|
I truly, deeply thank Annette for being my mum and friend, and helping to create the person I am today. From my early years I remember her involvement at the school, assisting with the canteen, etc. upholding solid family values. Our income wasn’t grand, but I was given opportunities a plenty; swimming, little athletics, brownies/girl guides, tennis, piano. Mum drove far and wide to lessons, competitions and carnivals. Living expenses were kept to a minimum through conservation of water, electricity, gas, materials, etc. Mum was a whiz at creating outfits from the minimal of fabric, and wonderfully wholesome meals were constructed from the cheapest vegetables and cuts of meat. Our school lunches always contained freshly baked cakes and biscuits. We complained that the best was always reserved for dinner parties; leftovers were scarce. It was decided that television wasn’t needed in our home and consequently ‘bored’ doesn’t feature in my life. I loved playing chess, checkers, monopoly, card games, etc. with the family. Mum’s progressive attitude was ever present as she tried new arts/crafts and recipes, then a new school for me. I came home one day and discussed the fact I was wagging; school wasn’t fun any more. So I moved to an ‘alternative school’, where kids were encouraged to be responsible for themselves and their learning. I am so grateful for that opportunity, especially as the private school fees encroached severely on the family budget. But as a parent myself today, I am touched by that commitment. Our garden wasn’t fancy, but Mum planted colour for every season. Flowers of varying shapes and sizes were placed in vases and smiled upon us. Fresh produce was reaped from the veggie patch. Mum’s love of gardening reflected her down-to-earth nature. I know Mum must have endured plenty when she married Dad. She was so strong to withstand ill favour from her own family and friends, and also Dad’s family and friends. Nevertheless, she sewed her own wedding dress and self-catered for the small reception. Challenges continued as she ventured to Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia to meet the relatives. I don’t think travelling was easy for her, but she did enjoy learning through my nomadic lifestyle. She would have the atlas open to where I was at the time and invariably an article or TV program would turn up for her to see and discover. If people requested she come and do a talk for them she would lovingly oblige, otherwise she was happy at home. I would often buy food and drop by to share it with Mum and Dad but when they moved from Melbourne to Bundaberg there was something missing in my life. It was an odd feeling not being able to share with them at will. But the phone was always available, any time. Mum was a night owl, reading, communing, meditating, writing books, etc. so late night talking was easy, and often long. I love my Mum and the happy, love she spread, her foresight and strength to believe and be who she was. And especially the love she had for me.
Lucienne Noontil
|
|
