46 years ago my parents were married. After meeting on a blind date, my dad spent 3 hours on weekends to drive south and visit his new love. Once married, my mom left her community of friends and family to move to a new city. This is where they built their lives. One apartment, two homes, 3 children, 6 grandchildren (soon be 7), a long and dedicated teaching career for my dad, years spent at home with children then a return to work at the University of Waterloo for my mom, decades of work at church, many volunteer hours at our local thrift store, then finally a time to slow down and find each other again. Retirement brought the opportunity to travel. Many cruises and travel to Europe allowed them to slow down, visit beautiful places and connect with cousins. All these new experiences were done together. Side by side.
Their dedication to one another has never wavered. Ten years of living with cancer has proven that they need each other and have always been there for one another. Living and coping with cancer for this many years brings out the best and worst in each of us. With the highs and lows of good and poor prognoses, my parents know this best. But their devotion continues.
This place where my parents stand is a special reminder of how each of their lives began. The tree that shades my parents was brought over from the Ukraine. Just as the tree travelled across the ocean, my parents also travelled as young children from the Ukraine and were planted here on Canadian soil. Together they have created so much beauty and joy. They protected and nurtured me. I hope to pass this on to my 3 children.
We are now approaching a new season. One that is darker. One that nobody wants to face. As we prepare for this change as a family, we will all draw strength from my parents' love. We will try our best to hold our arms around them and give them the strength they have given us so many times. Mom and Dad - you have shown me so many lessons of love and I am so happy that these pictures will now be with me to always be a reminder of how you have lived out your marriage. With true devotion and love.
5 comments:
Hey Catherine,
Thanks so much for sharing this. The story of your parents life together is absolutely beautiful, as are the picture. I think you and Andrew will carry on the tradition that your parents started - of protection and nurture - for your children!
best,
Judah
Thinking of you and your family during this time. What a beautiful tribute to your parents Catherine.
Beautiful pictures and words Cath. Oh how joy and sorrow are so intimately intertwined. Love you.
this is such a beautiful post catherine. i loved reading about your parents life together. so amazing to have such beautiful images of them as the journey continues. love to you and your family...
beautifully said. beautifully captured. Sending love and healing prayers your way.
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