A mother and daughter trip to Alberta.

Let's just say I would never attempt going to Edmonton all by myself, no matter how important the occasion! But with Patti on long term disability leave, she had both the time and desire to accompany me, so off we went to take part in two important events. The Samms banquet, as well as a niece's wedding just a week later. This meant we would be staying for over a week and would have time to spend with granddaughter and niece, Amanda. We went on a few shopping trips, and even went to her work place to see just what they do there. They are one of few companies in Canada that make prosthetic eyes, and it was very enlightening. The eyes are actually hand painted and are attached to an existing eyeball, if there is one, and if not, they are attached to an eyeball implant. This means they move with the eye muscles, just like a natural eye. We told her she has a sweet job ... and she knows it too. Thanks to her friend Carey's dad. We only got to see Russ at the banquet, and had a short visit over lunch the following Sunday. He's a fine big boy ... and looks every bit the part of an engineer already, even though he still has a year to complete his university education. During the week we even ventured out as far as Camrose to visit my sister Dorothy and met another one of her great grandsons, while most of us Schalm siblings are still waiting for great grandchildren, there is no lack of them in her family! As usual, we were so graciously hosted by John & Ruth Martz, our long-time friends whose home is always made available to us when we're in Edmonton. The banquet turned out very well, thanks to the Sam board, Patti Green, Carole Argo and others that contributed to making it such a special event. it's always such a pleasure to reconnected with so many of our staunch supporters of the work both in Brazil & Mozambique. We also get to visit with pastor Lorne Fisher, and our home-church family at Richfield Christian Fellowship. We simply bask in the love and support we receive from everyone there. For those of you that were involved, and are reading this ... please accept our heartfelt thanks. Earl is doing just fine in Moz. with Lynn & Dwight, I think they treat him better than I do!! But hopefully he will still be glad when it's time to come home. We are expecting him here on June 30th. sometime in the afternoon. As every good housewife ... I already have a to do list waiting for him! Yes, good husbands are mighty fine to have around ... especially the really handy ones! Patti is feeling somewhat better but still has two back surgeries to look forward to. Fortunately she has a good job and all her benefits kick in. Luke is living with her and Eric now since we had someone in my house till two weeks ago. A painter in town was needing help so he applied for a work permit for him, and till that, arrives he's learning all about painting houses. It's not the kind of work he's used to doing, but says he enjoys it just the same. He still finds time to come over and help me with my work on the computer etc. and of course, I always cook him a good nutritious meal, and for a hungry young man, that's what matters the most!

Carol Argo, Pat & I enjoying Edmonton.

Pat, myself & Ruth Martz.

Amanda, Russell^& Carey at the Samm's banquet.

Me and my family.

Bernice, Rob, Leonard, Dwayne & Erin.

Bernice & her dad Leonard at her wedding.