Over the Hill and Through the Woods....
My childhood was full of wonderful, fantastic and somewhat magical experiences. However, there are two important places that I will always remember. One being my maternal grandparents cabin on Fishing Lake, and the other, my paternal grandmother’s house. Both of which happened to be 15 minutes away from each other! As much as I cherish my lakefront memories, it is my Granny’s house that I hold most dear to my heart. Partially due to the fact she passed away unexpectedly a few short days ago, and the pang of melancholy still beats strong. Yet, my Grandma’s house is most cherished because at Granny’s people were more precious than possessions.
Regine Anne Cruickshank was an extraordinary lady full of love, compassion and a good dose of English grit. Her house was always a safe heaven, and everyone was always welcome. Granny’s house frequently smelled of freshly baked buns. They were her specialty, and always requested. She was never too busy to listen, never too busy to offer guidance, and always knitting someone special - something special.
Granny loved life. She lived for the moment, yet loved reminiscing about memories past. Her house reflected that. As I previously mentioned, Granny valued people over possessions. That isn’t to say that she didn’t own anything – because that lady had more trinkets, knickknacks, and whatcha-ma-call-its than anyone I know. These knick-knacks were Granny’s treasures brought back from adventures all over the world: some collected; some gifted. Granny didn’t care that her house looked cluttered, since she was surrounded by memories of the people she loved, and who loved her.
My family and I spent a great deal of time at my Grandmother’s house, especially in my childhood. Every (english) Easter, every (english) Christmas was spent at Granny’s house. Baba and Gigi got us for the Ukrainian holidays, so it worked out well. With Granny now gone, there will be no more holidays, or precious memories to be had at Granny’s house. Soon it will be sold off to the highest bidder. Undoubtedly, that will be a very sad day. However, Granny’s house will live on. For when I have grandchildren of my own, I will teach them to value family over possessions, to be happy everyday, and to surround themselves with what they love.
Peace, Love and Laughter Y'all
