Milestones and Memories

May 4, 1998. The day that changed our lives….The Canterbury House was ours!! We were handed the keys, and we were off and running.  I don’t think either one of us ever imagined how wonderful this journey would be and how quickly the years have flown by.  Here we are starting our 15th season!!!

We have had 14 seasons of meeting wonderful, wonderful (I know, I sound like Lawrence Welk) people from every corner of the world. We have travelled vicariously through our guests.  Countless conversations, giving us insight on how others live, cultures, etc.  We have had couples stay with us, get engaged and  married.  We have even had wedding ceremonies in our living room!  So many pictures of first, second and sometimes third babies being sent to us.  Many of our guests children were young when they started staying with us (you know, grandparents happily babysitting, while mom and day have a little getaway).  Now, we hear about the colleges they have picked or weddings being planned!  So many milestones and memories.  We have been blessed with making many new friends from all over the United States and the world.  Pretty cool!!

We ex-New Jerseyites learned very quickly what big snowstorms were AND how valuable the snow blower and roof rake are.  We now know what a long, winter can be like.  Best of all, we have gotten to live and work in this New England quintessential village!  Woodstock is a terrific community that cares.  Whether you live here or are just visiting, you have an amazing feeling of graciousness, kindness and caring.  Summers are magnificent and words can’t describe the beauty of the fall foliage.

Now, I would be lying if I said that there weren’t days that we wanted to pack our bags and run REAL fast.  You know, the days when toilets overflow, washer stops working and there are six more loads of towels to wash by the next day!  Another favorite….no electricity in the winter.  Even a damaging tropical storm (yep, THAT was a REALLY BAD time).  We have experienced a broken heel, knee replacement, and a bit of breast cancer.  (okay, Bob is looking over my shoulder saying……not him, me!!)  I had all of these things happen to me, but Bob was certainly affected…..he was “Mr Caregiver”.  Through it all, our Canterbury House guests, were instrumental in getting us through all of our ups and downs.  Of course, we have tried to keep a sense of humor.  Laughter always helps, right?

I think you get what I am trying to say……What a wonderful life we have had so far, and look forward to many more years on this journey.  We thank all of you for touching our lives, and a vault full of memories. and we feel honoured that you chose The Canterbury House to experience Woodstock and in fact, Vermont.

For those of you who have visited us once, or several times, we look forward to seeing you again.  For those of you who are considering coming to Woodstock….we can’t wait to meet you.  Happy Anniversary to us!!