Week One

I've been here a week now, and am just starting to feel a bit settled. Well, not really, but it's better now
that I've finally moved out into the cabin. It's very rustic, plywood and 2X4 studs for walls, and an open
roof truss, but it's cozy (8X12) and private and I have a great view of the lake through the trees.
I've spent a good amount of time with my parents, which we've all enjoyed: going into town, and doing
the cryptic crosswords. Even Dad's been working on it!

Today the workers, Terry and Paul are here, with all their equipment, digging up the outside of the
cottage to replace all the weeping tile and drainage material, to try to get the basement dried out and
save the foundation from cracking any further. It is very damp and musty down there, so I guess it's
time. They also had a look at the septic tank, and told us (and showed us-ugh!) it desperately needs
pumping out. Better late than too late, when it comes to sewage systems.

We have had lots of warm weather and some rain, but it's not he bone-chilling rain of the west coast.
Today it's overcast and breezy, and in the low seventies. Perfect!
Last night we went into McKellar for the Father's Day Dinner at the Community Hall. It was put on by
the McKellar Seniors Association. They put on about 6 dinners a year. They also have card nights and
casino nights and bus trips to various places, as well as donating a good deal of money to local services
such as the medical clinic.The dinner was substantial: chicken or beef, with baked potato and baby
carrots, a great salad and raw veggie selection, and fruit salad and home made squares for dessert.
Coffee, tea, and punch were served for beverages. It was a great meal, and fun to be out with all the
local seniors. I knew there were thousands of stories sitting in that room, and wished I'd had an
opportunity to hear some of them.

Tomorrow M&D are heading home for a few days, so it'll just be me (and the workmen) here until
Saturday. I've met a few new people, but friendships take time to develop. I feel a bit lost and lonely at
times, but I know this will pass as I make more connections here in the area.
The mystery writing workshop I took this past weekend was excellent, and I feel I have all the
knowledge I need to write a great mystery. Now I just have to write it! Wish me luck.

Love. Jacquie