Travel tales: Making the most of my Maritime moments

     

     It's been said the only story God can't use is the one that isn't told. With that thought in mind, I am grateful I felt led to write mine — "Seeds of Love." 

     

     As I reviewed my life, I was awed at the many, unexpected ways the Lord provided for and directed me. Seeds of love that were planted early in my life, have enabled me to scatter seeds of love throughout my journey. 

     Perhaps, the life and times of a young girl will somehow be an inspiration to others: born in the 30s in the maritimes; on the outskirts of a quiet country village; one, who lived in a simpler day; taught in rural settings; lived through the effects of the Second World War; and, as a young bride, left family and friends to forge a new life in the West. 

     I've learned God can do amazing things with what we often term "insignificant."  

     

     I recently donated copies of my autobiography to the New Brunswick Public Libraries Foundation, and they have been directed, as per my request to the Fredericton, Moncton, Salisbury and Sussex libraries. 

     After viewing a pdf sampling of my book, they eagerly accepted this piece of recorded history, and also suggested the Provincial Archives would be pleased to own one as well. A copy has since been forwarded to them. 

     

     I am pleased that my life story will be added to the fabric of maritime history. Imagine then, my anticipation and eagerness to visit each of these libraries where my book has been placed. 

     Each library had been advised of the day I planned to drop by, and were asked to have my book available for signing. 

     So, the last stop on our day's tour of Fredericton brought us to the city library. Easily recognizing me as the author of the book now on display, I was warmly greeted with enthusiasm by the library staff at each city. 

     

     These young folk seemed anxious to connect with this white-haired "grandma" author. 

     One young man told me he had duties throughout the day that took him away from the main desk, and he feared he would miss meeting me. I was so impressed with all their kindnesses and interest.

     Though only a short visit at each library, the camaraderie and fun conversations along with the warm hugs, just might help them understand why the author entitled her book, "Seeds of Love."

     

     Though our maritime travels were coming to an end, we still had two wonderful days before us, anxious to spend it with more family in Hampton, Quispamsis and Saint John. 

     

     

     Nephew Wayne, our next chauffeur, brought us from Sussex to their quaint, village of Hampton. Not remembering ever being here before, I found it quite delightful, with playful deer freely roaming about this peaceful town. 

     We were soon enjoying Mary's gracious hospitality, along with her tasty lunch, homemade soup and all. The plan for the afternoon was for us girls and Wayne to visit his mom, my sister Glenna, at the Turnbull Nursing Home in Saint John city. 
     

     We later learned that Mary, who chose to not accompany us, was preparing a delicious turkey dinner with all the trimmings, which we later enjoyed. My large family that I once had — five sisters and a brother, has slowly diminished with the passing of time. 

     

     Now, I must be grateful for my two remaining sisters, Merle, living nearby in Kelowna, B.C. and Glenna, all of 97 years living with the debilitating disease, Alzheimer's. 

     It is difficult to know just how much she truly grasped, as in her own way, she warmly greeted Karen and Debi.

     Recalling stories and incidents of the early years seemed to put a smile upon her face. 

     

     

     The following day, beginning with breakfast at Cora's Restaurant, we took a tour of Saint John. 

         

     A walk through the park at King's Square, and on to the sights and smells of the huge, city market, purchasing maple products to bring back home with us. 

     

     Checking out some of the shops, a glimpse once more of the Saint John High School where I spent two summers taking courses, and another visit with Glenna at the care home. 

     














     

     Seeing all of us, her eyes lit up and she seemed excited to greet us. Glenna became quite engaged, as the girls and I began harmonizing old hymns and songs, she began mouthing some words she remembered. 

     How difficult it is, when we have to say good-bye to those we love. 

     

     A very full day came to an end with a delicious dinner at Stephanie and Andrew's home. We were all so relaxed.

     Also, meeting Shelley and Dan, and finding that family bond with these second cousins — meeting for the first time — created even more special memories. 

     
     

     There was another serendipitous moment at the Saint John Airport the following morning, as we prepared to board our flight. 
     
     Because of difficult circumstances, our hopes of seeing Larry and Nancy (my nephew and wife), looked as though it was not to be. 

     What a surprise, then, to have them appear in time for lots of hugs and noisy chatter. Soon, the airplane was carrying us across our vast Canada once more, but now, to our own "nest in the west" — our hearts filled with gratitude and over-flowing with precious memories of a "once-in-a-lifetime" adventure.  

     Ernest Hemingway once said, "Never go on trips with anyone you do not love." 

     

     I'm so glad I chose three special people in my life that I dearly love  — Mark, Debi, and Karen. Even after all those days of "togetherness"  — we are still the best of friends.    
So ends our maritime saga.

 — beulah