Dear Faithful Companion,

There is a certain magic in moments of pure presence—moments when the noise of the world fades, leaving only the crackle of a fire, the laughter of dear friends, and the serene beauty of nature. As I write this, I am blessed to be in at traditional somewhat luxurious log cabin tucked away in the Kawartha Lakes, near Peterborough. The snow outside lies for the most part untouched and pristine, its brightness softened by the gentle glow of the early evening. A weekend at a cabin has become a cornerstone of tradition, as every year, our “gang” gathers for an extended long weekend. These few days are dedicated to unwinding, disconnecting from our everyday routines, and reconnecting with the simple joys of life.

It feels like time slows down when we step into this space. Jesse, as always, has chosen the perfect spot: a cabin with a real indoor fireplace, enough room for everyone, and of course, an outdoor hot tub. These have become our three essential pillars for a getaway—elements that turn a good weekend into an unforgettable one. From mornings spent sipping coffee by the fire to evenings of hearty meals, games, and storytelling, this weekend is all about being present and savoring each other's company.

There’s something profoundly grounding about this place. The unmistakable scent of woodsmoke lingers in the air, mingling with the earthy aroma of pine and the crispness of winter. The sound of the fire crackling in the living room brings a warmth that no central heating system can replicate. Sitting beside it with a glass of wine (Bordeaux of cours) in hand, listening to friends share their stories, I am reminded of the joy of human connection. These moments are not just fleeting pleasures—they are the threads that weave the fabric of a meaningful life.

As we’ve moved into our late 30s and early 40s, I think we all recognize the importance of time spent without screens or distractions. There’s beauty in the simplicity of rustic log walls, the snowy landscapes outside, and the freedom to explore what this country offers. Each year, I deepen our appreciation for these getaways—not as a luxury, but as a necessity.

Though I cherish the social aspects of this tradition—the shared meals, games on the living room floor, and countless laughs—I also find joy in solitude. This cabin offers quiet corners on the second floor to retreat to, like the window seat where I’m perched now. Gazing out at the snow-covered trees, I lose myself in the crisp stillness of nature and the pages of a good book, even just for a hour a day. In these moments, I feel my perspective shift, as if the noise and clutter of daily life are gently falling away.

It’s weekends like this that help reset my outlook. They remind me of what truly matters: meaningful connections, the beauty of the present moment, and the gratitude I feel for having someone like Jesse by my side. His love for adventure and his commitment to curating these experiences make them even more special. I feel blessed to share these moments with him, to grow alongside him, and to explore the wonders of life together.

Mark Black once said, “Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax.” These words hold a quiet truth, reminding me of the importance of stepping away from the hustle of daily life. In these moments of stillness, I find the space to reflect, recharge, and return to life with a clearer perspective. It’s not just about leisure—it’s about restoring balance, fostering gratitude, and embracing the profound joy in life’s simplest pleasures.

Verbum Ultimum: Let the fire within burn as steadily as the one before me, casting warmth, light, and connection into every corner of life. In the quiet moments between laughter and the crackle of the fire, I find clarity. The stillness of nature and the warmth of camaraderie remind me of life’s greatest treasures. These moments of pause don’t merely reset my perspective—they deepen it, helping me appreciate the journey and the people who walk it with me.

Until next we meet, with ink as my witness and virtue as my guide.
JCB