2016 Season's Greetings!

     2016 is whizzing to its end so it's time I take a moment to reflect on the past twelve months.

     I continue to be very content working at the public library. We are a creative and enthusiastic bunch. Currently our children's floor is decorated like Dr. Seuss's "Whoville". A little girl walked in the other day, wide-eyed, and exclaimed, "I want to get married here!"

     Pierre also puts his creativity to work on the job problem-solving and team-building. He regularly publishes an internal newsletter. At this time of year, he channels Weird Al Yankovic to parody a traditional Christmas carol. This year "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas" has become "It's a drag we have to make feed at Christmas."

Alida visits us while we camp at MacGregor Pt

Pam, Will, & Toki on campus

     William continues to study Forestry at Fleming. He has a particular interest in tree pathology and can't wait to put his skills and knowledge to work after graduation this coming spring.

     Early in the year, Alida was hired at Pinery Provincial Park on the shore of Lake Huron. This has been lovely for Pierre, Fitzy and me, having her only an hour drive away. Most days off, Alida spent in Stratford. And Pierre, Fitz and I visited the park a number of times, paddling and hiking. 

Pam, Pierre & Fitzy's September canoe-in camping trip, Frontenac PP

Our Not-So-Big Backyard

     At home, I direct my enthusiasm and energy into my garden. This fall, I lifted the last of the sod in the backyard. No more mowing! Pierre did a marvelous job building pathways and a patio. My ultimate goal is to create habitat for birds and pollinators, and food for us. The only grasses that remain in the back are native species -- little blue stem, switch grass, and Forster's reed grass (a horticultural variety of a native species). Now that the gardens are under a heap of snow, I'll direct my attention to indoor projects -- a lot of dreaming and a bit of painting, crafting and sewing.

One of my indoor projects

     We're looking forward to having the whole family together for Christmas --William and Toki will arrive home at the end of the week. And Alida's been home on and off since her contract ended at the end of October (to start up again in the new year). I always enjoy the company and extra "chefs" when my kids are home. Pierre and I are blessed to have a son and daughter who know their way around a kitchen.

     We hope the season is merry and bright for all our dear friends and family!

Lots of love,
Pam, Pierre, and Fitzy 

Sending good cheer!