Week 7: Family Visit to Fredericton, NB

I’ve made my way to Fredericton, New Brunswick, to visit my Dad and his wife Flo. It was quite a journey—a long drive to Denver followed by an equally long flight—but I’m here for ten days. Mike was a bit under the weather for the first few days due to his tooth extraction, but he’s on the mend now.  This week has been filled with so many wonderful family visits.

Friday: My first day in Fredericton was spent settling in. I went grocery shopping and then visited the City Club, my Dad’s favorite spot for socializing. That evening, I gathered with my cousin Mickey, his kids and their dog to watch Game 6 of the Stanley Cup finals. Our Canadian team, Edmonton, didn’t disappoint! Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the horses returned home after being evacuated due to a fire, and we received news that guests would be arriving next Wednesday. Mike is in for a busy week.

Saturday: In the morning, I took a beautiful walk from my dad’s place to the Fredericton Farmers Market. The rest of the day was spent relaxing, reading outside, and cooking a broccoli cashew stir-fry for dinner. Mike was still recovering but managed the morning horse feeding duties. Later, he had to put his old medic skills to use when Gwen got a laceration on her leg.

Sunday: We took a long-overdue trip to Dad’s hometown of Sackville to visit family and friends. We stayed with his youngest sister, Aunt Laurice, and Uncle Alain for a couple of nights. We also had dinner at Aunt Charlotte and Uncle Aubrey’s place. That night, I had a bit too much fun with my high school friends, Stacy, Tina and Corey.

Monday: We visited Aunt Pauline and Uncle Louie, and I got to catch up with my cousins Kathy, David, Todd and Shelley. It was wonderful to see everyone.

Tuesday: In the morning we headed back to Fredericton and in the afternoon, I met my friends Line and Lea, who came up from Moncton. We booked a dome cabin at River Run RV resort and spent the night chatting and hot-tubbing under the stars with fireflies around us.

Wednesday: Mike has been busy getting the bunkhouse and the grounds ready for the guests arriving that night, along with extra horse chores. My family time continued with a visit to my cousin Mickey and Courtney’s place, where we gathered with Uncle Tony, Aunt Valerie, Uncle Dougie, Aunt Bonnie, and my Dad and Flo. It was great to have everyone together.

Thursday: I had lunch with my cousin Monica at Gahan House downtown. I enjoyed a very maritime meal of raw oysters and steamed mussels. After lunch, I strolled around downtown, visiting Westminster bookstore and a coffee shop called The Chess Piece.

I’ll be in Fredericton through the weekend, flying out on Monday, July 1st, which is Canada Day. I’m looking forward to the celebrations happening in town over the next few days. Meanwhile, Mike is handling chores, dogs, horses, and guests back at the ranch. I’m sure he’ll be happy to have me back on Tuesday, but it’s always bittersweet to leave my home province of New Brunswick.