VICKERS' CALENDAR 2008
WHEREVER THE COMING DAYS MAY FIND YOU, MAY IT BE A TIME OF PEACE, REST AND JOY
IN THE MYSTERY OF HIS COMING
A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
May you give and receive love generously,
may this love echo in your heart like the joy
of church bells on a clear December day.
May each person that comes into your life be
greeted as another Christ. May the honor
given the babe of Bethlehem be that which
you extend to every guest who enters your presence.
May the hope of this sacred season settle in
your soul. May it be a foundation of courage
for you when times of distress occupy your inner land
May the wonder and awe that fills the eyes of
children be awakened within you. May it lead
you to renewed awareness and appreciation
of whatever you too easily take for granted.
May the bonds of love for one another be
strengthened as you gather with your family
and friends around the table of festivity and nourishment.
May you daily open the gift of your life and
be grateful for the hidden treasures it contains.
May the coming year be one of good health
for you. May you have energy and vitality.
May you care for your body, mind and spirit.
May you keep your eye on the star within
you and trust this luminescent presence to
guide and direct you each day.
May you go often to the Bethlehem of your
heart and visit the one who offers you peace.
May you bring this peace into our world.
(Joyce Rupp)
Bennie's Family
Everyone is well, Mom is still going to town (St.John) that's good thing., health is great, she misses her walk up the lane..We all had a wonderful summer. Judy is still teaching into Fundy High. Judy's new little purchase BMW roadster two seater..she's still working all the time,,no summer for her. Miss Katherine graduate from UPEI in the spring with honors program. Left for Quebec about 3wks later, from training for customs officer, 6wks graduated, in June and start working in July, Not much happening in Pennfield, and Blacks Harbour,. Enjoyed the lake this summer Fred bought party barrage. Margaret and Charlotte with for a sail. nice day, We had alot of rain, this summer but we with out in anyway rain,or shine. Mom even with out with us, she hates the water. we need to go up the St.John river.Kelly is still doing great. health is great. Can't ask for anything more. Katherine grad. with Bachelor of Science with Honors . Fred is out west working will be home Dec-31 :-( time will go fast.... God Bless and Margaret have a great Christmas and Happy Holidays oxox :-)
William's Family
William Vickers Family
Hello from the "furthest
west" Vickers. The rainy season has descended upon Victoria and you can't get
too far without an umbrella. The CBC shows me winter storms and cold
temperatures creeping into the east. People out here would pass out if they
walked into minus 25, they wouldn't know what hit them.
An official congratulations Sister Margaret on your Order of Canada! Imagine,
being in a ceremony where the Governor General of the country bestows you with
one of the nation's highest honours. That is really something.
As for the latest on-goings in our family;
Kevin's family is going great.
Laura married Mitch Martin this summer and the whole family was home for the
wedding on the Miramichi. It was held up at the Enclosure. Being that I
haven't been around for Vickers reunions in recent years, it was great to see
the Vickers family from around the province.
Andrew and Vanessa McCrae are proud parents of a new baby daughter, Reese
Isabella Vickers. I have become a great uncle. Andrew is enjoying his tenure
as a police officer for Miramichi City Police. I was speeding around town while
home this past summer, hoping he would pull me over!
Mary and Ed's family are all well. Amy and a friend pedal biked from northern
Vancouver Island to Mexico this fall to attend a wedding. An astonishing trip.
She and her friend are now in transit back to their hometown of Jasper,
Alberta. Erin is doing great and helping out with the Women's Crisis Shelter in
Miramichi.
William is heading down to Florida in March and continues his teaching
professional up in Yellowknife. Will has whipped himself into the best shape of
his life and it makes me motivated to work out a little harder at the gym. He
sent a photo of his truck's dash display this morning, showing an outside
temperature of minus 40.
Kingston is busy down in Indian Rocks, his work area seems to be covering more
of the Caribbean. Mom has been on an excursion with him while he makes the
rounds in that area and says the Caribbean is beautiful. Mom flew down to
Florida in November and is out for an hour's walk each morning, enjoying book
clubs, bridge and life on Harbor Drive.
As for me, nothing new to report here on the B.C. coast. Plan on joining Will
and the rest of the family down in Florida in March.
Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year To One And All! Cheers.
Mary's Family
“THE GILL CLAN”
Well 2008 has almost come to a close. We as a family have encountered a few challenges during this past year both “happy and sad.”
But before I start writing about these events it would be re-miss of me not to mention our pride, happiness and enjoyment in knowing that on December 12th of this year Sr. Margaret will be receiving the “ORDER of CANADA” medal. We hear or read about people chosen for this honour and I now realize what type of amazing people they are. I can now tell people my Godmother is an “Order of Canada” recipient. My claim to fame.(LOL)
This year Gerard and Maria purchased a new house and saw their family size increase by one. They now have 2 beautiful grand-daughters named Suzie (born July 31, 2007) and Lily (born December 1st 2008) to keep them young. Michael turns 21 in February and is doing well in his third year of university majoring in History, while also working part-time. During this past school year Gerard and Maria had an exchange student from Brazil live with them and also a teacher from Germany for another exchange. Gerard will be off to Germany in April for 2 weeks as part of the exchange. He is co-coaching a Jr. High basketball team and playing a lot of badminton. I’m just glad Maria is there to keep him focused. Her job still keeps her busy and I’m sure the grand-kids will also. His new address is: 23 - 302 Westwood Dr. Winnipeg MB. R3K 1G7
Colleen and Ed continue to keep themselves “on the go!” Their boys have all left the nest but they haven’t slowed down. Ed continues to “fly” and Colleen (although re-tired) continues to teach as a supply. It seems that good teachers are always in demand. They try to escape the “rat race” as much as they can by going up north to their cottage but Colleen also has the extra responsibility of looking after mom. Ryan is Working and living in B.C. while Derek is in Hamilton with his wife and kids. Paul is living in Toronto while attending the University of Toronto. He is also working part-time.
Life in Thunder Bay is pretty much the same for me. I am still working at Purolator Courier and as of August 18th I feel as if I’m also working for U.P.S. We are now doing their Canadian pick-ups and deliveries so it is definitely an “understatement” to say we are “BUSY!” I also work part-time as an usher at the Lakehead University hockey games so I get in free and get paid to watch hockey. (LOL) Christopher is living and working in Toronto. His job is an electrician apprenticeship so he is working towards getting his “ticket”. Andrew is here in Thunder Bay living on his own and working full-time. He has set his sights on going to college next year. Geoffrey headed off to St. Catherines this September to attend Brock University. He is an “Honours B.A.” program with a major in English. He says he wants to be a teacher. All 3 boys will be in southern Ontario for Christmas this year and will be going to visit “Grammie!” Mom better grab the rocking chair early because when they visit that is the preferred place to sit.
As I mentioned at the beginning we also had some “bad” news this year. Mom was diagnosed with colon cancer and there was also a small lump on her liver. This news made us all take a step back and reflect. Colleen being there with her is definitely a “blessing” and both Gerard and I are grateful that she is. I recently went to visit mom and spent almost 5 days with her. She is in good spirits and we took a few walks down “memory lane.” She recalled some of the shenanigans I was into growing up but I won’t go into that here. I’ll save those for my memoires.(LOL) She is having difficulty walking and that is upsetting her. As she said to me: “With all the problems I had with my leg over the years, I was always able to walk.” Her memory is good although she will disagree. Imagine that. Mom and I disagreeing about something. Some things never change.(LOL) While I was there we called her good friend Tilly Gordon to congratulate her on her election victory. (Sorry Keith) Mom doesn’t watch television or read a paper but Mary Ronan sent a copy of the “Miramichi Leader” after Tilly’s win and mom read everything she could find about it. It was really wonderful to see some of that “spark” was still there. Mom was very anxious to have Sr. Charlotte, Joan and Alberta visit.
In closing, on behalf of the Gill family I would like to wish all of our extended families a very “Happy and Joyous New Year!” God Bless!
Burns' Family
BURNS & PEGGY VICKERS
Burns and Peggy’s work on earth is was finished this year. It was with great sadness we said good-by to our Mother and Father. Burns left us in December and we gathered and celebrated and remembered his life. Peggy joined him shortly after in January and once again we gathered to remember and celebrate the life of our mother. Both Burns and Peggy touched the lives of many people during their time with us; this was clearly shown by the number of people who attended the Memorials.
Both eulogies will be attached.
Carol-Ann and Sandy had another year of good travels. There were several trips to Toronto and PEI. Carol-Ann also made it to Chicago to get to know David and they took in a few baseball games. Carol-Ann and Sandy spent a good chunk of time on the Texas Gulf Coast in a nice condo that Hurricane Ike took a good crack at. After all that travel both have come out of retirement; maybe to pay for another year of travel. Pam and Joe are still in their nest in Toronto. Pam is working, but also playing when she can. Todd and Tracy are building a home and life together in PEI. David ventured to the NB from Vancouver to meet the clan this past August. Both he and the family welcomed each other in to their lives and it was love at first sight on all accounts.
Emma-Jane and Frankie are still happy and content on the Miramichi. Both stay busy with care giving, pet sitting, and keeping track of their grandchildren. Laura May and DJ’s son Devon graduated high school and is pursuing a career in welding. Emma is still in high school and loves sports. Claire is excelling at NB Power while raising her fast growing, active boys, Patrick and Sean. Everyone was blessed with a visit from Jim, Cathy and the boys this summer. Christopher and Kevin certainly enjoyed the water front.
Betty: After 19 years as Manager of the Beaubear Credit Union, Betty finally took the big plunge into retirement this past spring. She is enjoying the extra time she has to spend with her family, especially her two granddaughters Georgia (now 9) and Elizabeth (now 2). Her and Jimmy still enjoy their cottage in Cassillis in the summers but are looking forward to doing some traveling in the future.
Tila: Tila continues to teach high school and is also very involved in her volunteer work serving as treasurer this year for The Friends of Beaubears Island committee. Her, Cory and Elizabeth continue to enjoy their home in Cassillis where Elizabeth is close to all her grandparents.
Allison: This past spring, Allison completed her Masters degree in the field of Applied Health Services Research and is now working as a researcher coordinator for the New Brunswick Department of Social Development. She, Matthew and Georgia moved to Douglasfield in the spring and Georgia keeps them busy with her many choir and drama activities.
Alice is still working with Service Canada. BJ continues to work in the local church as a Youth Pastor but also works in the field of electronics at a locally owned business in Regina. Josh is also working in Regina and putting his carpentry skills to work with his father.
Maurina and Randy are still in Texas. Their community was hit hard by Hurricane Ike this year, but they were lucky to suffered minor damages. Randy is still with Bechtel and does get to travel from time to time. Jill will be graduating high School this year. They took a trip to Montreal this summer scouting out schools for Jillian; they visited McGill and Concordia Universities but at the end of their adventure Jill is opting to stay in Texas for her first year on university. Their two main trips this year was to Canada and to the California wine country with Randy’s family.
Joan and Tony continue to work hard; Joan is still at McGill University and is really enjoying her new position. Tony still works for Boeing where he continues to travel a lot of the time. David and Daniel have moved out to their own apartment and are busy pursuing their own lives. They are close enough to come home frequently…mostly at meal times. Let’s see how Joan and Tony handle the empty nest….something tells me it won’t be a problem!
A Tribute to My Father: Burn Vickers
What do you say about a man who has impacted your life so profoundly? At times like these words seem so inadequate; our hearts are filled with so many rich memories, memories which evoke many different emotions, some make us laugh others make us cry. The most prominent feeling however, is one of loss and finality because this week we lost our father, our mom lost her husband of 63 years, our children have lost their grandfather (their very own Batman). As we take time today reflect about a life well lived; we wanted to leave you with a few thoughts and memories.
Our father always had a spark; that indefinable quality that draws people; some might call it charisma or a twinkle in his eye. When you ventured out with Dad, be it to the grocery store, on vacation or to a meeting, you always knew it would be fun…Dad was the king of fun. Now on some of these adventures with Dad your life might have been in jeopardy as it may have involved driving a propane truck (before you even have your license) or a fishing trip way up in the woods with no spare tire in your car…it could also have involved a boat….we all have some special memories of a boat trip….for a man who was terrified of the water, he certainly loved the boat. You always wanted to go on these adventures just the same because Dad was just one of those people you wanted to be with. These last few nights as we have gathered as family we all have different memories but we realize that although he and my mom have created quite a brood, 6 daughters, 13 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren, each one of us have felt special and loved by him; each one has had a special connection or a special memory.
Dad was an advocate for the underdog….I’m not sure if everyone knew this about Dad but if there was an underdog in the crowd Dad would be on there side. For example when Dad would be out on the ski-doo he would be looking for the kids in the neighborhood who would never have had the opportunity to have a ski-doo ride and he would take them out for a ride. Now they may have been risking there lives getting on Dad’s ski-doo because surely the sled would be secured with a scarf or an old piece of rope which would surely break mid-trip and we’d end up in a snow bank somewhere. But seriously, more than once we have seen Dad step in when someone was being bullied…sometimes this would scare us but he was never afraid to step up for the underdog. Now looking back I see a valuable life lesson, we as his offspring, have learned by what we seen modeled by our father
I’m not sure but I think, in many respects, he felt like an underdog in life himself. Although he only had a grade 5 education, he became a successful business man and community leader, it seems that wherever he worked on what ever he choose to get involved in, he always ended up in position of leadership.
Dad loved sports…as most of you know he was heavily involved in a variety of sports organizations throughout his life. There was hardly a night that went by where he wasn’t either watching sports or involved in some type of sports (on the organizing side). I often thought…poor guy…so crazy about sports and you end up with 6 daughters. But the fact that we were girls never inhibited him from getting us involved. I remember spending many night at the baseball field…watching the Chatham Iron men Play. You know how churchgoers like to say “my children cut there teeth on the pew”, well many of us cut our teeth on the bleachers at the baseball field. Dad was determined to stay involved in sports as long as he could, even after the cruel disease of Parkinson’s took hold of his body and he began to experience tremors, he continued to go out to the Timberwolves games, to hand out programs with smile. There was never a job too small or insignificant for him and he worked tirelessly at whatever job he undertook.
Earlier I shared that each one of us has a special memory of dad and I guess because, I am standing up here before you today I get to share one of mine; I remember in grade 2 being 7 years old; my classroom at school was in the basement and the doorknob on the classroom door was broken. We would often get locked in the classroom as the doorknob would simply fall off. Being claustrophobic I started not to want to go to school…I would whine and cry and sometimes even refuse to go. I remember mom was getting frustrated about the situation. Then one morning dad woke me up early and said “lets get ready I’m taking you to school”. He came to school with me (toolbox and doorknob kit) in hand and he replaced the knob with a new one that worked. To most people this would not seem like a huge feat, but to a little girl who was fearful to go school it made a huge difference. I really think that many parents would not have given the whinings of a 7 year old girl the time of day but not my Dad….
This past week has been very hard on our family however when I think about complaining about it I think about Dad and the dignity with which he bore his ailments without complaint. He had numerous health issues but could always manage a smile or a warm hug. Over the last few years when I’d come home to visit, dad would be all shined up and wearing one of the shirts I bought him…he never seems to get confused about who bought him what and with 6 daughters buying him stuff that quite an accomplishment. But he didn’t complain to us about his problems instead he would want to know about us and our families
I know Dad is so thrilled that you are all here today to remember him! He loved his family, his brother and sisters were very dear to him. I can’t count the number of people who came through the receiving line these last two days who said your father was like a dad to me or your father was like a brother …he valued people so I know he is looking down just thrilled to see you all. So on behalf of Dad and our family, I want to thank you all for coming today to celebrate this wonderful life.
Read by: Joan Soares
A Tribute to my Mother: Margaret Vickers (Connelly)
Seems like yesterday I was standing here paying tribute to my father (I guess it wasn’t yesterday…but 7 weeks ago) Seriously we didn’t think Mom’s time would come quite so quickly. I know, however that mom is exactly where she wants to be today; I remember at the funeral parlor as she spent a few last minutes alone with dad before the closing of the casket, she look in my eye and said “I just really wish I was going with him” Well today she has her wish as she is indeed side by side once again with her husband..
How do we begin to pay tribute to someone that has impacted our lives on such a personal level. Mom was many things and she is kind of a difficult person to describe but one thing that those of us who really knew her would agree was that she had a really amazing sense of humor. As we describe Dad as fun we would describe mom as Funny. There was always a joke or a one liner (zinger) on the tip of her tongue. Her humor was edgy and sometime way off the wall…. she was definitely way ahead of her time.
Another thing we would say abut mom is that she was also an edgy dresser…some might say flamboyant…right up until the end of her life she would match her earrings, her sock, here shoes and her necklace. Often she would also have her cat, Morris all matched up as well. She loved sewing and was not shy to try new “do it yourself looks” It was hard growing up with such a fashion forward mother. Many of the things she deemed pretty or fashionable didn’t go over too well in elementary school or in junior high; we all had fur collars sewn on to our coats or a piece of lace attached to the hem of our skirt…and who could forget the jumpsuits made out of phentex yarn. She would make them and we would wear them….it didn’t make us the most popular kids at school but I think it certainly did something to build our character.
Mom was gifted at many things, but driving was not one of them! Early in their marriage, Dad used to work at Burma Propane which was located on the Miramichi side of the Morrisy Bridge. Dad said he always could tell when mom was coming across the bridge from the long line of sparks that followed behind the car as she scraped the car along side of the bridge.
Another thing many of people didn’t know about mom was that she loved poetry, she had scrapbooks full of verses and readings that she’d collected over the year. Up until she had her heart attack a few years back, she was an avid reader. It was through her reading that she would find things she liked and she would clip and paste them in to a scrapbook. Before her death she had written us children a letter which was only to be open after her passing …. in that letter she had left us the following poem
When I leave you don’t weep for me.
Pass the wine around and remember
how my laughing pleased you.
Look at one another, smiling,
and don’t forget about touching.
Sing the songs that I love best and
dance one time all together.
As for me, I’ll be off,
running somewhere on the beach,
and I’ll fly to the top of the tree
I always meant to climb.
When you’re ready I’ll be there
waiting. Take your time.
I’m going to tell you a story about mom, this story will certainly give to a glimpse into her sense of humor. Many years back a batch of muffins was made….they were burnt and were probably the worse tasting muffins known to man! When guests arrived, she looked at our sister, Alice and said…thanks for bringing burned muffins. Alice contended over many years now that she did not make those muffins. But Mom vehemently denied making them too. Arguments often ensued regarding the muffin…it has been a point of contention for years. The family (or at least I) was convinced that Alice made the muffins. This whole muffin issue has labeled Alice as a terrible cook all these year (and I think she sort of lived up to that label as well!). In mom’s final letter that we read after she passed way she conveyed many wonderful sentiment however at the bottom of the letter there was a small PS: that read “I made the muffins”
On a final note, I know mom would have been thrilled to see you all here today. We as a family want to extend our gratitude to you all for taking this time today to honor the memory of our beloved mother. It has been a tough few months for our family and your presence and the outpouring of loved from this community has been overwhelming Your support has helped us tremendously in dealing with our loss. So on behalf of our family thank you!
Read by: Joan Soares (Vickers)
Allan's Family
Rick and Barb say hi from the snowy prairie today at - 48C. We finally purchased a snow blower with both boys away from home. We spent the summer at White Bear Lake where we bought a cabin. We painted and replaced all the floors with laminate flooring. Work was the fun part of owning a cabin this year.
Garret couldn't be healthier and happier as he continues his nursing studies in Saskatoon. Matthew is spending his last days teaching in Korea. On New Years day he will be travelling to Vietnam, and holidaying in Asia before returning to Canada in April
MARIE,
Marie has been busy visiting the various funtions with her family. In April ,she attended Karla's beautiful wedding . In June, she went to Jamie Lynn Donaldson's grade 12 graduation from Ridley College in St. Catherine's, Ontario. Then on to Ottawa for a visit with Keith's family. She continues to sing in St. Mary's Church Choir and spend time with her friends.
PAULINE
Pauline and Carolyn are still busy in their home in Dartmouth. Pauline, Charlotte and Eileen also attended Jamie Lynn's graduation in Ontario. Richard is engaged to be married in August to Cindy Hay.. a Miramichi girl. He now is working on his own business richgraphics.ca
KEITH
Chelsea and Allan are doing well. Chelsea is working at HRSDC part‑time and finishing her last year of Market and Advertising and hopes to get a job in her field in the spring. Allan is in grade 11 and still not sure what he wants to pursue after high school. Debbie is enjoying her work at Agriculture and Agri‑ Food Canada and has been lucky to be sent to a couple of trade shows around the world. Keith has enjoyed his time off taking care of the family, but is now in full speed ahead job search and hopes to land something in the new year. His political aspirations are still front and centre and he will continue to campaign for this job until the next election is called. Keith and Debbie had a wonderful time hosting several family members, Diane, Donna, Alberta, Joan and Sister Margaret and a friend of Alice’s, Sandra in December as part of all of the celebrations around Sister Margaret’s Order of Canada. It was an exciting time for everyone as we all rejoiced in this great honour for Sister Margaret .
CHARLOTTE
Cahrlotte ,John and Jeffery have had a busy year. I always thought when one got older things would slow down. Do not know where I ever got that idea. John is still with Northumberland Dairy and Charlotte contiues to work in the ever changing Health Care structure in New Brunswick . Jeffrey's business OAKVIEW LANDSCAPING had a very busy spring, summer and fall. All are well.
EILEEN
Eileen and Kevin are mostly enjoying skiing and hiking. Karla and Greg are happily married in Dartmouth N. S. and are enjoying their new puppy. Jake and Laura are still in Halifax in the Navy ( they will be posted soon) and are enjoying their new kitten.
CARMEL
John Donaldson 14yrs is in grade 9 and loving being the king pin at school. He
is participating in a UK trip with the school and has switched sides in hockey
to a referre instead of a player.
Jaime Lynn Donaldson 18yrs is seething at the bit to become of legal age. She is
presently taking sciences at UPEI and is a great defenseman for the UPEI hockey
team.
Ashley Donaldson is at the ripe old age of 20yrs. Last year she went to New York
City and this year to LA so we will wait and see where the wind takes her in
2009. Ash continues to work at the bank and attends UPEI majoring in English.
Carmel Donaldson continues to work and work and work.Actually I have been with
the Provincal Diabetes Program now for 2 years.
Bruce Donaldson is still managing the TD Bank and is coaching the UPEI girls
team. Despite the volatile markets he is learning how to smile again.
The Vickers family has
been very busy in Bathurst. A new Welsh Corgi puppy named Lucy and another
kitten have been added to the house. Albert, Martha and Family would like to
take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New
Year.
Martha's practice continues as a Nurse Practitioner in a newly built building.
The Nepisiguit Medical Clinic has the latest patient computer system and many
new Doctors from around the world.
This past year, Martha was the president elect for the New Brunswick Nursing
Association. She will be very busy in 2009 traveling to meetings throughout New
Brunswick and Canada representing the nurses of New Brunswick. Martha's choirs
and other activities with Courtenay and Emma also keep Martha as well as Albert
busy.
Courtenay is completing her grade twelve year at Bathurst High School and is
considering McGill or Acadia for a degree in Nutritional Science or a B.Sc. in
Food Science. Her school year in 2008 will be apart of her as she remembers
some of her class mates that were tragically killed. Courtenay continues with
her piano, music and many volunteer work.
Emma is in grade eight and doing very well. Active with the school band and
many school activities keeps here busy. Emma is also very busy with Highland
Dance with her, Martha and sometime Albert traveling to competitions. Emma has
started tutoring Highland dance also.
Albert has been very busy this past year with the mineral exploration business.
He has been part of some significant gold finds and hopes this keeps him busy
despite the downturn in the stock markets.
Margaret
This year 2008 marks ten years for me here in Vancouver. I am extremely grateful
to be in a city with such culture diversities, each day one experiences
something new in relation to food, religion, dance and dress. We are a total of
eleven sisters, I live at Holy Name Convent with three other sisters and are in
close proximity to church, ministry, parks and the city of Vancouver.
My Ministry is with Health Care, Sisters Association and our Associates. Being
involved with St. Vincent's Brock Fahrni in the Mission Department is very
rewarding. When I commenced this work, for awhile I believed I was a failure.
The staff were not interesting in talking about Mission and Values and thought
it to be too Catholic. Today they delight in speaking about the Mission and
relate how they "Live the Mission".
We opened (Providence Health Care) an Assisted Living Complex, and named it
after our Foundress Honoria Conway. The signs outside the building display her
name. We are all proud to have Honoria's name displayed prominently in this
province. It took consider energy to come to the consensus that the building be
called after her.
There were many highlights throughout 2008 one was having the opportunity to
visit Mary in Burlington on three occasions. It is always a time for reminiscing
and catching up on the happenings in the family. Spending time at Gerald's
cottage with family and friends is always a treat. Being recipient of the Order
of Canada "the country's highest honour, created in 1967 to recognize a lifetime
of outstanding achievement, dedication to Community and service to the nation"
was indeed humbling. I fully realize the honour was not just for me but to all
of you and co-workers who made things happen though the years. Hats off to Kevin
and Keith for their genuine hospitality extended to me while in Ottawa. Having
Alberta, Joan, Charlotte, Sister Sandra with me to celebrate was wonderful then
to have Donna and Dianne arrive on the scene heightened the excitement. Yes I
thank all of you and MY GOD for making such an honour possible.
Christmas blessings of peace and joy to all.
Albert (Jr)
It was a much quieter
summer for all of us-The hi-lights for Bill Dustin and I this year are that
Dustin recevied a half day long term teaching assignment, teaching grade & 7&8
. He finds it most challenging. Its another step towards a permanent position.
Bill and I are still working. Hoping to retire soon. If all goes according to
plan Bill and I and another couple (daugher and husband of an old friend of
Dad's, The DePapes) will be travelling via a trailer this year to visit in New
Brunswick around the first 2 weeks of August. Looking forward to that.
And the Brightest hi-light of the year was visiting and celebrating with Sister
Margaret in Ottawa as she received The Order of Canada. Also seeing Aunt Joan,
Alberta, Sister Charlotte and Kevin's hospitality was certainly heart warming.
Keith and Debbie and family were such grand hostess'. Their kindness and
generosity was certainly appreciated. Hope to see them Windsor-way in the near
future.
Take care and Happy Holidays everyone
Dianne, Bill and Dustin
Deborah and her gang,
Tracey and husband Shane along with youngest daughter
Kellie ventured to the East Coast this past summer. It was wonderful seeing
everyone, and Uncle Gerald showed us tremendous hospitality. Shane is still
talking about Aunt Helen's homemade cookies, Mmmmmmm. Jim and Emily took us
on the 'Jet Boat', that was another wild experience, but nothing compared to
Jim's highway driving, we never thought anyone travelled faster than the
speed of sound! It was wonderful seeing everyone's smiling face at the Uncle
Gerald's Cottage get together.
Deborah continues to work at Hotel Dieu Hospital, in 'Special Chemistry', a
new venture for a new stage in life. Bill, Deborah's husband is enjoying
retirement, and has taken up a love for home-cooking. Tracey has been
blessed to be teaching grade 2 for the fourth year in a row, and is really
enjoying married life. Kellie contines her educational pursuits in the field
of education and is looking forward to a full time teaching career. We look
forward to seeing any visitors our way soon!
This year has come and gone so quickly I swear it is a blur. With that said, I can’t believe the number of people who are kind enough to tell me it is because of my age and that I am not getting any younger. What good friends they are to tell me that - I say with sarcasm!!!!
I started off this year in a new job, working in Probation with Youth. David is enjoying retirement from Corrections and now is filling in time by working part-time at the new Wal-Mart in town. He was going stir-crazy so it was either that or I would have to kill him so we chose the lesser of two evils. You can bet that I hear Uncle William roaring in my ear each time Dave goes in for a shift. There is no doubt that our lives have gone to the dogs yet again. Ben our bullmastiff was certified by St.John Ambulance as a therapy dog and does weekly visits at Hospice Home visiting patients. Brady our Great Dane just completed the intermediate classes for agility, I failed, and he passed!
This summer David and I put many miles on our motorcycle driving everywhere including the hills of West Virginia. We are booked for late September next year to go riding through Texas including the Rio Grand.
Mum is doing okay and is holding her own. She has two frozen shoulders so she is limited even more with her movement. I swear my Mum has turned into my Nan right before our very eyes. She can sure be feisty when she wants too!!
This year could not have ended any better. First, Mary (Meahan) Park and her husband Glen came up in early December for a visit to Windsor for the Annual Cookie Party Event of the year. I introduced Mary to margaritas and now she is hooked. Everyone is welcome for next year, always the first Friday of December – see you there!!!!
The most exciting time this year was sharing in Sister Margaret’s honour of receiving the Order of Canada. Thanks to Keith, Debbie and Kevin keeping a well-guarded secret my sister Dianne and I were able to surprise Sister Margaret on her special occasion. That to me was priceless. What an honour for Sister and for us as her family. It was so nice to surprise everyone who was there (Sister Margaret, Sister Charlotte, Aunt Alberta, Aunt Joan, Keith, Debbie and Kevin). Lots of celebration, which works for me! I tried to invite the Chief Chef at the Parliament to the Cookie event next year but unfortunately he declined! Did you know that Sister Margaret now signs her name followed by the initials C.M. that stands for Canada Member. For those of you who may not know, that means we as her nieces and nephews can now sign our name followed by N.C.M. that stands for Niece or Nephew of Canada Member.
Happy New Year Everyone!
It has been an eventful
year for our family.
This year, Jennifer and her husband Derek bought their first house out in
the country and it is lovely. Even though mom and dad were sad that
Jennifer moved out, they are getting used to it and are very happy for her
and are enjoying the quiet at their own home! Jennifer recently got a
permanent job in the health records department at the Windsor Regional
Cancer Clinic, and we are all very excited about that. Derek has been
keeping busy landscaping and lately snow-plowing with all of the snow we've
been getting here.
Jaime got married to Paul Poirier in Mexico this year where the family
travelled down to celebrate with them and have a family vacation. Jaime is
currently pursuing a nursing degree at Dalhousie University in Halifax, and
following in her mother's and grandmother's footsteps. Paul is from
Cheticamp, Nova Scotia and keeps busy working as a carpenter, building and
siding houses.
Sharon is contemplating retiring from her career as a nurse, as she has been
a wonderful nurse for the past 34 years. She has been a dedicated Nurse
Manager at the Windsor Regional Cancer Clinic for over 20 years. Sadly,
Sharon's mother passed away peacefully this past April with her family by
her side, and thankfully, Sharon's brother Peter was able to make it back
from Afghanistan, where he was on a tour for the Canadian Forces.
Darryl is still working at Chryslers, planning on retiring in the next
couple of years, and is hoping to make it through the current "Big Three"
economic car manufacturing plant situation. On his time off, Darryl spends
alot of time hunting moose, deer, rabbits, and waterfowl and puttering
around in the garage.
That's it Sister. Hope you are well. Congratulations on your award, we are
very proud of you.
Merry Christmas,
Love,
Sharon, Darryl, Jaime, Jennifer, Paul, and Derek
Ella"s Family
I really enjoyed seeing Joan and Alberta, it's probably been 30 years since we last seen each other. Donna told me she had a wonderful time in Ottawa and everything was most enjoyable !!. Update on my family.
With Katey off to the University of Guelph in Sept.,Glen and I would have been
empty nesters, instead we have a 7 year old foster daughter and a puppy named
Lucy, not your typical empty nest! Brad is working in construction and writing
papers to join the hydro company, Justin is still doing real eastate. He and
Brandy are expecting their first child ( a girl, Maddison ) in January. She will
be our first grandchild. Craig is entering his second year of his PhD program (
molecular biology and genetics) in January.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, Sister, love Mary
Ed had a difficulty year
starting with his New England Patriots losing the Super Bowl after going
unbeaten. That was followed in the spring by his Montreal Canadiens blowing a
huge chance to win their 25th Stanley Cup. Oh yeah, and then his Red Sox
choked. Oh well Ed, maybe next year....but probably not. lol. Ed remains in
the brick business and living in Hamilton. It has been over five years since he
has come back to visit New Brunswick so we encourage everyone to hassle him
about that one. Maybe a surprise visit to Vicky's summer wedding? Let's hope
so!! Get off that couch and onto a plane, you slacker!
Joe continues to work for the Education Department in Halifax. He switched from
Disability Services to Statistics and absolutely hates it. He hopes to transfer
back as soon as there is an opening. Numbers don't do it for Joe....just check
his bank account! Joe went on a couple good trips this year. In February he
went to San Diego which was great and had a memorable day-trip to Tijuana,
Mexico. He recommends nobody go to Tijuana. Talk about a scary little place!
The food was good though...but not worth your life! Better still was a summer
trip to St. John's Newfoundland. George Street rocks and the people were great.
Newfoundlanders are a lot like Miramichiers - they're all Irish, they like a
drink of rum and look at the Buffet Table!!! Joe had to fight for his 7th
plate! Peace!
Hope that's want you wanted sister.
Have a Merry Christmas.
With love.
Joe
Mike is still working at
Aliant. Kathy is still teaching grade three at Morna Heights School. Olivia is
now in middle school taking French Immersion. She's finding it a challenge but
is doing very well. She takes Clarinet lessons and enjoys playing in the
district band. Samantha is now in grade four. She is also doing very well and
loves school, cooking and her Webkinz. We're all looking forward to a summer
trip to Ontario.
Joan and Kevin have
settled nicely into their new home and are now busy helping Vicky
and her fiance Porter build their new house. Vicky is busy planning a July
wedding. She
just got a contract teaching in District 8 , and her fiance also is a teacher
for District 8.
Jeffrey and Ashley have celebrated their 1st wedding anniversay. Ashley is
teaching
at St.Martins school, and Jeffrey is still working for the family business.
Jared will graduate from high school in June and plans on attending UNBSJ.
Adam is presently
studying helicopter trauma to improve his skills as a paramedic. He is presently
working in Vegreville, Alberta but did get home for a brief visit over
Christmas.
Robert is still in the Canadian Armed Forces. He lost 6 members of his unit
(Hotel Company) last year and within the last two weeks lost one of the young
fellows he trained with in Meaford, Ontario, quickly followed by a buddy of his
from Newfoundland (Jonesy). It has not been an easy year for him. Robert has
been told by his superiors that he will not be deployed for the next 6 months
and will have the opportunity to rethink his career during that time, if he so
chooses.
Little Dominica needs him here at home. She started Kindergarten this year and
depends on her Daddy to be close by. We are happy to have him near as well and
look forward to a better 2009.
Noreen works at EXIT
Realty and the company is ready to open a 2nd
office. It will be a busy year. We can only hope the market continues to
thrive here in Saint John.
Bill is still with the Telegraph Journal and keeps us informed of Sister
Margaret's great achievements.
Michael continues to work with the City.
No weddings, pregnancies or graduations to report here. I leave this
up to my sisters for now.
Philip and Tracy continue to live in Rothesay enjoying their home and neighbours. Mom is a frequent visitor and we always delight in her visists as well as the visits to her house. Philip is employed at Rogers and Tracy teaches. Philip coaches Basket Ball, Riley, Keegan and Kelly love school and enjoy speed skating, swimming and basket ball. Merry Christmas to one and all.
Merry Christmas Sister
Margaret.
Whar's new with the Rogersons? We are still cattle farming and weathering the
many storms that this business brings. I am also still working for the Alberta
Distance Learning Centre teaching grade 9 Language Arts. It is a great job as
you get to teach without having to deal with any discipline. Blake will graduate
in June and has been accepted into the University of Alberta and the University
of Calgary for the engineering program. He is leaning towards Calgary. Rebecca
will be right behind him and is thinking about going to Mount Allison. She was
asked to enter the skills competition in Calgary for aestheics and won a bronz
medal. Her teacher tells me she has a lot of natural talent in this area. Other
than that we are all well and try ing to stay warm. It is -35 here today.
I hope all is well with you.
Love
Patty
Charlotte
Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for the coming year to each of you and May all your dreams come true.
I t is in a joyful mood that we say good-bye to the year 2008. Two big events occurred during the last month of the year that brought much joy and happiness to the family. A new member was added to the Vickers family. Vanessa and Andrew Vickers became the proud parents of a beautiful girl REESE Congratulations.
On December 12 Sister Margaret received the order of CANADA. It was a great experience to be at RIDEAU HALL for the INVESTITURE and to hear the stories of 48 men and women who have made a difference in people’s lives, their stories were very moving. Along with the activity at Rideau Hall Kevin gave Margaret a beautiful reception dinner at the Parliament Building, the decorations and décor was nice to experience. It was wonderful to have Donna and Dianne from Windsor along with Keith, Debbie –Alberta, Joan plus Margaret’s friends. Then Keith and Debbie entertained the group at their home the night Margaret and I attended a celebratory dinner with the Governor General. No doubt Margaret will add her version to the event but it is worth repeating. Margaret took her place very graciously among the celebrities. I am sure Dad and Mother were very proud of her just as we were. Before I leave the topic I must add waiting for a year for Margaret investiture Alice and I had some amusing and exciting moments, Date was changed, then Henry Morgentaler came on the scene and last but not least Parliament Prorogue then came the day that we will all remember.
This year I would like to share some information about us as Sisters of Charity. We number 121 and the average age is about 77. A large number of Sisters are retired and they live in Saint John about 80 of us and the remaining sisters are in the west with the exception of two in Peru. Although we are few in number we are still carrying on the mission of the church and are still involved in many ministries especially related to the poor and vulnerable. Margaret is still active as a volunteer in many aspects of the Health Field .Alice is very active at Ruth Ross Residence she chairs the Liturgy, Funeral and Social committees. As always she is a great listener both for the Sisters and Staff. she knows all the staff family and helps and directs when called upon. For myself I spend most of my time with the L’Arche Community with young adults who have intellectual disabilities. The work is interesting and demanding at times but I enjoy it very much. At the convent where I live I look after the up keep of the building and assist a few sisters when the need arises. Life is not dull just praying for the family and friends keeps busy. Although we are fewer sisters we do continue to make our mark among the people who needs us. I will close with this thought.
O Christ, Light of all lights, Star of all stars.
dweller within these human homes of ours
open our wandering minds and hesitant hearts
so your endless goodness radiates more completely in us
Sr. Charlotte
Alice
Greetings 2008 is fading into the sunset. As one becomes older time passes
quickly. I shall try to relate some of the highlights of the past year. We were
very happy to welcome Deborah, Kellie, Tracy and Shane to Saint John. They came
to visit us all but in particular Gerald and Helen. We all gathered at
McDonald's Point to welcome and celebrate their arrival along with the Vickers'
were the Meahan's, Marie, Keith, Carol Ann and Sandy. It was a time of story
telling, swimming et cetera. McDonald's point is situated on Lake Washademoak.
Helen and Gerald built their cottage on this scenic Lake. We are all welcome at
any time - yes we are so Blessed.
Margaret, Charlotte and I traveled to P.E.I for a few days while there we
visited Carmel, Bruce, Jamie Lynn, Ashley and John. We were fortunate to have a
visit with Albert, Martha, Courtney and Emma as they were visiting. Carmel's new
home is most inviting.
Thanksgiving week-end we motored to the Miramichi and Dalhouise. While on the
Miramichi we had a delicious lunch at Monica's, Carol Ann joined us then Ann
dropped in to show us pictures of Laura's wedding, she was a beautiful bride.
With Alberta and Philip had another delicious Dinner. Dalhouise is suffering
since the mill closed, as it was the main source of income for the people of
Dalhousie.
Margaret receiving the Order of Canada brought a lot of excitement - since she
is the first on the Miramichi and in our Community to receive such an honor.
Joan, Alberta nd Charlotte are travelling to Ottawa where they will be received
by Kevin. Kevin has graciously offered to have a reception and dinner for her
and her friends on Thursday before the Investure. Joan, Charlotte and Alberta
will visit Mary in Burlington.. Mary keeps interested in the happenings of the
day also politics.
I must not forget our visits to Pennifield where we are so warmly welcomed by
Mary.
My Health is improving. I am blessed with the support from my siblings in Saint
John. Charlotte, Ella and Gerald also my nieces and nephews. I look forward to
2009 with Hope and with a Spirit of Thanksgiving to all who touch my life.
Gerald's Family
2008 was a very good year for our branch of the family, with lots of good news and fun family gatherings. Starting with the youngest first, we’re all excited that Paul, Ginny, Thomas and Elizabeth will be moving closer to New Brunswick. Paul has accepted a new position with the RCMP, and will now be based in Truro. While we’ll all miss their beautiful spot in Arachat, we’ll look forward to more weekend visits and even maybe some family ski trips. Ginny is working hard at her course and will soon be a fully qualified teacher’s assistant. Elizabeth and Thomas are growing like weeds, and really enjoying school and activities.
Jim, Nora and Emily are well and happy too. Nora managed to complete her Masters degree in addition to juggling motherhood and a demanding job. Congratulations!! Jim has taken on a new portfolio with Revenue Canada and is enjoying the challenge. Emily is always on the move - dancing, playing badminton, working with student leaders, and (our personal favorite) baby-sitting.
Kathy is enjoying her very challenging work as a social worker in England, helping asylum seekers settle into life in England, a rewarding but hectic job in these complicated times. She does manage to find some time for herself though, and has recently visited Poland, Austria the Czech Republic...all since her visit home in August!
Anne and Dan will be busy planning two graduations this year: Ben will graduate from high school and Daniel has completed his degree in Mechanical Engineering. Adam is working on his business degree and will be finished before we know it.
Jon and I are busy as well. Jon’s teaching full time and I’m half time, with the rest of my day spent with Ellie and Gerry, who are thoroughly enjoying grade one and all of their activities. We’ve done a bit of work on the house, and really enjoy living on the river.
Mom and Dad continue to be a great support for all of us. Mom still produces meals and cookies on a scale that would rival some small restaurants, and there’s a constant stream of visitors at 111 Meadowbank. Dad continues to work on the cottage, and we all comment constantly that we can’t believe our luck in having such a beautiful and relaxing place for all of us to share. When I sit on the deck and watch all kids swimming and playing, I’m reminded of my own childhood at Bill’s camp. We are very fortunate to be able to share such good times. We really are a lucky family.
We particularly enjoyed our visit from Deborah and her family from Winsdor. It gave us an excuse to organize a small family reunion at McDonald’s Point and we were all thrilled to see surprise visitors from the Miramichi arrive on that day. We hope to see more of our extended family throughout 2009.
Joan's Family
Greetings from North
Carolina! It's been a busy year as usual and we can't believe a year and a half
has past since our reunion in the summer of 2007. It was so wonderful to see
everyone after all the passing years. I'm not sure where to begin except to say
that Scott and I are very greatful for all the blessings in our life. Primarily
our three daughters, all healthy and doing well in school. Ella and Natalie are
first graders this year and Carolyn is a very "mature" second grader. This fall
all the girls were involved in soccer, hip-hop dance and clogging lessons
(clogging is a loud type of tap dance that originated in the south). Carolyn
has a gift for dance, so we also enrolled her in the ballet consevatory in Cary,
NC. Scott has cut back on the business travel, much to our relief! His lab at
UNC Chapel Hill continues to study microRNA's and their involvement in the
development of cancer. This past year he received Tenure for his position and
we were all very proud of him! As for me, I have found a job as an assistant
pastry chef at the Lantern Restaurant in Chapel Hill. After a year and a half
of cooking school I was thrilled to find a position that I really enjoy. Well,
I guess that wraps things up from this end. We hope you all have a wonderful
holiday season. Merry Christmas. Love the Hammond family, Kelli, Scott,
Carolyn, Elizabeth, and Natalie
Merry Christmas from California.
My mom (Joan) stays busy teaching and traveling, visiting family, friends and of course her three beautiful grandchildren in North Carolina.
As for me, I stay busy working, playing basketball through out the year and coaching Andrew in his sports.
Irene has started her own business this year, an online travel site (www.TimeSolutionsTravel.com) and is involved with Andrew’s school as the President of the parent club board.
Carli started her junior year in high school this fall and continues to excel in school. She now drives and has her 1st job.
Andrew now in 2nd grade has already achieved end of school year standards. He loves playing baseball, basketball, and football.
Alberta’s Family
Alberta and Philip are still in the quiet town of Dalhousie,in northern N.B. where all the mills are closed and many have left for work in the WEST.They are visiting Dennis and Chantal frequently in Moncton,they are busy in their new pharmacey.Julie and Sarah are home for XMAS which makes the holiday season the best ever,they will be returning to africa in January 09 , Wishing all a great year from the ABUDS