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MONCTON - When most people return from vacations, they have good memories and souvenirs, but come home lighter in the wallet.

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RON WARD/TIMES & TRANSCRIPT

LUCKY LADIES: Joanne Gallant, left, of Shediac and her childhood friend Gilberte Johnson are both hugged by Gilberte’s husband Steve Johnson after the two women collected their cheques for more than $7.5 million each Tuesday at Atlantic Lottery Corp.’s headquarters in Moncton.

Gilberte Johnson of Ottawa became a multi-millionaire on her most recent vacation in New Brunswick, winning half of a $15.2-million Lotto 6/49 Jackpot with longtime friend Joanne Gallant of Shediac.

"We've been exchanging dollars and buying tickets either here or in Ontario, and this time I was on vacation and I got the winning ticket," Johnson said Tuesday as she and Gallant picked up their winnings at the Atlantic Lottery Corp. office in Moncton.

Her reaction on finding out she was a multi-millionaire?

"I kind of danced around in my bedroom and, at 6 a.m., what do you do?" Johnson said.

The two women grew up in St. Ignace and have known each other since they were nine years old.

"I haven't slept a lot in the last few days," said Gallant. "It's really nerve-racking, but it's going to be fun.

"I plan on paying a few bills, paying the house off and buying myself a truck. Invest some money, help family and everything."

For Johnson, who was joined by husband Steve, the plans are less defined. They have four children and aren't sure what they are going to do with the money.

"I'm going to enjoy every minute of it. There's really no plans right now, because I have no idea," she said.

"I'm just ecstatic. I'm sure I'll have a good retirement, as of today."

Johnson said she's already resigned from her position with the federal government.

"They were quite gracious. I called them this morning, they were all happy. They had a conference call in talking to me and congratulating me. You know, I'll take them breakfast one day."

Likewise, Gallant will retire early from her position with the provincial Transportation Department.

"I've never been so relaxed in my whole life than in the last three days," said Gallant. "It's just incredible.

"I'll probably cry tears of joy next week when I'm sitting in my house ... It's incredible."