Red Garden - Our Home On The 'Net

The weather in the garden today:

ither by chance, or interest you have arrived here; welcome! This site will be ever-changing and describes the loves and likes of two people from opposite sides of the world that found each other and fell in love... without the sloppy mushy stuff (i.e. - no poetry or tributes to dead puppies and kittens)!

This is also the personal story of a journey into, and subsequently out of, the Roman Catholic priesthood and how courage can be found in some of the most unusual places. I also hope to show that God really does have a sense of humor... if you don't believe me just look at the platypus some time.

This site reflects not only our two cultures but the amazing powers two people have to heal each other. Xiaojie (my lovely wife in the picture [top left]) will eventually redesign this site properly while I'm out hunting caribou (okay P.E.T.A... it's a joke... I don't really hunt) and making money for the family unit. On this site you will find an abundance of whimsy, experiences and the odd pointed comment, but most of all we want couples who find themselves in similar situations to congregate someplace where we can openly discuss the joys and struggles of mixed cultures and life transitions.

Two divergent cultures can take a lot of work to coexist, but we're finding it more than worth it... it continues to define my ministry ever deeper as a man and an ordained minister, and for Xiaojie it is the chance to "nest" in every best sense of the word. More than ever, we all need places where opinions count and paths are explored. Eventually we'll have a blog and a place where we can put our remarks up for consideration and reflection. So take a look around and drop by from time to time.

If you leave us your e-mail address we'll make sure you are kept up to date on site changes.

Why Red Garden?

here are many reasons hidden in the garden for its name. Xiaojie and I were married in a beautiful garden and we both love the smell of nature in full bloom. A garden can be quiet and serene and can hold many secrets. It is also a place where people often feel safe. My father's family homes all had lovely ramshackle English gardens outside of Nottingham where hours were spent debating, eating and resting. Xiaojie's home is called "the grassland" and erupts in flowers for a short time every year in Northern China where her childhood is filled with a farming life and where she always wants to take me.

All great sanctuaries throughout the ages have had lush gardens and rich scents wafting from the bushes and trees, and finally, our own magnificent country Canada springs to life in its yearly display of foliage. So welcome to a place where you will always be welcome.

We opened Red Garden 01/06/08 and you are visitor:

This site was last updated 12/03/09
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