Back Home, and Back in the Groove

After sharing my thoughts in last night’s blog, Lorrie and Stephanie kindly return my 2004 Thunderbird from the farm, where it had been parked during my extended travels. While they were here, we made good use of the moment and dropped the Escape off at my mechanic’s — saving an early morning shuffle. That bit of efficiency was welcome, and I promptly collapsed into bed for a much-needed rest.

By morning, there were loose ends to tie up. I called the garage to clarify that fixing the Escape wasn’t urgent — no need for them to scramble before the long weekend. Then I reached out to the Church to update them on a change of plans: instead of driving to Calgary for GC45, I asked them to begin booking flights both ways. After some overnight reflection, it became clear that trying to coordinate car repairs and a cross-country drive would only turn my leisurely adventure into a race. That trip can wait. Right now, my focus is preparing to embrace my role as Commissioner.

I managed to carve out enough of the morning to recover from the previous day’s whirlwind. Though it was a day late, I posted this week’s Holy Diner across five Facebook pages and crafted the weekly Invitation to Worship publication for the Church. With those to-dos off my plate, I was finally able to relax.

Thursday afternoons always bring some joy — my regular Euchre game at the Seniors Center. I genuinely enjoy playing cards with “the Old People” — LOL. Afterward, I sat for coffee with a friend going through a rough patch. Sometimes just being a listening ear makes all the difference, and I understand how valuable that connection can be.

Yes, the day was filled with retellings of why I was home and not already en route to Calgary — but more than that, it was filled with connection, laughter, and the simple joy of shared moments.

Later, I headed to Dorchester United Church for Week Six of the Holy Diner. It was wonderful to catch up with friends, but the evening brought some heartfelt surprises, too: son John dropped by and joined me for burgers and conversation, then near closing time, Lorrie and Stephanie returned, this time to eat and chat. As the cherry on top, Bill arrived just to spend time with all of us.

And to finish off the evening? Ice cream at the Frozen Cow with friend Kathleen and the whole gang.