Just a thanks to Colin and Andrea for hosting my visit to their secret lair on Vancouver Island. In a single day, I was filled with good food, great conversation, and a renewed sense that Canada is what the U.S. would look like if it was occupied by adults.

After leaving by float plane (a recommended experience -- the view of Victoria and Vancouver is unparalleled, and the controlled crash they laughingly call a "landing" is exciting as hell)

-- I got a chance to see Alaska's inside passage, where the following became obvious:

1) Glaciers really are disappearing thanks to climate change. From a helicopter, you can often see miles and miles of glacial valleys formerly occupied by receding ice.
2) Many Alaskan tourist stops are really, really proud of how many whores they used to have. I'm not kidding. It's a central part of the experience. Want whores? We got 'em. Or, we did, anyway, a hundred years ago.
3) Colin knows coffee. He recommended a local Alaskan brand called "Ravens Brew," If you ever get the chance, put some in your mouth and sit a while.

My thanks to Colin and Andrea!