So many memories as I remember David, my father in law.

Among the most poignant for me are those of the trip he and Janet made to visit us in Canada a couple of years after we emigrated.

I particularly remember the brightness and exceptional warmth of the autumn sunshine - I'd like to be able to say we laid it on specially!

I remember walking with him through the lovely deep green treed streets of Toronto's Beaches and along the boardwalk on the shining shores of Lake Ontario.

I remember the deep pleasure of a day at Toronto Zoo, particularly watching the grizzly bears frolicking in their pond - and how challenging it was wheeling a wheelchair back up the very steep hill to save his legs.

I remember being simultaneously entertained and terrified as David and Janet zoomed around our local supermarket on the disability scooters they provided, treating them more like go-karts, or perhaps even bumper cars!

I remember our trip to Niagara on the Lake, with an unexpected bonus of the Canadian and American Scouts parading down the main street following a re-enactment of border skirmishes (and the surprise of hearing 'Hello Paul, hello Gina!' from among the marchers), as well as a night at the theatre. Next day we stood, awed as always, by the power of Niagara Falls.

I remember heading north to the hospitality of friends in Georgian Bay to celebrate Thanksgiving as a family, the trees still only tinged with orange and red, the sun still gilding my memories.

I remember David fighting back tears as we hugged and said goodbye at the airport, afraid he might not see us again. 

We have visited and celebrated together since then, built more wonderful memories. But this was a truly special time to treasure.