Homebodies - This year's biggest adventure
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- Published on Sunday, January 1, 2017
Rita Friesen
The Neepawa Banner
As a year draws to a close, it is my custom to pause and review the 365 days of adventure and the people that have encouraged and impacted my journey.
One of the biggest adventures was relocating. How fortunate I am to be a part of a small, caring community. Assisting in this adventure, lead role goes to Troy. I appreciated his patience and understanding as he dealt with a first time home buyer (Ed and I decided on the farm at Riding Mountain and Ed plain bought the home on the acreage and informed me of the deed!). Warren never batted an eye when I asked that all the flooring in my new home, approximately 1,400 square feet, be in place in three days. The hottest days of summer. And it was. Needed a toilet installed after the floor was down and before moving day, one morning open for that to be done. Thank you Francis. Friends and family that helped with the move. Did I mention that happened on the hottest days of the summer?
Another highlight was my time in Holland. The country. The bike and barge tour tested my mettle and etched lasting memories. My understanding of the deep scars of World War II, on the earth and on the people, I could not have learned from reading or watching movies. I will never be the same. The time away was a wondrous combination of humor and horror. Working windmills, museums, enjoying a drink on deck while anchored in Delft, art and music. All components that make my vacation a true time away. Thank you Marie.
Completed my course as a Level One Spiritual Care Provider and received my certificate of registration to solemnize marriages. Not certain exactly what I will do with these newest credentials, but I am ready. There are moments when I regret not having more formal education. They are brief moments, for my life is full and I am thankful. My instructors for the spiritual care course wondered if I should take all my certificates, create new ones for my vast life experience, and collage a wall as my university diploma. I got what they were trying to tell me…
Quick trip to Salve Lake, Alberta, to renew friendships with the great grands. They are one, four and five, (give or take a year!) and I don’t want them to not know me. Was introduced to Paw Patrol, I heard Papa Troll and wondered if I was to be Mama Troll. I am tight with the grands and they will remember me!
Conversation that most resonated: visiting a long time friend who has earned the right to ask probing questions – he is 92 and caring for his 95-year-old wife. He asked how I was doing with new personal relationships. I said I had been told that I was out spoken and opinionated. Without batting an eye, he replied – somebody had to tell you that?
Regrets, I’ve had a few, but then again too few to mention! Happy New Year to all.
