Because Olds is a college town, we have a seasonal influx of residents, boosting our businesses, enlivening the streets. On the whole they are a benefit to us. We at First Baptist have been blessed to have many students attending our church over the years. It was through the church that I received my first live-in renter, the beginning of a long line of boarders. In my first home I shared space with my mother-in-law. She had an additional room added to the back of the master bedroom, giving her some space away from a hectic house of teenage boys. As I was working nights at the time, I sometimes felt that I deserved a house all to myself, but that didn't happen. After Jane was no longer with us, the little suite sat empty for a short while. A newly hired nurse stopped in at the church to inquire about rental accommodation and was referred to me. I hadn't made any plans yet about ëNanny's suite' but agreed to give Susan a try. Another young Christian woman followed her. Both appreciated having their own space, only coming through the house to use the laundry in the basement.
During that time dad received a phone call from an old friend inquiring about housing for his granddaughter, Glenda, who was heading to college from Saskatchewan. My friend Sara agreed to take her but before Glenda arrived, Sara made plans to move away. Of course I said, "send her to me." My house was again overflowing. In the interim Sara agreed that I could buy her house. I was able to sell mine with the condition that my granny suite occupant could remain in place. Glenda had already moved in, so she joined my remaining son and me as we moved, just two blocks north into the duplex. The location was still ideal for her ready access to the college, but got us farther away from the hubbub of the auction market traffic. Glenda remained with me for two years, bringing her younger sister the second year. The two of them were from the farm and were taking farm management. They talked of their growing skills with animals, welding and taking X-rays. The many visits from their family added to the increased activity in my home. I knew her family casually and developed a stronger relationship over time. We laughed about the difference in my life, hosting young women after the many years of the onslaught of large teenage boys. The long banister in my front room was often pulled into service to dry blue jeans and soft sweaters. The front and back entry mats were a jumble of boots and shoes. Coats draped over the newel post when the closet overflowed. Glenda's dad agreed that I could start a used clothing store with the wares that were on display. Over the next few years I had four more students share my living space. Each time it was a case of one agreed- upon renter who brought home a friend. I was fortunate in that all six were from Christian homes, were respectful and honoured my few rules. I received two wedding invitations and one continues to send me Christmas letters complete with photos of her growing family. I recall a family at church recommending to the congregation the benefit of taking in students, giving them a home away from home. I can't say I ever set out intending to be a landlady. I confess that getting acquainted with the extended families broadened my world. Three of the students were relatives of people that I already knew. One was from Grande Prairie and her parents were well acquainted with folks that I knew from my time in the north. The final student was referred to me by my sister; Amanda was the daughter of a couple from Judy's church. We always found a great deal in common. Those parents enjoyed sitting in my living room, chatting awhile after delivering their child and her baggage into my home. By getting to know the parents, I felt more like I was receiving a special gift, rather than being overwhelmed.
