Crossroads

September 10, 1992

Hawaii 1994

In March 1992, at a legal conference in Ottawa, Ontario, I met the man who would become my husband. I had just accepted a  position in Ottawa,  after the Oka crisis as Co Director of  the newly formed Indian Claims Commision (ICC) Legal and Research Department.  My intention was to give it 3 years.  Over 25  years later I am still here.

I didn't know it at the time, but I was at a crossroads in my life. There are times in our life, whether we are aware at the time, that change the course of our life. Did I think at the time that I was at a crossroads in my life? Nope. I didn’t see him again or talk to him until eight months later. On September 10^th we had a meeting at my Toronto office and we had our first date. He must have liked and trusted me because he gave me a key to his house after our date.

After September 10^th things moved quickly and a few short weeks later, on November 11^th, we were married. There was a small group of very close friends to help us celebrate the occasion.  We had a lovely ceremony at the private chambers of Justice Roy McMurtry and lunch at Winston's restaurant with a few partners from his firm. Later we drove to Chateau Montebello,Quebec and stayed for four days, our perfect mini honeymoon. 

In 1992, I  chose  love. 

This year is our 29^th anniversary. The man I married is still the same man that I fell head over heels for in 1992. He dislikes being told what to do and he is understanding, open, and incredibly compassionate. I am so blissfully happy. And I am glad I opened my heart to him.

We have an incredible son, Andrew who gives us so much and a lively puppy, Chewy. 

I barely knew him and yet , not to sound like a cliché, my soul recognised him.  As I reflect, I think of the words that best describe our whirlwind romance, not listed in any order:

·      Curiosity

·      Secrecy

·      Fare Exchange Bistro

·      Rings Shopping on Bloor St

·      Excitement

·      Comfort

·      Happiness

·      Discovery

·      Trust

·      World Series Blue Jays

·      Moshi pork Chinese takeout

·      Beaches

·      The smell of wood burning in the fireplace

·      Long  walks at the Beaches    

·      A surprise catered duck dinner with poached pears for dessert