I took a bit of a blogging break for a couple of weeks because we had first time visitors to Saskatoon. Nothing like in-laws visiting to spur on some much-needed cleaning and furniture rearrangements.
This was the second attempt at a visit to Saskatoon for Matt’s parents and sister, Sara and her husband. Back in July, they were set to fly out here, along with Matt’s other sister, Suzy, but the Westjet strike prevented a long-awaited family reunion. We can’t recall exactly the last time we saw his sisters, but we know that it was before Brighton was even born! They had yet to meet him in person!
Thankfully, there were no hiccups on their journey here this time, though it was tiring for both parties. Matt’s parents were flying in from New Brunswick, while his sister and her husband flew in from Arizona.
Despite having never met, Brighton was not shy about getting his Uncle Curtis to play countless rounds of card games with him. He finally met his match in someone who was as lucky at games at he is. But Brighton had the upper hand at chess, teaching his uncle how to play.
Most of the “gaming” happened in our living room.
I had intended to try to sell the electric fireplace (pictured above) on Facebook Marketplace, but I am kind of liking the new arrangement. The previous owners had left it, along with the hefty piano, which used to be where the fireplace is now. Switching the position of the two larger pieces allowed me to add the two chairs, making for a cozier vibe.
As with any family gathering, we enjoyed many delicious meals together. Matt makes a mean poké bowl, which we dined on the second night that Matt’s family was here. It was a welcome treat for the majority of us since the first night’s dinner at their hotel was a bit of a disappointment.
My parents also insisted on taking everyone out to their favourite Chinese restaurant for dinner the night before Matt’s sister and brother-in-law left. I think Matt’s family was a bit appalled by the sheer number of dishes that my mom ordered, but we got to eat leftovers for days.
We also checked out the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park, our city’s local zoo, for the first time since living here. Going to Costco – another place we went to together – is bit akin to visiting a zoo, but even more crowded and depressing.
Matt’s parents extended their visit a bit longer and they stayed with us for the rest of their time here. The kittens were not shy about waking them up every morning.
My sister also generously hosted us for a delicious BBQ dinner last weekend. This time it was steak and salmon, not burgers.
Finally, we dined at our favourite local restaurant, Oomori, thus far. They make the yummiest torched rolls and the best sushi, in our opinion.
Next month, it will be our turn to travel… to Arizona. Matt and I went once, before kids and it was quite awe-inspiring. His sister and brother-in-law managed to get us to go in the wind tunnel where they work (as skydivers), but I have no intention of leaving the ground again.
I can hardly believe (or wait) that school is just around the corner. Just in the nick of time, I think, as our kiddos need some better mental stimulation besides staring at a screen!
I’ll be back next week as tomorrow we’ll be busy celebrating another family birthday. Happy weekend to you!
