Monday, June 21, 2010

A Different Type of Creativity

Over the last 6 weeks we have been working overtime in order to get my parents estate in shape and sell their home. It's been difficult to come to terms with, but practicality dictates its sale.

Although my Father never worked professionally as a jeweller, he graduated from Ryerson Institute of Technology (about a year behind the famous Bill Reid!) in jewellery design. He was always able to work in metal and wood and passed on that love to me. Some of his best advice was "measure twice, cut once" or "I cut it twice and it was still too short!" and about power tools: "It doesn't stop when you say ouch".
My Mother had a different type of creative streak, one that I lack. She could arrange flowers and "things" like no one I know. Give me some flowers to arrange, and well, you just don't want to be there.... Poor flowers. She created with her hands and heart and loved her gardens.

Their ultimate act of creation was this home overlooking Cowichan Bay on Vancouver Island. They designed it, my Dad built a lot of it. They could be an amazing team. They would kid that he was a do-it-yourself husband with a get-it-done wife. Sadly when she passed away, the get-it-done drive was gone and the spiral staircase in the silo remains unfinished, as have a number of other projects.
If you know of anyone looking for a home on the Westcoast, about 40 minutes from Victoria, there is one available.... Please contact Nick Brown

Pst! It needs a get-it-done person to love it!

All photos are current unless otherwise noted. If you are receiving this as an email update, please click on the title to view the slideshow on the blog.






3 comments:

  1. Oh my...what a beautiful place to live into. I know it hurts like hell to give the home of your parents away, but maybe that last cut will also sooth you sometimes.

    1000 hugs and you know where you find me, when you want to talk, cry, being angry. I'm here for you.

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  2. What stunning architectual details! The yard and gardens are glorious! What a fabulous view too! Your parents were extremely talented.
    Although this is heartbreaking for you, it might help to know how proud and happy your parents would be to know that you have brought it back to life and someday soon, a new family will respect and enjoy the home your parents built and loved. They raised a wonderful daughter!

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  3. What a lovely place. I hope it finds the perfect person to love it back.
    Thinking of you.

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