To Shippagan

I packed a small suit case. Being sarees, I could pack plenty and enough in it. Tom's mother wondered how they were going to recognize me when I got off the train. I told them that it was easy because of my saree. How many would be there wearing a saree? Actually, I was the first one from India his sisters and parents met. The journey on the train was long and very pleasant. Tom's mother and his youngest sister(around 5 or 6 years) came to the station to receive me. There were three other younger sisters. One was studying in PEI, so I did not get to meet her. Fans of 'Anne of Green Gables' would know about this province.

The other two were in high school then.
The girls took me to their school. I got a tour of the school, classes and got to meet the brothers, sisters etc. of the Convent. Geography and Math were taught by one teacher who was not a Nun. I was asked to give a talk on India to her class, the traditions and customs. Then there was a question and answer session. The boys had all the questions. About dating, whether I was allowed to dance with boys, why I was wearing that dot on my forehead and finally whether I was eighteen years old!! I told them that I was in my twenties. I was quite nervous addressing such curious audience.

That night at the dinner table, it was a shock for them to find out that I was a vegetarian. The mother was very disappointed to serve only potatoes and salad to me. One thing I noticed different from the Ontario families was that here, like my family in India, the mother made sure everyone got their meal and then she sat down at the table. We went upstairs to the bedrooms. The older girls and i were chatting and the little one, Christine(?), was hiding in the hallway and listening to our conversations. It was past bed time for her and was not allowed to stay up late. But we let her in secretly anyway! The midnight snack was served and we had to go downstairs. To my surprise and a second time disappointmet for them, shrimp, the delicacy for them was served and I could not eat. I had to explain more on my food habits.

On Sunday, we went to their church for the morning service. It was in Latin. It sounded great even though I did not understand a word. When we returned home, there was a saree wearing ceremony. I draped my silk sarees on the older girls, took photos and they enjoyed it a lot.

Next they took me to their grand parents place. I do not remember the name of the town. They had some special family celebration that day. The tradition of that village was that a small figurine (idol?) of Virgin Mary from the church was allowed to be taken to their home for a night, whether it is a happy occassion or a death in the family. I got to touch that sacred figurine.

I am amazed that I am able to recollect even this much after 40 years!!!

Finally, when it was time to leave, the youngest girl was sobbing!! They refused to take any money even though I came as a paying guest. They said they gained so much by my visit that they did not want money from me. After my return to Toronto, I sent a 'Thank you' note and a pair of Silver candle holders as a token of appreciation.

I saw the Tidal bore, Tidal waves, The pulp and paper factory during this trip.