Yesterday we arrived at Smith Rock Chalets in Scotsburn, Pictou County for our annual family reunion. In the past, the venue has been Pictou Lodge, but after tropical storm Fiona, it has been closed.
Smith Rock Chalets sits on top of Fitzpatricks Mountain.
Three weeks ago, Andrew and his family arrived to help us move from Paradise to Middleton. This weekend, the house in Paradise is ready for sale; the house in Middleton contains our furniture and other assets. This next week, we can enjoy Pictou County with Patrick and Emily with Fraser and Logan; Andrew and Julia with Quinn and Isla Rose; Laurel and Nic with Marcus and Owen.
In addition, we will spend time with John Stewart (Heather’s Dad), Heather’s sister Sandy and Don; and brother Stephen.
With hindsight, the biggest challenge from the move has been technology. Changing banks led to a different procedure for E-transfer; i.e. Credit Union requires cell phone for verification.
In addition, I went to the Hearing Institute in Kingston. This led to hearing aids that need to be charged overnight. The new overnight routine includes charging the iPad, cell phone and the hearing aids..
Fortunately, at Smith Rock chalet, life will be simpler. Time to catch-up with grandchildren, their use of technology in this rural landscape. I can simply listen to the birds and enjoy a new landscape, overlooking the Northumberland Strait shore. Should be back to ‘normal’ in a few weeks. We can look forward to rediscovering the community of Middleton.
Just stepped outside, to enjoy the view at 7 am. The chalet door closed behind me, keys inside. Heather has just offered to walk down to the lodge to obtain a house key. An inauspicious start to the day !
Ernest Blair Experiment 