Saturday, December 13, 2014
Thoughts...
Ruth's greatest legacy and proudest moments came from her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She cherished each and every moment and accomplishment they shared with her, and she looked forward to the time spent with the little ones when they blessed her with their visits. She proudly displayed their portraits on her living room wall and was always eager to share them with her guests.
Ruth loved learning about her own as well as Alex's family histories It seemed as though it was her mission to be the family historian and she wanted to do it right. She spent countless hours searching, compiling, editing and writing the family history books she was so pleased to share with everyone. She even travelled to Poland to search out facts and information on the Ference family line and Scotland to explore the Caldwell clans history.
Ruth loved to travel, but it wasn't always seriousness. On one particular trip to Disney World while twirling around inside a teacup she laughingly exclaimed, "Is it okay to have this much fun being silly?". And at Universal Studios she nearly left her teeth implanted on the foam bar on the ET ride when she got so scared riding that bike!
Her and Alex's trip to Australia and New Zealand was often spoken of by Ruth. For the past 2 months her brother Charlie and his wife Myrtle have been travelling there and sending emails with the details of their trip. Ruth enjoyed hearing the details and fondly recalled many of her and Alex's own adventures in many of the same places. As she listened to their stories it seemed as though she was once again experiencing those fond memories and it made her happy.
Anybody who ever sat down at Ruth's table can attest to her marvellous cooking skills.
Not only was she a wonderful cook, she always made everyone feel welcome at the table even if they were unexpected company. Whether they were friends or family just passing through or the UFA fuel man who happened to be there to fill up the tanks near mealtime. The last few years she welcomed the daily visits from the "meals on wheels" drivers as it gave her an opportunity to interact with others who like her, enjoyed people.
Ruth was a woman with an unwavering Faith in God which would not falter no matter what cross she was given to bear, and there were many. She drew strength from her Lord and was a faithful and supportive parishioner in all the communities in which she lived throughout her life.
Family was important to Ruth and she was the matriarch of her family. She tried to keep the family gatherings going no matter how big or spread out the family became. Over the years this became harder and harder and the gatherings became less frequent. But when there was one, she would make every effort to be there and make sure everyone in her family knew about it and try to attend as well..
Over the years Ruth taught me many things. How to make a meal out of nothing, how to grow a garden, how to sew, how to juggle kids, farming and community, how to grow in faith, how to be fair even when you might not think it is, how to keep learning, how to appreciate good health, how important family is, how precious life is and to embrace it no matter what. She was my "other mother" and I miss her already.
