What a month it was. So much happening.
We start into the month with the recovery efforts of the Venezuelan 7.2 earthquake. An estimate counts at least 5,000 people or more may have died. There was also the ‘elbows up bridge’ issue to which the invited quests refused to come (June 12) unless they received a ‘better deal’. Some what like the biblical parable of the invite to a banquet where the special quests had al kinds of excuses as to why they could not attend. (see Gospel of Luke chapter 14 verses 15- 24) Too bad, we had our own opening party on July 24, after all we paid for the whole thing out of our own (tax payer) pockets.
First, a nation’s birthday, counting 159 to a washed-out celebration but much civil togetherness. Approval of a proposed house renovation plan for the prime minister residence at 24 Sussex Drive in Ottawa after years of controversy, a sign perhaps for the future of togetherness, on the same page, with leadership and sharing for all Canadians equally from coast to coast? This could be nice!
Heat and fires in Europe and elsewhere in the world causing many deaths in Europe especially France by drowning, people trying to cool off. Climate warming lessons, the hard way!
The war in the Middle East, the USA (Operation Epic Fury) against Iran (no nuclear bombs) causing the blockage of oil transports in the Hormuz Strait, and affecting our gas prices (over $100.00US per barrel for crude) and over $1.90 per liter at the Canadian pumps. The war was to end a few weeks after it started (February 28) we were told by he Secretary of war, but we are now into our 5th to 6th month. This USA battle with Iran dragging on. Lots of bragging and noise but no end. A stubborn digging in. Shame to all and a frighting reality check of the world’s claimed leadership minds.
In Canada a new agreement is reached to build a pipeline to the BC coast. Are we finally piloting our qwn ship and finding a way of co-operating?
The war in the Ukraine is ongoing with drones and rockets and the Gaza/Hamas question always in the news. People are dying. When will we ever learn?
The FIFA world cup in soccer (the beautiful game) that started in June with 48 teams, finished with a great battle between reigning champion Argentina and Spain, with Spain the winner. A marvelous times of TV watching all the players compete. Cabo Verde team, population less than half a million, nearly reaching the knock-out phase, the smallest country but a big surprise. Toronto and Vancouver were some of the three country (USA, Mexico and Canada) host cities. The hope for Dutch participation was a bit of a let-down. Then after, the FIFA success took a bad turn, the leader trying to franchise the game, ran into a moral block and strong put-down. Shame and greed were evident.
Forest fires are burning in northern Ontario and more across the country. At least 180 in Ontario alone causing people to flee with some losing their home and entire village to the dreadful fires. Premier Ford says the province is doing what it can, the affected regions say there was gross unpreparedness on the part of the government. The man south of the border says more tariffs for Canada’s goods are warranted, if Canada can not stop the smoke from drifting over the border. Our air quality is bad for several days, so we stay inside as much as possible.
The middle of July sees a heat wave hitting our cities and towns with over 37 C degree temperatures. We are thankful for air-conditioning.
Several local cultural events take place in the region with strong participation at the Burlington/Hamilton beaches. A perfect place for family outings and picnics.
Our church has hired a new pastor. We are looking forward to his ministry and exploring new ways to serve our community. Christian faith and community wellbeing is not always a mutual goal in our pluralistic society. The shooting death of two teenagers in our near municipality is a wakeup call for all to note that there is sickness in our communities that is not all physical but also a spiritual battle for honesty and moral Christian civil compassion values. Our twice a month men’s group at church get-togethers discussed these topics, among others: at the latest we talked about old times, with recent news on low-income housing and homelessness and how to welcome strangers to our worship services.
The grand-kids are enjoying summer camps and some family members are planning holidays in Europe and a trip to Africa. We are enjoying a visit from our 3rd great grand son Francis. What a blessing. A combination BBQ birthdays takes place in our backyard and the hamburgers etc. are a big hit. My wife and I enjoy two weeks of same year birthdays each year before I split off for my 85th. Still can’t believe we are together after 60 years. Ride the Brantford trail with my friend and almost ran out of power on my ebike. A great ride, worth a tour. Good exercise.
Received sad news from Edmonton that my sister-in-law passed away suddenly. One week there was a diagnosis of liver cancer and the following week she left us. A shocker, the youngest daughter and only 2nd death so far in the related family, echoing the sentiments expressed in Genevan Psalm 103 verse 6. (Dutch 1967 version). A reminder for us all.
Two birthday parties, one from our small church group and from my wife’s family round out the month.
By August first, we will have new neighbours. We have a great neighbourhood community.
So we go for one more ebike ride on the last day of the month and stop at Wendy to pickup two vanilla frosties, a summer special $1.00 each. A great treat on a warm day!
Prayerful sadness and blessings, thoughtful and thankful hearts and this below what makes it count!
JS August 3, 2026
Top photo: Sam Lawrence Park 2009
On the Road 