Merry Christmas from the Erharts
Another year and as we have slowly adjusted to the world’s health environment, we feel blessed that our families have come out of 2022 in good health. We certainly hope the same for you and yours.
Outdoor winter visits with the kids were – well, chilly but they sure didn’t mind, running about with no notice of the weather. Our big winter event the Musical was a go and we successfully hit it off with wonderful audiences for all 5 shows. Dale played one of the McKenzie brothers from the balcony box and Laurel sang with the cast enjoying a few solo lines and lots of fun moments.
After our post show isolation, we launched into our long-planned road vacation with the grandkids and their parents, of course. They in their minivan and we in the ‘Big Glamping RV’. So nice to travel in quiet peace but even more fun at every rest stop or campsite to enjoy the excitement of the children. We were the rolling kitchen, play center, change room, toilet and more. It worked out amazingly and we saw much of BC and Alberta with our final goal and the highlight for the kids, Drumheller and Dinosaurs. A fantastic experience for us all (although Adam could have used a little less calamity in the car while driving).
Following that was a return to our annual pilgrimage (3 km) to camp out for 4 days with the other Island Musicfest fans. A great event anytime and after a 2-year break, it was emotionally heartwarming as well.
Summer was also filled with camping nearby at Air Force Beach with numerous giant beach walks and nature sightings (with Laurel popping home to tend the garden). Our last camping was with our dear friends at our chosen retreat at Salmon Point RV and Marina. Fun and games for all.
September was the start of 3 cruises in a row. Pent up from our usual travel life, Dale was booked to speak on the different ships with one break giving us less than 12 hours at home – that was tricky.
1. We had always wanted to take Laurel’s Mom on a cruise and especially since she lost Laurel’s Dad 2 years ago and hadn’t been on a holiday in more than 10 years! It was a treat to have Vera along with her own fancy cabin and no flights required. Simply drive the Tesla to Joel’s – park, visit and then cruise from Vancouver on the Crown Princess – down the coast for 10 days / 4 stops and return. Great fun.
2. A rapid ferry ride home to drop off Mom, loads of laundry, repack and race off again to Joel’s this time to fly to LAX, and sail to Hawaii (15 days - 4 Islands) on the Sapphire Princess then back across the Pacific to LA. Dale did 9 talks and we met so many nice folks.
3. Our final trip was after a full week at home, then back to Joel’s again to fly to Rome. A 14-day Atlantic crossing to Florida. The Celebrity Apex this time – and it was epic in every way. Crew, food, entertainment, and again, met so many lovely people.
But even with all that fun, it was great to be home, spending a full day at Joel’s, we could really catch up (and catch our breath). Now we are home and just celebrated, Adam’s 39th birthday (What?!!?). Grandkids are cute as ever and always bring us joy and wonderment with their energy, and perspective.
Joel will be coming over for Christmas again, so we are excited to prep for some fun holiday time. Dale’s brother, Bob is doing fine and hopefully we can have him over this year for Christmas. He turns 80 in January! (What??? Again?)
As time marches on, we think of all of you good friends and family that are far away but close in our hearts. Wishing you the very best this Christmas season and hope 2023 will be special for you all.
Take care and stay well. Love and hugs from us both.
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