One insight that the pandemic has provided me is that in the process of missing everything I could not do, I almost missed what was available right in front of me. That was never more evident than last week.
We are scheduled to travel in August and a good amount of my focus and planning has been on that, so when my daughters invited us to share a few days at a cottage they had rented in Georgian Bay, I accepted as a nice distraction. Instead I had three wonderful days of family vacation that will never be equalled by any travel abroad.
The setting was gorgeous, the weather unpredictable and the company stellar. We indulged in grilled chicken and vegetables on the barbeque accompanied by a chilled can(s) of local beer. We slept in late and passed a windy cold day playing card games. When the weather improved we explored the sound on seadoos, wondering at the beautiful rugged shoreline of the Bruce Peninsula. Evenings were spent huddled around campfires, roasting marshmallows for s’mores and gasping in delight at our very own fireworks display.
I didn’t care that my hair wasn’t combed, my teeth brushed or that I was in pajamas until noon. What I did care about was watching my granddaughter collect beach glass and learn about the gnomes that supposedly live in the woods nearby. I didn’t care if I won at euchre (although I did) as the joy was in playing.
That time was not a distraction but was instead the best part of my travels in the past year. 
Our little slice of heaven here in southwestern Ontario is only part of what Canada has to offer. As a travel destination I have talked to many others who already have or are anxious to visit the True North. I strongly encourage it. We are generally as nice as they say, will apologize for anything we feel may have offended you, and consider you family as soon as we meet.
Whether you are eating lobsters in Nova Scotia or salmon on the west coast there is delicious everywhere. And yes, poutine is a must. Don’t be afraid to try any of the creative variations that thrive in local restaurants. Also, there is a reason why maple syrup is on practically everything – it is delicious.
Include in your itinerary a stop at a microbrewery or winery for a tour and tasting. Buy local fruits and vegetables directly from the farmer at road side stands (but have cash handy as they all seem to work on the honour box system). Forgo the hotel chains in favour of a local Bed & Breakfast or get totally immersed with a vacation rental.
Enjoy the untouched natural beauty of our forests, beaches, waterfalls and lakes. Hike, fish, swim and boat to your heart’s content. And if you love golf, don’t forget your clubs as we have some beautiful courses that will entice you to play a few rounds.
Visit some of our great cities and enjoy the art, culture, food, festivals and events they have to offer. It is fun to tour a city only to discover that one of your favourite television shows was filmed there as Canada is the stand in for many popular American produced shows and movies. Get tickets to a sporting event and cheer along with other rabid fans. Spend some time shopping for vintage clothing or antiques, discovering folk art or locally made crafts.
Spending more time travelling throughout Canada, whether we are driving to a nearby cottage or flying three provinces over, is an enriching experience. For that matter, appreciating your own home town by viewing it as a tourist might, can be just as enjoyable.
Travel is a state of mind more than anything.
Take advantage of retail at this time of year to stock up on maple leaf emblazoned shirts, luggage tags, pins and flags. Wear your Canadian pride when you travel overseas, as we are well received and respected.
What beautiful family memories! The best!