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Lorna Stansfield Obituary
Memories and Condolences
for Lorna Stansfield
Sponsored by Her Devoted Daughter, Brenda.
28 Entries
Brenda Stansfield
August 20, 2024
August 20, 2024
Hello Mommy!
Happy (what would have been your) 85th Birthday! I imagine they are having a big bash for you up there with all the peeps in our lives that are there with you. You deserve a party! And I am planning on having a wee one in your honour tonight too, when Laureen and I have our weekly Tuesday "Happy Hour" by phone. Cheers to you, Mom! :)
There have been lots of opera-themed things going on of late and, of course, I always think of you when I hear of them. Phantom Of The Opera on Broadway, which began in 1988 had it's final and 14,000th show last year after 35 years, 70 awards and grossing over $1Billion. Wow! Pacific Opera Victoria put on a lovely series all over the grounds of Government House and Saxe Point called "Voices In Nature". UVic now has a Musical Theatre School and those students hit New York for some sessions put on by "the experts" and took in some Broadway shows too. Fun! Marion Newman, a very talented indigenous mezzo soprano and host of Saturday Afternoon at The Opera is now an associate Prof at the UVic School of Music, where you attended as a mature student. I like listening to her show when I am indoors on a Saturday. Also, Timothy Vernon retired after 43 years as head of Pacific Opera Victoria. He will be missed. I took a picnic along and attended a Symphony in the Park recital at Cameron Bandshell concert in July - and it also included an operatic duet feature, which was really nice. But as splendid as the very pregnant Diva's voice was, it definitely didn't compare to your lovely singing voice, Mom. I am so glad I can still hear it in my head, and can listen to it on the old LP's, tapes and CD's that remain. You truly had a special god given talent for sure, and I imagine you up there on stage often.
I continue to listen to my favourite CBC Radio stations during the day and heard of a new study lately that says that having chocolate in the morning for post- menopausal women will not increase your weight or blood sugar and also decreases your appetite! Bonus! Though, I do suspect you shouldn't overdo the intake. I have yet to try it as I don't really have a hankering for chocolate in the am. And, luckily I don't have elevated blood sugar levels and I am at a healthy weight for my size and continue to walk everywhere. I am so grateful to live in a neighbourhood where everything is so close. I especially enjoy going to all the parks and gardens where there is often Art Shows or Music Events and Festivals happening. One of my favourites this year was the first ever ArtisTREE at Government House where I got to see Bindon, Lucinda and Jason who were there to see Linda's jewellery booth. She still does her silver creations but has added blown glass and the pieces are amazing and so colourful. The grounds were full of talented artists and their wares.
I still thoroughly enjoy my garden and must say the your Forsythia and May Tree had the most splendid show this year, Mom. I have been on watering duty for various neighbours throughout the summer when they headed off on holiday. I love helping out, though didn't venture far this year as I am just a happy little homebody and don't really feel the need to "escape". But Dyane and Andy-man and I did a fun Stay-cation in May at the same hotel that we had Terry's farewell party, though a different room overlooking another part of the inner harbour. I like to think that I prefer to keep my carbon footprint down by staying local but part of that is also that I am so utterly content. I travel sitting in my armchair watching PBS and Knowledge Network! :)
I am so glad that I finally got around to having a bit of a Memorial for Friends of Rob's on my back deck this past spring. There were 11 of us and it was a really nice send off and goodbye party for our friend. Bobby came down from Comox, Gerry from Sidney and the rest of the gang was there too. Everyone enjoyed themselves and Andy said he wanted one just like it when he goes! :) It really was time to say goodbye. I seem to be pretty good at putting on parties for people - present and passed! :)
Exciting news: I have started my newest volunteer adventure! I am a companion for elderly residents of the Mount St. Mary's care home in their new Tri-Shaw cycle program. It started as a favour to a friend. Holly McD's uncle is a resident and she asked me if I could help out with visiting him when she was away. It is so much fun for me to hang and visit with the older folks while being driven around this lovely city taking in the sights. I just love it! And my old dental school instructor Jackie is also volunteering in the program as well. Small world!
Well, I should get at the rest of my day and prepare for my gourmet meal in your honour. Yes, there will be some sort of chocolate dessert, with a candle for me to make a wish!
I miss you so much, Mom, and I am so grateful to have had you as my sweet, funny, smart and loving Mother. You are always in my heart.
Love always, Brenda
(Your Little Pickle Nose!)
Brenda Stansfield
June 20, 2023
June 20, 2023
Hello Mommy!
I still find it hard to believe that you have been gone for 6 years now and I still miss you so very much. And it warms my heart that Kim continues to honour your memory at this time of year by sending along photo-cards of you in days gone by during your many visits to Valentine Farm.
Kim and John and their traveling cat, Isa The Magnificent, were actually here for almost a week visiting and taking in the musical "Come From Away" at The Royal Theatre as my treat in May. It was a totally wonderful show and really eventful and fun visit. Adam came over for a several days on his way to a Canadian Snowboard Association meeting in Gibson's. I had a really nice connection with him this visit. The next big event will be Uncle Geoff and Lynn staying with for a few days in July after getting off a Jazz Cruise out of Seattle. And then Laureen is coming over in August to see the Beyond Van Gogh immersive event, which I am really looking forward to. Today The Whytes and I will raise a toast to you at Rudi's Tea House at Government House after a walk in the lovely garden that you and Dad helped maintain many years ago. :)
I am looking out into our garden at Ye Olde Redfern Homestead and marveling at the beauty and colour of it all. Your May Tree, rhodos, wisteria, California Lilac were all stunning this year and the Snowball Tree has finally made a decent showing after being decimated by those pesky deer. The roses are still blooming and the clematis is trying to do its best to put on a good show. And the plants that I contributed to the garden are doing okay too! Ha! There is certainly a lot of whimsy for passers-by to wonder at and the Living Easel is looking better than ever with a new frame and loads of bright flowers tumbling over. There were three gardens on Redfern taking part in the Teeny Tiny Garden Tour this year and, as they "book ended" my garden I made sure that there was something to entertain the masses as they strolled by. There is a lot of colour...even when nothing is in bloom! We are in the midst of a severe drought since last summer and I am trying to put in plants that don't need much water. Sadly the Kiwi had to be cut down this year but my fig tree has one fig on it so that is a bonus. Perhaps next year when it is not competing with the kiwi for water it will flourish! Right now I have hung about 10 glass pears on it and refer to it as my "P-ig" tree. :) This garden really is my Happy Place and I feel close to you and Dad when I am out there puttering around.
Speaking of colour, I finally had cataract surgery last November/January and I can't believe the difference in how I see the world through my new eyes. And I now understand why purple was my favorite colour when I was a kid. It is amazing how bright it is! And the lenses in my new glasses, which I still need due to astigmatism are sure a lot thinner than before! I didn't realize how my vision had deteriorated over the years, though I still can't believe I will be closer to 65 than 60 at my next Birthday. Sheesh! I am till managing to really enjoy this glorious experience called LIFE, though!
I still love reading and curating Lorna's Little Free Library and walking everywhere keeps me fit, although a bit of sciatica and plantar fasciaitis flares up periodically. Stretching helps but you gotta keep moving, man. I volunteer at the Oak Bay Church Thrift Sale on Friday's and am now a member of SHAS with Mike and Ronella - we had our annual Summer Fling for Father's Day this past weekend out at Heritage Acres and I got to ride the trains like we all used to back in the day. Seems I am getting pretty good at taking photos of families on the Steam Powered Rocking Bench that Mike runs. I just have to press a button on people's phones but it is nice that they all get to be in the photo without it being a selfie. Sometimes arms are just not long enough! I also help out my wonderful neighbours when needed (I will be fixing Gary's gate this afternoon) and was pretty excited to pick up an an almost-new Lee Valley push mower last year at a yard sale around the corner for only $30! I enjoy it so much I tend to mow many of the boulevards on this side of the street. It is so quiet...
And my beloved CBC Radio keeps me well entertained throughout the day when I am puttering around inside the house. Tom Allen's afternoon program recently held the "Belle Canto Bru Ha Ha" with Puccini's "Oh Mio Babino Carro" as the selected aria. They would play two versions recorded by various famous sopranos and the listeners were to vote weekly on their choice of the best one (and why),and the winner gets to compete again the following week. I personally think that your performance at age 18 on the 78 LP that I have would have blown the rest of the field away, Mom. :) You really were a superstar!
In fact I was recently going through all of the programs and reviews for you and Dad over your years on the competing and performing stages and you really did shine up there. It was fun to re-visit them. I am in the middle of reading the script for The Snow Queen that you guys performed in Kelowna as ravens Karl and Klara and I can still see in my mind's eye you flying across the stage with your umbrella...and the sounds of you "crash-landing off stage. I really wish there was some sort of recording or program of that show but, sadly, I haven't been able to find one. But I still have the pulley that flung you high above and across the stage!
Sad news of some of those of note in my life who have left us since my last missive, including Queen Elizabeth (it feels odd having King Charles as our monarch now) , actors Angela Lansbury and Sidney Poitier, conductor and composer, Bramwell Tovey, Global News's Deb Hope and most unfortunate personally, Aunt Loree, and especially Rob McManus. So very sad and I still find it hard to believe he is gone...far too young. I have many wonderful memories of our time together and really believe I was so fortunate to have been with him during his best years. He is missed and I know you will treat him as family when you see him up there.
Well, I should get on with things and head out to meet Dyane and Andyman. I am sure there will be many stories of fun times our families enjoyed together in the past. And I will get to hear about the fun antics of their 2 grandsons as well, which is a delight for me!
Thanks for instilling in me all the truly important values in life, which guide me through my days and nights , and the sense of joy and magic that accompanies me on my journey. I look forward to each day with a sense of wonder...usually wondering if I will actually accomplish everything on "the list" or if, once again, I will have to just put those items over to the list for tomorrow! Ha!
Thanks for watching over me, Mom. Please give big hugs to Dad and Terry and the rest of "our people" for me. I miss you!
Love and Hugs, Brenda...Your Little Pickle Nose :)
Brenda Stansfield
August 19, 2022
August 20, 2022
Birthday Greetings Mommy!
I celebrated you today in perfect style whilst attending a special event at Government House in honour of Queen Elizabeth's 70 years of reign. Her Platinum Jubilee has seen many events happen here in Victoria and around the Commonwealth this year and today's was quite fun with a speech by Lt. Gov. Janet Austin (and trusty sidekick McDuff the Scottie Dog), entertainment by the Symphony Orchestra, Pacific Opera, Ballet Victoria and the Carey Castle Pipe Band. Fantastic. And I was fortunate to try Yam Ice Cream (purple, of course!) and it was fabulous. Very festive and I though of you and Dad, especially when perusing the plants for sale by the Friends of Government House. Remember those good old days when you used to volunteer with that fun group of folks? Too bad Dad's knee blew out while, once again, volunteering, at Yellow Point Lodge? And thus ended your careers as garden helpers...well, except for here at Ye Olde Redfern Homestead, of which I am eternally grateful. :)
I have recently returned from a wonderful 3 week holiday taking the train across Canada and it was truly amazing. Uncle Geoff came out on the train to pick me up. He was able to spend one night with me and J before he and I took the early ferry the next day to head back to Pacific Station in Vancouver and jump on the Canadian (2) for our 4 day/4 night Brenda's Big Train Adventure. It was so lovely to travel with my Uncle and hear all his stories of that side of my family's history. He was also very fond of you and Dad too and said I was sure lucky to get a step-dad like him. I wholeheartedly concur! I was so surprised how fascinated and placated I was to just sit around so much and gaze out the window at our amazing country go by through the large windows of the train. It was truly mesmerizing and I highly recommend it. It shocked me that such an active person could be so contented with lazing around. I enjoyed meeting and conversing with some wonderful fellow travelers, the staff was exceptional, the food amazingly delicious (prepared by Red Sealed Chefs), and of course the vistas going by were breathtaking.
I was so grateful for that once in a lifetime opportunity.
I was also able to see cousin Adam and Jen, spend time sightseeing around Thornbury, hang out on their Island in Georgian Bay (Island #1, Honey Harbour), and meet and enjoy the company of Geoff's new friend Lynne. They are like a couple of teenagers in love and it is just so cute. Lynne invited me to stay with her, which was so kind, and we really bonded. She is a lovely person, very fun to be with and I am so happy for both of them. They both sadly lost their life-long partners last December and it is rare to have the opportunity to get a second chance at love after all that time with one person. She told me she has never laughed so much in her life since meeting my very special Uncle. Nice. My return trip home on the second leg of Brenda's Big Train Adventure was as wonderful as the first portion. Different, as I was traveling solo, which is something that I never thought I would enjoy but train travel is a very social thing and I enjoyed it immensely. Geoff booked me a sleeper cabin for my trip home so I would have some privacy and feel safer, which was so very kind of him. Once again, I met equally enthusiastic train fans and we had a blast together. You will be surprised to hear that I actually played Bingo while on the train...it was advertised as Wine Bingo on the Activity Board and, well, I just couldn't pass THAT one up. It was a combination of wine tasting and Bingo. I didn't win any prizes but did taste some nice wines! It really is the only way to play Bingo in my humble opinion.
I continue to keep myself busy and truly content around the house and garden. May 1st was apparently Naked Gardening Day but alas, I missed celebrating that one due to, well, too much exposure, shall we say. The weather hasn't bee as extreme this year as it was in 2021, but we had a very cool spring, often referred to in the news as Springuary or Mayvember. And we have had intermittent heat waves over the past month or so, but nothing like the Heat Dome of last year. Not all of my plants survived my absence but that was as I expected - Jason was the head gardener while I was away. And while it was very kind of him to offer to take that extensive duty on, he has little knowledge in matters horticultural in nature. And those pesky deer are challenging (mostly overriding!) my choice of plants at every turn so many of the lovely ones are relegated to the back yard behind the unique deer fence I have created. I have not done very much outdoor (or indoor for that matter) entertaining this year as Covid is still an issue but perhaps this Fall. I might take a little hop over to Summerland to see Kimstan and John but they have just returned from an extensive but amazing 3-month excursion in the Spidey Van up to the Yukon with their cat, Iza the Magnificent so they might want to just get back to normal life again. They sent frequent blogs to keep inquiring minds in the loop with details of their adventures on the road. Suffice it to say, they had a very interesting time and the photos they sent were amazing. Kerry bought a Chevy Van and is fixing it up for a road trip she plans to take when all the travel restrictions are lifted to and from the US. Not sure when that will be, though, but good on her for having a project.
Well, I should go and let you get back to what is no doubt a wonderful Birthday Party up there for you. Please say hi to everyone for me and thanks again for watching over me and keeping me safe, which in turn ensures my happy state of mind. I feel your loving arms around me so often, Mom, and I know you are right here in my heart as always. And that is so very comforting for me.
Love you and Big Birthday Hugs!
Your favorite daughter, with the Little Pickle Nose,
Brenda :)
Brenda Stansfield
January 3, 2022
January 2022
Happy New Year, Mommy! May this year bring back that fun tradition called "socializing"! We are sadly still experiencing the Covid annoyance around the world and it does effect some people more than others. Thankfully, I do not travel much but others do and tend to unintentionally spread it around that way. I had my Booster shot in mid December which brings me great relief. Most likely they will add this "flu" to the other flu protection with the yearly flu shot, which I still get as well. So far I am doing well in the health department, which at 61 is good, I guess. I keep active with walking, hiking, gardening...and I eat a relatively healthy diet so that keeps me rolling along nicely.
The past Christmas season started with a Redfern Street Christmas Light-Up Party, organized by Hazel next door but there were lots of us little helpers and food donators. Thankfully, it didn't rain but we set up a tent at the end of my driveway to cover the food/drink tables (all decked out in festive lights and decor) just in case. We had over 50 people and 5 dogs attend! There was a community tree set up at Terry and Rick's, where we gathered to place a personalized home-decorated wood ornament (supplied by Graham's recent fallen tree branch) and then we all ran back to our respective houses to switch on all the fantastic displays of lights. It was so much fun to gather and visit (J didn't attend as "it wasn't his thing). We were able to block the street off from 5-7pm and set up propane fire pits for awesome warmth and brought our own chairs to gather along the flat part of the street from my place to the Currie's. It was so successful there is talk of making it an annual event! Mostly everyone's lights are still up...and as I have continued to add to my "Winter" theme over the years, I figure I can leave them up much longer than would normally be socially acceptable. Not like when I lived on Maddison though, when I left the lights up all year! Ha! I may leave the little white lights on the frame around the Living Easel up even longer because they are pretty basic and will draw attention to it's constantly changing "exhibit" throughout the year. This year's Photo Christmas Card was fun to create. It is the first time since 2016 that I have actually been on the card. There was an old bright red British Phone Box placed outside a closed-up "used treasures" shop up on Oak Bay Ave a few months ago and my brain went right to "photo-op". I dressed as an elf and with my trusty emergency phone in hand, created a "Calling Card". It was fun to make and I have had lots of feedback. I do love the homemade cards! Mostly, Christmas was very quiet, though, with hardly any gatherings on my part, not for lack of invites, though, with both the Family Mitchell and amazingly the Family Kinghorn - including Lucinda, Jason and Max being invited to Bindon and Linda's for a Union Club gourmet meal. It would have been lovely but I, being on my own, I really don't want to come down with anything as there is no one to listen to me complain about how sick I am...Sigh. I am happy to just stay healthy and happy! :) I did get to have small visits with Mike and Ronella and Luke, The Whytes, Holly and James, Lucinda/Jason/Max, and The Forbes' dropped by whilst in the hood and a few more people. I made a delicious Christmas dinner and Jason and his phone joined me to eat it and then he went home. :) We did have a lovely big dump of snow in the midst of a polar vortex that blanketed the province so I was on foot throughout most of the Festive Season and also got to "socialize" with the Evans' and Rick while shoveling the white stuff for many an neighbour, which I always enjoy. It was pretty icy and cold, though, for a few weeks. Rains came yesterday and it is almost all gone.
Extreme weather has certainly been the thing this year in the news. In the summer we had a terrible heat wave/dome (40 degrees C.+) followed by extreme fire season that destroyed much of the province and then lots of rain and major flooding ("always buy a house at the top of a hill, not the bottom", as Dad always said) that caused major destruction taking out major highways, homes, parts of whole towns, and agricultural areas in BC. And then the cold snap we just had. Sheesh! Most expensive year for climate change caused weather events, they say. And along with the pandemic it will take years to rebuild. Very sad for those affected. As the Stansfield Family Fire is only on DVD at present, (Mike is helping with chimney repairs soon) the baseboards have been going full tilt this winter. And there has been a lot of scraping of ice off some of the windows...the INSIDE of the windows! Silly single pane windows I just haven't gotten around to replacing yet. But the storm windows work great on the original old ones...except for J's, of course. Air Flow, Buddy! Gotta keep that accumulated moisture off with a trusty squeegee so that doesn't happen, man. Needless to say, I have been kept busy with all sorts of little duties this year around Ye Olde Redfern Homestead. But I love the old place - people say it is worth close to a mil...but it is still priceless to me!
Sadly, we have lost many wonderful souls this past year, including my sweet Aunt Lorraine (thank you for being there to welcome her with loving open arms). I am in constant contact with Uncle Geoff, as I do adore him and his integrity, intelligence, fun sense of humour, mischief and musical talent. I feel like he is the only blood family I have left who I am close to - but I also thank goodness for all the other "family" I still have who show me such love and support. I am a very lucky gal for sure. We also lost Christopher Plummer (91) - but not till after he got his face on a Canadian Stamp!, Stephen Sondheim (91) -Send In The Clowns, and West Side Story fame, among other great shows, Sally Ann Howes (91)- aka Truly Scrumptious of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and many others, famous and not, including Barbara Kemble, beloved wife of neighbour Garry. Remember she used to bring Zoe the pug puppy upstairs to visit you and dad many years ago? She was a special and most interesting and entertaining woman and we all miss her. Garry and Zoe are still walking the hood daily, though a little slower of late. I plan to have him over to share a lovely bottle of wine he dropped off over the holidays to thank me for helping him with some stuff. Nice.
Another sad event happened when Ben Hepner retired from CBC Radio's Backstage (and Sat. afternoon at the Opera). I shall still continue to stay tuned, though, as it brings me closer to you with memories of Saturdays past.
And finally some wonderful things that also made me think of you this year was the discovery of Pumpkin Fudge at the Saanich Fair and every time the Ice Cream Truck traveled musically though the neighbourhood - now I am the one running down the street trying to catch him! :) Well, I guess there are other kids out there chasing it too.
So, as another year is beginning, the sun is shining out there on this crisp wintry day, new and exhilarating adventures will begin for your little Pickle Nose and I am looking forward to a fabulous year of seeing people, working on garden/house projects, perhaps tripping off to Kim and John's and maybe even take a train trip to see Uncle Geoff as he has offered to pay for it. I love trains! Very exciting and incredibly scary for me too. I guess I will have to get more proficient at that cell phone thing that I have been resisting... Hmmmm.
Thanks so much for always looking out for me and guiding me along my journey - I do feel you with me always, Mom. I feel so blessed to have had the parents, upbringing and life given to me. It is a Wonderful Life!
With much love and Huggles to you and Dad and Ubu too!
Your Loving Daughter, Brenda XXXOOO
Brenda Stansfield
June 20, 2021
Hi Mom,
So many of your "Peeps" have sent messages of remembrance of you today that I just wanted to let you know that, while you are gone, you will never be forgotten.
Love you, Mom,
Brenda Gay
Brenda Stansfield
June 20, 2021
June 20, 2021
Hello Mommy!
I still find it so hard to believe that you have been gone for 4 years now and I miss you as much as when you first left. I am so sorry that your body gave you such trouble over the last several years but, being such a trooper, you still managed to bring joy to me and Daddy and to your friends (especially your antics with Bindon biting his lapel on his last visit to you - we all laughed so hard at that one and still do at the memory) and your amazing caregivers. One in a million I say, dear MaMa.
Today was the final episode of NXNW on CBC radio with Brian Dance, as he is retiring after 51 years in broadcasting, and I think 20 with the CBC. Cheryl MacKay (sp?) will continue with hosting so that is good as it really does start my Sat/Sunday off on a fun note listening to that show and remember how you guys used to love it too. There were so many wonderful tributes to The Dancer; it sounded like he was well respected as a consummate professional and fun co-worker. Rumour has it that every second radio was tuned to the show in Victoria this morning! :)
It is Father's Day today so I spent the day out at Saanich Artifacts Heritage Acres with Mike and The Mitchells as is the tradition for me now. Remember how we all used to love riding those wee trains around the property? Mike has put a bunch of work in lately on the trails so it was good to see all his amazing endeavors.
Ye Olde Redfern Garden Plot (or is that "plod"?) continues to impress me and the neighbours. Your May Tree was absolutely spectacular this year and has just finished. It looks so good against the Blue Spruce, which has seen better days since the neighbours workmen cleaned drywall mud under it with their hose last summer. I hope I can totally revive it as it is a stunning and magnificent specimen. I did a major pruning and topping so hopefully that will help. I may have to supplement with watering this summer though as it is already starting to show signs of a hot and dry year once again. The pots look nice in all their annual colour is impressive if I do say so myself - I do enjoy my garden! I still hear the ice cream truck music tinkling around the hood but I seem to be much too slow to catch up to it once I find a few loonies to contribute to the totally worthy cause. Maybe next time. I found some delicious Maple Leaf shaped maple walnut ice cream bars at Save-On recently (only 90 calories - unless you dish it and add chocolate and salted caramel sauce over-top, which sometimes happens unexplainedly). Perhaps I will share my many boxes with some friends if I happen to put on a little party for July 1st to celebrate Canada. Hopefully when re-opening progresses from the pandemic and there are more substantial steps toward our First Nations TRC and acceptance of our immigrants, and following supports/apologies/reparations for past sad deeds we can all celebrate this wonderful country again together with gusto! I was exhilarated to recently find a cool Canadian Native Flag. The two designs on the red side bands are K'utala-salmon to convey the importance of family, friendships and strength in numbers and the design within the maple leaf is the head of a killer whale in the shape of an oval surrounded by traditional Indigenous designs. It was designed by Campbell River First Nations artist Mulidzas-Curtis Wilson (1980-2020) and is meant to signify "Standing together in support of each other." I bought many to display tomorrow, which is National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada. Gotta love any excuse to decorate the place!
I have had both of my Covid 19 vaccines now so feel safer but still plan to take precautions as I would hate to end up in the hospital alone. I will soon start to entertain more too, which will be fun. The neighbours had a kids' Smores party last weekend and the ones next to them had a backyard Projector Movie Night - Liv even came over to warn me so I wouldn't be upset if it ran late. Gawd I love my neighbourhood! I had a little impromptu gathering when Laurie, Michael and Rosie (such a cutie!) came down to drop off books and pick up that picture you left them in your estate. They invited me up for a visit and am looking forward to seeing all their improvements, like no more jetted tub but a nice walk in shower...and raising a big glass or two to honour those Stansfields sadly departed and missed profoundly. I am so looking forward to it.
Well, Mom, I should carry on with the rest of my day but I wanted to let you know you are always in my heart and in my head guiding me along my merry way. Much appreciated, as you well know. I shall raise a glass to you and the memory of your wonderful earthly antics - maybe more than a few as today is also the Summer Solstice so longest day of the year to get those bevvies in!
Please give big hugs to all the rest of the Clan for me, especially Dad and Terry. Hugs are starting to come back to being acceptable protocol down here on the Blue Planet so I am super excited about that too!
Love you, Mom, and miss you so very much,
Brenda, your little pickle nose and Best Daughter Ever! (in my humble opinion!) :)
Brenda Stansfield
May 10, 2021
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY, MOMMY!
Well, it turned out to be a lovely one out there for me to celebrate all things YOU! I have really been missing you of late so it was good to spend the day with my thoughts and wonderful memories of such a great Mom and mentor you were to me. Your way you lived and approached the world with such positivity is still an inspiration. Your life lessons on how to see and experience our wonderful planet, our responsibilities to care for it and all those who inhabit it (well, except for flies!)...and to try to share a little brightness and joy to your surroundings and beyond if you can. You used to say that no matter what you might be going through personally, there are always others out there who are experiencing something far worse so you need to keep your perspective and realize how truly lucky and blessed that you are. Words to live by, especially now.
And with the current state of our Blue Planet facing all the incredible difficulties it is in with all the critical environmental changes, and this worldwide Covid 19 pandemic's second (or third?) wave it is so incredibly difficult and sad for so many, it just breaks my heart sometimes. And it is so hard not to be able to gather together safely to support each other with comfort and hugs (I miss hugs the most, I think!), It is nice to try to keep in contact with friends and family to lift spirits and keep connections by email, phone, cards/letters and whatever other creative, yet safe means available. And I give support where I can to pitch in to try to make life a tiny bit easier for those who just might need a little boost...and that lifts one's own spirits in return. Sweet!
And their are so many uplifting stories out there of the creativity and resilience of people who have to work from home and find a small corner of their abode in which to do that. One of my favorite is CBC Radio personality, Paulo Petro-Paulo, with the In Concert Series...now coming to you from "Studio Blanket Fort". Too funny. Yes, CBC radio is still my favorite form of daily entertainment that brings me much joy and memories of our lives together. Unfortunately, due to safety protocols in place at present, all live performances have been postponed so the Metropolitan Opera has skipped it's first season in 140 years. But they are re-broadcasting their previous shows but still with live hosts, which keeps things current. Recently I enjoyed the Snow Queen - this simpleton didn't know it was an opera, and just thought it was a pantomime, like the one you and Dad were in in Kelowna many moons ago. Remember Carl and Clara, the Ravens? Dad played his role mimicking the voice of W.C. Fields, and the stage crew had you flying across the stage up on a zip line of sorts, holding an umbrella...then you would crash off stage (super sound effects there!) and come back out with a broken brolly and all disheveled. Ha! You always brought so many a laugh, you two. And you guys had the orchestra play the British Airways theme for a bit in anticipation of your entrance- stage left-to you your shtick. I remember that show so well and really wished we could have found someone who recorded it. Oh why didn't Terry get on his broadcasting bandwagon sooner?!? I also remember how you guys hated those uncomfortable one-piece rubber raven suits you had to wear with all the layers of latex feathers and such. So many funny stories of you guys entertaining "the masses". Now, with no live audiences, the Arts have to be so creative, and recording their performances...some even filling the seats with plants, or paper-cut out faces...or blow-up dolls to perform in front of. It must be challenging not to have that all-important audience feedback. But you gotta keep going and soon things will get back to a more normal way of life. And to keep their chops in fine form, Pacific Opera has put on some Pop-Up Opera performances for Long Term Care residents, which much bring such joy as there is limited visitors and that must be so lonely for them. And I also heard that the English National Opera is having their opera singers teaching Covid survivors how to "catch their breath" by showing them special techniques that singers use. Very cool!
And, with no parades happening at present, I heard that New Orleans put on a special "Yardi-Gras" this year, where they had a drive-by tributes and parades in certain neighbourhoods. That would have been fun! I guess there is a lot of drive-thru celebrations now, from Birthday's to graduations...anything to make those important milestones memorable.
And speaking of memorable, Andy and Dyane had their first grand baby, Wallace William Whyte, born March 28th. Proud parents, Duncan and Maddy are over the moon! He is such a cutie in those photos -he looks like he has Andy's pouty lips! They also bought their first house a couple of weeks before the birth so they are quite the little family. And soon, when everyone is vaccinated and it is safer for people to gather again I will get a chance to meet him and check out their place up by UVic. So exciting!
So, in my little world I still have a couple of people in my bubble - Mike and Ronella, and Dyane and Andy. Mostly we just go for walks and talks but I get a lot of socializing in whilst working in the garden and chatting with neighbours and others passing by to see what kind of project I am currently working on. And I continue to have a standing Sunday "Heppy Hour" phone conversation with Disneyland Sue, which we both enjoy so much as we are both pretty silly and laugh a lot and being single, it is nice to have a "visit" with others when you get the opportunity.
And soon we will all get the chance to gather together again and entertain our people! Laurie and Michael are settling in nicely at Fairbridge Manor, and plan to come down soon when it is safe to have a visit here, drop off some of Doris' books for Lorna's Little Free Library and do some shopping in the Big City of Victoria! I am really looking forward to that. And speaking of those ever popular Free Libraries, there are now 450 of them in the Capital Regional District, I understand, and they have added some Little Free Food Pantry boxes in some needy neighbourhoods. And I saw on the news that there is a Little Free Plant Stand, where you can pick up and trade plant starts for your own garden, both culinary and floral, and I think you can trade seeds too! There are so many raised beds popping up on peoples boulevards lately that I am sure this passion for gardening and growing your own food will continue with vigor! People are amazing!
Well, it is time for me to sign off for now. You and the rest of the Stan-Clan likely have a rousing game of "Geo-Pardy" to get to, now that Alex Trebeck has joined your fun circle up there. I remember how much you used to enjoy watching that show. And Cash Cab! Aunt Lorraine and Uncle Geoff enjoy that one too - I do call them regularly to keep in touch with that side of the family back in Ontario. Gosh, I miss my family! But you are always in my thoughts and memories and happily guiding me along my path and I thank you all for that.
Ta ta, for now, my sweet little Mommy. I love you so much!
Love and big Hugs, Brenda...your little Pickle Nose!
Brenda Stansfield
August 21, 2020
August 20/21, 2020
Birthday Greetings Sweet Mommy!
Well, the plan this year was to have Di and Bob over to celebrate your Birthday and Bob's Landmark 70th Birthday but those plans fell through unfortunately, but I did still celebrate your day raising a glass of bubbly...and treating myself to a delectable Praline Perfection ice cream...SWEET! And we are finally getting some much needed rain to squelch some of the seasonal forest fires set by impressive lightening displays so it is okay that the Gibson's aren't here as we would just be inside, eating, drinking, doing puzzles, laughing and, well, all the things we used to do when we got together to celebrate Bob and Bubble's Birthdays! I do miss those good old days...
Mike kindly dropped by this morning to help top one of the pine Christmas trees between our house and The Curries. They are having a brand new kitchen put in so it will be nice for more light to come into their new space. I just wasn't quite tall enough to get at the top - go figure! Mike is such a big help to me. I was invited over to Bindon and Linda's for a lovely 4 course patio dinner a couple of weeks ago and one of Linda's good friends has a new squeeze...Yep! Mike's Mom, Sue! It sure is a small town! I hope she is happy as I haven't seen her since she started seeing Mick - and I believe they are co-habitating as I understand he has a lovely piece of property for them to frolic. She deserves to be happy and treated well, as do we all.
I still spend lots of time in the garden as I have just so many projects I want to attempt. I recently finished replacing on of the front dry river bed walkways (becoming precarious for almost-60 year old ankles!) with some of the slate that you and Dad liberated from The Campbell's place on Pender Island. It was a lot of work but it looks fantastic and Mike was suitably impressed...always a nice pat on the back for me like you and Daddy used to give me. And I feel so much more secure walking on it as I don't have to be so careful. It is wide enough for the lawnmower, wheelbarrow...and a walker if I ever need to use one of those. Hope not but you never know what the future holds and, as Uncle Garry used to say...you gotta make a plan - then work your plan. And my plan is to age in place here over the next 20 or so years so there you go!
Well, I should get out there and cut up the tree branches that Mike helped me with. I will do as Dad did and sit under the Lacy Pine out back and contemplate my navel as I snip away and fill the bins to take to the composting facility tomorrow morning. Some things never change, which I love, especially when they are good things like remembering you both and Terry too. I miss you all so much but you are in my heart and head and I feel you always looking over me and guiding me along on my merry way.
Much love to you, Birthday Girl! I may make it a week long celebration!
With gratitude from a most dedicated daughter for being the Best Mom Ever!
Love and hugs, your little pickle-nose, Brenda :)
Brenda Stansfield
June 26, 2020
June 20, 2020
Hello Mommy!
I can't believe it has been three years since you've been gone. I miss you every day and am still hearing your voice in my head telling me to "try again!" and other things you used to say to encourage me to put the effort in to be my best self and you'll always feel better when you do. You are so wise so I will continue to keep trying... :)
Today is also The Summer Solstice and it is a beautiful day to spend out in my garden, which I am doing a lot of as there isn't much else to do at present. A lot of people are spending time at home with family right now and Mother Nature is rewarding us for our good behavior with a spectacular showing of blossoms this year. I don't think your pink/orange rhodo has ever looked so fantastic and it is huge! So many people sit on Dad's bench beside it and just stare at it in awe. All the other spring flowers flourished too, especially the forget-me-nots, which always remind me of you with smiles as they were on your wedding band. I think most of the alstromeria have run their course after so many years so I will see if I can get another showy yellow flower to grow there like rudbeckia for the butterflies...going for the easy care the older I get! I am growing some lettuce in my portable salad bar out back too...but the nasturtiums are the only thing that I planted that is thriving. But I still love my little garden and am so glad that I bought the house from you and Dad in 1998 and had you upstairs looking over me. Some things just never change! This spring I painted my massive collection of cages (13 in total, bird and otherwise) bright colours and have filled the ones big enough with solar lights that change colour at night. Very impressive! And so much easier than putting plants in that I have to water all the time! I did put plants in the biggest one that is now a bright shade of red, though, as it looks pretty cool. I have hung some in the back yard and 6 smaller ones hanging on what is left of the Dogwood tree that you guys loved so much in the front. I think it is just a stick tree right now but the cages look cute!
Tomorrow is Father's Day and I have been invited over to Mike and Ronella's for an outdoor brunch with their kids and partners. There will be 9 of us and we will spend the time in the back garden, which they have fenced in and now Mila, my favorite puppy, can run wild and not be tempted to chase after cyclists! I am really looking forward to getting out and about finally, but still safely. I have entertained in my back garden on 2 occasions in the past several weeks but for couples (Mike and Ronella & Noel and James) and singles (Disneyland Sue) only, which is still fun. And Disneyland Sue and I do an "Heppy Hour" by phone on Sundays at 4, which is something to look forward to. Mostly I am the one to reach out to my circle of peeps but they all have their own family so I guess it is different for them. And I often get visits from neighbours Noel and James' cat, Cash. He has figured out how to jump through my magnetic screen door at the back and sometimes I don't know he is there until I turn around and find I have a Cat Carpet in my kitchen! He is a lovely friendly little furball...who likes to scratch up my wicker chair, the scoundrel! I now have Grandma's hands too, with all the hand washing going on. I remember your lovely hands and wish I was blessed with those instead.
I thought of you when I saw on TV a opera singer singing alone in Notre Dam Cathedral on Good Friday. There were no parishioners, of course, and they are still renovating due to some damage last year. But I still think you have the greatest classical singing voice of anyone I have ever heard, Mom. This year Canada Post put out a stamp to commemorate 100 years of Radio and it has a photo of Soprano Dorothy Lutton who performed live from Montreal on May 20th, 1920 for the first broadcast. I am doing a lot of listening to my CBC radio lately too. There are no movie theaters open so watching TV is popular. And I still revisit my huge collection of DVD Movies and am so grateful that I still have them.
And now the whole Senior Stansfields are finally all together again, with the sudden passing of lovely Auntie Doris in April. I spoke to her on the phone on her 90th Birthday in February but then was unable to arrange a visit with everyone keeping proper distancing, but was still emailing and phone-chatting with her. I have happily reconnected with Laurie since then, as she comes over to Fairbridge to sort things out up there. And Cousin Ron is a talented published author! Kim sent me his book and I enjoyed the stories and poems so much that I hope he continues with his literary endeavors.
I received a card from Kim remembering you three years on, and Mike and Ronella sent a lovely remembrance email too. You will never be forgotten, my sweet Mother and now you have more companions to reconnect with having Millie, the Yellow Point Lodge cook joining you all too. So many great and fun gals all together!
Well, I should get at the rest of my planned day. Please give Daddy and Terry and everyone else a great big long hug from me...I really am missing the hugs!
Thanks for all your guidance and little secret messages of Love. You are truly the best Mom Ever!
Love, your little pickle nose and dedicated daughter,
Brenda XXOO :)
Brenda Stansfield
January 3, 2020
January 3, 2020
Hello, Mommy!
Well another year, and Christmas come and gone. I really did have an exceptional Birth Month and Holiday season this year. It was the first year I was able to partake of the Yellowpoint Christmas Spectacular stage production (I treated Holly F. for her Birthday on Dec. 23rd) and it was so much fun we have decided to make it an annual tradition! The old Redfern Homestead is totally decked out in it's "Wintery" themed decor...every corner and every window has snowflakes, icicles, lights...the whole shebang! And I added some pearly accents this year, which adds a bit of something special to it all. I did purchase a few new specialty items, as per my desire, but always on sale, previously loved and at great value that can be repurposed so as to keep the old carbon foot print minimized. I like the idea of a winter theme because that means I can get away with leaving up the decorations longer into January...Ukaranian Christmas isn't until the 11th so I will certainly have to celebrate that! :) I was finally able to use some old card stock that I bought many years ago, along with some older dollar-store mini snow-globe snowmen to create my annual Holiday Card, so all my special people can "Shake it up" this Christmas! I also included in the annual card some of the treasured People Paper Heart-shaped Cremains (and recipe!) for those who might wish to share an experience with you and Dad. Auntie Doris was so very impressed with it. Lorna's Little Library is once again decked out in it's Gingerbread-finery and lights and is as popular as ever. That little library is such a going concern and even the young'uns down the street love it when I decorate for every holiday...espicially Spooky Halloween! It is a lot of work to keep the shelves tidy, "appropriate" and well stocked but so worth it! I really enjoy it and find some great reads for myself too. The difficult part is finding time to read all those "tasty tomes"! Oh, and finding time to do those well-loved puzzles that are always out on Grandma's Teak Table can be tricky too, but luckily when I have guests we all crowd around and place a piece or two!
I am continuing to be thoroughly entertained by CBC Radio and really enjoyed this year's Opera Extravaganza on Dec. 27th as well as the old favorites, Dylan Thomas' A Child's Christmas in Wales and The Gift. Brings back so many family memories. And of course all those Hallmark Christmas Movies that I so enjoy. I was also able to get in lots of Craft Fairs in December too. The Monterey Centre one yielded me Santa and Rudolph Rubber Ducks for a Buck! Such a Deal! And I bought myself some Island made Gin after a tasting at the Moss Street Christmas Craft Fair. I heard on the news there is a new gin being made out Elephant Dung - apparently, the botanicals that they eat don't digest in pachyderm's gut so they isolate them, sterilize them of course and distill a uniquely flavored gin out of the seeds. Yummy! Maybe... I also bought myself some tasty lemony infused oil for drizzling on my salads and salmon.
I have been cutting out the practically daily wine consumption since September and have lost 12lbs without even trying. I am getting in lots of walks and am now starting to get better sleeps too, although I don't really fret if I don't sleep...more time for reading! I have enjoyed many special times with friends over the holidays, Christmas Dinner with the Mitchells, Birthday dinners and events with buddies and New Year's Eve I watched favorite movies over a delicious Tequila Queso Fundido for dipping my veggies (I had a hankering for Cheese Fondue!)...Holly says I am just EATING my liquor now instead of drinking it! :) I don't deny myself anything during a celebration, of course, only now I drink my 1% milk out of the wine glass at night instead of the Cardbordeaux. I think Jason misses coming down to borrow wine to make his pasta sauce, though. Now he has to buy his own Vino!
I am really looking forward to the year 2020. It is the Chinese Calendar's Year of the Rat, which is my year and I will turn 60 in December and THAT will be quite the milestone. I am confident that it will be an exceptional year for me and my people and know that I have you and Dad and Terry looking over me along the way and reminding me what is important in this very special life I have. Thanks for everything you have done to make me the person I am and for continuing to guide me along my path. You are never out of my heart and mind, Mom.
Well, gotta go jump in the bubble bath to start my day off with something fun!
Great bit grateful hug and kisses to you, my wonderful Mom...pass them along to everyone for me!
Your ever-loving baby girl, and pickle-nose, Brenda XXX
Brenda Stansfield
August 20, 2019
August 20, 2019
Happy Birthday Mommy!
Gosh, I miss you, Mom. I miss our talks and your laughter and your unwavering support, love, and friendship. There will never be another one like you and I am grateful that you were "mine!"
Our Didey (affectionately referred to as "Dried" lately) continues to be a wonderful friend and support for me. She picked me up from the ferry on the mainland in June and she treated me to a fabulous lunch at Cactus Club and we had a great time catching up. Then she took me to Surrey to stay with IMom for a few days. I have tried to visit Inez as much as possible to support her as she still misses Peter so very much. The Gibson Four (Di, Bob, Jenny and Cruze) also came over here to stay for an experimental visit to see if I might be a destination place for them to holiday. Cruze just turned 2 in the summer and is such a handsome dog, but quite a handful in that breed. It was really nice to have a bit of one-on-one with Di, though, and we reminisced about you, which always makes me smile.
Laureen also picked me up from the ferry one time and we went out for a lovely walk around Green Timbers Park in Surrey which was so much fun...they stock the pond in the centre with trout every year and we chatted with lots of anglers of all ages. I just love being with her and really look forward to our next visit. She just moved in with her partner, Scott, and he is so good to her and such a nice person. She deserves happiness.
I thought of you in July when New York city had a power outage. I heard on CBC that a Broadway Theatre poured into the street and the cast performed an impromptu musical show for all the people standing around. Amazing! And I heard that CATS, THE MUSICAL, a live-action animation movie is due out in December starring Jennifer Hudson, and Judy Dench among other huge stars. I can't wait to go see it!
Our old MD, Mary Conley is now living out in Brentwood and is an award-winning artist. And she lectures and teaches art classes...who knows...I might take in one of those someday. Good for her!
I was on my daily walk around the hood the other day and saw that they were having beautiful outdoor wedding in the front of the Carlton House. They had a fabulous Swing Band performing, all the tables were set in white tablecloths/chair drapes and huge sunflower table centers. It looked pretty spectacular! Perhaps a couple met while living there and wanted to share their special day. Gotta love romance!
Mike (and Ronella) have also been such great friends to me. Mike helps me with so much around here - he will be there to help keep the Stansfield Family homestead and legacy going for a long time to come. It was Clair's 25th Birthday last week and Ronella and Co. put on a huge family shindig which was so much fun. Mich and family and Sue were there and I had a great visit with the two of them. Mich said she planted one of the People Paper Hearts and she has one little bloom but hopes for more next year. Sweet! Claire observed and recorded on her phone a turtle laying eggs right in the middle of her driveway at PJ's. Her play-by-play was so hilarious I made her a little turtle with 20 eggs (pearls) attached to its wee backside in a bed of tiny rocks for her Birthday. My little speech of all the important events in ones lives that make up a rich and happy existence almost brought Sue to tears and she said it reminded her so much of you and your special ways of doing things. I was so happy she shared that with me and that I am able to channel you and your wise words with others.
I went to the IMAX the other day (keeping up the tradition of your gift of the season's pass for me) and ran into Lori, your hairdresser at The Villa. We had a great time reminiscing about you and Dad and how Tyler so loved you both. And as we were leaving the building, we bumped into Roger, the former maintenance dude at The Villa, who now volunteers at the Royal BC Museum for the tours. It was like old-folks-home week! :)
Your Little Free Library continues to be a going concern and I am currently working on a "back door" to place on the side that I can see. I will paint a tree first so the little people can visit the library too! Michelle is working on painting a mural on the telephone pole outside her house (can't wait to see what it will be!) and there is another painted pole at the Brighton end of the street that looks great. There are now 255 little libraries in the Capital Region-five people were vying to be the 250th but only one achieved the goal first.
So that is all of the news for now. I will celebrate your special day with some of your favorite foods, wine and decadent chocolate dessert. I read that at a Spa Association event in NYC they had Hershey's giving mini chocolate and marshmallow whip hydrating facials...such a waste of good chocolate!
Sending you a Big Birthday hug and lots of love on your special day. And give my love and hugs to all the other party revelers up there...I am sure you will be surrounded by many adoring fans of a wonderful Mom, partner and great friend.
Love you Mom!
Brenda, (still the baby of the family even though I will be 60 next year. OMG!!)
Brenda Stansfield
June 20, 2019
June 20, 2019
Hello Mommy!
It has now been 2 years since you had to go to be with Daddy...and I still think of you every day, knowing you guys and Terry (and now Peter) are watching over me - likely often wondering what the heck I am doing, as I sometimes ponder myself. Mostly stuff that makes me smile in my little world of garden creations and "re-visions" - I do love it so out there! My latest acquisition is a lovely Water Bell Fountain that I have placed in Dad's outdoor waterfall/pond in the corner of the deck. I am affectionately referring to it as a "Ping-Pond" and it is just so peaceful sounding just outside my bedroom window as I drift off to sleep. Hopefully the raccoons won't use it as a kitchen sink!!! I don't usually buy new things as I am totally into the recycling of old stuff (really trying to reduce my carbon footprint!) but I got it on a huge sale at Gardenworks...and I really wanted it! It sounds so lovely with the new wind-chime and the birds...Ah, "The Serenity!"...
I continue to listen to my favorite CBC Radio programs. Choral Concert had a lovely choir on last week - their name was "Room Full of Teeth"! Too funny!
IMom came over for a visit in May so we could do some estate stuff and we went to see the new Alladin movie. We both really enjoyed it. Disney is remaking all the old animated classics into "live-action" movie formats. Dumbo was fabulous - gotta love a Circus! And I am really looking forward to the Lion King when it comes out in July. Who needs to go to Africa when you can watch it all on the big screen?!? Well, maybe Kim does as she left yesterday on her Big Adventure in Kenya and other Safari places over there. We had a nice phone chat before she left. And she sent me a really special card of a photograph of you and Dad at Valentine Farm 13 years ago to remember you 2 years after you ventured forth to your current realm. She figured correctly that I talk to you all the time and likely have a "direct line" to you and she said for me to tell you that she said "Hi!" from her. So - "Hi" from Kim. :)
The little battery operated candle I lit on my mantle last year at this time is, amazingly, still glowing, albeit faintly. I will put in new batteries at my little celebration of you tonight so it will shine bright again, as you continue to do in my memories and heart. Thanks for watching over me, Mom. I feel your presence all around me and my dear friends always try to share their wonderful memories of my family with me, which makes me smile. I am still passing out the little People Paper Hearts, as Jason refers to them, (Sue will take some up to Sointula and Mike and Ronella may take you guys camping on the West Coast!). And am in the midst of sending them off to other friends and family but sometimes creativity takes time...and "Presentation is Everything!" I seem to get distracted so very easily and there are times when I just want to go out for a walk in this beautiful neighbourhood and I find that keeping active helps my ageing bones!
Well, I should get on with my daily adventures. Please give everyone a big Hug for me up there as I miss all of you so very much...and scratch Asta behind the ears for me! And Terry!
Love and Hugs as always...
Your ever loving Daughter and Little Pickle-nose...
Brenda XXX
Brenda Stansfield
May 25, 2019
Hello Mommy!
Happy Mother's Day! (Belated...sorry!)
It has been quite the Month of May. Peter ended up in the hospital only 3 weeks after they arrived back from Mesa, and unfortunately, passed away on May 14th. I have been trying to comfort Inez...because you brought me up to be a kind person, and I thank you for that, Mom.
And because I have been spending almost the past month in Surrey, I am missing all the lovely spring blooms in my wonderful garden. But the early-blooming forsythia was spectacular even after the severe pruning I gave it. I did go home to do some personal business (and mow the lawns and boulevards) and the Wisteria and May Tree were in their prime. And I might even get some figs this year!
Jason will act as administrator for the estate because he is less emotionally involved than I am and I am happy to let him make all the decisions that might be involved. And, unfortunately, Leilani's Dad, Hans, passed away the same day as Peter so we have been consoling each other.
Your favorite show, Law and Order SVU is now the longest running series on TV with 21 seasons so I guess you weren't the only one hooked on it.
The library is so popular still and Kim and I both agree that we didn't know that being a librarian was so much work! John and Kim were both here in April to mark Daddy's 90th Birthday and we did the sprinkling of The Wrinklies (as per your request) up at the Finnerty Gardens at UVic and it was a lovely little ceremony. I made tiny heart shaped seed paper with forget-me-nots and some of the cremains of you both to give to all who couldn't be there. Sue will take you up to Sointula and Dennis and Marj already placed you with a little memorial up at Yellow Point. John took some hearts so you could be with Asta in her final resting place too. Erin wanted 2 so that she could keep one close to her heart.
When Kim and John were here we also celebrated her 65th Birthday and I gave her a special bottle of award winning Seaside Gin (made in Sooke!) with a hint of seaweed and she said it was quite nice. She will be going to Kenya and Tanzania in June with a friend so she is really looking forward to that.
Well, that is all for now, my sweet Mommy. Thanks for all the secret visits with flying wildlife! Much appreciated.
I miss you so much and carry you always in my head and heart.
Love and Hugs, Brenda (your little pickle-nose!)
Colleen Hoppins
February 15, 2019
My sincere condolences on the passing of Lorna. May she, Ron and Terry all rest in perpetual peace.
Brenda Stansfield
December 31, 2018
Christmastime 2018
Hello Mommy!
Well, I have made it through another Holiday Season and, thankfully, it hasn't been as difficult as I thought it might be without you and Dad and Terry around. Well, that is probably because you really are "all around" in the Xmas photos and especially all the wonderful memories of Christmas' Past. As usual, every corner of the house is decorated and lit for the festive season. I watched all my favorite DVDs, played my special seasonal CDs...and I made a very unique Christmas card this year! I painstakingly designed and crafted a little Gingerbread "Outfit" for Lorna's Little Free Library...and it turned out really adorable. It even lights up with coloured lights every night! I took a lovely photo of it and put it on my Xmas card. One might say it was a really "SWEET!" card this year. The dressed-up library is very popular in the neighbourhood and Michael Evans says it is on a virtual computer game called Pokeymon Go! (whatever that is!) so it is a worldwide "destination" now. Who Knew??? Anyway, I made it so that I can put it on/up every year at this time, which is nice because it sure was a lot of work! But well worth all the smiles that it brings when I see people walk by. I am so glad that I had Mike make the library and bench to honour my people. And, in other related news, Kim and John made a little library for their front yard AND I received a Holiday note from Ron and Julie and THEY have put up a Little Free Library on the East Coast, which is just terrific! I wonder if we can get all the Stansfields to create one in their neck of the woods???
Jason and I hosted his Mom, Marylou, over the holidays. It ended up being a much longer visit than originally planned, as the West Coast was hit by an extremely severe wind storm the week before the 25th that took out power to around 700,000 customers, including in Chemainus, where she lives. We were okay so Jason kindly drove up to rescue her from her dark and cold apartment and she stayed with us until he returned her back home on Boxing Day, when the power was restored. It was very interesting. We also hosted his sister, Sarah (formerly known as Cindy) for Christmas dinner. I tried several new recipes for the repast, including Brussels sprouts (yes, I made Brussels sprouts...but they had pancetta and white wine so how could it not taste yummy!?) and the stuffing, also courtesy of the Gibson/Leone clan, was made with focaccia and chanterelles. Both were a huge hit! Lots of leftovers and Jason made a delish Turkey Soup from the carcass. I must admit that I prefer to have turkey stock, like Terry used to make, because it is more versatile but it is always nice when someone else does some of the work!
Diane and Bob came for a really fun visit for my Birthday weekend and they showered me with gifties and love. I received some cozy outdoor and lounge wear...and even the wine was dressed in Ugly Christmas Sweaters, lighted scarves and touques! Too funny! We also did a puzzle, which sure brought back memories of visits with you and Dad at New Years! And the city threw a Lighted Truck Parade for me on my special day too! :) We all bundled up and walked down to the Avenue to take in the sights and lights and sounds...Bob and Di were truly impressed! I even bought myself a new Timex Indiglo watch, just like the last one you gave me because I love it so much. Gotta love the lights! It was a very special Birthday with lots of cards, flowers and events planned by my very wonderful friends. I am so fortunate to have such incredible buddies, neighbours and extended family who care for me.
Other things of note; I attended (and helped plan) my 40th High School Reunion at the end of September which turned out to be a huge success. And as a bonus, I have reconnected with Laureen Tekano, who now lives in North Delta. She has been over to the Redfern Retreat for a couple of long weekends and it is so much fun to have her friendship back...it is like we were never apart! We kinda think that you and her mom got together up there with a master plan to get us re-acquainted. Thanks!! Also, your Red Devils...the Calgary Stampeders won the Grey Cup this year, which Auntie K was thrilled about, and we have Canadian, Maestro Yanik-Segan conducting the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. He is only the third conductor in its history and on his debut he had the whole orchestra come up on stage to take a bow, which was also a first. Amazing! I am looking forward to Saturday Afternoons... Oh, and they put words to Pacobell's Cannon for Christmas. Just saying...
Anyway, Mom, you are always on my mind and in my heart and will continue to be in 2019. I am just so happy that I was brought up in such a fun and loving home and so glad you fell for Dad! So many great memories to comfort me and make me smile. Keep watching over me like I know you do. I love being semi-retired (still helping with Jaci) and now know why you wanted to take early retirement too. And the candle that I placed by your photos on the mantle last June is still shining...it is truly a AAA miracle!
Love always,
Your devoted daughter, and Little Pickle Nose,
Brenda :)
Brenda Stansfield
August 20, 2018
August 20, 2018
Greetings to you, my sweet Mommy, on what would have been your 80th Birthday. You have been on my mind so much lately, as always, but especially this time of year when we celebrate your Birth and Life. A truly amazing and special Mom! And, quite frankly, unforgettable!
Gertie and Steve's daughter, Lili, is heading off to Capilano College this fall to attend the acting program. I know you and Dad would be so excited for her. She has been in several stage productions in Victoria over the past year. A few being at Langham Court and an interesting Pop-Up production on the Galloping Goose Trail. I haven't been in the audience yet but plan to follow her career via the tales from the neighbours. I made a card for her and shared that lovely and inspiring poem that you wrote for me for my graduation 40 years ago:
A Graduation Wish For Our Brenda:
To love every day-
for they all pass too quickly
To love every discussion-
for many ideas are soon forgotten
To love every raindrop-
for they vanish when the sun appears
To love every duty-
it's life has the smallest span; it only lives until it's done
To love these precious things is to embrace life-
and love will be returned.
And I gave her a rubber duck that lights up in water for her new apartment! :)
Today is National Radio Day and I continue to listen to my favorite CBC programs throughout the day, remembering how much we all enjoyed shows over the years. I never feel alone when I listen to my little yellow radio that Terry left me. I attended two memorials in one week a few weeks ago. Mary Williamson passed away and I attended a really special service for her at Mt. St. Mary's Church. And Bob Milne and The Monterey Chorus performed beautifully in honour of their founder. They played a recording of Mary and Norma, which was so lovely, as Norma's voice sounded similar to yours...almost like you were singing along to celebrate the life of a truly unique lady. Holly gave a really nice tribute and Adam was there sharing some of his memories of Mary and Joe when he was younger. I wouldn't be surprised if Mary already has a Choir put together up there and is planning a special Birthday Concert for you! Mavis passed away too and Erin did a lovely job of the flowers for the service at Sands. The Sunshine Clowns (six of them at least) decked out in full clown regalia performed a fun ukulele-accompanied song that was just so "Mavis". If I had known they did private functions I would have had them at your "Wake" here at the old homestead! Adam and Jen were out for a wedding at Whistler and popped over to the island for a quick visit before they had to return for Lorraine's 80th Birthday on August 18th. And Jaci turned 85 on August 16th, so lots of Birthday cards and balloons have been shared recently.
There are 550 wildfires burning in BC at the moment and, with the Air Quality Advisory issued by Environment Canada, we currently have the worst air quality in the world. The smoke is blowing all across the country and into the US too. IMom and Co. are on their way home from Minnesota and it is affecting them, although California is having one of their worst fire seasons on record so it could be from that area too. Extreme weather from climate change continues to wreak havoc around the world and my heart goes out to those severely affected by it. This morning I awoke to smokey overcast skies and a bright orange ball of a sun. We have the off shore winds that helps to keep the smokey smell minimal but there are about 50 fires on the Island and we are on Extreme Fire alert in our area. I think Kim and John's air quality is affected by nearby fires in the interior. I haven't heard what it is like for Kerry. I hope to host Di and Bob over the next few weeks but they just had a long visit from her bro, Paul, and the coffers might be a bit low for a visit at this time. There is a exhibit at UVic called the Art of The Book that I think Bob would enjoy. Auntie K had intended to visit sometime too but I haven't heard from her as to when. Holly Fred. and I enjoy chats and walks as often as possible and Mike and Ronella include me in family get-togethers and always seem to have my back, which is so very comforting. And Tony next door has been wonderfully supportive and entertaining!
I continue to enjoy my home and especially the garden, the Library is still very popular...I almost had to send out a call to the pals..."Lorna's Little Library Lacks Literature!" but I was able to get some from Teale and now I can stock up those in the hood when needed. I do love reading and recall how much you enjoyed it too. I have been to free music concerts in the park and Centennial Square, I had tea at Government House with Dyane and enjoyed a fabulous Lavender Lemonade and pleasant stroll through the gardens there that you and Dad used to tend, I have seen Bindon and Linda at The Moss Street Paint-in and Bowker Creek Brush-up and helped with the take down of Linda's creative jewelry display and booth. She is trying to enlarge your wedding band for me a but so I can wear it, which would be just so amazing. And I generally relish in my wonderfully full yet simple life and good fortune to have all my wonderful friends and neighbours...my family, as it were. It is so nice to reminisce about you and Dad and Terry too. We were so lucky to have had such a wonderful, loving and fun family ...cherished memories for sure!
So, to honour you, Mommy, on your Birthday, I will create a gourmet dinner tonight wearing your Butterfly Dress and have a mini chocolate lava cake for dessert as a treat. Perhaps it will help me not miss you so...
Please pass on hugs to everyone for me and thanks for watching over my world.
Love you so very much,
Your Devoted Daughter, Brenda :)
Brenda Stansfield
June 19, 2018
"Hello Mommy!" as the little dancing frog said.
I can't believe it has been a year already since you passed on into the next realm...exit, stage left, as it were. It really doesn't seem like it has been that long since you've been gone but I guess that is because I still feel your presence around me all the time. It is so comforting for me knowing that you and Dad and Terry are watching over me...like that little scare I had during the Teeny Tiny Garden Tour with Holly a couple of weeks ago. Thanks! I think of you all the time and, in fact, I am composing this on the International Day of the Martini! Guess who will celebrate with you in mind tonight???
So many things have happened since my last wee note to you: Vanilla is now worth more than Silver! Can you believe it? Remember how excited you and Dad were to invest in that "precious metal", thinking that if Gold went up, so would Silver. Well, just like Molycor, you received the Standard Stansfield Rate of Return. Nada! :) I found a six leaf clover a while ago...I don't think I have ever found one with that many leaves before. It is being "pressed for posterity" in your dictionary...that I gave away to Value Village and had to go out and find again when you said you wanted it. I can't believe I was lucky enough to find it before someone else bought it...and I had to PAY to get it back! Too funny! I do miss finding four leaf clovers and the coins on the sidewalk like I used to. Most people just use bank or credit cards now and shy away from carrying cash. Darn! Oliver was in the Oak Bay Tea Party Parade with Tony on the Sea Rescue Float, which reminded me of Terry and I with the Marching Band in the parade many years ago. Borgy Borgensen was inducted into the Banjo Hall of Fame. Remember when he used to entertain at The Villa? He played the Charelston and I danced for "the rezzies" in my flapper costume during the Halloween Party. I can't believe I did that! Ham must really run in this little family. Prince Harry married Meghan Markle in a lovely Royal Wedding Ceremony that I watched wearing your "jewels" and Dad's famous Tiara and Grandma's diamond ring, just to fit in with the pageantry of it all. They look so happily in love. Apparently, Harry picked some sweet Forget-Me-Nots from his grandmother's (The Queen!) garden for the bouquet. It really reminded me of you and especially your lovely wedding band/friendship ring that you and Dad found in that Antique Shop. I plan to have it stretched a bit so it will fit over my chunky knuckle. I do wear the baguette ring, though. I was conceived while you were wearing it so it brings me closer to you when I look at it on my finger.
Your little library is as popular as ever. I check it often to ensure that there isn't anything "unsuitable" left for people to find. Recently, I found a very old copy of Rudyard Kipling's "Just So Stories"...with drawings by the author! I remember we had the old LP of some of the stories narrated by Danny Kaye that we used to play as children. Good Times!
The garden here at Redfern is so beautiful this year. The blooms of the Rhodos were stunning-especially the Orange/Pink one, that never looks as good as the White/Purple one. The Dogwood has come back, albeit in smaller form and it had many sweet little blossoms. Hopefully someday it will grow as tall as the second story for those up above to enjoy like you guys used to. The wisteria was amazingly beautiful and so fragrant and the May Tree was lovely, as are your pink roses out front. And "Jack" the clematis finally has a bloom that greeted me when I returned home from a trip to see Imom and Peter this past weekend. I was able to get a fabulous visit in with Diane and Bob and family too while I was there and meet their new dog, Cruze. They sent me home with puzzles galore, which I hope to begin assembling soon. Gotta Love the Puzzles! Diane said she misses you "bunches" and thinks of you and Uncley Ron often.
So, that is all the goings on around here of late. The estate stuff is finally done(ish), which is quite a relief. Kim gave some of her inheritance to the SPCA in honour of Asta, who passed away this year and to the village in Ghana, where she sponsors a child named Blessing. Nice! I will be contributing to that Voice Scholarship with the Conservatory of Music as per your wishes. Thanks so much to you both for your kind generosity. So very appreciated by all.
Missing you always but with fond and happy memories of a wonderful life blessed with having you as my amazing Mom.
Love, Hugs, Smooches, and all that Jazz!
Brenda XXX
Brenda Stansfield
May 13, 2018
May 13, 2018
Happy Mother's Day, my Sweet Mommy!
Rather a thoughtful day today for me considering it is my first Mother's Day without your smiling, joyful face greeting me with that all encompassing loving hug...I really miss those Hugs! The other set of folks are here for the weekend so I am busy keeping them happy but you sneak in to my thoughts and make me smile with all the memories over the years. I have even pulled out some photos of Daughter and Mother and Kim emailed saying she was thinking of you today too. And thanks to both you and Dad for looking after Asta and keeping her spry up there!
Well, off to the Casino with IMom now!
Thanks for being such a wonderful Mom and giving me all of the love that you showered on me...I am such a lucky girl!
Cheers on Your Day, Momma
Love and Hugs! Brenda, your little "Pickle-Nose"
Brenda Stansfield
December 25, 2017
Christmas Day, 2017
Hello Mommy and Merry Christmas to you and Daddy and Terry! I can hear your beautiful voice in my head and heart singing all those cherished carols...a true angel heard on high!
As this is my very first Christmas without all of you, my wonderful family, I think I am trying to fend off the "blues" with bright twinkle lights and sparkly-glittery-shimmery snowflake themed decor...and I do believe it is working! I also have your collection of tiny Santas on display and I plan to add one special one every year just like you did over the many years. And I have tons of past photos of Stansfield Family Christmases gone by (the annual Christmas Card was a montage of those old pics this year!)...and a snow globe/polar bear/winter wonderland scene all alight on the side buffet. It is very pretty and matches the scene outside (well, except for the bears!) because it snowed last night for Christmas Eve! It is so pretty and peaceful. I know you are sharing it with me because you are always in my heart and visit me often in my dreams (thanks for showing up and lightening up the mood for me; I love your visits and awaken with a smile). And I feel you in my head guiding me along in my new life journey on my own without you and Dad. But I don't feel all alone because I have so many wonderful friends and neighbours who continue to support me as I need it. And Jason ventures down often to check on me and share some libations, which is nice.
I have been busy with social events lately like the Lighted Truck Parade (spectacular this year!), Musical Theatre productions, visiting the XMAS trees at the Mall and the Gingerbreads (Selena entered a spectacular Beaver in Red Serge for the Canada 150 theme...Dad would have loved it because he is such a proud Canadian!),delicious dinners/Brunches and...well, decorating all over the house inside and out! There are tons of glittery and glowing hanging balls...cause nothing says Christmas like Disco Balls, I always say! :)
The "Wake" in October here at Redfern for you and Dad was a huge success and everyone had a lovely time reminiscing about those Crazy Stansfields. The Girls (and John and Asta!) and Gibsons were extremely helpful and it wouldn't have been as wonderful without their valuable assistance. You are dearly missed by all, my amazing parents. At my request to honour your legacy, I asked Mike Mitchell to design and build a Little Free Library out front for you and a lovely bench on the other side of the rhodo to honour Daddy. Remember he used to venture from bench to bench in Oak Bay and you would send me out to find him if he was gone too long? Now there is a well used bench out front and the Library is very popular too! Remember the last book..."Stealing Faces"? Somebody FINALLY took it...and the little free coffee coupon inside that The Currie's donated. So sweet. Only the special books get a coffee coupon. And there will be little bulbs popping up in the spring under Dad's memorial bench from Michelle and Adrian and Olivia and Henry. But everything is covered in a blanket of beautiful snow at the moment and it is just lovely, Mom. Hey, even your little library has twinkle lights on the roof line! :)
Anyway, as you are aware because you and Daddy and Ubu are always watching over me, I am doing okay...mostly. I have my moments where my emotions get the better of my eye make-up but other than that, life is going along pretty well for me here at Redfern. And now I should go baste Tom Turkey...I am getting pretty good at the Turkey thing, although I doubt I will ever aspire to be as great as you or Terry. Tough acts to follow! Jason and Andy and Dyane will join me for the Christmas Feast and we will likely toast to you all because we miss you!
Thanks for always being there for me. Rick Henderson had hip surgery and is using your cane to assist him in his healing. And I am glad that Margaret Pinkney has joined her husband and you guys, as she was so very fond of you both too. Give her my love!
Love and hugs to you, my dear sweet Mommy.
Your little Pickle Nose, Brenda :) XXX
Brenda Stansfield
December 2, 2017
December 1, 2017
Hi Mom...I am just about to head off to bed but I couldn't go without writing to you...
Well, today was the very first Birthday in my 57 years that I have ever spent without you and I thought about you all day. I miss you so much Mom, but, as you already know I talk to you all the time so I still feel you in my heart, where you will always remain to comfort me during the difficult and sad times in my life and celebrate with me all the good and happy times to come. I have been reading through your poems and musings that you have written throughout the years and I am so glad you saved them for me to revisit; they are a cherished gift from you to me. A most special one is dated December 1, 1993 and reads...
"...and so, there you were - a little sweet babe - under the Christmas Tree - with pretty, pink cheeks!! Whenever you feel your December Birthday cheated you just remember - it was sure the nicest Christmas present your Mommy ever received! XX Dear Brenda - Happy Birthday!"
That is all for tonight. Just know how much I miss you and Dad and Terry on my Birthday. You all made my Birthdays Past so special for me and I will hold the memories of those happy times close in my heart. I am so lucky to have had such an amazing family and continue to be blessed with wonderful, loving and supportive friends and extended family to help me celebrate, including Diane and Bob, Holly M, Holly and James, Dyane and Andy, Disneyland Sue, Shauna, Jason, Terry's Dale and my very special IMom, who never lets me forget how much she loves me...just like you always did.
Well...now I can start to decorate for Christmas now that my Birthday is over as per Your Rules! Holiday Lights here I come!
Love you, Mommy. Thanks for everything.
Brenda, your little baby girl!
Brenda Stansfield
August 20, 2017
Happy Birthday Mommy!
I can't believe it has been two months now
since you have been re-united with Dad and Terry and all of the other
special peeps from our lives that passed before you. I am pretty sure there
will be lots of celebration in your honour...try not to let the fireworks
get out of hand! I miss you so much Mom. I feel like my heart is really
physically aching sometimes...but it could just be gas...anyway, it sure
feels real. I am sure I will be okay. I just keep busy and remember all the
great times we had in our lives together.
I was supposed to be
spending your Birthday with Auntie K and her family (gals only) on a house
boat trip on the Shushwap but a little homestead emergency of the "pest"
variety took precedence and I had to stay home to deal with that. These old
houses, don't you know. I know they will be toasting to your memory because
Katherine never forgot the Birthday of her dear friend, Lorna. I will have
to reschedule some time to see them, and Kim and John too, as I was going to
spend some time with them after the Water Adventure. Anyway, I think I have
things under control here...for now, as I think I finally found the source
of entry, sprayed with bug sleepy juice and sealed the interior where I
believe the flying/crawling hoards were entering the house. I still kinda
feel like there are flying bugs hiding and looking at me through the
crevices...hopefully the spiders will get them before they get me :)!
Spiders are our friends...well, except the huge ones in the house and when
you walk face first into a web outside!
Anyway, there is lots to do
around here and the "Wake" for you and Dad is in the works. I am pretty
sure that it will be the biggest "Celebration" that 1024 Redfern has ever
seen. I hope we will do the memory of you and Dad proud. I promise to dust
and clean the floors before everyone arrives...just saying. No guarantees
that the goddangngreencarpet will be gone by then, though.
Sorry.
Last weekend I went up to see Kerry for a nice little visit
(except for the 14+ hour trip home!) and Jaci McManus kindly let me stay
with her so that I could catch the early ferry out of Comox the next day.
IMom, Jaci and Marylou have all been so kind to me lately. I guess once a
Mom, always a Mom. And Friedy Di has been my Rockin' Rock through all of my
trials lately. I do love her so. She is amazing and misses you so much too
but we are so glad you no longer are stuck in the confines of a body that
betrayed your true nature and put limits on your physical abilities and
enjoyments of your life. We prefer to remember you in your glory days! You
funny little gal!
Please hug my people in your realm for me and I
will do the same here for you. My tears are starting to cloud my vision
now, so I should sign off. Remembering you and all the wonderful Birthdays
past that we celebrated in your honour, Mom.
Love you always and
forever,
Brenda XXX OOO
Brenda Stansfield
July 10, 2017
Hello Mommy!
Or, as you used to "sing" when you opened the door as you came home from work years ago..."Hell-O-OOO"! (I can still hear your sweet voice in my head...and I thought I heard you sing it in the garden last week....). I believe it was on Canada Day and, because our amazing country was celebrating it's 150th Birthday, I had flags and red maple leafs and red and white annuals and decor everywhere in the house and in the garden. You and Dad were both so proud to be Canadian and I certainly share that sentiment. I feel so lucky to live here!
I can't believe it has been three weeks since you left us to be with Dad again. I miss you so much, Mom, but I feel you around me all the time. The garden is always full of butterflies and I found a black and white polka dot feather the other day (too cute, just like you!). Your pink rose bush is gorgeous and in full bloom and there is still one forget-me-not flowering at its base...I sure wish your ring fit me! (you always had such beautiful hands and nails...me, not so much!) And when I really want to feel you around me I just close my eyes and imagine you are hugging me like you used to...never wanting to let go. You sure were the best hugger ever! And your beautiful smile that lit up your whole face is thankfully embedded forever in my memory in my wee brain. I am sure these are some of the things that others will remember about you too.
I have also been spending time with my dear friends and plan to see the girls in August, and will have an adventure on a houseboat with Auntie K and family then too, which will be so very nice. I have been recruited for "Bunny Sitting" (Soda Pop!) for Liz' grandsons...apparently, bok choy is a favorite - who knew? Sorry I didn't let you get a bunny all those years ago...I kinda feel guilty now!
Anyway, just wanted to say hi and put down some of my thoughts. I received a lovely card from Holly F that said..."In the loss of your Mom...If someone had asked what the best part of her life was, I think she would have said...It was being your Mom." I cry every time I read it, and then I smile, as I truly believe those words. You are certainly the Best Mom Ever!
Love you, Mom. Take care of Da Boys!
Brenda XXXXX
PS. Thanks for all the little notes you have left me, and the tiny Mayan Worry Person...that little "nurse" is really helping me sleep at night!
Claudia Cole
July 5, 2017
To the family:
I was privileged to meet Ron (my half-cousin because our mothers were half- siblings) and Lorna only once, for a few minutes, and was immediately struck by the exuberance and humour with which they were living life. What a wonderful pair they made! Few are so very lucky. I'm sure their positive attitude allowed them to face and overcome the challenges that come to us all. I hope knowing they lived so well will make your grieving easier.
Thomas Santalab
June 29, 2017
Brenda, we are so sad to hear the news. I know Lorna had more than her share of sadness, though, and it must have been so hard for her these last few years. She was so blessed to have you, Brenda! How appropriate that Summertime was playing: I think she sang that for us, at one point, at the old homestead. Lorna, take care of our buddy, Terry, OK? Love Wynn, Tom and Nik
Dale Bonke
June 27, 2017
Dear Brenda as mentioned in my email I was so sad to hear about your Mom's passing and yet not surprise. I am also so glad she gifted you with being a great Mom her whole life and in helping you become a great daughter (and person) who was able to care for her in her later years. Indeed I can so see her dancing with Ron and Terry. I send you lots of love during this healing time...Dale
Anneke Wijkstra
June 26, 2017
Dear Lorna,
I remember you so well from the day that you arrived at Beacon Hill Villa. Thank god your lovely husband came soon after. You are together for many years. Working at the Villa and get to know people like you/guys, make my day. Seeing the lovely smiles and making the jokes kept me positive trough the days. Both you're so being active, being a part off the things what we organized, for example the parties and being dressed up for every occasion, with some help from your lovely daughter Brenda who became also a big part off the Villa family.
Dear Lorna, I will miss you but I'm happy to that you fond peace and that you're with your Ron now.
Say hello from me to him, OK....
Thanks for the time that we met in our lives,
Anneke Wijkstra
Recreation Assistant at Beacon Hill Villa.
June 24, 2017
Lorna is singing and dancing in heaven with Ron and Terry who welcomed her with open arms. What a wonderful lady! We feel honoured to have known her over the years. Her smile was contagious as was the sparkle in her eyes.
We're here for you, Brenda! We'll help you keep all of their memories alive. HUGS from Holly & James
Brenda Stansfield
June 24, 2017
"Hello Mommy"!
I shall so miss seeing your sweet smile every day; it would brighten my day and prove to me that spending all that time caring for you in your last years was where I was meant to be. I feel truly blessed to have had such a wonderful Mom (the best one in the whole world, in my view!) and to have been raised in such a happy home with you and Daddy (and Terry too!). Your sense of fun and wonder and kindness, your amazing hugs that would wrap me in comfort and your undying love for me will be with me forever.
Your beautiful voice will always be singing in my head as well. I was so glad that I was able to hold you in my arms as you passed on and into Dad's waiting embrace. Diane opened the window to let your soul soar and moments later 'your song', "Summertime" was playing on the CD player, letting us know that you were again with Dad. I am so relieved you had such a peaceful passing, and I am comforted in knowing that you can now sing and dance again and are without the burdens of your stupid-head disease that stole so much from you over the years. I am also very grateful for the emotional support of Diane Gibson, Kim, Kerry and Jason and my dear friends and neighbours who have helped me through these difficult times. It was so helpful to me to have Erin help with your loving care over the years as well as all of those who loved you and cared for you here at Redfern and at The Villa. I am very lucky, I know, and confident that, while I will have my sad moments in losing my family, I also have such great memories and photos to remind me of the fabulous and fun life we had together. Don't, worry, I will be fine!
The day you left, there was one alstromeria blooming in the back garden, your pink rose in the front burst into flower and two butterflies were frolicking together for what seemed like ages...thanks for sending me those sweet signs and reminding me of my wonderful Mom, who I will miss dearly, but cherish all the memories...as long as I can remember them!
Love you, Momma! Now go make sure Dad and Terry are staying out of trouble up there!
Your devoted baby girl,
Pickle nose...uh Brenda :)
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