The Seasons Were Long
User Story
By Nick Trieu
For a kid the summers were so long, and so were the winters.
We came to Edmonton in 1980. Looking back I am so happy this country was willing to adopt us. As a kid growing in the southeastern corner of Edmonton, the summers seemed so long and the winters too, but what I would give to relive those days.
I never realized how far north Edmonton was. The sun seemed like it never set in summers (until 11pm) and set too fast in winters (3pm).
It was a world to explore, so much to pack in. Summers were full of catching frogs and tadpoles in the pond by 91 Street. Much of the area was undeveloped at that time. Chasing grasshoppers in the tall grass, riding our bikes through the ravine to Mill Creek pool. Lying on the grass, staring at the clouds guessing what shape it was and then dozing off into a daydream. Getting together with your friends to play a game of baseball or soccer. Climbing trees to see how high we can go, stealing crab apples from the neighborhood. Causing terror through the area. I really miss those days.
Winters trudging to school in snow up to our heads (for a kid, it was tall!). Why they never cancelled school, I do not know. The anticipation of coming home and putting on our skates and playing hockey until our parents came to get us. Making snow angels in the fresh white falling snow (which was never lacking). Having snowball fights with the kids in the neighborhood. Making Forts and pelting cars as they go by. What memories!
Edmonton was truly a fun place to grow up. It has a special place for me. With the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, remembering the summers and winters as a kid in Edmonton always bring a smile to my face.
