Easter means many things to many people. For me it is a time of renewal and a time for family. I took the photo above of the lovely camellia blossom at my cousin Marian’s during a much-appreciated visit for Easter Long Weekend. My time with Marian and Bob and their family reminded me how grateful I am to have family to visit, even out here on the west coast. Wonderful food was shared, common stories and new stories told, hugs were gathered and love and  laughter rejuvenated the soul.

My visit to lovely Gibsons helped lessen the homesickness I feel at Easter when I cannot be with my family back home in Ontario. It also helped me feel gratitude for the times that I have shared this weekend with my family in past years. It was just this weekend last year that I traveled home unexpectedly to spend time with my Mum and Dad as we processed the news that Dad was very sick and that our time together would sadly be cut short. Luckily for us, we shared the same appreciation for family and for the moments that we did get to spend together each and every visit. We always hugged a little longer. We remembered to share stories that would be important to recall in future days when they would bring a smile to us rather than tears. We laughed. A lot! With each one of Mum’s exclaimed “fiddle-faddles” or Dad’s “yarns” we made the most of our time together and I am so very grateful for this!

As you enjoy this long weekend, remember to make time for family and for friends. Give good, solid hugs! Tell stories and laugh! You are creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.