As stated on the 150 Stories website:
150 Stories is a collection of new stories and images that speak eloquently about what it means to be Canadian in Ontario. Listening to each other is a first step in creating the communities and country of which we can be proud. Let thoughtful and peaceful engagement be our gift to the future and our legacy to the world at large.
In her foreword, the Lieutenant Governor adds:
Throughout this year 2017, we will celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation and Ontario’s role as a founding province of Canada. What better time to record and reflect upon who we are?
It is my hope that by actively listening to our stories we can become more aware of and better understand each other and, in turn, create the communities and country of which we can be proud. May this exercise of thoughtful and peaceful engagement be our gift to the future and perhaps a legacy to the world at large.
Read on to enjoy Jamie's story; visit the 150 Stories site to see all the contributions.
Also, all in-person visitors will receive a complimentary copy of the book.
Jamie Kennedy, CM is a chef and the owner of Jamie Kennedy Kitchens, which fosters regional gastronomy, specifically as it relates to Prince Edward County.
Over the past fifteen years I have been a weekend warrior. My life revolved around family and enterprise in Toronto but I longed for a more meaningful connection to my farm in Prince Edward County. This year, with my kids grown up and on their own, I have been able to plant myself on the farm.
One of the first things I remember about settling into my new rural home was the tour of the property conducted by the previous owner. It was such a lovely gesture on his part to personally walk me around, pointing out landmarks and boundaries; here is the abandoned rail that cuts right through, over there is the thirty-five-acre woodlot. “It could use some thinning,” he said. “Let me recommend a good arborist.” It was like the passing of the baton. It felt like a powerful moment. The proper stewardship of this land is now in my hands. My watch had begun.
Written by Jo Dickins
The top photo is from the LG's flickr album