Baba's Special Things


When we remember Baba,
many things will come to mind.
Her many special creations...
things that made her 'one-of-a-kind'.

Baba's special bread -
her PASKA's a work of art...
her BABKA's were delicious...
her breads set her apart.

Baba's little birdies...
that sat on her braided bread...
were handcrafted so lovingly...
blessed the bread, from which we fed.

Baba's special pyrohy...
like VELVET they were compared...
They melted in your mouth so easy...
It's special times when these were shared.

Then there was other 'tasties'...
buckwheat holubsti - the BEST...
but her nylesnyky and pereshky...
would definitely pass any test!

Of course we can't forget her kutya...
or donuts or vyshky for dessert...
If you couldn't eat some more...
her feelings would surely be hurt!

Baba loved her baking,
her pies and cake were 'not too sweet'...
If she knew you were coming over...
You couldn't leave 'till you had something to eat!

But 'garden goods' were also quite special...
like a fresh batch of Borsh on the stove...
pickles on the shelf...kapusta in the crock...
and apples abound in 'her grove'.

But cooking was only one thing...
that Baba enjoyed to do.
There was also her passion for sewing...
for crocheting and knitting too!

Special baby dollies...
She really loved to admire.
Blankets and matching cushions...
She'd make and never tire!

We all know Baba was a shopper...
She loved the downtown scene...
But she left the groceries for Gido...
It was CLOTHING - for which she was keen!

She had expensive taste.
She thought quality was worth the price.
Especially if it was for her...
She always wanted to look nice!

Sometimes she would just get the pattern...
and sew it for herself...
"For that price..." she said "I could make it myself!
...and they can keep theirs on the shelf!"

Baba's special hobby...
was keeping her house fresh and bright.
A new paint job was always waiting...
She'd do it again - if it still wasn't right!

But of all Baba's special things...
the things she treasured most...
were the grandchildren she loved so much...
of whom she'd often boast.

She was so proud of all our achievements.
She found joy when we had success.
But she was also there if we needed her...
If we asked for anything - she said, "Yes!"

Baba tried to make sure we all knew,
That hard work can bring a good life.
She taught us to never give up...
We could make it through any strife.

I thank her for her wisdom -
And the way she showed me her love...
And I'll always remember the special things,
That Baba was so very proud of.

Baba is happy again...
She is with family above...
She can now watch over us all...
and guide us with her love.

Thank you so much dear Baba...
You're special in so many ways...
We will never forget...
And we'll see you again one day.


This poem was written for and dedicated to ...
Helen Balanchuk
by her grandaughter...
Erlene Marie Monteith (Balanchuk)





Baba passed away peacefully on April 19, 2003.

This poem was written for Baba
as a memorial for all Baba meant
to Erlene (and everyone),
in her life.


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