…and all is right with the world! The first day of spring is one thing, and the first spring day is another. The difference between them this year was more than one full month. All of the signs for our welcomed season are now in place: Murray put the boat in the water yesterday, then worked on the new 5th wheel for summer camping. I spent the day doing yard work, raking leaves, cleaning the property, and am more than a bit sore today. Perhaps the winter months of a sedentary lifestyle were too much for my aging body. If it weren’t for the fact that the TV set and the refrigerator are so far apart, I wouldn’t have gotten any exercise at all these past few months. Generally, my idea of exercise has been a good brisk sit, however I am determined to get moving, and reclaim some level of fitness that will allow me to enjoy this brief season to its fullest.
Kathryn came home from university this week, and was quite satisfied with her final exams. If you know Kathryn, you know she must have done very well, as she tends to be her own harshest critic. This year, as with last, Kathryn returned a bit more “grown”. My little girl is all but a memory, and instead a confident young woman stands before me. Kathryn has replaced unrealistic expectations for herself with a humble but reasonable confidence in her own ability.
Jillian received two great pieces of news this week. First, Jillian will be awarded the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal for Education at a ceremony in the near future. To be nominated, you must have top grades in your school and demonstrate qualities of leadership and service in your school and community. It is open to all Grade 11 High School students and 1st year vocational school program in Nova Scotia. We are very proud that Jillian was chosen among her peers for this prestigious honor. Kathryn was also a recipient in her Grade 11 year, and has modeled great “big sister” values. Secondly, Jillian has been awarded a full scholarship to study French at Laval University this summer. Again, coincidentally, or perhaps not, Kathryn also received this award when she was 17. We will me making a vacation out of the trips to Quebec, wringing the most enjoyment out of our new 5th wheel as possible.