The Norm Edition

It’s Thursday and that should mean doors, however I’ve been absent from this feature for a while and blogging in general this summer.  As this day is drawing to a close – at least in my part of the world – I’m offering something different.

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Norm Frampton 3 times this year and this week I’ve had the added privilege of being a guest in his home with him and his charming wife.

So while this post does contain a couple of doors, this is less about the doors and more about wanting to thank the man behind this weekly event.  It’s been such a great week getting to know Norm’s wit and humour.

With Norm while cycling in June. 

You may remember that back in June I was cycling for 4 days on the TransCanada Trail north of Montreal and Norm joined me for the last day of riding.

When he learned I was planning to return in August for 4 more days of riding on the urban trails through Montreal, he offered to host me in his home.

I couldn’t have asked for two kinder, warmer hosts than Norm and his wife.

Mill from 1850 in Terrebonne

The weather was very hot and not exactly ideal for cycling.  Norm was unable to join me on my bike rides, but that didn’t stop us from having lively conversations at the end of the day about everything and anything.

While shrines are not uncommon in this predominantly Catholic province, we were both confused by the cow.  I can only assume it is a nod to the owner’s farming roots.

Old stone farm houses with a sloped tin roof are a common feature of this area. The landscape of the area around Montreal is changing …. modern homes being built next door to old stone farm houses from the 1800s, while across the street there are still operating farms.

Two days of riding in 35C (95F) heat was enough to kick the stuffing out of me, and when Norm suggested a day of kayaking instead, I jumped at the chance.

We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day.

 

 

The gates leading to the private island and former home of Celine Dion.

So while this post is rather light on doors, it’s full of gratitude to the man behind the weekly photo feature … and to his wife who is simply a treasure.  This visit has been more than simply meeting up with a blogger in real life.

This has been about something far more valuable – friendship.