If You Build It... They Will Come!

Say HELLO to our 2nd Sunday group.
(Ready to tour great architecture on Lake Rosseau)
Taken: October 20th, 2013

What a weekend. Great people, good fun, amazing architecture; not to mention teehee crazy sarcasm & laughter with Gus for eight solid hours Saturday!

Let me back up. Friday offered a couple of surprises and lots of laughs. What can I say, other than I regret staying up way well past my bed time.

Saturday morning had us crossing Lake Rosseau for a much anticipated site visit of a well known Canadian family. I had only ever seen the Architect's vision for this property on paper, so I was giddy about seeing it built. 

As the only Muskoka Builders' Association Member/Sponsor/Guest in attendance, when I stepped on the island, I was absolutely gobsmacked. As I tried to absorb the beauty that surrounded me, I was interrupted as a familiar voice called my name.

Everyone.. This is my friend Chris!
Taken: October 19th, 2013

It was Chris. He was calling from a distance, welcoming me. A friendly hello or not, here's the deal. Chris Madden is amazing at his craft.

As silly as it sounds, it’s almost like he is the Maestro, empowering his team to deliver the perfect symphony. I'm not just saying that because he's my friend, I am going on the record with that because I respect him. I completely understand the process, and he delivered. On an island no less!

Shifting from boat to bus, had me (crawling through the Cranberry Festival and) over to Lake Muskoka for our next site visit. This wasn't as emotional a jaunt, yet a very technical one. The Architect's were like moths to a flame. I just stood back and observed as they admired this project in progress.

I'd talk about my Host, but I never asked if I could, so I probably shouldn't. I would like to share that he's always been supportive of me. In fact, on Friday when I finally got to meet a specific Architect I had admired forever, it was he that formally introduced us. I felt blessed by his accolades. I know they were both heartfelt and sincere.

Respect is earned, and he most certainly has mine. He knows my personal commitment to the construction industry here in Muskoka; we both know how critical the future is. A single minute in his company is time well spent. I have known him for many years, and my respect is unconditional and never ending.

Meet my BFF Bill Ferguson.
The builder that started it all for me in '05.
Taken: October 20th, 2013

So, we finally hit Sunday. I officially became the 'Hostess with the Mostess' for my employer as well as my BFF Bill. The temperature outdoors in the morn was balmy 4C. It was freaking cold, and the boat we spend 4 hours aboard was made of 60 tons of steel.

I wore an undershirt, no leggings. Dress socks, no boots. I stole the Captain's gloves, and I debated wrestling a guest for their earmuffs, as I'm sure I could have taken her. No pun intended, but cooler heads prevailed!!

It was an experience to say the least. Nothing bad, and 1,000% good. WOW is the only word that comes to mind.

For once in my life, without effort,  I lived in the moment. The weekend that started with my phone, ended with my camera. Though my post may not be filled with my regular quips of humour, I am pleased to report that I laughed more on Saturday than I have in years.

Not gonna lie. It felt really great!