This year has been one of great loss for us and we fear this yearly update may not be filled with much gladness or good tidings. As Dave has recently joked, 2024 has been like a perpetual flaming bag of dog poop on the front porch of our lives. The crap just keeps showing up...
So where do we begin?
Well, January kicked off with the swift loss of Jen’s mom. A fall in September set off a domino effect on her health. The lumbar fracture she sustained led to prolonged periods in bed, decreased appetite and generalized weakness. She then struggled with an uncontrolled heart rhythm and a rapid progression of Alzheimer’s. Finally, a bout of Influenza proved too much for her weakened body to fight. We were grateful for the chance to have a beautiful afternoon together the day before her death where the five of us visited with her and even played a simple game together.
As Polar bears were her favourite animal and she loved the cold, a visit to the Calgary zoo on Jen’s birthday helped to bring a sliver of peace to the situation as we saw the polar bears lolling happily in the snow.
Earlier this week, the marvels of modern technology allowed me to participate in my Dad's funeral. It was difficult not being there in person, but it allowed me to honour a great man and say my goodbyes.
As the camera panned the church, it was amazing to see the many people there to remember and celebrate my Dad—family, neighbours, friends, church folk, and my Dad's workmates. It was clearly apparent that Dad was well-loved and had a positive impact on many people throughout his life. I'm also thankful for the love, kindness, and support that so many have shown my family, especially my Mum.
I miss my Dad. I miss talking to him and hearing his witty banter.
Below is the audio of my eulogy and the slideshow shown at the funeral.
Upon meeting my Dad, it wouldn't take long for you to notice his big personality. “Loud meets meekness” is how I would describe it. Though my Dad was often jovial and playful, he had this humble warmth and kindness about him that would leave most feeling uplifted and welcomed. Even when he struggled, he sought to uplift those around him – be it with a joke, a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on.
As it is being estimated that one-quarter of humanity is currently being affected by armed conflict, my prayer for this holiday season echoes the final verse of the Christmas hymn O Holy Night.
“Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His Gospel is Peace
Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother
Another year has passed, and so I thought I'd take some time (with Jen's help) to give a brief update on what is happening in the Winter family.
Our family trip to Australia in March was the year's biggest highlight. We enjoyed spending lots of time with my family and several fun outings. We finally visited Jenolan Caves after several failed attempts on previous trips – though I think the wild kangaroos we saw on the drive may have elicited a stronger reaction from the girls than the incredible caves and formations did.
We also had our usual visit to the beach, where the girls learned that sledding does exist in Australia. This was demonstrated to us by our sweet nephew Willy, who rode a boogie board while being pulled by one of his favourite cousins along the sandy beach. Unfortunately, our day trip to Katoomba was very foggy, but the girls were happy to fill in as the area's infamous “three sisters.”
Besides that, we spent ample time with family and friends and celebrated my parent's 50th wedding anniversary. Oh, I also got to take in some rugby league and soccer games. Yay, Sports!
