Hospital Home

It's been her "home" for over three weeks, a tiny space organized with books, notepad and pen, ipod, baked goods from visitors, pictures from grandchildren and a walker. She's more than ready to go home and she's been working hard to strengthen her muscles in preparation. We, her daughters, have floated in and out, lugging necessary items for each day, feeling we're useful at least in that capacity. We never dreamed we'd have to fight for quality care and take a stand against edgy nursing staff. The learning curve has been difficult but around that bend, is the mercy of God--our mother is heading home this week and she is alive and nearly walking again. Thank you to all of the health care team who have been kind and professional--we appreciate you! My sisters and I have been keeping track of visitors, Facebook messages and special notes to my mom. The countless prayers, visits and showering of love has left us shaking our heads in amazement. Dear Friends, you have shared our burden, prayed effectively, and thus, been instrumental in her healing. God bless each of you.

Celebrating Canada

It began with a barbeque and ended with the most spectacular fireworks. After singing and eating with some of our church family, we raced to our favourite spot by the lake to watch colours burst into the night sky, accompanied by a live orchestra. A perfect ending to a celebration of the freedom and beauty of this great land of Canada.

Happy Canada Day! May God keep it glorious and free as we pray for our country and elect wise leadership!

Bird Nerd

A self-proclaimed "Bird Nerd", I'm learning so much about these tiny creatures of the fifth day. I've always photographed them as a thing of beauty, but now my children and I have decorated our sycamore tree as a haven for all sorts of them and are learning their songs and features. What a pleasure and a talent to listen beyond the hustle and bustle, beyond the noise of vehicles passing, beyond the boom and hiss of nearby construction and notice the lovely melody of a common sparrow or the squaky call of a bluejay. A whole other important community is taking place in the treetops and I want my children to stop and recognize that if they tune their ears to these sometimes hidden sounds, it's just like being still and listening for God's voice. He calls to them in a still, small one and they have an opportunity to respond to that whisper.

The Test

Another year's-end performance. Emma and Lisa bless our church with their fabulous leadership and love for our children. Here, they are performing a musical called, "The Test", written by Lisa.We miss you already, Lisa! May you enjoy your new adventure wherever the Lord leads you. xo