Find me one ‘Gramm’ who treasures her diamond ring more than she delights in the giggles, smiles, and antics of her grandkids; especially when every single giggle, smile and antic is free.

Find me a ‘Poppa’ who wouldn’t walk a mile to toss a grandchild in the air, then hear Gramm gasp with nervousness in the background. That chuck in the air is absolutely free, but absolutely priceless as well.

How much do you recall paying for the amazing sunset you saw as evening arrives?

Do you think you can find a more breathtaking view than cruising east on Horseshoe Valley Road and glancing north to the horizon as the hills bathe themselves in spectacular fall colours?

You betcha, no charge.

When you hang on tight at the railings in Niagara Falls and feel your stomach churn as you hear and watch thundering tonnes of water rush over the brink and seemingly crush the stones below into a fine mist, giving you a welcome and gentle taste of the waters’ wonder,  do you realize it’s all for free?

This doesn’t cost a penny, but it has such an effective way of reminding you you’re witnessing one of the great Canadian wonders of the world.

You can push this freebie a step further by taking the almost perpendicular short rail ride down to the Maid of the Mist and ride (you’d swear) under the massive display given you by the mighty Niagara Falls; sure, you pay for the cruise on the river, but still no charge for the spectacular show or the soaking you really do enjoy.

How many times have you been showered with the absolute love and devotion of your favourite puppy?

I don’t really care whether your canine best buddy is two months or 14 years old; when they see you coming, their whole body convulses with joy and their tails whip the air with glee, now that’s happiness costing nothing more than the ruffle of a couple of ears (I still can’t get over how my wife doesn’t quite appreciate it when I ruffle her ears).

I saw the moon the other night as it hung in the western sky with Venus just above and north of it. The huge orb was only one-third full but its value was 150-per-cent free for all to marvel at.

Another thing - and probably the most valuable thing we all have - is our imagination. Our ability to take a trip in our mind, days, months and even years before we actually make the journey. Again, no charge.

The person who coined the phrase, “half the fun is in getting there” was right on the money.

You can have almost as much fun anticipating your upcoming trip, or cruise, or walk around the lake by playing it out in your mind well before you actually embark. Try it sometime … close your eyes when you hop into the sack at night, think of where you’d like to go, then poof - go.

You’ll have a hoot. You have my absolute guarantee.

Here’s a great one-liner from “Stuff to think about”… Life isn’t tied with a bow, but it’s still a gift … and it’s free.