JUST4U & ME

Thinking of Ron......

2011-11-04T18:19:00.004-06:00

......I'm going to have eggs for supper with pepper & SALT on them!

weird.......

2011-10-22T18:20:00.002-06:00

doing the right thing, doesn't always feel right!

Il Divo - Amazing Grace

2011-10-22T18:19:00.000-06:00

goosebumps for a few reasons.........

Somtimes I wonder.....why I feel like I'm going AROUND THE BEND!

2011-10-20T08:09:00.002-06:00

From October 18th 2009-April 30th 2011.....18+ short months Daniel and I have lost all of our parents(5, I have a step-parent). Three of our loses were deaths, both of Daniel's parents and my Dad.

The other two are related to the disease of Alzhimers.....although they are living, they are loses to our lives(I am grieving their lose). As most of you know......the person with Alzhimers is my Mom, just typing that raises my blood pressure. The fifth parent is my step-parent....we are not on the same page on any level, and have not had contact in several months(a year+). With the presence of Alzhimers many issues surfaced. I honestly had no clue......past history, bitterness, personal differences were so powerful, life changing. There are times when I feel these circumstances are equal to, or worse than a death.

So today we get up, get ready for the day......try to eat, sleep, and breath normal....hopefully we will do a half decent job of it.

yesterday's post(Dad)

2011-10-19T11:34:00.004-06:00

meant to get this posted yesterday, thought of it many times......just never did it!

Two years ago(on the 18th) my Dad passed away.....sometimes it feels like he's still here, other times it feels like he's been gone for years. That may not make sense to you.....but due our circumstances it makes total sense to me. Never seen him often.....sometimes if feels like he could still in the Rimbey Care Cente. Because I never seen him often, sometimes it felt like he was already gone........been gone for years.

Here is my post from OCTOBER 19TH 2009!
GRAVESIDE SERVICE POST

Our ALASKAN adventure!

2011-06-13T11:02:00.000-06:00

Well.....we've been back for a couple of weeks, and I am sorry it's taken me so long to get some picture/trip tidbits for you......IT WAS FANTASTIC!

To start with here are a few small videos Daryl took on his Iphone!

As for the train ride.....to say we were on the edge is not exaggerating.....the heart rate of many was a little higher than usual(for me, exciting not scary)!

This trip was filled with many favorites.....what makes things a favorite? Is it visual, a scent, the sound, the taste, the people you are with, the atmosphere......what makes things etch themselves in our minds?

I hate to admit it.....shhhh don't tell anyone......I had no desire to visit Pikes Market, and it turned out to be one of my favorites! Thank you Dana....Mom, you have to go there(something like that).....great advice! I can't really explain why.......maybe because Pikes included all of the favorite place ingredients listed above....I really LOVED IT there!

Here's one of the attractions that drew my attention at Pikes.....the street performers!

THE TALL BOYS made me think of Daylan....he would get a kick out them.

the lighter side....of the day we said our final goodbye to Gido! (part 3)

2011-06-13T11:00:00.016-06:00

in this post you will find other tidbits of the day....once again....special memories!

before the service.....

Georgette gave each of the Grandchildren a $1 bill that Gido had.....I believe in his wallet, or maybe his room.

me with sweet little Daphnie.....Gido's youngest Great Granddaughter.

I was so glad to see these to boys(my nephew's)....wasn't sure if they'd be there. Daylan was glad too.....I'm sure.

after service.......

here we have ALL of the grandchildren.....so nice everyone was there......5 granddaughters & 5 grandsons! Left to right, back then front......Andrew, Dean, Ryan, Travis, Daylan, Candace, Amanda, Kim, Danica, & Dana.

this picture makes me laugh.......Candace & Daylan! (click on the photo to make it bigger...see the funny)

two BIG thank you's here.......to Emily & Emmett!!!

Emily is always helping out, can't say enough about this girl....she's a CHAMP!

I was glad Adam & Evan were there, and also this guy.....Emmett(my dear friends son). A little funny about Emmett being there....during one of the talks before the service Ashley asked, "is Emmett going to be there"?.....thought that was pretty cute, she wanted him to come. Thanks so much for coming Emmett.....and thanks for bringing him Peggy!

Not sure why they ended up eating outside....love the outdoor tables!

Dana & Miss Olive!

From the hall...Ryan & Joanne's was the first stop. We were told Ryan and Travis had a something they wanted to share with everyone......we had no idea what to expect. No pictures(if anyone has some please let me know)....so I will try and make(write) a visual for you. (coming soon)

from Ryan & Joanne's we went to Daryl & Lori's.....the shop......the perfect place to lighten things up....a familiar spot for many of us.

We tucked our sadness away for a bit.....and shared some much needed laughs! After all.....laughter is the BEST medicine.........isn't it?

a little down time....sharing some target practice, not sure who the champ was, maybe Joanne?

from Daryl & Lori's, those that were staying the night met back to the motel in Bonnyville......I don't have pictures, but it was once again it was a fun filled Wizniuk gathering! (Danica has some pictures on her blog)

3 proud Mom moments from Gido's service(part 2)

2011-06-13T09:08:00.010-06:00

...our children's part in saying goodbye to Gido.

Danica, you delivered the eulogy. As you mentioned, you were deeply honored......it was a difficult task to deliver, you did a fine job......proud of you!

Dana......your special touch to the service. Here the Priest explains the importance of the Kolach and fruit.....very important......proud of you for this, thank you!

Daylan.......you wrote and sang a song for Gido, very difficult to deliver, you DID IT........made me proud!

I will add for Dad......he is also very proud!

memories from Gido's service(part 1)

2011-05-13T07:15:00.032-06:00

Not all memories are happy ones....these photos are special memories of a very tough day.....making me thankful to be part of such an amazing family!

Brody.....Mom & Dad helping him with his sadness.

Gido's two sisters.....heavy hearts as they say goodbye to another sibling.

Natasha getting a hug from her Mom....such a simple thing, with such amazing healing!

Being chose to take someone to their final resting spot is an honor. These 6(below), boys as I call them, are Gido's grandsons, and a grandson-in-law. Front to back......Andrew, Ryan, Travis, Warren*(behind Travis), Daylan, and Dean.....thank you for taking Gido to rest in peace, next to Baba.

*sorry Warren.....you are there, but not really in the picture.

.....thank you so much for the photos Lori, and Peggy.

Memorial card

2011-05-11T10:47:00.000-06:00

Danica's eulogy for Gido

2011-05-11T10:27:00.003-06:00

We are all gathered here today to remember and honor the long and blessed life of George Wizniuk. I am deeply honored to deliver the eulogy of our dearest George. Our Dearest Gido. Our Dearest Dad.

Gido was born November 14, 1916, to Andrew and Wasylyna Wizniuk. He had 10 brothers and sisters. Gido grew up learning to be appreciative of what he had and that hard work was worth the effort. Gido learned from a young age to make the most of what you had. That could mean knitting your own sweaters, using flour sacks for clothing or being grateful for Saturday night baths. He learned to enjoy evenings with his family by passing time with cards and story telling. Gido was also known to be bossy. He liked things to be done his way or not at all. When it was time to enjoy tea it was expected to stir your tea and remove your spoon. If you were caught with your spoon lingering in your tea cup, you would find yourself stirring salt into your tea rather than sugar.

Many times you hear the saying, Our eyes are the windows to our soul. In Gido's case, it was his hands. His hands worked. His hands played. His hands prayed.

It would be next to impossible to count how many times his hands held a hand of cards or marbles. It would be easier to count the people here who haven't shared a card game with Gido rather than count those who have. Ask George for a game a crib and I don't think "NO" was in his vocabulary. He would take the time to teach you a card game or take the time to skunk you. Really, it didn't matter if you won or lost, "Another game?" would be something you often heard. He had a large collection of cards in the china cabinet but usually pulled out the old sticky deck, that was almost impossible to shuffle. Even when Gido received a battery operated card shuffler, the cards got shuffled in his hands, and the card shuffler collected dust.

One of his favorite places to use his hands was in the garden. There was always work to do in the garden and it didn't have to be his own. If you had a garden, he was going to check it out and offer some experienced advice. If your potatoes needed to come out, he was looking for the shovel before you could tell him "Don't worry." Years after his garden was no longer his own, he was there to help planting. Gido would often share garden lessons year after year. There was a certain way to plant onions. There was a certain way to pick peas. It wasn't uncommon for Gido to plant MUCH more than what could be consumed by him and Baba. 600 Onion plants. 600 hills of potatoes or 83 Tomato plants. He planted his garden in abundance. He found great pride in providing his family with food. Before heading home from a visit from the farm, you were sure to be loaded down with potatoes, peas, squash, carrots and anything extra he thought you might need. Even after you said "That's enough" he was sure to throw in a couple extra.

Saying Gido was a hard working man would be like saying Baba was a good cook. It's an obvious statement. Gido was very giving of his time and energy. He was very involved in helping the community of Glendon grow. He helped in the construction of Kev-Ski-Hi. He helped organize and plan the construction of the RCMP Hall and the Seniors Center. He would ride his bike 3miles to Franchere to delivery his cream. He ensured many of us knew the importance of a hard days work. He would take you to milk cows, chop wood, feed animals and collect eggs and all before breakfast. Just when you thought it was time to relax and celebrate a hard days work, he was there waiting with more things to do. There was never "nothing to do" in Gido' mind. Even when his body was failing his mind was always thinking about the next thing that needed to get done.

Gido was an early to bed and early to rise man. It wasn't uncommon for Gido to find his way to his cot beneath the stairs by 8pm. If you were there visiting, well you just learned to keep it down. If Gido emerged from his bed, you better decrease your decibals, and quickly. Early to bed usually had Gido awake before 6am. His early mornings usually consisted of coffee, cornflakes, and the morning radio playing loudly. Many of us have shared early mornings with Gido not because we had planned too but because his radio didn't allow sleeping in.

As Gido aged, so did his love and affection for animals. Many animals have graced the farm. Some were raised to feed his family. Others were just furry pets that brought him joy. If he was told not to feed a dog table scraps, you could rest assured that dog got extra. He had names for the squirrels that would chase away Baba's hummingbirds. He would even let roosters chase after his grandchildren if it provided a chuckle. He wouldn't think twice about running a mile after a little pig to ensure its safe return back home.

Gido loved a great deal. It wasn't an uncommon occurrence for George to travel from store to store or town to town because each place offered a different deal. We were often told "Don't flush", share the bath water and close the lights. The ironic part of his tight wallet was that it was always open when it came to his children and grandchildren. Five dollars here, ten there or money for gas. Even as we aged and politely declined his offer, he would say "You can't afford it, take it." It wasn't a fight we weren't going to win. Gido always wanted to try and fix something before even giving thought to purchasing new. It didn't matter if he knew how to fix it, he would try or often express his own thoughts on how to fix it. He would happily save you money by fixing your pair of sunglasses, a trusted old shower head, or offer advice on how to fix a motor home.

Gido was a respectful and accepting man. As he watched his children and grandchildren fall in love, he welcomed the newcomers with open arms. He would take you, proudly, on the tour of his farm. You would find a card with your name on it at Christmas even if it was your first visit or you have been in the family for years. Gido loved his family and enjoyed watching his family grow and change. Gido really wanted to be a Great Gido, and he welcomed 13 great grandchildren into his life. Gido loved a good handshake. "Come shake Gido's hand!" was something his said to his Great Grandchildren at every visit. It didn't matter if you were his grandaughter or grandson, you were going to learn the importance of a good handshake.

Gido's greatest love and accomplishment was his 69 year marriage to Baba. Gido was a loving and devoted husband to Baba. As there roles changed and Gido became the caregiver, he never missed a beat. He would ensure she got in and out cars, halls, hospitals, houses with him by her side. If you weren't helping her the right way, he would tell you so. When they were separated, nothing could keep Gido from visiting his Baba. He drove to Bonnyville too fast. He walked from Extended Care to the hospital, often lifting his cane because he was in a hurry to get to her side. She was his whole heart. When Gido spoke of Baba you could watch the tears well in his eyes because there was so much love in him. He missed her dearly but his journey was not over yet. He waited until he was called home.

George loved to raise his hands to cast his fishing rod or share a DY BOY SHA with friends and family. Even as he was preparing to leave this earth, his hands never lost their loving touch or farmer strength. As we say our final goodbye, we are extremely grateful for everything you have given us. Everything you have taught us. And the memories you leave us behind with. May you forever rest in peace and watch over us.

On behalf of the family I would like to extend sincere gratitude to the Bonnyville Hospital, Extended Care and members of the Glendon Community. Though the farm was always home, the staff did their best to make them comfortable and happy. I would also like to invite everyone to join us after the interment, right here, for lunch. Please come eat, browse pictures and share memories of a great man that we called George, Gido and Dad. Thank you!

Gido, your wish has come true....

2011-04-30T21:34:00.029-06:00

you are with Baba again......all you've really wanted since March 15th 2010.

random thoughts of the man I called Gido(my Father-in-law)

I have many memories that span over many years........for the past several years the first thought that comes to mind is his undying love for his wife of 69 years........he never left her side......even when they were separated he did whatever it took to be with her. Walked through snow and sleet(falling on it, getting stitches)at the age of 92. Gido had to walk from his residence, to the hospital......so he could sit at her bedside, be with her, often in silence....the touch of their hands was all they needed. This went on for several years with Baba's many many visits to the hospital. Kind of reminds me of how their courtship started....Gido walking Baba home after church....many miles(I believe 18 miles round trip). And in the end, no kiss.....I loved hearing him tell this story.
white mints
games of crib
going to bed early....even with a house full of company and enough noise to raise the roof. Once in awhile we were given a boisterous BE QUIET(after you were woken by our racket).
your garden.....I can't say enough about this, I am thankful I have many great photos of you in your garden, the place you loved so much. I remember the first year you were not able to have a PERFECT GARDEN(up keep and weeding got to be a bit much).......this was something that really bothered you, you were not impressed that you could not keep it weedless.
your story of the flying light(possibly a ghost)
your love of picking berries
same as above.....mushrooms
penny pincher
you always wanted to be strong.....do things for yourself! Feed yourself, walk alone(without assistance), dress yourself.....
your phone directory.....written on cardboard(the inside of a cereal box, I believe)
31
your Cornflakes breakfast
no ice in your stiff drinks
suspenders
how sentimental you become in your later years
you were the bell ringer at the Church
called bingo
your worry(both you and Baba)......is everyone okay? As soon as your hello/hi was delivered...we could count on you asking how the kids were......ALWAYS!
your Bible.....well read, tattered pages
I can hear you stirring the cream and sugar into your coffee........long after the sugar was dissolved and the cream was mixed, the sound of clinking....spoon to cup
wanting to head home after a visit.......you would go to warm up the vehicle(even during the summer months)
go to great lengths to fix something before you consider buying new
getting up at the crack of dawn and turning the radio on(what seemed to be full blast when one was trying to sleep)
Blue Jays
your love of fishing
National Geographic magazines
envelopes for scratch pads
the efforts you made to do things, when staying at home would be so much easier(attending Daylan's graduation at the age of 91).....I will never forget this. Attending your sisters funeral in Edmonton only a few months ago. Now at 94.....very aware of your Granddaughter Amanda's upcoming wedding....hoping you could make it to the wedding in Saskatchewan.
how you fought to NOT give up your drivers license......did not pass four times in Bonnyville so you headed to Vilna(or maybe Spedden)....and passed!
you loved the color purple
don't use so much water....you'll drain the well
your last REAL supper was at the farm on Good Friday.....so glad I was there!
for many years you thought each Christmas was his last
your deep unspoken love for your family....the words I love you were not often heard, but there was no doubt the love was deep, and always there! Saying I love you 10 times a day doesn't mean there is more love than those that don't say the words..........as the old saying goes, "the proof is in the pudding"!
back in the early days(when we were first married)I remember the EARLY Sunday morning phone calls. There were no phone plans like now, it was expense to call, and calling on Sunday was cheaper. Without fail at 7ish the phone would ring. It was usually Baba on the other end of the phone, but it seemed it was Gido that was behind the call, he would tell her....call the kids! Calls were short and sweet, especially if there was nothing new......how's the weather was often the main part of the conversation. If there was ever a call mid week it usually meant something was wrong.
Speaking of phone calls......in later years Gido wouldn't be on the phone but you could often hear him in the back ground telling Baba what to ask, and asking her what was said......funny!
cottage cheese perogies
Gido often said, when it's your time....it's your time!
How he wanted to live longer than his fathers age of 89

it's seems I've given up over here! (don't fall over with the site of this post)

2011-04-25T08:19:00.017-06:00

think about posting often, but never seem to make it over here? Can you believe this is my first post of 2011(bad, bad, bad....I know)!

so much has happened since my last post......do I dare try and recall?

The first thing that pops in my mind is the week in March when I attended three funerals.......still weighs on my mind!
We've been to Mexico(Daryl & Lori, Daniel & I).......fun, fun.....brings a smile to my face every time I think about it!
Spring & Summer is filling quickly, most weekends BOOKED!
Daylan has wrapped his 3 year university....with the exception of finals!
I've been to Nashville
does not like, always missing Dana.....I don't like to wish for things, but I do wish she was closer to family.
the Wizniuk family invited a new member in early Jan........Kim and Dustin are the proud Mom & Dad of little Thade.
Natasha is a little reading machine...she is now a reader of chapter books(big step in the world of reading)......WTG Natasha!
We just had a GREAT Easter......nothing better than family fun!
Seen Mom & Gido on the weekend.......I feel like I'm part of a sad country song when Daniel drops me off to see Mom, and he heads to see his Dad........two of our parents in two different long term care facilities in the same town...one 94, and the other 69(ya, it sucks).
Danica is working her butt off......getting in shape!
My brother and I both received an e-mail on Good Friday from someone telling us how wrongly we are handling the situation with our Mom. This came from a person that is not close to the situation, someone that knows very little of what they are speaking of(misinformed).....and yet feel they have a right to judge.....tell us we are wrong. I just don't get some people? I can't tell you how that knocks you down(even though the opinion has been formed from incorrect information). It really makes you wonder what most people think, what they see from the outside, the opinions they form from what they hear from others? This has for sure taught me to never judge, it's not our place, it's not fair.......especially when you have never walked in the same shoes! (WOW....this was a post in itself...LOL)
Can't wait for Tyson to become a little talking machine!
When does the golf course open?
getting very anxious for Chris & Amanda's wedding
Ashley.....LOVES Justin Bieber!
In less than a month Daryl and I will leave for our Alaskan cruise.......can't wait, this should be an adventure and a half!
Federal election right around the corner.........losing interest in voting!
can't wait for the ROYAL WEDDING!

seriously....what am I missing? If you're reading this I've missed something you think I'd post.......REMIND ME!

Random thoughts(SO MANY...no particular order)......2010!

2010-12-21T08:36:00.008-07:00

not complete......I'm just getting started! (LOL.....this may be my Christmas letter)

thinking of Baba & Mom.......Gido and Jeep(super rough year for both of them)! (I know you are probably wondering about how I grouped the names.....but this year that's how my thoughts are(not necessarily the order).

Kim & Dustin as they wait for the safe arrival of their 1st child!

Ryan and his family.....just lost their dog yesterday(hit by a vehicle on the highway).

Thinking of cousin Ashley.....his family, and his Mom & Dad(and sister Bonnie), they've had such a hard year!

Since a HOME Christmas with Mom is no longer....I am thankful to be included in the Knapp Christmas...thanks for the invite Betty!

I think tomorrow will be the annual, sleep by the Christmas tree sleepover with the girls.....Tyson(2) might join us this year!

Matt Costa - Astair

2010-12-02T22:13:00.002-07:00

now for the real thing......I think Daylan does a pretty good job(sorry for the poor video quality on Daylan's take)!

Daylan pops by for a visit.....and sings this(Astair by Matt Costa)!

2010-12-02T22:08:00.001-07:00

if you stop by the new Starbucks in Camrose tomorrow you might be able to catch him singing it........Self Titled playing at the grand opening!

2010-10-31T10:22:00.000-06:00

1 year

2010-10-18T19:28:00.007-06:00

today it's one year since my Dad passed away......at this moment he was very near the end, passed away peacefully just after 9.

I have missed him.......it feels strange! When he was living I only seen him once in awhile, and never had much communication with him.....so I wonder why......feels strange!

If you knew him........think of him now and again, and smile.....that would be nice!

Thanks for the pictures Betty....taken in July 2009!

last picture of him with his two sisters......he was so happy to see them, and had a pretty mean handshake(and wouldn't let go)!

One of the very few picture of us.....taken on the same day as the above picture!

this song was played at Daniel's friends Mother's service.....she had Alzhimers(died after she had a stroke)! Very touching.....close to home!

2010-10-14T11:44:00.003-06:00

part of the reason I love this place(our home)!

2010-09-28T13:44:00.001-06:00

click to enlarge

2010-09-20T08:59:00.003-06:00

To HECK with all the RAMBLING.......how about a few picutres!

2010-09-04T12:01:00.006-06:00

Banff candy store......enough said!

This little bird house made me think of several people......isn't it cut, great crafting project for those that love the woods/bush!

someone turned 30!

Favorite spot in Banff......Bow Falls!

Poor Oscar....Poor Dana!

Love this picture......

great time.....except for my stomach...round and round we went waiting for big waves from those on the ground, that did me in!

in Banff, thought of Daylan & Daniel when I saw the name of this store!

on the SU cruise......5 generations of SU demos earn cruise, quite the accomplishment!

I put them in, I got to take them off!

SO BAD......I can't believe what a BAD BLOGGER I've turned into!!!

2010-09-03T18:47:00.018-06:00

catch up.......where do I start?

things that come to mind....in no particular order

Dana moved to B.C.
Auntie Doris & Uncle Mike's Anniversary
Mom
Ashley need stitches
Our neighbors lose their infant Granddaughter
Great visit at Wolf lake(family & A BEAR)
Wipeout audition for Daylan
someone turned 30
Friends of our find out their 6 year old Grandson has a brain tumor.....thinking of them as they wait for surgery, and recovery!
Daniel wins the pair tournament in Camrose, qualifies him to attend the Canadian finals in Comox B.C.
BVJ
Got to go flying with my nephew Andrew......wanted to do this for a long time, happy I got the chance!
Canada hosts the Olympics.....I miss all the excitement!
My visit to Salt Lake City....Stampin' Up! convention
Earning the SU incentive trip to Alaska......very excited about this, it was A LOT of work!
Mom
Two babies on the way......Daniel's side!
Visit to Saskatoon, family engagement party.
Tyson starts walking
Dana lost Oscar
Quick trip to Banff..........it was GREAT!
We are now landlords!
Mom
Natasha passes grade 1
We went on our 1st cruise....Southern Carribean(SU), LOVED IT!
Annual Family Campout.....started in 1998! Because of another family gathering one year we did not have a campout.......that makes 2010 was our 11th!
Daylan is moving it out, very excited for him.....it's time, he's a big boy!
Daryl & Lori work their asses off at Danica & Adam's being forman's for the fence project.....there is no other way to put it! They had help yes, but they did the majority of the work.....and it was LOTS!
Emily gets her learners!
Daylan cut his dreads off.
We enter into the Empty Nest part of our life!
Auntie Theresa has heart surgery......happy to report, after several complications she is now doing fine.
Danica rode in the MS bike tour.....and did a mighty fine job!
Family member is hit by a drunk driver.......thankfully no one was seriously injured!
Georgette breaks her ankle.......recovery has been difficult.
Shirlee & Amanda go shopping for a wedding dress.......I cannot wait for this wedding(July 9th, 2011).

there's more I know......it will come to me as I start to update!

My lack of updating comes from the fact that I am still feeling like a grizzly bear. Sometimes I sit and wonder why, then I think at the year we've had........not the best!

Last October I lost my Dad.....although we were not close, it's been tough! Being with him when he passed was comforting and difficult at the same time...........so many memories surface during these times, many of them are not pleasant. As I type this I am relieved to say the process of his estate is VERY close to being final......I'm not much for paper work, legal stuff........will be glad when I can say it's over!
Just before Christmas(Dec. 18th to be exact)Mom became a resident of the Vilna Lodge. A VERY difficult time which caused HUGE issues in our family. This coupled with many other related happenings has caused tons of stress(and still does). We have become a very dis-functional family. Sadly, I don't see things changing anytime soon........hence I have basically lost my Stepfather of 40ish years.
Although Mom is still with us, she is not.....I really feel like I am morning her while she is still alive.
Add to this, in March we lost Baba after many times of nearly losing her. She was such a pilar in our(Daniel's)family.......miss her so so much! Without her, we of course often think of Gido(nearing 94). What is he going through...........the lose of his partner of 69 years is beyond what I can comprehend......poor guy, although he seems fine.....he is not the same, how could he be?!

Throw in the mix everyday excitement/stess......and you have yourself one Mama Grizzly Bear.....what can I say!

As you can see the good for sure out weighs the bad.......but the bad is much heavier......must keep chin up!

Have Kidlets....check this out....it is the season!

2010-06-16T07:12:00.001-06:00

http://bubbleblowers.com/homemade.html

2010-06-08T16:37:00.000-06:00

This one is for Ashley & Natasha(and anyone that likes to dance).....Grandma would like to see you dance to this song!

2010-05-31T10:35:00.003-06:00

Mother's Day Post #2(on the lighter side)

2010-05-09T08:26:00.002-06:00

To those that are regular visitors, you know I have posted this for the past few Mother's Days......and here it is again, hope you get a chuckle!

Mother's Day Post #1(first two pictures taken yesterday, day before Mother's day)!

2010-05-09T08:17:00.007-06:00

I want you both back.......I know we don't always get what we want!

2010-05-07T07:55:00.001-06:00

The BUTTERFLY FARM....I forgot how hard it is to get decent pictures of BUTTERFLIES....they don't land often and when they do it's just for a second!

2010-05-03T13:07:00.006-06:00

this blue butterfly was amazing(picture does not do it justice, not even close).....but wouldn't land anywhere! The butterfly guy caught one for me, and held it so I could get a picture(he said they rarely land during the day)!

THE CRUISE! (where do I start).....still working on this post!

2010-05-03T10:20:00.007-06:00

IT WAS FABULOUS....as I think back, it's hard to decide what was the best(on board or ashore)? BOTH were great.....take a look! It seems I have WAY more ashore pictures(many taken from on board, from our balcony(thanks Stampin' Up!)).......

our home for the week!

this was my favorite beach(St. Lucia I believe).....BEAUTIFUL! Bonus for me......there were trees along the beach......I could be in the shade...LOL!

we snorkeled here!

The beach where Daniel got this(back full of blisters.....yes, he should know better).....he was not in the shade as much as I was(we were there for MAYBE 2 hours)

he did go and visit the ships medical office(two days after the burn)......by that time it was blistering so there wasn't much they could do!

had lunch in the shade............breathtaking view!

dessert......on board!

taken from our balcony!

us with one of the great drivers we had.....it was his idea to take the picture.....very nice guy!

these flowers were EVERYWHERE....beautiful!

taken on board!

in the casino....on board!

taken from our balcony!

Johnny Rockets(on board)

this lady was wringing wet, very hot......she was dancing out in the middle of a walkway.........on concrete!

this is were we ate our dinner for the past week.....imagine!

Did you know the Captain's of the ships were not allowed to bring the ships in, dock in foreign countries? Each country supplies their own Captain, and they bring the ships into the docks! The countries Captains are brought out on a small vessel......then they take over......interesting!
so here is the Captain climbing on the ship......see the gap between the two boats? He has no life jacket on, and is on a rope ladder.......what the hey!

CRUISING TIDBITS!
Our rooms were cleaned(beds made)twice a day!
We went to a nude beach(did not participate.....didn't leave the cab, but got my zoom lens out....won't post pictures)!

FUNNY(taken from Danica's blog)!

2010-05-03T10:18:00.003-06:00

Our very own Chris(Amanda's boyfriend)live on Sask. radio CKOM!

2010-04-14T22:28:00.003-06:00

http://www.newstalk650.com/audio/john-gormley-live/20100409-john-gormley-live-april-9-2010-hour-3

Chris's story starts at 11:57 of the broadcast......GOOD JOB CHRIS!

CHECK THIS OUT!

2010-04-09T12:35:00.001-06:00

my cruise packet just arrived!

Chuckle for the day!(thanks Georgette)

2010-03-30T15:27:00.003-06:00

A husband in his back yard is trying to fly a kite. He throws the kite up in the air, the wind catches it for a few seconds, then it comes crashing back down to earth. He tries this a few more times with no success.
All the while, his wife is watching from the kitchen window,
Muttering to herself how men need to be told how to do everything.
She opens the window and yells to her husband, "You need a piece of tail."
The man turns with a confused look on his face and says, "Make up your mind. Last night, you told me to go fly a kite.

Thanks Lori(click on image to enlarge)

2010-03-30T15:24:00.001-06:00

2010-03-30T13:20:00.003-06:00

Winter Exercise program...

Take one Weetabix.

Take an Aero chocolate bar.

Crumble the Aero over the Weetabix.

Voila!

AEROBIX !

HAPPY EASTER

2010-03-29T13:23:00.000-06:00

CHECK IT OUT HERE!

Daylan wrote this song on Feb.11th 2010(his 20th birthday)

2010-03-26T19:44:00.009-06:00

He and Danica revised it a bit to sing at Baba's service.

This was in the kitchen when he was practicing.....sounded much better when he performed it at the hall, with a mike and amplifier. This recording is done on his laptop....not the greatest sound!

Chorus:

Well Did I make the most of my time here,

in this place called earth.

Will my kids remember, or forget in time

too bad i cant wait and see.

Will that house i built be cared for through the years

or will it only crumble to the ground

What people will remember of me when im gone,

ooooooooooooooo when im gone.

Verse 2:

Old photographs and videos will fill the boxes in my closet

all the important parts of our life, stuffed into forgotten corners.

Generations yet to come will dismiss them as relics, void of any worth

priceless momentos of another life and better days gone by.

Verse 3:

The sand in the hour glass of my life has slowly drained away.

All the small decisions I have made, has helped me leave a lasting legacy.

So dry your tears, and cry no more, for I'm happily at Heaven's door.

We'll meet again somewhere down the road, for now remember me.

Chorus:

Well Did I make the most of my time here,

in this place called earth.

Will my kids remember, or forget in time

too bad i cant wait and see.

Will that house i built be cared for through the years

or will it only crumble to the ground

What people will remember of me when im gone,

ooooooooooooooo when im gone.

Baba's Eulogy as written by Granddaughter Amanda.....delivered by Granddaughter Candace(excellenet job girls)

2010-03-26T18:34:00.003-06:00

A Tribute to Baba from the Grandchildren

Natalie Krawchuck, was born on September 10, 1918 in Rife, Alberta . NATASKA became her name when her first grade teacher nicknamed her this and it stuck with her from then on. Our family gathered this past September to celebrate a milestone - her 91^st birthday.

Baba was one of 12 children born to Helen and Fred Krawchuck. Her siblings – some near, some far, were always in her heart. She had a special bond with her sister Doris, who she spent countless hours with, as her and Mike lived nearby. Baba spent most of her life in Glendon, but also lived in Toronto and Victoria. While in Glendon, she met George Wizniuk. Gido told us a story about when he met baba, he wanted to walk her home from church – well he walked her…9 miles there and 9 miles home – he hoped after the long walk he would get just a kiss, but NO kiss! On February 9, 1941, Baba married her best friend and life companion George. Baba and Gido celebrated their 69^th wedding anniversary this February. They stayed true to their vows....they took care of each other, for better or for worse.

Baba and Gido raised their four children – Georgette, Ted, Shirlee and Daniel on a farm at Giford, and in 1951 moved to their long term residence on a farm outside of Glendon. Baba loved the farm – she spent hours in her beloved garden – she always made sure she had tons of peas for the grandkids to shell under the shady tree by the house but heaven forbid we got caught eating any. She always had plenty vegetables and made sure her family could take some home when they visited. All of us have fond memories of spending summers out at the farm with baba and gido – helping with the chores, taking a hot lunch out to gido in the field ,somehow she always knew where he would be around lunchtime, helping in the garden, picking berries and mushrooms, and tending to or often sleeping with the baby chicks. She also took good care of the farm dogs – she was the only person who would ever take the time to make chop for them daily.

Baba loved all the holidays – she made them so special as our huge family would travel to the farm at Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas and pack into the house to celebrate. Somehow it never seemed that full as everyone always had a place to sleep and a belly full of her wonderful cooking – and no one got away without the Kutya on their plate at Christmas. She always had treats for the kids too – homemade baking, candies in the squirrel dish, or gum in the medicine cupboard. Baba also made each of her grandkids a special Easter basket with Paska in them and led us on a Easter basket hunt every year. Baba also never forgot a birthday – she never missed a phone call and a card on anyone’s birthdays. She especially liked her 7:00 o’clock Sunday morning phone calls.

Baba was always busy and always surrounded by family and friends – whether she was curling at the rink, floor curling at the Seniors Hall, painting every piece of outside furniture, or wood she could get her hands on, fishing ,especially when her grandkid tagged along, gardening, playing cards or picking berries and mushrooms so she could have mushrooms and cream for supper. She could have spent all day picking berries and mushrooms in the bush. She also loved her “stories” and often made time in the afternoons to catch up on what was happening in all her soaps. She also loved watching sports – often tuning it to the ball games so her and Gido could watch together. Baba and gido had many good friends and would spend hours visiting, eating, having a drink, and playing cards with these treasured friends. Baba also never missed the opportunity to participate in the Glendon parade or take her grandkids to the church on the hill for Ukrainian Easter.

Baba’s biggest claim to fame was her perogies. Without a doubt she made the best perogies in the world. She always had perogies ready for every family gathering or for 600 people at the hall as the Head Cook for the Glendon Catering Club. She wasn’t just great at cooking perogies though – she was great at cooking anything she made, especially when she could add tons of garlic. We will never forget her chicken soup, borscht, nachingka, pidpenky, studnatz, homemade oreo cookies, pampushky, and cinnamon buns. She loved to cook...and her family loved to eat her cooking!

Baba was also very crafty. Her most cherished creation was her Ukrainian Easter eggs. She made the most beautiful Ukrainian Easter eggs, but was often modest about the details of her creations. She even started making Ukrainian ostrich eggs and made one for every member of her family (14 eggs in total!) so we would have them as a keepsake. Her other talent was her Korovia’s – Ukrainian wedding cakes. Her cakes were so amazing they went all over the world. She made one for all her children and as many as she could for her grandkids when they got married.

Baba was a selfless person – she always put her family first. Even when her health was ailing and we would ask how she was, her response was always – “not too bad”, and then before you could get another word in, she was asking questions about your family and how they were doing. It was always about someone else, and never her.

Baba was also a worrier – a love kind of worry as she was always looking out for the people she loved. If you were fishing, she wanted to make sure you were being careful, if you were ski-dooing, she wanted to make sure you didn’t go too fast, if you were traveling she always wanted to know when you left and when you arrived. She always worried until she knew her loved ones were safe and sound. I still remember every time we traveled to the farm she would be waiting at the window for us to pull up the driveway – it was always a sense of relief to her as we walked down that long path up to their house.

All four of Baba’s children and their partners, ten grandchildren and the eleven great grand children she had a chance to meet, had a special place in her heart. Family was the love of her life and she would have done anything for us from killing moths in the middle of the night under the bed, spending hours making cabbage patch dolls one year for Christmas, buying our warts from us for 25 cents so we didn’t have to suffer from them, spending countless hours playing 31 and marbles, even giving us the nickels from her change purse to play and letting us keep our winnings. She would french braid or put rags in our hair in the evenings. Baba also told great bedtime stories to help us fall asleep.

Baba hardly refused a babysitting request from our parents – she didn’t want to miss an opportunity to spend time with her grandkids. We all spent a lot of time at the farm and as we look back and remember our time spent with her – we all wonder how she handled us! She was a strong woman and it showed. It was always a great trip out to the farm....until we spent more than a weekend there...suddenly baba wasn’t so patient anymore! I think we all heard Baba’s famous saying “Don’t be so stupid” or “eah” – yet she always had a little smirk on her face when she said it. She was always yelling at us to go to bed or not to have any pop before bed so we kids would’nt “pee the beds”, cleaning up ashes covering the entire basement from the old stove when the boys got into it, cleaning up our messes from going through her old clothes and playing fashion show, tidying up the beds after we were jumping on them, and we all felt terrible when we broke the hands off her glow in the dark Jesus figurine. We all knew Baba meant business when she would pull open the kitchen drawer – we knew that meant out came the wooden spoon and we would scatter! We always knew we were in trouble and that she had had enough when her and Gido started bickering in Ukrainian so we wouldn’t understand them.

No matter how much trouble we caused her, baba loved every minute of her time spent with her family and the days when we all gathered at the farm. It was her remarkable strength that became the glue for our family and the reason we remain such a strong family today. We all have so many great memories of our baba. She brought traditions into our family that will be passed down for years to come as our family continues to grow.

When we reminisce about Nataska we will remember her dark black hair that never completely turned to grey, her warm smile, her helping hands, her sense of humor, the special bond she had with her friends, the smell of her kitchen, her many talents, her love of the farm, her strength, her children , her grand and great grandchildren whom made her world go round and the long and loving relationship she had with her life partner George.

As Ryan said, today isn’t about mourning the loss of this special woman – Baba wouldn’t have wanted that. Instead, we are celebrating the life of a strong, selfless, and beautiful wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.

We would like to thank the staff at the Bonnyville hospital and extended care home for taking such good care of our baba over the past few years, as it became her home. On behalf of our family, thank you all for being here to help us celebrate the life of Nataska Wizniuk.

another, no words needed photo

2010-03-23T13:24:00.006-06:00

our three during the family viewing on Friday

There are no words to describe what this picture means to me.......thank you again Lori!

2010-03-23T13:02:00.000-06:00

a few others....

2010-03-23T12:47:00.008-06:00

the above and below pictures were taken before we entered the main part of the hall for the service.

I think Daylan, Gido, and Amanda were watching the little munchkins run around.

The Grandchildren(I will be giving this picture to Gido, he will love it))

2010-03-23T11:34:00.006-06:00

photo taken by Lori on March 20th, the day of Baba's service.

one week......

2010-03-22T14:06:00.000-06:00

she's been gone!

2010-03-21T18:38:00.006-06:00

This piece of music was played at the service......very moving as Amazing Grace always is! (I believe credit for this goes to Amanda.....thank you)

I forgot to mention....

2010-03-18T07:57:00.001-06:00

very mischievous(scaring people)!

thanks Daryl for borrowing these pictures.....and Lori for sending them to me

2010-03-17T14:10:00.006-06:00

these 3 pictures were part of Daryl and Lori's wedding.

Shirlee was telling me how her Mom and Dad would do almost anything to get to town for curling..........freezing cold, snowing, blowing, drifting and they would head to town for curling!

this was hilarious......look who can't sing because she's laughing so hard! I was there that day.......Nellie and her crew were the life of the bonspiel!

Lori SERIOUSLY made my day!

2010-03-17T10:18:00.001-06:00

the Pussy Willow are out..........YA!!!

Baba's Obituary

2010-03-17T07:27:00.005-06:00

March 17th Edmonton Journal

Nataska Wizniuk
WIZNIUK, Nataska On March 15, 2010, Mrs. Nataska Wizniuk of Glendon, passed away at the age of 91 years. She is survived by her loving husband of 69 years, George; her children, Georgette (Russ) Drolet, Ted (Judy), Shirlee Olekson and Daniel (Donna); 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; one sister, Doris (Mike) Filipchuk; sisters-in-law, Anne Krawchuk and Sennie Krawchuk; brother-in-law, Paul Tomen; also numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by two grandchildren, William and Kenneth; parents, Fred and Helen Krawchuk; four brothers, Lotic, Patrick, William and Paul; five sisters, Neda, Minnie, Nina, Lillian and Pauline. Funeral Service Saturday, March 20 at 10:30 a.m. at the R.C.M.P. Century Hall, Glendon. Reverend Father J. Lipinski officiating with interment in St. Peter's & Paul's Ukrainian Orthodox Cemetery, Nova Bukowina. If desired, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or a charity of one's choice c/o Box 425, St. Paul, AB T0A 3A0. Yewchin's Funeral Chapel Ltd. St. Paul. 1-780-645-5177

Love, Love, Love these two photos.....the greater the picture, the harder it is to realize the reality of this!

2010-03-17T00:06:00.008-06:00

More great pictures!

2010-03-17T00:00:00.003-06:00

Our dearest Baba

2010-03-16T14:37:00.006-06:00

This photo was taken at Glendon Seniors hall during the September Birthday party in 2007....Baba turned 88 that year. She is proudly wearing her Ukranian blouse made for her by her daughter Georgette.

conitued from previous post.......a few thoughts

2010-03-16T08:39:00.010-06:00

this is the day after.....tonight I'm wondering if this is real....I have spent the day looking at pictures of Baba. Although I enjoy it......see her smiling face makes it hard to believe what happened yesterday....it's not real yet!

Baba and her jet black hair.......I can't tell you how many times I've heard people ask her if she coloured her hair........I think she was pretty proud of her non-aging black hair.

I recall Gido telling a story(I have to ask him if I have the story straight)! When he was thinking he wanted to court Baba in the early 30's it seems the thing to do was walk someone home from church.....so he did! He told me that he hoped after the long walk he would get a kiss..........well after nine long miles of walking, NO kiss! He then had another nine mile walk to get back home!!! Not sure how many times this happened? This is was beginning of their long life together........with that kind of start one might think things wouldn't last.....but then again, maybe the start is what helped make it last......I'm sure Baba knew what see was doing!

Baba bought Daylan's mononucleousis warts....I forget what she paid, yes she gave him money, and guess what.......in no time flat she had the warts.

I have to get to bed(12:30)so I will fill in tomorrow!

Blessing of the graves

Easter bread

Baba's Wheat

Watching for Gido coming to the house while Daniel and I talked on the phone!

Sleeping with the baby chicks

Dana pouring on the faucets

how on the ball she was with birthdays......

late 70's early 80's, calling on Sunday mornings........7:00 a.m.

Daylan smelling Baba cooking bacon, even when she wasn't

Baba telling fibs....a bear is going to get you, the police are going to take you away

her Love of Christmas......and having to have a tree!

the hardest I ever laughed with her.......

the saddest I've ever seen her......

giving me a lesson in picking mushrooms(I think I was her worst student)

then of course there's the turkey story

She's gone......2 o'clock this afternoon

2010-03-15T15:13:00.002-06:00

A few thoughts......

2010-03-15T07:10:00.021-06:00

a very dreaded moment is upon us......

Daniel headed to Red Deer this morning(his regular Monday morning), and got a call from the hospital saying if he, or anyone is coming, they best get there. He relayed this message to his brother and two sisters.........as it seems now they will all be with Baba. I can't tell you what(I believe)this would mean to her, and how comforting it will be for Gido(he will need them). Our mothers bring us into the world.......although very difficult, it's seems right we be there/help them leave it.

There are many words that describe my dear Mother-in-law, this is the first one that comes to mind,

Selfless

-adjective

having little or no concern for oneself, esp. with regard to fame, position, money, etc.; unselfish.

from what I know of her, she ALWAYS put others first.......especially the little ones!

Firstly, I think of Gido............losing a lifelong partner of 69 years is beyond my comprehension.

Her children......will think of them all day, this is going to be so hard.....

Auntie Doris...........she will lose her sister(her last living sibling), I called her last night.......she visited with Baba last Sunday.

My children have had the privilege(as I did)of having the best Baba/Grandma in the world...... what more could you ask for.....she gave them so much!

I think of Nellie K., probably Baba's longest dearest friend........in today's world they would be referred to as BFF.......she visited Baba this week, how hard must this be? Baba 91.5 and Nellie nearing 90(I'm sure)!

I think also think of my Mom, who loved Baba........I have TONS of memories of them laughing together, having a great old time! It might have been painting, picking berries, plucking chickens......after the work was done they usually enjoyed a glass of wine(or a shot), then a few more laughs. Not that you want people to mourn, but it feels stange to me that Mom will not even realize one of her very dear friends will soon be gone(that's another story).

The past several years have been hard for Baba.......her health not giving her many breaks. Back surgery, strokes, heart troubles, kidney problems......other ailments that come with aging. To the say the least, she has be stronger than strong........she has amazed me many times!!

Because our recent memories are difficult ones....I am choose to think back a bit, back to the day when she of full of life, back to the days when she had a good hardy laugh(the ones from the belly). The days when she could single handly put on a meal fit for a King(if the King liked Ukranian food). She could cook for any number of people......whether it be in her own kitchen, or the Glendon hall.......650 for supper, no problem(she had help at the hall)!!! She was worrier........a love kind of worry.....always looking out for others. She wanted to be sure everyone was healthy, safe, not in any type of danger........hoping no one would get hurt. If you went fishing she wanted to make sure you were careful, ski-dooing, traveling, anything.........until she knew you were back, safe and sound......she worried! This never changed, even the last time I visited her and she could only get out a few words.....it was, "how's the kids"(hoping all was well, they were okay)? At present we all think of Gido being the gardner......I think back to the day when the garden was Baba's(Gido was usually in the field).......and what a garden it was! After the garden.....there were her flowers, she LOVED FLOWERS.......and she loved getting flowers as a gift.......I've heard her say many times....bring me flowers when I'm living so I can enjoy them, not when I die. Her love for crafting, she has made, crafted so many things...........and for so many people! Probably her most cherished creation is her Ukranian Easter eggs........when chicken eggs got to be hard to complete(due to the size), she wasn't ready to give up her talent, so she switched to ostrich eggs..........making everyone in the family one......each child, and grandchild....that would be 14 of them(and I think there a few extras)!!! How could I forget her Korovia's(Ukranian wedding cake).......how many of these did she make.......they've gone to many location from the east to west coast, and many places in between!

story still in progress.......above post!

I AM CANADIAN

2010-03-02T08:12:00.001-07:00

Hope you get a chuckle out of this!

2010-02-23T09:23:00.001-07:00

WARNING: This may be borderline R rated???

Another one for you Daylan

2010-02-13T12:35:00.005-07:00

I was thinking you might like this one!

HALLELUJAH

I hope to hear you singing this from the basement....you would do a good job!

As of yesterday.....

2010-02-12T22:31:00.005-07:00

my teenage mothering years are OVER!

Happy 20th Birthday Daylan!

Tonight when watching the Olympic Opening Ceremonies with K.D. Lang performing this song......

Daylan asked......"who the hell is K.D. Lang"? This ones for you Daylan, here she is in her prime!

Today is a SPECIAL day...69 years of marriage for Baba & Gido!

2010-02-09T09:15:00.006-07:00

AMAZING!!

Here is a picture I found on my blog....Christmas 2005

To my regular visitors!

2010-01-24T13:48:00.002-07:00

Without going into details.......just wanted to let you know, that YES......we are still pounding our heads up against THE WALL!!!

DAMM!!!!

Tonight's show.....FILTHY McNASTYS(on Whyte Ave.)

2010-01-23T21:24:00.008-07:00

this is the one where he was whistling......I like that!!

playing the harmonica

Olympic Relay Camrose(Friday Jan. 15th)

2010-01-17T13:02:00.011-07:00

all photos taken by Danica S.

What a beautiful weather we had for being outside most of the day......nice and warm!

This official photographer took a picture of Tyson, similair to the one directly below!

Torch bearer from 1988 proudly wearing his track suit from that Olympic relay!

Waiting for the 2010 torch to arrive...this man will bring the torch to the opening ceremonies!!

here it comes!

very PROUD Camrose resident!

The last leg of the Camrose portion of the relay....ending at the police station!

Bawlf school banner!

Malanka 2010(Jan. 16th)

2010-01-17T12:43:00.005-07:00

photo taken by Gy S.
Had a great time last night......3 of the 6 dance groups included family members!!

Here's our entertainers.......without a doubt the senior of the group was the most nervous! Good job EVERYONE!

I know it's not NEW YEARS EVE yet......but have a listen!

2009-12-15T07:31:00.004-07:00

Kenny G MILLENIUM MIX Auld Lang Syne

I'm thinking these photos might be worth a few $$'s...think I can cash in?

2009-12-13T19:13:00.004-07:00

Yep.....me & Tiger......we're K-I-S-S-I-N-G...........LOL!

NEVER AGAIN!

Mr. Tyson turns 1(yesterday...the 12th)

2009-12-13T16:31:00.004-07:00

The party was fun.........Tyson got lots of things with wheels.....his new favorite thing, too cute!!

Ya.......one picture, oh brother......dead battery!!!

Once again I am reminded how fast little ones are, and how a point & shoot just doesn't cut it in the world of a 1 year old....he is FAST......he WAS looking right at me.......then.....NOT!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Tyson, you are a sweet little boy!

Please keep Mom & Jeep in your thoughts and prayers today!

2009-12-08T09:25:00.012-07:00

This will be one of the worst, if not the worst day.......in both their lives!!! They are being separated much too soon!

Mom has been my first concern in all of this........but today I am thinking of Jeep, I don't know how he is going to make the day?

Daryl & Lori are also trying to survive Dec. 8th......they both deserve a medal!!!

I can't for this awful day to be over.....not that tomorrow is going to be a piece of cake, but it should be better than today!?

this year.....it's 6 years on the 6th!!!

2009-12-06T19:56:00.008-07:00

Grandma passed away 6 years ago today! She has been on my mind quite a bit lately.........I'm searching for her positive, look on the bright side attitude.....I'm not doing nearly as good of a job of it as she did.....I'll keep trying?

this gift tag was the last one Grandma signed for Daylan......I'm thinking it was probably 2002(her last Christmas)......it's been on our tree every year since, and will be for many years to come!!

I should probably explain myself....sometimes things don't read like they are meant!

2009-11-30T15:52:00.007-07:00

This is regarding my post of Nov. 19th.....near the bottom where I said, "Daryl and I have to play thief again"!

For those that know what's happening with Mom, you probably know what I meant........but others may wondering the the sam I'm talking about???

Well, the play thief AGAIN means what is sounds like, we took something a while back! The something was my baby album, which Mom refuses to part with, but always said it would be mine some day!!! As time passes and she becomes more and more confused, I started to feel the only way I was going to get it would be to take it, save it from the elements(in the shanty)!

As for playing thief this time, I'm referring to some family history. Mom has gathered family history for years.......she is now saying she doesn't know who these people are(names listed on documents), and what do I need this stuff for???? So.....it was thought that it might be a good idea to have the history removed in fear she might throw it away? The plan was to mention it to Pa, then take it(if he agreed).....with the intention of having it in a safe place.....in the end it never happened!!

It's very odd going against what someone is telling you, when you know they would really want something different! I know she would tell me not to touch it, and I also know she would want the history protected!!! Once again, I say.........I HATE THIS!

Daylan and Warren

2009-11-30T14:21:00.009-07:00

Daylan has be bit by the performing bug! He's been doing a lot of singing and playing in the basement lately. Him and Warren decided it was time to go live, for real, in a public place......the song writers open mike at Hydeaways in Edmonton.

In spite of being VERY nervous, Daylan(& Warren)did GREAT!!

Although these are likely the worst picture I have even taken, I have to share!!

waiting to go on!

playing the harmonica

Auntie Betty sure keeps busy attending the young ones functions......thanks for coming......Daylan liked you being there(and of course, so did I)!

Daylan and Tyson

2009-11-30T14:09:00.003-07:00

Tyson really likes Daylan, it's so cute, he always as the biggest smile when he sees him!! It started with Daylan's hair.....Daylan would shake is head so his dreads would fly around and Tyson would get a big smile.......he is past that now, and just give a big happy smile whenever he sees Daylan, even if he doesn't shake his head....LOL!!!

BBB

2009-11-19T09:17:00.005-07:00

Big Bad Blogger(that's my text talk.......LOL)

Very busy in my Stampin' Up! world.......it's that time of year!!!

Everything good here.....time is flying(what's new)?

Yesterday was a month since my Dad passed......today it feels like forever ago! While looking for pictures(yesterday,for a scrapbook page)for a class, I came across some pictures of him from a year or so ago......left me with a raw feeling!

Baba is in the hospital, doing well.......I have thought for many years my Grandma K was the toughest person I knew(know), I think Baba might take over the crown......she amazes me!

Daniel is in the States golfing, Daylan has been studying his BUTT OFF....from our house that's about it!

Natasha lost her first tooth yesterday......BIG DAY!

It just HIT ME.....I didn't post on Ashley's Birthday(our Anniversary)......the BIG 4!! We had lunch a DQ and of course ICE CREAM! She has very happy with her 4 loonies(the other stuff was fun.....but didn't hold a candle to the MONEY)!!!

Not looking forward to tomorrow......time for me(& hopefully Daryl)to play thief again........I hate this!

text talk(from Daryl).....BBD(anyone have a guess?)

2009-11-19T09:16:00.001-07:00

Exciting news this morning......BIG BUCK DOWN!!! YA Evan!!!

THIS IS IT is in theaters!!

2009-11-08T18:54:00.006-07:00

I hope to go to the movie this week......anxious to see it!!

A little Michael Jackson update..........THRILLER now has 72,076,934 views.

On June 25th 2009(the day of Michael's death)there were 38,901,837 views(released in 1983).

38,901,837 since the start of YOUTUBE(?)......

33,175,097 in less than 5 months......

Part 2 from the Bonnyville paper!

2009-11-08T17:19:00.007-07:00

I love the write up.....gives a visual glimpse of the day(for those that were not there(even though I was....LOL!!))! (click on the picture to enlarge)

Recieved the following from a NEW visitor....THANKS Rose Ann!

2009-11-08T17:02:00.009-07:00

This is a clipping from the Bonnyville Nouvelle paper.....the fall of 1958,

it's a picture of my Mom & Dad's wedding!

This is the Thank You card Mom & Dad sent out(I pretty sure that is Mom's handwriting)......I believe this was sent to Rose Ann's parents....neighbors to my Dad's parents!!!

HOLY(cute)BATMAN!

2009-11-01T17:21:00.006-07:00

how do you like those Chicklets(click on the picture to enlarge)?

HOLY(not so happy)BATMAN!

Welcome new visitors!

2009-10-25T21:36:00.011-06:00

It is my understanding I may have a few new visitors to my blog. If you received an e-mail from Betty, I welcome you!

While you view the posts I hope you feel a little closer to Dad's service if you are one that would like to have been there.

If you have a memory you would like to share please e-mail me at just4u@telusplanet.net ....I would love to hear from you.

Thanks for stopping by, pop in anytime!

Donna(Mervin's daughter)

9:09 p.m.=one week

2009-10-25T21:09:00.009-06:00

It is now one week to the minute since Dad's passing..........at times it seems like only hours ago, and other times it seems like a month has past!

These picture were taken the morning after the service.

Graveside service for RAYMOND MERVIN

2009-10-25T21:08:00.019-06:00

Cherish the boy he was, forgive what needs forgiving, and honour those who stood by him. ~written by Danica Siewert/Donna Wizniuk(mainly Danica)

February 7th, 1936-October 18th, 2009

Laid to rest by his loving parents, Norman and Mabel, at Rife Community Cemetery.

this song played as Dad was carried to his final resting spot.....

GO REST HIS ON THAT MOUNTAIN

(click on the title to hear the song)

Pallbearers(all three of his Grandsons, his only niece, and his only two nephews)

Adam Rodrique(Grandson)

Evan Allan(Grandson)

Daylan Daniel George(Grandson)

Daryn John(Nephew)

Dolci Joy(Niece)

Deryk Joel(Nephew)

Honourary Pallbearers(all three of his Granddaughters)

Danica Dawn

Dana Dawn

Emily Lorraine

The Honourary pallbearers each carried a spray for the 3 family members that are next to Dad........my Grandmother Mabel, my Grandfather Norman, and my Grandfather's father Oliver George(flowers were from my Auntie Betty)

Family Procession

Children

Donna Mae(Daniel)

Daryl Mervin(Lorraine)

with their Mother Grace

Sisters

Norma May(John)

Betty Ann(Randy)

Great Grandchildren

Natasha Lyn

Ashley Madison

Tyson Aubrey-in photo with his Mom(honourary pallbearers, above)

Clergy-Pastor Gary

Will the Circle Be Unbroken-Performed by Daylan

Scripture Readings

Margaret(see below)

Dolci(see below)

Mervin was born in Rife, Alberta. He was the first child for Norman and Mabel. He was blessed with two sisters, Norma and Betty Ann, who loved him unconditionally.

Mervin attended Iron River School and was taught by Mr. R. B. MacGillivray from Grade 1 to 9. Mervin was determined to be in the same grade as Alfred Peters and Gerald Peterson and did reach this goal by skipping a Grade. At age 14 Mervin took his Grade 10 at Bonnyville High School where he played hockey. Immediately after Grade 10 Mervin, George MacGillivray, and Alfred Peters, left for B. C. looking for work. Mervin worked for some time in the Powell River Paper Mill in B. C. before returning to Alberta where he did different types of work. Areas of employment included: operating earth moving equipment – cats and buggies: driving truck both local and long haul: oil well servicing for Eskimo: contracting with Uncle Carman doing stucco and cement finishing work; Real Estate with Block Bros.; and started Merv’s Hot Shot Service which ended in 1995 when he was unable to carry on after surgery.

His children, Donna and Daryl, are grateful to have always been made part of the family. We are very thankful to our mother, Grace, our Grandpa and Grandma, and our Aunties and Uncles. Without their efforts we could have easily been strangers.

From our Dad I have learned several important lessons. He has made me strong rather than weak. He has made me brave rather than scared. He has made me cautious rather than reckless. Simple life lessons taught in unconventional ways.

The last eight years of his life were in the Rimbey Long Term Care Facility. He was known and loved as Merv. We are thankful for the care he received at the last place he called home. During my last visit to Rimbey, this past weekend, I heard many comforting words. "He had the most beautiful eyes and smiles.” "He was a good man." "Love him for who he was. Remember the good and let go of the bad.” "He sure could tell a good joke.” Last but not least, "He will be missed".

During the many stumbles in his life, I do believe, it was he who suffered the most. You are now at peace.

It's our hope each of you will remember him kindly. From time to time, when a memory of him finds you, may it bring a smile to your face.

A light meal will be served at Eastbourne Hall following the Graveside Service.

Arrangements provided by Memento Funeral Home in Bonnyville, AB.

************************

(these are the readings)

Read by Margaret, Dad's cousin

I'd like to make a comment about our circle of family and Mervin's place in it.

-As a child Mervin was full of good cheer, a love of life, exuberance.

-He was always in the front row for family pictures, his arm around me to give me a tickle, to make me laugh at the time the camera was snapped.

-Our giggles & his antics brought a smile to everyone to make a happy family picture.

-With the loss of Mervin the family circle is broken.

-But forever in our memories will exist a thread of his joyful fun-loving nature, and a thread of his non-judgemental nature. These memory threads will exist in each of us& they will intertwine to draw our family circle tighter & stronger-more joyfull less judgemental. And we love him for it-forever.

John 14:1-6

¹Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

²In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

³And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

⁴And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.

⁵Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?

⁶Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Read by Dolci, Dad's neice

Psalm 103

¹Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

²Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

³Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

⁴Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

⁵Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.

⁶The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.

⁷He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.

⁸The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.

⁹He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever.

¹⁰He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.

¹¹For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.

¹²As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.

¹³Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him.

¹⁴For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.

¹⁵As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.

¹⁶For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more.

¹⁷But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children;

¹⁸To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.

¹⁹The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.

²⁰Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.

²¹Bless ye the LORD, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.

²²Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the LORD, O my soul.

(all photos taken by Peggy with Lori's camera.....thanks so much to both of you.....I am glad to have these pictures)

EASTBOURNE HALL

(after the graveside service).

At the hall we had a guest book, a few photos on display, and a few memorabilia(unfortunately no pictures were taken at the hall). Thanks so much to Auntie Norma and Betty for bringing several photos of Dad in his younger days(before my time...LOL)! So many commented on how good looking he was....and he was, love those pictures! Pictures are so comforting during these times.........pictures of him as a child, family pictures, with his Sisters from July 2009, and a few with Daryl & I. Although we don't have a lot of pictures....the ones we have are GREAT(there was even one of him and Mom)!!!

When it's time to gather family & friends it's time for visiting and a little something to eat. In late Fall we were thinking a bowl of soup would be nice........we served soup, ceasar salad, cold cuts, fresh homemade buns, open face egg salad sandwiches, pickles, and a fruit tray. There was of course coffee, tea, and punch........and due to the generosity of many we had a full table just for sweets......thanks so much to everyone that brought something....everything was so yummy(trust me I know)!

Thank you Uncle John for saying Grace....much appreciated!

My Brother Daryl & Sister-in-laws Lori's children!

2009-10-24T10:53:00.006-06:00

They are always special to me, but over the past few days they seem extra special....thanks for being you!

and this one......

2009-10-19T18:09:00.002-06:00

not sure why.....

SEVEN SPANISH ANGELS

and this one......

2009-10-19T11:12:00.004-06:00

CHOICES.....George Jones

and this one.....

Go rest high on that Mountain!

I've had this song in the back of mind...

2009-10-19T11:07:00.002-06:00

for this time......for a long time!!! Now the time is here.......In the Arms of an Angel

He's Gone......

2009-10-19T07:30:00.005-06:00

Last night just after 9:00 p.m. my Dad peacefully took his last breath!

9 something p.m.

the 9th year

the date adds up to 9(18th)

What does this mean?.....maybe nothing, but it sure makes me think of Grandma and her love for the number 9(and her Son)!

TURNING 50 GIVES ME YESTERDAYS THAN TOMORROWS

2009-10-08T06:45:00.001-06:00

Bill Clinton

GREAT video.....thanks DANA!

2009-09-15T23:01:00.000-06:00

DO RE ME

Our annual FAMILY CAMPOUT(thank you Lori you saved my photoless dilemma)!

2009-08-29T11:28:00.026-06:00

I am soooo glad Lori got a picture of this memory! Brock(probably the toughest kid I've ever known(his Dad runs a close 2nd)!

You might of noticed he has a broken arm!

Yep he was giving the little ones rides on the little quad......note......the quad was not running, Brock was pushing it.....WHAT A GUY!

He did this many times over the weekend, we would look around and there was Brock pushing the quad!

1st year camper.......Mr. T!

and the winner of the dirtiest attendee.........Miss Ashley, HANDS DOWN!

Evan, our pancake artist........want a fun shaped pancake, he can DO IT!!!

fun & games.........Tayte watching and learning how it's done from her cousin Brock!

Lori's special guest.........JAKE, big hit with all the kids!

Daryl the corn chef.......Ashley, maybe in training!

Happy 47th Daryl............Thanks Auntie Norma, your cakes are always delicious!

Daryl helping Natasha, not sure what Natasha is doing..LOL!
*

Kites are a big hit at the camp out........the KIDS just love them!

This picture holds another great memory for me......little Tatye running with her kite in the open field........she is 3, I am sure she ran back and forth 20 times..........I couldn't believe how she just kept going and going............AND the kite behaved pretty well, and stayed in the air!

I had to STEAL this one from Danica's blog....makes me laugh just looking at it!

Firstly, when Tyson puts on a BIG SMILE his WHOLE face is smiling.....how cute! The other thing that makes me laugh is the story behind this picture! It was a group picture, Great Baba & Gido with 6 of the great grandchildren, not an easy task! Being Tyson is the youngest the plan was to get everyone ready, then quickly place Tyson and SNAP! WE were sure he was going to cry once he was on Gido's knee looking back at his Mom..........as you can see..............we were fooled big time.....BIG SMILES!

Want more........GO HERE!

Last but not least the whole crew.........I so miss Grandma being with us, and in this picture!

(thanks Lori, and Danica)

The U.S. lays to rest another member of what seems to be their most famous family!

2009-08-29T11:16:00.006-06:00

TED KENNEDY
What a story surrounds his life..........

An update from June 25th

2009-08-26T21:36:00.003-06:00

check out the views in 2 months!

Beat It!
23,924,168 views as of 5:18 p.m 25.06.09
43,277,657 views as of Aug. 26.08.09

Billie Jean
12,200,785 views as of 7:03 p.m. 25.06.09
32,921,600 views as of Aug. 26.08.09

Thriller
38,901,837 views as of 4:49 p.m. 26.06.09
43,268,492 views as of 10:31 a.m. 29.06.09
63,560,027 views as of 26.08.09

Bad
13,557,215 views as of 4:53 p.m. 26.06.09
27,269,622 views as of 26.08.09

Black or White
9,695,786 views as of 4:54 p.m. 26.06.09
22,316,266 views as of 26.08.09

The Way You Make Me Feel
10,076,934 views as of 4:58 p.m. 26.06.09
18,333,626 views as of 26.08.09

Whether you are an M.J. fan or not.........this is AMAZING!

Pictures for Bettyno sale on this one

2009-08-11T21:10:00.005-06:00

that is a rolled up rug in the tub!

Love these two big window....the whole motorhome is well lite because of all the windows!

the two mirrors are the doors of a huge closet(with rod for hanging clothes)

fridge on the left

these two are directly across from each other!

Thank You Johnny Reid

2009-08-03T20:23:00.006-06:00

It was announced today that Johnny Reid has donated $10,000 to a Trust Fund related to the happenings at BJV!
audio from CISN
http://www.cisnfm.com/Blogs/mikemcguire/Home.aspx

music video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhdWXDAfzf8

a few more from Johnny.........he was my reason for wanting to be a BJV!
A Woman Like You!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09m8PMk9hm0&feature=channel

CNN reports on BVJ

2009-08-02T17:01:00.003-06:00

short commercial runs before BJV video!
http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/americas/08/02/canada.stage.collapse/index.html#cnnSTCVideo

in print on CNN
http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/americas/08/02/canada.stage.collapse/index.html#cnnSTCText

Danica found this news release video(BJV)!

2009-08-02T14:47:00.000-06:00

http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=109955499194&h=q_YAQ&u=HsMnj&ref=nf

My accounts of the BVJ storm!

2009-08-02T11:51:00.022-06:00

From our family........Dana was working the event, Daylan(Kirsten), Adam, Evan, Danica(the kids) & myself were ticket holders for the event!

THE ITALIC SECTION of this post HAPPENED IN A MATTER OF 15 MINUTES!

the boys were at their camp stall
Danica & I(with the 3 little ones)were on our way to the event for the evening!
We met at the Tim Hortons near the BJV location(maybe 6-8 blocks away).....the sun was shining(around 5:45)!
We could see dark clouds what appeared to be FAR AWAY, and the radio announcers from BJV announced it looked like it was going to miss Camrose! (5:50)
I called Daylan to make sure(if the weather got worse when we were inside)if we needed help to LEAVE QUICK he could give us a hand(wanted to make sure we knew where each other were)!
We drove to the campground area where the boys were to say hi(and see all the fun that going on in the party area)! By the time we got there the wind had REALLY picked up, and all the campers were in their trailers/tents/vehicles!
We decided we would go to our house and sit out the wind for a bit, maybe a half hour....then head back to the event!
By the time we drove home(8-10 minutes)Daniel had heard from Dana(or maybe on the news)that part of the main stage had blown over!
Then the chaos started..........trying to find out where everyone else was! By this time the cell phones were not working, then the power went out!
When standing outside at our house the sound of sirens was constant for quite a while......not good!
We hadn't heard from Dana so we were wondering how she was handling the stress of all of this........being right there in the thick of things! Proud of you Dana....you did good!
The staff of the event were all gathered in the VIP tent......and held there, it was a long time, not sure maybe an hour+!
The boys(Kirsten)made it to our place!
When Dana(& Michelle)got home they told us about the nightmare they went through........see pictures below! Tables, chairs, food flying everywhere........people running, laying on the ground, sirens, emergency crews EVERYWHERE!
The hopes that the event carry on later that evening, or maybe even on Sunday vanished quickly!
We were trying to locate 2 of Adam & Evans friends so they could spend the night here......we knew they were okay, but it was a buggar to actually find them! As it turned out they didn't come over, but Daylan & Evan did go and see them......so from our end, all ended well!
Never in my life have I seen the weather change this quickly, and I'm old(you all know I'm 50 right...LOL)!
Thankful to be safe & sound and only suffering from a bit of chaos & confusion.....many others have much more to deal with!

It has been reported, the organizors of the Jamboree are in constant contact with the weather reporters during the event(over the whole weekend)! They recieved word of storm at 5:55, they began to evacuate at 5:57, and the stage went over at 6:00. This is mind boggling to me......add to that 1000's of people trying to get to safety(many of them intocitated).....this spells panic, confusion, chaos.........it seems to me this could have easily been much, much worse! !

I haven't heard the number of people that were in & around the event area, but I am honestly amazed many more people were not seriously hurt!

Shots of Dana's from the Big Valley storm!

2009-08-02T09:52:00.013-06:00

Dana(our daughter)was working at Big Valley! Her tent was on the other side of this row......she was in the tent right next to the main stage! VERY SCARY!

some the aftermath!

Are you one of the 12,000,000+ that have watched this?

2009-07-30T15:31:00.003-06:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-94JhLEiN0

fun, fun.........lifted from Heather's blog!

Chris & Amanda........I could just see the two of you doing this, can't wait!!!!

Happy Birthday Danica!

2009-07-29T22:16:00.004-06:00

Hope you enjoyed the day........I sure did!

Started out with lunch at the Cheesecake Cafe, your request due in part to your new love of cheesecake......it sure was yummy!!!

Costco

Then off to pick up your happy little girls at the airport from their 10 day holiday........great birthday present(to have them back)!

Then we headed back to Camrose to watch Snowbirds with the girls & Tyson!

A GREAT DAY!

You will get at a cake sometime over the weekend............be ready to blow out all those candles!

I can't help think back to your 2008 Birthday.........the day you found out you would be having A BOY..........this little guy!!!

Love Mom