I saw two snowy owls within an hour this morning, my first sightings this winter. On my way back home, this one was still perched where I saw him earlier. Thank goodness for friends who lend you their 300mm lens.

A Happy Winter Solstice Everyone! From today on, light is reborn!

Up until yesterday I did not know I was able to purchase photographic prints from the Library of Congress. So when I spied this image by Toni Frissell, I got very excited and bought a 16x20 print for myself. Merry xmas to me, I can't wait until it hangs on my wall!

We are currently being hit with our second snowstorm in 3 days. What better way to spend a Sunday so close to the holidays than tucked nicely inside with a warm wood stove and good movies? A hot beach in Barbados you say? maybe a close second...

Very soon I will find myself house sitting a glorious home in the city which excites me very much. It's an old limestone built in the 1800's that has been lovingly restored to rather indulgent tastes and after having dinner with the owner last night to go over the in's and out's, I'm really looking forward to enjoying the conveniences of city dwelling. Apparently everyone who lives on this street is a doctor, so if I get violently ill, I should be able to count on an old fashioned home visit. ;-)

I was thinking about purchasing this book recently, and as luck would have it the guy who does amazing work printing my images lent it to me. For any interested photo buffs or fans of Leibovitz, it's an easy read and rather enjoyable history of how she came to take camera in hand.

As of last night I have a new crush. Who was my last crush you might ask yourself?
Him. Mr. Javier Bardem (or Bar-YUM as I liken to calling him).
And yeah, he's still on, but last night's movie watching found me a new adorable one. I've heard his name many times, even seen a few snap shots and never took a second look until I watched him in this movie. Sure his character has a drug problem, but it's all in the way he moves, his eyes, his personality that I dare you not to blush a little at his obvious charm, (straight boys need not apply).

This Ontario boy's got charisma and it's worked me over.

I encourage you to listen to this song loud and dance around.

I have started and will continue to listen to cbc radio 2 'cause it's not all classical all the time like I thought. That's how I found esther by shortwave. If you're into finding new tunes, change your dial to cbc 2 and be prepared to be surprised by what you hear, (at least I was).

I'm almost finished reading The Witch of Portobello. I've read almost all of Paulo Coehlo's books, but I haven't found this novel as engaging as his others.

A friend lent me Season 1 of Damages and Season 2 doesn't come out until the new year which bums me out b/c this is a great show - very compelling. I recommend you have a go.

What am I eating? Everything. I'm especially fond of a soup I've been making called Ajo (Garlic Soup). It is oh so easy and really tasty too. Find the recipe below.

7 tablespoons olive oil
5 large garlic cloves, crushed (I used 3 large)
1 1/4 cups bread crumbs
2 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
4 cups mild chicken stock or water
2 eggs, beaten
6 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Heat the oil in a large saucepan over low heat. Add the crushed garlic and stir 1 minute. Add the bread crumbs and stir continually 10-15 minutes, or until they turn golden.Stir in the paprika and cayenne pepper. Pour in the stock or water and bring it to a boil. Cover and simmer very gently 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.Remove the pan from the heat and gradually beat in the eggs. Return the soup to the heat and heat gently to thicken the eggs, but do not boil. Stir in the chopped parsley and serve hot.
Serves 4.

Hi All

I've been AWAL around the blog house for a bit, (is there anyone out there who has noticed?) I ask b/c it's been VERY quiet on these pages for some time now. My dedicated readers (all 2 of you) seem to have disappeared at once. B, are you back from travels now? My blog(s) need you!

Anyway, I've been making myself frantic with the workload that has surfaced in my life over the past 2 weeks. It's good work, work that I want, but I couldn't seem to remember that as I stormed around and sat at the computer editing for what seemed like eternity. My back and neck started to ache, I wasn't outside much nor was I enjoying cooking, eating or seeing anyone. I just wanted to plough through it all and come out on the other side without any weird facial ticks.
Now that I have a bit of breathing room, I can only sit and ruminate how folks with kids and a busy work schedule lead happy lives. You must let go of a lot and learn to get a sense of humour fast while you drink yourself silly. I realized through this that I need much more practice at being the calm self I think I am, only when I'm much busier.

I reluctantly got this new cell phone that allows me to take videos that I wanted to share with ya'll here except I don't know how, or if I can. Stupid phone, with even stupider (I know that's not a word, but I'm annoyed), instruction booklet that gives you no instructions but just describes the meaning of the phone features.

So instead let me lead you to a little treat I found today. If you like animals, good photography or both, than please check out Sharon Montrose's etsy shop. And p.s. the porcupine made me laugh out loud so I added him to my holiday gift wish list. I must have him!

I just finished a yummy pumpkin scone that I made last night and thought I'd share some link love.

Days with my Father
a beautiful portfolio of images and writing (afterwards check out his phone sex series, there's at least one story in there that made me laugh out loud)

After I heard Blues of the Prairies yesterday on CBC, I went home and downloaded Oscar Peterson's album, Canadiana Suite which I listened to while baking. It's sure to please you, have a listen.

I made this soup and it was real tasty and zingy and super simple. Give it a go for the hungry bellies around your table.

Other things on my plate:
I have two client sessions this weekend and I'm a bit concerned about the frosty weather we're having this week playing havoc with my camera lens...hmmm.
It's my dad's birthday this Friday...Happy Birthday Dad! ♥
I'm thinking about bangs. Like maybe I should get some?
Oh, and I need money. Will you send some please? Thanks.

I just found this link in my inbox that I want to share, The Wisdom Project. I was intrigued to see an image of Andrew Wyeth, and found there were some thoughts on wisdom I agreed with, and a couple others not so much.

Yesterday I marched over to town to buy some local vegetables from our farmers market. The book I told you I am reading has deeply affected me to eat more locally and since last night I've decided I'm going to start making cheese. This new prospect both excites and delights me!

Later yesterday afternoon I found myself at a bazaar of the Grandmother Connection in one of the old churches in downtown Kingston where upon I saw and immediately bought the purse you see below. Understand, I don't own a purse, bags yes, purses no, but if I should ever own one, it's this little sweetie here. I love that it's pink, has a little snap on the inside and is felted (wool). The best part is 100% of the proceeds go directly to The Stephen Lewis Foundation and Help Lesotho.

Gotta run, the timer just beeped which means my bread is ready. I made two very nice ciabatto loaves today. Mmmmm warm bread.

Obama and ACDC are currently on top of the upper crust of what the collective "we" are presently enjoying. That means metal heads and then everyone else can breathe a collective sigh while we sit outside in sunny 15 degree (celsius) weather and smile at the confused may flies that dance around our head. Perhaps winter has already come and gone? One thing is for sure, a change has come, let's hope it brings great things for all of us.

What I'm Reading
If you believe at all in the old saying, you are what you eat, then this should be on your night stand. I'm using it as a handbook so I can move even further into eating everything locally be it from my own backyard or nearby.

What I'm Watching
A neighbour loaned me her box sets of seasons 1, 2 and 5. When I couldn't find 3 and 4 fast enough, I jumped straight to five. Good show overall.

What I'm Listening to
This song was brought to my attention from one of the episodes in six feet under. The women in the show sing it beautifully. I may like it more than siberry's version...is that fair considering it is her song?

What I'm Eating
This is not the recipe I used to make my own tapenade, but maybe if you say something nice I'll share it with you 'cause it is oh so good!

Hope you all enjoyed a spooky Hallowe'en. You can read a little about my lovely night on my photo journal by going to my website.

I found these two young Swedish ladies via another blog this w/e and wanted to share their obvious talent. If you haven't listened to First Aid Kit, here's your chance.
Enjoy.

I made a mad dash to the herbs sitting outside my door last night as wet snow fell from the sky threatening to destroy their use in my kitchen. I'm happy to say they are safely tucked away until I have a chance to repot them for indoor use, but I still have to ask, wtf is with the snowfall?
Thankfully I awoke this morning to no signs of it, but feel poorly for the souls northeast of our city who got hit with an amazing 10-20 cm. yuck. too early man, way too early. I remember many a wet and cold Hallowe'en when I was a happy trick-o-treater, but there certainly wasn't any snow. Come on!

What I am enjoying with the new blustery weather is the heat from our wood stove and having my desire to make warm tasty treats return. I'll soon pop out to the local natural food shop to get the fixings for a delicious and hearty breakfast cereal. If you lived nearby, I'd invite you over for a bowl it's that good, but since you can't you can find the recipe below. If you're feeling the homemaker love too, you will want to check out this recipe for donut muffins and then let me know how it tastes...I plan on making mine this w/e. And while you're stuffing your face full of goodness and want something to inspire, check out my new photo find here.

Enjoy!

Yummy Breakfast Cereal
8 c. large flaked oats
1 c. sunflower seeds
1 c. sesame seeds
1/2 c. flax seeds, sliced almonds and cashew pieces
3/4 c. oil (canola or peanut)
1/2 c. liquid honey
Bake together at 300F for 1 hour.

Add cranberries when finished baking.
*Also, if you like coconut or pumpkin seed, they're a good addition too.

It's been a good day.

It started off with a friend telling me he wants to buy this print from me. He has been my best patron yet, thanks Frankie, I enjoyed our discussion about art this morning.

Later I had lunch with a friend whom I haven't visited with in a long time. I felt peaceful listening to her stories about her new relationship with horses and she in turn provided me with some exciting inspiration on my portrait work that I look forward with anticipation to working on.

Afterward I spent time perusing photography related magazines which propelled me further into ideas and long held desires regarding my work. To sum up, I've been in a hovel of art infused dialogue/ideas all day... a precious, quiet place to exist as the day feels quite unlike any other.

I hope your weekend is centered around something which brings you peace and introspection.
♥K

We had absolutely beautiful weather for our Thanksgiving weekend and here are my October markers to prove it:
- a swim in the lake on October 12th (it wasn't freezing, but it was cold and refreshing)
- picked another container full of wild raspberries
- laid out on a blanket reading with no socks, short sleeves and shorts all afternoon
I'm still full from all the food and the waistline on my pants aren't being very forgiving. Needless to say it was a slow run this morning whilst I dragged along all of the turkey, salty and sweets I consumed.
Have a great day friends!

the magic of egg whites and an electric hand mixer

Today I have a new appreciation for egg whites and the electric hand mixer. I haven't done much baking where stiff egg whites are required. Whisking eggs whites in a bowl until they became stiff takes forever, and I don't have that much patience. My experience with an electric hand mixer is also limited simply b/c I've never had much use for one, I don't even know where the one in our cupboard came from. But today I wanted to spend quality time over my recipes for tomorrow's Thanksgiving feast to ensure a quality product and so out came the mixer.

Even though it doesn't always pay off, I am someone who typically doesn't spend much time reading labels if my task at hand looks logical and straight forward, which is why I had my hand mixer on its lowest setting for 5 minutes while I switched it between my left and right hand when they got tired. Then for whatever reason, divine intervention maybe, I looked down at the mixer and there on the handle read the numbers of its dial speed all the way down to #10 which read "egg whites". Tentatively, remember I haven't used it at a level 10 before, I slowly moved the dial and right before my very surprised eyes I had stiff egg whites in seconds! Wait a minute, should I be sharing this with you? It makes me sound like a bit of a dork, but I'm not hiding the fact that I'm a complete novice when it comes to electric hand mixers.

I gently folded the egg whites into my batter as instructed and witnessed their magic. They made it so smooth and silky that it simply poured itself into the baking pan. I suddenly thought of all the June Cleavers of the 50's with this magical new tool and how happy they all must have been at making this task so quick and easy. And the result? Minutes ago I took out of the oven a yummy sweet potato pie for tomorrow's meal. I can't wait to taste it.

The salad I'm making is a red cabbage with walnut and chevre - so so good. While slicing the cabbage I happened to notice the beautiful and almost psychedelic patterns of its insides. Check it out. (click it for a larger view)
I wonder if any of the many graphic designers whose I work I see online use food as a source of some of their inspiration? I can see its influence in their work.

Happy Thanksgiving! It's supposed to be a bee-u-tiful weekend with bright skies and warm temps. I'll be spending it at the cabin with good friends and family while we enjoy the garden harvest and drink copious amounts of wine.
Wanted to leave you with a spoof of Art Break for this holiday w/e. I remember watching the real art break as a kid, how about you?

P.S. Just had to write in and say I just picked a basket full of apples from a secret wild apple tree hidden away in my yard - yippee! Now I'm off to make apple tartlets!

some things to learn this week

Albert Einstein lost most of his Nobel Prize money in bad bond investments on Wall Street. (boston.com)

Chimpanzees can identify their acquaintances by looking at photos of their rear ends. (news.nationalgeographic.com)

Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling made $10.28 per second last year. (forbes.com)

John Lydon, a.k.a. Sex Pistols punk rocker Johnny Rotten, has filmed a British TV commercial for Country Life Butter (youtube.com)

October is National Sarcastic Awareness Month. Among the instructive examples cited by the Sarcasm Society:
" I have had a perfectly wonderful evening, but this wasn't it"
"It's always darkest before it turns absolutely pitch black" and
"I feel so miserable without you, it's almost like having you here."
(brownielocks.com/october.html;sarcasmsociety.com)

I had an absolutely sublime walk on the beach with my best girl (my dog) and my Hasselblad camera last week. We walked slowly, deliberately and mindfully through the wood chip trail on our way to Big Sandy Bay where upon we soaked in the mild weather and calm waters. I decided I didn't want to be afraid of my Hasselblad any longer and I'm so glad I took her out for a spin! Creating images through it requires mindfulness and so the almost empty beach and my patient walking partner were the perfect pairing to use up a roll of film.

Saturday we ventured to Taste of the County where we tried various wines and some unusual but tasty fair such as wild boar and chiptole and pepper chocolate bark, yum! And Sunday was spent at the cabin picking a honey container full of wild raspberries (can't believe they're still in abundance!), zucchini, tomatoes and squash from the garden and eventually, sitting quietly to soak in the silence, the trees and the exposed flat rock that sits along the perimeter of the island.

Later we returned home only to start watching Season Two of Six Feet Under. A friend lent me her dvd's of this show and we've fast become addicted to watching it every night for the past week. These dvd's are a treat when you're without cable or satellite.

Anything you've become a bit addicted to with the new season?

This week, the official beginning of Fall, I have felt the pace of my life slow right down, which is very welcome. Summer was frenetic all the way to last week and I was starting to feel concerned that perhaps this is what an adult life felt like. That this pace was the reason people feel stress and tension in their lives. I was in the thick of it and it didn't feel normal nor anything I wanted to sustain. But a peacefulness has gently covered this feeling with a long, light, white cotton fabric that allows me to sit more still and take in myself and my thoughts with more ease.

The ferry line up has been shortened substantially by the disappearance of summer only residents and it feels as though the rest of us have the island back to normal, back to ourselves. However this feeling is just a dream now b/c the dump trucks that consume the island gravel roads have stayed and aren't leaving any time soon. You will remember in early summer I was going through an emotional upheaval over the wind turbines that will soon enough be erected here. Since that time I have gone inward with my feelings. I no longer talk about it with anyone. I gave much of my energy and time with a group of concerned individuals (WIRE) to make this project safe and equal for everyone in our community, especially the wetlands and wild life, and although we slowed the process, it feels as though we have hardly made a dent.
Last weekend we drove through Lowville, NY on our way to Boston which has wind turbines that I have seen before. Without warning, the floodgates opened and some of the emotions I've kept under wraps emerged when I realized only too soon would our natural landscape be forever altered by spinning saucers on the horizon. They just kept coming and coming at us with every hill we descended. I felt invaded and had to shield my view as much as I could to keep from feeling nauseous.

When we returned home we had to discuss the possibility of moving off the island. We have no idea where we would go nor where we want to go. This has been our home for 13 years and there isn't anywhere else we want to be. But the fact remains that it just may be something we can't live under. That more than 86 of the largest wind turbines within a 6km radius, some of which will be close to our own backyard, is not how we choose to live in the country. And if and when we do move, it will be a quiet one b/c at some point you stop fighting, you internalize your feelings, and accept what's to be with a quiet sadness.

I went on a road trip to Boston this past w/e. While there I saw Gordon Lightfoot play at Harvard and visited with a buddy in Beverely, Ma. I stuck very close to home this summer so it was good to hit the highway and see some new sights. We stopped off at Lloyd's of Lowville diner in NY State on route which made me wish I had brought my camera along. Perhaps I like to romance the idea, but there is something about greasy spoons that brings out the desire to waitress in me. I left the booth I was sitting in for the last seat at the counter so I could lean back and people watch. It was early morning on a Friday so all the regulars had bellied up to the counter for their coffee, donut, eggs and bacon. The kitchen was entirely run by women and I relished watching the cook throw her eggs and hash browns on the grill while another made sure every old guy who sat down had a cup of joe in their one of a kind, thick Lowville Diner mugs. I sipped my green tea all the while imagining a photo essay on the history, customers and workers of this diner. To drive by you would easily miss it, but inside is a cacophony of smells and sounds that have proven longevity.

It was a beautiful w/e weatherwise and the scenery did not disappoint. I dined on lobster, corn bread and peach cobbler thanks to my buddy who served up a yummy meal in a park along the ocean front. Thanks Ry!
Saturday morning I went for a run in lovely Manchester by the Sea and later played frisbee oceanside on a big lawn/preservation area that was donated by the Coolidge family I believe back in the early 1900's. On the return home I made sure I stopped off at Trader Joe's, (man I wish we had them here!) and vowed to return one day to explore more of the obvious beauty this part of the world has to offer.

Highlights:
the stunning rolling hills and country side
taking the wrong exit and finding ourselves on back roads to discover some incredible old architecture in quaint towns
Lloyd's of Lowville diner!!!
watching Gordon Lightfoot enter the conert hall with a standing O
sitting on the rocks by the ocean
eating great food in a park
meeting new folks
Trader Joe's
lovely early morning run in a new town
fantastic breakfast smoothies made by Linda
listening to my friend Phil's hilarious stories about his experiences
driving alone in my car for a short outing listening to music along winding roads, getting lost and finding my way

I had a wonderful w/e with some friends at the cabin. The cabin's first party so to speak. There was good food from the garden, swimming, dancing, candle lights and a bonfire. We lucked out with an eerily calm day and night despite the rain and wind weather warnings. During the day I had many approach me and ask why not live permanently at the cabin?...It's off the grid, secluded and away from the impending wind turbines. The idea has certainly crossed our minds. I could give up my big old drafty farmhouse even though I do see its potential in every corner, we just don't have the means to renovate any time soon. The cabin is small and efficient and for this gal, it would be a welcome warmth from the clothing layers I tend to wear for half of the year inside my house.

Hmmm lets make a pro/con list shall we?

Pros to living at the cabin

Living amongst the trees

Living on the water

Efficiency - I would be toasty warm without much output

Small living quarters so easy and fast to clean and also renovating projects don't seem to insurmountable b/c of its size

Living off the grid!!!

No neighbours

Cons to living at the cabin

Very secluded on a private island could = loneliness

Would need a boat that could transport on the ice if lake freezes

Longer commute to the city

No neighbours

A 90 acre island could recreationally get a bit dull quickly, ie. no long bike rides or walks

These two lists have merit, but the real guts of the matter reside within me and its more than I can share within this space. The truth is there is nothing I would love more than living amongst the trees and water. When I am in this space, it feels closer to the truth of how I want to live. Collecting water from the lake, listening to the waves hit the shore, feeling a part of the cycle of nature rather than just a witness or a bystander.
Will I leave one island for another? Perhaps. I'll keep you posted.

Enjoy the day friends.

This is part of the kitchen at my friend's place, affectionately known as "the farm". The slight disorderliness of this kitchen is just about how my week has felt. My computer has been very very sick with a nasty virus and I've spent a few nights and most of today nursing it back to health which is why you haven't seen much of me on my photoblog. Thankfully, I think its temperature is back to normal now and hopefully we won't see anymore signs of that nasty bug(s).
How does this image make you feel?

I'm feeling a wee bit emotional about the change in season that is gradually happening before my very eyes and from what my body temperature is telling me. For one, it's dark between 7:30 and 8pm now. sheesh. What am I supposed to do with that? How am I to swim and ride my bike in the pitch dark? Do you have any idea what could be lurking in the water at that time of night?
I started my run this morning with cold hands. Cold hands! It's this impending idea of knowing that in short order my body will once again be covered in goose bumps for most of my day and I just can't look forward to that. I like walking around my house and sleeping sans garb and for the last three nights I've worn pj's b/c I insist on still keeping the windows open and it's a little chilly now at nightime. However, this does instill the notion of wanting a new fall wardrobe and that I can get excited about. I'm dreaming of wooly tights, skirts, soft warm sweaters and a new pair of boots and shoes!

But enough of my whining for now. Last night I made a really nice dish of fresh fava beans from my garden with onion, fennel and pancetta. It was so tasty I thought I would share the recipe. While enjoying this savoury dish, my oral senses were also being satiated with the tunes of this lovely.

Saute of Fresh Fava Beans, Onions, and Fennel

3 lb fresh fava beans shelled
1/3 cup olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
1 fresh fennel bulb trimmed, sliced
1 teaspoon fennel seeds coarsely ground with a spice grinder
1 1/3 cup canned low-salt chicken broth more or less
4 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1/2 cup chopped pancetta
1/2 teaspoon dried savory
2 tablespoon fresh lemon juices
alt to taste
Freshly-ground black pepper to taste

1.Cook fava beans in boiling salted water 2 minutes. Drain, cool and peel outer skins.2. Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and fennel bulb; saute 5 minutes. Add favas or lima beans and fennel seeds; saute 3 minutes. Add 1 cup broth and 2 tablespoons dill; bring to boil. Reduce heat; simmer 10 minutes to blend flavors.3. Stir in pancetta and savory, adding more broth if mixture is dry. Simmer until favas are tender, about 15 minutes longer.4. Mix in lemon juice and 2 tablespoons dill. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve warm or at room temperature. (Can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and chill. Bring to room temperature before serving.)

**I shelled my fava beans before I boiled them

What do you think could be hiding in such a small package? A phone? sewing kit? tape recorder?
Something so small it fits in your hand. How about this...






Is this not the coolest camera ever? Two things here, I've always wanted a great camera that fits in my pocket and one that also makes me feel like a spy, (I have a secret wish to be a spy). This little number fits the bill only the film is no longer being manufactured, however, I am going in search of perhaps another film type that may produce something inside this special camera.
Bit of history:
Designed by a Swedish engineer Magnus Niell. The Ensignette measures 3 7/8 x 1 7/8 x 3/4 inch when folded, taking negatives of 2 1/4 x 1 1/2 inches. It was the first all metal mass produced British camera and also used an entirely new film size.

From reading other blogs, I found a new interesting place to visit here. Specifically Fanny and Bill and this woman.
Her apartment makes me wonder what mine would look like if I lived alone. Probably not like this, but it's something to aspire to! ;)
Goes to show you you just never know what's happening behind a simple, plain door.

Hi All!
So now it's September, hmmm. Do you have any goals you're setting for the coming new season?
Awhile ago I applied for and recieved a partial grant to create a business plan. I've hired a small business coach and we met for the first time last week. I'm rather excited about meeting my specific targets, especially with someone on my side cheering me on, helping me plan and stay focused. I don't know about you, but I'm not always able to do what I set out to accomplish, especially when I'm not certain of the steps. But having someone who's overcome hurdles herself and come out with a successful consulting business gives me confidence in a positive outcome.
I've been doing lots of journalling to figure out how I can better reveal my true self through my portrait business...if I'm to have a business at all. Yes, it may come to that, but I'm okay with that possible outcome b/c it would mean I've searched deep and come up with the answer that is best for me as an individual and artist. But first, I'm working at going after what and who I really want to shoot and in what fashion. I can already feel it opening up secret locked doors with easy answers behind them. It all comes from me, and that fact is feeling less and less scary.

Have a beautiful day friends!

good things happening

- my cousin and buddy Scottie is becoming a first time father, possibly tomorrow, his birthday. Yay Scottie!
- I accomplished my first head stand in yoga class unsupervised this week: meaning I stayed up without support. Woohoo!
- a good buddy opened up her tickle trunk of old camera's last night and said "have at it". I can't wait to show you images of these old beauties, not to mention playing with them
- my morning runs are just that, running more, jogging less, and it makes me feel exhilarated and capable of more
- I'm soon going to be making something of all these pears in my kitchen. I'm thinking pear butter and pear jam or jelly. But most of all, sliced pear with some amazing stinky cheese. mmmmm.

Right now I am:
sitting in an office surrounded by the mini storm my boss likes to leave behind from a brief visit
stuffing my face with cheddar rice crackers
wearing a new ring I just made from a clear plastic bag that was not too long ago filled with dark chocolate almonds
wanting to leave work early
thinking about my yoga class tonight and hoping my body doesn't hurt as much as it did last week
thinking I need to listen to Radiohead after just reading rave reviews by two friends within a span of 5 minutes

around the yard

There is a bucket full of pears in my kitchen. This is from one tree and there's still more to be picked. I think I'll be doing some canning this season of pears, beans and tomatoes.

And then there's this little muffin head. Every time I'm in the kitchen, up she gets from her resting place waiting for something to fill her belly. She so dislikes her picture taken so I had to be quick and grab this one. She inevitably turns her head every time I position the camera in front of her and walks away. Here she still thought there was a chance I was going to give her a treat. After this it was game over. Is she not the cutest ever? Ilovehersomuch!There are men re-roofing next door and the tar fumes are everywhere. I even have a tar taste in my mouth. ewww

Tonight I am going to the theatre to see this movie. I can't remember the last movie I saw at the theatre it's been so long. I'll let you know the outcome.

I'm back. If ever so briefly. It's a bit hard, I discovered, being so very much away from civilization. Here's what I've been up to on my week's holiday so far:

swimming and more swimming
getting muddy with all the rain
eating fried green tomatoes
kayaking and getting swamped by waves just as I'm heading to shore
taking pictures of waves while in the water and being ever so careful not to fall with camera in hand
reading a novel of short stories by Joan Didion - she makes me feel a bit inferior
peeing in the grass or off the porch (there is no one around to witness this)
going for boat rides
playing cards

What are you doing?

Hank and Lily is the name of the duo who captivated me with their live performance this weekend.
This is their website. I didn't know anything about them before this w/e and still wonder if they are one of those bands who are best listened to live, so I can't say that what you'll hear is anything like what I experienced live. Essentially Hank appears on stage with goggles and a mask, and Lily with deer antlers while playing a saw that emits an eerie, yet wonderful sound. They pounded the outdoor stage after the sun went down and sang the song, Don't be Afraid. And honestly, I was a little afraid, but I edged closer to the stage just the same. I was spellbound by their odd looks, the crazy sound of the saw and most of all, the sound of Hank's voice behind his mask. It was definitely the highlight of the show. These two are not to be missed live.

On another note, we have had more lightning this summer than I think we've had in any 12 month period. It rains almost every day for no more than about 15 minutes, then the clouds move past and the sun shines brightly for the remainder of the day. The rain is no hassle b/c it doesn't stick around and has given us a great growing season. But as I write this up and see and hear lightning and thunder outside, I wonder where my cloud/lightning images are? Why haven't I taken any? hmmm.

Had a great day today in Prince Edward County. Went to The Inn on Lake on the Mountain and had a fabulous lunch of grilled portobello mushroom and goat cheese panini with spring salad. Later we rolled into quaint Bloomfield where I bought a blue and white mexican table cloth. Feeling a bit thirsty we then steered to one of the many wineries in this area. We stopped at Huff Estates for a glass of Pinot Gris and a very smooth panacotta while looking out over the grape vines. All of my senses were happily quenched by day's end.

I'm on holiday this week, so my presense here may be sparse!

Here I am delivering on my promise. Feast your eyes on this blueberry and peach cobbler. I would have shown a picture of the insides, but this guy was on his way to be consumed at a potluck. It was tasty and if you want to make it yourself, it's very easy. Here's how:
recipe from The Kitchen Diaries;

fruit:
ripe peaches - 3
blueberries - 3-1/2 cups
the juice of a lemon
natural cane sugar - heaping teaspoon
spelt flour - heaping tablespoon

crust:
spelt flour - 1-1/2 cups
a pinch of salt
baking powder - 2-1/2 teaspoons
natural cane sugar - heaping teaspoon
butter, cut into small pieces - 6 tablespoons
sour cream - 4 ounces

oven at 400ºF. mix flour, salt, baking powder, sugar and butter until it resembles breadcrumbs. slice peaches and toss with blueberries, lemon juice, sugar and flour; pour into shallow pie dish/tin. mix sour cream into crumb mixture. break off balls of the dough and flatten them lightly; lay them on top of fruit; dust with a bit of sugar. bake for 25 minutes until it is golden and fruit is bubbling.

*if your fruit is not sweet add more sugar.*

Things of late that make me happy:
- going to the grocery store and looking at the vegetables realizing I don't need to buy any b/c they're all in my garden!
- the amazing clouds we've had all summer long. they're big, puffy and many. it's a pleasure to have my head in the clouds
- last night's performance of the Hootenanny Review! It was a raucous, knee slappin' good time I tell ya! A performance from a guy and girl from Victoria whose name I still don't know, but will share when I find out...they were a hit with their unique sound and stage presence.

Enjoy, enjoy the weekend!

cornucopia

Has anyone else noticed the abundance of spiders this season? Must be from all the rain. I wake up every morning with a new bite, either from a spider or mosquito, which leaves me scratching in some not so appropriate places while in public if you catch my drift, and I think you do. The rain has made this a great growing season. My pear tree is brimming with goodness and my vegetable garden, well, it just shines. I've been gorging on fruit, berries mostly, all season. I put 'em in shakes, on cereal, in salads, or just shove them in my mouth, either way it's all good. Tomorrow I'm buying my first basket of peaches from which I'll share with you their transformation into some sweet concoction! Which reminds me, this is the first year my peach tree has produced any fruit. They're still apricot sized, and I don't think they're going to get any bigger, but I'm certain b/c I fed my trees this spring is why I'm being blessed with mucho frutas.
What seasonal foods have your tummy rumbling?

ps. I realize the image doesn't match the content, but I picked the image first and the rest came later. just so you know. ;)

the middle child

Sooooo. Crazy as it sounds, I have yet another blog to share with ya'll. If you go to my website you'll see I have a brand spankin' new splash page with two options. The second being a photo journal. I've been thinking on this awhile, adding a blog to my site. Many of the busy photogs I see online have a blog for clients and lurkers alike and I think it's a good marketing move. This way potential clients have an opportunity to see more than just what's on my site.
The downside? Blogging overload. This makes three. We'll see how it goes, but I may end up dropping a blog or two in the future. It has always been my desire to update my blogs regularly to maintain good web standing with my readers and lookers. And if I find one or more is in the corner collecting dust, I'll want to can it, 'cause otherwise what's the point?

back on the block

The office block that is. A good portion of my holiday was spent in the water. I've come to notice I'm not picky about water temperature for a swim b/c ultimately it's always refreshing. I love a dunk first thing in the morning to wash the cobwebs of sleep and wake me for the day ahead. The coolness of the water feels so amazing on my scalp that I lie back and surf the gentle waves and completely indulge. We had some wonderful lightning storms that allowed us to safely tuck ourselves inside for a game(s) of gin rummy. And yesterday the waves were high and plentiful making it difficult to move far from shore without getting pushed back in. I was watching others around me surfing within the waves and wanting so much to take pictures out there that I've decided my next task will be to find out how to achieve this. Any ideas are appreciated.
I was passed some amazing eye candy this morning that I want to share with you. Check this out. Then click gallery "global summer". After you've oohed and aahed there check out the rest of the site. Bill, I think you'll like some of the urban images. There's also some water images under the gallery "Books" that encourage me further to get a camera out into the water.
Enjoy!

away

Hey guys. I should have mentioned I'm on holidays this week so my appearance here will/has been sparse. But I'll be back to it next week! See you then.

waves, dragonflies and slugs

I had a fabulouso w/e at the cabin. I dove, jumped, splashed and sat in the waves that rocked the shoreline. I settled into the childlike activity of walking around in my bathing trunks scavenging for special treats left by nature and passing sailboats along the bay. On my third return to the sloppy waves, I came across a drifting dragonfly which I eagerly scooped up and brought to shore. I don't know about you, but I've never seen one still and up close. They're rather remarkable looking creatures, so intricate are its wings and eyes that are very big and cartoonish. I allowed it to dry outside and then proceeded to take its picture. I don't have a macro lens, so my attempt at focusing in on any of its detail was in vain. Later on in the day I was lying on a rock reading about a foot away from the water when I noticed a smaller slug like creature shimming across the many crevices of the rock floor looking perhaps for food or shelter. There was a slight breeze that repeatedly knocked this little guy off its foraging path and rolled him many times over. Without a complaint he would upright himself and continue plugging along the rock for what I'm sure amounted to The Badlands for this little guy. If this was not enough of a struggle, the waves crept further up the rock and submerged him under water. Thinking he was for sure a goner, I was happily surprised to find him poking around under water for food, a true testament that nature, although at times life threatening, allows us to adjust to the obstacles put in our path. Having the opportunity to watch the buzz of life around you is indeed humbling. If ever you feel stuck upon the pedestal of your own life, my advice is to get down really low, be still and pay attention to the movement all around you. As big as we may feel, we are yet a fraction of the pulse of life.

rolling thunder

Big old crashing mad thunderstorm here this late evening/early morning. It made me smile to hear it. It felt as though the heavens were raging and from my past few posts, you could say I've felt that same kind of rumble in my belly. I apologize if my posts have been a downer, however these are matters I am experiencing and to write about anything else wouldn't feel right. I have thought about working on my outlook about all of the change ahead. I've always told myself everything happens for a reason, and that I'm better off in the end for it. So I feel I must accept these same principles for the changes happening to the island. Somehow. And I realize that ultimately leaving the island isn't what scares me, it's the process of having to watch it change that hurts the most and what makes me attend meeting after meeting until I want to run screaming into the street. The thunder that woke me last night is symbolic of how I want "all of this" to come to an end. I want the movie ending where in the blink of an eye the antagonists wake up and realize their wrong doings only to make an abrupt 180 degree turn for the greater good of the land. However it plays out, I can still decide to live happily ever after. In the end it is my choice.

p.s. the above image is a stock image, not mine. and I promise to write something more cheerful next time!

L.I.F.E.

What do you value? After x amount of years spent living on this earth, what have you learned about what you value most? I feel I've had some big doors of truth open wide for me within the past three years due to personal and professional relationships. I know they won't stop coming my way, but now more than ever I feel I have been walking an extended treadmill of change, disillusionment and transition. What a test it is to witness how I internally respond to each situation. Am I wanting to flee, fight or sit still and quietly witness? How about a combination of all three?

Death is always present. My current experiences with wind turbines and their impact on my home, familial harmony and friendships are undergoing their own pattern of decay allowing me my own personal rollercoaster ride of emotions with no escape to the past or future to soothe my internal turmoil. My future feels uncertain. What I have always valued in my natural surroundings, my home and community is threatened and it leaves me wondering if there is any burrow or foxhole that feels safe.

So I have to ask myself what I value b/c ultimately bringing these things to myself will have an impact on my overall health and quality of life. I value connection with nature, people, my art and myself. I value conscious thought and attentiveness. I value the ability to be honest with ourselves, (not an easy task), and furthermore, I value the courage it takes to act upon that honesty.

I suppose I'm writing all of this to remind myself to have faith that experiences can be used for our greater good. That death is most certain and needs acceptance. And that ultimately change is the only constant and understanding this can make us so appreciative for what is present and what we are willing to manifest.

As silly as it sounds, it is a shock to find what has always existed for me to come to an abrupt end. This is where I understand the wisdom in the Buddhist concept of Impermenance. Early Buddhism declares that "in this world there is nothing that is fixed and permanent. Every thing is subject to change and alteration." According to the teachings of the Buddha, "life is comparable to a river. It is a progressive moment, a successive series of different moments, joining together to give the impression of one continuous flow. It moves from cause to cause, effect to effect, one point to another, one state of existence to another, giving an outward impression that it is one continuous and unified movement, where as in reality it is not. The river of yesterday is not the same as the river of today. The river of this moment is not going to be the same as the river of the next moment. So does life. It changes continuously, becomes something or the other from moment to moment. It is by becoming aware of it, by observing it and by understanding it, one can find a suitable remedy for the sorrow of human life."

good times

I very much enjoyed this past weekend for its simplicity and ease. Here is a short list of a few things I remember fondly:

* made blueberry muffins (I haven't eaten muffins in years but find myself caught up in the cuteness of muffin wrappers)
* went kayaking on reeds bay with a buddy
* went to a cottage for a b.day celebration, it was a lovely time
* ate antipasto and white pizza (yum!)
* didn't work on the computer at all (yah!)
* went for a lovely long stroll on my bicyclette
* pitched a very cool Polish-made orange and blue tent bought at a yard sale
* weeded one of the gardens in a light rain
* went for a long walk with my girl (my dog)

on the horizon

As many of you know I have been working with WIRE (Wolfe Island Residents for the Environment) for over a year now. As participating members WIRE's main concern with the impending wind turbine project is that our federal and local government put forth best practice when it comes to protecting our nationally designated Important Bird Areas, wetlands and grasslands. It has been a long battle to get correct policy in place. Unfortunately we are facing more personal environmental health concerns as we are learning about LaFarge's plans for creating a cement factory for the turbines. Please take a look and listen here, here and here. The last link shows some images of mine specifically to be used for this video.
It's tough not to get depressed over the impending change, but what makes it that much more worse is the complete lack of transparency and truth a project of this magnitude deserves. Like many others not thrilled with this project, I feel as though the comfort, serenity and support I have always felt from my community environment disintegrating and this leaves me very uncertain about my future home. To say I am distraught with the knowledge and information I have received throughout this long process is not an overstatement. I truly ache for the landscape and habitat that has humbled me time and time again for the past 13 years. If all else fails, perhaps there will be some solace in knowing I tried, we tried very hard.

treasures found

Thursday was a lovely day for me. The shoot I had that morning was postponed until the next day due to rain. I decided to head into town anyway and check out a few things. I'm a rare caffeine drinker, but this particular morning I treated myself to a Paris tea and blueberry scone. For those unfamiliar with Paris tea, I've been told its taste is similar to a Monk's blend. With my creamy, sweet blend in hand, I ventured into this lovely city. The images you see above are from a stop at a favourite antique shop. Years ago I was big into auctions and the occasional antique shop, but eventually the desire petered out until recently. After being at the family cottage I realized I wanted a side table reminiscent of the one that's there. The guy who runs the shop is great for getting into conversations about the history of pieces. I spied the bowl above, (I seem to be a collector of bowls) for an incredible price, so I snatched it up immediately. You can't tell from the image, but it has wonderful age to it. For reasons I don't recall I've had it in my head that I wanted bone handled silverware. I wasn't sure where I would find it until lo and behold the girls in the first image wagged their tails at me from a basket sitting on the floor. Happily, they came home with me too.

From early evening onward I spent a very lovely evening with a buddy on the island. We made a yummy meal, walked into the woods looking for her horse, biked to a swim hole and swam all the while admiring the incredible light on the expansive fields and sky above. To say it felt precious is not an overstatement. I biked home that night feeling incredibly lucky to share in this beautiful evening within this unique setting.

p.s. I added two new images to my website if you care to take a peek. They are the last images in galleries "big kids" and "family". I'm experimenting with new editing techniques that I'm really digging. Hope you like it too!

women in the wild

I've had a bit of an extended long w/e with my sistahs and also b/c of Canada Day (yesterday), so I'm finding it a bit challenging shifting into work gear, including blogging.
This is a montage I made up of my w/e with the girls. Spending time at the cottage with these two lovely women was peaceful and fun. We cruised bob's lake in a rental boat, swam, kayaked, yammered away, laughed, drank and ate VERY well. Even though it rained a lot, it didn't dampen (no pun intended, honestly) our good time. I enjoyed finding new nooks to sit in with every meal and watch the rain hit the lake from the cover of the screened porch. Thanks ladies, you were the perfect company to have at my very special getaway. I look forward to many more sistah times together and what experiences and laughter they will bring!

off to bob's lake

I'm off to the family cottage this w/e with my girlyfriends. Enjoy yours and behave...badly!

shake it, shake it baby

Just as I was about to leave for work this morning my ipod shuffled to this song which made me drop my bag and run into the living room to move and groove my bod. Not a bad way to start your day. So go on. Have a listen. You know you want to.

book worm

There are many activities that belong on my summer list and one among them is reading as many novels as possible. It doesn't get much better than sitting by the lake at the cottage reading a tale that transports you into another world. This w/e I found four books at a garage sale. I'm sure you've guessed one by now. Funny, I've never read the entire book of Alice in Wonderland and when I saw this old, colourful cover, I just had to have it. I opened the hard cover and there was this great handwritten inscription that said, "Andrew - All now is revealed! Love Mum"

Yes, Alice's story has been used in many psycho and philosophical contexts - I look forward to the journey.
As for the others they are: A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle, The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera and The Age of Grief, short stories by Jane Smiley. I've started two of them and before I even read the others I'm going ahead and recommending them all!

What's on your summer reading list thus far?

i ♥ sundays

Sunday morning I spent many hours in bed reading and watching the stillness of the lake from my comfy vantage point. The only reasons I untangled myself from my nest were to go to the loo, let my dog out and make myself some porridge. It was incredibly indulgent and sooo yummy. Sure did beat getting up and cleaning the house as I'm apt to do on Sunday's. Cleaning is such a waste of the pure, subtle qualities Sunday mornings lend themselves to be. "No more!" I cried out. Pick another day for scrubbing toilets and floors! Sundays are unique b/c they are languid, peaceful and in my opinion, feel like they stretch on and on. I'll take a Sunday over any other day of the week. They feel like the day everyone becomes human again, ya know? The partying is over from the early stages of the w/e and it's chill time. Be with family or be on your own and submerge into hedonistic living, if only for the day. As a kid we would often go for "Sunday drives" in the country, most likely after church (ugh!) and brunch (yay!). Remember when all stores shut down on Sundays? Few people worked on a Sunday. It was determined to be "family time" since there weren't any other options as there are now. Maybe it's one of the reasons Sundays seem to personify the meaning of nostalgia for me.

What do Sundays feel like for you?

look what the wind blew in

Feeling all twisted up, anxious, melancholy, a little lonely and overwhelmed by my surmounting List of things to get done. Not sure when this little emotional storm of mine blew in, but the shift in how I'm feeling leaves me unsettled. Even though I know my current state won't last, as of Monday, I've been wondering where "the good times" got to. Many of the items on said List have issues related to them that don't allow a simple phone call to get it taken care of. This annoys me as I like to complete tasks so they aren't left hanging over my head partially completed. Perhaps there's some planetary alignment shift that's causing me to unnaturally feel discombobulated? Regardless, a friend assured me that by Sunday at the latest, my disposition will indeed by sunnier. While I wait for Sunday to arrive, here's a little something to help put us all in a better mood...slide on over to here and take a listen to a friend's new favourite musician. Her voice is simply lovely.

P.S. Oddly enough, or perhaps more truthfully, the universe has once again given me what I have asked for...I think I may have found the photographer who took the image of the waves that I wrote about in my previous post. ☺The odd part is it's in a magazine I've never read before.

bits and pieces

Arghh! I'm being haunted by a photograph I saw online but can't remember how I came upon seeing it, and therefore can't find it, which means I can't have it. The image itself is so simple, yet it captivated me b/c it's something I see almost daily. It's a close up b&w image of waves. Not huge engulfing waves, but something you would see sitting in a boat or when in the water. It meant so much to me, I wish I had taken it. I MUST find it!!!!

On another not-so-desperate note, the weather here has significantly changed. One day I was wearing my black shawl, the next shorts and sandals. We are in the throes of substantial heat and from what I've heard, this is going to be it for the next 3 months. So adios slacks and sweaters and hello lightweight and carefree skirts and sleeveless tops!

Along with our new weather conditions I have been wanting a good book(s) to read. I've been a non-fiction maven for too long and need to get lost in a good paperback. I've just been informed that he has launched a new book. If you haven't read anything of his yet, you're missing out. His work is laugh out loud funny! I have read and recommend Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim and Me Talk Pretty One Day.

If you have any books to highly recommend, please do, I'm planning to stock up!

warm weather favourites

smelling the heat of the sun on your skin, going barefoot, the sound of the cottage screen door opening and closing, spring babies (of the animal variety), ice cream, light fabric billowing in a soft breeze, the scent of spring blossoms, the light, the tinkle of wood chimes, potlucks, eating fresh snap peas from the garden, going on a swing, afternoon nap in a hammock, watching butterflies, morning swim in the lake, picnics in the park, roadtrips, camping, gin and tonic, meeting friends on a patio, digging your feet in the sand, walking around the house naked, leisurely bike rides, meeting old friends, dirt roads, big straw hats, colourful fabric, strawberries that melt in your mouth, sandals, stinky armpits, favourite summer song, skinny dipping, watching a storm approach, bonfires, outdoor music festivals, theatre in the park, the colour pink, robin's egg blue, grass green, pale yellow, subtle red, trying something new, flying a kite, putting your hands in the dirt, waking up early with the sun, sky full of stars, the call of a loon, feeling the soft fur of my animals, playing euchre, watching my skin become brown, good surprises, outdoor showers, feeling moss beneath your feet, reading a great book.

Feel free to add some of your own!

training wheels

It's been awhile since I've last wrote about my yoga practice. The posture above is supported headstand, or in sanskrit, salamba sirsasana. I attempted my first assisted headstand two weeks ago and was surprised by my experience. Being upside down generally creates a bit of fear in many of us since it's not our natural state. Prepping for this posture is tougher than the actual full expression. Initially I felt a lot of pressure on the crown of my head, but once I was relieved of my legs being on the ground and moved them above my head, I felt completely weightless, as though half of my body ceased to exist - a very cool feeling!
Last week I "went up" again, but this time I didn't feel my instructor directly behind me as both legs went up which left me in a moment of panick, kind of like realizing your dad is no longer holding onto the back of your bicycle seat for the first time. She caught me just as I'm sure I would have had a crash landing, and for a brief moment I realized maybe I could have sustained it on my own. Class is tonight. I eagerly anticipate removing my training wheels.

she's no baby no more

"She's no baby no more" was a phrase coined by my Italian grandmother and used on me throughout my childhood by relatives who enjoyed pinching my cheeks and watching me squirm under their attention. And I am the baby, the youngest of twelve first cousins save for two of them. But today this phrase feels more relevant than ever b/c it is my birthday. Today I turn 35. Thirty-five. 3. 5. It's a marker, a turning point, as many numbers ending in 0 and 5 are in age. You know those questionnaires you fill out that have a check box next to your age category, well I think I just entered a new one: 35-40. Wow. I'm a bit stunned really. See, I always have been the youngest in most of my circles, be they work, friends, relatives, etc. But over the past year I have been reading about some talented people who are all younger than me, and it's a new experience, one I'm trying to adjust into, fidget a bit until I find comfortable seating, you know? Odd this growing older is. But I do like it. I don't wish to be younger for the growing I had yet to do. I've become so much more inwardly aware and I look forward to seeing myself flourish with the years.

I am celebrating with family and friends today. Lunch here with my family. Sushi for dinner and then happily off to The Grad Club to listen to one of my current favourite bands. I'm feeling very loved and lucky for the family and friends in my life who are taking the time to celebrate with me today. I woke this morning to fresh, handmade cinnamon scones, (one of my favourites) left on my doorstep from my buddy Dawn. How lovely is that?

As for the above image, it was taken on my birthday in 1979. I had a couple of b.day celebrations at McDonald's back then. Anyone remember the chocolate McCains cake they had? Ooh that was special! For those of you who don't know my mug, I'm in the front on the left. My sister is behind me, followed by my next door neighbour and two other friends who lived on my street.

So off I go now. I'm 35. I'm standing right smack in the middle of my 30's and there's only one way out. Nobody move, don't come a step closer, this is my territory for one year. Yup. I'm no baby no more.

letter to the wind

Dear Cool, Windy Weather,
Get Lost Already! In case you've forgotten, it is no longer March, but May. Perhaps you got confused and didn't realize it since they both begin with the same letter and all, but it is indeed May, going on June I might add. The flowers are in bloom, the trees have buds, yet I'm still in a jacket and long pants! Out for a walk the other day I wish I had worn long johns the wind was so ferocious. I'm about to lose my nut it's been such a long season of cold air. I desperately need to feel the heat licking my bare skin. Please go away cool windy weather, you've had your fun, and while you're packing your bags would you kindly turn on the heat before you leave?

paris beckons me

To know me is to understand I have always wanted to travel to Italy, live in Italy, play in Italy, eat in Italy, sleep, walk, laugh, love, cry...I want to do it all in that marvelous country. But lately, for some reason I have been inundated with reading about spring time in Paris wherever I look, and it's begun to seep into my very much reserved desire for Italy. Read it here first folks, I now want to go to Paris in the spring.
It all began rather innocently. I have a list of a few key blogs I read and soon one after another, several of them were leaving for trips to Paris or were writing about their year living in Paris. You can read about them here and here
A bit of a coincidence yes, and their stories and experiences left me breathless for riding my bicyclette toward the Arc de Triomphe, visiting and stuffing my face of the fine scents emanating from boulangeries and the creaminess found in their fromageries.
Every week I look forward to reading Saturday's Globe and Mail, and last week, without exception the first columnist I read is where? You got it!
How have I lived this long without understanding the relative importance of visiting Paris in springtime? To top it off, the other day a friend gave me a lovely wrapped gift and inside was a box of vintage postcards of this much loved city. I don't know what to make of it all but to say it seems the universe is conspiring to bring me to this obviously unforgettable place. I have a birthday just around the corner, perhaps the wind will gently blow a plane ticket neatly into my lap? C'est mon anniversaire souhait!

in good company

Victoria Day weekend was chilly and blustery in this part of the world, however the weather didn't alter the enjoyment of it one bit. There are plenty of things to write about my w/e, such as photographing a 7-day old, 5 lb, newborn baby boy, but the real enjoyment of this w/e started Sunday night.

A toasty warm cabin from a wood stove fed a few hours of euchre with good friends until the early morning hours. When sleepiness, (or maybe it was losing 5 straight games), finally beckoned us to bed, my body fell easily and heavily into unconsciousness. When morning dawned and the weather was still windy and cool, we sat back in our chairs, warm drinks in hand and watched the amazing surf outside. Having a southwest view means seeing no signs of civilization, and especially on windy days like this, you feel as though you're looking at the ocean rather than a lake. There is no electricity or water in this cabin. No cellphones or computers. There is instead buckets to collect water for washing, a propane stove for heating water, a small solar panel used to listen to music and an outhouse with a dutch door so that you're never without a view.

You would think cool, windy, wet weather would mire what is typically a sunny, warm long w/e, but somehow we found ourselves hoping we would get stranded inside this small abode only to continue enjoying the simplicity of doing nothing more than playing cards, sharing stories, reading mags, and taking a snooze. The pleasure came from having no agenda and being with old friends who appreciate slipping into "doing nothing". It was only one night, but when we eventually faced up to the fact that we had to return to our respective homes and responsibilities, it felt like we were away for much longer. I can easily say it was one of the best times I've spent at my cabin for the company, the weather, the games, and the escape from what at times feels like constant "doing". It was wonderfully relaxing and purely pleasurable. I hope to do it all over again soon.