...I was actually only away for eight days, but have been playing catch-up since I got back on November 11 in the midst of Remembrance Day here in Canada. That was apt, given I was attending the memorial service for my dear sister-in-law, Judith Dunlop, in Penticton. These events always remind me of the drawing together of family and friends and how vitally important that is when one is saying the final goodbye. I was glad to see a favourite painting of mine called Community Ties for that very reason.
Retreiving John from his respite at Swan Valley Lodge and settling us back into our routine seems to have been more of a challenge this time, as his condition has declined more deeply than before. There's been little time for studio play, but I did manage to get a messy start on Christmas cards. I do know, however, that my late start and the pending-yet-again/still-postal-strike means not only the overseas cards will be late, but the in-country ones will likely be as well.
As I settled back into our routine here in town, I restored my soul with daily walks through town and enjoyed the last beauty of autumn.
I'll be looking forward to catching up on your posts over the next while. In the meantime, I'm sending a gentle reminder to cherish those you love while they are here.
Aaaah, my dear Win, everything you say sounds so painful to me. It's precisely because we love someone that we suffer so much when they leave us. As you so rightly say, let's love as much as we can before it's too late. I am sorry that John's condition has deteriorated further. It takes so much courage, both for you and for him. I send you my warmest thoughts.
ReplyDeleteI also laughed when I saw Milo wearing the chef's hat.
And your autumn photos are beautiful.
Take care of yourselves, and don't worry about the Christmas cards. If they arrive later, they'll just prolong the festivities.
Sending you big kisses and a comforting hug.
While it's been a difficult month, the connection with family has been a gift (we're spread thinly over two provinces in western Canada, and it's rare to be all together).
DeleteAnd I so appreciate your caring note; family is not only by birth, but also by choice, and I'm glad we've chosen each other!
Keeping fingers crossed for completion of the Christmas cards and the absence of a strike - expecting the best, no matter how long the festivities last. ;-) Many hugs back to you, in appreciation for who you are. xo
Oh! Win I'm so pleased you're back, missed you so much. Sorry to hear about Judith. Pleased you liked my journal pages, I want to get back to them but trying to get the C. cards finished. My friends like to make the cards, there's quite a lot of work getting everything ready so they can go home with something finished (they are not crafters!) but it was a great day and it's lovely to keep in touch. I love your 'Community Ties' it's so meaningful. Loving your C. cards too. Careful what you say if Milo hears that he might start getting worried that you will turn him into a hat! Love the clock too, interestingly I've just bought a mould of a very similar style to make resin clocks just need some warm weather to warm the resin up a bit as it's gone quite chilly here today and some snow which is very unusual for November. All my love Angela xXx
ReplyDeleteIt's good to be back, and settling into a routine again.
DeleteI had to smile at your Milo comment - I'm sure that eagle side-eye he had on me while I visited there was all about his hat concern. 🤣
I'll look forward to seeing the result on your resin clock - your resin pieces are always outstanding!!
Win I love your community ties, such beautiful symbolism. Your cards remind me I had better get off my keister too. Milo is a beauty and really does make a perfect coonskin cap. I had to giggle too. Autumn is fading fast down here. I just want to go out and wrap my arms around it and hold on. But alas I shall have to find something I like about winter. It looks pretty but then you have to go out in it, and shovel. Bah Humbug!
ReplyDeleteBest wishes and hugs from here. It's great to have you back.
Oh, your bah, humbug around snow made me laugh. That's my sentiments exactly, and as much as I enjoy the first beautiful snowfall, I'm immediately wishing winter over and done with. 🤣
DeleteAnd I'm so happy to be back, Deann, and return your best wishes and hugs tenfold. xo
Win, you are ahead of me on Christmas cards. Amazing you! Fall colours, yes they have been spectacular.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the kudos on the cards; keeping fingers crossed that I can get them done before too long! Meanwhile, we can both enjoy the glorious fall we've been having!!
DeleteA great reminder, Win. Life is brief and we need to squeeze all we can out of it. We have a habit in our house of always seeing each other off at the door with hugs when one of us goes out. Even if it's only a short walk to the shops. Who knows what might happen?
ReplyDeleteAs I'm sure I've mentioned before, I've given up on Christmas cards. Can't get myself organised with all the extra days in the bookshop and extra services at church, so I admire your industry, even with a looming/ongoing postal strike :)
The hugs at the door is a wonderful habit, Tracy; we just have no idea what the next moment holds, and showing love and affection at all times is a boon.
DeleteThis may be the year I give up cards...it's challenging to get the time in on them, and I always have the looming postal strike as a (mostly) valid excuse. 😉