Spring at The Friends

Spring always brings to mind Charles Dickens’ opening lines to the Tale of Two Cities… “it was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” On the one hand, snow is melting, the air is warmer and birds are singing in the branches of trees. On the other hand, back roads are a muddy soup, lawns and gardens are bare and brown and we are not yet spared from the odd freak snow storm or cold snap.

As gentler weather approaches, it’s safe to start planning ahead for some adventures. In Parry Sound the Charles W. Stockey Centre will be hosting two former Cirque de Soleil performers; in East Parry Sound, Powassan is hosting a Food Summit; and in Muskoka watch for the Muskoka Home Builder’s Association Home and Cottage Show. For those of you with heightened tolerance for adventure, the spectacular Green Living Show is happening in Toronto. Check with local seniors’ groups or CAA to see whether there are organized day trips you can participate in so that you don’t have to face Toronto traffic.

These are just a few of the many local events crowding the April-May-June calendars. Have a look and start planning ahead.

If you are housebound, fling open a window or two on a sunny day, throw some seeds into a pot and put it on a bright windowsill; support the Cancer Society and buy a bunch of daffodils to brighten up your space. Check out accessible transportation options and plan for an outing. Invite a friend for coffee or tea. You are only limited by your imagination!

The Friends daffodils

Caught!  Good eats for a spring morning.

Chickadee nabs Mosquito

We Are Grateful

I’m sure many of you have noticed that our website has undergone some changes which have made it easier for those of you who use the internet to make donations. I am happy to report that this improvement has meant some surprise donations for which The Friends’ organization is profoundly grateful so we are chalking up a “success” for this initiative.

This is not the end of website madness. Keep an eye on www.thefriends.on.ca as we implement even more features to keep you in touch and in the know. We will be adding a weekly blog, videos, and lots of pictures.

Most of all, just know that your support makes good things happen in your community. Many seniors rely on us to defray the cost of transportation and other program expenses. This support means that isolated, frail members of our community are able to participate in social and recreational programs that keep them connected. It provides them with a hot meal, an exercise routine designed for them, and provides respite to their caregivers. Thank you!

The Friends’ celebrates living… living the best life you can regardless of your circumstances.

Dean enjoying his crops at Forest Hill Garden