I'm sure my family can figure out where we are. This is the place where many family memories were made. This is the place where genuine service was rendered. This is the place we would drive for winter retreats. This is the place we would go to get ice cream with Mom and Dad. This is the place that made incredible hamburgers and waffle fries. This was a place of peace and happiness. Yes, that's right. We drove by Portage Glacier Lodge yesterday. Fortunately, we weren't planning to have lunch there. We would have been very disappointed. Apparently, the new owners are keeping the lodge closed during the winter season. When Marilyn and Geri sold out last year, we all knew it would never be the same.
As I reflect on the powerful influence of people, Marilyn and Geri had the power to soothe the soul. Even though they would be busy with customers, they always took time for our family. They always added a little extra whip cream on your cup of hot cocoa. Sometimes, they would give us a meal on the house. Their conversation always showed interest in what was going on in our lives. Their smiles were radiant and welcoming. Hugs were even given on occasion. Marilyn and Geri made you feel at home. We will miss them. Portage will never be the same. I am grateful my Mom and Dad started our tradition of going there many years ago. I treasure traditions. Now, I guess it's time to start some new traditions. Any suggestions?
By the way, I think it's important to take a moment and ponder on our service to others. Are we genuine in our service? Do we show interest in the conversation with others? Do we only talk about ourselves or do we ask a lot of 'find out' questions? Do we smile and welcome others into our hearts and homes? Do we give hugs on occasion? Do people feel at home when they are with us?
How do you want to be remembered?
1 comment:
Dad and I were traveling home from Prince Edward Island (PEI) yesterday after speaking in a little branch there. We took the "long" way home, of course and we were kind of in the middle of nowhere when out of the blue I wondered out loud "what changes had occured at Portage Lodge since Marilyn sold it. We sure must be on the same wave-length. That place really is full of great memories...they would fill the page and then some.
I love traditions too and Dad and I carry on the "what's around the next corner" one, sometimes to the extreme. Another random thought yesterday was "who in the world would know where we are if we got lost or.." We are such wanderers on this mission and have so many different assignments that I don't think anyone would miss us for quite a while if we disappeared. Kind of a sobering thought.
Anyhow, love the post. Love the place. Love you all. And see you sooner than later.
Love, Mom
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