Gary Strachan – "Write" Said Fred
Whimsical observations from deep within an erratic mind
Following a highly enjoyable two weeks on the North American continent, this evening my feet will leave Canadian terra firma for the first time in a fortnight when I board my return flight to Blighty. That's unless you count the occasions when my feet metaphorically left the ground, a consequence of awe manifesting from the beautiful... Continue Reading →
I’ve seen some beautiful, awe inspiring breakfast views during the half century years I’ve ventured aimlessly through this oft idiosyncratic existence. For instance overlooking Lake Windermere from the restaurant of the Bowness’ Olde England Hotel. Accompanied by comforting warmth from late spring solar rays in Cumbria, a sight that in conjunction with my full English... Continue Reading →
The final week of my Canadian odyssey has coincided with this vast and beautiful nations Thanksgiving. A time when it's populous give thanks for a plentiful Fall harvest, gratitude at living in this beautiful country, along with honouring unofficial king William Shatner. As an Englishman I'm unsure if I'm allowed to take part in these... Continue Reading →
My last two days in Canada have seen a couple of life firsts for GJ Strachan. My half century or so on this planet never previously exposing me to experiences of watching close hand a theatre production sound and lighting team at work, or in a position where I'd been required to undertake pool maintenance... Continue Reading →
This morning, an Ontarian fall chill greeted me as I jumped groggily from my bed. The warmth of yesterday, which was my weather companion as I meandered the harbour and town centre of Westport, Ontario, a distant memory as I stood shivering in my undies checking my phone. Prior to announcing I was awake by... Continue Reading →
“You’re Welcome!” A retort I’ve heard on numerous occasions from my hosts since arriving in Ontario; ordinarily in response to gratuitous responses of “Thank you.” I’m unsure if that is a nationwide Canadian trait or merely the good manners afforded by residents of the Ontarian province. Irrespective, it’s behaviour I find endearing and worthy of... Continue Reading →
It's day five of my sojourn in the land of the maple leaf. Yesterday commenced with a Canadian breakfast of pancakes with maple syrup, accompanied by bacon and sausage whilst diner in situ. A Brockville eatery next to a rail track crossroads providing me with an authentic North American continent experience which I seek on... Continue Reading →
It's Thursday afternoon, I'm currently bound for Manchester airport station on the 14.50 train from Leeds. The locomotive carriages packed like my case, which lays under a ruck of luggage six feet from yours truly at the end of this compartment. Not crammed full, though with t-shirts, jeans, shirts and undies like my holdall. Moreover,... Continue Reading →
Rejoice - The wanderer has returned!!.... A metaphoric celestial choir exults the Yorkshire girl's recrudescence; the Strachan home awash with joy at once again holding the daughter absent for over four score months. Two years where as she sampled life in the land of the maple leaf. The Rocky Mountains and Banff National Park providing... Continue Reading →