It seems that the only time I can write is while I am sitting in a departure lounge waiting to take to the skies. Today I am flying home to see my parents in Holyrood. I say home but really I am living in Ottawa but was born and raised in Labrador City. Proud son of the Big Land! But, I did live on the Island for 22 years...some good and some not so good; all a significant portion of my memories. Newfoundland and Labrador grows to become a part of you. A collection of memories, shared experiences with thousands of other residents a beauty unsurpassed and an aching need to return.
And, like all other expatriates living around the world, I return home as often as possible. Under the right circumstances I would make it permanent and stay home for good. I remember reading an article from a Calgary paper with a quote that sums up Newfoundlanders and Labradorians everywhere. "You can tell the Newfoundlanders in heaven, they're the ones that want to go home."
So here I sit in an airport lounge, as I am sure you all have, waiting to go home. Waiting to catch the open arms of family missed, see the smiles of long time friends and smell the salt air once again. It doesn't matter to me if it rains or snows or the sun splits the rocks, I am home! Mom's cooking, dad's jokes, barbecues with friends and visiting with relatives! Soon I will board my plane to complete my journey.
And for a week I will be home.
Talk to you soon...
