Daryl's Blog

Okay, here is the list of locations and prices (where we bought gas) so far on this trip: July 13, 2009 Squamish 111.9 Abbotsford 101.9 Kamloops 103.9 Jasper 94.9 July 14, 2009 Spruce Grove 86.9

Even stopping in Edson, I was only able to get 5 hours sleep. I found myself sluggish to start the day even after a shower. We loaded the van and headed to Onoway for our 11AM show at the Library. The librarian was there at 10AM to let us in so we could get set up. The show went well, a few moments I would like to have back but there was lots of laughter from the kids as we solved a few mysteries together. Pictures will be coming soon. We received some great parting gifts (including snacks) from the Library, and Shantelle and I thank you for your wonderful hospitality. I found out someone I knew from my Barrhead days was still involved with the library and is opening a Museum with her husband. Nice to see Yvonne is still her energetic self. From there it was off to Spruce Grove to visit their library and check our internet stuff. Also it was the cheapest gas price I'd seen on this trip 86.9!!! After a couple of hours we headed East to North Battleford where we docked to spend the night with my wife's sister and her husband. I had never visited them in before but it was fun getting caught up. Although I have to say after two days it's getting tiring unloading the van!!! Who's idea was this again?????? Ah well, it's a good thing as I've always said it's the best job I've ever had, those smiles from this morning said it all. Now I'm sitting in front of my sister-in-law's computer typing this blog with a big thanks to both of you. Tomorrow will be a drive through Saskatchewan (the highway is so flat and boring here) and into Manitoba so we can be ready for our show in Brandon. Speaking of Saskatchewan, is there anything you could do to make your highways more interesting like billboards with mountains??? Just a thought!Good Night all.

Well we got away about an hour later than I wanted to and I still managed to forget some things (like my firewire and Kodak USB wire) even when I went back to get my coat. Some things never change. The trip was filled with grey skies and rain most of the way except for Kamloops (where we stopped for lunch) which gave us the only sunshine of the first leg. The original plan was to drive to Edmonton, stay overnight at our good friend, Bob's, get up the next morning and double back to Onoway for our show. Turns out after 16 hours of driving I decided the Motel in Edson next to Tim's looked pretty good at $65 for the night (all accountants can add the GST). The drive allowed my daughter, Shantelle and I, to have some interesting discussions. I'm amazed at how much she really does know and how much she has matured over the past year. It makes me a proud to watch her ease into adulthood. At the same time there may still be a few things she might ask for help with. We covered many things like family eccentrics, who some people are in relation to me, a little politics and even some crazy obscure topics like who watches Hannah Montana (I've learned 8 year olds and under are watching Billy Ray's daughter. hope she never does Achy Breaky Heart!!) Of course we covered the show as well. Early in the trip I caught up with my good friend, Jacob, and he bought us some snacks at Tim Horton's. Found out his wife was still struggling with her illness, hang in there Sandi, we're praying for you. Jacob has come along way from his brain surgery to correct his Parkinson's. He works on his computers again and is enjoying life. Hope that disk works for you. Jacob has played Bass for me when I used to do the odd adult concert (amazing no one through vegetables at me when I performed my songs!!!)An amazing person who is always there to help me move, with my work, and answer any questions I may have about the bible! Thanks Jacob. After that, Shantelle headed up the Yellowhead highway and enjoyed the sights. In Jasper there were lots of Elk around (including babies) I hope to have pics for you soon although they may have to wait until we get to Moncton. After that it was getting to Edson, then it was unload the van, settle in for some sleep and getting ready for the show in the AM.

Well I guess you could call it that. It's actually 1:30AM and I'm still preparing. Seems to be the case every year, there's always one more thing to do. I just have to make sure I have the puppets, my costume, my guitar, the puppeteer (my daughter) and me and we will have a show. One regret this summer is Julie (who plays Lou Lou) can't make the trip due to other commitments but she will be with us when we return to Moncton for Contact East. She really wanted to see Green Gables. I sit here typing thinking of all the places we will be, the wonderful invitations to stop by and even a few overnight offers. No musical performers ever turn down a little home when offered. The other questions I always have, are the shows ready? Will the kids like them? Did I put enough content in the script that works with the theme? It usually works out but I always stress over it anyway. Hopefully we will be able to access the internet everyday as we travel. There is so much to show and learn. There has to be more exciting attractions like the Giant Perogy. If anyone knows any please email me at darylrobb@talkinglobster.com I'll see you later. Have claws of fun