Monday Meander - April 24, 2023

 Oh, the PlacesYou'll Go, Grammy!

When the grandbabies arrived in my life, I imagined introducing them to all my favourite places and things that I enjoy doing. I imagined the fun and even the educational value of such adventures, opening their minds and eyes to this amazing world. 

And so it was that a few weeks ago we met up with little ones and their parents at the Royal Ontario Museum (the ROM) for their very first visit to the home of dinosaurs, fossils, mummies, and so much more. I was giddy with anticipation, keen to show them the wonders. 

Of course I'd forgotten all about what happens when one goes out in the company of a four-year-old and a nearly two-year-old. I'd forgotten how futile adult plans can be. But was I disappointed? Not one bit! In fact those two little ones led this old fossil on a journey of joy and wonder that was way more fun than anything I had planned or even imagined.

The WOW of dinosaurs!

The finger tip connection to the land before time.

The littles and I were a bit overwhelmed by it all - so much, so big, and so small too - so out of this world and yet not. We'll go back again.

The grandkids have also transported me to magical places in my own house. When they come to visit, I know that I'll be doing things I did not plan. I know I'll be going places I did not anticipate. Take yesterday for example.

I was  invited into an artist's world of her creative process.

I watched a horse farm manager keep things organized and heard her stories of the horses.

And later, I traveled to a wild life safari park to learn about how the animals all live side by side together.

Of all the places the grandkids and I could go, the best are the ones they show me.

©2023 April Hoeller 

Monday Moanings - June 25, 2018

A cool wet nose presses up against my bed-warm face. "Mommy, I saw the suitcases. And that little bear too. I just know that You're leaving on a jet plane. I don't know when you'll be back again."

Poor puppy. The resident canine doesn't quite understand time. She gives me one of those 'omg you've been gone so long whole body wiggle greetings' even if I've only been gone five minutes.







Ahh well, she gets to stay in her own home. The house sitters are here - two of her most favourite people -  and Sophie has already over-written all my dog care instructions with her own - more treats, more walks, more treats, more treats.

This 75 pound German Shepherd - Alaskan Malamute will not starve. She'll romp in her own yard, go for walkies in the forest she knows so well, and sleep in her own bed every night. She'll get lots of lovies - but perhaps not quite as many treats as she would like.

And the travelers? Well, we'll be fine too. The ToDo list has shrunk to the few things that can only be done on the day of departure - more instructions for the house sitters, final carry-on pack, and document check (this for the umpteenth time!).

With Schwartz von Bear in charge of the tours, adventure is always assured...

...as is ample refreshment!

Time to go. See y'all back here in three weeks or so.
Be well.

©2018 April Hoeller