Here we are, half-way through summer 2024. There are still sunny vacation days left to think about and where we might travel for a little excitement and change of pace. For me, this summer’s excursions were fun and not far from home.
Being a lover of Shakespeare, dear friends treated me to the Stratford Festival where we saw the delightful, “Twelfth Night”. Although it was staged in modern dress, we were whisked away to another era of fantasy and revelry. It was a perfect day in late May to leave the city and spend time with loved ones in the theatre and parks of beautiful Stratford, Ontario.
Sister Jean on the farm
A month later, I enjoyed an annual family gathering called “Moylan Mayhem” on my nephew’s 172-year-old farm near Seaforth. My great grandfather officially leased the land in 1852 from the Canada Company. Now, my nephew, his wife and their four beautiful daughters represent six generations having lived on the homestead. There is no better place to gather for a weekend with our tents and trailers to reminisce about days of yore, present times, and future plans.
Next on my leisure list, was a glorious time at a cottage near Camlachie, only an hour’s drive from London. (Pictured below, Sister Florian, and a stunning Lake Huron sunset) Amid the rest and leisure, there was a visit to the well-known Victoria Playhouse in Petrolia. It was uplifting, and delightful to attend the original cast and crew presentation of, “Sweet Soul Music”. Some were inspired to sway and dance in the aisles to the time-honored sounds of Motown music of the ‘60’s. After the performance, I was thrilled to meet one of the fine co-producers who was a student at Assumption High School in Windsor when I taught there in the 80’s.
Finally, back at home, I realized that every venue I visited was no more than an hour’s drive from home. Unaware of it, I was day tripping! What a wonderful, economical way to experience the sights and sounds of summer. I can rise early, pack a delicious lunch, hop into my car and enjoy day tripping.
You too, might get the day tripping bug. Think of all the interesting places near home that you might want to visit or revisit at leisure. There’s no need to hurry. You can return home and sleep in your own bed or stay overnight or for a week, knowing that home is only an hour away. I’m planning my next day trip to Huron County Playhouse in Grand Bend. Maybe I’ll see you there!
-Sister Jean Moylan, CSJ