A special letter I wanted to share (from her Daughter Karen)

"I wanted to send along my thanks for your filming of my Mom’s legacy.

For the first 13 years of my life, my Mom was basically a single Mom trying her best to raise five children. There was not a lot of time to just sit around and chat; there was always something that needed to be done – meals, laundry, homework, driving one kid or another, to one thing or another. Then along came a stepfather and another brother, and things didn’t get any less hectic. Years passed and then I was off to University and starting my own adult journey.

Now that my children are grown and off building their own lives, I am very grateful that Mom is still very healthy, and that we have time to spend together.

Over the last number of years, I have been fortunate enough to take several trips with Mom, including quite a few girls’ weekends away. The girls’ weekends have often included Mom’s best friend Charlene, my daughter, my sister and my niece. We’ve had the privilege of hearing some stories of how these two extremely strong, resilient ladies survived and helped each other raise their many children with less than helpful spouses.

Having said all that, in my Mom’s legacy film, an otherwise introverted, quiet lady was given the forum she needed to open up. You were able to draw out through conversation, things she didn’t think important to talk about; things that she believed were a “nothing” in her life. Having lived in England during the war, travelling to Canada as a teenager, marrying a man that turned into an alcoholic and left her with five children to raise on her own while he returned to Denmark – really!!!! These facts were known to me, but the feelings and impact behind those facts were never communicated. Even though the world was a very different place back then –Mom’s journey has really been quite fascinating.

I have always believed that my Mother was a very strong, capable person, but your film confirmed that for me. I can see how her past influenced her character, and the lessons that she passed along to her children.

It is a terrific way for all of us to hear to her story – her children, grandchildren and future great grandchildren. It is also a treasure that we can use in the future, to watch and learn from my Mother.

You took the time to get to know Mom and ensure that her personality was reflected in the film. Your gentle, yet insightful questioning, made my Mother feel comfortable and relaxed so she could tell her story willingly. Your enthusiasm encouraged and drew out Mom’s story. Your very loving, humorous personality was instrumental in creating this successful outcome.

Thank you for this forever gift.

Karen"