July 2015 Alberta Trip

Last week I traveled to Alberta. It was a mixture of business, adventure and a solemn goodbye to a lovely and dear family member.

I had an amazing time visiting with some family and friends.

I visited with my mom in the extended care at Fort McMurray hospital. She didn’t recognize me at first, which didn’t bother me because I have enough memory for the both of us.  After the second visit she did recognize me and gave me a sweet kiss.

I also got to hang out with my brother Rossi.  He is doing better and has moved into his own place. Thank you, Wood Buffalo Municipality, in particular, Angela, who went over and beyond to ensure Rossi was settled into his place.  With the help of professional support I hope he will continue to improve and regain the use of his right arm.  Try doing things with just one arm, it is really difficult. 

An impromptu road trip with my sister, her husband, and my cousin, on the winter road to Fort Chipewyan Alberta is one I won't forget anytime soon. OMG the winter road in the summer is an adventure to say the least!!! The road was sandy, hilly and bumpy as all hell.  The bumps and dips in the road, I was told, are from the all terrain vehicles that are on the road throughout the summer.

Lorraine Albert

When we reached the secondary road to the cabin there were many felled trees on the road but fortunately for us, my sister’s husband, was prepared and had his power-saw with him.

In the end, the view was worth the drive... 

Annually there is a pilgrimage to Lac St. Anne, Alberta.  The pilgrimage has a long tradition where many first Nations peoples from the north venture each summer in mid July to pray and meet with friends from other communities they have not seen all year. My mom would attend each year until she was too old to travel.

Elders from Fort Chipewyan!

This year, I was fortunate enough to meet some of the elders before they headed south. Arrangements are made by the two first Nation bands from my community to transport elders from the community to Lac Saint Anne. The elders are well taken care of while on the pilgrimage. They are set up in trailers and their meals are prepared for them. Volunteers attend to their needs ensuring they have water, tea, or coffee throughout the day.  

Black Joe never ages!

Super Granny!

Then I traveled back to Edmonton to attend the funeral services and reception for my sister-in-law Dawn.  It was so sad. She and my brother had been together for almost 34 years.  They were high school sweethearts.  I will miss Dawn’s good nature and sweet smile. 

Although, it was nice to see some family members and to catch up, too bad it had to be under difficult circumstances.  

And, I finally got to spend the night at my wonderful niece’s house,  before she sells it. lol  I slept in the "Paris room", ooh la la!