Oh Canada

Kenora Island, Lake of the Woods, Ontario Canada.

The island is a 13 acre rock. The main cabin has a kitchen, one big room with a stone fireplace and a 1950's era white gas heater. A few other cabins in various states of character sit near the outhouse. A decoy and boat shed still looks over an edge. An old boat house - pier system was taken down 10 years ago.

My last visit to the island was in 2001. I went reluctantly. To go meant missing one of Aaron's football games. It was a tough choice but there was to be more games. There were, but not as many as I had expected.

Cell phones were highly discouraged 7 years ago. I broke the ban on contact with the outside world in order to check in with Aaron after the game. I remember standing outside on top of a rock on the rock to get reception on a crystal clear star spangled night. Aaron was excited. He had played well. I don't remember the details but I do remember giving the report to the guys in the house.

Eventually Aaron was to make the trip with us. I have an ache in my heart tonight thinking about returning to a place where I once chose over being with my son. Kenora is one of my Jezebels. How will I feel when I see the spot where I stood to get a clear connection to Aaron? Maybe the rock on the rock can connect us one more time.