Riding Horses

Riding horses is like nothing else. It lets you get close to nature. It lets you quietly see things that you're normally going too fast to enjoy. You smell scents that normally don't make it past your car window. You hear the small animals building their nests in the forest.

It's a delight to be that close to things that are so common, but hardly ever heard.

For years I was lucky enough to board my horse at a stable that was located along the shorthills. The shorthills are off Effingham Rd in Pelham. The shorthills have their very own magic.

Today I rode with my niece Erin. It was so special to share our love of horses. I really enjoyed the ride around the big hay field as we talked about horses, riding and deer.

It's always nice to ride with another person and extra special to ride with the next generation. It's a sign that I'm aging, but it isn't one that I mind. Thanks Erin, today was really cool. Want to do it again on Boxing Day??

Happy Amy Birthday

I was born on December 25 at eight in the morning. There is no doubt about the fact that I am a Christmas baby.

Everyone always asks me if I hate having my birthday on Christmas. How could I? How could I hate my birthday? A day where everyone celebrates. A day were few go to work, everyone wants to eat, drink and be merry. It's not just another passing day.

I remember as a kid being sad that a few people had forgotten my birthday one year. I was about six years old and just plain sad. My mother saw my grief and told me to get in the car.

As we drove around town she told me to look at all the Christmas lights and really see the very beauty of the holiday decorations. I grew sadder as the lights dances in my eyes and the tears welled up and rolled down my cheeks.

My mother laughed and said the following four words: "these are for you."

I was confused. I was six. What?

She continued... Honey, these are Amy Birthday lights, trees and decorations. The whole world celebrates your birthday, so don't be sad. Be happy. It is a special day and you are a special girl.

Who could argue with that logic? Plus, she is my mom and mom's aren't allowed to lie to their children. Especially their special children born on Christmas day.

Since that moment I smile when I see the lights and decorations. I think of that wonderful moment in the car with my mom and love Christmas even more.

My new husband corrects everyone about the holidays. You aren't just celebrating Christmas you're celebrating Amy Birthday.

My first christmas ornament this year came from my work partner Dave's kids. They gave me an ornament as a wedding presents. It's one of my favorite gifts partly because it's christmas, but mostly because someone put a piece of tape over the Christmas part on the box and replaced it with Amy Birthday. The box then read: Amy Birthday Ornament.

It's a new trend.

Happy Amy Birthday Everyone!

Christmas Decorating

I started decorating for Christmas today. My sister says it looks like "Santa puked in my house" because of all the sparkles. I like it.

For years I'd buy a new decoration at Ball's Falls Festival. I had a criteria: it had to be bigger than a ornament and it had to be lit from the inside. I put these decorations on my mantle over my fireplace and I am so grateful to have a fireplace to decorate. I add lights and garland and a Merry Christmas sign spelled out in red, green and white.

I remember each decoration. I remember the smell of fall and if it was raining, sunny or snowing. I remember wearing fall sweaters with fun scarves that would be too hot if the sun was shining. I remember the joy in finding the right one and sorrow at departing with my money to buy it.

It's been about three years since I've been to the festival in Vineland. I've got all the excuses: work, life, farm, animals and a new husband. I'm going next year and I'm going to find a christmas decoration that glows from the inside. It brings me joy at least once a year.

I have the same memories as I pulled out childhood ornaments to put on the tree. I found one ball with the date 1988 when I first started saving. I recognize the ones my siblings and I made as children. I hang them with joy.

I came across sparkle balls I bought at The Bay on sale one year when I moved into my first home. I had a purple and silver theme that year wanting a perfect tree, but I couldn't help myself and had to hang the ball with 1988. It is magic. It's what makes this old farm house glow with Santa puke.

I can hardly wait for company. I can hardly wait until the house is full of friends and family. I like company. I like the old farm house to be happy.

M2U00026.MPG

Goats Divorce!

Nelly has found a new love and no longer wants her best goat pal Willow to share in the passionate relationship. Strife on the farm!

Nelly is a pushy goat. She grew up with horses and spent all eight years living with horses, until the sad fateful day that her best equine pal passed away. That's how Nelly came to live on Beaver Creek Farm.

Nelly's owner was grief stricken when she pulled into the farm driveway and asked if we'd like another goat. She'd seen me playing with Willow and wondered if we'd be willing to take her goat as she had no place to keep her since the death of her horse.

Of course we'd love another goat! Who wouldn't? Nelly was brought to live at the farm the same day. We put her in with the pigs and Willow and you could see she wasn't happy. She fought with the pigs and was a bully to Willow. We gave it some time and finally all settled down to the occasional scuffle.

Once we discovered Autumn was coming home we started on a huge fencing project. Once complete we moved the two goats into the large, lush field to enjoy the foliage. It took several days for the goats to get comfortable, but they finally were enjoying their new digs.

Autumn came and there was a subtle shift to the dynamics. I thought a balance was finally achieved, but I was wrong.

When Autumn was released into the field Nelly ran over bleating with joy. A horse! Oh a horse for Nelly! Autumn was a little confused, but tolerated the white goat's attentions. Nelly nuzzled Autumn's lowered nosed and gave her a little head butt. Autumn responded by pushing Nelly around and giving gentle nuzzles back. Willow was left out of the new relationship.

In typical farm fashion we decided to give it a few days. As the girls settled in we noticed Nelly was becoming aggressive with Willow. I was in the field two days ago and saw Nelly beating the crap out of poor gentle Willow.

Poor Willow did not fight back. She still tried to cuddle next to Nelly, but Nelly had a new love and wasn't willing to share.

We moved Willow back to live with the pigs and balance was restored to the farm.

Nelly goes for a visit, but I don't think Willow will be living in the big field anymore. Willow seems quite happy to be with her pig friends and curls up on top of them in the straw as winter approaches.

The Lean to

The lean to is what crazy horse people call a horse shelter. Back in 1984 my dad built my horse Sam a lean to made out of fence posts, plywood, steel and a large chunk of reclaimed pool liner (it was waterproof). He must be given credit for creativity. What it lacked in esthetics it made up for in utilitarianism.

Rather than re-invent the wheel Brent and I decided to repair the old lean to for Autumn. Brent has this magical ability of finding incredible deals and he found an incredible deal on insulation and wood to reinforce the old lean to. It was solid and the twenty-six year old posts did not move with our wiggling. Keep in mind Brent is very strong and when he wiggles a post he really wiggles a post.

We found a way to attach the insulation to the walls and then put up OSB to cover the insulation. We did three walls and the ceiling. We also used roof insulation to shore up the roof along with several gallons of tar. It looks good. I hope it's waterproof.

The lean to is made up of two sections. One to store hay and one as shelter for the horse. Both needed to be cleaned out and reconstructed. This process has taken longer than we both expected. It's actually harder to shore up than build from scratch. After several days we eventually gave up on the level and square. If it looked good to the eye ball then it was good.

We used the backhoe to push and pull the building back into shape. We used too many nails and not nearly enough screws.

I was working alone the other day building a set of insulated sliding doors to go across the front of the lean to where the horse would live. By the time you added up all the weight of the material I could barely drag the panel into place. Picking it up would have been impossible. I managed to balance the panel and use a couple of small pieces of two by four to brace the panel to the building. I was jumping up with the nail gun because the ladder was out of reach.

Next I built a panel to fill the window hole in the sliding door. It was like a horrible train wreck happening as I built. Some days are not good for building and perhaps this was one of them. It didn't matter how many times I measured, the cut was still wrong. The circular saw was kicking my ass and my saw horse buckets hated me. Every time I put the panel on the buckets the whole thing would fall over. I built this panel out of OSB, rocksol insulation and two by fours, so it was incredibly heavy.

I was frustrated and about ready to give up when I stood in the rain and calmed myself. Okay. I can do this. I've built before. I gave myself a little pep talk as I picked up the drill and attacked the hinges like a woman possessed.

At least Brent wasn't around to smack me in the head with an eight foot piece of steel track. Last week as I was walking around the truck Brent pulled the track out of the truck. The next thing I hear is a loud bell and feeling the pain in my front teeth. He'd struck me in the forehead with the steel track. Not on purpose. I hope.

Days later I still have a headache.

I got the door panel built and hung. I proudly marveled at my ingenuity when I pulled the panel wide open to have it stop suddenly. How long has that strut been there anyway? About twenty-five years.

Sigh. Somedays are for doing laundry.

Autumn 2010

She's here. She's been here since last Saturday and every morning before I got to work I feed her a carrot or an apple and I bid her a good day. It's been a very warm November since Autumn came home. The sun has been bright and the air seems crisp.

I had the opportunity to ride for the first time in nearly three years. It was magic. It was amazing. It was serene and peaceful and I can't believe I waited so long.

The routine of brushing was familiar as was lifting the saddle to place it gently on her back. Adjusting the saddle pad and slowing tightening the girth. It brought a quiet contemplation to my day. I was excited, but I was excited like I was the day Brent and I got married. It was a peaceful, quiet excitement that comes with the knowledge that this is a good fit, a great match and will only enrich your life.

As I hoisted myself up into the saddle and settled in we clicked. I think we both remembered and we both relaxed to enjoy the simple pleasure of each other's company.

We walked. We ambled around the farm. We checked the fence lines, front yard and fifteen acre hay field out back. The gentle rocking of her pace and my body were matched evenly and I started to look around at the field. I had wonderful memories of riding this same field with Sam and having an amazing connection.

I remember sneaking off to ride at night. I remember galloping through the open field with the wind on my face making my eyes water. I remember smelling the damp earth, rotting leaves and crisp autumn air.

I am so lucky. I am so lucky to relive these happy memories and create new adult memories at the same time.

Everyone always said I could come back to riding later in life after I did so many other things like: finishing my education, getting a job, getting married, having a family, raising my children and triumphing in a fabulous career.

My life didn't work out that way and I'm incredibly grateful for surprises even if I didn't like some of them at the time. Time heals even if at the time you don't think you will ever feel joy again.

Horses

I long to feel the saddle beneath me again. To ride the familiar trails of my childhood. To smell the hay and straw and scent of horses on my farm again. It's like nothing else in this world.

However, I am a pragmatic woman today. I know the costs - both financially and emotionally. I refuse to make this decision on emotion. It makes no sense. The horse will provide no monetary value, but I feel I owe it to Autumn.

Divorce is ugly. It's painful and even when done reasonably amicably you lose so many precious things. One of the things I lost was Autumn. I could tell you it was cost, but maybe I wanted to punish myself for failing in my relationship. I could say I couldn't cope with the workload, but perhaps my emotions were to too frail. Maybe I wasn't strong enough at the time to hold on, make room and find a place.

It left me feeling guilty, but I'd found her a good home with a friend of a friend and for three years they cared for her, loved her and kept her safe. Thank you.

At the beginning of the summer I got a call from Autumn's family stating they'd like to give her back. She wasn't very sound anymore and she didn't suit their needs. She was getting old and the family was filled with young kids. This was right before the engagement party and three months before the wedding.

I told Brent and the wheels started spinning. I could smell the smoke. I was afraid, but didn't I owe it to Autumn?

I asked the family to wait until fall, until autumn to see if we could make something happen. It gave me time to think and time to talk to Brent, family and friends. Should we get a horse?

It was not an easy decision, but we decided yes and started planning as soon as we returned from our honeymoon we started building. We put up fence and repaired the shelter. We built well into the dark hours and had a few fights because we were tired. For something that was going to bring joy the building was stressful. I think I was nervous. I was afraid I wasn't strong enough to be soft and I knew having Autumn home would leave me open and vulnerable.

It was Thursday, November 4, 2010 when the family came by and asked if she could bring Autumn back on Saturday. Brent and I were in the middle of insulating the shelter. At least the fencing was done.

It was nearly 4pm on Saturday, November 6, 2010 that Autumn stepped off the trailer and landed her hooves on Beaver Creek Farm. I held my breath and couldn't wait to cuddle and feed her carrots. My baby had come home.

It was like the return of a long lost lover. It was the sun shining brighter bringing life to the dull leafless trees. It was like going from black and white to high definition. A switch flipped and I felt whole.

Welcome home Big Girl.

Horse Fencing - Part 2

It's still not done as of November 4, 2010.

It's been two weeks that we've steadily been working on fencing and we're so close to being done with the hand breaking wire and in the past few days we've added the challenge of mud. My feet stayed mostly wet due to the hole in my decade old rubber boots. I'm excited that I get to buy a new pair!

I must give a special thanks to the backhoe for all it's hard work. This project would not have gone as smoothly or as quickly without you, you sassy, big, yellow machine. I love you.

Secondly, to my husband Brent. Without his back breaking determination that had us working outside in the dark last night until after nine p.m. we'd never be this far, tired, broken and cold. Thanks honey.

The great news is that we should be done with all the fencing stuff today. We have the electrical set up and just need to hook it up to the unit and tighten the ribbon. What a beautiful sight with the white four inch ribbon stretched along the top rail. It's changed the look of the backyard and the view from the house. I'm excited and nervous to put livestock in this new paddock. I know they're going to love it.

We still have a to do some clean up, fix and insulate the lean to and work on getting water for winter. I wonder when Autumn is coming home?

Horse Fencing

Last spring, while working on all the projects around the farm to prepare for the engagement party a lady stopped by to talk about a horse. This horse happened to be my old horse that I'd given away during my divorce. I couldn't afford the luxury of a horse and I'd found her a good home with this family.

The lady came to tell me they weren't much interested in her any longer. She has periods of lameness that exceeds their limits. Would I care to have her back? Would I? Wow.

Having a horse is big undertaking. It's not like a goat or a pig who can pretty much take care of themselves as long as the essentials are provided. Wintering a large animals can be difficult. Water situations must be managed, hay and often grain to help the animal create heat is often necessary.

I approached Brent with the idea. He gazed thoughtfully off in to space for a while until I was getting nervous and then he said "we could do it". That simple. That sweet. He wasn't thinking of excuses not to do it, he was coming up with a plan. Who doesn't love a guy who comes up with a plan?

We went back and forth on the subject several times. He said he'd rather have a cow, but he can see why I'd like my horse back. He gets the sentimental value and he gets the real time cost and he still wants to bring my horse home.

We didn't actually decided until last week that we'd take the horse for sure and it wasn't until I called and talked to the lady that I got excited. The problem is: I want her now! What a kid.

But, first - the fencing.

We decided to use a combination of twenty rod livestock fence and electric. We started pulling out the old fencing on Friday with the help of our good friend Chuck. It took the three of us and the back hoe two hours of good hard labour to removed twenty year old rusted farm fence with a steel top rail. We all begged for tetanus shots by the end, but the fence line was cleared of wire and pipe.

We decided to leave the line of trees that have grown up along that fence line. We decided it was good food for the goats (who will be keeping Autumn company in the big field) and shelter from the wind. We've expanded this paddock by hundreds of feet and brought the fence line over to share the one with the dogs directly off the house.

We're aware there will be moments when we open the laundry room window and bid a happy good day to a horse. The thought makes me giggle.

On Monday our friends Tanya and Justin came over with their two pugs: Chewy and Twinkie, to help with fencing. We started around ten in the morning and by eleven we'd pushed twenty-seven posts and were nearly ready to pull some fence. We ran the new fence line across the front of the property just east of the house. We x-braced the posts and rolled out the fence, which is great work out for the legs, and hooked up the back hoe to the fence and started to pull. It tensioned beautifully!

We put Tanya and Justin to work wiring the fence to the steel posts (it's impossible to push cedar posts on this property - I swear it's rock only three feet down). We're going to put up a decorative wood fence in front of the steel one to make it more visually appealing from the road at a later time.

Right now, we need to get some functional fencing.

We managed to push another seventy-seven posts and pull five hundred feet of fencing thanks to the help of our friends. In return they have plans to make us clean their driveway with a toothbrush or perhaps there's a sewage problem we can fix. It's worth the trade in labour to help bring Autumn home.

Today we'll work on the electric part of the fence. It may be a time consuming process as our insulators are made for wood posts and we're working with metal. How hard can it be to drill through metal anyway?

We have a few more weeks until Autumn comes home and there's so much to do, but we're making great progress.

Why the Good are Persecuted

Have you ever noticed how others have this desire to attack the things you hold dear to your heart?

My love of animals has been the most wonderful and joyful thing in my life and it has also brought me the most pain. I felt the pain of losing them far too early in years, but I've also felt the cruel words of those who would persecute me for my joy.

I've listened to people state that hunting is for the good of the deer or trying to save the world one puppy at a time was a waste of time. People seem to gain some sort of comfort or happiness from attacking those things that others hold passion and are willing to give up time, money and portions of their lives.

Everyone knows I love the animals. All sorts of animals. I've fallen deeply and desperately in love with a sassy blond shih poo bombshell, a shy and sweet chocolate mess and a proud bright lhasa cross who has an insane love of balls.

I also spread my love to all the animals that live at the farm. The pigs, goats, ducks and especially my little chicken nugget.

I often wonder if there was some point in my life that I was so disappointed by people that I naturally and instinctively turned towards the closest and kindest soul for comfort and love. That soul happened to belong to a four legged creature named Sam.

You're thinking Sam is a dog, but in fact she's a horse. Sam was a mostly thoroughbred mare with just a hint of draft - clydesdale to be exact. She was hardy and powerful, but agile and strong. She taught me how to love with passion, but never took any crap from anyone. She used teeth, hooves, muscles, blood and passion to fight against those who would aim to harm her, but she loved fully those would be kind, caring and gentle.

You don't always need to find comfort in the arms of a human to find your place and your peace in this world. Sometimes you can find all you need in the eyes of the gentle soul that is curled around you feet, your arms or in the next room.

I don't know why the good are persecuted. Sometimes I think I get a sniff of understanding and I can hear words like: low self-esteem, uneducated, poor upbringing, ignorance, hateful, mean and controlling.

I don't understand why someone who feels badly, for whatever reason, would want to attack another heartbeat who feels even worse.

Duck Watch 2010 Part Two

Mr G has returned to live outside with his pal Smith. Both are five month old muscovy ducks, probably brothers. Smith is white and Mr G is white with a little grey on his back. Smith would be considered aggressive for the normally passive muscovy and Mr G lives up to the quiet reputation.

Just over two weeks ago Mr G was struck by a car while we were away on our honeymoon. We came home to find Mr G bloody in the barn. After ten days of in home care, including how to inject a duck (not for cooking) with antibiotics Mr G has returned to his more normal self outside.

Very subdued he limps around the pen and swims passively in the pond. I hope to hear his hiss again soon, but for now he continues to heal. We can even see the start of a few tail feathers that we never thought would grow. Recovery from this massive trauma has taken it's toll on the little duck and he's significantly smaller than the magnificent Smith who is splendid with his layering of white feathers.

Smith has been kind to Mr G since the separation. We feared Smith would beat up Mr G, but even animals can sense when one of their own is no longer a threat.

They sit together at the end of the dock and watch the swirling pond. I wonder if they daydream?

Beaver Creek Farm Animal Sanctuary

October 16, 2010 is the first day of Beaver Creek Farm Animal Sanctuary. This is exciting as I sit in my kitchen alone typing as the sun shines and the puppies nap. For those who don't know me - I am an animal lover. If you read some of the previous posts about my animals you'll see my devotion runs deep towards the little heartbeats without a voice.

I belonged to a non-profit rescue for several years and found it wasn't the right place for me and my passions. I believe in helping dogs that need help. Those abused, abandoned and generally wounded by the callousness of humans. I want to give back.

It's hard to start one of these organizations. You have to be recognized to pull dogs from bad places, but not puppy mills. What got me going on this is the mass puppy mill auction going on in Missouri on October 27, 2010. A good friend offered a donation if I was willing to foster and find one of these dogs a home. Wow. What a great leap of trust. She said if I can help one dog than it's worth all the money. What a great lady.

So, here I am making the decision to start a rescue. It has to start private and hopefully we can become incorporated once we raise enough funds. I'm hoping for all sorts of donations. Dog food, blankets, beds, bowls, toys and money. I can't do it without the monetary donations. I'd love to build a free spay and neuter clinic. I'd love to have a kennel to house the dogs when they first come in and have volunteers give flea baths and grooming. I'd love to have vet who would be willing to volunteer some time or give a discount on spay or neutering.

If you know someone or would like to help please join our listserver: beavercreekfarmanimalsanctuary@yahoogroups.com or go to this website: http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/beavercreekfarmanimalsanctuary/

Everyday starts with a step...
Thank you for making my dreams come true and helping the animals.

Billy's Wedding Speech (My Best Friend)

To My Best Friend on Her Wedding Day

Thank you Amy and Brent for asking me to be a part of your big day. Amy and I met when we were in high school. I was in grade 9 and Amy was in grade 10. I was walking up the stairs to a class on the second floor and thought I recognized the person in front of me and decided to pinch her butt.

It wasn't who I thought it was. It was Amy, and she turned around pretty much ready to knock me on my ass. But as she likes to tell it, the look of fear and embarrassment on my face stopped her. As I apologized profusely she must have felt sorry for me or something and took me under her wing. Befriended me, protected me, and raised me up a bit on the social ladder.

For the longest time I didn't know what she saw on my face that day or why she took me under her wing, until recently. Most of you know Amy and you know she loves to rescue animals. Every kind, puppies, goats, pigs, ducks or bunnies. Anything that has been abused, or is lost, and needs a place to feel safe. Well whether Amy knew it or not at the time, she rescued me that day. Knowing what we know now, I was abused, and lost, and needed to feel safe. Amy did all that. I can say without a doubt that I wouldn't be standing here today if I hadn't pinched that butt so many years ago.

So we grew up together. Lots of ups and a bunch of downs. We spent time playing improve games in the loft of the barn, remember Jenn. Spent a summer before college working in the Bindery at Sullivan Graphics. Singing show-tunes over top of the machines, (if you didn't know I was gay then...) and having a crazy shampoo, soap, and whatever else we could find, fight at her parents one morning, chasing each other around the house after a week of midnight shifts.

Life sometimes separated us for periods of time but we always came back to each other and have been with each other through all the phases, adventures, mistakes, and heartbreaks. The best way I can explain it is, I am her Will and She is my Grace. In fact when the show Will and Grace 1^st came on I remember calling Amy and the both of us saying “ Oh my God did someone steal our lives and make a TV show?”. I even once said to Amy, wouldn't it be cool if my name was Will so i could be her Will. She started laughing and looked at funny, and laughed even more when i didn't get what i just said. “You idiot” she said, “You are my Will”. Since my name is Technically Will.

And like friends do, we talked and dreamed about what our lives would be like as we grew up. We always pictured Amy living in the country on a farm with all her animals and me being an actor living in the city. I would come visit her and her husband on the farm to get away from it all. Amy and I would be in the kitchen getting dinner ready while both our men would be outside having a beer and shooting the breeze at the barbecue.

Well 3 years ago I came home and was introduced to Brent. By this time I had dropped the y from my name and was Bill. Except when I came home and my family and friends still call me Billy. Brent said “ You must be Billy, I've heard all about you” . I wasn't sure if that was good or bad but I thought nice guy lets see how this goes. That 1^st night the 3 of us went to out and as we got in the car Brent went to the back seat and said “ You're Billy you ride up front with Amy”. It was one of the smartest things he could have ever done. It scored points with both me and Amy, and every time after that, when ever we got together and the 3 of us went out I rode shot gun with Amy.

For those of you who don't really know Amy and for those of you who really do, Amy is..... How should i put this?... Amy is Complicated. And I mean that in the best possible way. Amy is a small town girl who is comfortable in the big city. She loves to go to football game one night and to a Broadway show the next. She is an English major who will read the classics of literature, poetry or a crappy romance novel all in the same week. She will speak her mind, tell you like it is and shoots from the hip. She is also love and compassion like I have never seen. She is hard and soft. She is a cowgirl, horseback riding, motorcycle driving bumpkin, and at the same time a designer handbag, $200 dollar pair of shoes, night at the opera, fly to Europe in a fabulous dress Princess.

And to be with her you have to know all this, and get it. That's what Brent does. Brent you get all the parts of her and you fit! Not only do you fit but you do it all while respecting every part of her, and you make her happy. I couldn't ask for more.

Back to the part of our dream of Amy and I in the Kitchen, while our guys BBQ. Well Amy's got that dream. The house, the farm, the animals, and I can honestly say she is alone in the kitchen because I am the one out at the BBQ with Brent with a beer shooting the breeze. And I'm not sure if Brent or Amy noticed but when I came home for the engagement party after we spent the day here building picnic tables and me learning how to use power tools, we got in the truck to head back to the farm. Before Brent even got the chance I climbed in the back seat and they rode in the front together. I'm sure it wasn't even something any of us realized, myself included. It just felt right.

Amy, I will always be your Will, and you will always be my Grace, but I am happy to know that today you have married your best friend. To Amy and Brent

Lisa's Wedding Speech

Amy rented a cottage in early September with friends up in Long Beach for the weekend and a week later she moved into the farm. I came by the farm to help and recognized all her friends except for this one tall guy.

Amy said she met him in Wainfleet, but wouldn't say more. Hmmm... I started in with the twenty questions, but for once my sister was silent.

What was going on? He was just helping? Who was this tall dark haired handsome man and why was he helping my sister??

Over the next few weeks Amy started hanging out more at the beach. She mentioned moonlit walks, romantic bon fires filled with wine. Every time she went to the beach the puppies followed... hmmm... he really did know the way to her heart was through her puppies.

Over the next few months I watched Brent and Amy working together. They pulled out carpet and painted walls at the farm. They laid tons of ceramic tile. Back at the beach they worked on Brent's building, renovated cottages and planned.

Nearly three years later they continue their journey back and forth from farm to beach. The more I see them doing things together the more I realize how good they look, how strong they are and how happy.

Wow. They worked well together and I watched them grow into a lovely couple.

My sister used to be high maintenance and now she goes with the flow. I believe my sister has met her match. She has changed so much and I can see the love she has for Brent, life, the farm, her animals, puppies and the beach.

I was going to feel sorry for this new guy dating my sister and I wondered how he was going to put up with her? Today I can thank him for being patient, kind and loving.

I can see and feel the happiness you have for each other, your families and all her extra heart beats.

I have no doubt you two belong together and deserve each other.

Everything happens for a reason...

My toast: May your love affair last forever. We wish you all the best and years of laughter and love. Please raise your glasses as the Bremners and Lindhursts welcome each other.  

Brian & Ellen's Wedding Speech

Brent and Amy’s Wedding Reception—September 18, 2010

I keep thinking of a Psalm, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”. And we are so glad that Brent and Amy are now husband and wife. It seemed a long time until they found each other. Suddenly, with the wedding scheduled, time has flown. Brent used to say it was a long interview process to find the right mate for life.

We have heard several stories about how they met. I don’t know how much truth is in them. You’ll have to ask them about that. I do know that three years ago, on September 4^th, we left for a trip to Ireland. Brent drove Brian and me to the Toronto airport. We left realizing his previous relationship was broken. We returned one month later, on October 4^th, and soon met Amy. We heard she and some of her friends had wanted to rent a cottage during the time we were gone. We heard Amy came to the cottage but her friends were unable to come with her. It seems that was the beginning. One story was that Amy, who is fiercely afraid of spiders, saw one or two spiders in her cottage. Her method of exterminating spiders was to throw shoes at them. However, being on vacation, she didn’t have a full arsenal of shoes to throw, so after throwing a few shoes and still having spiders around, she yelled for Brent to come help her.

Another story we heard was that Amy drove in, saw Brent in the barn, and told him she had a warm six pack of beer. Would he be able to swap it out for a cold six pack?

Then there was the quiet time when Amy was writing in her journal and Brent saw her and started to talk with her about her writing. Both were English majors in university and both enjoy writing. That was a good start. At least they had something in common.

However they actually started to know each other, they found a lot of commonality in their lives. As I said, both were English majors. Brent is on ski patrol and knows first aid and Amy is a paramedic, so there is another common trait. Both like to ski and snowboard. Amy is fearless in high places and Brent was happy to have extra hands with the roof on his barn. They both love the beach as do the dogs.

Apparently both Brent and Amy had said they did not want any permanent relationships at that point in their lives and yet love bloomed as time progressed. It is apparent when you are with them that they are well-suited to each other. Their words bounce back and forth. They are kind and understanding of one another’s feelings. Everything they exhibit points to a marriage made in God’s eyes and we are thrilled they have found each other. We welcome Amy into our family as her family has welcomed us. The pups, Taz, Gizmo and Poco, are now our grandpuppies and we look forward to a long life for all, filled with happiness and good health. Cheers to a wonderful and happy future together.

Duck Watch 2010

Employment obligations forced us home after nine days of honeymoon, but we were excited to be re-united with our four legged and feathered family. My human family cared for the barnyard in our absence and did a wonderful job. Thank you. Especially Dad.

There was a single injury to one of the ducks that took a few days for the story to unravel. We found Mr Grey Smith limping and bleeding in the barn. We weren't sure how he got there, but my dad explained that the ducks were flying over the fence and could be found all over the farm. Did one of the cats chase the duck? I doubted it. Was it a fox or coyote? I don't think he would have survived such an attack. Hmmm....

Mr G had big trauma to his tail area which was mutilated and full of maggots leaving him sour smelling and rotting. His left leg seemed sore, but there wasn't an open fracture. We brought Mr G into the house and it took us over an hour to clean out most of the maggots, wash the area with antibacterial soap and then spray with a gentian violet solution that turned everything purple. We also needed to figure out how to inject him with antibiotics and we debated splinting his left leg. It was surprisingly easy to inject a duck, but this was one of the few times the internet was not helpful. When I googled "how to inject a duck" many websites came up about how to cook a tasty duck. I quickly stopped searching and used my medical training and animal experience. For anyone who needs to know: Under the wing, pull the skin and inject subcutaneously.

Friday, October 1, 2010 was the first night of treatment and his first night in the house at the farm. It was touch and go. He was lethargic and sat unmoving as we cleaned his wounds and injected the antibiotics. We sent out a little prayer and hoped that Mr G made it through the night.

On Friday night I discovered that Mr G had been hit by a car Wednesday, September 29, 2010 and survived on his own for two day before he was discovered and treatment was started. It certainly explained the severity of the injuries.

Poor Mr. G.

By Sunday Mr G seemed a little more lively and we decided to let him have a swim in the bathtub. He made a huge mess an had a blast. A digital video camera was a wedding present and we took a video, so have a look on youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/user/SuperHobbyfarmer?feature=mhum#p/a/u/2/xfUAE9_rXpc

There's also a video of Taz and Gizmo having a stellar Big Bear Fight.

By Wednesday we decided to let Mr G have a little fresh air and a wander around the backyard. He stretched his wings and started limping around enjoying the bugs in the grass and the softly falling rain. After a few minutes Mr G spread his wings and started flying. He didn't make it over the fence, but he flew about twenty feet. This filled me with anxiety.

On Monday we built an aviary for Mr White Smith (just Smith now), so he couldn't wander onto the road. He would fly over any fence without any trouble. He never flew more than six feet off the ground, but it was enough to put him into the dangers of the eighty kilometer per hour road. We confined Smith to the new 20x30 aviary much to his disgust. After two days he seemed unhappy, and as he watched Mr G wander he seemed agitated.

We began our discussions about the pros and cons of clipping their flight wings. We couldn't let Mr G out for rehab because we were afraid he fly over the fence and we couldn't catch him, but maybe something else would. Smith was a danger on the road, but if we clipped those precious six feathers they wouldn't be able to fly from danger.

We've never had trouble with foxes or coyotes here at Beaver Creek Farm, but that didn't mean it wouldn't happen. If we did clip their flight wings we'd have to lock them up at night. More confinement, but at least during the day they could wander the spacious pond area that was secured with a four foot small animal fence.

Pros and cons to both. In the end...

We clipped their flight feathers. It was an easy process. We clipped one side and only took six feathers careful to avoid the blood feathers. Muscovy and mallard ducks only need to be clipped once a year when they molt, so in a year we can re-think and decide if clipping was the right thing to do.

It was a relief. I could let Mr G out into the immediate backyard and not worry that Smith was going to fly the fence and attack him or that Mr G would fly out and wander off. I let Smith out of the aviary and he went immediately to sooth himself in the pond. Smith looked happy again.

Post-clipping I would say both ducks came out on top. Smith got to soak in his pond and Mr G could wander happily around and sit in the yard. We're going to have to be more responsible in locking these two up at night to ensure their safety. I don't think it will be a problem until the snow falls and the predators get desperate for food. February.

After an hour of the backyard I found Mr G making his way towards the back porch. I opened the three doors needed to get him back into his recovery area. It was funny and familiar to allow Mr G to walk into the house and settle into his crate happy as a ... duck.

Biscuit and Sausage Gravy Day!

September 28^th, 2010

It's biscuit and sausage gravy day! A few years ago on our annual pilgrimage to Florida we came across this delish and delightful dish called biscuits and sausage gravy. It's high in every kind of fat and makes me feel sick for days, but it's so yummy.

It smells like bacon and milk fat and makes your mouth water. My body does not like fat, especially milk fat, and the combination of these two has me doubled over with cramps post-eating. I can't wait.

We're heading into Cairo in hopes of finding biscuits and sausage gravy. It seems like just the place to find a southern delicacy. I'll be sure to take lots of pictures of the town and the meal.

We watched Bed of Roses last night since we couldn't watch the Green Bay Game. We even drove up to the lodge to see the game, but the staff said they lost power earlier today and didn't have all their channels. ESPN was the only station they didn't have, to my great disappointment.

We did check the internet and discovered our wedding made it into the local paper. Good friends of Brent's parents, George & Heather Duma were guests at our wedding. George wrote an amazing article in the InPort News. I recently discovered that Mr Duma is the retired editor of the Tribune and still writes a column called “By George” which is regionally syndicated. (I hope I didn't get any of this wrong George!)

There was a romantic picture of us, Poco & Taz and Brent's parents. The wind was making our dresses dance. I love that in the picture both Ellen and I are looking at Poco and Poco is looking at us. It's lovely. George said the wedding was beautiful, magical, romantic and emotional without being over the top.

For us, the wedding was beautiful and we're happy to have friends and family to celebrate. There was a moment when we were exchanging rings that I forgot about everyone, but Brent. I think that was magic. I felt like a Princess, and since Brent is the Prince of Long Beach, I finally have my throne. LOL... You can still call me Amy.

Back to our movie last night: Bed of Roses. It's an old 80's flick with Christian Slater and Mary Stewart Maesterson. It's a love story, a sickly sweet romantic love story and since we in the mood for honeymoon romance we held hands and kissed through the movie. Much like a pair of kids.

The movie was so romantic we resorted to some play fighting that we both thought would lead to... sleeping. We fell asleep surrounded by puppies still holding hands. We're like an old pair of kids.

Escaping West Virginia

Escaping West Virginia is not as easy as it sounds with our four year old GPS. We left the North Bend State Park, which is idyllically located in the middle of nowhere. Access to the park was treacherous at best, but Brent managed to navigate our huge truck and trailer around and up and down the peaks and valleys of the Appalachian Mountains.

After a short stent on a paved road the GPS told us to turn right onto a gravel road. This is okay as plenty of roads in WV are gravel that we've travelled. When the road turned to dirt we got nervous and when this road was growing grass we were terrified. On the passanger's side was a two foot rail made of natural trees the size of the truck tire and on the driver's side was vegetation so close that some was caught in the awing arms when we finally escaped. We did finally escape.

We came to the end of the road with a no non-sense vehicle barrier that would hold in a rhino. With no place to turn around we both started swearing. Viciously. Brent threatened the GPS to within an inch of it's life and I started giggling. We were going to have to back out of here.

I grabbed the video camera and jumped out to help guide Brent. He was still cursing as he starting going backwards. A mile later we found a possible spot to turn around our thirty-two foot trailer. We were losing time by the buckets, but I couldn't help but laugh and Brent started laughing too.

Of course, Brent didn't really start laughing until we'd turned around and were heading out of this Texas Chainsaw inspired back road complete with dilapidated buildings and frightening pit bulls tied at the ends of sturdy chains.

As soon as we escaped from this trail the GPS advised us to turn right again on a gravel road. I looked at Brent with a smile and a nod "have you learned nothing?" I asked.

He laughed and started off down the gravel road with these words echoed in my head "it's only two miles". Yikes.

We saw many interesting dwellings created with a mobile home base and often held up with an old tractor on our gravel road out to highway fifty. Every time I'd get nervous Brent would say stuff like "look they have hydro, so a hydro truck must come down these roads on occassion." I felt oddly reassured as the dust kicked up and we watched a man digging a hole in his front lawn with an ancient backhoe.

"Where do they get their equipment?" Brent asked every time we saw a track loader or a beautiful four wheel drive tractor parked next to the double wide.

We were silent as we turned onto our first paved road in several days. As the mountains and valleys fell behind us and we reached the flats of western New York and were comforted to be close to home, yet sad that our Honeymoon adventure was coming to a close.

Amy's Wedding Speech

Moms Tribute

There are moments, years after my mom died, when her absence is strongly felt. I've stood countless times in the kitchen at the farm with the music playing and remembered kitchen dancing. We'd come home from school and mom would have the music cranked as she made dinner. The instant we walked in the door, she'd grab us we'd do her rendition of swing dancing, but slower... we called it kitchen dancing. Brent and I continue this tradition and kitchen dance on a regular bases.

Today, I have waves of emotion as I stare at the empty space that should be filled by the mother of the bride. My sister and I have had each other to help us through the tough moments. Lisa and I make a point of visiting mom twice a year. The day she was born and the day she died. We take a bottle of wine, in the middle of the afternoon, sit in the cemetery and tell stories and toast our mom – both the good and the bad. So, if you see two girls sitting in the middle of the cemetery with a bottle of wine on a Tuesday – it's just us.

Lisa and I would like you all to join us in a toast to our mom. She loved a good party and as we raise a glass let's make her proud tonight in celebrating our wedding!

Dads Tribute

Now, I'd like to take the opportunity to tell you how I really feel about my dad.

When I was 13 my Dad knew nothing.

When I was 16 my Dad not only knew nothing, but he was wrong.

It wasn't until I was into my twenties that I realized he was right – about everything.

My dad is always helping people. He taught us it was more important to help others than help yourself. I know the man I married today believes in helping others with the same passion as my dad.

Dad taught me about generosity and kindness. He taught me the importance of family and friends. He taught me that the only way to really enjoy a beer was to put in an honest days work.

I was 18 when he told me to make my own decision, but he'd wait until after I made my decision - that I chose wrong. “Way to go Stupid” was a phase saved for those truly unmistakable mistakes that kids make.

He's a big man. A strong man. I've been saying that as soon as he turns 70 I'm going to kick his ass. He turned 70 last march and I'm still waiting.

My dad and I have a common interest through Emergency Services. He's a retired volunteer fire chief and I'm a paramedic. One night after several bottles of butterfly wine I was trying to explain the importance of the defib and he was telling me it was all about CPR. I argued, as a new paramedic would, about technology and he stayed with old fashion chest compressions.

Fifteen years later... after much research from within the medical community... I hate to tell him that he's right again.

I love you dad and I'm glad I got to say this all while you still sitting upright.

Brian and Ellen

The first time I had dinner at the Lindhursts I was a little nervous. As we sat down on the back deck with the sun setting into the lake I was relieved to see they had two bottles of wine on the table and the clear liquid in their pre-dinner drinks glasses was not water.

We ate under the stars and talked for hours. I knew these were my people when the third and forth bottles of wine where set on the table. I knew right then that I had to find a way to join this family.

Thank you for making me feel welcome and thank you for all your kindness and support.

Thank You Toast

What can I say about my new partner in crime? He has the most wonderful ideas. Building these picnic tables was a memorable experience as was renovating the farm, working on the cottages and building his barn out back. I often forget that not every girl can swing a hammer, lay tile, mix concrete and has her own table saw (that both dad and brent borrow).

We like helping people and we like helping each other. Brent is generous and kind. He's loving and romantic. He's funny, often late and sometimes frustrating. I'm glad I'm on this adventure with my best friend.

This beautiful beach wedding was Brent's idea. He did most of the planning, getting, gathering and work. He was so excited and his excitement was contagious. I'm thrilled to be standing next to this man, holding his hand and I can't wait to hear about his next idea.

This wedding has not been about just one day. It's been a collaborative effort of so many people over months of planning. It was a great excuse to spend time with friends. I have wonderful memories of building picnic tables, putting up the tent and setting up. Chuck and Jill worked so hard on the lighting and Billy swinging a sledge like a princess was incredibly entertaining. My dad got the tractor stuck right over there...

the flowers are incredible – Thanks to my sister Lisa and her shop Shirley Ann's Flowers for adding the icing to the cake. Shirley Ann's Flowers can be found at 336 Central Ave in Fort Erie.... I'm sure she'll give you a discount.

Thanks to my cousin Miranda who made the wedding cake and we only spoke on the phone once.

Finally, we'd like to thank you all for coming to the beach and joining us in celebrating our wedding.

We'd like to thank our wedding Party: Lisa & Robbie, Jill & Chuck, Billy & Jess, Maggie, Erin & Kate and our silent bride's maid Jenn who travelled from Alberta to be here today... and who could forget our puppies: Taz, Gizmo and Poco. - these puppies keep me sane and bring so much joy. I can't wait to see the pictures!

We'd like to thank Pastor Tom, HR and Katrina for doing a wonderful job.

Thanks to my new husband for creating a beautiful day fit for a princess. I love you.  

Brent's Wedding Speech

Here it is – the day that has kept us up for many nights.  A day some believed never would come. It's time for the well meant cliques.  The thank yous.

I'm not sure how other people write.  I think about writing while I'm doing other things – which explains some of my scars and lack of sleep.  I've been thinking about these thank yous for some time, and I thought about a good chunk of them while we were building these picnic tables.

I suspect pretty much everybody knows this, but I'm not originally from here, here meaning Wainfleet.  I suspect that there were attempts to conceive me here – but I wasn't born here.  Wow, that's completely off topic.  Anyhow – this is home - I've grown here, made mistakes here, learned here, and made some of my best friends here – and some friends of mine taught me if you're going to get married in Wainfleet you're going to build some picnic tables.

When I asked Amy to marry me she was thrilled (of course).  As we climbed over the initial shock of me asking such a grown up question we started talking about details.  Amy wasn't surprised by my suggestion of venue; she instantly agreed.  And she was oddly not surprised when I said: we need to build picnic tables.  She didn't even laugh at such a suggestion.  Likewise she didn't laugh when I recommended installing squeaky, bangy hinges on the new screen door at the Farm.  I knew I had the right girl.  Anyhow, so we built picnic tables.

Amy and I build together well.  It's one of the reasons I knew she was the one.

These picnic tables are analogous to our relationship.  They aren't perfect – but they'll hold more than their share.  They might be a little out of square, but still are oddly atheistically pleasing.  They're extremely functional.  Amy and I sweat and probably bled a little over these tables.  We work hard at things together.  But their construction had lots of help.  We're fortunate to have lots of support.  And there's more than a little beer and sweat spilled on these by people we're lucky enough to consider friends.  A great union needs hard work together, but it also needs outside help.  We're thankful that we have that.  Thank you to our picnic table support crew – our friends.

Thank you Amy for proof reading my words, for building my picnic tables.  Many believe when they see a grand wedding under a big tent that this is for the bride.  Thank you Amy, for this excitement is largely for me.  If you enjoy yourself, thank Amy for running along with me.  I suspect that Amy would be equally satisfied with a small civil ceremony.  From the first murmur of our nuptials I knew I wanted a celebration fit for such an occasion – I mean how many thought this day would never come?  Thank you Amy for the rest of our lives together, starting with such a grand beginning.  For teaching, listening, and kitchen dancing.  Thank you for only quietly rolling your eyes when I heat up yesterday's coffee.  I'll keep making the new stuff for you though.  Thank you Amy for this day and all the rest.

We thank our families who have put up with decades of craziness until we finally met our match – and married each other.  Thank you for this beautiful location, thank you for opening your house to our celebration.  Thank you Mom and Dad for putting up with months of incredible wow and helping make this celebration a reality.  And thank you for the many, many years of support through fun and challenges (mostly fun) that lead to this day.

Thank you Frank for welcoming me into your Family.  He has a funny way of welcoming a new family member.  His brother tells you to get him a beer and Frank lets you help lay flooring.  It's a wonderful welcome which makes me feel as much a part of the family as any of his kids.  When he called one of my decisions “stupid” I knew I was in.

Thank you to our extended families, our friends.  Our supporters.  A friend of mine says he can't pick his family.  Friends are family that you pick.  Thank you friends for your fond thoughts and wishes and joining us for today's celebration.  A special thank you to our friends who have helped us create this day by setting up, constructing, and who'll help with the tidy.  We are blessed to have many friends and thank you.

Thank you to the bartenders, the food and catering staff.  We owe you; you're helping distract our guests from the splinters.  How about a quick hand for these wonderful people – the backbone behind a great celebration!

And what would a celebration be without music?  Thank you to Ray and the band for bringing together the sound system so everybody could hear the words I've been so looking forward to offering and the music that will make this celebration a wonderful memory.

The legal, the spiritual, is done.  Let us celebrate!

We Wrote Our Vow

Bride to Groom:

I Amy take you Brent to be my best friend, partner in cahoots, travel companion and husband.

I promise to be faithful, honest, kind and loving.

In front of God, family and friends I vow to be a good wife, honest partner and willing adventurer.

I will stand by you during the good and bad. I will love you all the days of our lives.

Groom to Bride:

I Brent take you Amy to be my wife; my equal, my muse, my confidant, my conscience.

I promise that you will have the first choice of crayons when we colour, the best hammer when we build.

In the presence of God, our family and friends I vow to be a best friend & faithful partner and to love and cherish you as long we both shall live through joy and challenges.

Football Sunday

September 27^th – Cairo, West Virginia 1800

Yesterday it rained and the temperature dropped into low seventies creating a perfect environment for shopping. Armed with our slightly odd list we went into the town of Ashland, Kentucky to search for things like battery ties, a hatchet, chicken, dog food and a pair of kitchen scissors. Walmart, a necessary evil, would contain all of these items plus several more that we didn't realize we needed.

Armed with our HDTV antenna in hopes of seeing some Sunday football we started heading back to our campsite when we spotted the local pub and grill. I think there was only one because it was quite large. We headed to the bar area and flat-screen TV's.

We had barely glanced around when the bartender asked what we'd like to drink. I looked around a little closer and noticed there were no beer taps, no lovely amber bottles of alcohol, no tumblers and no visible signs of the “pub” part.

The bartender looked apologetic and said “sorry, no alcohol on Sundays”. What??? How do we watch football without beer?? Startled we ordered water and stared at each other in shock. Was this the bible belt? Oh dear... no beer. No wonder the bar was empty on a Sunday.

We ordered some fried appetizers and a bowl of potato soup (not as good as our favourite) and left at half time. We decided we'd try our luck with the HDTV antenna.

After several attempts we managed to get a bit of one of the four o'clock games. I was delighted to see the Chiefs were now 3-0 and knew how happy my work partner Dave would be that they beat San Francisco.

To my delight, and Brent's resignation we got NBC – Sunday night football!!! Woohoo!!! It turned out to be a great game between the Dolphins and the Jets. I watched the whole thing while sucking back as many beers as possible. It was limited due to the potato soup from the pub, but I kept trying.

We woke today to more rain and even cooler temperatures. It was time to search a warmer, drier climate. We decided to pick a spot north east on our way home, but not Ohio. We started driving towards West Virginia and stopped at the welcome centre to pick out a state park.

It took us five minutes to decide on the 3300 acre State Park called North Bend just outside of Cairo, West Virginia. It was a difficult drive with narrow twisty roads once we got off highway fifty, but it was worth every time the trailer tire rolled off the road and frightened the crap out of us.

We're going to head back into Cairo tomorrow to check it out. We saw four people on the narrow porches and every single one of them waved at our Ontario truck and trailer. I guess they don't get much traffic. There was a diner, general store and general gift shop. The town is set into the side of a hill, so the sidewalks are narrow and everything is on an angle. It's quaint and a little backwater, but beautiful.

I can't wait to check it out.

Our campsite is beside a small stream nestled in a valley. There are no digital channels, no internet, but there is a handful of campers who've found their way to this secluded spot in the mountains of West Virginia.

A word of advice for those looking to camp in the United States: State parks. Don't bother with the expensive KOA or privately run campgrounds. The State Parks are clean with lots of hiking, biking, paddling and hook ups. The general feel of the state park is one of relaxation. The big excitement is when a new rig pulls in, which doesn't happen all that often during the week.

I think there are thirty-two RV sites and only fifteen have electric here in North Bend State Park. Fewer than ten have electric and water. Our spot has both, a little stream and is right across from the shower. I can see four other campers from my perch and it gives the feeling of comfort. Isolated, but not alone.

I hope that's a good thing in West Virginia. We think we may have heard some banjos last night.

Overall our camping experience has been fantastic. We've nearly set ourselves on fire last night with an electrical problem, we lost and recovered a kayak, outran a tornado and have managed to find several incredible places to visit, get lost and found in less than a day.

We're having the time of our lives.

One Week Anniversary!

September 25, 2010

Just for the record: I was having a nap at four o'clock today, exactly one week ago when we were married. Wow. Married. Do all newly married folks wake up in the morning and go... “holy crap. We're married?” I still do. Given my occupation, I'm eternally grateful to be surprised and extra happy that Brent is the dude who can still shock.

We woke surprised because we thought it was still raining, but the sun was shining through a perfect blue sky. We expected rain. We were told there might be some lingering showers, but it was not meant to be in the little valley of Greenbo, Kentucky.

We rose and drank coffee with baileys excited about the day's adventures. First order was a good kayak. We took all three puppies and started paddling towards the lodge four and a half miles uphill if you went by foot or car. Much shorter by water.

Gizmo found a great spot inside the kayak and out of the sun with the cool plastic on his belly, while Taz sat on the top of the kayak barking at the hikers along the water's edge. Poco sat in his captain's position with Brent. Excellent.

It took us an hour to paddle to the lodge and then we hiked around the lodge. We found the pool – empty. We found the waterside - dry. We continued our trek until we came to an empty parking lot protected by a pair of white ducks. I hope Mr & Mr Smith are doing well.

We had an hour paddle back and were encouraged by our hunger as breakfast was ages ago. Back at the trailer we ate sausage, potatoes with carrots and green pepper. Brent had to have a couple of melty cheese sandwiches to really fill up after the bowl of sausage. A short nap later and we decided to go for a hike.

We thought a short hike after kayaking would do nicely. We left the campsite before five in the afternoon and two hours later found ourselves lost in Greenbo State Park somewhere in the hills of the Appalachian mountains of Kentucky.

We worried a little as the sun began to set and the dogs walked slower and slower. We ended up carrying Taz and Gizmo at times during the heavy uphill climbs. We didn't intend to hike so far, but we were talking and got lost. No map. No GPS. No nothing.

At one point Brent said “you have to get lost to find yourself sometimes.” I don't disagree, but I didn't feel particularly lost at this point in my life. I don't think he appreciated my sentiment.

We had a few bottles of water and some apples. The dogs had food and the desire to run. The first two hours were incredibly beautiful, but nearing the sun setting and the trails getting dark we were getting nervous.

We managed to find our way back to camp just before eight in the evening. Tired and hungry we fell upon a package of hot dogs and destroyed it. The veggies and some fruit were our next victims until we felt mildly satisfied.

A little campfire talk later and we were headed for the public showers. Brent should be back soon and it's time I finished my third glass of wine.

What a busy day and still waiting for the chocolate cake. Our biggest decision is whether to stay another day in Kentucky or head to West Virginia for some Smokey Mountains??

The dogs are out cold. Their little legs aren't even running in sleep because they ran too much on our hike. Taz only fell off the kayak once today... kayaking can be dangerous.

It did cool down to eighty-five today. Last night we slept with the air conditioning and tonight we have a little heater going. Life changes so quickly.

Public Showers

I'd like to talk briefly about public showers. Staying at a campground comes with many wonderful benefits, but hooking up to full sewer is something we're not willing to spend $12 extra dollars a night on. We'll use the public showers... plus our hot water tank is not big enough to support a ten minute shower. I can barely wash my hair, but it's a fair trade off to have a shower rather than no shower at all.

Public showers: often dirty, frequently busy and with many drawbacks, but much like country music I love them.

I love them for their unlimited hot water. I love them for their high water pressure that does not change when several toilets are flushed at once. I was covered in suds in the public shower and heard two toilets flush and couldn't help but do a little dance to celebrate the public shower as neither the pressure or water temperature changed.

Having said that I managed to drop my fresh underwear in the water pooled on the floor. I worry about foot fungus and the many people who have been naked where I'm currently standing.

Still... I don't have to clean this shower. I can take a full twenty minutes with unchanging water pressure and temperature. As a farm girl raised on limited water, even more limited water pressure and super limited water temperature I can tell you the joy I feel at using a shower where even if I wash my hair AND shave my legs I can still luxuriate in minutes more of hot water and pressure.

I guess it's perspective. I don't have unlimited water at home to play, so these public showers are a little like a gift with the exception of strangers pooping in the stall next to you and my short walk back in the rain, but hey... nothing is perfect.

The First Honeymoon Kayak

September 24^th, 2010

Happy Birthday Rob and Happy Anniversary to Lisa and Rob!!! I wish I was celebrating with you today instead of fishing Taz out of Greenbo Lake... again!!

Tomorrow is our one week anniversary and we're thinking of celebrating with chocolate cake and a ten mile trip into town. Fancy!! LOL...

It turns out we're the type of people who listen to country music when in Kentucky, wash plastic disposable utensils and take our trailer on our honeymoon. We also: write on our laptops, learn about geocacheing (thanks Brian and Jenn), take videos with our new digital camcorder (thanks Wojick Family) and watch our portable DVD player (thanks Debra and Harry) outside beside the fire (we watched our favourite movie last night on the little screen: Pump up the Volume – stuck in the 80's).

We managed to drop our kayaks into the Greenbo Lake today and paddle for a little bit in the ninety-five degree heat. The wind picked up to cool us off and heat us up by having to paddle harder. Poco sat happily in captain's position between Brent's legs and Taz wandered up and down the front of my kayak. We really need to put a non-slip surface on the top. Luckily she only fell in once. They all have lifejackets, so I managed to fish her out without much ado and she happily wandered to the front of the boat as soon as her little paws hit the plastic. Gizmo stayed in the trailer for his mid-afternoon nap.

To our delight the little sea kayak survived it's slide down the interstate without damaging it's ability to float. Brent looked nervous as he pushed the kayak into the water and just sat still for several minutes before determining the craft was sea worthy. Miracles.

The state park is really filling in for the weekend and we're happy to have a spot up on the hill. We're angled sideways away from the people so we look fondly on the forest, but the noise of the other campers has reached our ears. Taz is so exhausted that she's not barking and the boys have found comfortable spots to rest, which means we can rest as well.

We took a good hike after a few glasses of wine post-kayak. The heat really bothers the little dogs and we're happy to hear it's going to be seventy-five tomorrow. We should be able to tackle a good hike after the rains push through tonight.

Brent and I have decided this is one of our best adventures.

We've got the charcoal grill up and running again tonight. This is the last of our steak, shrimp and potatoes. I just flipped a steak and felt the first of many raindrops. I'm so happy we're not in a tent!

Honeymoon Adventures

September 22, 2010

It's nearly ten at night on September 22, 2010 and we're five days post-wedding. After extensively cuddling a Gizmo Brent has settled into reading his book and I've decided to write about the days adventures. We used my sister's gift of a charcoal grill to barbecue some steaks and shrimp. Along with a bottle of red wine we enjoyed our meal outside with only the sound of the katydids to keep us company.

It was an adventurous day. It took us about forty minutes to tear down and get ready to drive. It poured rain as we emptied our waste in the dump station, but it didn't dampen our spirits. We headed south west toward the Kentucky border with coffee in our bellies and joy in our hearts.

We were two hours in when an F350 towing a huge fifth wheel pulled up beside us and gestured upwards. We pulled over at the next exit and found we were one kayak short. We finished fuelling and headed back east in search of our little sea kayak.

We found the little orange mess just west of a bridge on the interstate and had to go up two miles to the next exit and turn around in hopes of a quick retrieval. About a mile away from the exit we saw a state trooper and became more nervous about the trouble we could be in for having an unsafe load and causing an accident. We were grief-stricken at the thought that our naughty kayak may have caused harm.

Luckily the trooper paid us no attention as we casually drove by and headed towards our orange beauty laying in the grassy median between the four lanes of traffic of the interstate. Like an insane pair of teens we raced out of the truck and before I could get around to the side Brent had thrown the damaged kayak into the bed of the truck and was already heading to the driver's seat screaming “get in. Get in wife!”

We raced away and couldn't stop until we were hours away from the scene of the crime. As we examined the kayak we were grateful it hadn't caused an accident. Our flying kayak had only damaged itself with a few scrapes and two dents that righted themselves as we travelled in the ninety-five degree heat.

Phew. Thank goodness I took that vow to be Brent's willing adventurer and partner in cahoots.

We stopped in Columbus, Ohio for human and puppy supplies before continuing our trek south west to a four hundred acre public park on the Kentucky / Ohio border. We were fifteen minutes south of Columbus when the wind picked up and debris started flying across the road. Weird. The sky went black and the rain began to fall.

I said to Brent “this looks like tornado weather”. He laughed. Five minutes later the local radio station made the emergency broadcast warnings with the loud blaring beeps. We look at each other in shock as we listened to the broadcast of the tornado warning for Columbus and areas east.

The storm was heading east at thirty-five miles an hour and we were heading south west at sixty miles per hour. We were out running it, but just barely. It was exciting to see the funnel clouds in the distance and watch the sky turn an eerie grey-green colour. We were exhilarated as the electricity heated up the air to ninety and then drop the outside air to seventy in less than five minutes. We raced out of the path of the storm.

Still riding the high of the intense storm we travelled along the rural road for several hours without much thought. I started to realize we've been thirty minutes away from our destination for nearly two hours. What?

It was the snaky roads with fifteen mile an hour curves and fifteen percent grades up and down hill that caused us to slow. Brent missed a turn and it added fifteen minutes and an adventurous endeavour onto a dirt path that was barely wide enough to support our truck and thirty-two foot trailer.

We finally arrived at Long Family Resort, but couldn't find any staff. It said they were open till ten and it was only eight, but there was nobody around. We searched and search and finally decided to find our own camping spot.

We examined the public map of the facility and decided on a spot by the creek far from the office. The creek was dry, but the shore power was on as was the water. Jackpot!

We fired up our charcoal grill and barbecued some steak and shrimp. I made some red wine potatoes in the microwave that surprised us both to create a lovely meal. Brent was in charge of shopping and somehow forgot the veggies... again. Don't worry as apples, peaches and grapes were our travel snacks.

We ate our dinner and started a lovely fire to enjoy the evening. We're both a little nervous about “stealing” a site, but we promise to pay in the morning.

We're deciding where we want to travel to tomorrow. Kansas City, MO or do we head towards the two thousand acre state park on the Kentucky / Indiana Border? Brent is suggesting we head towards Beckley, WV and find a spot in the mountains.

I know tomorrow comes with be another great adventure. I hope we get internet soon, so I can post some of these stories.

I finished my quick five minute shower and I'm incredibly grateful to have washed my hair. It's Brent's turn to enjoy the hot water and I can't help but giggle as I see him running around the trailer in his nudies. It's okay because we're married now! Ha ha...

New Blog! September 23^rd, 2010.

Happy Birthday Lisa! I didn't forget... I just don't have any cell or internet reception!!!

We woke this morning to the sounds of jet planes. It was so loud and disturbing that we decided that this campground was not the spot to spend several days. The sad dried up creek bed and lack of occupants was not enough on it's own to have us leaving, but the sound of construction (someone was building a deck on their trailer about one hundred feet from where we had parked) and the jet planes helped convince us it was time to move on. .

After a quick coffee we packed up and headed south east into Kentucky. We noticed an immediate change in the vegetation and the housing. There seemed to be thousands of dilapidated mobile homes in rural southern Ohio. The area seemed so depressed and depressing, but as soon as we crossed the bridge to Kentucky the world was greener and the houses had foundations and basements.

We used the AAA camp book and picked out Greensbo State Resort and Park - a 33,000 acre state park in the north east corner of Kentucky that boasted a whopping sixty trailer sites with electricity and water. We found a lovely shady corner around one in the afternoon and set up.

In our area there were only six other trailers and our spot was on top of a hill. We had a heck of a time levelling the trailer and even moved it sideways so our door faced the woods before we were satisfied.

Once set up we decided to ride our bikes the half mile to the ranger station to pay our bill for three nights ($63 – for all three nights including tax). It took a while to set up and hook up the dog trailer and the basket that goes on the front of the bike. Taz and Gizmo love the trailer ride and Poco enjoys his perch from the basket. I think I'd gone about two hundred feet when my rear tire blew. I pushed the bike including trailer and Poco in the basket back to our site. Site fifty-one.

We jumped in the truck and drove out to the ranger station stopping along the way to watch a new trailer owner try and back into a spot. After several tries she pulled around on the grass and made it a drive-through. We smiled as she laughed and waved on our way by.

Once paid up we drove across the street to check out the lake. It was huge and we can't wait to drop our kayaks in for a paddle tomorrow. I imagine we'll go for a hike after our wine, but for now it's time to relax and maybe take a nap. We've decided to stay until at least Sunday that way we beat the weekend rush and can really enjoy some paddling and hiking. Hopefully we can get a new tire for my bike tomorrow.

It's now four thirty and we're having a glass of wine. Brent is reading and I'm writing. Too bad there's no internet, but looking at the green trees and enjoying the ninety degree heat I can't say that I mind.

We've finally found a spot we can sit and stay for a spell. Maybe we'll move on Monday or maybe we'll stay longer. It's a lovely spot and it's wonderful to know we've found a great spot for a few days of outdoor adventures. I hope the weather is with us! No more tornados!

It's just after eleven at night and we've had our fair share to drink tonight knowing we aren't going to have drive in the morning. With excessive drinking usually comes injury and we're no exception. I was stepping over the little two foot fence we have for the puppies and I stuck my foot right into this steel contraption Brent bought to help start the coals on fire. I have a six inch laceration on my left ankle to prove my agility. These things happen. I'm not complaining too much, other than it really hurts!

When we searched for my shoe we found it inside the metal device. Woohoo... I did a good job.     

p.s... we never did find anyone this morning at the other campground... Oops...

Day 4 of Being Married

September 21^st, 2010 – day Four of being Married.

Well... phew. It took us all day Sunday to clean up after the wedding. We moved all the picnic tables off the beach and took down the tent. Thanks to all our friends who stayed to help and a big huge thanks to Bill Cushman for his time and his amazing (and beautiful) tractor. It's so shiny.

By the time we got to the farm it was nearly eight at night and we were exhausted, but I was far too excited to wait another day to open our wedding gifts. Wow. We were amazed at the creativity of gifts and the generosity of donations. Wow. Thank you. Especially our parents. We love you all.

We woke Monday morning still tired and didn't manage to get started on the trailer until nearly eleven in the morning. We were slow. We pulled everything out of the trailer and laid it garage-sale style on the driveway of the farm. This seemed to draw much attention because people started stopping by. We had to have a beer or wine with our guests who wanted to wish us well on our wedding and they kept asking... Why haven't you left yet? We'd laugh and admit to moving at a turtle's pace.

We love when people stop by the farm for a visit. We happily delayed our departure to visit with family and friends. You are always welcome at the farm. We cherish you.

By eight o'clock Monday night we realized we weren't leaving, but Brent wanted to keep the romance alive and what better way than an all you can eat steakhouse? We had a gift certificate for Brasa Brazilian Steakhouse in Niagara Falls and we quickly showered and drove to the Honeymoon capital for our first dinner out as husband and wife.

It was delightful. Salty, but delightful! We laughed and I told everyone that we were just married. Brent smiled his quiet proud smile and continued to eat red meat until I thought he might burst.

We got back to the farm around eleven and fell into bed. I woke around two with the meat sweats. I'm happy to avoid meat for a few days. Just ask Chris about the all you can eat Mongolian place in Vancouver when he got the meat sweats.

Tuesday morning came quickly and we started to prepare to leave. By eleven we were still at the farm, but mostly ready. With dogs loaded we waved a farewell at my dad and headed for the border. First stop: Duty Free!

Several bottles of hard alcohol later we headed south west, tried unsuccessfully to open a join US account and then decided to really start driving. It was one in the afternoon. Three days post-wedding and we were finally ready to start our honeymoon. There are some drawbacks to doing it yourself and losing time is one of them. I would not trade the lack of debt for the lack of time any day of the week. Our honeymoon might be shorter, but our lives are just as rich.

By three p.m. we decided to stop and found a private campground called By The Lake. It was fairly typical, but what came as a loud surprise was the sound of the I90 racing towards Cleveland. We were in Ohio, but just barely.

We set up the trailer without any loss of limb and then sat to enjoy a bottle of wine, some cheese and crackers thanks to Betty Ann and Rick Chandler who gave us a lovely gift basket complete with everything you'd need for a picnic.

After a brief nap Brent announced we needed charcoal for the small grill my sister gave us as a wedding present. We walked the one mile to K-mart with the pups and brought the dog stroller to return with the bag of charcoal. After a two mile walk the dogs were napping and we were grilling sausage over a charcoal BBQ incredibly proud of ourselves.

With the light from Diane Conner wedding gift of a three candle lamp we cooked over an open fire and managed to burn, or at least singe the edges of everything we ate. It was the best honeymoon meal ever. Hot dogs, sausages and potato chips with soco to drink on ice. No wonder we're getting fatter, but heck we're on vacation!

We managed to get the hot water tank lit and I had a short and cool shower while Brent manned the fire. It felt good to be self sufficient.

We talked about other honeymoons options and both agreed that this is was our best idea. I'm sitting under the stars in Ohio beside a fire and the only sound is the I90 racing to Erie.

The best news? The truck and trailer pulled beautifully! We were delighted with our progress and in the power of our truck. The trailer is like a home on wheels.

It's nearly ten at night and we're sitting around the campfire with the puppies passed out and Brent snoring gently in the chair beside me. I guess we should go to bed and watch a movie... wink. Wink.

There is no where else I'd rather be than sitting under the stars in Ohio by an open fire with my love and best friend snoring in the lawn chair beside me. Sweet dreams husband bear.