!!!

It is less than a year since the accident, and mum has tackled the greatest of all physical hurdles: She waterskied! And looked better than ever.

This is truly a defining moment for our family. In the weeks following the accident, we were not sure how far she could possibly recover from such serious injuries. And following that, as the prognoses from doctors and physiotherapists were better and better, there was still a lagging fear among all of us that she might never have the strength to be as active as she had in the past – and worst of all, that she may never waterski again.

Mum’s beautiful ski last Saturday is a testament of how far she has come, and the many obstacles she has risen above.

Community

An excerpt from Kathleen’s Sunday Services Talk on Sunday, August 10^th 2008

“Lac des Iles: Community & Empathy”

A very good friend of mine, in the midst of my grief said to me: “I know you feel you’ve lost a lot, but I can’t wait until you finally realize all of the love coming your way too.” Luckily, I got there, and have been able to see the fortune that has fallen on us. One of those fortunes is being a part of this amazing community – a community that I believe defines how amazing human connections can be.

This year has also shown me that at the root of most humans lies a well of love. When something tragic occurs, we are shaken to our cores – as it did to all of us when our cottage exploded, when we lost our beautiful Mimi and my extraordinary father. It is at that core that humans function in their truest and most honest selves. We stop analyzing outcomes, worrying about past conflict or issues, and we just “do”. We “do” or “act” with our hearts. It is at that core, that I witnessed, or heard of some of the bravest, most beautiful and generous acts that I could have ever imagined. Our cottage property, our lake, our home and our hearts were filled with this beauty. Our cumulative value in community, and our foundation of love for each other, drove each person to care in their own unique and exceptional way. These amazing acts started on September 1^st, and continue to this day.

Construction Begins

As of August 21st, 2008, construction has officially begun on the new cottage.
Step 1: The Big Dig

Ground Breaking Ceremony

On the Sunday of Regatta weekend, members of the lake community gathered on our property to mark the start of construction of the new cottage.

David McEntyre prepared a special blessing for the new house:

"Lord, as we gather to commence the reconstruction of this house, we ask for Your blessings upon this special place at Lac des Iles, and upon all those who have shared and enjoyed it in the past, and upon all those who will share and enjoy it in the future. We thank you for Your grace that has given our family the opportunity to live here and for the wonderful times and memories this place has brought to our lives.

We remember, at this time, those loved ones and dear friends with whom we have shared this special place; who, though no longer with us, remain with us in spirit and in our hearts. We especially remember Jim who loved the Lake and particularly this lovely spot, where we laughed with him and his dry sense of humour, and enjoyed so many good times together.

We also particularly remember Peter and Creelie, whose love of the Lake, and of life, was a joy they shared with everyone. They turned this property into so many happy times for our family and for our friends, (several of whom also joined this wonderful Lake community). We also remember Aunt Margie Williams, and of course Mimi, and other departed friends and family, with whom we had many many wonderful times at Lac des Iles.

As reconstruction begins, Lord, we also ask that You watch over those who will be building this home and protect them from harm.

And finally, Lord, we pray you will continue to watch over this land and this family, and all who will share this special place in the years to come."

Canada, Quebec and Algeria flags were raised in Dad and Mimi's honour