Rather Wordy Wednesday - 134

Ten years ago, in May 2000, my Mom was part of a group art show in Toronto held by the volunteers of the National Ballet of Canada. I had moved to Nova Scotia the year before, so Mom and I took the train to Toronto in order to attend, bringing the art pieces along with us. You can see three of her pieces hanging behind her.

The show hung in the lobby of the theatre where I used to work, and could be enjoyed for the month while the company performed their spring season. During the season opener dress rehearsal, the volunteers held an art opening for the artists and their invited guests.

Mom was thrilled when some of our Michigan family and friends drove to Toronto to be part of her special evening.














Among those who joined us from Michigan were Mary and Chris, the couple seen here in the center of the photo. To the right is my mom's brother, Uncle Warren, also from Michigan, seen chatting with longtime family friend Judi, originally our Nova Scotia next door neighbour who now lives in Ontario.

Mary is my oldest friend - we met when we were 3, and were little playmates living on the same street in Royal Oak, Michigan. We stayed friends when I moved to Canada when I was 6.

I was in her wedding party when she married Chris, and she was in mine when I married Brad.













After the art opening, Mom's art show guests were invited to my sister's apartment (she still lived in Toronto then, but is a Maritimer once again here in Nova Scotia.) Amongst the revelers:

Back row - Andrea (she stood up for Brad as his attendent of honour,) me, my dear friend Mary and my sister Michelle

Front row - Mom, my 'war buddy' Lisa (we survived working retail in the children's shoe department,) and Jacquie (who worked alongside me in the theatre.)

If you can believe it - because I can't - this is the last time I've seen Mary in person. Ten years ago! Where did the time go?!?

It's her birthday tomorrow - Happy Birthday, Mary! You've been a constant bright light in my life. Hugs and many thanks for all the joy you've given me.

Kelly Boyce says Nice post, Julia!

Gattina says I have an exposition each year with my painting group here in Waterloo. Looks like your pictures, lol !

Jams O'Donnell says Here's to friends we haven't seen in a while. I'm sure we will pick up where we last left off!