Thanks to Deb Foote and Linda Smith for inspiring this story of island hospitality.
Expresso
The hood of my rain jacket provides some protection from the pouring rain. Backpack over one shoulder, large suitcase at my feet, I wait.
Drivers don’t have to take the first in line;
you don’t have to accept a ride—that’s fine
It’s at your own risk if you take a lift;
the ride is free, so consider it a gift.
-Anonymous
The sign I stand beside offers me hope that someone will help me—even though I'm a stranger on this remote island.
And someone does stop. The driver rolls down her window. White hair. Wrinkles. Why does she look familiar?
"You shouldn't stand in the rain," she scolds. "You'll get a cold, the flu."
If I had a choice...
"Put your luggage in my trunk. I'll give you a ride."
She must press a button because the trunk springs open.
I do what I'm told. When I climb into the passenger seat, I notice that she's wearing a BC Ferries jacket. So that's where I must have seen her.
"I’m sure it feels good to be released from that burden. Are you planning a long holiday?"
"I'm moving..." The commitment weighs me down. "here," I whisper.
"Moving to Mayne Island requires an adjustment in your mindset...in a lot of things, actually. But living happily on a rural island is a goal that can be achieved. I’m living proof. I didn’t always… It took time and effort, but now I can say with confidence that I truly enjoy living here.” She smiles and that smile lights up her face. “What's your name, girl?"
"Salsa." We're sitting side-by-side in her car. I speak loudly, clearly. I know she has heard me but she says, "Sally, do you enjoy indulging in expresso? There's an expresso club on the island. We meet every Thursday night to sip and chat. You should come. Yes, I think you'll fit into our group very nicely. It's settled. You're coming. Now where should I take you?"
I give her directions and she gives me her name—Aster. She tells me to call her Ash.
July on this blog...
Sunday, July 23
Book Review: The Sleeping Car Porter by Suzette Mayr
2022 Scotiabank Giller winner
Sunday, July 30
Dog or Wolf (short story) by Leanne Dyck
a fable
Surprise...
From late spring to early autumn, I like to read outside in my backyard. That's where I was last Thursday when I heard a rustle in the bush. Was it a bear? Or a...?
No, it was a...
