Harmonies & Heroes

Fortunately, the week ended much better than it started. Despite the Jian Ghomeshi nightmare that has been unfolding this week, and the subject of my last post, I finished off this week with two of my favourite Canadians.

When I first heard Reid Jamieson singing on CBC's Vinyl Cafe, I was struck by how beautiful his voice was. Fast forward several years, a twitter exchange, a Vinyl Cafe appearance in the Forest City and his first concert here last year. This year, while on "tour-cation" with his lovely wife Carolyn, they made it a priority to come back to London and the East Village Cafe.

Seeing this duo on stage is nothing short of magical. Their voices blend together in perfect harmony - reminiscent of Simon & Garfunkel. Their playful banter and stories about the roots of the songs they write, displays the love they have for each other and their craft.

They just finished their first record together - both song writing, both singing. Check it out here. I particularly like Drive.

On Friday night, I had the privilege of getting my book signed by Chris Hadfield. I was excited to learn he would make an appearance at the local Chapters and marked it on the calendar.

After following his adventure on the ISS via Twitter, I was quite taken by this incredible Canadian who, despite his accomplishments, took the time to explain space exploration and discoveries to the average Canadian. He had many Q&A sessions with students and produced short Youtube videos that explained simple things like brushing your teeth or getting a hair cut in space.


After reading his book An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth this summer, I was even more impressed with this hometown hero. Yep, I'd consider Sarnia close enough to use that term! In fact, when I told my Grammie about the book signing, she casually mentioned that she saw him several years ago at Tim Horton's in Corunna having coffee with his mom. (their family has a cottage on Stag Island)

So, armed with my brand new book You Are Here: Around the World in 92 Minutes, I lined up with hundreds of others at the local Chapters to have my 10 second conversation with the first Canadian to command the International Space Station. I told him what an inspiration he is to all Canadians and how he had made Sarnia proud. I then received a firm handshake, smile and "thank you very much" and was on my way!