My life, began at an early age in the quiet Northern part of Alberta. I learned to appreciate nature and wildlife very early and later when I moved to BC and especially Vancouver Island, it was like ‘coming home’. My life was full of hard work and long hours as my husband and myself owned and operated Hotels. It was a demanding life but lots of laughs, fun and sometimes a little ‘trying’ as a constant was dealing with ‘pleasing’ Tourists.  After 15 years we left that Industry and moved on to Own a franchise of 7 Restaurants. My job was to write the  ‘Operating Manuals’ for each Service Job and to set up and monitor the staff for the Accounting of each Restaurant. That was pretty demanding but through all this, I love the controls and watching it all work as planned. 

5 years later we moved to Vancouver and I became a Computer Systems Analyst through Capilano College. I also have a certificate as a Computer Technician. Because of my Hospitality background, I worked Programming, Training and Installing POS Systems in Hotels and Restaurants for 7 years. 

I have had Essential Tremor since I was 12 and at this time the Tremor was making work difficult. It was time for a break! We bought a property on Vancouver Island. This was just what I needed and  lived quietly with my dogs just enjoying the peace. 

I became a widow 12 years ago was very lonely until I med many wonderful people through Volunteer Groups. I became a facilitator for the Prostrate Cancer group and still have those friends. Art became part of my life as my friend had the talent and was an wonderful Artist.  Then a new friend introduced me to her craft which was making cards. 

 I got the bug .. I saw so many wonderful paintings and thought ‘why not!’ Well as it turned out, I could not do this Art because of my Tremor. I couldn’t control the paints or the brushes – then I saw ‘Multi-Media’. I knew I could try that as it was Funky and you really couldn’t make a mistake. That’s what art is, right? So I jumped in and had a fun time but there was so much to learn!! 

 So I learn new things every day about seeing things through a different ‘lens’ as I now see color and beauty differently. My life has slowed and now I have time to appreciate our beautiful world. I work with people with Alzheimers and Dementia and try to offer support and guidance. My information comes mainly from the many Webinars and Zoom calls supported by the Alzheimers Society and other support groups. 

I have been involved with BWP since I had my DPS Deep Brain Stimulation surgery about 2 years ago. I was introduced to all the amazing Lessons and courses offered and I was just excited and thrilled when I became part of the Exercise Courses. It is a daily part of my life now. 

 Art, creating and helping other takes me DAILY away from depression and sadness in Purpose, Joy and Happiness 

And so here’s me @ 76, diving into this art thing, exercising, helping others when I can and now I am Learning how to play Chess !! 

Life is full and has no end ...