadu" by Rush on the grand piano. Staff asked me to not do that. I cried, "But I just saw Rush!" You'd think I'd get some leeway because of that, but much to my chagrin, this was not the case.

Next day ... Parliament!

Never Tear Us Apart

2007-08-30T11:48:00.000-07:00

Hey, it's me and Kirk Pengilly, the sax/guitar player from INXS! Saw him at The Bank Lounge. Most of the kids in the bar had no idea who he was. But I did. I said, "Hey, I know who you are. You're that dude, Kirk, from INXS." We partied for a bit.

Now all that's in my head is that killer sax solo in "Never Tear Us Apart" (video).

"You were there, two worlds colliding..."

Uilleann pipes

2007-08-20T22:43:00.001-07:00

Here's a video of my friend Rich "The Irish Rebel" Stevenson playing the Uilleann pipes in July at Frances O'Dooley's Irish Pub. This is good stuff folks.

Jasper campin', raftin', and hikin'

2007-08-14T10:21:00.000-07:00

Well, a couple days after I got back from Kansas, I had to get in a true Canadian mountain camping trip.

During the August long weekend, a crew of some close friends and I set on a three day camping extravaganza in what has been deemed by many as the most beautiful place on earth, Jasper, Alberta, Canada. Some even say that when "God created the heavens and the earth" he started in Jasper.

While we almost got kicked out of the campground due to a little fun and sing-song, we eventually "subdued our passions" around the campfire. I wonder if it might have been me singing "Liquor and Whores" once I got settled in my lawn chair (see a video from a few posts ago).

The next day, 11 of us went whitewater rafting on the Sunwapta river, a level 3 grade, so yes, we had to wear helmets and wetsuits. Our guide, Mark, was awesome, and he told us that the best time to go is in June when the water is highest.

So did we get wet? You betcha! Nothin' better to wake you up from a night of drinkin' than some cold mountain glacial water!

Next day we all took various hikes at Mt. Edith Cavell, my most favourite place in the world. Why? Well, because each year it's a bit different. The lake is a different size, the glacial till has eroded, etc. While I usually just walk the main trail, this time, Bradeo took us on a jaunt way up the left moraine and then upward and onward to the mountain meadows. Me being obviously out of shape (I blame Guinness) was trailing the group, but managed to make it. Once we got there, we took some pictures, and the beers and bocce balls came out and we had a game of bocce way up there, probably the first one we reckon. But then it started to rain, so we made our way back down again.

Without further adieu, here are some pictures...

Truly an awesome weekend! I don't have the whitewater rafting photos, although I did buy a CD, the files were unreadable. :-(

You can always pull me through

2007-07-31T00:19:00.000-07:00

Listen to this song now! (Seriously click on that link to listen to the whole thing while you read this) --> "Pull Me Through" by Jim Cuddy of the veteran Canadian band Blue Rodeo

Simply put, it's one of my favourites and I'd like to dedicate it to all the people in my life--for their continued support, my dear parents, my sister, my grandma, my aunties and uncles, cousins, my friends and bros in Edmonton and British Columbia, and to all the awesome people I've met and worked with in Kansas who've made the last 7 months in Topeka feel like home, and an amazing experience I'll never forget.

Here's how some grade 8 students in Saskatchewan interpreted this beautiful, perfect song:

Dear Jim Cuddy,

Mr. Cuddy my name is Shelby and I'm in grade eight. I think you're a talented songwriter and your words speak for the misplaced voice in all of us. Your lyrics (*see below) relate to everybody's life in some way also your new album is astonishing...

Now run out and buy Jim's amazing album.

There's nothing like driving through the Northeast Kansas country-side, sun shining, with the top down on a white Mustang convertible listening to this CD in its entirety.

*
I hope you're traveling well now
And there's stars over your head
And I hope the river carries you
Everywhere you said

God Bless Kansas. Home on the range. And on August 1st, we're not in Kansas anymore.

Best Trip Ever - BC Road Trip 2007 Part II

2007-07-26T00:14:00.000-07:00

To Nanaimo, Vancouver Island
Okay, so I left off where I was heading toward the ferry terminal in Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. If you don't know, when you go by yourself in a car it's about $53 one way. But this was my holiday and I wasn't going to worry about it (although a certain guy named Artie was supposed to come... ahem.) The last time I was on a ferry was back in 1988 when my high school basketball team made a trip to Victoria, but that was from a different terminal. So this was a totally new experience for me and let me tell you, my dear friends and family, it is absolutely spectacular! Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo is one awesome ride.

To Bowser
No, this is not a Sha-Na-Na Revue. Bowser is a little unincorporated hamlet about an hour North from Nanaimo just off the highway next to the East coast of Vancouver Island. And this is where my dear friends Dave and Tara and their 1 yr old son live now. You see, Dave was the drummer in my band and he is simply the best. He was the master of playing any style of rock music, on time, and with true passion. For a bassist like me, there's nothing better than playing with not only a great drummer, but a great guy, and a good friend. Tara is a loving, feisty woman who is an amazing host. We used to party a lot at their house in Edmonton. Now, she's a loving mother again and their son... well let's just say, I look forward to seeing him again. I miss them dearly. We all do. But I can't blame them for moving. It is quite the transition, but a much, much better location. I couldn't be happier for their little family on such a big lot.

Upon arrival, I got out of my car and Dave was right there with our old band beer, Lucky Lager. What a welcome! We had Tara's fantastic butter chicken for dinner (mmmm) and then Dave and I headed to the beach with a six pack and shot the shit into the twilight. Aaahhhh.

Dave was explaining that the islands out there are basically a utopia. No other way to describe it.

To Courtenay/Comox (aka Pamela Anderson's hometown)
Or so I hear. This little town is really growing. In fact, the whole island is. Booming. But ssshhh, no one is supposed to know. It's well developed, has all the typical box chain stores, but has mom-and-pop stores and a small town community feel. It is nestled amongst such beauty with coastal mountains and the inlets. The best part is that WestJet airlines flies from Edmonton to Comox Airforce Base which is next to Courtenay.

Anyway, we drove there for some excellent eggs Benny and took a tour of the area. I gotta tell ya, it's pretty awesome. We also drove up a mountain and found an abandoned ski hill with a couple lifts. It was really surreal.

But sadly and way too quickly, I had to go back to catch the 3pm ferry from Nanaimo back to Horseshoe Bay. One thing I know, I will definitely be back and will likely fly directly there. It's a definite place to consider moving to. Dave and I joked about being in a band together again and playing at local pubs in the area or being a house band at a local bar. Seriously, with a drummer this good, how can I not seriously consider it!

Okay, so that's the second leg of my trip. I have a big video of that, but it's coupled with my drive back to Vancouver, Kelowna wine country, and Vernon/Armstrong, with the final drive home to Edmonton.

Stay tuned!

More fun at O'Dooley's Irish Pub

2007-07-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

This video is of me singing the quintessential Canadian "Trailer Park Boys" song, "Liquor and Whores" by Bubbles.

Here's the original version by Bubbles himself...

"The Best Trip Ever" - British Columbia Road Trip 2007 Part One

2007-07-19T16:59:00.000-07:00

During the first week of July, I took some time off, flew home to Edmonton from Kansas, then drove on my own to Vancouver in 12 hours exactly. For my fellow Western Canadians, we all know that the Alberta and BC Rocky Mountains are just awe-inspiring, so this post is mainly for my dear American friends to show you how beautiful Canada is, in case you didn't know. The total trip for me was 3000km (1800 miles) and spent $300 on gas. (It would have been about $200 in the U.S. for those keeping track.)

The drive was a perfect day the whole way with a little rain in Mt. Robson Park (see pic). As some of you know, I have a music ritual which I play. Thankfully, when I mentioned to a friend of mine in Topeka that I was missing Simon and Garkfunkel, unbeknowest to me, went and bought it for me just before I left. How thoughtful.

Okay, so when you're driving from Edmonton to Jasper, when you pass under the iron bridge near Sanguido to pop in a CD -- "Five Days In July" from Blue Rodeo. You see, not only did my trip include five days in July (you see, you see!) but when you're driving by Chip Lake and the highway splits, you should pass a road sign on the right that says "Cynthia 34" right when the chorus for, he song yep you guessed it, "Cynthia" comes on. After that I usually put on more Blue Rodeo, "The Days In Between" album released in 2000. The song "This Road" is perfect for highway driving. "This road, this road. Well it goes on like a dream..." Awesome.

And when travelling through Jasper National Park, I usually put on U2's Joshua Tree, so when the valley opens up, "In God's Country" comes on, 'cause well, basically you are in God's country. But for me this time, the park gate was backed up a half-hour, so it was a bit of a wait.

After that, I'll put on Simon and Garfunkel's Greatest Hits because "Like A Bridge Over Troubled Water" comes on while going over a bridge or driving next to rocky rivers when leaving Jasper.

One of the most fun and scenic drives in the world is from Jasper to Kamloops, BC. Big mountains, lakes, valleys, farms, orchards ... however, when you reach Barriere, you'll note the devastating effect of the pine beetle has had on the forests. This continues on through Kamloops and in parts of the Okanagan Valley. It was a bit devastating for me as I hadn't been through here in over 10 years.

Okay, for all you drivers out there, if you're looking for fuel in Kamloops, don't go into town. You'll get lost. There's a PetroCanada gas station just outside Kamloops. It's the only one right on your drive through. Then you hit the Coquihalla Highway (#5 not #5a folks). It's a $10 toll road for a car, with really steep hills, but it's two lane divided the whole way into Vancouver. Basically, I could go straight to Whistler without hitting and intersection.

I first spent Canada Day n Horseshoe Bay golfing and going for beers at the marina with my two former Edmontonians and bestest buds Brian and Mat. Horseshoe Bay is where the ferry terminal is which is part of West Vancouver and the beginning of the Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler, where the 2010 Winter Olympics are being held. Needless to say, the scenery with the marina, the mountains and the water is so very Zen. I'd love to live there.

Later we hopped on a big boat, toured the Vancouver bay area on a perfect night and watched and celebrated the Canada Day fireworks. I had to take a few photos of Brandy's friend Andrea with the sunset. Then we ended up taking a limo from the boat to The Yale bar where a band called "Brickhouse" was playing. If you're in Vancouver, you gotta go there because they're the house band, start at midnight and play until about 2:30am. You can get drinks up until 3:00am too!

The next day, after going back to The Yale to pick up my credit card (oops), I got on the ferry in Horseshoe Bay and floated to Nanaimo and drove to Bowser to visit my buddy and former drummer Dave and his wife Tara, which they moved to from Edmonton last year.

So if your a friend of mine on Facebook, you can see the photos there. And instead of loading a tonne of photos, instead here's a multimedia slideshow of the first part of my trip!

Click here to see the cool slideshow!
(Song is "The Days In Between" by Blue Rodeo)

M.W.Bro. Robert A. Drury, Grand Master of Alberta passes

2007-07-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

On July 11, I received word that the Grand Master of Alberta, Most Worshipful Brother Robert A. Drury, had passed away suddenly while visiting family in Toronto that morning.

I am greatly saddened by this as I know all brethren in Alberta are. My condolences ring out to his wife, Lorraine, and his family.

I met Bob on several occassions as his lodge, Exemplar #175, meets on the same night as my lodge, across the hallway at Freemasons' Hall. I now deeply regret not having attended the Grand Lodge session in Edmonton back in June when I was home visiting.

Why? Brother Bob was one of those rare, larger-than-life men, who when entering a room, always with a smile, humble in his stature, would light it up so brightly, you knew you'd be in for a special moment. His jokes were legendary. Often when you'd ask him how he was doing, he come back with a witty comment about his own shortcomings. He WAS the name of his lodge, Exemplar, in the truest sense.

His Installation as Grand Master took place just over a month ago on June 9 and having Bob in the big chair, all the brethren were looking forward to what was to be an exciting year of Masonry in Alberta. Now we all share heavy hearts.

The following bit of Masonic ritual from "The General Charge", in my opinion, describes Brother Bob so well, to give you an idea of what he was, and what we all thought of him:

If you see a man who quietly and modestly moves in the sphere of his life; who, without blemish, fulfils his duty as a man a subject, a husband and a father; who is pious without hypocrisy, benevolent without ostentation, and aids his fellowman without self-interest; whose heart beats warm for friendship. whose serene mind is open for licensed pleasures, who in vicissitudes does not despair, nor in fortune will be presumptuous, and who will be resolute in the hour of danger;
The man who is free from superstition and free from infidelity; who in nature sees the finger of the Eternal Master; who feels and adores the higher destination of man; to whom faith, hope and charity are not mere words without any meaning; to whom property, nay, even life, is not too dear for the protection of innocence and virtue, and for the defence of truth;

The man who towards himself is a severe judge, but who is tolerant with the
debilities of his neighbour; who endeavors to oppose errors without arrogance, and to promote intelligence without impatience; who properly understands how to estimate and employ his means; who honours virtue, though it be in the most humble garment, and who does not favour vice though it be clad in purple; and who administers justice to merit whether dwelling in palaces or cottages;
The man who, without courting applause, is loved by all noble-minded men,
respected by his superiors and revered by his subordinates; the man who never
proclaims what he has done, can do, or will do, but where need is will lay hold with dispassionate courage, circumspect resolution, indefatigable exertion and a rare power of mind, and who will not cease until he has accomplished his work, and who then, without pretension, will retire into the multitude because he did the good act, not for himself, but for the cause of good!

If you, my brethren meet such a man, you will see the personification of brotherly love, relief and truth; and you will have found the ideal of a freemason.

So mote it be! Farewell, my brother. May the Great Architect of the Universe keep you and bless you always.

For more information on Brother Bob, visit www.freemasons.ab.ca (photo above taken therefrom).

(I'll soon be back blogging about my recent week-long road trip through British Columbia, which I have deemed the "Greatest Road Trip Ever", with lots of scenery pictures and stories.)

For now, along with my brethren, I mourn.

Canadians get screwed by supposed level exchange rate

2007-06-20T11:21:00.000-07:00

Although the Canadian dollar exchange rate has increased by about 25% compared to the American dollar, Canadians at home aren't seeing the benefit and are being ripped off by middlemen.

I can certainly attest that goods and food are much cheaper here in the U.S. compared to when I go home each month. Especially gasoline. Fuel in Edmonton is about $4/gallon (~$1.05/litre), where in Kansas it's hovering around $2.85 right now (~$0.77/litre).

At Denny's restaurant, the popular "Moon's Over My Hammy" and other breakfast slams are about $6.50 here in Topeka. In Edmonton, $8.99.

The list goes on.

Read more about it here.

June trip home

2007-06-18T10:05:00.000-07:00

Oh home on the range ye olde Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. E-Town, River City, City of Champions, Capital Region, Deadmonton, Redmonton, Festival City, Oil Town, "The Chuck", whatever you want to call it, it's my home and always will be.

My latest trip home wasn't much different than the one before. Good flight home. Did some wedding gift shopping though, but Karaoke at B-Street on Wednesday night with The Crew was good. Thursday I headed to the office for a bit, then went to Lux to meet with friends.

This time though, Thursday night I was able to attend a lodge meeting at dear old Ivanhoe Lodge. It was a real pleasure seeing everyone again. My good friend and lodge brother, Bro. Gordon Wright, a WWII D-Day navy veteran, received his 50 year Masonic jewel. He's such a humble gentleman, and told us some stories about the war and what an experience it was for a young man to be able to use all this equipment. Click the link on his name to read more about this amazing man.

We also had a Masonic memorial service for WBro. Bob Dean, a former Edmonton Eskimo pro football player who passed away last month. Bob was born in the U.S. and came up to Edmonton to play after he was offered a bigger salary than what the Washington Redskins put on the table. Bob was one of my sponsors into Freemasonry and for that, I will always be grateful, and he will be dearly missed in the Edmonton community.

After lodge, several of us retired to Martini's pub until the witching hour.

Friday evening the boys at the fraternity house hosted a BBQ which several of us alumni went to. Then later a huge crew of friends and I were at Suede lounge. It was really great to see so many people in one place again. Then we headed across the street to On The Rocks which is proving to be a popular live music joint in town.

Saturday, I had my cousin's wedding at Snow Valley. (Now for you non-Canadians, there is actually no snow there right now, in case you were wondering.) The new ski lodge there is now an amazing banquet facility to have events such as a wedding, and the Alberta prime rib was fantastic. My job was to take video of the entire event and I had a lot of fun doing it. It was wonderful to see my cousins, aunts, and uncles, but especially to see my cousin, Christine, get married to a really fun guy, and I've never seen her so darn happy.

Sunday I just relaxed and Monday, dad drove me to the airport with golf clubs in tow.

Next month, Artie and I are doing a big road trip through beautiful British Columbia including watching the Canada Day fireworks from a yacht in Vancouver bay, taking the ferry Vancouver Island, hit some wineries in Kelowna, and visiting my cousin in Kamloops.

Traditional Observance

2007-05-27T21:24:00.000-07:00

On Saturday May 19th, the brethren of a "new" Masonic lodge in Topeka were called to their second meeting, which I was privileged to attend once again. They've become good friends during my time here and am proud to call each of them my brother. I say "new" lodge because they are in the process of simply trying to continue the charter of dormant Auburn Lodge #34, but are now looking at taking over the charter for Mt. Zion Lodge. These things in Masonry are a convoluted process, and take time to get done.

This small group of dedicated Masons are basing their lodge on the Traditional Observance (T.O.) model as part of the Masonic Restoration Foundation. This model ensures that lodge meetings have substance, no minutes are read, educational presentations are made and discussed by the brethren, ritual is performed with dignity and grace, tuxedos or dark suits are worn, and post-meeting fellowship is encouraged with a dinner in a private room at a fine restaurant. There is much flexibility to this and it's up to the brethren what traditions they wish to maintain.

This lodge is the only one that meets at the Grand Lodge of Kansas building in downtown Topeka. We had an excellent presentation made by a brother on the five orders of architecture--the Ionic, Doric, Corinthian, Tuscan, and Composite and how they might correspond to the five ancient mystery schools--the Greek, Roman, Egyptian, Hebrew, and Christian. This discussion continued at festive board, which we had in a private room at Frances O'Dooley's Irish Pub (where else!).

Here are some pictures of the Grand Lodge of Kansas building, inside the lodge room, me with some of the brethren, and dinner and fun at O'Dooley's.

Update: The mosaic pavement "checkered floor" is a rarity to find in American lodges, but commonplace at all four lodge halls back in Edmonton, so this ornamentation made me feel like I was back in my own lodge room. In the picture below right, the gentleman on the front right, Brother Chad, is the artisan who designed and put the floor together.

Oh, and I met Drew Carey ...

Peaceful Places in Topeka

2007-05-23T22:26:00.000-07:00

So I've been back in Topeka for two weeks now and each weekend is still filled with great times at the Irish pub and Rich still being so gracious and letting me play guitar and sing between his sets.

But what I want to share with you is a beautiful area along side of Shawnee Lake which has all sorts of flowers, plants, with rocks and little creeks. The mallard ducks are very tame due to everyone feeding them all the time. I've hung out here a couple times now, and will definitely return, as it's just so peaceful. Without further adieu...

That duck kicked ass. I wouldn't say he's "Mighty" though. Go Senators!

Kansas Coincidences

2007-05-21T12:16:00.000-07:00

I've mentioned this to a few people, but since I've been here in Kansas, I've experienced some interesting coincidences, which I will share with you now.

The second week I was here, I went to my apartment complex's office, as I was told you can sign out DVD movies for free. They have a whiteboard showing the latest arrivals and this week, the movie "Capote" starring Phillip Seymour Hoffman was featured. I had always wanted to see that movie, but to be honest, I really didn't know what Truman Capote did. So I thought now was a good time to do so.

Unbeknowest to me, "Capote" is the true story of how Truman Capote the author, began the 'true-crime' book craze with his release of "In Cold Blood", which is about a brutal senseless murder at a farm homestead in rural Kansas, which happened about a two hour drive southwest from Topeka! The murderers were then caught and brought to Leavenworth Prison, which is only about 45 minutes from Topeka. I could help but feel I was MEANT to watch this movie at this particular time.

Another coincidence happened when I drove down to the Wichita Mid-Continent Airport to fly out to Las Vegas. Upon my return, the next week, I happened to be watching "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" starring John Candy and Steve Martin where their plane to Chicago gets diverted all the way to the same airport and their adventure takes them through Kansas and the rest of the Midwest.

Not really a coincidence, but notable was watching "National Lampoon's Vacation" with Chevy Chase a few weeks ago, that takes the family through Kansas and Dodge City, famous for the Wyatt Earp history. The scene that showed Christie Brinkley driving her red Ferrari on the highway made me think why I haven't yet seen anything like this yet.

And would you consider it a coincidence that a Masonic brother from here was from San Diego, where I was just at a couple times last year, and his girlfriend resembles two of my ex-girlfriends and has the same name as another ex of mine (yes, I have a few ex's, but that's not the point here..lol.)

Speaking of Masons, I'll mention again about the evening at the Scottish Rite Temple in Guthrie when asking Jim Tresner about what his favourite degree of the Scottish Rite is and which working tool he likes the most, he happened to pick what I would say: "The 18th degree and the level."

And I almost forgot to mention how Rich Stevenson "The Irish Rebel" told me over a late night breakfast at IHOP that he is a huge fan of Rush. As well, although he plays guitar at the pub, he actually happens to be a drummer. Being that I'm a bass player and also a huge Rush fan, I think I'll chalk that up as a coincidence. Especially when one night he was taking requests and I blurted out "Rush!" as a lark, he actually started playing "Sweet Memories" from the album "2112" (1976).

These are sweet memories indeed and why I have to blog them.

April Showers Bring May Flowers

2007-05-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder where on our continent the ol' adage "April Showers Bring May Flowers" actually holds true? It's not Kansas because you have to back up a month where the March showers bring April flowers. So you'd think you would just have to go North to see it come to fruition.

My trip back to Edmonton for May was primarily to take my mother and grandmother out for Mother's Day lunch, which I do every single year. In search of the right dining establishment, I remembered that "Continental Treat" on Whyte Avenue and 106 Street could be good. Elegant and popular, being that it's been around for over 25 years, I remember going there about 12 years ago. And it was excellent. Dill pickle soup was excellent. Open smoked salmon sandwich was perfect. Our waiter happened to be a Brother Mason from Highlands-Unity Lodge as well as he recognized my square and compass necklass jewel. Anyway, my dear grandma loved this restaurant and we've decided it would be our annual go-to Mom's Day place.

Flight
The flight four days before that was smooth as silk. Opting to fly out of KC at 6:30 AM through Denver on United Airlines was much, much better than on Northwest through Minneapolis. My good friend Ruben was there to pick me up at the airport and we then had lunch at Earl's Tin Palace. Later that night we would join our usual group at B-Street Bar for the world's best karaoke. Afterward, Mikey, Artie, and I would head to Mike's house for some darts and drinks whilst listening to the new Rush album.

Thursday May 10
I stopped by the office for a bit then met up with Moondog, Shlab, Dan, Artie, and Allison for some drinks at Lux. Moondog always makes me laugh too, being the one who originally coined my current residence "Topechka, Kansi". He's funniest bloke I've ever known.

Friday gong show
Friday evening we met up at Earl's Tin (I know, I know). We being Artie, Allison, Taryn, Perry and K.Lo downed some food and we would all ended up at Devlin's Martini Bar and Savoy on Whyte where more friends would join us. Then it was off to On The Rocks back downtown again, one of few remaining live music venues in town where a cover band called "Liar" were playing a tonne of AC/DC, Judas Priest, Nazareth, and other kick ass rock tunes. We had an absolute blast. Next thing you know, we're all at Allison's place, me cranking out my guitar and some Blue Rodeo. I don't remember anything after that.

Saturday
Saturday afternoon I hung out at my boss's place for some sun and beers. Later, my dad took my aunt and I out for dinner at Normand's on Jasper Ave. Excellent food. Highly recommend it. Then I met up with some friends and went to "On the Rocks" again but this time McQuaig was playing. If you wanna see blues and bagpipes, McQuaig is the band to see.

Sunday
Getting my share of local restaurants, Sunday night I had dinner with a dear friend at 4th and Vine, where it's movie night. "Volver" starring Penelope Cruz was on and it was a very enjoyable movie. And believe it or not, but I drank some Merlot. A nice Chilean called "La Playa".

Flight back to KC on Monday
We were delayed on the tarmat in Denver due to some crazy storms. For the first time, I had a listen to the air control traffic on the headsets. I was amazed at how all these planes were coordinated to fly around the storms. Finally arriving at KCI airport, I was blessed to have been given a Jeep Compass for my car rental and I soon discovered it was a very smooth ride indeed.

This last trip back to Edmonton, though, made me realize how much I do miss my friends and family. I will return from June 6 to 11 as my cousin has a wedding on the 9th I've been asked to video tape and I plan on finally going to one of my own lodge's meetings as I do miss old Ivanhoe Lodge and the brethren.

As I just found out that I will be in Topeka until July 31st, I can't help but realize that there's still a lot to do around here and in KC that I haven't even done, so the extension is a good opportuinty to take advantage of it. So hopefully, I'll have some more adventures to tell, including a planned trip to Indiana.

While there weren't any May flowers in bloom yet in Edmonton, having spent time with my aunt and mother, who both have a middle name "Rose", and grandma, whose first name is "Rose", those were all the flowers a man returning home could ask for.

Awww!

The Frances O'Dooley's Drinking Team

2007-05-07T19:47:00.000-07:00

So basically, since I've been back in Topechka over the past several weeks, enjoying the scenery by taking drives around the area. Kansas is a strikingly beautiful state with rolling hills, ornery trees, long white picket fence ranches, acreages galore, and excellent roads. I finally bought a Kansas band compliation CD. Being the progressive rock fan that I am, I can't believe I never owed any Kansas. Well, I'm truly impressed. So there's nothing like driven through the Kansas country-side listening to, well, Kansas!

There's a definite soul to this humble state. With the recent tornado wiping out Greensburg, a town of 1500 people, killing 12, you get a real sense of community spirit here. Kansans are very proud and the friendliest people I have ever met.

So I've been frequenting my usual hangout. Rich has been kind to let me play and I've been surprisingly well received, being that I don't have any lyrics in front of me and often find myself repeating verses. But the good-hearted Kansans don't seem to mind.

I've befriended, Adam and Laine, some of the fine folks from KSNT 27 News, the local NBC affiliate. Then there's the other members of the O'Dooley's Drinking Team and have shared a few with the other regulars--Bob, Sean, Mikey n Jenn, Todd, Rugby Mike, the other Jenny, supreme Guinness pint pouring bartenders Nate, Darren, and Amil, and our tolerant nurse, Christina. There's also the gals from the back who've got their own "Irish Friday Club", but they don't sit at the front with us. Boooo!

So, from these photos, you can see Adam, Rich, and myself jamming at the front, playing some "Don't You Know That You Are A Shooting Star".

The other day was "May the Fourth Be With You" day, and many Star Wars references were had. Rich played us some Star Wars parody songs, which brought the house down with much laughter.

I did manage to take a stroll at the nearby Shawnee Lake, Southeast of Topeka, which is dammed up. It's a nice big lake with boating, canoe rentals, parks galore, mini fishing lakes, and a golf course on one end. It reminded me a lot of back home, so it was good to just hang there.

My good friend Mike, also a brother Mason (the well dressed one seen singing on the right), came over the other day as I've turned him onto Canada's own top TV show, Trailer Park Boys. We sat and watched a couple seasons over a case of beer.

Home Again for Easter

2007-04-12T20:49:00.000-07:00

The Best Week EVER!

Well, after a few weeks in Kansas, it was time to head back to Edmonton for everything Easter.

Flight home
Was it a smooth trip home? Hell no. My flight from KC was a touch late, surprise, surprise, so when we arrived in Minneapolis, it was literally about 5 minutes before my connecting flight to Edmonton was to depart. Then as the plane approached the gate, it stopped about 20 feet before and the captain announced that there was some equipment in the way! GREAT! REALLY GREAT!

Finally, we parked the damn thing and I hurried on out and ran all the way across this massive, massive airport, carrying my laptop and pulling my carry on luggage, sprinting down moveable sidewalks, dodging around people, taking the odd short break (yeah, yeah, I know...) and then hearing my name on the intercom to report to gate C14, which wasn't even close yet. I finally arrive in a pant and a sweat and while the plane was still at the gate, the freakin door was locked. So I wave out to the pilots. lol... I know, pretty useless. So I go to the adjoinng gate, interrupt the current inquiry, and ask the lady to get a hold of the plane. She does so, and says someone will be right out. WHEW!!!

So I get on the plane, go to my seat, and they give me some water. Nice.... Tired as heck and wanting to sleep, two chatter box comedians behind me are yappin' away to no end. I glance at the three empty seats across the aisle and head over to bliss. Nappy nap.

Upon arrival, I knew there was no way my other bag would have arrived on time, so luckily I didn't put any needed clothes in there, but I did have some ink cartridges for one of my bosses, but the next morning, the bag arrived at my door. Sweet.

As I couldn't get a hold of anyone to pick me up, a $50 cab ride ensued. Hopefully I can expense it.

I get my key from my aunt's place and cabbie takes me home. Ah... home. Nappy nap.

Later that night, the B-Street Gang went out for karaoke and Brad the DJ was there. Really good to see him and the crew again.

A Maundy Thursday
Thursday afternoon, I headed to work to drop off the ink cartridges to my boss and we chatted and then headed down to Lux for a while and had a really good meeting. Several of my friends who work downtown stopped in and we had more drinky drinks.

But then I had to head off home to get in my tux and go to my Masonic Hall where I was participating in the 18th degree - Knight of Rose Croix as the 2nd General. It's a pretty big night in Scottish Rite Masonry, so it was great to see all the brethren again too. The degree took about 2.5 hours and I thought my general's charge was pretty inspiring. Anyway, after our Extinguishing of the Lights - Feast of the Paschal Lamb, I popped in the hall lounge where I knew brethren of my lodge, ol' Ivanhoe #142 were hanging out. Many of us then headed over to Martini's Pub for some wine and fellowship. I told everyone about my awesome trip to the Scottish Rite Temple in Guthrie.

I must say that that Thursday was one of the best days I've ever had. I will never forget it. I also decided that Kara and I would go skiing to Jasper after she insisted. Her telling me "You say Jasper is your spiritual temple, so let's go!"

A Very Good Friday

So Good Friday we hopped in her van and headed to Jasper -- specifically the Jasper Park Lodge and Marmot Basin ski resort. With Blue Rodeo and U2 playin' on the way, I was once again, for the umpteenth time, awe-inspired by the massiveness of the mountain scenery. That night we went to the Atha-B and watched a really good blues band.

Saturday, here in the park...

The next day was very warm, about 16C on the hill! The snow was a bit sticky, but my favourite runs, Highway 16 and Showoff were still a lot of fun. Just before lunch, I mentioned to Kara in a lift line that I usually one of my friends here. Sure enough, one of my fraternity brothers was also in line and later we joined him and his gang for some beers, food, and tunes down at the upper parking. Classic. That's what I really love about Marmot is the party atmosphere in that parking lot.

So we skied one day and then Kara drove us home, again listening to Blue Rodeo, Dave Matthews, knowing that I would return to my most favourite place in the whole world.

Saturday night was hanging at Suede Lounge and it was awesome to see the ladies of The Crew -- you know who you are! Then we went to some Level 42 club, which wasn't bad, but you cats know me, ... not really into the dance trance, hip hop stuff, so I called it a night as I had to get up early in the morning.

Sunday, Bloody Sunday

I was up at 7am for the Scottish Rite Relighting of the Lights Ceremony and Easter breakfast.

After that, I headed home for more nappy nap. Then I visited my mom and grandma, and after picked up my aunt in the afternoon and we went to my uncle's for Easter dinner as my cousin and her family were in town from Kamloops.

Monday Monday, so good to me

I had lunch with another dear friend who I haven't seen in a while. Then I a visit with my mom again. My 2nd cousin and her family were there. Her husband and I get along really well, so we decided to finally hang out together that night and so I took him to Martini's pub where he got to meet my good friend Boobie. Well, those two were like peas in a pod, with their overemphasized gay voice talk and yappin' about movies and religion. Hilarity was had by all.

Home On The Range...

But let this be a lesson to you all. Do not have a hangover whilst flying. Luckily, my dear friend Al drove me to the airport. The flight to Minneapolis was really good. Coincidentally, I sat in the exact same seat on the exact same plane I arrived in. I knew this because I left a magazine in the pocket and it was still there! Would a hot sexy women then sit next to me fulfilling this serendipidous moment? Alas, no.

Then we had to go back to the other end of the airport (you know, where I usually arrive from KC at), but this time I had and hour and a half to kill, so I had some pasta at a fine restaurant near my gate. We all get on the plane, but then wait, and wait, and wait, and wait. Finally, the captain instructs that the nose cone on the plane "has a history" so we had to switch planes. But guess where? That's right, all the funk away at the gate I arrive at!

I am done with Northwest Airlines. Not one smooth trip yet.

So this time I discovered that the Minneapolis freakin' airport has an automated train that goes from the main concourse all the way down to the G gates and saves you a good 7 minutes of walking. WELL THIS WOULD HAVE BEEN GOOD TO KNOW A WEEK EARLIER YA KNOW!!!

Finally arriving in KC, but late, Dollar Rent A Car obviously didn't have the Sebring I reserved, so now, I'm currently driving a Dodge Caravan. Someone direct me to the little league soccer game so I can fit right in please!

But let me tell you all something. Although I had the best week ever in Edmonton, I missed Kansas. So it was good to be back... home on the range.

Oklahoma, Oklahoma!

2007-04-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

Scottish Rite Masonic Temple
Guthrie, Oklahoma

On the last weekend in March, several of the local Masonic brethren from Auburn Lodge and I hopped in my kick ass Town & Country rental van down the Kansas Turnpike and made the four hour drive down to Guthrie, Oklahoma to stay and hang out at the infamous Scottish Rite Temple there.

Because it was my rental van, I had to drive. Unfortunately, an hour outside of Wichita, a terrential rain storm began. Let me tell you this was absolutely the most unbelievable rain I have ever seen. If it weren't for the lights on the truck in front of me, I wouldn't have been able to see where I was going. Stopping was out of the question as I wouldn't be able to see where I could pull over or would I know what was behind me. The rain was coming down so hard and fast, at one moment, my life passed before my eyes and I wondered what my mother was going to think knowing her son died on a highway in Kansas. Seriously, it was that scary. I've driven through snow storms in the BC Rockies, but this was really, really crazy. This went on for about an hour and a half.

Finally, we reached the Temple late Friday night and my friend Paul gave me a quick tour. And wow, this is absolutely the most beautiful building I have ever been in.

Saturday morning we got up early, and I registered, to which I had the secretary of my valley call ahead of time to confirm that me, a Canadian Mason was attending. There was a mix up and so one of the members asked me if I knew the 18th degree sign and password. I said, "As a matter of fact, I do." You see, they don't instruct them for any of the degrees anymore, but we do it in full in Edmonton. So I think my dear brother was caught off guard by him trying to catch ME off guard. That said, he probably didn't know that I'm currently the 2nd General of the Rose Croix body of the Edmonton Valley.

So they eventually let me and we watched degrees 17 to 21, then we had lunch and missed the 22nd, but caught 23 to 25. The 26th was not performed due to some of the cast not being able to make it. A banquet followed where the brethren invited their wives and girlfriends to which they were also invited to a play about Pontius Pilate and his dilemma.

Sunday we watched degrees 27 to 29 in the morning and 30 to 32 in the afternoon. The 31st has been revamped and is derived from the Egyptian Book of the Dead.

During the entire weekend, I was bugging my American Scottish Rite brethren and the caps they have to wear. In Canada, 32nd degree Masons wear a simple collar with a teutonic cross for a jewel at the end, where in th U.S., they wear black caps which in my opinion, makes them look like bell hops. So I continued to ask my friends why they haven't taken my bags up to my room yet.

Here are some of the photos of this beautiful building.

Left: One of the sitting rooms. Right: The Library

Left: Lodge room. Right: Egyptian Room

Left: Me and Bob Davis (Secretary of the Guthrie Valley). Right: A performance on stage. Look at the backdrops! This play was open to friends and family after the banquet.

These two are of the main auditorium being set up for a degree. The stage is very deep and has a couple dozen back drops which are used during the degree performances. The altar in the middle has a trap door on its back side.

Left: View from the first balcony. Right: Me at the big organ!

This is me and Dr. Jim Tresner, who is basically one of the most respected brethren in all of Masonry, especially in Scottish Rite circles. Saturday night he hosted an informal discussion in one of the sitting rooms where a couple dozen brethren asked him questions about Freemasonry. I stood up and brought greetings from the Supreme Council of Canada and the Edmonton Valley and proceeded to ask him two questions:

1) Which is your favourite degree in the Scottish Rite?
- He said, "The 18th, for obvious reasons."

2) Which is your favourite working tool?
- "The level."

Coincidentally, that's what I would answer.

I also asked a question regarding Buddhism and Freemasonry to which a brother from California answered very eloquently and was extemely enlightened by it all.

All and all it was an amazing trip, one I'll never forget and very glad I was able to take advantage of the short distance to travel while living in Topeka. The drive back was very pleasant, we stopped in Wichita for some food, and made it home in the late evening. I have to say again that I love driving the Kansas Turnpike. It's soooo smooth.

For all you Masons reading this, or anyone really, go visit this Temple and get a tour:

http://www.guthriescottishrite.org/

A Thursday - Go Jayhawks!

2007-03-23T00:29:00.000-07:00

Wow. I thought Oiler fever 11 months ago was hot. The folks in Topechka were at the local sports bars well over an hour before tip-off. Luckily my fellow co-worker arrived earlier to get us a table. Now consider this.... yours truly currently leads the officepool in the NCAA b-ball tourney.

You see, I've been a North Carolina Tarheels fan since 1982 when Michael Jordan shot that classic hoop to win the title with teammate James Worthy and legendary coach, Dean Smith (who I found out was from Topeka itself! That's really good trivia to know to make sure you don't get your ass kicked when you say you like the Tarheels. Trust me.)

Update: I ended up 3rd in the office pool due to UNC being knocked out in the Elite 8 by Georgetown.

A Zen Day

2007-03-19T15:44:00.000-07:00

The day after St. Paddy's Day, I took a drive around KC, specifically in Overland Park (OP) and headed to The Plaza, an area with shops and restaurants constructed and decorated in a Spanish style beauty. A creek with a promenade and bridges runs along the South side with brick condos dominating the view.

It was a warm day, so I parked my vehicle and took a walk around.

I went to Barnes & Noble bookstore to look for a book on Buddhism--a recent interest of mine. I was about to buy one when I thought I'd check out the magazine rack. There I found "What is Enlightenment?" magazine which featured a study on the various theories of evolution, the lastest "Astronomy" magazine which talked about black holes, and "Triangle - A Buddhist Review" magazine which is proving to be excellent.

I then ended up at a clothing store and found a Bonzai tree growing kit. (I followed the instructions and was supposed to see some growth after six weeks. I'm typing this six weeks later and nothin'.) Regardless, I was excited about having a little friend in my apartment.

So I walk out of the store and turn left down the sidewalk and there they were, two Buddhist monks fully robed, walking my way.

I then thought I should go read these magazines, so I walked down to the creek and sat on a bench and read. It was a peaceful moment. I thought about what it would be like to live in Kansas City. I think I would enjoy it.

On my drive out, I followed the creek southwest which turned into a wide boulevard park and huge beautiful houses on either side. This went on and on and I realized that this was a large affluent area, and then now I thought I could definitely live here.

St. Patrick's Day in Kansas City

2007-03-18T22:47:00.000-07:00

After getting in some practice Guinness the night before at O'Dooley's, in the morning, I zipped an hour East to KC to meet up with my buddy Chasmo to go check out the big ass Kansas City St. Patrick's Day Parade. And let me tell you ... this was the biggest craziest parade I have ever seen. Every single Irish clan had their own float, and some of the floats were HUGE!

After about an hour and a half we headed down to the trendy Westport area and whadda ya know, a massive beer gardens broke out!

I saw someone wearing a Canadian Olympic jacket, but after talking to them, found out she wasn't Canadian, but knew someone from Calgary (booo!).

Chas and I then grabbed some BBQ and went to another Irish pub nearer to Overland Park (south of KC). Now there was some crazy fun band playing and the bar was packed. It was one nutty night!

St. Practice Day

2007-03-18T15:31:00.000-07:00

Well, at Frances O'Dooley's Irish pub in Topeka -- the BEST Irish pub in the world by the way, Rich "The Irish Rebel" (see pic) played and sang on a night titled "St. Practice Day". Yes, that would be March 16th. It was good to see the Topechka Gang again--a great night was had by all. The best part was counting down to St. Patrick's Day.

Just like Christmas, eh?

First trip back home

2007-03-14T15:19:00.000-07:00

Flights of Fancy

For the first ten days in March, I headed home to E-Town. I walked out of my apartment in Topeka into a blizzard, and I almost forgot my passport. I couldn't find it, so I ransacked in a panic. Finally, after some prayer, I realized it was in my other suitcase that I wasn't bringing. Whew.

My flight from KC was uberlate, so I obviously was going to miss my connection in Minneapolis. They then decide to put me on a three hour flight to Seattle where I would quickly connect to Edmonton. Although I originally had an exit row windows seat to stretch my long legs, the new plane leaving Minn had me in row 43 in a middle seat. That suuucked. So we arrive in Seattle, and I run over to my gate, but I missed my flight by a few minutes. Next flight home.... 5 hours. Nap time. Luckily I also had time to go to the duty free shop.

Dad picked me up and I got my keys from my aunt who lives five minutes away. Got a call from my lodge buddy's who were at the local pub. I also got to see my ol'/new pal Matty from Australia. We had some needed drinks and good conversation.

All in all, a total of 19.5 hours of travel.

The Rest of the Week

A lot of you reading this were there for most of it, drinks at Shlebby's et al. But my birthday at O'Byrne's was an awesome night and finishing off at Urban Lounge (which had it's roof cave in a week later ironically).

Had dinner at my mom's and then the next day at my aunt's with my dad and his wife.

The rest of the week was spent at the ol' fraternity house for some traditional fun and games, but I managed to slip in a night of karaokeing at B-Street. Sadly, Brad the DJ wasn't there, but a good time was had.

The flight 'home' to Topeka, was normal, finally, and it was strange getting back 'home'. 'Home' is such a weird relative term, as right now, I have two 'homes'. But I can't figure out which one I miss more.

Vegas baby!

2007-02-26T10:42:00.000-08:00

A group of friends from Edmonton decided to plan a trip to Las Vegas for the end of February. So I thought I'd just hop on a plane from Kansas and join 'em. Believe it or not, but Edmonton to Vegas is about the same distance as Kansas to Vegas.

Departure
Anyway, there's an airline here called Allegiant Air which flies out of Topeka and Wichita directly to Vegas. But you can only do a Friday - Monday trip out of Topeka, so I drove two hours down to Wichita can left on a Wednesday, returning Saturday morning.

Little known fact: Unbeknowest to me until a week after my trip, the
movie "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles" starring John Candy and Steve Martin has
the pair meet on a plane which was diverted from Chicago to Wichita!

The plane ride was most fun. The Kansan people sitting near me, and the whole plane for that matter, was in a party mood, so drinks were had. I told them I was from Canada, we talked about that, and laughed all the way.

As the plane flew over the rough terrain of Arizona, the excitement started to really kick in as I'm a VV -- Vegas Virgin and I had no idea what to expect other than what I saw on movies and TV. As you may know, the airport in Vegas is pretty close to The Strip, so the view flying by all the crazy buildings and hotels, especially New York New York was really cool.

Arrival
As soon as you get out of your gate in Vegas, there are slot machines, just in case you didn't notice you were in Vegas.

As I waited for my bag, I couldn't help but notice two young clad women at the next carousel arguing. One got so pissed, she pushed her friend to the ground and continued swearing and ranting. The guy next to them didn't flinch, but I think he was enjoying the whole thing actually. As more ranting continued, security came by and eventually handcuffed them! It was then I knew security in Vegas was toit!

So I arrive before my friends at the Monte Carlo and had a nap in my room, then headed down to the hotel bar to have a rye and a burger. I called my friend in Edmonton to rub it in that I was in Vegas and to share in the excitement.

Finally, I hook up with one of the boys who arrived before the others, one "Gerelukstein" as we call him. His room was quite large for a single, but that's his style. Then we took to the Strip and I had my expert tour guide show me around.

Drinks here, drinks there, drinks wherever and whenever
As you know the best part of Vegas is that you can drink booze when and wherever you want. I saw very little police, but perhaps hotel security acts as the defacto cops anyway. Whenever we had to take a cab, I had to have a rye, just to soak in the novelty of it all. And you know when you just buy a drink at a bar and everyone then wants to head somewhere else, and you have to pound back your drink, so you get really drunk? Well, not in Vegas. Just bring the drink with you. Nice! And the uberbeauty from this Canuck is the rye in abundance was Canadian Club--the rye whisky that Al Capone used to smuggle.

To be continued...

Inner Quest

2007-02-16T18:51:00.000-08:00

I found out that there's a lodge in KC that conducts its meetings a little differently, so my bud Chasmo and I decided to check it out.

So on Valentine's Day, I drove down to KC and we visited Inner Quest lodge, who are based on the Traditional Observance (T.O.) model. But we thought the meeting was at 6:30, when it started at 6, so we were a bit late. No worries, we were allowed in at the appropriate time.

The meeting had a couple presentations, followed by some Mozart and Enya, who I both like very much.

At this time of year, there was quite a bit of snow, but I knew the little PT Cruiser I was driving, just like at home, would be able to handle it.

Afterward, we went to an excellent Chinese restaurant and I talked with a Past Grand Master of Kansas. Then I had to scoot home.

That was my first visit to a T.O. style lodge. But the experience only made me miss my own lodge back home and my brethren there.

The Nation called Kansas

2007-02-04T19:07:00.000-08:00

I know I don't have a lot of Topeka stories et, but KC is a pretty cool city. I was still waiting to make some friends, so KC was my closest outlet for fun.

On the Friday I thought I'd visit Orient Lodge where they put on a 2nd degree and it was done very well. Afterward, I thought I'd try out that Irish pub and see if Rich Stevenson was there. Well, he was and he remembered my name and that I was from Alberta! During his break, he introduced me to two people we'll call Larry and Liz. We shared some beers, I met some more people, and it appeared that some future good times here were to be had.

After a few drinks, I asked Rich if he would mind if I played a few tunes and he said, "Sure, come on up!" So I played "Hasn't Hit Me Yet" from Blue Rodeo, some U2 "All I Want Is You" and Neil Diamond "Sweet Caroline". The crowd seemed to enjoy it quite a bit. I now knew this was going to be my new home in Topeka.

The next day, I again headed to KC to meet up with a brother Mason we call "The Pontiff". We went out for Japanese food. Good stuff. Unfortunately afterward, Chasmo had to work, so Pont and I headed back to The Roxy where a really cool hippy band named Nation, was playing.

Well, like all of the music I've heard so far, Nation raised the bar even higher! They played all the classics--Jefferson Airplane, Steppenwolf, and more. But the song that literally made me feel the soul of rock in this state was when they played "Carry On Wayward Son" by the classic 70's prog rock band, Kansas! They nailed it. It was absolutely perfect. The vocal harmonies, the timing, and with a Hammond organ in the background fully rounded out the room. I was so impressed, I bought the organist a beer.

Oh, and guess which band is celebrating a 30 year anniversary? That's right ... Kansas! And guess what town they're from? Yeah... Topeka baby!

The waitress we deemed "The Evil One" as she continued to pimp shooters on us, was very nice. That night I really got to know The Pontiff and knew we'd be doing it again soon. All and all, a great night.

Super Duper Bowl

2007-01-31T19:00:00.000-08:00

I thought no American experience would be complete without watching a Superbowl game, so I drove down and joined some Mason buds, had some food, beer, and watched the game. I was cheering for the Bears and they were doing well in the first half, but then lost. I had no money on the game, so I really didn't care actually.

What really started to bother me though, was the cigarette smoke. Everyone at the table next to us was smoking and it was really getting to me, having sinusitis and all. I started to miss home and the no smoking bylaw quite a bit.

Did someone get the number of that truck?

2007-01-29T14:26:00.000-08:00

Friday January 26
My third work week complete and I once again go to Orient Lodge for their meeting and afterward catch up with a young Mason still in college at Washburn University here in town. I find out he's also an active member of the local Kappa Sigma fraternity chapter, so although I'm not a K-Sig, but a Deke (Delta Kappa Epsilon), we had a lot in common to talk about -- parties mainly. So we go for a beer at Boss Hawgs BBQ and chat, I head home to get out of the monkey suit and met up with him at Jeremiah Bullfrogs where it was completely packed and I found out where all the women go (finally).

Saturday January 27
The next day I head out to KC to meet up with my new bud Chasmo and another Mason brother by the nickname of "The Pontiff". We prime up a bit, go for steaks once again, and head to a bar called The Roxy. I thought it must be good because The Roxy in Vancouver is my fav bar there. Well, it was a shithole as far as bars I'm used to. Nonetheless, the band took the stage and once again, the music totally kicked ass. They played quite a bit of Zeppelin, but the singer had his own twist on the style, which was really refreshing to listen to.

After talking about the differences between Canadian and American Masonry with the bros, we get into the shots, as a hot waitress kept pimping 'em to us and we simply couldn't resist. I then befriend the folks at the table next to us, buy them a round of Slippery Nipples, and have them toast "To Canada, eh!"

After buying him a drink too, the band singer comes over and we talk music, Zep, and what not. Really cool guy.

Next thing you know we're in a gas station store trying to buy more beer, but they wouldn't let us--I guess it's a law or something. Anyway, we end up at this dudes house, where he has a fully stocked bar, keggerator with Bud on tap, and ... look out ... a karaoke machine. There was a woman amongst us who hailed from Chicago, so that's what I called her after she kept beckoning me as "Hey Canada, come over here!" So I sing some ABBA, my friends get shot down, I go outside in a stupour, slip on ice, scrape my hand, and we mosy on our way back to Chasmo's where I passout, waking up the next day, and dreading, absolutely dreading the drive back to Topechka. But I made it. Sunday was a write off. Had a blast though.

Like I always say, the best way to know someone is to both get hit by a truck together.

First Lodge meeting

2007-01-21T14:05:00.000-08:00

After a couple weeks, I thought it was time that I go check out one of the Masonic lodges in the area that I had emailed and received a reply from. Good ol' Orient Lodge #51. The lodge building looked like it was built in the 60's or 70's and it was also home to the local Scottish Rite valley. With suit on and apron in hand, I walked in and an older lady beckoned me, to which I asked to see the name of the gentleman who replied to my request to visit.

As it turns out, it was his birthday. (I later hear in passing that he fought in the battle of the Pacific in WWII). So I meet him and the other brethren. The women in the kitchen came out and gave me a meat and potatoes plate, which I gobbled up before the lodge meeting.

The lodge room is large and also has a big stage and has oval seating for at least 250. Carpet abound, but set up like a typical lodge. It was a short meeting and I was introduced. Afterward, the secretary took me to his office and he gave me a silk Masonic tie, a lodge embroidered sweatshirt, a ritual book, and a lodge history book. I then showed him on the computer where I'm from. One of the nicest men I've ever met and was amazed at the hospitality and warm welcome.

First weekend

2007-01-11T14:02:00.000-08:00

First Friday

On the night of Friday Jan. 11th, my co-worker and I did a little crawl around Topeka -- comedy night at Jeremiah Bullfrog's where the chicken wings were awesome and where we saw an up and comer comedian who was pretty darn funny. I bought his DVD for good karma because, I liked the show, it was good. Then we were going to check out a live band, but the bar they were playing in looked a bit rough for our tastes, so we drove on by. Being the Newfie she is, she suggested we head to a local Irish pub, to which I obliged. We had some food and that's when I discovered Rich Stevenson, also known as "The Irish Rebel".

Rich has a slight southern accent but can sound Irish on a dime. He played a pile of Irish songs on his Gibson acoustic guitar. My co-worker knew most of the songs, probably sings them in her sleep, but I knew maybe two of them, reminiscing about my days at the Rose n Crown in Edmonton singing along with Don Johnston (not the Miami Vice guy) and the "All Virgin Choir" (the regular patrons who sat around his make-shift grand piano).

Rich then pulled out what looked like bagpipes but without the blowing and it was higher pitched. The lonely distant sounds emanating from this beautiful traditional instrument reminded me of a few Braveheart and Titanic scenes, but as this Irish Rebel moved his fingers along, the sound waves were becoming unique and personal to me--a consistent familiar melody but a new song to hold onto. In listening, the music got me a little choked up, thinking about home and being far from it, but excited in not knowing who I'd meet, much like my grandfather did when he left Ukraine in his 20's and immigrated to Canada, not knowing a word of English, or knowing anyone. How scary that must have been. My current trip can't even compare.

Upon leaving the pub, Rich introduced himself to us and we mentioned we were from Canada. He was very friendly and asked us to return sometime soon. "Soon" for me would be three weeks later on my own as my co-worker headed back to Newfoundland in a week.

First Saturday

First Saturday Prior to arriving, I had made arrangements with a fellow Mason who lives in Kansas City (KC), and who I've conversed with on an online Masonic community since a couple years ago. I drove into town in the afternoon and he had invited several of his lodge brothers, including the Grand Secretary and Assistant Grand Secretary of Kansas. We had a few beers and all headed out for dinner, to which I ordered, yep, you guess it, KC strip! Upon meeting my fellow Mason in person, I knew right away that we'd be close friends. Although only a few years older, we have a tonne in common, with our political, religious, and philosophical views pretty much in synch. We own many of the same Masonic books so I knew we'd have lots to talk about. Newly single, I also knew he'd be a partner in crime on nights on the town.

After dinner, a few of us headed to a local bar where a live band was playing and where they had the largest beer selection I had ever seen. Too bad they didn't carry Big Rock though. For Canadian beers, these American bars are skimpy and usually only carry Labatt (oooh). But in knowing some of our excellent beers like Big Rock and Alexander Keith's, the Americans probably don't want to feel inferior. Don't get me wrong, there's some good beers like ESB, but this Boulevard beer they rant about here isn't that great--in fact, I think it kind of sucks. I told our waitress, who looked exactly like an old friend of mine in Edmonton, that they need more Canadian beers like Keith's, Traditional, and Grasshopper. I'm sure they got right on that.

I dropped my friend off at home and then headed home myself, knowing that I would return to KC for further frivolity.

First stint in Kansas

2007-01-09T10:49:00.000-08:00

Arrival

I arrived by plane and car January 8, 2007. With flight delays in Edmonton, it turned out to be a long day. Finally arriving at the Kansas City airport (KCI), I waited for the Dollar rental shuttle. And waited. And waited. Finally it arrived. I almost felt "stuck" in nowhereland, like in "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles". I murmured to myself, "What the hell am I doing here?" Then thought of that Blue Rodeo song "And I wonder what I am I doin' here" which stuck in my head through the drive to the car rental lot.

I got in the Sebring rental and popped in my familiar Yes music compliation. The hour or so drive in a comfortable Sebring from the Kansas City airport to Topeka was dark and a bit scary because I had no idea where I was going other than road signs which led me to Topeka. I was amazed at the "Night Driver" style Kansas Turnpike and how fast some of the turns were, but it was fun, knowing that I would frequent this winding and hilly snake. I looked forward to driving it in the daylight.

I arrive in Topeka at my apartment to which it took me a few minutes to follow the instructions I was given to take the key out of the keybox. I got in and called my co-worker to let her know I got into town, although late. My furnished apartment is humble, yet has everything I need, and suitable for entertaining if need be. I knew I'd be doing a lot of cooking for myself, which I was excited about.

First Day

My co-worker picked me up in the morning from her hotel, as she only had a couple weeks left, until I fully took over. Seeing Topeka for the first time in daylight was like getting a snapshot in time, that many of the houses on this road are numerous and old, yet characteristic of middle America.

The people at work are very friendly and pleasant and I knew I would be comfortable here. It reminded me a lot of my last onsite contract at an energy company, but perhaps not as high-paced.

My co-worker and I had dinner at Chili's, which in my opinion, has the best ribs in the world.

Meet-Up with the Director

The first I was there, I found out that the director of our division was in KC on the Thursday night, so we arranged to drive back to meet him up for dinner and drinks. On our way to see him, we got a bit lost in KC, and took a wrong turn, ending up in what could be called "the hood". I say that because I see a guy on his porch drinking booze out of a bag. We quickly turned around and then a few blocks back where we came from, there were a few police cars at a store with their sirens on. Somethin' happ'nd in da hood.

We managed to weave back in the direction of downtown KC, and found the hotel. Downtown KC reminded me of Calgary--barren, with quality box-like architecture and like Edmonton with a nostalgic warehouse district.

The three of us headed to a local sports bar for some delicious 16oz Kansas City striploin (KC strip) which was on sale for $9. This was my first taste of the infamous steak and I can say, it was one of the best steaks I've ever had.

After that, we looked at a tourist map and I suggested a pub a few blocks away where we found a jazz/blues piano/harmonica duo playing some real cool sounds. This was my first taste of the culture here and with great steaks and soulful music, I was in love.