The cooler temperatures we are experiencing are a contrast to the past two weeks. By now, I’m sure the well-seasoned prairie person has all of the necessary warm outer clothing to avoid frostbite. Hoar frost on the trees has created a magical winter wonderland. Spring is only a little more than three months way if you want to cheer about something.
Whitkow and Mayfair will dearly miss Shirley Lamontange, as she has relocated to a senior housing complex in Shell Lake. Shirley and Oliver (deceased) have been living in our area for about 50 years raising their four children. who all attended Mayfair Central School. They were staunch supporters of the many fundraisers the community hosted. So now, rather than hopping in my vehicle for a mile and a half drive, I will have to plan ahead for 70 miles.
Shirley was always a busy person, working outside with her cattle, so hopefully she can put her feet up and dream about them. Dawn, her sister, lives in that area and her only brother, Jack Day, frequently visits. His son Owen owns Mont Nebo store. With many people not wanting to shop in larger areas because of COVID-19, Owen’s sales have gone up tremendously. Nothing like supporting the businesses in one’s own area.
Sad to hear Sarah Beaudoin of Maymont passed away at the age of 100 years. She was a remarkable woman, always giving back to her community. Sarah kept up with the times in this ever-changing world and was interesting in what activities the young were involved in. She lived one block away from her daughter before moving into River Heights Lodge, North Battleford. Condolences to the Beaudoin family.
Ashley (Curtis) Babiy moved from her job at the Royal Bank in North Battleford to manager at Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce since early spring. It takes her one hour and 15 minutes to get to work, five days a week. Fifty years ago, when we moved to the farm, very few people commuted to work in the city, but now it is a common practice.
My apology to Doreen Kulpa, as I had stated in my last column that she resides at River Heights Lodge. She still lives in her home and can manage her daily activities just fine.
Congratulations to Gail Adamus on being a great-grandmother. Her granddaughter, Kelsey (Jared) Samborski had a baby two weeks ago. Proud grandparents are Tammy and Dale Staryki of Battleford. The Adamus family farmed east of Mayfair and, after Edward passed, Gail moved to the Battlefords. Dale’s father lived in Whitkow for many years.
COVID-19 has influenced how children are being encouraged to approach activities this winter. News reports indicate sales of cross-country skis and snowshoes have been brisk, as children are encouraged to park the electronics and get outside. Drivers are reminded of this and advised to slow down, especially during the school break.
The making of ice is presenting problems in some rural communities. We love the above normal temperatures, but this can create many problems. To some, the drastic change to cold is welcome. Skating season will be brief this winter.
Only a few more sleeps before Christmas, so get hustling and do all those last-minute shopping chores. Gatherings will be small, but share the love and warmth in any way you can.
