I've arrived!

Well, it's done. We have all arrived safe and sound at Fort William--last Saturday, July 12.

Like other places, we were greeted formally with gun blasts and ceremony. Old Fort William really knows how to do this big though. We were paraded up to the Great Hall, where photos were taken, and we realized we had finished.

Celebrations included both a dinner and concert that evening, and a closing brunch the next morning. Stories and thank you's were exchanged. Then we all dispersed, each going our own ways. It was remarkable to see two other big canoes on their trailers in Dryden Sunday afternoon--and even more fun to see one of them on the road near Lacombe, AB on Tuesday morning. We are still connected despite the dispersal.

Like a theatre group, this community has been temporary. While connections might well be continued among some, the brigade will never be re-formed. It existed for a particular purpose only, and that has been fulfilled. We have celebrated the life and times of David Thompson. I have rekindled my love for canoeing, and intend to continue that. I have made new friends and reconnected with old paddling pals. Again, I hope to keep those connections live.

It's been quite the trip--more a journey than the destination.