Would you buy a sculpture from this man?

Well, if you would, you'd be right to! 

André Guindon is one of Canada's most impressive sculptors. Entirely self-taught, he has a natural talent that makes his granite sing. Even I can see it - and I'm a philistine. 

And on top of that, he's a good friend. This piece isn't finished - and he interrupted his work to come for lunch at my new favourite café, the Shekarchi on Kent.

I met André decades ago, when we were both working in FCM's international office. International development and sculpture aren't often mentioned in the same breath, but it is the same set of skills that makes him outstanding at both. Patience, good humour, and perseverance. 

After having driven me home, got a call from Ottawacker Jr.'s school to come and pick him up. He's been sick, on and off, for two weeks now. Not sure what it is, doesn't seem serious (i.e. no fevers or rashes, not foaming at the mouth) but he can't shake it off. 

And then I heard the weather forecast on the radio: snow, freezing rain, and more snow. And that is for May 1. My good mood completely disappeared.