The uncertainty of Time

I had 27 hours in Ottawa and barely 4 were spent with my friend KPF. The amount of time does not matter; I am glad I had any time at all. I haven't had one-on-one time with KPF since the last one many years ago. After that, I got married and had the boys. I got busy and visits with KPF became less frequent and more family oriented. Last year, when I got the note reminding me about KPF’s CF, I knew I had to make an effort.

Time is finite for each one of us. How we spend our time defines who we are and, whom we spend our time with also makes us who we are. So, this year, I decided to spend time with people who matter to me and people who add value to my life. Why waste precious time?!

Since KPF is in Ottawa, this wasn't going to be easy. But I wanted to make the effort. Part of me, as mentioned already, was terrified. However, I got over it and got myself ready. My only concern was that I am so out of touch with my friend that I wouldn't know how to have a conversation with him! Yes, I am afraid of awkward silences.

All my fears were for nought. I had the best 4 hour conversation ever...with moments of fun, laughter and seriousness. We actually caught up with one another in terms of our lives. I realized that we lasted almost 20 years because we are like each other. Both of us were able to go back in time and remember quite a bit. Predictably, I remembered more than KPF! Not that it was a competition or anything!

The most poignant moment came when KPF had to self-administer an IV drip. He was like hope you are OK?! I wanted to say that I was cleaning up after a couple of pukey boys a couple of weeks ago; however, I kept it a little palatable by mentioning the many dirty diapers I changed in my lifetime!! For sure, anything is better than that!

At the end of the day, Life is not entirely easy. I looked at my friend - so strong and so fragile. My friend who has always been there for me! My world is a better place because of him in it. I am so glad I got the 4 hours with him. I would make the effort again even if for 4 minutes!

Meanwhile in Toronto...

Hans cried Friday morning as he missed his mom. He cried himself into a fever. Lucky for him and me that he was with my mom! My mom did not let me know she had a sick child on her hands and the sick child did not know he was in the best hands possible!

Hans and I survived...we only did because we are fortunate enough to have some amazing people in our lives. And I hope we are fortunate enough to have them for a very long time.

...Back in Ottawa, I got the following accomplished in the leftover 23 hours:

Definitely did not sleep like a queen!

However, I ate like a champ! I actually took pictures of my meals; only the ones I ate by myself. It was a very short time I was gone, but it felt like I got a lot done. I also went sightseeing; looked at our Parliament buildings with renewed enthusiasm. I took a picture of William Lyon Mackenzie's statue for ASid. Did some personal shopping and felt a little selfish. Loved how I could hear both English and French everywhere I went. Last but not least, I enjoyed the solitude!

Right now, I am happy to be home! Dorothy said it best: There’s no place like home.

Addendum: I feel a little dumb, but I have to make this correction. Years from now, ASid would be disappointed in me if I didn’t admit to this mistake. I actually took a picture of “William Lyon Mackenzie King” and not “William Lyon Mackenzie”…apparently they are 2 different men!