Big adventures!

Very early on Wednesday morning, Dave and I dragged ourselves out of bed and headed to the airport to see Karissa off on her big adventure.  She is going to Ecuador, as an exchange student, with the goal to learn Spanish.  She will be there for about 10 months so we are all going to really miss her sweet self.

One thing that really warmed my heart was to see everyone that showed up to see her off.  When we arrived at the airport, Richard's entire family (kids included) were there and about 10 minutes later, Kent and Liz showed up with their family.

It was a great big party at 5AM but things got a little moister when it came time for Karissa to head through security.  I tried to keep a 'stiff upper lip' but started to tear up when she headed toward me to give me a hug.  I thought back to when she was just born and I held her in my arms and to see her heading across the continent all by herself was bittersweet.  Time does fly by so quickly and it is important to try and get every moment you can with the people you love.  This is one of many steps toward adulthood and creating her own life to live.

So, until then, we will love and support her in whatever she chooses to do.  We are praying that she will be safe and have a wonderful (almost) year in a completely different culture.  What an adventure!!

Family ties

Usually a few days each summer, there is some type of family gathering at the cottage.  It isn't often that all of the nieces and nephews are there but we are happy when most are.  I always take the opportunity to take a bunch of photos for Bea & Doug's annual Christmas calendar.  Most of my subjects are cooperative with only one who hates to have his picture taken and may reluctantly be in the picture but usually refuses to smile or look friendly.  I work with what I have : - ) 

We have a draw for some 'prizes' that people donate.  Bea usually brings some family treasures to pass on to others.  The plate was made by Bea over 30 years ago and includes the names of each of her children.  Sadie went home with this little gem.



The kids actually came and got me to take a photo of the group.  They knew I wanted a group shot and everyone was there, except for Selina who had an unfortunate incident with her foot and a rusty nail...ouch!

Also also love to take photos around the beach area.  Here are a couple of my favorites from the past couple of weeks: