Loving Life

So here it is, August already.  What a wonderful summer this has been so far.  We enjoyed a successful trip to Ontario in June for my mom's 80th birthday with Paul, Billy, Melody, Brooke and Brandon.  By the time we fly in and fly out, we really only have 5 days to try our very best to see who we can.  It's always a challenge to try and squeeze into peoples busy schedules.  My goal is always to visit mom and dad of course and they are always accommodating.  It's not quite as easy to catch up with the kids and grandchildren as understandably their lives are busier but I always cherish anytime they have for us.

Mom and dad are still waiting for their two bedroom suite to be completed at Leisure Living and in the meantime, Mom remains at Pat and Dave's.  I learned so much during this visit, one thing in particular is the crazy high cost of living in a retirement home.  My dad worked hard his entire life to support his wife and children and now all of us want the best for both him and mom, as I'm sure any children would.  I am happy for them that through the sale of their home, they will have security to stay together and live in the comfort they so deserve.  I think the hardest part for my parents right now, is going through all their possessions and deciding what to do with everything.  So many treasures collected over the years and having lived through tough times they appreciate every little thing so much.  In the end though, material things are just that, things.  I think I will try to keep my house uncluttered as much as possible so if the day should ever come, my kids won't have too much trouble helping me move on into my next phase of life.

Now as for the rest of June and July.  Billy, Melody and George enjoyed a week at bible camp.  George and I had a great trip to Newfoundland, for me it was the last province I had yet to visit so that is now checked off my bucket list.  I couldn't have had a better travelling partner for this trip as I got to meet and visit with the locals and hear all kinds of stories.  Newfoundland is a beautiful province and the people are fantastic, so friendly and helpful. We actually traveled the  entire coast from Port aux Basque to the tip of the North Peninsula to St. Anthony's during our week visit.

This is the lighthouse at Lobster Head Cove.
Upon returning home from Newfoundland, I was blessed with a visit from Christy and Taylor Patterson.  It was so great to be able to spend a few days with them laughing and travelling around.

While I was away Brittany, Brody, Scarlett and Brittany's mom Gillian were in New Brunswick doing some sightseeing.  They picked up Kristie and moved her back to Ontario where she is making another start there.  I wish Kristie the best of luck, lots of happiness and success in whatever path life takes her on.

So now for August.  My lifelong friend Pat Pettitt and her daughter Andrea will be arriving around the 10th.  This will be their first trip down and I can't wait to show them around our beautiful Charlotte County.  More friends, Debra and Randy are coming around the 19th to camp at New River Beach so lots more time for quality visiting.

September brings yet another and my final trip back to Ontario this year.  I am returning only to pick up a few things from mom and dad's house that they want me to have and then quickly drive back home to take Britni on her vacation.

As you can see, life is busy but mostly with doing amazing things with amazing people.  I feel blessed in so many ways for all the wonderful family and friends I have!!!