Today@Dal

Ana Mercedes de Castro Acosta Miralles Delgado de Blair was soft, delicate and beautiful like the petal of a rose.  Strong and resilient like its stem, but without any thorns. Her joyful, generous spirit filled the room. People who knew her would always say “She is the kindest person I know.” Olive skin, brown eyes, perfectly applied lipstick and clip on earning. Beautiful inside and out.

Born in Caracas, Venezuela in 1930 to Susana and Jose Maria de Castro, Ana was the eldest sister to Jose Maria (decease), Alvaro (decease), Susana, Tulia, and Gonzalo. Ana, affectionately called la Nena at home, was revered among her family. Described as commanding with a quiet presence.  She possessed an innocence and filled their childhood home with laughter and music. A singer, a piano player and theatrical by nature. She inspired her siblings to have hopes, goals and dreams. She pursued her dream and worked alongside of her father – the founder of tourism in Venezuela – traveling the world as a tour guide in their family business.

In 1962 Ana enrolled at Berkeley University in California to study English. There she met Huntley while they were both living in International House. The Canadian biochemistry student fell in love at first sight with this Venezuelan beauty! His Anita. They married in 1961 and welcomed their son Ian Robert in 1962. Boston was next where Huntley undertook postgraduate study and they welcomed their daughter, Sheila Margarita in 1964. They settled in Halifax to begin their life in 1966. Ana working at Dalhousie University in a variety of administrative positions while Huntley taught Biochemistry in the Faculty of Medicine. Ana then went on to obtain her BA at Mount Saint Vincent University as a mature student in 1982. Quite an accomplishment for a woman who came to a foreign country without friends or family and developing English skills. Ana also served as the second vice president for the Federation of University Women and as the social coordinator of the Hispánicas Damas.

Mom / Anita filled our home with unselfish, passionate, dedicated love. We felt it always. She was Nanny to her grandchildren David, Ella, Huntley and Carys.  She filled their hearts with love and playful wonder. She held them in her eyes, in her hands and in her heart. She was present for them and demonstrated what is most important in life – love, kindness, joy and a giving spirit. She welcomed David Reid (Sheila’s husband), Laura Miller (Ian’s wife) and extended family Adrienne and Adam into our family with open arms.

Mom sang all day long. She was a member of the Chebucto Community Singers, Northwood Players and the New Players Choral Society and most recently sang at the Berkely where she lived happily with her jazz loving husband who played the drums alongside of her for 40 plus years. Our favourite concerts were when Mom performed a solo, which was often. Our father’s eyes would well up with pride every time. Besame Mucho was her favourite song to perform. She did so passionately, looking at my father with love.

My brother and I never heard our parents argue. They held hands during suppers, danced in the kitchen and cuddled happily in a home that was peaceful, loving and full of Mom’s laughter. Giving and forgiving, unselfish, devoted, respectful, passionate and loving. She loved us everyday of our lives. We felt that love deeply.

There is no greater legacy or gift one can bring to the world than what our treasured mother brought during her life to her family and friends, in particular her loving husband of almost 63 years. The way she made people feel is a gift.

Bendicion Mama (Nanny), Dios lo Bendiga

Thank you to “our people”, the friends who have been a sounding board many times, supporting us and loving us now and for many years, many with medical advice and guidance. Special thanks to David Reid, who because of proximity, was able to help care for Mom and Dad throughout Mom’s journey with Alzheimer’s. Thank you to the incredible nurses and doctors on 9A at the VG and in the Emergency Department for your compassion. Thank you to the Berkely. Finally, thank you to the incredible Laurene Hanley and Dr. Andrew Humphrey who cared for our sweet Ana. xox