There is something wonderfully healing about being surrounded by nature in the depths of the forest, overlooking a lake.
Yes, it was our annual trip to Arowhon Pines Resort in Algonquin Provincial Park.
If you read my last column, you’ll know we’d had a few problems. The day before we were due to leave, I added to the stress by falling over the open door of the dishwasher, badly skinning my shin and bruising my leg.
It was a stupid accident as moments before I had opened the door. It was very painful and needed first aid, but it didn’t stop our trip. Nor did it prevent me, after a few days rest, still with a heavily bandaged and very sore leg, from kayaking.
One of my great pleasures, to be on a lake as the sun rises, listening to birdsong, slowly gliding along as beavers swim, water lilies open and the call of the loon echoing; it is so peaceful. It soothes the soul and other problems melt away.
Arowhon Pines Resort advertises that “as the world spins faster, we at Arowhon are committed to preserve this oasis of peace, calm and natural joy. It will remain true to your best moments and memories.” Indeed, it does.
It takes a day to acclimatize to no tv, radio or wi-fi to disconnect, but once accepted it’s so quiet you feel yourself being rejuvenated.
The rustic decor, comfortable beds, well equipped and modern bathrooms, welcoming rooms, each with their own small porch and chairs, the smiling and very friendly staff; make Arowhon a treat. The cuisine is culturally diverse, nutritious, and delicious with local vegetables and suppliers offering fresh produce. All breads, jams, chutneys, and dessert are made on the premises and weight gain is inevitable.
After four days we left Algonquin to visit friends at their cottage on Lake Rousseau.
Due to a problem with David’s phone having taken an unwanted swim, our Google maps GPS quit on route. We missed a left turn and after 20 km recognized we were lost.
As we approached the Sequin Municipal Offices, I went in explaining our predicament. My phone had not been paired with our rental car; David’s phone had an accidental swim so was not co- operating. I asked if I could I go on their wi- fi to see a Google map on my phone.
Their chief financial officer, Michele Fraser, having overheard my tale of woe as I spoke to the receptionist, came to the rescue.
She showed me where we should have turned, gave details of landmarks to watch for, then printed out a hard copy of the map for me. What a sweetheart, she saved the day.
We found our way easily, saw our error and came to understand that relying solely on digital information can backfire at times.
Once at our friend’s cottage, we were advised often putting the dunked device into a bowl of rice grains dries it out and restores the data.
We did this and 24 hours later the phone was working. Many cottage owners and boaters know this trick, but should you ever need to, try it.
Now back once more in Cambridge we have looked at the highs and lows of our last few weeks and feel very lucky.
Our car is almost fixed, my leg is slowly healing, minor complaints compared to much of the world.
Dealing with extreme heat, forest fires, flooding, mud slides, persecution, or political unrest is far worse.
Cambridge has problems but they pale in comparison to other places. Once again, I am so grateful and appreciative of our community and feel so fortunate to live here.
