In my living and dining room I have some very practical pink and blue curtains that I have a special connection to. The other curtains in my house are just curtains.
Present:
It has been hot this summer and I often keep the curtains closed.
Past:
My mom made these curtains the first summer I lived in the house. I can still see her with all the material stretched out on the floor being measured and then cut.
Present:
Yesterday it rained for a short period when I was napping somewhere else. The window was open and the curtains got wet. They dried very quickly being of a substantial cotton material.
Past:
On September 11 2001 I was at home and hemming the lining of these curtains and watching CBC Newsworld - as it was known then.
Present:
The curtains are somewhat faded now but I am not thinking about replacing them any time soon - there are just too many memories associated with them.
Showing posts with label mom. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mom. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Looking back: light and heat
As I turned on a light this morning with a flick of a switch I thought about how easy this is to do. As listened to my furnace making noises downstairs I thought about how I keep warm. Electricity for lights and everything else and then natural gas foe heating have always been part of my house life in Ottawa.
In my past it was always electric lights and the house on Princess Street was heated by electricity too. There was no furnace in the basement.
For a long time there was a free source of electricity - a perk from my dad’s work at Ayers and because we were living in a former company house. This changed some time after my dad died and my mom had to sign up with Hydro Quebec. Then my mom was more careful with the lights that she had on and also the heat in unused bedrooms during the winter.
*****
In 1916 in Trois-Rivieres when my mom was born there was probably electric lights and heating by coal.
In 1885 in Middlesborough England when my mom’s mom was born there was probably candles - maybe gas lights somewhere - and heating by coal.
These are educated guesses only.
I have been watching Lark Rise to Candleford - a lovely series of two small villages in the late 1900s. I can understand why a good friend liked them - a nice feel to the story.
Looking back: news
As I went upstairs to my computer this morning I thought about news and how I know about what is going on in the world.
My first choice is the Internet and the 2nd is the television. I listen to the radio very seldom and a printed newspaper has not existed in my house for a long time. The exception is when my sister visits and I remember my mom liking to read a newspaper too when she came to visit.
So where did my mom get her news from?
She listened to the radio a lot. She watched television a lot. She read the newspaper as long as I could remember.
The radio was often on in her bedroom. She had it on in the kitchen in the morning.
Going back another generation to my mom’s mom who was born in 1885 in Middlesborough near Durham in England. Both radio and television were a long time away.
I checked for a local newspaper in Durham. There is the Northern Echo and it did exist in 1885.
I expect my mom’s mom was literate and did read the newspaper - she was a kindergarten teacher.
Monday, November 28, 2011
People look East the time is near…
So yesterday was the first Sunday in Advent. The wreath was prepared and the candles were trimmed and ready for lighting. The brass followers were polished.
The service itself was very nice with the music and the Advent wreath in the darkness of the chapel with the first candle lit.
Then I was with some friends for lunch - what are your Christmas plans? All the rest in the group had family to spend time with.
I talked with my sister and brother in law on the west coast yesterday. We will not meet up at Christmas but parcels are being prepared.
I will be spending time with my church family. There is always lots of Altar Guild activities. I have already made a list. Candles and flowers need particular attention.
Going back in my past I was always in Lachute for Christmas and I missed St. John’s. Now I look fondly at those times past in my life. Then I remember my mom coming to Ottawa to spend time with me.
When looking through my old diary from 1974 when I first came to Ottawa there was some question of maybe being in Toronto for Christmas. That did not happen and Kathi and I were with my mom and dad in Lachute. Little did we know that was to be his last Christmas before he died the next May.
*****
Enjoy the people and times and places that one has - you never know what is around the corner.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Missing my mom: late summer 2011
It is difficult to believe that it was 7 years ago that she moved from Lachute and almost 5 years ago that she died.
I am reminded of her all the time. I saw some morning glories (flowers) on my walk around the neighbourhood this morning. She liked to grow them.
The only rug that she hooked is in my basement bathroom and it is starting to look a little tired. It is white and black and needs to be washed regularly.
It seems like all the time I hear about friends with elderly parents who are not doing well and needing more care or dying. It is a difficult time of our lives. My mom’s care always worked out and it was not difficult to deal with her.
I am reminded of her all the time. I saw some morning glories (flowers) on my walk around the neighbourhood this morning. She liked to grow them.
The only rug that she hooked is in my basement bathroom and it is starting to look a little tired. It is white and black and needs to be washed regularly.
It seems like all the time I hear about friends with elderly parents who are not doing well and needing more care or dying. It is a difficult time of our lives. My mom’s care always worked out and it was not difficult to deal with her.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Camp and parents and horses
I was watching the parents dropping off the kids for summer camp at the barn. I had memories of my mom and dad.
Before Kathi and I were able to drive ourselves my mom and dad provided transportation to the barn. It was a big thing when we learned to drive and even more so when we acquired our own car.
Then there are memories of being driven to summer camp in the Laurentians. That was quite a trip. We had trunks for our one month stay. Parents appeared at Parents Day with a fine picnic and my dad might have gone in swimming with us - my mom did not swim. Now this particular camp is having a 90th anniversary.
Before Kathi and I were able to drive ourselves my mom and dad provided transportation to the barn. It was a big thing when we learned to drive and even more so when we acquired our own car.
Then there are memories of being driven to summer camp in the Laurentians. That was quite a trip. We had trunks for our one month stay. Parents appeared at Parents Day with a fine picnic and my dad might have gone in swimming with us - my mom did not swim. Now this particular camp is having a 90th anniversary.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Grieving and life changes
I had another email this week from the church. There are two priests who will help us out at this time of transition.
A priest in charge will take services and provide pastoral care.
A specialist in interim ministry will be at a meeting on Saturday. I will be there along with my two Altar Guild colleagues.
*****
My dear friend in Edmonton who lost his wife to cancer last year at Easter sent me an article on grieving.
*****
I have a good friend who is going through a major transition herself. She is ready to be ordained but will not know for a bit whether that will happen. She knows Dana so I shared the news about her departure with her.
She phoned me back shortly after to say that her elderly cat had died.
****
I was realizing that it is 10 years ago almost that my mom got sick and went into the hospital. That was the start of the end of her life. Where did the 10 years go to?
A priest in charge will take services and provide pastoral care.
A specialist in interim ministry will be at a meeting on Saturday. I will be there along with my two Altar Guild colleagues.
*****
My dear friend in Edmonton who lost his wife to cancer last year at Easter sent me an article on grieving.
*****
I have a good friend who is going through a major transition herself. She is ready to be ordained but will not know for a bit whether that will happen. She knows Dana so I shared the news about her departure with her.
She phoned me back shortly after to say that her elderly cat had died.
****
I was realizing that it is 10 years ago almost that my mom got sick and went into the hospital. That was the start of the end of her life. Where did the 10 years go to?
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, May 26, 2010
Celebrating parents
For not the first or last time there was news of various parents on the Weight Watchers Nifty Fifties Board. The folks are getting older and not well and how do we deal with this?
No matter how long or short their lives were they are remembered as a part of our lives.
So we toasted my dad on May 24 - he died 35 years ago. I am older than he was and Kathi is somewhat approaching that date.
No matter how long or short their lives were they are remembered as a part of our lives.
So we toasted my dad on May 24 - he died 35 years ago. I am older than he was and Kathi is somewhat approaching that date.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Mother's Day 2010
"But as I woke up and saw the snow I heard her voice...'I could just spit', she used to say. Turns out she wasn't the Queen. But she was mine. And she's missed.
Have a wonderful Mother's Day!"
From Louise Penny's blog - one of my favourite Canadian authors who lives in the Eastern Townships south of Montreal.
There was no snow here in Ottawa but it was very chilly.
Have a wonderful Mother's Day!"
From Louise Penny's blog - one of my favourite Canadian authors who lives in the Eastern Townships south of Montreal.
There was no snow here in Ottawa but it was very chilly.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Sights and sounds of spring: past and present
Walking through my neighbourhood.
I see left over leaves from the fall and maybe some garbage blown into them.
Trees and grass and other flowering things - this is still waiting to happen.
*****
I can see my mom out in the garden - tidying up and planning.
After this outdoor activity, getting cleaned up and changed.
Maybe some sewing in her little room or knitting by the TV.
Later on, completing her Montreal Gazette crossword puzzle at her big desk.
Looking at her calendar for the next week's activities.
- Curling Club closing - any prizes?
- bridge game
- trip to Walmart
Later on there are preparations for dinner which is heated up in the toaster oven.
A glass of sherry and a gripping library mystery book - all shared in her favourite chair.
After supper and watching Coronation Street and Jeopardy, tidying up and turning off the lights.
A leisurely bath and then reading in bed and then good night.
I see left over leaves from the fall and maybe some garbage blown into them.
Trees and grass and other flowering things - this is still waiting to happen.
*****
I can see my mom out in the garden - tidying up and planning.
After this outdoor activity, getting cleaned up and changed.
Maybe some sewing in her little room or knitting by the TV.
Later on, completing her Montreal Gazette crossword puzzle at her big desk.
Looking at her calendar for the next week's activities.
- Curling Club closing - any prizes?
- bridge game
- trip to Walmart
Later on there are preparations for dinner which is heated up in the toaster oven.
A glass of sherry and a gripping library mystery book - all shared in her favourite chair.
After supper and watching Coronation Street and Jeopardy, tidying up and turning off the lights.
A leisurely bath and then reading in bed and then good night.
Monday, March 22, 2010
March 19, 2004
This is 6 years ago now and I have lived a lot since then.
My mom went into the hospital for the last time. It was another stage of the end of her life in Lachute.
It was a very unsettled time for me. As I read my journal there were lots of conversations with friends and lots of prayers.
******
From Sunday March 21
When I come back from all this other stuff with Mummy
- my house will be here
- Bishop will be around
- my work will be there
- friends will still be part of my lie
- my writing
- my computer
So this a.m. Tobi the barn cat followed me into the barn. There was snow and he walked quickly. He got inside and rolled over a few times. He came up to me and was purring. As I leaned down to pet him I could feel the tears.
*****
From Wednesday March 31
I was looking in the desk. I found some of her writings and I started to cry.
I looked in the freezer. There were buns and some squares she had made. I started to cry.
My mom went into the hospital for the last time. It was another stage of the end of her life in Lachute.
It was a very unsettled time for me. As I read my journal there were lots of conversations with friends and lots of prayers.
******
From Sunday March 21
When I come back from all this other stuff with Mummy
- my house will be here
- Bishop will be around
- my work will be there
- friends will still be part of my lie
- my writing
- my computer
So this a.m. Tobi the barn cat followed me into the barn. There was snow and he walked quickly. He got inside and rolled over a few times. He came up to me and was purring. As I leaned down to pet him I could feel the tears.
*****
From Wednesday March 31
I was looking in the desk. I found some of her writings and I started to cry.
I looked in the freezer. There were buns and some squares she had made. I started to cry.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Moms and daughters
These encounters are always coming up in my life and it reminds me of how my mom was for my sister and I.
A good friend told me that her mom had died last fall and she was missing her a lot. I reassured her that was usual.
A friend who is older and whose mom died many years ago tells me that she feels close to her when she wears the sweater that her mom knitted.
I was watching a nice movie about a girl given up for adoption and then finding her birth mother.
Your mom must be proud of you - these words were in the movie.
I know my mom was proud of my sister and I and the lives that we live. I feel sad that my dad missed out on knowing us as we grew up and had lives of our own. I was just starting working when he died and my sister was still at university.
A good friend told me that her mom had died last fall and she was missing her a lot. I reassured her that was usual.
A friend who is older and whose mom died many years ago tells me that she feels close to her when she wears the sweater that her mom knitted.
I was watching a nice movie about a girl given up for adoption and then finding her birth mother.
Your mom must be proud of you - these words were in the movie.
I know my mom was proud of my sister and I and the lives that we live. I feel sad that my dad missed out on knowing us as we grew up and had lives of our own. I was just starting working when he died and my sister was still at university.
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.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
My mom - the gardener
I was reading a blog post about gardening in the winter and planning for the next season. It is that time of year again - a New Year’s resolution for the keen gardener.My mom would study the seed catalogues and her own notes about last year’s garden. Some vegetables did well and some did not. Fortunately tomatoes did. They were my dad’s favourite.
So on the Ides of March she planted her tomato seeds. She tended them very carefully. If she came to Ottawa at Easter she would bring them with her - they were just too fragile to leave alone for a few days.
Usually they survived and thrived and produced many tomatoes. I liked the red plum the best.
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.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Long term care: two "P" words
I met up with a friend whom I had not seen in some months. Her mom is in long term care and has been for about 4 years. She talked about being there for her and doing a lot for her to ensure that she is well taken care of. It takes a lot of time and energy to be there for a parent. I know all about that.
She mentioned two “P” words that resonated with me - praying and powder.
As I moved my mom into the nursing home in March of 2005 I had many mixed emotions and it was difficult. I realize now that it was not so much seeing my mom in this situation but realizing that her life was ending.
As I walked into the home that day I met some pastoral care volunteers. They were encouraging. The Anglican priest came to see my mom and to pray with her and that mattered a lot.
I had brought from the retirement home my mom's personal effects that she was reduced to at that time of her life. She enjoyed using a nice bath powder - it was probably Yardley's Lavender or Lily of the Valley. I was told to get rid of the baby powder because it would get on the floor and make them too slippery. I took home the container and I used it myself.
This makes sense to me now but it was difficult for me to see my mom have to give up this simple pleasure of using bath powder.
****
On the Weight Watchers Nifty Fifties Board that I hang out on there are many folks having issues with elderly parents and having to be there in different ways for them.
I see my real life friends going through similar situations.
*****
I am missing my mom and remembering her again often as it comes up to the three year anniversary of her death.
I remember her fondly as I enjoy her things and especially her handicrafts in my house. I am enjoying seeing what Kathi has in her house in Vancouver.
She mentioned two “P” words that resonated with me - praying and powder.
As I moved my mom into the nursing home in March of 2005 I had many mixed emotions and it was difficult. I realize now that it was not so much seeing my mom in this situation but realizing that her life was ending.
As I walked into the home that day I met some pastoral care volunteers. They were encouraging. The Anglican priest came to see my mom and to pray with her and that mattered a lot.
I had brought from the retirement home my mom's personal effects that she was reduced to at that time of her life. She enjoyed using a nice bath powder - it was probably Yardley's Lavender or Lily of the Valley. I was told to get rid of the baby powder because it would get on the floor and make them too slippery. I took home the container and I used it myself.
This makes sense to me now but it was difficult for me to see my mom have to give up this simple pleasure of using bath powder.
****
On the Weight Watchers Nifty Fifties Board that I hang out on there are many folks having issues with elderly parents and having to be there in different ways for them.
I see my real life friends going through similar situations.
*****
I am missing my mom and remembering her again often as it comes up to the three year anniversary of her death.
I remember her fondly as I enjoy her things and especially her handicrafts in my house. I am enjoying seeing what Kathi has in her house in Vancouver.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Am I enjoying life?
A good question from a little book that I just started to read. If not - what changes do I want to make?
My horse, my house, my friends, my church life and faith journey, various volunteer activities, reading mysteries, watching DVDs and other programs taped on my new PVR - that is my life now and it is good.
Running my life and my house and keeping myself organized is what I like to do as well.
*****
I was just reading again about someone on the Nifty Fifties WW Message Board and their struggles with aging parents.
Kathi and I went through that time but my mom was never difficult to deal with. She was not well at all at the end of her life but was ready to make major changes and give up her life in Lachute and move to Ottawa. That made a difficult transition time a lot easier.
*****
I still think of her often. Just this morning I was opening my kitchen window I was remembering her kitchen window. There were little café curtains that she had made herself. At this time of year there would be some tomatoes ripening sitting on the windowsill.
My horse, my house, my friends, my church life and faith journey, various volunteer activities, reading mysteries, watching DVDs and other programs taped on my new PVR - that is my life now and it is good.
Running my life and my house and keeping myself organized is what I like to do as well.
*****
I was just reading again about someone on the Nifty Fifties WW Message Board and their struggles with aging parents.
Kathi and I went through that time but my mom was never difficult to deal with. She was not well at all at the end of her life but was ready to make major changes and give up her life in Lachute and move to Ottawa. That made a difficult transition time a lot easier.
*****
I still think of her often. Just this morning I was opening my kitchen window I was remembering her kitchen window. There were little café curtains that she had made herself. At this time of year there would be some tomatoes ripening sitting on the windowsill.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
