Update On Joanne

We first had the pleasure of meeting the DaQuano family when we moved onto their street about four years ago. Yes I said their street, not ours nor any others, it is theirs and shall always remain so!

We had just moved from living many years in Etobicoke and one of the first neighbours I met was "big" Mike. After greetings all around Mike asked me "so why did you choose to live in Georgetown". I mentioned that we knew for awhile that it was time to leave Etobicoke and while we had considered numerous possibilities, G'Town just "felt right". Am I ever glad that we decided to go with our gut feelings, an incredible town with amazing neighbours! Although my oldest was 13 at the time, Dylan and my youngest daughter were inseparable for the first couple of years. I quickly got used to Mike's whistling at Supper time for the kids to come to eat. I now regard it as a sound of love and security and it never fails to bring a smile to my face. While talking with Ted DQ sevaral nights ago, he whistled for the dogs to come, so now I know where that talent comes from!

One of the earliest nights I recall in this neighbourhood was shortly after we arrived in town. Mike was working for a different company then and traveling extensively. I believe he was in Vancouver when Joanne came to visit one evening, probably to round up the kids as her whistle isn't nearly as effective as Mike's. Well Joanne was invited for a glass of wine on the deck and thankfully stayed for several. Joanne was very concerned about having alcohol in front of my children - she just found out that she would be teaching my oldest in Grade Eight that coming September. I told her not to worry as we were from Newfoundland and if you didn't drink there, you may be asked to permanently leave the province! I informed her that we also have several teachers in our family, so our kids were used to seeing teachers allowed be human.

While she was there I told Joanne I would like to tell her something and I hoped she wouldn't be upset or take it in any way but a compliment. She said rather cautiously "go ahead", and with my wife sitting next to her I said "you are one of the most naturally beautiful people I have ever met in my life". Truly, the girl next door who doesn't need any assistance to be perfectly gorgeous. I had no idea if she would scream, run away or call the pervert patrol. But as always, she was extremely graceful and just politely thanked me. She flashed my Wife a look which said "does he do this with all the neighbours" but I can honestly say that she is the only lady who doesn't live in my house that I have ever said something along that nature to. But I am pretty sure she "googled" my name later that night to check the registry for offenders! Mike arrived shortly thereafter and took Joanne's seat as she went home to attend to the children. I informed Mike what I had told his Wife and only at that moment did I realize just how much larger than me he actually is! A guitar and several drinks later Mike was fortunate enough to witness my sweet singing voice. Now it is well documented that I have THE worst signing voice on this side of the Rockies. but Mike is nothing if not patient and encouraging, and perhaps deaf! I like to think that passion makes up for any discernable trace of talent - hey, we all have our fantasies.

After a short while I came to realize that Joanne's outward beauty pales in comparison to matching the undeniable splendor that is your soul!

In the ensuing years it is so wonderful to be involved in such a caring community. It truly does take a village to raise a child and we are so fortunate to experience that on our little street. Watching your kids grow alongside ours is what life is all about. Whether it's Dylan rapidly approaching adulthood (maybe he will let me sing in HIS band?), Bonesy briefly playing goal for Amber-Lee's female hockey team or Darcy "McGee" laughing and dancing in the basement - it is all truly a treasure! Target also likes to visit occasionally and is just as welcome as any other member of your amazing family.

I like to think your family knows that we are here and always available, the reason could never be too small nor large - please don't ever, ever hesitate!

Joanne, we can only wish to possess your grace, charm, courage and strength. You are truly an ongoing inspiration to all who have had the extremely good fortune of being anywhere near your presence.

Mike, you are the essence of fortitude, strength and friendship. If every family had the both of you as role models - then this would truly be a wonderful world!

Thank you both always for inviting us into "the hood" and as they say Down East - Long may your big jib draw".

Love Always!
Dave, Sharon, Ashley and Amber-Lee Greene