We hosted a gathering at our lake property that had promised to be somewhat of a reunion.  It seems that our Lord had other plans.

My uncle had a stroke about a month before my mom died. Last summer we hosted a reunion at camp with my mom as the guest of honour. This year the guest of honour was to be my uncle.

It might have been the hot weather, or the hilly windy roads or the excitement, but what ever it was, on the way to the outing, my uncle became ill and was returned home.

As disappointing as this was, we still had a very memorable day.

Clearly the little one enjoyed the water.

Haunting Reminder

A family of loons inhabits our bay.  Daily, baby and parents swim around the bay, their haunting cries breaking the evening calm with a reminder the day's end is near.

The Price of Progress

The price of progress is in focus as Melina Laboucan - Massimo, a member of the Lubicon Cree First Nation, speaks of the changes imposed on her First Nations family due to oil company exploration and development. Well worth the 10 minutes.

Sun Over Water

A week ago we hosted a group of acquaintances at our lake front property.  While some members of this party had previously visited the property, some were visiting for the first time.
Busy with duties of entertaining and meal preparation, the time flew by for me.
Hurriedly running from one task to the next, making sure our guests were comfortable and general over-seeing of the proceedings occupied my time, while our guests shared stories and exchanged philosophies.
As the sun cast its last rays over the rippling waters, one of the guests paused to remark on the beauty of the moment. Her comment caused me to stop and reflect on the wonders of the moment.
God creates miracles everyday, I am grateful for the eyes of my friend who turned my attention to this gift.

Someday

Recently, one of my daughters suggested that I read the book, "Some Day This Pain will Be Useful to You" by Peter Cameron.
A modern coming of age story, told by a teenager with a wry sense of humour, this book captured my imagination and held my interest from page one.
If you are looking for a quick summer read, consider Peter Cameron's offering...you will not be disappointed.

Time Out

Three years ago I invited a friend and colleague to spend some time away from the stresses of family, work and living.
At long last, tonight, we left work, stopped for groceries and spent an evening enjoying the lake, taking in the sunset, sharing stories and having a couple laughs.
These moments are too few and too fleeting.  When we parted we spoke of plans to do it all again, one day...soon.

Legacy

There is a Jewish tradition of leaving a legacy document.

This 'ethical will' does not deal in financial or property matters, but rather it is the gift of wisdom and good wishes. It tells others what we stand for and what we think is important.  It can also offer guidance to the recipient.

Once the ethical will is written, it can often also shape the life of the writer, because it helps to clarify values and morals.

What would you write in your ethical will?  What are your words of wisdom to share with the next generation?