My dad is currently rolling the lawn with his tractor. You know how weird it is for me to look out and see this and not be surprised?

Anyone that knew me growing up knew that I was a city kid. We had a lot and a half in the city that backed onto train tracks. It wasn’t the nicest neighbourhood but I loved that house. I loved all the big windows and the apple, pear and lilac trees. We had an awesome swing set and teeter totter that my dad built for us. We had a small garage that housed countless tools and my dad’s truck, which was only brought out about once a year just to make sure it ran.

We were happy then it seemed, even though my dad worked nearly 20 hour days 7 days a week and me and my siblings had to do the yard maintenance and cleanup. We were a family and it always felt good to come home. We were in the city, saw buses, could ride our bikes to the library or walk to the store.

It’s so odd that we live in the country now.

Okay maybe it’s more ironic than odd that I’m back here again. Moving here wasn’t an easy decision, but it was the right one. James and I wanted to get a house, and with him working in Guelph, we couldn’t afford to live in Cambridge or Guelph without getting a dive – rent was just too high! Instead we made the tough decision of moving out to Clyde and taking back the basement apartment of my parents dream house. Now it’s perfectly natural to see my dad out on his John Deere building or doing something. It’s so easy to just go to the garage and get involved in some project or other. It’s so easy to just relax and just be out here.

Although I love the hustle and bustle of the city, I am certainly appreciating the ability to just relax. I am so looking forward to this summer of parties, bonfires, barbecues and swimming. For my friends who read this blog, the house is always open and welcome to having guests. Feel free to come out and appreciate this little oasis, not too far from the city. Bring your suit and a towel, and be prepared for roasted marshmallows, barbecued meat, random horseshoe tournaments and peace and quiet.

My home, can be your home.