Ann and I met in 1991, but we knew about each other since Mary and I met in Thailand in November 1989.

One of the first days of my first visit to Canada, Ann took me on a day trip and we found numerous shared interests, the love of reading a very important one.

Ann showed me around Heritage Park and it was so special to hear all her stories about many of the displays, that she remembered from her childhood. She made pioneer life actually come to life for me, city dweller Monique from the small Netherlands.

And she made me conscious of the beauty of the prairie. It was from her that for the first time I heard about the ‘Big Skies’ and I have loved them ever since.

I saw her deep connection to her family and to the land when at a wedding (in Coronation?). She was so radiant and belonging, surrounded by so many people she loved, in the heart of the prairie. It really touched me and I still carry the memory with me, almost 30 years later.

Every time I was in Calgary I saw Ann. The last time I really spoke to her was through video chat when Mary was visiting her. She told me she cherished the friendship Mary and I have for more than 30 years now.

I am thankful for our meetings and my memories.

All my best wishes to Mary and all her dear ones