Hiking in Ontario in July

Hiking with cousins along Lake Erie.






















Blessings of nature observation along the way. These holes are Bank Swallow nests along the lake. For more information see the world wide web dot longpointbiosphere dot com. Apparently the Lake Erie bank swallow population is likely the largest concentration of breeding of these birds in the world.

Hiking in June

On June 17 we headed for Waterton with Auntie Joyce to hike some trails together. We drove to an elevation of 5,400 ft and were thankful for our winter emergency bag which was still in the car. With mitts and hat, it was still cold without a coat! The lake was still frozen!






We attempted to hike, but soon were prevented by the snow hiding the trail.









At lower elevations, spring had sprung, hibernation was finished and this fella was enjoying dandelions along the roadside. Numerous wildflowers were blooming.









After Auntie Joyce purchased a coat to keep warm, we chose to hike Lower Bertha Falls trail, 5.2Km with an elevation gain of 175m (574ft). As the hiking progressed, the temperatures rose and the clothing was peeled layer by layer.

May Hiking

We headed for Waterton National park, purchased a seasons pass and enjoyed monthly visits to explore the various hiking trails. Since it was the beginning of the season and our need to ease into hiking....we began at the Townsite falls.









We attempted to take an easy trail to Lower Bertha falls but were prevented by snow from an avalanche. We hiked along the townsite falls instead and eventually were prevented from going further due to snow.









Despite the remaining snow, spring wildflowers had begun to bloom. God's faithfulness is seen in the changes from season to season.

Springtime in the Mountains

Springtime at waterton national park. The falls at the townsite was rushing but the trail along it was snow covered.










Despite the coolness, where the sun shone, there were wildflowers in bloom!

More summer fun

Our return journey included cycling one evening to see the sunset on the northern tip of Lake Michigan....









...and some history lessons on an island in Lake Superior where Etienne Brule and others were early explorers of our nation









...as well as the buffalo hills in the northern mid-west....










The snowbirds always provide delight for the boys at the local airshow.










Pottery class came early....in July....along the banks of the local river where there is clay! What fun....what a mess! although it's soluble.










Fun with friends during an afternoon of swimming and repeatedly going down the water slide at an outdoor aquatic park. Great way to end the summer fun!

God's mercies displayed

During our visit in Ontario we enjoyed some time at Albert's mom's home. We thank God that He spared Oma during a time of illness.
Much thanks to our dear sis, Joyce who provided such effective and loving care.















The boys kept active and having fun with Uncle Harry & Aunt Janey...

Summer highlights!

We had a delightful summer with many visits with dear family and friends. For some we didn't have to travel, for others, we travelled far but so worthwhile!

June brought joy with Auntie Joyce visiting us in our new location. We hiked the mountains, saw frozen lakes, beautiful wildflowers in bloom and wildlife of various kinds!



































We journeyed to Ontario in late June for a special July 1st Celebration - Geraldine's father turned 80 years! We praise and thank our dear Lord for His preserving grace in his life all those years, despite health concerns and various trials. God has been good - His faithfulness is new every morning.













It was a joy to cook breakfast for my dear father, and what better way to celebrate Canada Day than to have pancakes with fresh strawberries and real whipping cream!

We enjoyed beautiful fellowship that day with so many family..God's goodness and blessings were celebrated as well as a warning not to reject His grace and favour (Deuteronomy 6:1-15). Here are some photos of the generations from those 80 years:


Reina, oldest child



Amy and Sarah with covenant children in their womb (two granddaughters, born in July and August)




....and the other 4 children (and spouses), 21 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren!










The boys had a great time with their cousins.













Enroute to Ontario we enjoyed sweet fellowship with Aunt Reinie & Uncle Rog in Michigan - she had to photograph Albert's car towing the Airstream to prove to colleagues that it really did pull it!










....and dear friends who enjoy sailing...the boys are looking forward to a calm day to sail, Robert!










Although noisy, the boys had a blast with Scottie playing drums and guitars. Thanks for your hospitality Jude & Tone!









Always fun to play with friends of the same age and share great food and drink and conversation with dear friends.









We were blessed also to visit Albert's only surviving aunt from his father's family and uncle. We were able to connect with friends from our previous, brief stay in Chatham.













...and dear friends from our Riverside brethren!

























We praise God for you all and your love shown to us in so many ways!