Sad and happy

Our renos are coming along.  The contractor was horrified, apologetic and angry with the painter.  Neil didn't know that the painter had a drug problem.  I guess he had been clean for quite awhile.  A new painter is working on finishing up.  We met him and he is working on the 'artsy' bit and sends us photos every day.  Joe decided that we need the sliding door in the bathroom brightened up!  We have a soft spot for artists so we are rooting for Dan.  We wanted Andrew and/or Tiina to paint it but after 20 years, they haven't had time!

In the great scheme of things, that not at all important stuff!

We learned that a friend of Lisa and Cevyn died on the weekend.  Jenn had a drug habit - crystal meth.  We tried to help her - she stayed with us for awhile and was our house cleaner.  When she was really headed down the rabbit hole, we had to make the hard decision to tell her that we loved her but we could not help her if she didn't help herself.  We offered to get the help she and be with her every step of the way.  I did say that I could not see another person I loved die.  When she bailed her boyfriend out of jail and asked Joe to drive her to pick him up at 11 pm, he said no.  That was the last time we saw her.

She was a sweet girl but so very sick.  In happier days, she had worked for Lisa when she had a mobile spa.  They had a great time.  I have been in contact with her mom and will support her as she navigates this horrific time.  She said that Jenn is now with Lisa.  Apparently she had never really come to terms with Lisa's death.  I am so sad for everyone!  

Now for the happy part!  Cevyn's friend messaged me with a photo of an old child's book she found at the second hand store..  Inside the cover was "Lisa Foley" printed in a child's hand.  I was stunned (as she was).  I showed Joe and asked if he remembered the book - he said "Yes.  Our kids had 2 or 3 books in the series".  Okay, now for the interesting part.  Isobel has been Cevyn's friend since they were preschoolers.  We stay with her parents when we visit Ottawa.  Isobel is pregnant with twin girls!  All I could say was that Lisa was congratulating her and letting us know that she is with us.  Coincidence?  I think not.  Lisa grew up in Alberta and the book was in Ottawa.  

As for the holiday, we will be on our own for Christmas.  I am sad that we can't spend it with Andrew and Tiina as we have done for several years.  Of course I would love to spend it with Cevyn and the girls but that is not to be. 

Wishing all a peaceful, healthy, happy holiday.  

Lisa:  Thank you for sending Isobel and us an early Christmas gift.  I know you are with Jenn helping her pass over.  This time of year is never easy.  Eleven years ago today, you were booked to come home for Christmas for the first time after leaving Alberta.  This month sucks, and frankly this whole year has not been a joy.  Give Jenn a hug for us.  I miss you always and love you forever.  Mummy