an idiosyncratic web site

In this 21st century, a person seems almost incomplete without a personal Web site, so here is mine ...

As a consequence of the ongoing popularity of the OneBag.com project, my life of late is increasingly that of a travel speaker. If you’re a meeting planner or otherwise searching for a topical, entertaining, and singularly useful presentation for your group/event, have a look at my oratory.com site; I’d be more than pleased to discuss your needs with you.

But I did promise idiosyncrasy, so this site also contains a bit of information on the Dyment surname (because a lot of folks come here looking for Dyments), an overview of my professional credentials (including contact information), some personal ramblings, and several miscellaneous pleasures. I am also the author (and "Carry-On Maven", says The Wall Street Journal) of the abovementioned OneBag.com, a celebrated Web site teaching the art of travelling light; wander over there if the topic interests you.

about the “dyment” surname

The Dyment surname (pronounced dye-ment) is British, one of several alternate spellings of Dayman, itself a corruption of dairyman. In 1833, two brothers, John and Humphrey, came to Canada by small sailing vessel from their Devonshire homes (in the village of Bradworthy), settling in Dundas (Ontario) and Prince Edward Island, respectively. I’m a descendant of John, and, as is common among first-born sons in this family branch, carry his name (my full name is John Douglas Dyment). True to the heritage suggested by our surname, many of my relatives are still in the dairy farming business in southern Ontario.

a bit about me

No dairying for me, though ... I spent a fair bit of time on farms as a boy, but have mostly made my living in various high technology pursuits; you’ll find more detail on the “About: Professional” page. At various times, I’ve lived in Hamilton, Burlington, Niagara Falls, Ottawa, Carleton Place, & Waterloo (Ontario); West Vancouver (British Columbia); Cambridge (U.K.); and New York City. A dual Canadian/U.S. citizen, I currently live in the Potrero Hill district of San Francisco, along with my wife Lynne and a continuing procession of visitors.