@bettywouldlovethat
If the above title seems odd to you, you are probably not familiar with Instagram. To clarify, it is the title of the Instagram account that we established almost 10 years ago to honor our late mother…and yes, her name is Betty. The Instagram account was intended to coordinate with our blog posts, and together they would pay tribute to Mom.
Recently, as a reminder of our original intention, we posted a nostalgic tribute to Mom on Instagram and we decided to do the same here. You are probably aware of the quote “pictures speak louder than words,” and that may be the best way to capture Mom’s joyful spirit. So, without further ado, we proudly present a pictorial snapshot in honor of our Mom, Betty.
For context she was the mother of five adorable children. But she was so much more than our Mom.
She was an exercise influencer, a 5K walker and an enthusiastic but very average golfer. Sitting at home was not an option, especially if it involved social interaction.
She was fun and funny. You could pretty much guarantee that Mom would be ready for fun and adventure, and always with a smile.
She couldn’t take a photograph, if her life depended on it. She was notorious for cutting off heads or leaving people out altogether. Selfies were a particular challenge.
Mom made friends wherever she went. The servers at her local Starbucks would write lovely messages on her coffee cup sleeves and when they saw her in the line up, they would have her order ready once she reached the counter.
Whether it was volunteering for the Heart and Stroke fund, an Osteoporosis study at UBC or just being involved in the activities at her Assisted Living facility, Mom was an enthusiastic participant.
Swimming was one of Mom’s favorite activities and for several years she taught baby and toddlers learn to swim classes.
In her later years Mom put her thoughts on paper, writing several short stories reflecting on her childhood, old friendships and her love and appreciation for her local community.
Mom was a dedicated dog lover, from an early age. Cindy was a long haired dachshund who enjoyed a luxurious lifestyle while in Mom’s care. (see above newspaper clipping) And Biscuit, our honorary Sisterhood dog and famous social media influencer was another favorite.
Mom was our guiding light and we continue to honor her. We decided that the best way to do so, along with the Instagram and Blog posts, would be to walk a 5K in every Province. To date we have walked in every Province except Manitoba, Ontario and Newfoundland. In October of this year we plan to check Manitoba off of our list. And one thing we know for sure….
Betty Would Love That!
