July 1

One of the reasons we chose the church we did, was their ministry to international students.  Over the years, we have gotten to know many international students, both through MCC and through International Students Ministries of Canada.  And we are always blessed by them. 
At this time in our lives, though, it seemed to be harder to get as involved as we have in the past.  Maybe it's our location - we're not in the city, so we need to be very deliberate about it; or maybe it's the fact that we are close to our kids and grandkids, and our lives revolve more around them. 
Either way, it was a privilege to be asked to join in with a pre-planned activity and we each took a vehicle with students to Lower Fort Garry on July 1st.  Admission was free that day, and interpreting our history to internationals gave me a new appreciation for it, as well as reminding me of how much I don't know!!  They ask great questions!

 When I mentioned that the petals of the wild rose were edible, there were a few brave students who were willing to try them.

 Spinning wool for use in knitting scarves, mitts, etc.

Ye wanted to see exactly how the woven beading was done.

Taking a break in the shade.

 Lunch was a picnic with whatever food was brought.  Here is a down-side to the gluten free lifestyle... Einar couldn't try any of their food.

 While I always hope to catch some sun, the Chinese students use every means to avoid the sun.  And they all have beautiful skin as a result.

Trying out an old wooden game... I wasn't very successful!  But it got others trying it as well.

 At the Blacksmith shop... where they once would shoe the horses

Saying good bye to my friend Amanda.

Our day wasn't over when we got home around 6 pm... We picked Rachel & Josiah up an hour later to head to Assiniboine Park to see the fireworks.

 First we had to check out the new playground at the park.  It was pretty spectacular, but this was the only place where we could have a wee bit of space of our own... it was very crowded.  That was okay, because Josiah loved these pipes.

This is a very tired boy, but he sure was enjoying himself in spite of that.  We did manage to get him to sleep before the fireworks.

These are taken again without a tripod.  I did remember the tripod.  But the attachment to it was at home in my camera bag.  One day I'll have it all together!!

HAPPY CANADA DAY!