Greetings! I hope you all enjoyed your August long weekend whether you travelled, had a stay-cation at home or if you opted to take part in Haying in the 30’s celebrations near Mallaig.
I was fortunate to get an opportunity to spend the weekend at a family reunion (my mother’s side) at the campground just outside of Meota, Sask. For those of you that are curious of where Meota — a small village with a modest population of over 300 people — is located on a map, it is situated roughly 30 minutes northwest of North Battleford.
The campground really is the most notable feature of this community. Actually the name of Meota derives from the Cree phrase Meotate, which means “a good place to camp.”
It was decided last year that this campout would be a new annual tradition for the family in order for us to have an opportunity for all of us to see each other. Prior to these campouts, our family usually gathered at my Mama’s (a.k.a, grandma) house in Regina for any type of family festivities. Unfortunately, she passed away two years ago on July 28.
Mama had seven children, with my Mom being the second youngest. It is fortunate that many of the Miller clan is able to come out to take part in the campout. Every year, our family finds a way to make brand new special memories while we take part in games, chat around the campfire and enjoy meals together.
This past weekend was about more than relatives catching up with each other though – it was also a celebration of my parents’ 25th wedding anniversary. We ended up enjoying cake with each other to toast their silver anniversary. Later this week, my sisters will give them our gift, which is a photo and letter scrapbook.
My Mom and Dad are both usually uncomfortable being at the centre of attention, but it was nice for the family to have an opportunity to celebrate their great love.
I am tremendously fortunate to have them both as my parents. They have always gone the extra mile to help my sisters and me. I have told both my Mom and Dad that they truly are, along with God, the No. 1 MVPs in my life.
Really, it should be a given that all parents are heroes to their children, but unfortunately that is not the case. It is really tough to see the stories plastered on websites about abusive homes where children are devoid of love, happiness, opportunity and security.
This past weekend was a great reminder of how truly lucky I am that God smiled on me by giving me two amazing parents.
