THE RESOLUTION: Meaningful Get-Togethers
CHALLENGE ACCOMPLISHMENT # 5
See Part I @
Part II
I guess it’s only fitting that I write the rest of the story while soaring at 39,653ft on my afternoon trip back home. Hours prior to lift, my stomach curdled violently as if to match to raw power of the thunder and lightning dominating the sky over Calgary. My grandparents already faced long delays at the airport this morning. Despite how long, far and often I travel, my fear of flying has only intensified. I begged the travel gods to spare me from the storm.
They must be fond of me because the empyrean blues peaked and swiftly spread as I stared out the window of gate 43. The clouds departed so quickly in fact, that we nearly left the tarmac on time. Quite shocking given the recent description provided by the airport attendants regarding the current state of the Calgary airport as “a Walmart parking lot... for planes!”
Settled into my window seat I finally have an opportunity to sit and reflect on the last week. My mom and I devised a makeshift plan to try and capture my surprise arrival on film. I’m not the stealthy ninja I used to be so she blocked my sisters view as I ran around the dinner table that Maite, as well as Manina and Spencer all sat at. It’s fair to say that despite any slips or suspicions, and beyond the extra work and stress incurred to keep the secret, my surprise arrival was worth it. The moment it took for Maite to register that I was, in fact, standing right in front her, lead to a brilliant transformation in her face that was memorable indeed. Of course there were many hugs and kisses as I made my way around greeting the rest of my family, meanwhile my sister just kept repeating incredulously, “did you know?”
The next day I helped Maite find her way through a sea of grinning young people all in their caps and gowns. We located her robes and the well earned piece of paper finally announcing her as University graduate. Of course the ceremony hadn’t even transpired yet but we took every chance to snap some shots anyways. It was fantastic to be able to celebrate this achievement with her.
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| The Eternal flame from Calgary's 1986 Olympics |
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| Apparently putting this thing on properly requires a PhD |
My family and I sat together paging through the University of Calgary’s 2013 graduating class booklet searching for our kin’s name to be proudly displayed under the degree title B.Sc. Environmental Science. We watched eagerly, perched high above the stage until it was her turn to be called. She certainly seemed more at ease than I felt at my convocation but I’m sure she appreciated spotting me as I slithered as near as I could to film her crossing the stage. :)
The ceremony brought together a family typically separate by thousands of miles and up to 8 time zones. Still within the first 24 hours of us gathering we have already celebrated a great achievement, eaten the finest meals, and most importantly, got the chance to be together with the people we love.
I’m still smiling just recalling the event while I approach Hamilton. My attention has been severely distracted though. It’s nearly midnight now and we have not yet started descending but the earth below is putting on her best show. The sky is the purest of blacks, no a single hint of cloud as far as I can see. I have never seen a clearer picture in my life. It is a clustered beauty of sprawling lights sparkling like fire opals and sapphires, with the occasional ruby and quartz in addition to the dazzling moonstones and diamonds. Everything feels within reach.
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| <3 <3 <3 |
One woman. One year. 80 down. 89 to go.
Addendum
As many of you may know, many Southern Alberta communities including the city of Calgary where devastated by floods no more than 48 hours after I left my former home province. The images and videos have had a particularly strong impact on me because so many people who are part of my life have been impacted. 100,000 people were displayed and recovery may take years. Please show your support and donate through the organization of your choice to help the people, nature and wildlife affected.
Addendum
As many of you may know, many Southern Alberta communities including the city of Calgary where devastated by floods no more than 48 hours after I left my former home province. The images and videos have had a particularly strong impact on me because so many people who are part of my life have been impacted. 100,000 people were displayed and recovery may take years. Please show your support and donate through the organization of your choice to help the people, nature and wildlife affected.
From http://www.cbc.ca/news/:
The Canadian Red Cross Alberta Floods Response is accepting financial donations. Call 1-800-418-1111.
Canadians can also donate to the Salvation Army Alberta Flood Relief Effort at the website or call 1-800-725-2769.
Samaritan's Purse Canada says it will need volunteers to help in the cleanup and recovery of flooded homes. As well, people can donate money. Call 1-800-663-6500.
The Calgary Drop-In & Rehab Centre is also seeking various goods and supplies including socks, underwear, hygiene supplies, bug spray, blankets and pillows, towels and plungers. The centre is also looking for volunteers and donations. Call 403-699-8260.
Other organizations seeking assistance include the YWCA of Calgary, Calgary Clean Up Facebook page, Volunteer Calgary and YYC Helps.
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