Another Glimpse

Grandma and Grandpa Stringam (circa 1930)

Grandma Stringam was born in Teasdale, Utah July 31, 1885. She passed away in Lethbridge, Alberta May 13, 1981 at the age of 95.

 The things she witnessed during her life’s span are amazing.

Mind-boggling.

She is my hero.

Following are a couple of recollections from Grandma’s journals:

The first explains her life-long dread of snakes. Though, like the rest of us (*cough* me!) she probably didn’t need much encouragement . . .

Two-year old Grandma and her older brothers and sisters were on their way to their Grandma and Grandpa William’s house. Something that involved, in their rural area, a hike across the fields.

Ahead of them, something slithered in the grass.

A Snake!

Her siblings grabbed her by the arms and helped her jump over it.

But she got a good glimpse. Her first of such a creature.

Yeah. That did it. Something so long, cold and slithery must be treated with care.

Or downright suspicion. She decided then and there that, whenever she came into contact with such a creature, she would remain aloof.

And very far away.

The second recollection was of her father, my Great-Grandpa Williams.

And her sister, Maude.

Grandma remembered her father very well, though he died when she was seven of ‘dropsy of the heart’. She remembered his height, brown eyes and dark hair. His long face and Roman nose. She recalled how strict he was, but kind. And that when he told his children to do something, they were to do it.

Or else.

At this time, Grandma—just a bit older than her first recollection (see above)—had slapped her sister Maude in the mouth for swearing.

I don’t know about you, but sometimes, I’d like to slap a few people, too.

Ahem . . .

Grandma receive a spanking (hiding, tanning, blistering, etc.) for her actions.

Meted out by her disapproving father.

Yeah. There’s another memory that would stay with you for a very long time.

Even after the sting had disappeared . . .