It’s been nearly four and half years since our last trip back to Niagara or any overseas destination. There was a little pandemic that interrupted several travel plans, but it appears now we’re getting back to whatever normal is! The timing for this trip meant we could leave behind Australian winter to enjoy some Canadian summer. We were nervous at first to be in Canada with all the bears there, but quickly got over our fears with a much-anticipated Caesar to calm our nerves.
This trip was of great significance to celebrate Dad’s 90th birthday. Although he knew we were coming for a visit, he certainly didn’t know what was planned for his celebration. It was a nice day for a drive up the parkway and a lunch at Betty’s restaurant where 40 guests were awaiting our arrival. It was so nice to see family and friends gathered to celebrate with a cheer of ‘surprise’ to greet him as he entered.
We also enjoyed some special time with the Schoonings starting with a beautiful girls day out at a winery and ending with a family dinner where we were able to finally meet the newest member of our family. We were happy to be congratulate Joe and Jenny on their recent marriage with in-person hugs and get a bit of ‘glimpse’ of our niece who should be arriving very soon. And of course, the evening was filled with lots of stories and laughter.
Catching up with all our friends and family over the week was a tight schedule. We were off doing multiple visits a day to see as many people as possible. There was no shortage of good food, good times and great company during our visit. Thanks to the Manders and Colas for their hospitality and arranging a couple of parties.
Throughout the week, so many people took time from their schedules to spend some time with us. Here’s a bit of the fun and excitement. There was a Delia dinner spectacular, coffee and Guinness get togethers, a high school girls social, Casa Mia Restorante lunch, the Fazarri fling, a lovely Monaghan brunch, the Schoonz backyard bonfire and a Gman cookout! We couldn’t have asked for a better reception.
Being back in Chippawa also gave us a chance to get out on the ‘crick’. We were excited to go for a float but definitely hadn’t anticipated a wind chill factor. Luckily Remy was there to cuddle to keep us warm.
And of course, many thanks to our host Schoonz for a comfy bed and all the essentials for a great stay. It’s a perfect place for us to come and go during our visit and to catch an all-Canadian sunrise to help manage the jetlag. It was so great to spend time with you, practice chess with Landon and to meet sweet little girl Skylar.
At the end of a busy stay, it was time to say farewell and start heading back down to Australia. There was just one last thing to do before saying goodbye. Cheers!
