Dear sis,

Yesterday, when I was out on my walk, I noticed several elderly people, shovelling their driveways.  Not easy.   Vancouver Island never gets this amount of snow.  When I got home I said to Jenna, “Go out with two shovels and a friend and go see if there is anyone out there that needs help with their driveways.”  She was excited to help and because I told her she “may” make a few bucks.   She went out and she made $80 in 3 hours 🙂

Today, when I was out on my afternoon walk,  I noticed this elderly lady, at the neighbourhood mailbox,  trying to place her key in the lock.  As I walked past I kept watching her.  I noticed she was having trouble.    When I wandered over to help her, we both realized she was trying to open the wrong mailbox.    As I reached in for a pile of mail, she said she hasn’t been able to make it down here for a week.

I asked her if she was OK to walk back to her house on her own.  Or if I could assist.  She asked if I could just help her across the “icy part” part, till she was on the actual road.    As I took the mail back from her, she put her arm in mine and we walked up the road and around the corner.

Lorraine is going to be 90 this year.  She lives on her own.   When I told her I am going to be 51 this month, I said, “That must sound so young to you.”  “Yes,” she said,”Oh my, you are just a baby.  You have many years of fun ahead.” “Good,” I said, “Because I like to have fun.”  I also told her that meeting her just made my Valentines Day :).  I loved meeting this joyful lady in the red coat.

As we were walking I didn’t know who was keeping up with who.  She was a remarkable lady, full of speed and determination.  But the one thing I noticed, was how much she laughed.

When I asked if she had enough food in her house (as she mentioned she hadn’t been out driving in a couple of weeks) she said, “I grew up on a ranch.  The closest store was 20 miles away.    I know how to pack a house.  I have so much food, you wouldn’t believe it.” (note to self – if there is an apocalypse – head to Lorraine’s)

As I walked her up to the front door, we were still laughing.  I can’t even recall what was being said, but we were KILLING ourselves laughing.    I am sure she was thinking, “Where the hell did this girl come from ?” lol but that is what I do.  I talk to people.  It fills me up.

As we were  saying our goodbyes, I pointed to the beautiful bench that sits on her porch.

“Lorraine, I am going to come back one day this Spring and we are going to sit on that bench, have tea and talk.”   She said to me, “Oh that would be wonderful !!  Just make sure you knock really loud because I am deaf in one ear.” I responded, “Lorraine, I will break down that door and come get you if I have to.”

Who knew that by simply paying attention to my surroundings, I would meet such an incredible lady.

I love you sis,

Kathy xo

ps.  Karen, I was just texting your kids, we are all wishing each other a Happy Valentines Day.  Carter just mentioned he is going to call you tonight after his hockey practice.  I know you will love to hear his voice.     Happy Valentines Day sis.  I hope you got my message today.

ppss.  Karen,   I just checked my e-mail.  So happy as Safiya, the floor manager at the hospital has just confirmed that a private room has become available on the North end of the 5th floor.  They will be moving you tomorrow.   I am so happy because you will be monitored more closely.    Your new room number will be 5117-01.   Love you sis xo