Remember When… A Trip Down Memory Lane

Memories shape who we are. They bring us back to moments of joy, achievement, and connection. Let’s trip down memory lane and relive some of these special moments.

Personal Achievements

Remember when Emily Honderich earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Integrated Media from the Ontario College of Art and Design University in 2023? That milestone culminated years of dedication, creativity, and artistic exploration.

Remember when Emily’s Yearning artwork was featured in the Drawing 2024 exhibition at Aird Gallery in Toronto? It was a proud moment, made even more special when showcased on page 73 of the exhibition’s PDF catalogue.

Remember when Emily designed the book cover for Water Lilies: Stories by Young Afghan Women in 2023? Her work played a role in The Shoe Project’s mission to amplify immigrant women’s voices, making a difference through art.

Remember when Emily received the Volunteer of the Year award from the Brain Injury Society of Toronto in 2023? Her dedication to assisting with online craft activities and managing housing lists made a meaningful impact on the community.

Remember when Emily participated in a one-week artist residency at Gibraltar Point in July 2024? It was a time of deep creative exploration, surrounded by nature and fellow artists.

Remember when Emily collaborated with artist Julie Mollins on Fragmented Devolutions for Nuit Blanche? Her embroidery skills contributed to a stunning installation that captivated audiences.

Remember when Emily’s digital illustrations were featured in The Shoe Project’s Covid Across Canada Stories between 2020 and 2022? Her work beautifully captured the diverse experiences of women during the pandemic.

Remember when Emily designed the future Calgary Peace Museum logo in 2022? A symbol of peace and community, her design helped shape the identity of an important institution.

Remember when Emily’s rug hooking artwork was showcased in the Art on the Brain Expressive Arts Show in 2024? Her fibre arts talent and versatility across mediums shone through at the Brain Injury Society of Toronto’s exhibition.

Remember when Emily expanded her artistic repertoire to knitting, crocheting, rug hooking, and weaving? Her commitment to exploring diverse mediums added new dimensions to her creative journey.

Personal Memories 

Remember when we went to Greece with my Mum —Patmos—on a Celebrity Cruises ship? We got off at a hilly island, and my mum taught me to drive a standard gear shift car. Changing gears on slopes was rugged, but the trip was terrific—exploring the island, taking tours, swimming, and spotting turtles and lizards under the hot, humid sun.

Remember when my mum took me to the movies in a wheelchair? It was ten years ago, after I dislocated my knee, and even though I was in pain, she made sure we still had a good time.

Remember when I worked on acrylic paintings at Nada’s studio? It was in downtown Toronto, inside her creative space. Nada Sesar Raffay, with her brown hair and glasses, was 45 years old and painted stunning abstract landscapes. Her work was inspiring.

Remember when I had dogs? Alice was my first when I was 16. A Kerry Blue Terrier with brown curly hair, she was caring and goodhearted but only lived for five years. Then came Jasper, another Kerry Blue Terrier, humorous and full of personality. I had him for five years until he passed away from cancer.

Remember when I volunteered at the Scott Mission with Ruth Anne? We worked in the food bank, organizing food and clothing and distributing essentials to homeless men and women. It was humbling to help and see the strength in those we served.

Remember when I visited Hamilton with Ruth Anne Baldry to see her brother’s band? The energy, the music, the road trip—it was an unforgettable night.

Remember when I worked with Grandpa George on the Govier family tree using Family Tree Maker software? We were in Calgary, digging deep into our ancestry. We traced the Goviers back 60 years to England. (I also did the Honderich family tree independently—Honderich is German!)

Remember when Emily and Morgan performed ”Who’s on First” at The Linden School? Their comedic timing and chemistry brought the classic routine to life for the audience.

Remember when Emily went to drama camp and sang Singing in the Rain while holding an umbrella? It was a magical performance, filled with enthusiasm and joy.

Memories like these remind us of how much we’ve grown, the experiences we’ve shared, and the connections we’ve built.