Learning to Fly (Drones) and Creating Videos

My friend Barry earned his Basic, Advanced and Flight Reviewer ratings from Transport Canada over the past couple years. He is available for drone photography and videography commissions, drone lessons, and Advanced Level Flight Reviews. He is currently teaching me to fly his DJI Mini 3 Pro and DJI Neo2 drones. He has loaned meContinue reading “Learning to Fly (Drones) and Creating Videos”

Ottawa 2026 – Day 3

Rain forced us to swap our long Gatineau Park ride for a shorter cycling tour of Ottawa, showcasing impressive bike infrastructure, protected intersections, the Chief William Commanda Bridge, and the Trillium Pathway. The day ended with Question Period on Parliament Hill, a meeting with MP Sonia Sidhu, and a birthday dinner in ByWard Market.

Europe 2026 – Day 1 & 2 – Toronto to Amsterdam

We arrived at the airport together, checked bags quickly, and watched a brief sunset before boarding. On the flight, I monitored ventilation, slept unusually well, and woke to a disappointing breakfast. In Amsterdam, efficient transit, bicycles everywhere, a welcoming hotel, and a peaceful walk set the tone for our trip with plans for a museum tomorrow.

Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Days 11, 12 & Cost

A leisurely 31 km ride led us through Montreal’s calm streets to Jean Talon Market, lush linear parks, and iconic Fairmount Bagel. We explored repurposed streets, colourful murals, bustling pedestrian zones, and waterfront views before tackling the steep climb back to the Oratory. A full day of food, art, green spaces, and discovery.

Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 10

Lisa and Cindy cycle a relaxed loop through Montreal’s canals while their friends rest. They navigate a flat tire, enjoy scenic multi-use paths with autumn foliage, and stop for lunch at a café. Later they ride through LaSalle and Verdun’s bike-friendly streets, and climb up to the basilica — only to get locked inside unexpectedly.

Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 9

We enjoyed the best hotel breakfast yet at the whimsical Days Inn Berthierville before setting out on a cool, sunny ride along the St. Lawrence. Smooth roads, fall colours, and a light tailwind made for effortless cycling—until another flat delayed us an hour. Crossing into Montreal, excellent bike paths led us to Saint Joseph’s Oratory, completing our 520 km journey.

Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 8

Breakfast was included with our hotel last night. We met at 7:30 in the dining area. We were ready to go just before 9. Our hotel was at the intersection of a highway and a busy road. My planned route took us over the highway twice so I looked at the map more closely, andContinue reading “Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 8”

Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 7

We rode nearly 90 km from Sherbrooke to Drummondville with one long climb, red maple rows, and a mix of rain and overcast skies. A flat tire and endless red lights slowed us down, but we arrived just in time for dinner—poutine, of course, in the city where the famous dish was born.

Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 6 – Sherbrooke

last day on the Véloroute Gourmande began with a hearty breakfast at Eggsquis, thanks to a friend’s recommendation. The ride to Sherbrooke brought climbs, scenic trails, and a lunch stop in picturesque North Hatley. We finished the route by exploring Bishop’s University, riverside paths, and Sherbrooke’s vibrant street art before resting for tomorrow’s ride to Drummondville.

Montreal and Véloroute Gourmande – Day 5

A latte and breakfast burrito fueled our 66 km ride to Magog—the hilliest day yet with over 600 m of climbing. We enjoyed Quebec’s stellar cycling infrastructure, autumn colours, and plenty of public art along the way. A wrong turn added adventure, and we finished the day with friends and dinner on a patio.