The Party Unfolded

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On Saturday we hosted the Memorial for my sister. I have to say, it was a lovely tribute for her - she would have been so happy - she would have had a blast.

Nieces and Nephews, sisters, great nieces and nephews - came from far and wide - through terrible weekend traffic - to honour her.

I put together a small photo album, with photos from when she was a child, a teenager - a working career woman at the University. I wanted to create a picture of a woman who was more than her addictions - more than a fuck up.

I wanted us all to see her at five years old - her life ahead of her - spinning in the sunshine. That photo ended up representing everything about her to me - her free spirit. I wanted them to see her sitting at her desk, smiling - organized and fully functioning.

I think I succeeded. I am exactly 10 years younger than Marilyn, we were a family of 5 sisters but she was my only sibling at home, our older sisters married and out the door by 1970. She was the one I would ask for help when the television went wonky. She was the one who took me downtown to shop for my first pair of straight-legged jeans when I was in grade 9.  She was the one I went drinking with at age 15 - and I would bum cigarettes from when I was 16. Not all the lessons were good ones, but I also learnt from her mistakes.

And she was wickedly funny until the wine pushed her into that maudlin place.

On Saturday night long after the house was empty, husband and I were dancing in front of the fireplace to the 1970s playlist on spotify I created for her - and I admit to drinking an entire bottle of white wine, and I hate white wine, and having a brutal headache on Sunday.

Now - the event is behind me and I am left with this chasm of time for August that does not include lists and tasks. My house is clean and freshly painted and I see some serious time ahead at the beach.

I think I am exhausted.

Comments

  1. Debra She Who SeeksAugust 10, 2018 at 8:29 PM

    Sounds like it was a wonderful memorial service. I can well imagine that you are exhausted on every level. You deserve some serious "me time" to rest and rejuvenate now.

    ReplyDelete
  2. BelindaNovember 17, 2025 at 8:11 AM

    I was diagnosed with IPF four years ago, and despite following standard treatments, my symptoms continued to worsen. Out of hope, I tried an herbal program from NaturePath Herbal Clinic. I was skeptical, but over a few months I personally felt some improvements in comfort, breathing, and energy. These were just my own impressions, and experiences with IPF vary widely. Herbal programs are not proven treatments, so anyone considering them should talk with their doctor first to make sure they’re safe.
    You can learn more at www.naturepathherbalclinic.com
    Email info@naturepathherbalclinic.com

    ReplyDelete

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