Off Topic For Just a Moment

I want to take a wee break from the thread I have been working on.... places that I have lived.

My brother Mike and my sister-in-law Debbie, and my Mother are coming for a visit this week. This is the first time they have visited us here in Elliot Lake since we moved back to Ontario. And it is the first time in a long time Mike and Debbie have come to my home for a visit. I am so pleased to have them come.
This is a much different place than what they are used to, being from the city (Toronto). But I am hopeful they will see and understand what it is that has brought us here. When we decided to retire to Ontario we chose Elliot Lake from an economical standpoint. We could easily afford to buy a house and live modestly without having to find work. We wanted to experience freedom at a young age that we would be able to enjoy the years ahead. And the beauty of our surroundings was a bonus. We are living in cottage country!!!!
When I "came home" it was my wish that I would have many years left with my parents to be able to enjoy precious time with them. I was looking forward to going to visit with them often and having them come up here often to see where we live. But it was not to be as we found out very soon after arriving my Father had terminal cancer and would not be with us much longer. My dream to have him come to visit us would not happen and sadly he passed away just six months (almost to the day) later.
We were all anticipating spending our first Christmas together in years but Dad did not make it to Christmas.
It is bittersweet that my Mom is coming here with Mike and Deb and I am grateful to still have her in my life and be able to share the newest chapter in our lives.

Welcome to Elliot Lake...... I hope you enjoy your stay!