Month: October 2015

October 18, 2015

Musings from an undecided Voter on Federal Election Eve 2015 

As this marathon campaign (the longest since 1872 – source http://www.parl.gc.ca/Parlinfo/Compilations/ElectionsAndRidings/LengthCampaigns.aspx), winds to a squeaky, screechy, nails-on-a-blackboard closure, I realize that I am at a loss. 

 I am truly undecided. 

I am informed.   I’ve followed Federal Politics for years; debating issues with my family and friends, discussing public policy from a young age.  I first voted at age 18, dragging my best friend with me, the entire time lecturing her on the importance of this civic responsibility. 

I do not feel an affinity with the major parties.  My core values – fiscal conservatism, environmental stewardship, social entrepreneurship,  support for families to name a few – are not reflected in any one party, but in snippets across them all.  

 The candidates within my riding are all quite approachable, and I’ve had the opportunity to chat with each one over the past few months.     I am weighing the options of voting for the person, or for the party.  

I find it incredibly promising to have a strong voter turnout at advance polls. Our collective apathy has been on the rise the past few decades and Canadians appear poised to reclaim their democracy.  

I will vote at some point on October 19.

  But my “X” will be undecided until I enter the booth.  

October 13, 2015

My Parents

October 10,2015, marked my parents’ 45th wedding anniversary. Their ceremony was held in a beautiful stone church in Red Deer, Alberta, and they were surrounded by their closest friends and family.

Carol and Art are both humble and do not like the spotlight, but as their daughter, I feel that it is necessary to share a bit of why I think they are incredible.

Mom and Dad are the first-born of their respective families; Mom of six and Dad of seven. I know how much their siblings look up to them as I see and feel the admiration through my relationships with my aunts and uncles.  

Growing up, I did not always appreciate the good parenting I received.  As a mother of three teenage daughters, I now wonder how my parents dealt with their troublesome offspring with such patience. 

They both have incredible hearts and show their love quietly through their actions. My dad can always be counted on to ensure that my oil is changed and that my van is in working order. Dad volunteers in many aspects of the community to help those in need of assistance. He is one of the most intelligent people I know 
Mom is patient and kind; she is one of the nicest people I know.  She is a caretaker, whether it be a member of her family or a neighbour in need.  Any friend I’ve ever brought home is always welcomed (and most often fed as well). 

They are the most amazing grandparents to my daughters. My kids love visiting the farm, meeting extended family and joking with dad’s coffee buddies. 

I am so proud to call them mom and dad.

I love you both.