Dear Canimites,
Robins, thrushes, Juncos and other passerine birds seem to be coming out of the woodwork lately.
Sandhill Cranes were reported on March 26, and the Trumpeter Swans have been probing the mouth of Bridge Creek since March 28. The still air of the early mornings is now filled with the crystal notes of bird song.
Community club
Ralph Fossum gave a spirited presentation on wills, estates, and “all matters legal” needed to keep our late-in-life affairs tidy, to 15 club members at Margo's Cabin recently.
He spiced his delivery with interesting and hilarious anecdotes, drawn from his lengthy experience, and fielded all manner of questions as during the presentation. The meeting went well past the two hours allotted for it.
It became obvious quickly that passing on an estate can be minefield if the proper preparation is not done.
However, one's arrangements need not be complex, even in cases of blended families with children from different spouses. There are relatively simple conventions to handle what appear at first as complex problems.
Ralph said he enjoyed the time, and that it "was a treat to be there," and that he would be happy to answer follow-up questions. He declined the honorarium offered, and the club was then pleased to make a $100 donation to the Ayzac Wilson Fund in Ralph's name.
Japan campaign
Hisako Arai has established an account at the Royal Bank and is encouraging local donations for relief efforts in Japan.
The organization she has selected is called Nippon Hahaoya Taikai (Japan Mother's Convention). Hisako says it is a grassroots women's organization, which has chapters in every prefecture of the nation, including Miyagi, within which the hard-hit city of Sendai lies.
The group's focus has been a variety of mother's issues, such as education and health care. They are now collecting money in Japan and funnelling it to the village level where it can be applied to the most critical needs. Hisako's efforts will support their own.
Hisako says it is impossible to buy insurance to cover natural disasters in Japan because of the number that strike the country. Furthermore, while the government replaces infrastructure, it does not assist people financially on a personal level. Many tens of thousands have lost everything with no hope of recovering anything from the past.
There is a deadline of April 30 for donations. Hisako asks that if you are interested, you give her a call at 250-397-2364 for more details, at which time she would be more than happy to answer any questions you might have.
Crib news
The crib warriors will make their last stand of the season on April 12 at the usual battlefield.
Margo Wagner has fought her way clear of the pack but is being pursued by Don Hewitt. Stay tuned for the results of this epic.
Dinner out
The Community Club dinner is on March 16 at the Edelweiss in Lac la Hache at 6 p.m.
All are welcome. Phone Jean Reynolds at 250-397-2773 if you have any questions or to book a spot.
Book club
The book club has rescheduled its meeting on The Brain that Changes Itself to May 10 at Leona Hurrell's home.
They will be discussing The Shack at the home of Tryphenia Belli on April 18. Newcomers are welcome.
Phone Sheila Hart for more details at 250-397-2645. Next year's selections will be finalized at these two gatherings.
That's all for now. Please call me with your news. Until next time, here's wishing you many blessings.