The Road Less Travelled in Lanark County: Part 1

It was that time of the day – post-sugar bush, pre-ice cream – when every mother recognizes the limitations of adding any more stops on a roadtrip. The kids, at that point, could go either way.

But they happily hopped out of the van, badminton rackets in hand, and began playing while we stood on the stoop, rang the doorbell, and waited as the sign instructed. A minute later a beautiful woman with long white braids opened the door, looking surprised to see two strangers peering through the glass. She hadn’t actually heard the bell and the antique store wasn’t actually open. Nevertheless, we were welcomed in.

Jeanie’s husband, Nic, joined us and, as happens when time is of the essence, we skipped the small talk in favour of a building tour and discussions of local craftsmen, families, likes/dislikes, history, favourite blogs, touring Italy, Burritt’s Rapids and helping to move some furniture. And I went out on a limb with a very personal request that doesn’t always fly: Could I take their portrait in the Rembrandt-like light of their shop? They agreed.

It pained me to decline the offer to view their carefully restored home that is chock-full of antiques and curiosities. But that would be left for another day, a road trip unto itself when I am not rushed or distracted by little people.

Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither are friendships. But there are few things more satisfying than meeting congenial strangers through happenstance and seeing where it leads.

Arrivederci.

***********

Lanark Village Antiques & Collectibles
Jeanie & Nic Maennling
84 York Street, Lanark, ON
(613) 259-2548 to check for hours
maennling@sympatico.ca