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About the award
Heritage Saskatchewan Awards celebrate heritage preservation work undertaken throughout the province. The projects recognized represent the rich diversity of heritage, both tangible and intangible, found in Saskatchewan. They are a testament to the value that individuals and communities place upon documenting, promoting, teaching, and safeguarding heritage for future generations.
What inspired me to start my blog/podcast?
History and writing have always been things I love. Five years ago, I read an article about blogging; I was intrigued and inspired to create a blog followed by a podcast.
I hope to motivate others to ask questions and to document their histories. I also encourage people to try new things at every stage of life.
What does my blog/podcast focus on?
Having my own writing space allows me the creative freedom to write about whatever piques my interest: history, world events and collective human experiences. Many of my stories are tempered with humour.
One of my series of stories showcases prairie life, the challenges homesteaders faced, wartime experiences and how education, industry, medical care, travel and entertainment have evolved over the past century. Recollections about my experiences growing up on a farm and then raising our family in a small prairie town are included.
My stories contain my research and information shared by family, friends and Saskatchewan residents past and present. Dates and facts are important, but it is the memories shared by people who experienced these events that bring stories to life.
Provincial and national publications, including Saskatchewan Folklore, More of Our Canada, and Prairies North Magazines, have published a selection of these stories. I am thrilled they will remain in their archives for people to access in the years ahead.
What were my expectations when I launched?
Starting out, I had no experience as a writer; I didn’t know what to expect. I invited a dozen people to read my blog; now, it reaches readers across Canada and in other countries.
What do I enjoy most about the process of creating?
I love the exhilaration of seeing a story idea take shape and the sense of accomplishment I feel when it is completed. I treasure the memories these stories illicit from people and the conversations that follow.
Why do I feel the stories I tell/share are important?
It is important to learn about and acknowledge the people who built our communities. These were and are hardworking people with a sense of adventure and an entrepreneurial spirit. They were willing to take risks to support their families and serve their communities. Our history helps us understand ourselves and gives us a sense of belonging.
How did it feel to be named a recipient?
I was honoured to be named a recipient of a 2023 Heritage Saskatchewan Award. I hope to share my stories with as many people as possible.
Award Presentations
The award presentations took place on November 8th, 2023 at Government House in Regina, followed by a reception. His Honour, the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan, the Honourable Russell Mirasty, presented the awards.
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