John van Gurp

The cottage is taking shape… we’re more or less done for the year with the exception of a chimney. The old Franklin fireplace we dragged down there is going to live outside now and I’ll connect a small CSA approved stove I bought a few years ago. It’s safer.

I need to finish boxing-in the remaining wiring that is exposed below five feet from the floor before NS Power will approve final connections. In the meantime we have three live outlets and rely on extension cords, which is fine for the time being. It will be much better to have it finished though. The deck is done now and we’ve beed enjoying it very much. During these warm days it’s the place to read, eat, nap and warm up after our many swims.

My brother Gerald and daughters Emily and Marisa, and sister Susan have been visiting for a few days. We all made it down to my sister Hetty and brother-in-law Ward’s place on the weekend with sister Carolyn and also my whole family for a welcome get together with good eats and lots of laughter. We visited the studio of Geoff Butler as well… what an amazing artist! It’s all very high quality time.

See my latest Halifax Herald blog entry about an episode at the cottage…

Cheers,
John

This is from June 23. Note the first company. I better put a railing on the stairs!

Very sadly Heather’s father died yesterday. It was expected however, and he died quietly in the presence of his family. I have known him since around 1978 and have a great many fond memories of his stories of life on the prairie homestead and through his love of family.

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