Many of you already know about my family’s Solstice tradition of finding gratitude for the past year and then later making Wish Bread to talk about all our hopes for the coming year. This year I’m feeling extra grateful. I’m grateful for my and my family’s health and safety after I was in a car accident this afternoon.

Roche de Boule

Winter has finally hit us after some warmer than normal temperatures. Cam and I watched the grader this morning ploughing the road while we talked about upcoming holiday events with friends. I told him I wanted to go to town to get groceries before the xmas busyness and while he didn’t want me to drive on the icy roads this day, he admitted that we couldn’t do without those groceries. I drove to town on my own today which was a nice treat since I usually have the kids with me.

Untitled

I drove without any problems. I took it slow and careful and yet on the way home, going up a hill in the truck, I accelerated a bit too much to compensate for going so slowly around an earlier turn and the truck swerved! I took care to not over compensate with the wheel but still spun off the road and into a ditch. The airbags deployed but thankfully they didn’t hit my face. I was now facing downhill in the ditch on the other side of the road.

So happy

I am so grateful to not be more hurt than I am; it could be a lot worst than sore muscles.

Kep

I’m also grateful for the many people who stopped to see if I was all right. The people who called 911. The volunteer firefighter who came out in his own vehicle to offer assistance. The man who stopped and gave me a huge hug and a shoulder to cry on and waited with me for the ambulance and police to arrive. The ambulance attendant who brushed off my worries of putting her out because I clearly wasn’t that badly hurt. For the good advice and for listening to me cry. The RCMP member who stayed with me until the tow truck came and kindly chatted with me to take my mind off the situation, even if only briefly. For the ride to the hospital and for the great support she offered me.

Going fast

I’m grateful my kids weren’t in the car with me and that no one else was hurt in the accident. When Cam came to get me he was less concerned about the truck’s welfare than my own. (Obviously but it’s still nice when it happens.) My dear neighbour for watching our kids while Cam came to get me.

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Yes, I’m feeling pretty grateful. I’m reminded not to take life for granted and to not waste a moment. Please drive safely out there!

ps. Lake skating is better than car accidents. If you have the option do the skating instead.

Hitching a ride at sunset

11 Responses to Extra Grateful This Winter Solstice

  1. Kim Peterson says:

    …so glad you are ok Annie! Hope you have a wonderful time with your family enjoying your traditions, and I just have to say the images on your blog here are just soooooo beautiful and I always love your Flickr and CM shares!!!!

  2. Annie says:

    Thank you so much, Kim. It’s an honour to hear you say that. You are such a talented photographer! xx

  3. Jenny says:

    Happy Solstice! So glad you are alright & wishing you a restful evening to fully recover! So nice to see your photos again :)

  4. Dawn Suzette says:

    So thankful that you are alright, Annie! That is so scary. And yes, it all happens so fast, without warning.

    Wishing you and yours a wonderful Solstice this year. So much to celebrate and be grateful for!

  5. debbie says:

    what a scare! i can hear the gratitude in your telling of the story; realizing all of the people who are there to support you when you really need them is overwhelming. it’s what it’s all about isn’t it? happy solstice to your family, and yes, those photos are really just stunning. thank you for sharing them!

  6. Annie says:

    Thanks so much, friends! I really appreciate the kind words! Debbie, you are so right. It is what it’s all about. xx

    Happy Solstice!!

  7. jenny says:

    Oh my! I’m so glad to hear you’re ok. What a frightening experience. I had a similar one driving home from college in Michigan, right along the lake. Scared the daylights out of me! I’ve been reflecting this holiday season on what I have to be thankful for, too–more than year’s past. It’s been a crazy hard year and I am really in need of some good reminders. Happy belated solstice to you and your amazing family, Annie! And a great 2014 ahead!

  8. Kim says:

    Whew, glad you’re alright! I’ve been missing your blog posts lately…. hope life is rich and full for your family!

  9. Crystal says:

    Great winter pictures. Canada is amazing! I especially LOVE the tailgate picture!

  10. P Flooers says:

    Hey, I hope you’re doing alright. I miss your blog.
    Sending love and Cheers,
    Katherine

  11. Sarah says:

    Hi Annie:) I just wanted to let you know, I really miss your blog! I know it’s been a long time since you have posted but I still check, now and again. I hope all is well with you and your family. Take care!

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