Family in Peru

Another speaker at the Rotary Conference was a delightful lady from Peru. She has organized a support group for families of children with disabilities in her country. We seem to have so many social services that we do not think about children being abandoned to live on their own on the streets because they have a physical or mental disability. Her organization supports and educates the parents and searches for appropriate work experiences/jobs for both children and adults with disabilities. Her passion and enthusiasm were contagious so I can see why her program has been so successful but there is always more to do. She invited me to visit her and I think I just might.

Canadians in Afghanistan

Dan spoke at the Rotary District Conference in Niagara on the Lake recently. A Canadian Military doctor who had done two terms in Afghanstan was another speaker. His presentation was very emotional. He explained the political situation there very well and encouraged everyone to learn as much as possible about what is happening over there. He felt very strongly that Canadians were making a difference and Canada should continue serving in Afghanistan. He painted a very different picture than what we hear in the media. It is hard to imagine being afraid every day of your life.

Alan in Australia

Alan's company Hatch Engineering has been most supportive. They have provided Alan wiht lots of opportunities. Presently, he is in Australia giving Everest presentations to staff and clients. Naturally he has to do something adventurous while he is there. Since the mountains in Australia are not very high he has decided to go down instead of up. Both he and his brother Adam recently got their scuba license so Alan will be diving around the reefs of Australia.

The Next Chapter in the Family Album

We started this mountain climbing adventure when the children were in their teens. We wanted to do something as a family before the obligations of their future families took priority. We still have one last mountain to climb but the beginning of the next chapter in the family album was announced earlier this month. Alan is engaged to be married to Natalie next year and we will no longer be 5. We will be 6 and we welcome Natalie into our family with open arms. She has a kind heart, an adventurous spirit, and a love of God. They are a good match and even though it is hard for me to give up my position as the most important woman in my son's life I know it is time.

Thank you

My mother always told me that it is not a requirement for someone to do something for you. You do not do something for someone to receive anything in return; the satisfaction of helping someone should be reward in itself. She also told me to acknowledge someone's time and efforts to help me by simply saying "thank you."
Today, when you do something for someone they tend not to acknowledge it with those two simple words. In fact, some people make me feel as if they have a right to my time, property and possessions. I don't expect a parade but I do expect acknowledgement. My time and the things I have worked hard to attain are important to me. I give of them freely - a sincere "thank you" is all that I ask in return.
I must abide by my own words so I want to say "thank you" to everyone for continuing to follow our adventures and support us in so many ways. I will keep you posted about our next adventures.

Recent Family Presentation

We recently did a family presentation in Barrie. Family presentations are rare since it is so hard to co-ordinate everyone these days but I think they are the most enjoyable. Every family member participates and you get a real feeling for what was happening on the mountain and how everyone coped. There are some funny stories and some emotional ones and of course all the fabulous pictures and videos. An old public school friend of mine Catherin and her husband drove up from London to see the presentation which was a pleasant surprise.

Laura on the Radio

Our Everest Expedition has presented us with many opportunities we might not otherwise have had. Laura in particular has been exposed to lots of media attention. This past week she was asked to co-host the B101 Morning show with Jamie Hall while Tara was on holidays. Laura got to be a radio personality. She got to talk to people who called into the show, learn about all the ins and outs of radio and promote our upcoming family presentation on August 13, 2009 at the Barrie Country Club.
Jamie is always lots of fun. He and Tara really promote what is happening in Simcoe Country. They have a very positive attitude and are always friendly and encouraging. Thanks to both Jamie and Tara for supporting our family and for the great job they do on the air promoting local events and talent.