photographs and memories

Recently Janice and I created a "Friends and Family" photo gallery on a wall here at our place. We'ed been meaning to do it for a while, and finally rounded up the pictures and mounted them.

It's nice to have a gallery, in a prominent place where we can be reminded of people in our lives, past and present. Mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, my step daughters, nieces, nephews, close friends and even a few reminders of ourselves from years ago.

Snapshots of special moments, and celebrations ... now every time we go upstairs, or come downstairs, these pictures bring us warmth and smiles. As time passes these captured moments become more precious.

We will add to the gallery as time goes on ... there is always room for more happy moments.

gone but not forgotten

This past week brought with it sad news. I received an email informing me that Joanna Burns had died suddenly.

I'd been fortunate enough to get to know Joanna through her partner Norm back in Winnipeg. It was unexpected and she will be missed.

Joanna was intelligent and graceful. On several occasions, we had enjoyed pot luck dinners together with friends, and she was always welcoming and a wonderful conversationalist.

Good partnerships can sometimes be easy to spot. Norm and Joanna complimented each other, and it was a pleasure to be with them. I know she was good for Norm, and I hope he will find a way to recover.

I've never been able to pinpoint exactly why death made me uncomfortable, but I suspect I'm not alone. It might be because it reminds us that we too will not live forever. It could be because I feel awkward, knowing that mere words may likely be of very little consolation.

I will phone Norm in the next day or two ... not really knowing what I'll say, but I want to touch base ... to at least let him know that he is in our thoughts.

I will remember Joanna fondly, and be happy that our paths crossed.

Rest in Peace Joanna.