I took myself out for the day to celebrate the passing of 2 years since I fell and was quite hurt. I remember thinking to myself during that horrible night, as I sat in a wheelchair for 8 hours, waiting to be admitted, that "one day this will just be a memory" over to myself. And I also am grateful that I was able to return to my career as a nurse, when the odds were against it.
Last year, on July 28 I took myself to a nice restaurant, had a couple of bellinis and bought lovely treats at the grocery store next door.
This year I took myself out of town. First stop, at 9 am to beat the crowds, was Coombes (see nittineedles photos from last year) where I sipped a coffee, wandered through the little shops, bought some brightly coloured chopsticks (big spender), then had the most incredible burger. Just to die for.
Next stop was Qualicum Beach, where I spent a couple of hours at The Old School House, which is now an art gallery and studios. I visited with all the artists and swapped stories and watched them paint. One artist invited me to a collage workshop this fall. Then I wandered through this cute little town which has banned all chain stores. Only small businesses need apply at this exclusive little retirement community. I stopped at a shop, owner operated by a native lady and bought myself my present. It's a Kwakiutl nation native carving and just beautiful. I recognised the style and name on the back of the family that carved another piece of native art I have.
Next stop was Parksville where the thrift shop had closed 3 minutes previously. So I had to settle for a chocolate milkshake, then back home I went.
At home, I pulled my easel out of the basement and into my recently-converted son's-bedroom-now-art studio and set a painting-in-progress on it.
It was a very mellow day.