Today, Ashley, Tyson and I headed into the city. The main reason was for Ashley as she had a doctor appointment to check her hearing. Over Christmas, I noticed a lot of "turn it up" and "what?" and "what did you say." My inlaws noticed it during her short visit over Christmas and the EA's (educational assitant) in her classroom have also noticed troubles when seated in the back. So we are trying an approach for a month at which time she will go back and be retested. If the problem still persists she will go for further testing.
Heading to Edmonton also allowed me to visit United Cycle during their January clearance. I went there last year and bought myself 2 pairs of shoes at 50-60% which lasted me through 2011. This year I got myself another pair of running shoes (50% off), my first pair of cycling shoes (30% off) and new bike pedals (10% off). The only thing I paid full price for was a pair of socks that say "I ♥ Tri" and I'll admit it was more impulse than actual need :-/
I then found my way to MEC and bought myself a pair of Vibram shoes. They are for barefoot running. I am hoping some barefoot running will make me more efficient and stronger. I will still use traditional running shoes but this should be a positive addition to my training :-)
And that was our day. We rushed (safely back) to get Natasha from school and then home to make supper. Everyone is playing, though not quietly, and I am looking forward to my night of run, Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice and maybe a glass of red wine.
Thursday, January 05, 2012
Tuesday, January 03, 2012
2012 Things to Do
Sometimes it is easy to get lost in the day to day of life. Going here, cleaning this, folding that and one day blends into the next.
So I decided to make a list of things to do in 2012.
1) Take the kids to a u-pick farm.
2) Ride my horse more.
3) Go hiking in the mountians.
4) Go to the Calgary zoo.
5) Go to the trapline.
6) Visit Alix monthly.
7) Go camping in the mountains.
So I decided to make a list of things to do in 2012.
1) Take the kids to a u-pick farm.
2) Ride my horse more.
3) Go hiking in the mountians.
4) Go to the Calgary zoo.
5) Go to the trapline.
6) Visit Alix monthly.
7) Go camping in the mountains.
Sunday, January 01, 2012
2011 Reflection
I saw these questions on Escaping the City's blog and thought I would reflect and answer the questions.
Did you try anything new in 2011?
Nope, not really. I did run my first half marathon.
What was the most memorable gathering you attended (or held) in 2011?
The most memorable gathering this year was, by far, Amanda & Chris's wedding. The whole time in Saskatchewan was fun. Stupid things happened. Laughs happened. Ripped shirts happened.
Did you discover a favourite song or musical artist in 2011?
Adele. I seriously love her :-)
Five things you do not want to forget from 2011?
My 1/2 marathon.
Beating Daylan at the Banff Olympic Triathlon.
Amanda & Chris's Wedding.
Holding Gido's Hand.
Our trip to see Adam in Fort McMurray.
What was your favourite gift given and/or received in 2011?
A repeating theme here but I think the greatest gift given to me was the honour of writing and delivery Gido's eulogy.
What was your funniest story from 2011?
OMG. It would probably be when my Mom sounded as though she was speaking in Native tongue and Candace and I spent a couple hours listening to a 1 min video and laughing ourselves into hysterics. I had several gut busting episodes with Candace this year.
Was there anything you were feeling nostalgic for in 2011?
There was a lot of nostalgia when Gido passed away and I am always nostalgic when I think of my grandma.
10 things you were thankful for in 2011?
In no particular order:
1. Family
2. My heating pad
3. Laughter
4. Games
5. My bike and treadmill
6. My health
7. Renewed friendships
8. Fruitful garden
9. A break from Chickens
10. My new car
Did you form any new, or strengthen any existing, relationships in 2011?
I think my relationship with my cousin Candace was strengthened. We spent a lot of time together this year. We can talk about anything, laugh over the silliest things and we both enjoy red wine.
What was something you planned to do in 2011 but didn't?
I had planned to do a 1/2 ironman race but it never happened. Really though, it is ok. A race like that needs adequate training and I just wasn't prepared enough.
What was your biggest indulgence in 2011?
I think my biggest indulgence, for myself, was my new camera lens.
What was the best meal you enjoyed in 2011?
The best meal of 2011 would have to be our lobster dinner on New Years Eve. All of us around the table, each wearing Happy New Year hats, tearing into our own lobster.
What was your favourite photo taken OF you and/or the photo you loved best that you took in 2011?
My favorite photo taken of me is probably the one with all my kids down by the tressel in Camrose. I am usually the one behind the camera and it was nice to have a picture with my darlings.
My favorite photo taken this year is harder to nail down as I take some many pictures. However, I love the picture I took of Amanda and Chris on the pier as part of their wedding day.
What was your most memorable moment with family in 2011?
I think I would have to say Gido's funeral. Some will say, FUNERAL, most memorable? But yes! Our family grieves but we also reflect and remember in a way that is not sober or depressing. We really hold each other up :-)
What was the bravest thing you did in 2011?
The bravest thing I did this year was writing and delivering Gido's euolgy. It was such an honour but also a huge responsibility.
Did you visit any place that holds special meaning to you in 2011?
Going back to the "Church on the Hill" to bury Gido. The "Church on the Hill" was a place we visited many times with Baba & Gido and is now the place they rest together.
What was your most surprising revelation in 2011?
Empathy can be as powerful as forgiveness.
Do you remember any of your goals and resolutions from 2011?
Ummm not really. One of them was probably lose weight, which I did.
What was your most memorable trip in 2011?
Mexico with Adam in December.
What was your most saddest moment in 2011?
I have two. The first one, was visiting my grandma after a lengthy absence. It was absolutely heartbreaking to see her with advancing Alzheimers. The second, was losing Gido. It was a very final goodbye for the Wizniuk family.
What phrase or saying did you pick up in 2011?
From the mouth of Tyson "No Bad Words"
What do you believe in?
This is a hard question to answer and I think it might be worth it's own blog post.
How did you celebrate your birthday in 2011?
I celebrated my birthday this year at Big Valley Jamboree.
What could you have done without in 2011?
Not really. Everything happens for a reason and is an opporunity for knowledge and growth.
What did you regret not getting to or not doing in 2011?
See above.
When did you feel your most authentic in 2011?
I felt my most authentic when I was racing. Whether it was my 1/2 marathon or triathlon, competing is in my blood.
What was the most important, or potent, lesson you learned in 2011?
You are stronger than you think.
What is your greatest wish for 2012?
My greatest wish for myself is to remain injury free during my training endevours. I wish health and happiness to everyone I love, whatever that may mean to them.
Did you try anything new in 2011?
Nope, not really. I did run my first half marathon.
What was the most memorable gathering you attended (or held) in 2011?
The most memorable gathering this year was, by far, Amanda & Chris's wedding. The whole time in Saskatchewan was fun. Stupid things happened. Laughs happened. Ripped shirts happened.
Did you discover a favourite song or musical artist in 2011?
Adele. I seriously love her :-)
Five things you do not want to forget from 2011?
My 1/2 marathon.
Beating Daylan at the Banff Olympic Triathlon.
Amanda & Chris's Wedding.
Holding Gido's Hand.
Our trip to see Adam in Fort McMurray.
What was your favourite gift given and/or received in 2011?
A repeating theme here but I think the greatest gift given to me was the honour of writing and delivery Gido's eulogy.
What was your funniest story from 2011?
OMG. It would probably be when my Mom sounded as though she was speaking in Native tongue and Candace and I spent a couple hours listening to a 1 min video and laughing ourselves into hysterics. I had several gut busting episodes with Candace this year.
Was there anything you were feeling nostalgic for in 2011?
There was a lot of nostalgia when Gido passed away and I am always nostalgic when I think of my grandma.
10 things you were thankful for in 2011?
In no particular order:
1. Family
2. My heating pad
3. Laughter
4. Games
5. My bike and treadmill
6. My health
7. Renewed friendships
8. Fruitful garden
9. A break from Chickens
10. My new car
Did you form any new, or strengthen any existing, relationships in 2011?
I think my relationship with my cousin Candace was strengthened. We spent a lot of time together this year. We can talk about anything, laugh over the silliest things and we both enjoy red wine.
What was something you planned to do in 2011 but didn't?
I had planned to do a 1/2 ironman race but it never happened. Really though, it is ok. A race like that needs adequate training and I just wasn't prepared enough.
What was your biggest indulgence in 2011?
I think my biggest indulgence, for myself, was my new camera lens.
What was the best meal you enjoyed in 2011?
The best meal of 2011 would have to be our lobster dinner on New Years Eve. All of us around the table, each wearing Happy New Year hats, tearing into our own lobster.
What was your favourite photo taken OF you and/or the photo you loved best that you took in 2011?
My favorite photo taken of me is probably the one with all my kids down by the tressel in Camrose. I am usually the one behind the camera and it was nice to have a picture with my darlings.
My favorite photo taken this year is harder to nail down as I take some many pictures. However, I love the picture I took of Amanda and Chris on the pier as part of their wedding day.
What was your most memorable moment with family in 2011?
I think I would have to say Gido's funeral. Some will say, FUNERAL, most memorable? But yes! Our family grieves but we also reflect and remember in a way that is not sober or depressing. We really hold each other up :-)
What was the bravest thing you did in 2011?
The bravest thing I did this year was writing and delivering Gido's euolgy. It was such an honour but also a huge responsibility.
Did you visit any place that holds special meaning to you in 2011?
Going back to the "Church on the Hill" to bury Gido. The "Church on the Hill" was a place we visited many times with Baba & Gido and is now the place they rest together.
What was your most surprising revelation in 2011?
Empathy can be as powerful as forgiveness.
Do you remember any of your goals and resolutions from 2011?
Ummm not really. One of them was probably lose weight, which I did.
What was your most memorable trip in 2011?
Mexico with Adam in December.
What was your most saddest moment in 2011?
I have two. The first one, was visiting my grandma after a lengthy absence. It was absolutely heartbreaking to see her with advancing Alzheimers. The second, was losing Gido. It was a very final goodbye for the Wizniuk family.
What phrase or saying did you pick up in 2011?
From the mouth of Tyson "No Bad Words"
What do you believe in?
This is a hard question to answer and I think it might be worth it's own blog post.
How did you celebrate your birthday in 2011?
I celebrated my birthday this year at Big Valley Jamboree.
What could you have done without in 2011?
Not really. Everything happens for a reason and is an opporunity for knowledge and growth.
What did you regret not getting to or not doing in 2011?
See above.
When did you feel your most authentic in 2011?
I felt my most authentic when I was racing. Whether it was my 1/2 marathon or triathlon, competing is in my blood.
What was the most important, or potent, lesson you learned in 2011?
You are stronger than you think.
What is your greatest wish for 2012?
My greatest wish for myself is to remain injury free during my training endevours. I wish health and happiness to everyone I love, whatever that may mean to them.
New Years Resolution vs Personal Plan
I'm back and not just because it is January 1, 2012 ;-)
Instead of New Year Resolutions I decided I am going to have a personal plan instead. Resolutions seem to have two outcomes; succeed or fail. A personal plan allows for changes, reflection and redirection if needed.
So you ask, what is my personal plan?
1) Continue on the athletic journey I am currently on and see it through all the seasons. The more and more I train, the more I am reminded of the athlete within. I am reminded of my dedication and determination. I am reminded of my drive and committment. I need to remember these feelings in the summer months when the garden, warm weather and beer are calling me. I need to find a balance in the summer that involves both fitness and fun.
2) Consistency with my kids. Consistency and routine are very different. I am great at keeping to routine. Following through with parenting plans, not so much. I have great ideas but none seem to make it further than a week. This does not help anyone. Kids end up confused and frustrated. I end up frustrated because things don't change. So, develop a plan, be the example and follow through.
3) Expand my mind. I want to read a couple of classic books, take a language class or maybe a distance learning course. There will be a time, sooner than later, when I will not be a stay at home mom. What will my life look like then? I am not entirely sure but it is not too early to start challenging my mind.
What will I carry from 2011-2012? I will continue to let go of things I cannot control and I will not stew over things I cannot change.
Instead of New Year Resolutions I decided I am going to have a personal plan instead. Resolutions seem to have two outcomes; succeed or fail. A personal plan allows for changes, reflection and redirection if needed.
So you ask, what is my personal plan?
1) Continue on the athletic journey I am currently on and see it through all the seasons. The more and more I train, the more I am reminded of the athlete within. I am reminded of my dedication and determination. I am reminded of my drive and committment. I need to remember these feelings in the summer months when the garden, warm weather and beer are calling me. I need to find a balance in the summer that involves both fitness and fun.
2) Consistency with my kids. Consistency and routine are very different. I am great at keeping to routine. Following through with parenting plans, not so much. I have great ideas but none seem to make it further than a week. This does not help anyone. Kids end up confused and frustrated. I end up frustrated because things don't change. So, develop a plan, be the example and follow through.
3) Expand my mind. I want to read a couple of classic books, take a language class or maybe a distance learning course. There will be a time, sooner than later, when I will not be a stay at home mom. What will my life look like then? I am not entirely sure but it is not too early to start challenging my mind.
What will I carry from 2011-2012? I will continue to let go of things I cannot control and I will not stew over things I cannot change.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Back to School
Over 8 years ago, I was writing reports, doing scheduling, balancing and supervising. The busy part of my year was February, RSP season. Now, my focus is preparing for back to school; coming up with rules, labeling school supplies, preparing lunches, sorting clothes, etc. In the workforce, I received a paycheck. Staying at home, I receive smiles, kisses (and the occasional headache) and I love you's as payment. One form of payment fills the bank, the other fills my heart. I am extremely thankful for my hard working husband! He works hard to provide for our family which also allows me to fulfill my important role as stay at home mom.
Here is our "Screen" Rules for School Days:
TV/Computer/Wii Rules for School Days
No TV before school UNTIL:
1) Breakfast is finished
2) You are dressed
3) Hair is brushed
4) Teeth are brushed
5) Bag is packed and you are ready to walk out the door
No TV after school UNTIL:
1) Coat/hoodies are hung up in the closet
2) Shoes are in the closet
3) Bags are hung up in the closet
4) Lunch kits and lunch containers are emptied
5) Homework is done
I did get a little bit of a groan when I read and placed the rules on the fridge. The girls don't get picked up until 8:29am. I explained to the girls that if they get up at 7:30am they should have enough time to get ready and watch one TV show. They smiled when they heard that.
Back to school is tomorrow which will bring, you guessed it, back to school photos. Natasha actually said "really?" and I told her she is not allowed to complain about BTS photos until at least Junior High. This tradition is thanks to my mom. I know she heard many complaints and whines and moans. I also know she took some pictures that had no smiles on the film. Now, in my 30s, with my own kids, I am grateful for the photo tradition. I know, too, when the kids look back, they will be too.
Here is our "Screen" Rules for School Days:
TV/Computer/Wii Rules for School Days
No TV before school UNTIL:
1) Breakfast is finished
2) You are dressed
3) Hair is brushed
4) Teeth are brushed
5) Bag is packed and you are ready to walk out the door
No TV after school UNTIL:
1) Coat/hoodies are hung up in the closet
2) Shoes are in the closet
3) Bags are hung up in the closet
4) Lunch kits and lunch containers are emptied
5) Homework is done
I did get a little bit of a groan when I read and placed the rules on the fridge. The girls don't get picked up until 8:29am. I explained to the girls that if they get up at 7:30am they should have enough time to get ready and watch one TV show. They smiled when they heard that.
Back to school is tomorrow which will bring, you guessed it, back to school photos. Natasha actually said "really?" and I told her she is not allowed to complain about BTS photos until at least Junior High. This tradition is thanks to my mom. I know she heard many complaints and whines and moans. I also know she took some pictures that had no smiles on the film. Now, in my 30s, with my own kids, I am grateful for the photo tradition. I know, too, when the kids look back, they will be too.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Friday, May 13, 2011
Hair Cuts
The girls got haircuts once the dance season ended. They decided on the cuts they wanted all on their own and they went short. I think they look beautiful but I am a little bias ;-)
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Gido's Eulogy
This is the eulogy I wrote and delivered for my Gido that passed away on April 30, 2011. This was probably one of the greatest honors in my life to date. It was also one of the hardest things I have written, as I wanted it to be perfect. Thankfully, everything went fine and I received many compliments. I hope I did you and your life proud Gido.
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!
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!
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