From the small rural community of Blezard Valley, and the first of six children in a francophone home, Lucie Desbiens heard stories from older generations, and lived more adventures of her own.
Now, in her newly released book by The Brucedale Press, ‘Alive in My Stories’, she shares her experiences of growing up in a rural small town family where love, learning, and challenges were experienced every day.
In her ‘Alive in My Stories’, Desbiens tells of her childhood as one of six children with a father who was a police officer and a mother who was a teacher. She recalls in vivid detail the many farm chores, skating in the rink and on the frozen potato field, as well as experiences in the classroom and school yard. Close-by her grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins ensured a strong family network while school and church at St. Rosaire formed the timetable of her days. Friendships she shared over the years provided loving memories of times in the neighbours’ tree house, taking part in choirs and schoolyard ball games.
Her stories are told with compassion and spiced with humour.
Desbiens, now living in Port Elgin, is retired after a career as a teacher in area schools, including St. Joseph’s in Port Elgin, St. Antony’s in Kincardine, and sacred Heart in Walkerton. Today, she serves the area as a trustee with the Bruce-Grey Roman Catholic School Board.
This delightful book of reminiscences is perfect reading for a Bruce County winter’s day or as an ideal gift for February 14th, Valentine’s Day.
‘Alive in my Stores’ is available through independent bookstores or directly from The Brucedale Press at www.brucedalepress.ca, info@brucedalepress.ca or 1-866-832-6025 in Canada.
