a list: things I loved about my trip to Canada

I’ve been away from home for a few days, visiting my grandparents in Strathroy, Ontario. Because I lived there as a child and I don’t always remember things as they actually were, I’m always surprised when I visit: These old stomping grounds still hold a piece of my heart. Anyway – I really enjoyed my time up north and thought I’d share a list about my trip…

10. I like crossing the border, especially when the wait with customs isn’t too long. It’s sort of magical – it feels different the minute you step over. Yes, Canada and the U.S. are two very different places.

9. The biscuits. I LOVE Peek Freans. There are lots of different types of cookies to have with your tea – but there is nothing better than these.

8. My Grandparents: I rarely see them. This time I was alone, without my hubby and kiddos, so I was able to spend a little time with them undistracted. And that was special.

7. Mark and Amy. My cousin and his wife are way above par when it comes to hospitality – and I got to stay two nights with them. Vitamix smoothies in the morning and mojitos with fresh mint in the evenings, and lots of good conversation and laughter in between! (this is a photo of me and Amy… sorry, Mark! forgot to snap your photo!)

6. The cream buns. This is extra special and will probably get its own separate blog post, but – Amy, who has taken the time to learn how to make Grandma’s Cream buns, taught me how to make them this week. And I can’t wait to make them on my own at home for a special occasion.

5. These guys. I got to be with my parents. I haven’t had this much time, just me and my folks, in a really long time – and it was amazing to get to be together. My heart needed that.

4. My extended Brubacher family. I love who I am and where I come from ; these Brubachers are a part of me. We are big and loud – and being together is so much fun. I was able to connect with so many people that I love and it was wonderful! (This photo is all of the cousins with their spouses – some of my favorite people on the planet are in this photo. Only my sister, my cousins Ang, Dave and their spouses are missing, oh, and Michael.)

3. Grandma, Celebrating 90. Living far away I rarely get to be there for the little things, let alone the big deals. I’m so grateful I was able to be there for my Grandma’s birthday celebration. It was a very special day.

2. And there’s this. I presented the completed, printed and published family cookbook to Grandma, which is dedicated to her. What a broad spectrum of emotions! I was beyond elated to share it with everyone, completely relieved that we had delivered such a beautiful book, but, a tiny bit sad because my partner in crime, Ang, couldn’t be there to celebrate.