Along with my reflections please accept my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your mother Myrnie. In my life, a very precious thread has been broken as I know it has for you. I had hoped to make the trip to be with you on Saturday but wisdom has prevailed given the distance, driving alone and the heat that I no longer tolerate as I once did. On my behalf, Jeanie will carry my love and concern for each of you..
Reflections:
How many people can joyously say that they have been steadfast friends for 92 years? I expect, not many. But, that describes Myrnie Sands and Madge Smith, born 2 days apart in the little village of Westlock with its dirt roads and wooden sidewalks.
Jean Buchanan moved to Westlock a little later and completed the triumvirate.
As children, Myrnie and I shared many birthday parties that were always topped off with Myrnie's favourite - my mother's delicious homemade ice cream.
We eagerly participated in similar activities whether it be the recitals our piano teacher arranged where we danced minuets while properly costumed in wigs, satin gowns or trousers, or the school music festivals where we competed in singing and elocution.
Later on we often studied together, honing our academic skills parallel to discussions of the new life information that teens begin to assimilate. We shared knowledge, sometimes accurate and sometimes a little shocking and eye-opening!
My first long dress was made for me by my grandmother on the occasion of Myrnie's graduation from high school. It was white organdie with beautiful hand embroidered butterflies adorning the full skirt. ( A dress I still have). Myrnie chose to wear it for her first formal dance during her initial year of university.
I, along with Jean, was a part of Myrnie's wedding party. Then, as one can expect, each of us became involved in our own lives, careers, young families and new habitats. But, we never forgot the relationship that we continued to nurture with cards; letters at Christmas; the much more occasional personal visits nor the phone calls made at the very least on April 13th and 15th. I am so glad that these past years we have ended our calls with "love you Madge; love you Myrnie" for these words became the final words we shared with one another.
Dearest Myrnie - Bright, beautiful, talented and loyal.
Thank you for being my friend.
"Love you",
Madge
