THEBARTONS.NET

Cake Pops!

2012-03-11T21:17:00.002-07:00

Alexander went to a friend's birthday party this weekend. It was a 'splatter party' (involving paint) which was great fun. Instead of a cake, the birthday girl's mum had made these - cake pops!

Alexander in the Snow

2012-02-23T17:38:00.000-08:00

A photo from our recent snowshoeing trip on Cypress.

Snowshoeing on Cypress

2012-02-22T12:52:00.004-08:00

This little video shows us snowshoeing last Saturday on Cypress Mountain in West Vancouver. By this point Alexander's snow shoes were off, but he was still happy walking around in the snow. Click here to view.

Another Blog Refresh

2011-12-14T11:11:00.001-08:00

It's time for another blog refresh! And this one's the most significant yet. Blogger has developed these 'dynamic layouts' which are very cool. I hope you like the new look. My clicking on 'magazine' on the left hand side you can change the way the blog is displayed. Info about us is now under a link at the top called 'About Us' and links to our other websites are under 'Our Other Stuff'. There are also direct links to our Flickr photos and YouTube videos. As always, let us know if you have any comments.

In the meantime, here is another photo of Alexander's cute ear muffs.

A few More Birthday Pictures

2011-12-13T22:13:00.001-08:00

Here's a few photos from today...

Alexander meets Santa at Granville Island!

Thanks to Great Nana for these lovely bear ear muffs!

The Birthday Family Photo. Still with the ear muffs.

Birthday bath time with new bath time toys.

Happy Birthday Alexander

2011-12-13T11:02:00.003-08:00

We can't can't believe that Alexander is two years old today! Where does the time go. Here's a few photos from the last few days. He had a party on Sunday. p.s. sorry for the lack of blog entries lately. Sometimes life gets too busy!

Alexander blowing his candles out on Sunday.

Alexander gets ready to blow out his two candles,

Alexander can't wait to get tucked in

There appears to be some cake around his face!

Earlier on in the week, Alexander had another party at Small Group.

And this funny little spinner toy thing had him transfixed!

After his party on Sunday it was time to head off to Stanley Park to go on the miniature train. Part of Tim's work Christmas party. Alexander is not sure about it at all!

Urh... Not liking the snowmen then.

Hope you all like the photos. We went to Seattle last weekend, so hopefully I'll post of few of those photos soon as well.

Happy Autumn

2011-10-23T00:17:00.000-07:00

There are beautiful coloured leaves on the trees right now. Here are a couple of photos from today.

Back from The Rockies

2011-09-11T22:11:00.001-07:00

We have just got back from a week in The Rockies with my Mum. We stayed in several places including Revelstoke, Jasper and Banff. Everyone had a great time and obviously it was wonderful to spend time with my mum and for Alexander and her to spend time together as well. We took LOADS of photos which I will download, sort out and upload a selection in due course. It always takes longer than I'd like these days. Can't imagine why...

Alexander eats Miso Soup

2011-09-01T15:56:00.000-07:00

My mum is visiting at the moment. Last night we went out for sushi and Alexander loved the miso soup. Click here to watch a clip!

Spagetti and Corn

2011-08-16T22:26:00.001-07:00

Alexander likes both, apparently.

Thetis Island Retreat

2011-07-26T12:51:00.000-07:00

This weekend saw our Third Annual Thetis Island Small Group Retreat take place. Thetis is a beautiful little island off the coast of Vancouver Island. We drive over, using two ferries, while the others, who did not need any baby stuff(!) were able to fly in 20 minutes from Vancouver. Here are a few photos.

Firstly, the Group Shot. We make a sorry looking bunch!

Amazing blue skies and calm waters.

There was time to go kayaking...

And time to hang out at the cabin!

Off to the hair dresser

2011-07-16T14:55:00.000-07:00

It was overdue. Alexander needed a haircut. So it was off to The Hairloft in the Kidsmarket on Granville Island. But Alexander wouldn't sit in the train or in a car, only on his mama's lap. Here are a few photos.

All done. Looking smart!

Vancouver from the Air

2011-06-02T07:58:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I attended the Planning Institute of British Columbia's annual conference in Nanaimo, which is on Vancouver Island. Here's a photo taken on my phone on the way back.

On Saturday we're off to Alaska to join Steph's parents for a week of exciting adventures. There will be lots of photos I'm sure.

- Posted from my iPhone

A little family portrait

2011-05-03T09:33:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick family portrait I took using our new Panasonic LX5, which I am very excited about. Anyway, more about the camera later. For now, here's a quick picture.

Happy Easter

2011-04-22T23:40:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely family day out today at Steveston, a fishing village in Richmond, just south of Vancouver. We ate fish and chips, toured the salmon cannery museum and hung out at Garry Point Park. This park juts out into the Straight of Georgia so is usually fairly breezy. Today there was a lot of kite flying going on, which Alexander found fascinating. He also loved the beach. After a nap (for Alexander), a cup of tea (for Steph) and a coffee (for Tim) we headed to a great children's play area that has loads of things to keep smaller ones occupied. Of course, at Alexander's age, it also keeps the parents occupied as well. Here are a few photos from our day.

Alexander was fascinated with the kite flying. Had he had a go himself though, we fear we would be still looking for him somewhere up the Fraser Valley.

Alexander seemingly would have been quite happy to wade out into the estuary had we not stopped him. I played around with this photo a little, including adding a sepia tint, in case you were wandering.

Off at the children's play area, Alexander loved a train. This playground actually represents the end of the old interurban train line from Vancouver, so the model train is highly appropriate. It would be great if the real thing was still in operation though.

And finally, Alexander examines some daffodils. One minute he's stroking them gently, the next... well, as they said in Short Circuit, 'no reassemble'!

Out walking with Alexander

2011-03-21T12:48:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's right, walking. With Alexander. Outside!!! Yesterday Alexander got to test his new outdoor shoes for the first time.. outdoors! We just went down to the Coal Harbour seawall. We was fascinated. At first, when let out of the stroller, he just stood there, on the grass, as if taking it all in for the first time. Or maybe getting a feel for the grass/ mud. Anyhow, he soon got used to it and was very interested in the Red Men near the Westin Bayshore Hotel (see photo below). Steph and I were looking at him and realised he really isn't a baby anymore - he's a little boy! Hope you like the pictures. (One other thing we realised - he doesn't have enough trousers. They're going to get muddy and need washing a lot more frequently than before!)

Alexander and Steph pose with a Red Man on the Coal Harbour Seawall.

Alexander takes his first steps on the grass.

Harbour Air Sea Plane - Instagram

2011-03-16T14:17:00.001-07:00

Harbour Air Sea Plane - Instagram a photo by timbarton on Flickr.

Here's a photo I took this lunchtime - do you like the effect?

Snowshoeing on Cypress with my sister

2011-03-07T12:49:00.000-08:00

Laura came for a very brief visit this weekend. The weather was good (sorry Rachel and Chris!) so we headed up Cypress for some snowshoeing. Here are some photos.

Steph and Laura pose near the beginning. All fresh faced and raring to go!

It was a winter wonderland. Note pack on back...

And in the pack is... Alexander!!! Rented from Mountain Equipment Co-op it did a good job. But by the end my shoulders were in a lot of pain!

Towards the end Laura decided it was time to give carrying Alexander a go. Much to the relief of my shoulders. As we neared the end we saw a bit of a sunset. Very beautiful.

Here's the view Laura and Steph are looking at. Pretty cool clouds and light.

And finally, Laura carefully steps down a small bank of snow. Great expression!

Hopefully it won't be too long before we see you again Laura. And next time bring your husband with you!

Rachel and Chris Visit

2011-02-28T12:52:00.000-08:00

Rachel and Chris, some friends of ours from the UK, arrived yesterday for a visit. They have brought with them much snow! Vancouver has become a winter wonderland again, at least temporarily. Yesterday we (mainly Chris) made a snowman on the beach. Now its not often you can say that!

Barton Family Photo

2011-01-18T21:21:00.000-08:00

Here's the missing Christmas family shot from my side of the family. Thanks to my sister for providing the image.

Holiday Review

2011-01-11T12:32:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Its about time for an update I think. We traveled back to the UK for Christmas to spend time with our families, which was lovely. The flights were a little tricky with Alexander not wanting to sit still on our laps for long. And who can blame him - much more fun to be crawling or walking (while holding onto things) around and exploring. While the weather was still very cold, we managed to get out for walks several times, including along the Thames, Bushy Park and Richmond Park and around Dover while we were there.

I'm still waiting for my sister to send me a family photo from Molesey, but below is a photo from Dover of us and some of Steph's family.

And here is one of us and our friends, Steve and Julie and Mike and May. It used to be that the six of us would hang out together. Now its 11! It was lovely to see them and we only wish it could have been for longer.

This is a vaguely organised looking photo. I have many others that include screaming or running children!

I will upload some more photos of our trip once we have them sorted out.

It was Steph's birthday on Sunday - 33! I still think this is early 30's, just. As a birthday treat, Steph went back to work yesterday, for the first time since before Alexander was born. At the moment she's just doing Monday's so nothing too stressful, for her anyway. For me, it means I have to get Alexander up, dressed, fed and off to a friends for the day. To his credit though, Alexander was apparently very well behaved.

And finally, for this entry anyway, Alexander has taken his first unaided steps! - watch the video here!

Coconut Bras

2010-11-27T22:47:00.000-08:00

Here is a beautiful photo of Steph and I at our friend Mim's hawaiian themed Birthday Party. I'm not really sure what to say about it apart from that scooping out the coconuts took a long time!

Ready for winter

2010-11-24T12:17:00.000-08:00

Alexander gets ready for winter with his ski suit.

Winter is upon us

2010-11-21T22:15:00.000-08:00

Here are a few photos from the last few days. We woke up Saturday to snow. Although it melted rapidly in the City, it's amazing to see it on the mountains as the sun sets. Plus, we did a little shopping!

Alexander is 11 months old

2010-11-16T13:27:00.001-08:00

I notice the last post said he was 10 months old. That means its once again been a month between updates - sorry! Here's a photo of the boy in the pool with Steph. We go 'swimming' with him every Saturday morning. And then go for brunch afterward with friends. It's a highlight of the week!

Alexander is nearly 10 months old

2010-10-08T14:33:00.002-07:00

Yikes. Time goes so fast. Adults don't age much in a month. Babies change significantly!

Here's a little picture of Alexander from last week. He's moving on to formula instead of breast milk and he doesn't like it!

- Posted from my iPhone

Photos from Quadra Island

2010-09-05T16:45:00.001-07:00

I have uploaded some of the more scenic photos from our Quadra Island trip to Flickr. You can take a look at the sideshow of them by accessing this link. A selection of the more personal ones are included below.

The first few are on the ferry on the way to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. One is Alexander having a bath in the sink(!) and the last couple are on Rebecca Spit on Quadra Island.

Alexander's new suit

2010-09-04T16:01:00.000-07:00

We are off to a wedding tomorrow so Alexander needed a wedding outfit!

Back from Quadra Island

2010-09-03T21:32:00.000-07:00

We got back from Quadra Island on Wednesday. We had a great time kayaking, hiking and watching the sunrise from our cabin on the beach. Laura and Iain are now in Whistler and we'll join them for a couple of days next Thursday. I will post some photos soon from the trip.

Holidays

2010-08-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

Laura and Iain arrive in a few hours. Hurrah!

- Posted from my iPhone

Blog refresh

2010-07-29T22:55:00.000-07:00

Hope you like the blog refresh that I've now completed. It was overdue as Alexander hadn't looked like a newborn for a while now! You might also have noticed that I changed the blogger template, but nothing too radical! Don't forget, the easiest way to keep up to date with thebartons.net is to subscribe to the RSS feed, which you can access on the right hand side, below the flickr photos. Hope you like the new look, and I guess it won't be long before the new header picture will be out of date and I'll have to redo it again.

Photos from Thetis Island

2010-07-27T22:17:00.004-07:00

We had a mini retreat with our Church Small Group a couple of weekends ago. We stated on Thetis Island, one of the Gulf Islands. it took a while, but here are a few photos of the trip. And here's one below, to encourage you to check out the rest!

Babies and Movies

2010-07-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

It's been seven months, but we finally managed to get to see a movie in the cinema yesterday, and it was Inception. The reason for our movie watching sabbatical was, of course, Alexander. We always went together before, so we haven't been since. Until yesterday. But having a 7 month old meant we were experiencing one more new thing; the 'Movies for Mommies' (and Daddies and babies) showing. What a ride! Before the movie started we had our photo taken for free by a professional photographer and had taken part in a free baby aerobics/ sing along session.

And then the movie started... I don't know if it was the plot or the constant background baby noises, (including the small child whose head appeared unexpectedly next to me from behind when he wedged it between the seats) but I was slightly struggling to keep up. Having to change Alexander's diaper half way through probably didn't help either, although we did this by laying him on our laps rather than leaving the room. Anyway, although slightly confused by the end, I thought it was a fantastic movie and I really enjoyed it. Then again, after a seven month drought, I fear I may have thought the same about Sex and the City 2.

Alexander and flag

2010-07-19T17:29:00.000-07:00

And while I'm in the mood, here's another photo of Alexander from Canada Day.

- Posted from my iPhone

Fun Weekend

2010-07-19T14:25:00.002-07:00

We had a fun weekend around Vancouver. We went to the outdoor swimming pool at Second Beach, hung out with friends ad did a little shopping.

Here's Alexander enjoying himself at home on Sunday.

- Posted from my iPhone

World Cup Exit

2010-06-27T15:37:00.002-07:00

So, a disappointing day with England going out of the world cup. We watched the game with a German friend of ours, Lars, and his Canadian wife, Janice. She was the ref! It actually gave it a sense of perspective. Being here in Canada seems to do that. A more global, less English focused view of the world. I'm disappointed (and so was Alexander - see below), but my identity and pride is not caught up with my nationality. We are all made for a much higher purpose!

- Posted from my iPhone

Happy 6 Month Birthday Alexander!

2010-06-13T21:12:00.000-07:00

Alexander is six months old today! Let's celebrate with a new photo of him.

Alexander is progressing

2010-06-12T16:42:00.000-07:00

As you can see from the previous post below, Alexander is now eating! He also has a new high chair which we bought him today, which he seems to like. He has also been wearing his England top today for obvious reasons. Pity about the goal we let in. Never mind, I have confidence we'll progress.

Alexander eats!

2010-06-12T16:38:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful holiday

2010-05-31T12:40:00.000-07:00

We are now back from a wonderful trip to the UK. Our baby Alexander got to meet all his family and many of our friends. It was a great three weeks. I think we balanced the amount of travel we did in the UK well. We stayed most of the time with my mum and Steph's parents, but took a couple of trips to other places as well. We took loads of photos. Click here to see a selection.
We are going to use some of the photos to create a scrap book of Alexander's first holiday. He traveled very well, especially on the flights which could have been difficult. He also seemed happy to be held by lots of different people, a very laid back and relaxed baby - a good sign we hope. More to follow...

Arms folded, ready to get down to work

2010-04-30T12:15:00.001-07:00

Two posts in one day! Well, I was feeling guilt for not posting in a while. So here's another photo of our baby boy. Arms folded, ready to get down to work...

Nearly home

2010-04-30T12:06:00.000-07:00

So, next week we head back to the UK for a three week visit. We're really excited and looking forward to it. Alexander can't stop talking about how he's looking forward to meeting everyone. Well, ok, he's saying something. We can only guess at what it is.

We're mainly basing ourselves in Molesey and Dover, with a few trips to other places thrown in for good measure. The 9 hour flight will be sure to mess up Alexander for a few weeks apparently, so he'll be adjusted by the time we fly back again.

See you soon...

Alexander sitting up (if assisted)

2010-04-05T22:02:00.000-07:00

Here's another photo of our beautiful boy! We like this one.

Work permit renewal

2010-03-24T07:53:00.001-07:00

Our new work permits have finally arrived. The current ones expire mid April so it is comforting to have these new two year permits in our hands. They cover us staying here up to April 2012. That sounds a long way off, but we all know it will go so quickly. We will also be eligible to apply for permanent residency within the next few months, having been here nearly two years now. That would enable us to stay indefinately.

- Posted from my iPhone

A quick baby photo update

2010-03-07T16:55:00.001-08:00

Here's a quick photo of Alexander I took just now on the iphone. Relaxing in his chair.

A new blog

2010-03-05T15:55:00.000-08:00

It's kind of a newish year still and Lent has started. Either way, I've decided to try to be more disciplined and focus on a couple of key interests this this year(I know - the baby). Well, apart from the baby, photography and urban planning/ design are what I am passionate about. So, thinking I could somehow combine these two things I have set up a new blog cunningly entitled Planning Picture. So, take a look and if you subscribe to this blog via RSS, please consider doing the same with my new blog. Thanks!

Olympic Atmosphere

2010-02-22T21:44:00.001-08:00

From what I've heard there has been a fair amount of coverage criticising the Olympic Games in the UK. Well everyone in Great Britain, we just wanted to tell you that over here, where it's actually happening, the atmosphere is amazing and everyone is having a great time. The city centre streets are absolutely packed (with people, not cars) and there are queues five hours long for some exhibitions and events but everyone is being very good natured about it and treating it as part of the experince. We queued up for 2 1/2 hours to get into House of Switzerland on Saturday for a cheese fondue. I'm not boasting about it, but we did. But the fondue was excellent and it didn't take long to reinstate Switzerland as my number 3 team. We've had a great time at the actual Olympic events we've been to but its also easy to feel part of what's going on just by walking the streets. If London can create a similar atmosphere in 2012 they'll be doing well.

- Posted from my iPhone

The Vancouver Panorama

2010-02-19T22:47:00.000-08:00

Here's a panorama taken from the Vancouver Convention Centre, near the Olympic torch. This is three photos stitched together. Click on it to see it bigger or click here to see it on flickr.

Olympic Walk About

2010-02-14T23:39:00.000-08:00

We got out and about on Saturday to experience a little of the Olympic Spirit. Here are a few photos...

This is Robson Square.

Steph on Granville Street

The Olympic Cauldron

Many people are frustrated by the seemingly over zealous security...

Vancouver Violent Protests

2010-02-13T23:16:00.000-08:00

There were violent protests this morning in Vancouver. Well, I say protests, but I don't think they were protesting about anything - they just wanted to cause trouble. Here's a photo of the police line that was formed at the entrance to Stanley Park at West Georgia Street.

The Olympics are here!

2010-02-12T22:47:00.002-08:00

Just saw the Vancouver Winter Olympic Opening Ceremony on tv at a friend's apartment and were then fortunate enough to see the fireworks live over Coal Harbour from their balcony. If you don't believe us, here's the video...

The Family Portrait

2010-02-07T17:48:00.000-08:00

Janet took this shot of the three of us just before they left. It's the best picture of the three of us we've got.

Steph's parents and Alexander

2010-02-06T13:16:00.001-08:00

The next grandparent shot! This time Janet and Jonathan and the little monkey.

It was great having my mum and then Steph's parents to stay. WE had their combined help for nearly a month. Now we have to cope on our own. Yikes!

My mum and Alexander

2010-02-02T16:09:00.001-08:00

Here's a quick shot of my mum with Alexander.

- Posted from my iPhone

Overdue update

2010-02-02T10:31:00.002-08:00

It's been a while. Sorry. There doesn't seem like a lot of time to do the things we used to do at the moment. Make that virtually no time at all. Not that I'm complaining. Seeing the little fella smile more this past week has been amazing. He's so cute! Steph could use some more sleep for sure. She is obviously the one getting up in the night etc. So is feeling it more than me. Her parents, Jonathan and Janet, are here at the moment but leave on Thursday. They, like my mum, have been a great help in cooking, cleaning, holding him and generally being there. From Friday onwards we're on our own again though, so it will be interesting what routine, or lack of, we fall into.

Oh, we also bought a car at the weekend. A Mazda6. We pick it up later this week. Very exciting. We can get up on a Saturday morning and think, 'I know, let's drive to Vegas today!'

We have also booked our flight home for May. We'll be back for the last three weeks of the month. It will be good to see everyone. I will post some more photos soon. Bye for now...

- Posted from my iPhone

Mum is here

2010-01-15T08:23:00.001-08:00

My mum finally got here on Monday after being delayed over the weekend due to the snow in England. Obviously it was upsetting for everyone that she was delayed, but now she's here she is enjoying Alexander and we're enjoying mum cooked dinners!

Steph and mum haven't been out that much as mum swapped snow for rain when she got here. But it's supposed to ease up later today and tomorrow should be clear.

Alexander is starting to make some funny noises. I think he's trying to talk. It won't be long before he's counting to ten (as taught by Steph) and naming world countries and their capitals (as taught by me).

- Posted from my iPhone

Hungry Baby

2010-01-02T14:42:00.000-08:00

Alexander was hungry last night so he sneaked into the kitchen for some cereal. Fortunately we tracked him down...

A few more photos of Alexander

2009-12-28T21:25:00.000-08:00

Here are a few more photos of our little boy. He is currently suffering from 'peely head skin' - i.e. he has dry skin - so don't be alarmed. Anyway, he still looks cute!

The first photo has Alexander under the Christmas tree. What a present!

Now he's peaking out from behind his blanket.

I couldn't help adding a little tinsel to his basket. Ha ha...

Its been a long day.

And finally, drying his socks...

Happy Christmas

2009-12-25T14:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Christmas everyone. We wish everyone a very merry Christmas, wherever they are around the world. We just got back from a wonderful brunch at the Sylvia Hotel, at English Bay. There were seven of us, or eight if you count Alexander! After nine months, Steph was finally able to enjoy Eggs Benedict again - and the Sylvia does it the best. Yummy!

Here are a couple of photos that our friends took of us at English Bay afterward. Differences with last year? Well, no snow this year, but a baby instead!

Baby's first trip to the park

2009-12-22T21:24:00.001-08:00

Yesterday we got out before dark for the first time. Just a short walk down Robson Street to the edge of Stanley Park where we showed Alexander Lost Lagoon, before turning round and coming back. Oh, and of course, we had to stop for a festive peppermint mocha from Starbucks on route. Well, I needed the prop.

The first family photo

2009-12-22T19:30:00.003-08:00

It's only from the iPhone, but it will do until something better materializes. Thanks Doug for pressing the shutter button.

I notice that this is not a great quality photo. I will look into this for future photo posts from the iphone.

- Posted from my iPhone

Photos of Alexander in Hospital

2009-12-21T12:20:00.006-08:00

We have finally had a chance to look at the photos we took at the hospital. Here are a few of the highlights.

Firstly, here's Steph with Alexander in her hi-tec hospital bed.

Secondly, here is little Alexander sleeping like a baby. Hang on...

Thirdly, here is daddy (that's me!) giving Alexander his first bath. Quite scary for daddy. Not sure what my boy thought of it.

And lastly, outside St. Pauls Hospital. So many lights (Thanks Doug)!

Hope you enjoy these. We'll put up more in due course. And remember, if you use an RSS reader, why not subscribe to thebartons.net feed so you don't miss an update!

Alexander at 6 days old

2009-12-20T23:05:00.008-08:00

Here's a picture I took yesterday of Alexander in his Moses Basket.

Alexander is one week old!

2009-12-20T17:06:00.000-08:00

Happy one week birthday Alexander! We can't believe a week has gone past already. That's probably because it just seems like one long, sleep deprived day. Actually, the last two nights we have been able to get a little more sleep, but he's not yet fully become a creature of the day.

It has been tough going for Steph and I. Alexander is finding it difficult to latch on for feeding, so we're trying various ways to encourage him. We always have to 'finger feed' him though, using expressed milk or formula, to make sure he gets enough food. Hopefully this will only last until he gets the idea of breast feeding properly.

Wow, I can see the content and tone of this blog changing before my eyes!

He may only be a week old, but already we think he has a personality. He makes us laugh and cry with joy. Just the waving of his arms of a facial expression are enough to make it all worth while, despite the frustrations and sleepless nights.

And to see Steph become a mum is to see her exhibit a whole new side of her personality. And it makes me love her even more.

This blog will hopefully grow in importance as we use it to keep our friends and family back in the UK up to date with progress on our little one. It will also be the main place we post new photos of us all and links to any videos we upload. One way to make sure you don't miss any updates is to subscribe to the RSS feed. You can also find us on Facebook, for mini updates.

And finally, we will update the banner picture for the blog soon. We've got a third face to include now!

Announcing Alexander Barton

2009-12-13T20:43:00.002-08:00

Alexander Richard Barton was born today, Sunday 13 December, at 4pm. He weighs 6 pounds 13 ounces. He is the most amazing thing ever.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

The wonders of an iPhone app

2009-12-10T13:25:00.001-08:00

The first picture belowis straight out of the iPhone. No post processing. The second has, obviously, been significantly changed. I used Cool FX from Tiffen. It's a great app- highly recommended for this and many other effects. You can layer them up as well so for this one there are four different layers including a film grain, vignette, colouring and a diffusion layer.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Two weeks and counting...

2009-12-01T22:48:00.001-08:00

It's not long to go now. We're nearly ready! Anyway, we thought it was time for another photo of Steph. But this time we threw in one of Steph and me as well. Amazing!

Steph's last day at work

2009-11-25T13:24:00.001-08:00

Well, it had to happen. Today is steph's final day in the office before she goes on maternity leave. I think the much read about 'nesting instinct' is going to kick in tomorrow. I'll keep you all posted...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Baby Shower Photos

2009-11-16T22:40:00.000-08:00

A couple of photos from the baby shower...

Baby shower - English Tea Style

2009-11-16T08:14:00.001-08:00

We had an amazing baby shower at the weekend, organised by our lovely friends in our small group. It was a 'co-ed' affair so I'm sure it was not like many are. But we wouldn't know as it was our first one ever. Thank you everyone for the thoughtful gifts. And thanks to the women's auxiliary for arranging such great English tea food and organsing some fun games. We had a fantastic time.

So, we are getting there as far as organisation goes. Less than a month to go though. I think we should really be totally ready by now. Oh well. I'm sure we'll manage.

I am hoping the baby is not early as there is now some snow up there on the North Shore and it would be great to have a few fun afternoons playing in the snow before baby boy comes along.

Colour. Pushed.

2009-11-05T09:58:00.001-08:00

Vancouver looks amazing, even when it's wet. Plus a little help from some iPhone post processing.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

U2 @ BC Place

2009-10-29T08:19:00.001-07:00

U2 rocked BC Place in Vancouver last night. It was a good night, if a little wet getting home again. They were supported by the Black Eyed Peas whose aucoustics were pretty awful. Then again, maybe it's supposed to sound like that!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Pregnant Steph - the latest!

2009-10-27T19:04:00.001-07:00

Straight from the iPhone, here's Steph's latest profile shot.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

My beard

2009-10-27T18:04:00.000-07:00

Just in case you were wandering what I looked like these days. The beard is for a costumed Settlers night. I figure old time settlers have bushy beards. Pity I only had two weeks to grow it. Still it has until the weekend to grow a little more.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

It's a beautiful looking afternoon

2009-10-27T17:12:00.001-07:00

Just thought I'd share the view with you from my window here at Bunt
HQ. Because I can.

Oh, and baby stuff is progressing well. We have a stroller/ buggy
(delete as you like) and a few other things. And he's facing the right
way as well (i.e. down) which is good news.

Racing through autumn

2009-10-20T15:52:00.001-07:00

Wow. Autumn is well and truely upon us and I haven't blogged for ages.
What's been happening? Loads! We found out yesterday we're having a
baby boy (less than two months to go) which is very exciting. As would
have been a girl of course but somehow simply knowing has got us more
excited. We know a little bit more about him.

And this is my first post from my iPhone. So forgive any wayward
spelling. This keyboard will take a little getting used to.

Comparing cars

2009-09-28T21:17:00.007-07:00

What with a baby coming and all, we're not convinced the car co-op will be able to meet our travel needs any more. We will give it a try mind you, but in case it doesn't work out, we have been investigating buying a car.

There are many great things about Canada and even the United States. The auto industry is not one of them. My first rule in deciding what to buy is I refuse to get anything that you can't buy in Europe. This narrows the choice down considerably.

We are looking for something in the 'small family car' segment, or 'compact' as it is known in North America. For the sake of this blog, I'll say we've narrowed it down to three models: Mazda3; VW Golf; Volvo S40. Now being the environmentally responsible person that I am (what am I doing considering buying a car then you ask) I am not after a huge engine. Just powerful enough to not be sluggish when fully laden with people and gear.

So, firstly, lets compare the Mazda3 - European and Canadian engine choices. (Now we're not necessarily looking at buying something brand new, but for the sake of this comparison, we'll use the current models.)

In Europe, engine choices for the Mazda3 are:

1.6
2.0
1.6 D
2.2 D (150bhp)
2.2 D (185bhp)

In Canada, engine choices are:

Don't worry, it gets better. Next up, the Golf. Firstly, Engines available in Europe:

1.4
1.4 TSI (120bhp)
1.4 TSI (160bhp)
1.6
2.0 TSI (GTI Only)
1.6 TDI (88bhp)
1.6 TDI (103bhp)
2.0 TDI (110bhp)
2.0 TDI (140bhp)
2.0 TDI (170bhp)

And now for the engines available in Canada:

2.5
2.0T (GTI Only)

Notice how I have been extra generous here as if you remove the GTI, you land up with nine engines in Europe and ONE in North America. And finally, Volvo, with the S40. In Europe, the choices are:

1.6
1.8
2.0
2.4
2.5T
1.6D
2.0D
2.4D
2.5D
1.8F (Bi-Fuel)

And in Canada...

2.4
2.5T

At this point I could point out the obvious, but I think you already got the point. My only question is: WHY????

Just to make it worse, our favoured option at the moment is the Mazda, and the hatchback, I believe, would make more sense for us. However, the hatchback is the 'sport' model and only the base spec comes with the 2.0 engine. The mid and higher spec hatchback only come with the 2.5. The base spec misses some important features which you cannot add as options.

I will finish with a quote (as far as I can remember) from a Canadian car review website that I read recently, referring to the soon-to-be-released-in-North-America, Ford Fiesta. It went something along the lines of, 'our sample fiesta had the 120bhp 1.6 engine, but I expect we'll get something larger when it arrives in North America.'

And you know what? It will be the only 'choice' as well.

Movie of the new monorail

2009-09-28T21:13:00.002-07:00

It sounds like something from the Simpsons but Vancouver has a new monorail line called the Canada Line. It connects downtown Vancouver with Richmond and the Airport. And, sad as I am, I filmed it! Not all the way from downtown, but from the last stop before the tunnel emerges into brilliant sunshine. Plus, I added one of my own songs as a backing track! Can it get any worse? Find out here.

Bunt Softball

2009-09-20T22:26:00.003-07:00

Sunday was full on this weekend. Company softball, Church BBQ and then Church. Here's a photo from those who remained at the end for softball. And don't worry, Steph didn't actually play.

On Saturday we learnt a lot about strollers (ok pushchairs) from a very helpful lady in a store in Richmond. We now have a much better idea of what we want. Don't worry, I won't bore you with the details. But there is certainly a lot to consider. One we like is the Peg Perego Switch. But any advice anyone has would be greatly appreciated.

Another pregnant Steph photo

2009-09-12T14:10:00.003-07:00

This one was taken today, 12th September.

And yes, I know the picture's fallen down off the wall!

A few more random photos

2009-09-03T22:50:00.003-07:00

This is definitely a random selection of photos for this post. We'll start with the most random!

Hmmm... not sure what to say about this one now its here. Some kind of meditation perhaps? Anyway, location is Coal Harbour, Vancouver if you're interested. There is a whole circle of these strange creatures.

This is the Astoria Bridge, spanning the Columbia River. The bridge links Washington and Oregon at the Pacific. Its an impressive piece of engineering.

And finally here is Kevin and I on the seawall at False Creek, in downtown Vancouver. Thanks for coming to visit Kevin!

Oregon Coast Movie

2009-09-01T18:51:00.002-07:00

Well, not really a movie, more a very short, not very interesting video clip. Watch it here. Enjoy!

More kite flying images

2009-08-30T11:46:00.002-07:00

We attached a camera to the kite, and...

Ok, well, not really. And actually its not very convincing because the kite wasn't filled with wind as it was blowing from the wrong direction. Oh well, maybe next time and I fool you all.

Oregon Coast Highights

2009-08-30T11:39:00.003-07:00

Here are a few highlights from the Oregon coast part of our recent trip. Portland will be following along soon.

Kevin attempts to fly a kite on Cannon Beach.

Steph and I pose in front of The Haystack.

Another Haystack shot. This is definitely Cannon Beach's landmark.

Misty misty. Kevin and Steph with the misty Pacific Coast as a backdrop.

Even in the mist, its beautiful.

Photos from Oregon

2009-08-30T11:37:00.002-07:00

I have got round to uploading some photos from our Oregon trip to Flickr. Click here to see the set. You'll need to be logged into flickr to see the 'people' shots. But I'll post them here soon as well.

Pregnancy is progressing

2009-08-24T21:44:00.003-07:00

This photo was taken today, August 26th. Compare this with the July 28th posting below. Steph's making so much progress she doesn't really fit into the sweater she was wearing before - hence the need for the maternity wear.

San Antonio

2009-08-24T12:17:00.003-07:00

Should have mentioned, that before we went to Oregon I was in San Antonio, Texas, for a few days for work. I attended one day of a transportation conference and then a two day training session on some traffic modeling software. It was HOT. Too hot to be outside most of the time actually. However, the centre of the city has some nice areas such as the River Walk and the Alamo. I posted a few photos on Flickr.

Holiday Report

2009-08-24T12:05:00.002-07:00

We just got back (yesterday) from a trip to Oregon with our friend Kevin who was over from the UK visiting us. We camped for two days on the Oregon coast near Cannon Beach, and also had two nights in Portland. Camping was great. I hadn't done it since cub scouts. It was quite foggy at times, which is normal for the time of year, but it was great being outdoors and making our own camp fires! We've decided we love Portland and want to go back again to visit. Its generally lower rise than Vancouver and has some older, brick buildings, that Vancouver is a a little scarce on. It also has MANY brew pubs and MANY live music venues. We tried out both with great results. We also happened upon an open air showing of Ghostbusters at Pioneer Square, right in the centre of town. The Saturday Market was also a highlight, where I round a great way to display photos (Plywerk).
We will post some photos soon as well. There are quite a few to sort through.

Vancouver's Critical Mass

2009-07-31T22:00:00.002-07:00

The last Friday of every month see's Vancouver's leaderless critical mass occur. Bicycles take over the downtown on a non-predetermined route, keeping motorists and the police guessing. The main aim seems to be to raise awareness of cycling and campaign for better cycling facilities. However, some cycle advocates see it as counter productive.

Cycling over the Cambie Street Bridge with vancouver and the North Shore mountains in the background.

Coming up the Georgia Street Viaduct. More colourful than normal.

The intersection of Robson and Denman Streets. Just one block from where we live.

Fetch!

2009-07-29T07:24:00.001-07:00

My friends Amy Wilson and I were experimenting with claymation and made this little movie. Its a rough cut, but we had loads of fun making it.

Spot the difference?

2009-07-28T20:54:00.002-07:00

The bottom photo is from 21st June while the top one is 26th July. Spot the difference?

Maternity Clothes Shopping

2009-07-25T16:50:00.000-07:00

Ah yes, the fun has started!

More Thetis Island Photos

2009-07-23T22:09:00.002-07:00

Tracey and Karen dance on the rocks while the sun sets behind them

It's Canada Baby!

Doug taking a picture of me taking a picture of him. Or is it the other way round?

The plane leaves us, we we don't care - we've arrived!

Thetis Island

2009-07-21T21:51:00.002-07:00

So we spent the weekend on Thetis Island, which is a fantastic place. We stayed in Mim's parent's cabin which is next to Pioneer Pacific Camp. We were able to use their kayaks on Saturday afternoon and had an amazing time paddling around islands and up rivers, before repeatedly jumping off into the water from a trampoline that was anchored off shore. Oh yes, we had fun!

This is Steph and I on the plane on the way out.

just before getting on the plane, the float plane. And we're not even floating!

Here we are in mid flight!

Sarah and Nechia get ready for take off!

Planes ready for take off on the watery runway. Now THAT's the way to travel.

Baby Scan!

2009-07-20T09:41:00.002-07:00

We had our scan this morning. Here's the result!

Weekend on Thetis Island

2009-07-19T22:16:00.001-07:00

We've just got back from a weekend away with our Small Group to Thetis Island (between the mainland and Vancouver Island. Here are a couple of group shots. More to follow...

More photos

2009-07-12T17:25:00.004-07:00

Here are a few more photos...

The above one is of Steph K, Jen, me and Lee, at he top of the Grouse Grind on my birthday, yesterday.

And here is Dave, Bec and Steph at Garry Point Park, near Steveston, Richmond BC. Great sunsets!

And finally, Steph, framed by the Burrard Bridge and a sunset!

A photo update

2009-07-12T15:19:00.005-07:00

Here are a few recent photos. I've decided to put most family and friends photos on Facebook and on this blog, and try to keep Flickr for 'arty' photos. Hope that's ok!

This one is of Dave and I have just completed (with Bec) the grueling Grouse Grind. It feels better once you've done it!

And here's another one of Mike, Lilian and Steph enjoying the Vancouver Jazz Festival.

Buy my photos!

2009-07-06T18:18:00.001-07:00

You'll notice there's a new section on the thebartons.net, half way down on the right hand side. A chance for you to buy my photos, all framed and ready to hang on your wall. Go ahead, you know you want to!

food is warming up

2009-07-06T17:42:00.003-07:00

Our fridge has not been working for a few days. We've tried turning the numbers up, and then down, but to no avail. Very annoying. The milk was not a pretty sight (or smell) to behold!