I was looking again recently at my pile of school magazines. It was prompted by notices in my email about planning for the 125th anniversary of Trafalgar.
For some reason I have a copy of the Trafalgar Echoes for 1963 - the 75th anniversary of the school. I did not start attending until the fall of 1964.
I also have a copy of the 1968 Lampada - the last issue for Lachute High School. That was my class but I graduated from Traf.
It is interesting to look at the ads in the magazines. In the Lampada the ad for Ayers where my dad worked always had a prominent place. It was a prominent employer in the town.
Names of students and teachers come back to me as I read the magazines.
Showing posts with label Lachute. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lachute. Show all posts
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Lachute visit again
After almost 18 months I was there yet again. I connected with my friends at the Louisa church. I found it quite easily this time. The service was very nice and everyone was friendly. A woman there knew some friends of mine from Ottawa.
After the service we drove towards Lachute. We went by some very familiar lake names from my past. The road has lots of curves and hills - mostly going downwards this way.
Just before coming into Lachute we passed by where a riding friend used to live. Then across the little bridge and the river where my dad used to swim as a boy. The cemetery was right in front of us but we did not stop but went by where my grandparents lived and also the dairy. There was no ice cream for me this trip.
Then I took my friends on a little tour of the town and where we lived on Rue de la Princesse. They were quite impressed.
Then off to lunch at the shopping mall and a good time of sharing. I hope to meet up with these friends again another time. We will certainly stay in touch.
We did talk about lots of folks that they knew from their time in Ottawa and at St. John’s some years ago now.
After the service we drove towards Lachute. We went by some very familiar lake names from my past. The road has lots of curves and hills - mostly going downwards this way.
Just before coming into Lachute we passed by where a riding friend used to live. Then across the little bridge and the river where my dad used to swim as a boy. The cemetery was right in front of us but we did not stop but went by where my grandparents lived and also the dairy. There was no ice cream for me this trip.
Then I took my friends on a little tour of the town and where we lived on Rue de la Princesse. They were quite impressed.
Then off to lunch at the shopping mall and a good time of sharing. I hope to meet up with these friends again another time. We will certainly stay in touch.
We did talk about lots of folks that they knew from their time in Ottawa and at St. John’s some years ago now.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Changes: shutting down or staying put?
I was watching a nice summer time program on ice cream. This reminded me that I will be in Lachute this Sunday. How about some dessert from Lowe’s Dairy?
I did look up the dairy and I found some old pictures of delivery vehicles including a horse and wagon. There is only the ice cream store now and not the dairy.
It made me think of Chapman’s Ice Cream - a Canadian company. Their products are very nice - I particularly like the frozen yogurt. That is going on my next shopping list.
I was reading an article about the Central Canada Exhibition which will not be held this year. In the distant past I used to like to visit the animals and watch the horse shows. A new location closer to where Abracadabra lives might happen or maybe not.
I did look up the dairy and I found some old pictures of delivery vehicles including a horse and wagon. There is only the ice cream store now and not the dairy.
It made me think of Chapman’s Ice Cream - a Canadian company. Their products are very nice - I particularly like the frozen yogurt. That is going on my next shopping list.
I was reading an article about the Central Canada Exhibition which will not be held this year. In the distant past I used to like to visit the animals and watch the horse shows. A new location closer to where Abracadabra lives might happen or maybe not.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Cooling off: low tech version
There is no air conditioning at my house or was there in Lachute at 320 Princess Street.
Now I have two fans - a small one beside my computer and a larger one in my living room. When these do not cool me off I retreat to my basement - which is very comfortable especially for sleeping.
In Lachute we had window fans - like in the picture. They were quite noisy. My mom would turn hers on later in the afternoon to cool the bedroom for the night.
When it was very hot we would retreat to the basement and there is was very cool.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Pieces of wood
I was watching an old movie and someone was propping up the open windows with small pieces of wood. There were a number of these in the house in Lachute especially upstairs. It kept the window from falling down once opened.
I have a number of small wooden pieces of furniture. I was having them painted. They are quite useful items in my house. They are much solid wood than you would find today at Ikea. The bookcase in particular is very heavy. I think it arrived in my bedroom in Lachute when I started to collect books - so probably in my pre-teen years.
I no longer have pieces of firewood or kindling in my garage. I was able to give it all away very quickly. I probably did that just in time as there is a nasty tree disease in Ottawa - emerald ash borer. Movement of firewood in the area is becoming more difficult.
I have a number of small wooden pieces of furniture. I was having them painted. They are quite useful items in my house. They are much solid wood than you would find today at Ikea. The bookcase in particular is very heavy. I think it arrived in my bedroom in Lachute when I started to collect books - so probably in my pre-teen years.
I no longer have pieces of firewood or kindling in my garage. I was able to give it all away very quickly. I probably did that just in time as there is a nasty tree disease in Ottawa - emerald ash borer. Movement of firewood in the area is becoming more difficult.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Connections yet again
Lachute Hospital 1943-1963
This past weekend I met some new folks at the St. John’s Women’s Renewal Weekend.
One of them knows where I ride but she had not been there in a long time. She quite admired the pictures of Abracadabra.
One of the get to know you exercises was to say where you were born.
One of the people said she was born in Lachute at the hospital on Princess Street - now Rue de la Princesse. That was right next door to where we lived in Lachute for 50 years. The new hospital (where my mom spent some time) was opened in 1963 and I presume the old one was taken down shortly after.
Interesting connections and it is always good to meet new folks.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Crossing the river
I went from Barrhaven to Osgoode and we crossed the Rideau River at Manotick twice. The Rideau River winds around Ottawa so you meet it in interesting places.
Going to Barrhaven from Gloucester I crossed the river on the Queensway. I came home a different way and crossed the river by the Hunt Club Bridge. It is a very busy place at rush hour and I am glad that I do not have to drive there then.
Went I went to work in Gatineau (Hull sector) I crossed the Ottawa River all the time.
In Lachute Kathi and I lived closest to Wal Ken Farms. However we had to cross by the bridge and not use the Dam Road.
Of course Montreal is an island in the St. Lawrence River and there are lots of bridges to get to it. To go to the south shore where my mom’s sister lived you could take the Pont Victoria!
Going to Barrhaven from Gloucester I crossed the river on the Queensway. I came home a different way and crossed the river by the Hunt Club Bridge. It is a very busy place at rush hour and I am glad that I do not have to drive there then.
Went I went to work in Gatineau (Hull sector) I crossed the Ottawa River all the time.
In Lachute Kathi and I lived closest to Wal Ken Farms. However we had to cross by the bridge and not use the Dam Road.
Of course Montreal is an island in the St. Lawrence River and there are lots of bridges to get to it. To go to the south shore where my mom’s sister lived you could take the Pont Victoria!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Door to door delivery
Besides the milk, there were other deliveries that happened in Lachute.
My mom talked about the coal delivery at the first house that they lived in. I was too little to remember anything about this.
There was always newspaper delivery. One of the local families who had 11 kids passed down the job from one to another. We were one of the few families in the neighbourhood to get the Montreal Gazette instead of La Presse.
In later years I have many memories of going downstairs early to get the newspaper and to read it in bed.
My mom had eggs delivered - right from the farm.
In summer farmers selling berries and probably corn on the cob would come down the street.
My mom talked about the coal delivery at the first house that they lived in. I was too little to remember anything about this.
There was always newspaper delivery. One of the local families who had 11 kids passed down the job from one to another. We were one of the few families in the neighbourhood to get the Montreal Gazette instead of La Presse.
In later years I have many memories of going downstairs early to get the newspaper and to read it in bed.
My mom had eggs delivered - right from the farm.
In summer farmers selling berries and probably corn on the cob would come down the street.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Family history: letters to Kathi 1989-2004 pt.2
Feb. 1990 - I am glad that Prince is going to be able to eat grass like a real horse. What is he now?
June 1990 - The oldest neighbour’s son was appointed a judge. It seems only yesterday you were all playing in the sandbox.
Aug. 1990 - I’m in the market for a new mixer. After more than 40 years of faithful service my old clunker is about to give up.
Nov. 1990 - I’ll get you the ballpoint pen you asked for but I am not sure what you want - something between a 29 cent Bic and a $400 gold?
Jan. 1991 - These cold nights I’m wallowing in my Xmas bathtub gin. You do have the ability to find original presents.
Nov. 1991 - Lachute social life has kept me busy.
May 1992 - It was my turn to entertain the “girls” of the bridge club. I must admit I didn’t bring out your bottle of wine but served one from the local depanneur. (cheaper!)
July 1992 - I sometimes feel that I’m the only one of our group still on my feet.
June 1, 1993 - Last week I had a disaster. My washing machine gave up after only 29 years of faithful service.
Nov. 21, 1993 - I’ve survived 2 Christmas bazaars. Both did very well especially the home baking. People rush to the table as though they were starving and will pay any price for homemade goodies.
Dec. 6, 1993 - Lachute is ablaze with Christmas lights even on Princess Street. So as to not look like Mrs. Scrooge I’m stringing lights around the window in the porch. So far there has been no white stuff to shovel.
Jan. 18, 1994. - Just a short note to tell you that in spite of what you may hear, we are not completely frozen.
This Thursday we are acquiring some culture at the Ottawa Little Theatre.
April 13, 1994 - I’m the first on our street to have flowers so at long last it’s starting to look more like spring.
Sept. 24, 1994 - I hope Prince’s tennis elbow has improved. Has he been playing at Wimbledon?
Oct. 16, 1994 - Mme. Stitch’s services are available to line your curtains.
Nov. 15, 1994 - It should be a fairly easy job for Mme. Stitch.
June 6, 1995 - I decided to write and tell you what like is like on Poste 3 instead to trying to phone. (She fell and broke her leg while crossing Main Street and was in the local hospital for 10 weeks.)
June 11, 1995 - I have been fortunate in having lots of visitors who bring me the latest gossip, reading materials and crossword puzzles.
June 17, 1995 - We are encouraged to wear our own clothes. I have a list (en anglais) which reminds me of lists for camp or school.
June 25, 1995 - I’m anxious to get home and see how my weeds are doing.
June 30, 1995 - The events of my non busy day are 3 square meals and my session with the physiotherapist. I’ve never been away from home for so long and I’m anxious to get back to my own four walls.
Aug. 15, 1995 - The stage has been reached in my recuperation where I’m forgetting where I left my cane.
Nov. 5, 1995 - Municipal elections. It is time to turf out the present bunch who are wasting the taxpayers’ hard earners dollars.
Mar. 27, 1996 - There is no sign of any tulips or croci yet. They will probably spring up when I’m not looking.
I expect to hear of your winning the Jaguar in your hospital tirage and look forward to a ride in it.
Feb. 2, 1997 - I’m sending you my bonus package of seeds as my soil doesn’t like root crops and Prince needs fresh carrots.
May 1, 1997 - Vicki’s grass is turning green. It’s too soon for the famous Ottawa tulips to appear. Mine are up but a long way from blooming.
On Sunday Vicki and I visited a new gigantic book store called Chapters. I was so overwhelmed by the huge selection that I didn’t buy anything.
Aug. 12, 1997 - My tomatoes are disappointing. I think I sprayed too much. By all reports the plants I gave away are doing famously.
Sept. 5, 1997 - My sad tomato crop is coming to an end and my broccoli refuses to broccle. Better luck next year.
Jan. 19, 1998 - (after the big ice storm) The lower garden looks like a disaster area.
We have resigned from the curling association because of so few players. It means that we are not eligible for the Olympic team.
Mar. 4, 1998 - The spring cleanup will be a big job as well as about a cord of wood to pile.
Sept. 22, 1998 - I’ve started the sad job of preparing the garden for winter. We can expect frost to finish it any day now.
Oct. 14, 1998 - (trip to Ottawa) I’m looking for something new to wear for the busy social season in Lachute.
How are your mice? After some time away mine have returned hoping to spend the winter in my kitchen drawer.
Apr. 24, 1999 - I like this time of year in the garden when nothing has gone wrong so far like earwigs eating my seedlings.
May 19, 1999 - The earwig traps are armed and ready for intruders.
July 22, 1999 - The earwig traps are catching lots of the nasties. YUK.
Sept. 11, 1999 - I’ll arrive with my umbrella and raincoat and won’t notice the weather.
Nov. 13, 1999 - This morning we had our first sight of the white stuff.
May 6, 2000 - The porch is full of plants who are anxious to move outside.
Aug. 10, 2000 - The weeds are winning the battle to take over the garden.
Vicki is coming for the Labour Day weekend. I hope she gives me a ride in her new chariot.
Oct. 22, 2000 - I hope Prince’s social life is satisfactory and he is well. My love to the three of you. (Kathi, Cliff and Prince)
Nov. 5, 2000 - So far I’ve been unable to track down a cord of wood but I’ll keep trying. I want to be prepared for the next ice storm.
Feb. 26, 2001 - Yesterday we had freezing rain so I didn’t venture out in consideration of my new fenders. The poor thing is badly in need of a wash which will wait until spring.
Mar. 19, 2001 - My Bird of Paradise has one gorgeous bloom with 2 more starting to open. I hope they last after waiting 13 years.
I have decided that the time has come to retire from curling.
Vicki is coming on the 3rd for her birthday weekend. It’s the big 50 coming up.
July 12, 2001 - Vicki took me to Carling Lake for lunch. We sat outside on the terrace and enjoyed a delicious meal with a yummy dessert.
Have you found a shed for all your stuff?
(Long gap of letters from then until early 2002)
June 23, 2002 - This is a holiday weekend in la Belle Province but I have no plans to celebrate. The only flag I own is a Union Jack and it would be politically incorrect to fly it.
Don’t expect me to try your hot tub. I would rather have a bath.
Oct. 7, 2002 - I have hung up my curling brush and won’t venture onto the ice again.
Dec 1, 2002 - The neighbours across the street make me look like Mrs. Scrooge. Their place is covered with hundreds of lights.
My sewing machine is working overtime.
Your B.C. politics keep me amused on TV.
Dec. 12, 2002 - I dug out a few of the old Christmas decorations for a little holiday spirit.
April 17, 2003 - My engagement calendar is a blank so any time suits me. Given sufficient warning I can be sure that the freezer is well stocked with goodies.
June 29, 2003 - The PBS station came from Vancouver last week. I expected to see your garden featured but was disappointed.
Aug. 11, 2003 - Prince and I have a lot in common - advancing years slowing us down. However I’m very glad to be able to keep active and get around.
Oct. 7, 2003 - My sewing machine is humming along.
Nov. 8, 2003 - A mouse or a family of mice have decided to spend their winter vacation in my kitchen drawer. I scatter a large supply of mouse bait once or twice a day and they keep coming back for more.
Nov. 19, 2003 - I’ve raked the last lead and feel as if I’m shut in for the winter. However I do not intend to turn into a couch potato.
Dec. 12, 2003 - I’m declaring victory over my greedy mouse.
Jan. 11, 2004 - There is little news to report from here.
Feb. 7, 2004 - the last letter.
June 1990 - The oldest neighbour’s son was appointed a judge. It seems only yesterday you were all playing in the sandbox.
Aug. 1990 - I’m in the market for a new mixer. After more than 40 years of faithful service my old clunker is about to give up.
Nov. 1990 - I’ll get you the ballpoint pen you asked for but I am not sure what you want - something between a 29 cent Bic and a $400 gold?
Jan. 1991 - These cold nights I’m wallowing in my Xmas bathtub gin. You do have the ability to find original presents.
Nov. 1991 - Lachute social life has kept me busy.
May 1992 - It was my turn to entertain the “girls” of the bridge club. I must admit I didn’t bring out your bottle of wine but served one from the local depanneur. (cheaper!)
July 1992 - I sometimes feel that I’m the only one of our group still on my feet.
June 1, 1993 - Last week I had a disaster. My washing machine gave up after only 29 years of faithful service.
Nov. 21, 1993 - I’ve survived 2 Christmas bazaars. Both did very well especially the home baking. People rush to the table as though they were starving and will pay any price for homemade goodies.
Dec. 6, 1993 - Lachute is ablaze with Christmas lights even on Princess Street. So as to not look like Mrs. Scrooge I’m stringing lights around the window in the porch. So far there has been no white stuff to shovel.
Jan. 18, 1994. - Just a short note to tell you that in spite of what you may hear, we are not completely frozen.
This Thursday we are acquiring some culture at the Ottawa Little Theatre.
April 13, 1994 - I’m the first on our street to have flowers so at long last it’s starting to look more like spring.
Sept. 24, 1994 - I hope Prince’s tennis elbow has improved. Has he been playing at Wimbledon?
Oct. 16, 1994 - Mme. Stitch’s services are available to line your curtains.
Nov. 15, 1994 - It should be a fairly easy job for Mme. Stitch.
June 6, 1995 - I decided to write and tell you what like is like on Poste 3 instead to trying to phone. (She fell and broke her leg while crossing Main Street and was in the local hospital for 10 weeks.)
June 11, 1995 - I have been fortunate in having lots of visitors who bring me the latest gossip, reading materials and crossword puzzles.
June 17, 1995 - We are encouraged to wear our own clothes. I have a list (en anglais) which reminds me of lists for camp or school.
June 25, 1995 - I’m anxious to get home and see how my weeds are doing.
June 30, 1995 - The events of my non busy day are 3 square meals and my session with the physiotherapist. I’ve never been away from home for so long and I’m anxious to get back to my own four walls.
Aug. 15, 1995 - The stage has been reached in my recuperation where I’m forgetting where I left my cane.
Nov. 5, 1995 - Municipal elections. It is time to turf out the present bunch who are wasting the taxpayers’ hard earners dollars.
Mar. 27, 1996 - There is no sign of any tulips or croci yet. They will probably spring up when I’m not looking.
I expect to hear of your winning the Jaguar in your hospital tirage and look forward to a ride in it.
Feb. 2, 1997 - I’m sending you my bonus package of seeds as my soil doesn’t like root crops and Prince needs fresh carrots.
May 1, 1997 - Vicki’s grass is turning green. It’s too soon for the famous Ottawa tulips to appear. Mine are up but a long way from blooming.
On Sunday Vicki and I visited a new gigantic book store called Chapters. I was so overwhelmed by the huge selection that I didn’t buy anything.
Aug. 12, 1997 - My tomatoes are disappointing. I think I sprayed too much. By all reports the plants I gave away are doing famously.
Sept. 5, 1997 - My sad tomato crop is coming to an end and my broccoli refuses to broccle. Better luck next year.
Jan. 19, 1998 - (after the big ice storm) The lower garden looks like a disaster area.
We have resigned from the curling association because of so few players. It means that we are not eligible for the Olympic team.
Mar. 4, 1998 - The spring cleanup will be a big job as well as about a cord of wood to pile.
Sept. 22, 1998 - I’ve started the sad job of preparing the garden for winter. We can expect frost to finish it any day now.
Oct. 14, 1998 - (trip to Ottawa) I’m looking for something new to wear for the busy social season in Lachute.
How are your mice? After some time away mine have returned hoping to spend the winter in my kitchen drawer.
Apr. 24, 1999 - I like this time of year in the garden when nothing has gone wrong so far like earwigs eating my seedlings.
May 19, 1999 - The earwig traps are armed and ready for intruders.
July 22, 1999 - The earwig traps are catching lots of the nasties. YUK.
Sept. 11, 1999 - I’ll arrive with my umbrella and raincoat and won’t notice the weather.
Nov. 13, 1999 - This morning we had our first sight of the white stuff.
May 6, 2000 - The porch is full of plants who are anxious to move outside.
Aug. 10, 2000 - The weeds are winning the battle to take over the garden.
Vicki is coming for the Labour Day weekend. I hope she gives me a ride in her new chariot.
Oct. 22, 2000 - I hope Prince’s social life is satisfactory and he is well. My love to the three of you. (Kathi, Cliff and Prince)
Nov. 5, 2000 - So far I’ve been unable to track down a cord of wood but I’ll keep trying. I want to be prepared for the next ice storm.
Feb. 26, 2001 - Yesterday we had freezing rain so I didn’t venture out in consideration of my new fenders. The poor thing is badly in need of a wash which will wait until spring.
Mar. 19, 2001 - My Bird of Paradise has one gorgeous bloom with 2 more starting to open. I hope they last after waiting 13 years.
I have decided that the time has come to retire from curling.
Vicki is coming on the 3rd for her birthday weekend. It’s the big 50 coming up.
July 12, 2001 - Vicki took me to Carling Lake for lunch. We sat outside on the terrace and enjoyed a delicious meal with a yummy dessert.
Have you found a shed for all your stuff?
(Long gap of letters from then until early 2002)
June 23, 2002 - This is a holiday weekend in la Belle Province but I have no plans to celebrate. The only flag I own is a Union Jack and it would be politically incorrect to fly it.
Don’t expect me to try your hot tub. I would rather have a bath.
Oct. 7, 2002 - I have hung up my curling brush and won’t venture onto the ice again.
Dec 1, 2002 - The neighbours across the street make me look like Mrs. Scrooge. Their place is covered with hundreds of lights.
My sewing machine is working overtime.
Your B.C. politics keep me amused on TV.
Dec. 12, 2002 - I dug out a few of the old Christmas decorations for a little holiday spirit.
April 17, 2003 - My engagement calendar is a blank so any time suits me. Given sufficient warning I can be sure that the freezer is well stocked with goodies.
June 29, 2003 - The PBS station came from Vancouver last week. I expected to see your garden featured but was disappointed.
Aug. 11, 2003 - Prince and I have a lot in common - advancing years slowing us down. However I’m very glad to be able to keep active and get around.
Oct. 7, 2003 - My sewing machine is humming along.
Nov. 8, 2003 - A mouse or a family of mice have decided to spend their winter vacation in my kitchen drawer. I scatter a large supply of mouse bait once or twice a day and they keep coming back for more.
Nov. 19, 2003 - I’ve raked the last lead and feel as if I’m shut in for the winter. However I do not intend to turn into a couch potato.
Dec. 12, 2003 - I’m declaring victory over my greedy mouse.
Jan. 11, 2004 - There is little news to report from here.
Feb. 7, 2004 - the last letter.
Family history: letters to Kathi 1989-2004
Kathi moved to Vancouver in 1989. My mom moved to Ottawa in 2004. Her last letter was in February 2004.
So there was a lot of enjoyment of life and sharing it. My mom wrote of social events - curling and bridge club and other outings, including McGill outings with her classmates. There were lots of visits to Ottawa and to Vancouver and from her two daughters as well. She enjoyed these visits a lot.
Because she was a keen gardener, she often wrote about these activities - preparing to garden in the spring and attacking the problems such as bugs and enjoying the harvest and blooms and putting the garden to bed in the fall.
She wrote about friends and family that Kathi would know.
In 1995 she spent 10 weeks in the local hospital after breaking her leg. She wrote during that time. From July 2001 to February 2002 she did not write at all - these were the months of her hospital and convalescent home stays.
It was fun for me to read them in October 2007 - a year after my mom died. She shared her life - especially people and places. She had funny expressions and sayings and she used them often. It is good to be able to remember all of this.
One of her favourites at the end of many of the earlier letters - No more noos for now.
So there was a lot of enjoyment of life and sharing it. My mom wrote of social events - curling and bridge club and other outings, including McGill outings with her classmates. There were lots of visits to Ottawa and to Vancouver and from her two daughters as well. She enjoyed these visits a lot.
Because she was a keen gardener, she often wrote about these activities - preparing to garden in the spring and attacking the problems such as bugs and enjoying the harvest and blooms and putting the garden to bed in the fall.
She wrote about friends and family that Kathi would know.
In 1995 she spent 10 weeks in the local hospital after breaking her leg. She wrote during that time. From July 2001 to February 2002 she did not write at all - these were the months of her hospital and convalescent home stays.
It was fun for me to read them in October 2007 - a year after my mom died. She shared her life - especially people and places. She had funny expressions and sayings and she used them often. It is good to be able to remember all of this.
One of her favourites at the end of many of the earlier letters - No more noos for now.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Ayers family connections
My dad and his dad worked for Ayers. The company eventually packed up and went to Florida but that was quite a while after my dad and my grandfather had both died.
*****
I was watching the program about the actor who plays Hercule Poirot - David Suchet - as he took a trip on the Orient Express. He got to drive the train.
I could not help thinking about one of the Ayers family. He loved trains and had a large setup in his basement - for his two sons or for himself? Sometimes he was allowed to drive the train that went from Lachute to Montreal.
*****
I have in my house several Ayers items.
A coffee mug
A key chain
Some dishes
Of course I have some Ayers blankets. I actually found some on sale on Ebay.
A long time ago when I was at a horsy store in Ottawa there were some woollen horse blankets with the Ayers crest.
*****
I remember going to my dad’s office and sitting in his swivel desk chair.
My mom was much impressed by the telex machine that could receive messages when no one was in the office.
I remember Christmas parties for the children of the staff and Santa being there to give out the presents.
I remember their elaborate Christmas decorations - a full sized crèche and a Santa and his reindeer display.
I remember the railroad tracks that went into the mill yard. They went behind the house on Princess Street.
I remember one expedition to Montreal to Belmont Park to go on the rides. There was a train arranged from the mill yard and families went off together for a day of fun. I found this wonderful web site which brings back some memories.
http://cec.chebucto.org/ClosPark/Belmont.html
*****
I was watching the program about the actor who plays Hercule Poirot - David Suchet - as he took a trip on the Orient Express. He got to drive the train.
I could not help thinking about one of the Ayers family. He loved trains and had a large setup in his basement - for his two sons or for himself? Sometimes he was allowed to drive the train that went from Lachute to Montreal.
*****
I have in my house several Ayers items.
A coffee mug
A key chain
Some dishes
Of course I have some Ayers blankets. I actually found some on sale on Ebay.
A long time ago when I was at a horsy store in Ottawa there were some woollen horse blankets with the Ayers crest.
*****
I remember going to my dad’s office and sitting in his swivel desk chair.
My mom was much impressed by the telex machine that could receive messages when no one was in the office.
I remember Christmas parties for the children of the staff and Santa being there to give out the presents.
I remember their elaborate Christmas decorations - a full sized crèche and a Santa and his reindeer display.
I remember the railroad tracks that went into the mill yard. They went behind the house on Princess Street.
I remember one expedition to Montreal to Belmont Park to go on the rides. There was a train arranged from the mill yard and families went off together for a day of fun. I found this wonderful web site which brings back some memories.
http://cec.chebucto.org/ClosPark/Belmont.html
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Ottawa earthquake: Wednesday June 23, 2010
I was in the downtown area at the Anglican Cathedral next to Parliament Hill. The building shook and we wondered whether it was some construction. Then someone told us to get out. Actually this was not good advice - we should have got underneath the table.
A number of us including the Bishop of Ottawa stood around for 20 minutes or so and then we all went back inside. In the basement where there is a thrift shop it was felt more.
I think many of the government buildings were evacuated and folks went home early - I met someone I know at my bus stop on my way home.
*****
I wonder whether horses or donkeys feel the earthquake coming. I know that other animals do - particularly dogs. I will have to ask Abracadabra.
*****
There was talk of this being a rather large earthquake. The one of 1944 was mentioned. I think that is the one that my mom remembered.
If you look on the Earthquake Canada list of earthquakes Lachute is mentioned a couple of times for recent events that were felt.
Cell phones did not work for a while - everyone was trying to phone someone. Those folks I was standing outside with were doing the same thing.
Also the Earthquake Canada and the US Geological Survey web sites were both down as well. They are now talking about Twitter for another event like this.
A number of us including the Bishop of Ottawa stood around for 20 minutes or so and then we all went back inside. In the basement where there is a thrift shop it was felt more.
I think many of the government buildings were evacuated and folks went home early - I met someone I know at my bus stop on my way home.
*****
I wonder whether horses or donkeys feel the earthquake coming. I know that other animals do - particularly dogs. I will have to ask Abracadabra.
*****
There was talk of this being a rather large earthquake. The one of 1944 was mentioned. I think that is the one that my mom remembered.
If you look on the Earthquake Canada list of earthquakes Lachute is mentioned a couple of times for recent events that were felt.
Cell phones did not work for a while - everyone was trying to phone someone. Those folks I was standing outside with were doing the same thing.
Also the Earthquake Canada and the US Geological Survey web sites were both down as well. They are now talking about Twitter for another event like this.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
A cool breeze blows
I walk through the house in Lachute and I hear…
My bedroom - the old back porch - there are metal blinds.
At the window - there are wooden blinds.
In Kathi’s room, the pull up blind bangs slightly. Her door does too in a more sturdy breeze.
In the bathroom the metal blinds bang.
In the guestroom the blinds bang more quietly. They are wooden too.
In the master bedroom the light curtains move gently. The ones that are on a pulley do not move at all.
On the landing going downstairs there is no window open.
In the living room no window is open.
In the front porch the door is open and the metal blinds bang gently.
In the dining room there is no window open.
In the television room the wooden blinds are banging.
The back door is open but there is no noise there.
In the sewing room the curtains are open and a gentle breeze blows through.
*****
Of course no one is there in this house and the noises only live in my memory - 6 years ago now that this house is no longer part of my life.
*****
I am reminded of these noises and the house as I sit in my Ottawa living room. It is a cool day and there is a slight breeze. The curtains are gently moving.
I am reminded again of my mom who made these curtains 21 years ago.
My bedroom - the old back porch - there are metal blinds.
At the window - there are wooden blinds.
In Kathi’s room, the pull up blind bangs slightly. Her door does too in a more sturdy breeze.
In the bathroom the metal blinds bang.
In the guestroom the blinds bang more quietly. They are wooden too.
In the master bedroom the light curtains move gently. The ones that are on a pulley do not move at all.
On the landing going downstairs there is no window open.
In the living room no window is open.
In the front porch the door is open and the metal blinds bang gently.
In the dining room there is no window open.
In the television room the wooden blinds are banging.
The back door is open but there is no noise there.
In the sewing room the curtains are open and a gentle breeze blows through.
*****
Of course no one is there in this house and the noises only live in my memory - 6 years ago now that this house is no longer part of my life.
*****
I am reminded of these noises and the house as I sit in my Ottawa living room. It is a cool day and there is a slight breeze. The curtains are gently moving.
I am reminded again of my mom who made these curtains 21 years ago.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Lachute stuff at lunch today
The tray - from a long time ago. I think it was made by Kathi or me at Camp Ouareau.
The placemat - an old one belonging to my mom.
The napkin - also from Lachute. It was a white one that I dyed yellow many years ago. Good quality obviously.
A silver plated spoon for my soup.
A small nicely designed glass - maybe even from Trois-Rivières where my mom grew up.
The placemat - an old one belonging to my mom.
The napkin - also from Lachute. It was a white one that I dyed yellow many years ago. Good quality obviously.
A silver plated spoon for my soup.
A small nicely designed glass - maybe even from Trois-Rivières where my mom grew up.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Emotional landscape
I was reading about this in a book recently - the fact that you can never really go home again. You can remember places and places and even other times as they were.
All is changed and the familiar is gone.
Pictures help us to remember.
*****
320 Princess Street Lachute is gone from my life.
Wal Ken Farms is gone from my life.
Trafalgar School has not gone but the boarding school is no more.
St. Simeon’s Anglican Church in Lachute is still there.
*****
Going farther back - where my parents grew up is much changed. The house where my dad grew up is still there. My mom went back to Trois-Rivières and saw the house where she was born.
When I figured it out my mom lived longer in Lachute than my dad did - almost 60 years. My dad from the age of 7 until the age of 57 when he died. - so only 50 years.
There was an interesting picture in the Lachute newspaper of a school class from the Lachute Academy which my dad attended. Someone was able to name almost everyone and a lot of them were still living in the area.
All is changed and the familiar is gone.
Pictures help us to remember.
*****
320 Princess Street Lachute is gone from my life.
Wal Ken Farms is gone from my life.
Trafalgar School has not gone but the boarding school is no more.
St. Simeon’s Anglican Church in Lachute is still there.
*****
Going farther back - where my parents grew up is much changed. The house where my dad grew up is still there. My mom went back to Trois-Rivières and saw the house where she was born.
When I figured it out my mom lived longer in Lachute than my dad did - almost 60 years. My dad from the age of 7 until the age of 57 when he died. - so only 50 years.
There was an interesting picture in the Lachute newspaper of a school class from the Lachute Academy which my dad attended. Someone was able to name almost everyone and a lot of them were still living in the area.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Going back home
I saw on the St. Andrew’s web site that St. Simeon’s was having a visit from the Bishop of Montreal. It had been over a year that I had not gone to Lachute. The weather was good for driving that Sunday. I hopped into my little car that almost knows the way to Lachute by himself.
I went by the house on Princess Street. What have they done with the front porch and the old windows and what about that hose that is attached to the tap in the winter? As I was telling a friend later on - it is hard to go back and see the house that was part of our family life for 50 years. Now it is not ours but many memories from living there.
At the church I met up with a Billingham family member of the horsy place. I chatted with the clergy that I knew and I introduced myself to another one that is helping out and also the Bishop.
There were various folks that remembered me and my mom. I saw two of my mom’s close friends.
The place is so familiar and has always been part of my life. During the sermon the Bishop talked about baptism. He said he was going to ask us a rhetorical question. He never did. He talked about his own baptism - where and when and by whom. He also told us that he was a twin.
*****
So do I remember where and when I was baptized? St. Simeon’s Church Lachute June 10th?? 1951 by Cyrus Lang (who died fairly recently at a good old age.) It was only a few feet from where the bishop was preaching. It would have been a Sunday afternoon and not during the regular church time as baptisms happen now.
I went by the house on Princess Street. What have they done with the front porch and the old windows and what about that hose that is attached to the tap in the winter? As I was telling a friend later on - it is hard to go back and see the house that was part of our family life for 50 years. Now it is not ours but many memories from living there.
At the church I met up with a Billingham family member of the horsy place. I chatted with the clergy that I knew and I introduced myself to another one that is helping out and also the Bishop.
There were various folks that remembered me and my mom. I saw two of my mom’s close friends.
The place is so familiar and has always been part of my life. During the sermon the Bishop talked about baptism. He said he was going to ask us a rhetorical question. He never did. He talked about his own baptism - where and when and by whom. He also told us that he was a twin.
*****
So do I remember where and when I was baptized? St. Simeon’s Church Lachute June 10th?? 1951 by Cyrus Lang (who died fairly recently at a good old age.) It was only a few feet from where the bishop was preaching. It would have been a Sunday afternoon and not during the regular church time as baptisms happen now.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Sad or lonely house??
My house is sometimes sad - especially when watching the news lately. I have also been to two major funerals and talked with a friend about another. People are missed.
My house is not lonely though - I am always doing something. When I am at home relaxing it is quiet but that is different.
In the latest episode of Little House on the Prairie the little house was empty as everyone was away. Laura went by to see it and she was asked how it looked. She said lonely.
My neighbour’s house looks to be lonely when she is not at home - no lights on at night and no dogs out and about in the back yard.
A long time ago now my mom fell and broke her leg. She stepped out for the afternoon and was not home again for 10 weeks. That was the first time I stayed alone in the house. I was not lonely though. The garden did miss her.
Then in 2001 and 2004 when my mom was in the hospital and convalescent home, the house was lonely then. The folks that bought it said to me - the house seems to be sad and lonely. It was missing my mom’s attention and attendance. The house was never the same for me and my sister.
My house is not lonely though - I am always doing something. When I am at home relaxing it is quiet but that is different.
In the latest episode of Little House on the Prairie the little house was empty as everyone was away. Laura went by to see it and she was asked how it looked. She said lonely.
My neighbour’s house looks to be lonely when she is not at home - no lights on at night and no dogs out and about in the back yard.
A long time ago now my mom fell and broke her leg. She stepped out for the afternoon and was not home again for 10 weeks. That was the first time I stayed alone in the house. I was not lonely though. The garden did miss her.
Then in 2001 and 2004 when my mom was in the hospital and convalescent home, the house was lonely then. The folks that bought it said to me - the house seems to be sad and lonely. It was missing my mom’s attention and attendance. The house was never the same for me and my sister.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
In my house: bedroom items
I was looking around my bedroom the other day and realizing that I had lots of items from Lachute. I wrote a similar posting on what was in my basement.
In my house: basement items
*****
There are two synthetic blankets on my bed at this time of year. Both were made by Ayers which usually made wool blankets. I have liked them for a long time - they are nice and soft.
I have a small white place mat on my bedside table. They were a crochet design that my mom used often on the dining room table.
The stuffed animals live on a bench with a needlepoint cover in pink and blue. Ruthie Rabbit sleeps on a needlepoint covered chair. I have a Kleenex box also in pink and blue needlepoint.
I have a straw garbage can from the guest room which originally came from Henry Morgan in Montreal - now The Bay.
There are 3 flower pictures. One hung in the upstairs hallway. It was simple and brightly coloured but much admired.
There is a painting of Durham Cathedral.
Opening the cupboard I can see the family Bible (my mom’s family) and an sweater from Marks and Spencer that has seen many years of wear. On the shelf there are the two boxes of the letters that my dad sent my mom when he was overseas during the war.
I have a full drawer of sweaters and vests that my mom made.
*****
I like these familiar things - they remind me of Lachute and family connections.
In my house: basement items
*****
There are two synthetic blankets on my bed at this time of year. Both were made by Ayers which usually made wool blankets. I have liked them for a long time - they are nice and soft.
I have a small white place mat on my bedside table. They were a crochet design that my mom used often on the dining room table.
The stuffed animals live on a bench with a needlepoint cover in pink and blue. Ruthie Rabbit sleeps on a needlepoint covered chair. I have a Kleenex box also in pink and blue needlepoint.
I have a straw garbage can from the guest room which originally came from Henry Morgan in Montreal - now The Bay.
There are 3 flower pictures. One hung in the upstairs hallway. It was simple and brightly coloured but much admired.
There is a painting of Durham Cathedral.
Opening the cupboard I can see the family Bible (my mom’s family) and an sweater from Marks and Spencer that has seen many years of wear. On the shelf there are the two boxes of the letters that my dad sent my mom when he was overseas during the war.
I have a full drawer of sweaters and vests that my mom made.
*****
I like these familiar things - they remind me of Lachute and family connections.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
French Canadians and France
These thoughts all started after having lunch with a French Canadian friend whose husband grew up in France. The family goes to visit often. She was also interested in immigrants who came a long time ago to Quebec.
Horses like Bishop and Charisma were not mentioned They had distinguished ancestors from France.
My area of the city has all 3 local politicians who are francophone - municipal, provincial and federal.
Of course Lachute is a French name - the falls. Actually the falls in the river are not very big at all.
There was a Lachute history written in the 1960s by a scholar from England. I might have mentioned his wife - Eleanor Rigby - who taught us music. Now you can read some of his book online. I have a signed copy on my bookshelf. Now there is a Rue Dr. Rigby in Lachute.
Horses like Bishop and Charisma were not mentioned They had distinguished ancestors from France.
My area of the city has all 3 local politicians who are francophone - municipal, provincial and federal.
Of course Lachute is a French name - the falls. Actually the falls in the river are not very big at all.
There was a Lachute history written in the 1960s by a scholar from England. I might have mentioned his wife - Eleanor Rigby - who taught us music. Now you can read some of his book online. I have a signed copy on my bookshelf. Now there is a Rue Dr. Rigby in Lachute.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
English newspapers
My dad made some good friends in England when he was stationed there during the war. I met the daughter when she came to Canada in 1967. She had been a teenager during the war. I met her again with her mom when my mom and I went to England in the fall of 1975 after my dad had died suddenly.
My mom and this family exchanged Christmas cards and various presents over the years. I remember my mom going to a local cheese producer in Vankleek Hill Ontario to buy some Canadian cheddar. It was specially wrapped to send to England.
In return they sent to us a subscription to the “Illustrated London News.” It was a very distinguished publication that started in 1842. My mom would pass the magazine to someone else when she was finished with it. It seems that the magazine made the rounds of Lachute. She was once offered a copy and had to admit that she did not need to read it as it had started out at her house!
*****
A much less reputable newspaper that was sometimes around in the house in Lachute was “The News of the World.” It is known to be involved with various scandals - I think my parents enjoyed it as a bit of a joke.
*****
Can I compare these two titles to the Ottawa Citizen or the Ottawa Sun? Not really. Now I do not read either newspaper in hard copy and when I am phoned to take out a subscription I tell them that I only read it online - which is true.
My mom and this family exchanged Christmas cards and various presents over the years. I remember my mom going to a local cheese producer in Vankleek Hill Ontario to buy some Canadian cheddar. It was specially wrapped to send to England.
In return they sent to us a subscription to the “Illustrated London News.” It was a very distinguished publication that started in 1842. My mom would pass the magazine to someone else when she was finished with it. It seems that the magazine made the rounds of Lachute. She was once offered a copy and had to admit that she did not need to read it as it had started out at her house!
*****
A much less reputable newspaper that was sometimes around in the house in Lachute was “The News of the World.” It is known to be involved with various scandals - I think my parents enjoyed it as a bit of a joke.
*****
Can I compare these two titles to the Ottawa Citizen or the Ottawa Sun? Not really. Now I do not read either newspaper in hard copy and when I am phoned to take out a subscription I tell them that I only read it online - which is true.
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