de Burger-Fex

I know this will surprise many, but when we got married in December 1963, the theme of our wedding was – are you ready? — the wedding! We, Alex and I, were the stars of the show. Yes, it’s true, that was our only theme.

As if I needed more proof that old age has me in its clutches, now I have to use a cane. It has already invaded my life. But no ordinary metal cane will do for this old gal.

Who were these “angels” bringing toys, turkey, ham, oranges and fruitcake to our family? It was only our second Christmas in Canada and money was scarce. We older children knew that and realized that Christmas presents would be few.

As I look out my window today, what do I see? Barren branches on the trees, rotten leaves flying around, everyone shivering — altogether it’s not pleasant at all! We’ve already had snow, on Halloween, if you believe.

Thinking back on my column “ When I’m an old woman ”, I realized that I had forgotten a few things. Now at my age, it’s certainly not unusual for me to forget — I’m actually quite good at it.

Wait a minute — when? I’m there now! Being over 70 is the verification of that. So, I’m old and I don’t care. Recently, I came across a bible for old women appropriately entitled “When I’m an Old Woman, I Shall Wear Purple,” edited by Sandra Martz.

Author Thomas Wolfe wrote that, “You can’t go home again.” Well, Creightonites certainly proved him wrong in an enormous way! The 25th Creighton Shines Again reunion was a phenomenal success.

“O Canada, our home and native land ...” Canada, this beautiful diverse country, is not the land of my birth, but I could not love it more if it was so. I am proud to call myself a Canadian citizen.

What are you reading? I read everything, whether it’s newspapers, poetry, letters – it doesn’t matter what it is. Books have always been my escape, my relaxation, my pastime, my solace. Books can be found everywhere in my home.

Have you given any thought to donating your organs or your tissues after your death? It’s certainly not a pleasant subject to think about, but that time will come for all of us. It’s inescapable.