Dear People of St. John's,

I'm writing this little note upon my return from the Thetis Island ferry.  Not that I was on Thetis Island.  Joan (and Quinn) spent the week-end there involved in a diocesan leadership conference, as well as diocesan council.  In order for me to have a car, I had to pick her up at the ferry.  Once again I waved at Ladysmith as I drove through.

Not too much has happened this past week in terms of things on the homefront.  I still continue my daily routine of being careful with what I am eating, setting some time for prayer and music, and, of course, exercise on the dreaded treadmill.  We are getting to a point now where the weight is a little harder to shed, as anyone who has tried to lose weight would know.

Last week we told you about Mister Syl.  As we are discovering, being as he he is a kitten, he is very much in character.  His latest conquest seems to be the blinds, or my feet.  I now wear shoes all the time!

Now for some news.  This week I had the opportunity to meet with our wardens.  We discussed when and how my return would happen.  I am happy to announce to you that I will return back to the parish on August 1 to resume my ¾ time ministry among you.  In a nutshell, I'll be working 3/4's time, instead of the full time + hours I was working before.  This means I will have two full days off, (Monday and Tuesday) and will return to the parish each week by Wednesday evening.  Each day I am working in the parish will need to have time factored into it for my personal health, which means time to exercise, and time between afternoon and evening meetings to cook a proper meal.  The bottom line is that Dan needs to take care of Dan.

The person returning to you is not broken; rather, in far better health than when you last saw me.  We have to keep it that way, as I plan to be among you a long time!  I am counting on the understanding and support (and Joan says the “nagging” that she won't be there to do.)  

In addition to returning at the beginning of August, I will also be in the parish to worship with you on Sunday, July 11 at 10:00 (just to sit in the congregation), because I will be picking up a friend at the airport following the service.  Then I will also join the parish council for their summer bbq meeting in July.

I've also been able to find a place to live!  Thanks to all of you who found some leads or have made other suggestions.  I will be living in a small furnished suite – it's on a month to month arrangement.  This will buy me some time to find the right long-term accommodation.

As always, my prayers are with you.

Dan +

Note: Harry the monster and Cleo the midget welcome MisterSyl to Ladysmith.  We just proved what everyone says about cat people.  Don't start showing pictures around us!