My friend, Andy

As many of you know, the James family are my second family and the head of that family is Andy. The above photos were taken a couple of years ago when Andy was given a surprise party weekend to celebrate his 60th birthday. Friends and family from across the ocean (England) as well as across Canada and the US came to join in on the celebrations. On the Sunday morning at his church, Andy made introductions to his congregation at Chestermere Christian Fellowship - I will say it was very touching that he introduced me has the 8th James kid. Very special indeed.

For those who don't know the story - it all began at Dorion Bible Camp when I was 7 yrs of age (30 years ago in July) - he was the Camp Director. Through the 7 years as a camper I met his children Amanda and Mark (who were closer to me in age) and has I was sharing just the other day to our friend Margie - Andy would read a piece of scripture usually from Proverbs every morning at Flag Raising first thing in the morning during my week at camp every year. He is a wonderful speaker. When I was in my teens, Andy approached me if I would think of working on staff in the Kitchen (which I did for the next 7 years). It was being on staff I met his wife Char as well as the rest of the family. And really the rest is history as our lives became interwined.

In 1991, the James family moved to Calgary where he became a Camp Director at Camp Chestermere. We did not let the distance bother us - telephone calls and letters made the friendships made continue. So when I graduated the following year from college, my present to me was a trip to Calgary. It was beginning of my annual visiting to Calgary and spending time with everyone. Of course in February 1994 and the years to follows, my life changed forever with the passing of my sister. Andy was there for me - even if I wanted to vent or just to share my feeling which usually lead to my tears - he was there.

Andy - thank you for being a wonderful friend to me, someone I can go to for advice or to be simply there has meant so much to me over these years. We have had some great laughs and some great sharing times too. Being a part of your family has been such a blessing to me. I look forward to many more years in our friendship. Hope you had a very Happy Father's Day today Andy.