July 12, 1910 – The day my Granny was born.
Wow!
Today would have been my Granny’s Hundredth Birthday. Unfortunately, she didn’t live to see it; we lost her just over 2 years ago… But I still remember thinking back then as she neared her 98th birthday, that she was going to make it to 100. I figured she’d get a letter from the Queen and the Governor General, and even get mentioned on the local news.
I can’t even begin to imagine to think of how the world has changed in the last 100 years… she lived through two World Wars, the invention of the TV, robots, computers, cell phones, Insulin, the Iron Lung, digital cameras, Penicillin, the helicopter, atomic bomb, microwave oven, Tupperware, Velcro, credit cards, artificial heart, bank machines, post-it notes, liposuction, iPods, the internet and Quantum physics to name just a few…
Think about it… none of these things existed before she was born. When she was growing up, she didn’t have a car or a telephone. Not sure about electricity, but it’s very possible she didn’t have it as a child either…
I would love to travel back in time for a day just to see what her life would have been back then... not easy, for sure, but simple. Quiet. Modest.
I can’t even imagine a day where I’m not checking my computer, iPhone, email facebook etc just to stay in contact with the rest of the world. My Granny had none of that growing up, and she survived just fine. I don’t think a lot of young people today, (I SOUND like my Granny!), could survive without their toys and gadgets… but it would be fun to watch them try!
Happy Birthday Granny!!!
WALKER, Norah Elizabeth July 12, 1910 May 22, 2008 With great sadness we say goodbye to our Mom, Norah, who passed away on May 22, 2008 at the age of 97. Norah was predeceased by her husband, John, and granddaughter Ceci, in 1999. She is survived by her loving family: Patrick Walker (Jackie), Janet Walt (Ken), Sheila Walker (Grant), and Connie Dymianiw (Randy); grandchildren Tim (Davina), Chris (Amy), Tomarra, Chenoa (Jason), Jesse, and Jon; and great-grandchildren Christopher, Parker, Alicia, Chloe, Gio, and Markus. Norah was born in Toronto, raised in Saskatoon, and worked for the CNR before her marriage to John in 1939. Mom and Dad lived throughout BC raising their family until they settled in Victoria in 1957. In their retirement they travelled extensively, enjoying RV life, numerous hobbies, and family gatherings. Mom was an avid weaver and spinner for many years, even when she lived in The Lodge at Broadmead. In her 8 years at The Lodge she received loving care and attention from the wonderful staff on A1, for which the family are very grateful. A special thanks to Dr. Christopher Morrow and emergency staff at VGH whose kindness and understanding helped mom in her last hours. Donations may be made to The Lodge at Broadmead or a charity of your choice. A family celebration of Norah's life will be held at a later date. You were the best Mom and we'll miss you so much... thanks for the wonderful memories!
