Here it is another year begins with renewed hope that our World Leaders will act responsibly.

We can do our part by showing respect and compassion to our neighbors, our friends and most of all, our family. If we only do those minimal things, the “ripples” of kindness will touch our ever growing circle and embrace many. This is the message within our control and it does not cost any money.

To all my Blog Readers, I want to thank you for reading my ramblings and my venue for expression of how I feel.

In 2017, I was able to work with a bunch of beautiful people in British Columbia and construct a Baunya that will serve the Volunteer section at Whatshan Lake Retreat and be a “treat” to many who may wish to use it. We have a few “deficiencies” to complete as well as an irrigation and final landscaping.

In Saskatchewan, many of you celebrated 100 years of the Veregin “Dom” with me to provide the assistance to publish Veregin Story 2017. This volunteer effort highlights the history of Veregin (Vereeheena) village as it was created by the migration of 3,500 Doukhobors in 1999 to that area. It is being printed now and will be available at the National Doukhobor Heritage Village. All proceeds are for the NDHV as well as sales commissions for the New Horizons in Veregin. I want to thank all of you who donated your generous time and knowledge. There will be something for everybody and may encourage further research and a Book II.

I also was able to write “My Journey Through a Life of Opportunity”, a Christmas gift for my family who requested same. I did not realize until I started writing, all the interesting events that took place in my life, especially my family that started with my partner Marilyn. Thank you all who contributed to this huge effort.

I purchased a Cadpro program and I want to do design and drafting for small projects concentrating on housing. I had been part of the design team behind much of the 600 units of housing that our company had constructed. Perhaps I can provide some quality efficiencies and suggestions to those who may require same. I am not ready to put my legs up and “disappear into the sunset” just yet.

This year I continue with my treatments and I look forward to many years more in this blog but in the interim, Happy New Year!

Elmer