This past hockey season my youngest son Cedar, who had never skated before, had a wonderful opportunity to play TimBit initiation hockey.

It was a privilege to have my son be part of this amazing group, it made difference in his life. The coaches and team manager were all volunteers, very reliable and always cheerful. Their approach was always positive and pro-active, encouraging children to have fun and enjoy their hockey experience. The patience was something I admired most about the coaches, 20-30 children ages 5-7yrs at one time is a lot to handle, and the volunteers did it with a smile every week throughout the hockey season.

Their commitment to the community and hockey is outstanding! Thank you to the coaches and team manager for their commitment, dedication, and inspiring the children to become the next Sidney Crosbie.

Shari Caudron

A Surprise

It was only a few months ago. I was giving a workshop to a class of adults with cognitive difficulties about how to make Christmas cards. I had been working there for 3 months at that time and my last day had come.

Sylvia, a student, came up to me and asked me to help her in the making of her card. She told me it had to be as nice as possible because she was going to give it to a very special person that was leaving that day. “Oh really?”, I asked.

“Oh yes. You also have to help me make everyone sign it like you did with Cindy’s birthday card.”, she whispered as if she didn’t want the surprise to get to the wrong ears.

So there I was, sitting with Sylvia and helping her make my good-bye card. It was so sweet to share her excitement in making a surprise for someone. She made sure I was putting the glitters on the right spot and gluing the Christmas tree the proper way. She wanted everything to be perfect.

She finally gave me the card, after we had collected all of her classmates’ signatures. I do believe she never noticed she had told me about my surprise. I didn’t say anything. The only thing I could do was to admire her kind act. Her pride was such that her eyes shone beautifully. It made my own eyes glisten.

As simple as "I love you"

It was a few weeks ago when I started feeling anxious about going back home. I had suddenly realized my one year trip was soon over and I didn’t know how to feel about it. I felt I still had so much too learn here before going back in the comfort of my so sweet home.

The next day, I still felt anxious but didn’t yet talk to anyone about it. I opened my email box and there was an email from my cousin from back home. I opened it. After reading it, my heart magically started flying free again. I had no more worries to bring me down.

The 13 years old sent me the sweetest email telling me that summer was soon and that she was happy because it meant I would come back. It was a simple: “I love you”. I suddenly remembered how it felt to be at home with people I love.

Thanks for that Clara. J

Smiley Sticker

A conversation between Kelly and Mj 2 years ago:
Hey Kelly!
-Yes Mj?
-Can you tell me the story of that smiley sticker you’ve got on your water bottle?
-Yes! It’s great! Ready?…Set…Go!
-I was in Washington with my friend a few months ago and we were laughing, while walking down the street. Than someone passing by stopped and told us: “I love your smile”. He gave us a hug and this smiley sticker and walked away. That’s it.
-Wow that’s a great story!
-Yes yes, told you.
Then, Kelly and I shared a joyful smile and gave each other a hug.
..........The End