Bringing Lua Home

The road stretched ahead, winding through the breathtaking landscapes of northern Ontario. The crisp March air carried the promise of a new adventure—one that would forever change the rhythm of our home. Annette was at the wheel, her hands steady but her excitement palpable. I sat beside in the back seat, our hearts fluttering with anticipation. Today was the day.

Lua, our tiny miniature poodle, was waiting.

We had watched her grow through videos and photos, our hearts melting with every clip of her clumsy little paws and bright, curious eyes. Born on New Year’s Eve, the runt of the litter, she had entered the world outside, under the vast sky, the moon shining above her. It felt only right to name her Lua—the Portuguese word for “moon.”

As we pulled into the driveway, our excitement gave way to something deeper—an overwhelming sense of love. Annette stayed outside getting the back seat and carrier ready and I went to the door. The moment I stepped inside, a tiny ball of apricot-colored fluff was given to me. She nestled her head in my shoulder as I was petting her, until Annette came in moments later, her tail wagging with pure joy. Lua was even smaller in person, but her energy filled the space.

“She’s been waiting for you.” I was told.

I passed her over to Annette and Lua clambered into her arms, licking her chin as if she already knew—these we were her people. As Annette gently ran a hand over Lua’s impossibly soft fur. She let out a contented sigh and curled into her arms.

The drive home was filled with quiet moments and whispered reassurances. Lua curled up in her new car carrier were she felt safe and warm. Every so often, she peeked up with sleepy eyes, as if checking to make sure we were still there.

As we stepped through the door, setting Lua down on the floor for the first time, she took a few cautious steps before turning back and looking up at us.

This was her forever home.

Our first fur baby together. Our little Lua Evie our moon.

57 Years of Me

Fifty-seven years ago, I entered this world on the island of Terceira in the Azores, born at home, the time unknown. But here I am.

From that tiny island in the Atlantic to the vast landscapes of Canada, my journey has been anything but ordinary. I built a life, a marriage, two beautiful children, and a career I could be proud of. Along the way, life gave me four incredible grandchildren, moments of love, and moments of loss. It gave me struggles that tested my strength and victories that proved it.

And then, life gave me Annette. My second marriage, but the first time I truly lived as my authentic self. The road to this moment wasn’t easy—it was paved with trials, tribulations, and lessons only hardship can teach. But through it all, I found my way here, to a life where I can finally breathe freely, love openly, and embrace every part of who I am.

So, thank you, Universe, for these 57 years. And if you’re listening, I’d love another 50. At least.

Honoring the Strength of Women – Past, Present, and Future

On this International Women’s Day, I celebrate all the incredible women who inspire, uplift, and pave the way for others every single day. Today is a reminder of the resilience, courage, and unwavering strength that women bring to the world.

To all the strong women in my life—thank you. Your determination, kindness, and wisdom continue to shape who I am. And to my Avo, my grandmother—though you are no longer with us, your strength lives in me. You taught me perseverance, love, and the power of standing tall in the face of adversity. Because of you, I know what it means to be strong.

Let’s continue to lift each other up, break barriers, and celebrate the unstoppable force that is women.

#InternationalWomensDay #StrongWomen #InspiredByYou

Family Day: Near or Far, Always in My Heart

Family isn’t just about blood—it’s about love, connection, and the people who lift us up. Today, as we celebrate Family Day, my heart stretches across North America and Europe to my family, both given and chosen.

While distance keeps me from my children and grandchildren, they are never far from my thoughts. From the moment I first laid eyes on my sons and daughter, I understood the depth of love that family brings. That love only grows, even across miles.

I’m also grateful for the family we choose—the friends, partners, and communities who stand by us through life’s ups and downs. Annette and I have built a life full of love, and the people who surround us, near and far, make that even richer.

Today is a reminder that family isn’t defined by proximity—it’s defined by love, support, and the connections that make life meaningful. However you define family, I hope today brings you moments of joy, reflection, and gratitude.

Happy Family Day to all my loved ones

Finding My Why: A Journey of Connection, Advocacy, and Transformation

As we celebrate Black History Month at work, I had the privilege of hearing from a guest speaker who spoke about our “why”—our purpose and what drives us. It got me thinking deeply about my own why.

For me, my why is rooted in connection, advocacy, and transformation.

I lead with heart in everything I do—whether in my career, my community, or my personal life. Over nearly three decades in the insurance industry, I’ve been more than an underwriter; I’ve been a mentor, a problem-solver, and a leader in change. Through Proud of You, our employee resource group, and my work in mental health advocacy, I’ve sought to uplift others, create safe spaces, and ensure people feel seen and valued.

My journey of unlearning and relearning through Indigenous workshops, my dedication to truth and reconciliation, and my commitment to diversity and inclusion all stem from a deep responsibility: to make things better for those who come after me.

And at the heart of it all, is love.

Love for Annette, my children, my grandchildren ,my co-op family, and the communities I serve. My why is about making a meaningful impact—ensuring people are heard, respected, and supported, and leaving behind something that truly matters.

My purpose is to lead with empathy, create meaningful change, and uplift those around me. Through my career, my advocacy, and my personal journey, I’ve consistently been a voice for others—supporting colleagues, championing mental health, fostering inclusion, and engaging in truth and reconciliation work.

I am here to build bridges, challenge outdated perspectives, and create spaces where people feel valued and understood.

At my core, I am here to create, heal, and transform—both systems and hearts.

Embracing Love in All Its Forms!

The love I have for my children, grandchildren, family, and my wife, Annette, is at the heart of who I am. Love isn’t just a feeling—it’s a deep recognition of what moves you. It’s in the moments that make you pause and say, “I love this.” It’s in the way you care for yourself, for those close to you, and for the communities that matter.

Love is expansive. It’s found in friendships, family bonds, the unconditional loyalty of a pet, or the shared strength of a community. It’s in the small, everyday acts of kindness and the grand gestures that shape our lives.

To celebrate love is to welcome it in all its forms and let it be a guiding force in how we live. Let love be present, let it be felt, and let it lead.

Happy Valentine’s Day Everyone!

2024: A Year of Loss, Love, Growth, and Gratitude

This year has been one of the most profound of my life—a year of love, growth, heartbreak, and reflection.

Some years pass quietly, and others shape you in ways you never saw coming. For me, 2024 was life-changing—a year of love, loss, family, and transformation.

This year reminded me of the incredible gift of family. Watching my children and grandchildren grow, thrive, and live their lives has been one of the greatest blessings.

They are my pride and joy, a constant source of inspiration, laughter, and love. Family isn’t just where life begins—it’s where I find my deepest sense of purpose.

This year also brought unimaginable loss. I said goodbye to my best friend, Nelly a soul who walked beside me through so many chapters of my life. Losing Nelly left a void that words can’t fully express. The memories we shared, the laughter, the love—it all remains, etched in my heart forever.

Grief is an ever-changing journey, but I hold on to the comfort of knowing Nelly’s spirit is still with me in so many ways.

Amid the heartache, there was also incredible light.

Annette, my best friend and partner, became my wife. She gave me a moment I will never forget.

Her proposal wasn’t just a question—it was a leap of faith, a reflection of the unbreakable bond we’ve built over the years.

What followed was beyond anything I could have imagined. Waking up to a wedding, surrounded by those I love most, was a moment of pure magic.

To feel that level of love, planning, and thoughtfulness—it’s something I’ll carry with me forever. Annette, you’ve made my world brighter in every way, and I’m so honored to be your wife.

Professionally, this year was about more than accomplishments—it was about impact. Whether working on projects, mentoring others, or championing inclusivity, every step felt like a chance to leave something meaningful behind. I’ve grown so much, not just as a professional but as a person.

As I reflect on all of this, my heart is full. I’m grateful for my family, friends for the love that surrounds me, and for the opportunities to grow.

2024 was a year of transformation, and I’m walking into 2025 with open arms, ready for whatever comes next.

Here’s to love, family, friends and the endless possibilities