Yesterday we drove to Adams Massachusetts and returned as far as Kingston today. We went on line for a place to stay. St. Lawrence College offered us cheap student accommodation. It’s clean, sufficient, and reasonably spacious. The only draw back is the two single beds separated by the bathroom and the fridge – just not great for cuddling. Tom and I have shared a single bed before. It’s not great for sleeping. Best part of this of course – the price is definitely right.

It was already 7:30 by the time we had moved in. The sweet and handsome young man at the front desk recommended the Wolf Island Grill for a late supper. “The food is great,” he said, “and…the ride on the Wolfe Island ferry is free.”

 We managed the 8:00 p.m. ferry, just in time to enjoy the sun setting over the water. Our unexpected and very first river cruising adventure felt a bit chilly but we had brought our coats. We made a connection with a young couple, two friendly university students. The evening breeze didn’t penetrate the handsome young man’s jeans and long-sleeved sweater. The beautiful young woman was freezing in her jean short shorts and very light sweater. We talked a bit.

Tom, who always says he doesn’t do cold and is my sweet chivalrous gentlemen, gave her his jacket. Gratefully she cuddled into it. We exchanged names and heard about their university programs and hopes for the future. Together we enjoyed laughter and shared experiences. She took our picture. Tom gave her my card, and of course a sales pitch for my books. Our cruise across the St. Lawrence to Wolf Island was fun and romantic.

We sat on the outside patio of the Island Grill and watched the end of the sunset. The waitress was sweet, helpful, efficient and fun. Turned out she had just graduated from Teacher’s College in Kingston, and would be teaching at an International School in Vietnam. Of course we shared our story of son David meeting our lovely daughter-in-law Joanne at the International School in Vietnam.

We enjoyed a gourmet meal. The food looked superb and tasted even better. We would certainly recommend the Wolfe Island Grill. We returned on the ten o’clock ferry, our tummies and our souls definitely well-fed. This delightful evening was a totally unplanned and unexpected treat. Tonight as I sit in my students chair, I am giving thanks to God for a safe journey and for this unexpected blessing. I believe God offers us this kind of joy every day. All we need do is open our eyes, hearts and minds and accept it. Blessings to you all.