Happy New Year to all my readers! It's hard to believe that this is the last day of 2010, or, if you prefer, MMX. For me, 2010 was a year marked by change. I won't go into detail except to say that 'all's well that ends well'. Or, more correctly, according to Shakespeare, 'all's well that ends well; still the fine's the crown; whate'er the course, the end is the renown'.
I'm looking forward to 2011 and all that it will bring. I wish all of you and yours a Happy New Year. May you, your family, and your year be filled with love and good health. For that's what happiness is ...
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Let the dog in, let the dog out
I have a fridge magnet with those words. At one time, it was funny. Holly, my bouvier, always wants to go outside and lets me know. I let her out and go back to what I was doing. Then, I hear her wanting back in. This gets repeated many, many times a day. It's no big deal. In fact, it's good exercise for me and keeps me from settling in one spot for too long.
But, when you have three dogs underfoot, as I do now while Margaret is away skiing for the week, it can get a little tedious. Especially when one of the dogs is a 15-year-old deaf, bichon frise that needs watching, even when outside.
It's fun watching the interactions between the three female dogs. Holly is, of course, the dominant dog here, thinking she owns the place. Mollie (mostly, a cockapoo) is a bit timid and carefully respects Holly. If Holly is lying in the hallway, Mollie is scared to walk by her.
Zoie, the bichon, is oblivious. She walks right by (and, sometimes, under) Holly. She just tries to get out of the way, if she sees Holly coming trotting along, so she won't get trampled. Being deaf, that doesn't always work if Holly walks over her from behind. Mostly, Holly is careful with Zoie. Maybe, even protective. She certainly has never shown any aggression towards her.
Holly is more aggressive with Mollie, especially if Holly thinks Mollie is where she shouldn't be. For example, up on my bed. That is definitely Holly's territory, or so she thinks. Once, while I was reading in bed, with Holly laying beside me, Mollie hopped up on the bed. Holly was up in a flash, snarling at Mollie. I never knew Mollie could move so fast, getting off the bed.
Happy tails to you ...
But, when you have three dogs underfoot, as I do now while Margaret is away skiing for the week, it can get a little tedious. Especially when one of the dogs is a 15-year-old deaf, bichon frise that needs watching, even when outside.
It's fun watching the interactions between the three female dogs. Holly is, of course, the dominant dog here, thinking she owns the place. Mollie (mostly, a cockapoo) is a bit timid and carefully respects Holly. If Holly is lying in the hallway, Mollie is scared to walk by her.
Zoie, the bichon, is oblivious. She walks right by (and, sometimes, under) Holly. She just tries to get out of the way, if she sees Holly coming trotting along, so she won't get trampled. Being deaf, that doesn't always work if Holly walks over her from behind. Mostly, Holly is careful with Zoie. Maybe, even protective. She certainly has never shown any aggression towards her.
Holly is more aggressive with Mollie, especially if Holly thinks Mollie is where she shouldn't be. For example, up on my bed. That is definitely Holly's territory, or so she thinks. Once, while I was reading in bed, with Holly laying beside me, Mollie hopped up on the bed. Holly was up in a flash, snarling at Mollie. I never knew Mollie could move so fast, getting off the bed.
Happy tails to you ...
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Presumptions
Have you ever assumed something was true and been wrong? I was caught in that predicament again today. I invited my friend, Vladimyr, over for supper, offering him my special lamb stew. I knew he loved lamb. I had a container of it in the basement freezer for just this occasion. Yesterday, I took it out of the freezer to thaw.
This afternoon, after he arrived here, I emptied the container into a pot to reheat the stew. Imagine my embarrassment when it turned out I had thawed a container of vegetarian bean/lentil stew. Ever the gentleman, he minimized my error, saying he was happy with the change in menu.
Lessons learned? Always label everything you put in the freezer. Looks can be deceiving. As Kathleen Hall Jamieson once said, the assumption that seeing is believing makes us susceptible to visual deceptions. Or, in my case, all stews look the same when frozen.
This afternoon, after he arrived here, I emptied the container into a pot to reheat the stew. Imagine my embarrassment when it turned out I had thawed a container of vegetarian bean/lentil stew. Ever the gentleman, he minimized my error, saying he was happy with the change in menu.
Lessons learned? Always label everything you put in the freezer. Looks can be deceiving. As Kathleen Hall Jamieson once said, the assumption that seeing is believing makes us susceptible to visual deceptions. Or, in my case, all stews look the same when frozen.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
A Distant Memory
Christmas flashed by this year. It may only be December 28th but it already feels like Christmas was a long time ago. Except for one thing: I still feel full. We certainly live in a land of plenty. At least, most of us do.
Today, while Margaret's away skiing for a few days, I drove out to Carman to visit friends. It was a great day for a drive, too: sunny and mild. Holly rode shot-gun with me. I had a wonderful lunch with Karen, visited Alex and Pam to wish them the best and drop off some books for them, and stopped in to see Denis and Gwen. I did go to the Coop to visit some clerks there that I know but they weren't around; instead, there were a bunch of young ladies learning to be cashiers.
All in all, a great day ...
Today, while Margaret's away skiing for a few days, I drove out to Carman to visit friends. It was a great day for a drive, too: sunny and mild. Holly rode shot-gun with me. I had a wonderful lunch with Karen, visited Alex and Pam to wish them the best and drop off some books for them, and stopped in to see Denis and Gwen. I did go to the Coop to visit some clerks there that I know but they weren't around; instead, there were a bunch of young ladies learning to be cashiers.
All in all, a great day ...
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Boxing Day
Yes, Christmas 2010 is now history and we're celebrating Boxing Day. I just did a Google search on "Boxing Day" and was surprised at how wrong I was as to its meaning. I won't spoil your fun; I'll let you do the same search and find out for yourself. You'll discover some interesting trivia along the way.
I suppose the shopping malls will be packed today with people searching for bargains and spending all those gift cards that came their way yesterday. I won't be among the crowds today. I can wait until sometime in January when the dust settles again. I've had my fill of shopping and crowds lately (it doesn't take much with me).
So, what am I going to do today? Maybe, do the dishes, wash some laundry; maybe, even vacuum. Then again, I may just finish that book I started just before Santa came down the chimney. Such an exciting life I live.
I suppose the shopping malls will be packed today with people searching for bargains and spending all those gift cards that came their way yesterday. I won't be among the crowds today. I can wait until sometime in January when the dust settles again. I've had my fill of shopping and crowds lately (it doesn't take much with me).
So, what am I going to do today? Maybe, do the dishes, wash some laundry; maybe, even vacuum. Then again, I may just finish that book I started just before Santa came down the chimney. Such an exciting life I live.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Merry Christmas!
One more sleep and it will be Christmas. It's almost hard to believe that it's already Christmas Eve. Where did the time go? And, no, I'm not quite ready. I have a few last minute things to do before I head over to Margaret's with supper. I just returned from Sushi Park with an interesting variety of items for our supper. Not quite the Italian feast of seven fish but there is some seafood in the mix.
After supper, Marg and I plan to attend the Christmas Eve service and listen to the choir at Charleswood United Church. Then, we'll return to her place to open our gifts and to get a few more things ready for tomorrow. On Christmas Day morning, I'll be heading out to LaSalle to have brunch and open gifts with my family. Later, I'll head back to Margaret's to help her finish preparing dinner for her family, coming in from the Portage area in the afternoon.
I'm not sure who all will be reading this post but I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy holiday.
After supper, Marg and I plan to attend the Christmas Eve service and listen to the choir at Charleswood United Church. Then, we'll return to her place to open our gifts and to get a few more things ready for tomorrow. On Christmas Day morning, I'll be heading out to LaSalle to have brunch and open gifts with my family. Later, I'll head back to Margaret's to help her finish preparing dinner for her family, coming in from the Portage area in the afternoon.
I'm not sure who all will be reading this post but I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a safe and happy holiday.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Gratitude to the Farmers of the World
We are so fortunate to live in Canada. There is so much to be thankful for in our daily lives. The other day, while at my local Safeway, I was wandering through the produce area, looking at all of the fresh fruits and vegetables from all over the world.
Although we get most of our standard vegetables from Manitoba farms located within one hundred miles of the city, these vegetables are supplemented during the winter from the US, Mexico and several South American countries. Similarly, most of our fresh fruit comes from these countries and even from several Asian countries.
During the summer, I can go out to the backyard and pick a handful of fresh, sweet raspberries from the garden. But, now, while the garden is under a foot or so of snow, I can still have a bowl of raspberries and milk for dessert simply by picking up a package at the supermarket.
It's really amazing how lucky we are to be able to purchase the produce from farmers worldwide.
Although we get most of our standard vegetables from Manitoba farms located within one hundred miles of the city, these vegetables are supplemented during the winter from the US, Mexico and several South American countries. Similarly, most of our fresh fruit comes from these countries and even from several Asian countries.
During the summer, I can go out to the backyard and pick a handful of fresh, sweet raspberries from the garden. But, now, while the garden is under a foot or so of snow, I can still have a bowl of raspberries and milk for dessert simply by picking up a package at the supermarket.
It's really amazing how lucky we are to be able to purchase the produce from farmers worldwide.
Happy Winter, everyone!
It feels strange wishing everyone a Happy Winter. It has been "winter" here in Winnipeg for many weeks already. And, the snow last night didn't help. On this, the shortest 'day' of the year, I thought I'd post a photo I took last July (about a month after the summer solstice, when I was probably complaining about the heat!).
Perhaps, it'll make you think of warmer, sunnier days when the flowers are blooming in profusion in your garden. It really won't be long before ours days do get brighter and warmer. After all, from today forward, each 'day' will get slightly longer.
Perhaps, it'll make you think of warmer, sunnier days when the flowers are blooming in profusion in your garden. It really won't be long before ours days do get brighter and warmer. After all, from today forward, each 'day' will get slightly longer.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Suffering from a cold?
Colds are circulating everywhere these days. I know because I've had one for about a week. My symptoms have been a cough, sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, and general fatigue. Colds are supposed to last for about a week or so and then disappear. If that's true, I'll be fine by Christmas Day. I hope so because I certainly don't want to spread it to others in my family.
I know that most 'cold remedies' don't work. It's a virus and there are no anti-virals for the common cold viruses. But, that hasn't stopped me from trying different things to minimize the symptoms.
I've been drinking lots of liquids, including orange juice (and, yes, coffee), taking my vitamins, taking a Tylenol to help sleep better, and using a cough syrup to ease my sore throat. I also tried NeoCitran as a hot drink. Some people like it; I don't. I'd rather drink a more palatable cup of tea.
I am definitely getting better. Funny how time cures most things, including the common cold. Good thing because there are now only five more sleeps before Christmas.
I know that most 'cold remedies' don't work. It's a virus and there are no anti-virals for the common cold viruses. But, that hasn't stopped me from trying different things to minimize the symptoms.
I've been drinking lots of liquids, including orange juice (and, yes, coffee), taking my vitamins, taking a Tylenol to help sleep better, and using a cough syrup to ease my sore throat. I also tried NeoCitran as a hot drink. Some people like it; I don't. I'd rather drink a more palatable cup of tea.
I am definitely getting better. Funny how time cures most things, including the common cold. Good thing because there are now only five more sleeps before Christmas.
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Only six more sleeps ...
... and, it will be Christmas! All of a sudden, it's almost Christmas. Wow! It's really hard for me to believe. The weeks leading up to now sure went by fast. It seemed like it was always so far in the future that I hardly thought about it. At least, I'm ready for it this year.
This week, all I have to do is make sure the larder is well stocked, wrap a couple of small presents, tidy up around the house (actually, that could take some time!), do some baking, and make sure I iron a few clothes for times when people visit and for times when I go visiting. Hmmm ... maybe, I'm not as ready as I think.
The funny thing is that I know Christmas Day will go by very fast. I also know that I will eat way too much because there will be so much good stuff around. That happens every year. Then, the malls will be teeming with crowds of people looking for Boxing Week bargains. Remember when the sales were limited to just Boxing Day? Hah! I remember when the stores were closed on both Christmas and Boxing Day!
I suppose what I look least forward to is that long January/February stretch of winter when Winnipeg gets extremely cold and experiences one or two serious blizzards. By the end of March, we'll really be eager for some milder weather and the first hints of spring.
Well, more than enough said ... guess I'll just go and get some sleep now.
This week, all I have to do is make sure the larder is well stocked, wrap a couple of small presents, tidy up around the house (actually, that could take some time!), do some baking, and make sure I iron a few clothes for times when people visit and for times when I go visiting. Hmmm ... maybe, I'm not as ready as I think.
The funny thing is that I know Christmas Day will go by very fast. I also know that I will eat way too much because there will be so much good stuff around. That happens every year. Then, the malls will be teeming with crowds of people looking for Boxing Week bargains. Remember when the sales were limited to just Boxing Day? Hah! I remember when the stores were closed on both Christmas and Boxing Day!
I suppose what I look least forward to is that long January/February stretch of winter when Winnipeg gets extremely cold and experiences one or two serious blizzards. By the end of March, we'll really be eager for some milder weather and the first hints of spring.
Well, more than enough said ... guess I'll just go and get some sleep now.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Turning Over a New Leaf
When you decide to do something different to change your life for the better, you are turning over a new leaf. As 2011 approaches, I, like most people, start to think about New Year's resolutions.
Over the years, I've made many New Year's resolutions. Besides the fact that I never followed through with most of them, I've noticed that, as I got older and older, I made fewer and fewer of these resolutions.
Did you know that studies have been done of this subject and that fewer than 12% of the people studied kept their resolutions? These people who did keep their resolutions, for the most part, looked on their resolutions as goals for the year.
I have, in the recent past few years, written down my goals for the year. Doing so certainly helped me to reach some of them. During the year, I would review my goals and see how I was doing. Some goals were reached; others were revised; others were not achieved.
So, for 2011, I resolve not to make any foolish New Year's resolutions. I certainly have some personal goals for 2011. But, I won't be talking to anyone about them. I'll just monitor my progress quietly and see how I do. It worked well for me in 2010 so, maybe, it'll work well for me in the coming year.
You've got mail!
These days, I rarely get snail mail, unless it's a bill. The norm is email and instant messaging. But, recently, I got a Christmas card, with enclosures, from my cousin, Barb. She always sends me a card at this time of year. In fact, I think I've gotten one from her for every year since I last saw her. And, that was about 30 years ago.
This year, the card was even more special because it included both her Christmas letter and some special black and white photos.
Two of the three photos were of my mom and dad, taken in Toronto in 1940. The third was of mom and dad plus dad's sisters, May and Bernice. I will treasure all of these pictures.
Thank you so much, Barb.
This year, the card was even more special because it included both her Christmas letter and some special black and white photos.
Two of the three photos were of my mom and dad, taken in Toronto in 1940. The third was of mom and dad plus dad's sisters, May and Bernice. I will treasure all of these pictures.
Thank you so much, Barb.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Book Marks
Most people know that I read a lot of books. I probably average two books a week. What you might not know is that I can also go through a lot of book marks in year.
I used to buy most of my books from McNally-Robinson Booksellers, here in the city. Every book that I bought came with a McN-R book mark. With retirement came a tighter budget. That meant relying more and more on the local library.
Carman had a nice little library, housed in the old post office building. I really enjoyed going into this heritage building and dealing with the wonderful people that worked there.
When I lived in Carman, it didn't take too many years before I exhausted their supply of really interesting books.
Now that I live in Winnipeg, there's no shortage of library books to read. Even my local branch, here in Charleswood, is replete with great books. I can still get book marks from the library but, mostly, I just use special book marks that were given to me over the years by friends.
I used to buy most of my books from McNally-Robinson Booksellers, here in the city. Every book that I bought came with a McN-R book mark. With retirement came a tighter budget. That meant relying more and more on the local library.
Carman had a nice little library, housed in the old post office building. I really enjoyed going into this heritage building and dealing with the wonderful people that worked there.
When I lived in Carman, it didn't take too many years before I exhausted their supply of really interesting books.
Now that I live in Winnipeg, there's no shortage of library books to read. Even my local branch, here in Charleswood, is replete with great books. I can still get book marks from the library but, mostly, I just use special book marks that were given to me over the years by friends.
All Thumbs
Why is it that we men have such a hard time wrapping Christmas presents? Sure, we can wrap them. But, they never look like they were wrapped right. Our gift wrapping never really looks 'good'.
Maybe, that's why gift cards are so popular these days. You stick it in a Christmas card, write a short note, stick the card in an envelop, and hand the present over on Christmas morning.
Gift cards work well with teenagers. They always want to go and get what they want. Of course, that would never work with your 'significant other'. Try a give card there and, next thing you know, you're in the dog-house.
Hope you all get what you wish for this Christmas and that it comes nicely wrapped!
Maybe, that's why gift cards are so popular these days. You stick it in a Christmas card, write a short note, stick the card in an envelop, and hand the present over on Christmas morning.
Gift cards work well with teenagers. They always want to go and get what they want. Of course, that would never work with your 'significant other'. Try a give card there and, next thing you know, you're in the dog-house.
Hope you all get what you wish for this Christmas and that it comes nicely wrapped!
Christmas Greetings from a Friend
Today, I received the following Christmas greeting from a photographer friend, named Carlos Vieira, in Rio de Janeiro. It was so charming, I thought I'd quote it, in its entirety, here:
"I wish that this Christmas, I could put a tree on my hearth and there hang, instead of balls, the names of all my friends. Friends from far away, near friends. The old ones and the new ones. Those that I see everyday and those that I seldom see. Those always remembered and those that sometimes are forgotten. Those from the difficult times and those from the happy hours. Those that, not wishing at all, I hurt, or those that also not wishing, hurt me. Those that I know deeply and those that I know only by their appearance. Those that owe me very little, and those that I owe a lot. My humble friends and my important friends. The names of all that passed through my life. A tree with very deep roots so that their names shall never be torn from my hearth. With very long branches so that new names coming from all parts may join the existent. A tree with a very nice shadow to wrap all of us this Christmas".
"I wish that this Christmas, I could put a tree on my hearth and there hang, instead of balls, the names of all my friends. Friends from far away, near friends. The old ones and the new ones. Those that I see everyday and those that I seldom see. Those always remembered and those that sometimes are forgotten. Those from the difficult times and those from the happy hours. Those that, not wishing at all, I hurt, or those that also not wishing, hurt me. Those that I know deeply and those that I know only by their appearance. Those that owe me very little, and those that I owe a lot. My humble friends and my important friends. The names of all that passed through my life. A tree with very deep roots so that their names shall never be torn from my hearth. With very long branches so that new names coming from all parts may join the existent. A tree with a very nice shadow to wrap all of us this Christmas".
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Soup Season
Yesterday, while watching Michael Smith on 'Chef at Home', I decided to make a split pea soup that he demonstrated. With the cold weather we've been having lately, a soup sounded pretty good to me. So, this morning, I took out a package of frozen bacon to thaw. It, with onions, carrots, thyme, and bay leaves, will be the flavour base for the soup. He used split green peas but I only have yellow on the shelf so I'll just use what I have. A nutritious soup and salad for supper, coming right up!
Today, I also hope to run a few errands. It's been awhile since I've been anywhere but here at home so I'm looking forward to getting out. I'm actually looking forward to doing a bit of grocery shopping and picking up a couple of small gifts that I still need to get for Christmas. As someone pointed out to me recently, there are only ten days left before Christmas!
Today, I also hope to run a few errands. It's been awhile since I've been anywhere but here at home so I'm looking forward to getting out. I'm actually looking forward to doing a bit of grocery shopping and picking up a couple of small gifts that I still need to get for Christmas. As someone pointed out to me recently, there are only ten days left before Christmas!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
What to make for supper?
Tonight, I think I'll make a variation of my Chinese comfort food dinner. Pass on the chicken this time. Maybe, a spicy shrimp dish instead, to go with the coconut rice and veggie stir-fry? Thinking about that makes me salivate so that's what it'll be!
I must be getting over my cold if real food is starting to appeal to me again. To all of you out there who are bleary-eyed, sniffling and coughing, take heart: it'll be over soon ...
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Gratitude
A popular theme these days amongst Flickr photographers is "30 days of gratitude". Each day, the photographer posts an image, with text, about something they're grateful for in their lives. The 'things' people express their gratitude for is interesting.
Some things you would expect; some you wouldn't. They include health, family, husbands, wives, children, grandchildren, friends, veterans, pets, simple pleasures, sunny skies, comfort, good memories, vacations, worthwhile endeavours, patience, a sense of humor, cameras, creativity, employment, books, trees, flowers, soup, coffee, chocolate, hot chocolate, hopes, dreams, and thoughtfulness. The list is almost endless.
The most frequent things people are grateful for, as you might expect, are spouses, family, and friends. And rightly so.
As Thomas Merton (the writer, thinker, and Trappist monk) once said, "gratitude takes nothing for granted, is never unresponsive, is constantly awakening to new wonder and to praise of the goodness of God".
Some things you would expect; some you wouldn't. They include health, family, husbands, wives, children, grandchildren, friends, veterans, pets, simple pleasures, sunny skies, comfort, good memories, vacations, worthwhile endeavours, patience, a sense of humor, cameras, creativity, employment, books, trees, flowers, soup, coffee, chocolate, hot chocolate, hopes, dreams, and thoughtfulness. The list is almost endless.
The most frequent things people are grateful for, as you might expect, are spouses, family, and friends. And rightly so.
As Thomas Merton (the writer, thinker, and Trappist monk) once said, "gratitude takes nothing for granted, is never unresponsive, is constantly awakening to new wonder and to praise of the goodness of God".
Brr ...
As I write this, (very) early Sunday morning, it's -28C outside, with a windchill of -38C. Yes, Martha, that's really cold! To make matters worse, I'm typing this while sipping on my cup of NeoCitran. Yes, I now have a bit of a cold.
Margaret and I joined her sister Cathy and her husband Ian and their three daughters on Friday night to celebrate their 22nd wedding anniversary at The Peasant Cookery. We shared some very good food and fellowship, in spite of the cold weather. And, last night, Margaret came over to my place and cooked up an equally great meal for just the two of us. Margaret is just getting over her cold so was feeling quite perky after five days of low energy. Me, I'm just starting down that road. But, I was certainly glad for her company.
Today, as my energy slowly ebbs away, I can think of nothing finer than a series of drinks of coffee, hot chocolate, and NeoCitran, as I read in a warm, comfortable bed. Maybe, a hot toddy, too. A little mix of tea, whiskey, lemon, and honey sounds pretty good right now.
Margaret and I joined her sister Cathy and her husband Ian and their three daughters on Friday night to celebrate their 22nd wedding anniversary at The Peasant Cookery. We shared some very good food and fellowship, in spite of the cold weather. And, last night, Margaret came over to my place and cooked up an equally great meal for just the two of us. Margaret is just getting over her cold so was feeling quite perky after five days of low energy. Me, I'm just starting down that road. But, I was certainly glad for her company.
Today, as my energy slowly ebbs away, I can think of nothing finer than a series of drinks of coffee, hot chocolate, and NeoCitran, as I read in a warm, comfortable bed. Maybe, a hot toddy, too. A little mix of tea, whiskey, lemon, and honey sounds pretty good right now.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Flickring
Today, like many days, I spent a lot of time (too much?!) looking at photographs on Flickr. Maybe, there should be a Flickr Anonymous group for people like me, addicted to looking at images? I do it because I enjoy it but I know I could be doing more productive things (e.g., making my own images).
All this looking at Flickr images has given me many ideas on ways to photograph 'things'. Mainly, still life images. This is an area of photography I've more-or-less neglected over the years but that I now want to involve myself in more.
Still life photography is usually the depiction of a small grouping of objects. It gives the photographer considerable leeway in the arrangement of design elements within a composition. It also allows one to play with the lighting on the these elements. It also means you have to collect and assemble the props you want to use and you have to set them up on an appropriate surface.
If you , like me, have collections of various things, you probably have all the props you need. I certainly have lots of "things" around the house to use. I could also make some interesting still life images using fruits, vegetables, or other foods. Surfaces on which to place these objects are another matter. I'm still thinking that problem through.
Now that winter is here and outdoor photography is more of a physical challenge, I'm looking forward to making still life images in the comfort and warmth of my home. And, yes, some of those future images will appear here. Actually, you've probably already noticed that a few of my still life images have appeared here already. Hopefully, in the future, I'll be able to post more and better images.
All this looking at Flickr images has given me many ideas on ways to photograph 'things'. Mainly, still life images. This is an area of photography I've more-or-less neglected over the years but that I now want to involve myself in more.
Still life photography is usually the depiction of a small grouping of objects. It gives the photographer considerable leeway in the arrangement of design elements within a composition. It also allows one to play with the lighting on the these elements. It also means you have to collect and assemble the props you want to use and you have to set them up on an appropriate surface.
If you , like me, have collections of various things, you probably have all the props you need. I certainly have lots of "things" around the house to use. I could also make some interesting still life images using fruits, vegetables, or other foods. Surfaces on which to place these objects are another matter. I'm still thinking that problem through.
Now that winter is here and outdoor photography is more of a physical challenge, I'm looking forward to making still life images in the comfort and warmth of my home. And, yes, some of those future images will appear here. Actually, you've probably already noticed that a few of my still life images have appeared here already. Hopefully, in the future, I'll be able to post more and better images.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Christmas is Coming
Our Christmas tree is decorated. The gifts are wrapped (well, most of them, anyways) and under the tree. There's at least a foot of snow on the ground. More and more sale fliers and coupons are being dumped in the mail-box daily. Some Christmas cards and letters have come in the mail. All the radio stations seem to be playing Christmas music. Recipes are being reviewed and selected for the big dinner.
Hmmm ... I guess that Christmas must be getting close.
Hmmm ... I guess that Christmas must be getting close.
Looking Below the Surface
Often, we don't take time to look below the surface. While visiting my friend, Vladimyr, last weekend, I was looking at his ude for a few minutes while he was in his kitchen, making a pot of coffee. I noticed that there seemed to be some paper strips with writing on them in the area below the sound hole or mouth of his ude. Having my pocket camera handy, I took a shot of the sound hole (unbeknown to Vladimir) and, later at home, was able to better see the writing through the grid. It gave the address of the ude maker in Istanbul written on thin strips of paper glued to the bottom of the sound chamber.
By email the next day, I asked Vlad if he knew what was written inside his ude. He was totally shocked and thoroughly impressed that I might know that there was something there. I haven't told him yet how I knew this. Sometimes, it's good to keep Vlad guessing and impressed with my knowledge. The point of all this is that, sometimes, it's good to look below the surface, whether you're observing something or someone. You might, as I did, learn something new.
On the other hand, I suppose there are times it might be best not to look below the surface. You might be angered, disappointed, saddened, or even disgusted with what you see. I know, for example, that I really don't want to lift up my carpeting and see what has been deposited there over the past 20 odd years. Someday, when I change the carpeting, I'll leave that 'joy' to the carpet people. And, I'm sure I don't want to know what's below the surface of some of the nasty people I've met over the years because, from what I have already seen, I suspect I would like them even less than I already do.
But, with some other people, I look forward to getting to know them better. From what I've seen so far with these wonderful people, I expect I'll like them even more than I do now when I learn more about them.
By email the next day, I asked Vlad if he knew what was written inside his ude. He was totally shocked and thoroughly impressed that I might know that there was something there. I haven't told him yet how I knew this. Sometimes, it's good to keep Vlad guessing and impressed with my knowledge. The point of all this is that, sometimes, it's good to look below the surface, whether you're observing something or someone. You might, as I did, learn something new.
On the other hand, I suppose there are times it might be best not to look below the surface. You might be angered, disappointed, saddened, or even disgusted with what you see. I know, for example, that I really don't want to lift up my carpeting and see what has been deposited there over the past 20 odd years. Someday, when I change the carpeting, I'll leave that 'joy' to the carpet people. And, I'm sure I don't want to know what's below the surface of some of the nasty people I've met over the years because, from what I have already seen, I suspect I would like them even less than I already do.
But, with some other people, I look forward to getting to know them better. From what I've seen so far with these wonderful people, I expect I'll like them even more than I do now when I learn more about them.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Chicken Soup Helps Fight a Cold
That's what my mom used to tell me and that's what I tell everyone who is fighting off a cold. So, today, learning that Margaret is battling a cold, I decided to make chicken soup. Sort of a chicken vegetable and noodle soup, with lots of savory spices, so she'll be able to taste it. Knowing also that she's probably already 'given' her cold to me, the soup is intended to build up my resistance to those nasty germs also.
How about you? Do you believe chicken soup fights colds?
How about you? Do you believe chicken soup fights colds?
"So Busy"
How often do we hear these words from people we know? Everyone seems to be 'so busy' these days. It makes me smile when I think of that famous anonymous quote, "Leonardo Da Vinci accomplished amazing things ... of course, back then, there were 24 hours in a day".
There are all sorts of reasons why we are 'so busy'. Sometimes, we don't learn something and have to relearn how to do it, over and over. Sometimes, we choose the 'wrong' things to work on; we lose sight of the priorities in our lives. Sometimes, we do more and more because everyone expects it of us. Then, we get overloaded and get less done. We often say 'yes' to everyone about everything. Have we forgotten to say, 'sorry, no'? I know one of my problems is I have too much 'stuff and things', each of which requires maintenance time, if only dusting and putting putting it away after I use it. Much of the higher tech stuff also requires that I learn how to use it. That takes time if only because I'm a slow learner.
There is an old proverb somewhere that says, "to accomplish more, do less". So, I'm working on that, among many other things, right now ...
There are all sorts of reasons why we are 'so busy'. Sometimes, we don't learn something and have to relearn how to do it, over and over. Sometimes, we choose the 'wrong' things to work on; we lose sight of the priorities in our lives. Sometimes, we do more and more because everyone expects it of us. Then, we get overloaded and get less done. We often say 'yes' to everyone about everything. Have we forgotten to say, 'sorry, no'? I know one of my problems is I have too much 'stuff and things', each of which requires maintenance time, if only dusting and putting putting it away after I use it. Much of the higher tech stuff also requires that I learn how to use it. That takes time if only because I'm a slow learner.
There is an old proverb somewhere that says, "to accomplish more, do less". So, I'm working on that, among many other things, right now ...
Birthday Bling
My grand-son, Alex, celebrated his third birthday last Saturday. His mom and dad invited some friends and relatives, with their kids, to come over for the party. I, of course, came over with my camera. It was a chance to see their newly-built home and all of them. And, to add to my growing photo record of Alex. I took dozens of shots but this is my favorite of the bunch:
In this photo, Alex is responding to the question his Uncle Mike asked, "how old are you now, Alex?" Three fingers were raised, with a hint of a smile.
In this photo, Alex is responding to the question his Uncle Mike asked, "how old are you now, Alex?" Three fingers were raised, with a hint of a smile.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Hallelujah
For my Christian family and friends, I recommend checking out this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXh7JR9oKVE
Hundreds of unsuspecting shoppers got a big surprise while enjoying their lunch at a food court. Over 100 participants sang the Hallelujah Chorus in this awesome performance on YouTube. If this doesn't put you in the Christmas mood, nothing will.
For my non-Christian family and friends, I hope you have a great day.
Hundreds of unsuspecting shoppers got a big surprise while enjoying their lunch at a food court. Over 100 participants sang the Hallelujah Chorus in this awesome performance on YouTube. If this doesn't put you in the Christmas mood, nothing will.
For my non-Christian family and friends, I hope you have a great day.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
How Can I Fly Like An Eagle ...
... if I'm surrounded by turkeys? I've been thinking a lot about turkeys today, for some reason. Maybe, it was because I was in the meat department at our local Safeway today, trying to decide what meats to stock up my freezer with. Or, maybe it was that cooking magazine I glanced at as I was checking out. It featured every way you could cook a turkey for Christmas.
Later, when I unpacked and put away all the groceries, I started thinking about this blog post. Turkeys kept coming to mind. By the way, I've never cooked one. Maybe, it's time I learned. Anyways, a picture I took, back when I lived near Carman, came to mind. Turkeys used to appear in the yard every year. Sometimes, mating groups; sometimes, a female with young. I rarely had time to photograph them. But, one day, I couldn't resist. From the kitchen window, I spotted a turkey up on the picnic table out back so I snapped this shot.
Who knows why it decided the old picnic table would be a great place to stand around for awhile. Maybe, it was checking out the nearby bird feeder to see what was on the menu? And, no, I didn't buy a turkey today. Maybe, soon, though ...
Later, when I unpacked and put away all the groceries, I started thinking about this blog post. Turkeys kept coming to mind. By the way, I've never cooked one. Maybe, it's time I learned. Anyways, a picture I took, back when I lived near Carman, came to mind. Turkeys used to appear in the yard every year. Sometimes, mating groups; sometimes, a female with young. I rarely had time to photograph them. But, one day, I couldn't resist. From the kitchen window, I spotted a turkey up on the picnic table out back so I snapped this shot.
Who knows why it decided the old picnic table would be a great place to stand around for awhile. Maybe, it was checking out the nearby bird feeder to see what was on the menu? And, no, I didn't buy a turkey today. Maybe, soon, though ...
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Food Choices
If you could only eat 7 different foods for the rest of your life, what would you choose?
After careful thought (and some salivating), I would choose bread, cheese, fruit, vegetables, coffee, milk, and, of course, chocolate.
In fact, on most days, I already choose these foods in my diet. Often, I also have tea, wine, butter, nuts, meat, or fish also.
So what are the 7 foods that you couldn’t live without? Is chocolate one of them?
After careful thought (and some salivating), I would choose bread, cheese, fruit, vegetables, coffee, milk, and, of course, chocolate.
In fact, on most days, I already choose these foods in my diet. Often, I also have tea, wine, butter, nuts, meat, or fish also.
So what are the 7 foods that you couldn’t live without? Is chocolate one of them?
Monday, November 29, 2010
Thought-provoking Questions
I heard a very interesting interview during "The Next Chapter" show on CBC radio the other day. During the show, hosted by Shelagh Rogers, an interviewer asked the interviewee, Camilla Gibb, a Canadian novelist (the author of "The Beauty of Humanity Movement"), the following questions from the Proust Questionnaire:
Name your favorite writers.
Who's your favorite hero of fiction?
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
What phrase do you most overuse?
What do you value most in your friends?
What historical figures do you most despise?
Your favorite occupation?
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
What is your principal defect?
The quality you most admire in a man?
The quality you most admire in a woman?
Where would you like to live?
If you want to hear the interview yourself, including Camilla Gibb's great answers, you can download the podcast at http://podcast.cbc.ca/mp3/nextchapter_20101101_40374.mp3. It's well worth listening to the entire show but the interview is at about the 22 minute mark.
Name your favorite writers.
Who's your favorite hero of fiction?
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
What phrase do you most overuse?
What do you value most in your friends?
What historical figures do you most despise?
Your favorite occupation?
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
What is your principal defect?
The quality you most admire in a man?
The quality you most admire in a woman?
Where would you like to live?
If you want to hear the interview yourself, including Camilla Gibb's great answers, you can download the podcast at http://podcast.cbc.ca/mp3/nextchapter_20101101_40374.mp3. It's well worth listening to the entire show but the interview is at about the 22 minute mark.
Argh!
Aluettes won the Grey Cup, 21 to 18. Too bad. Saskatchewan tried so hard. But, despite that, it was a great day at Marg's. Her family came to watch the game and have supper there. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Now, I'm home again, catching up on things on my computer and thinking that I should be in bed, reading a book, instead of writing this blog post. Being a person of inaction, I think I'll do just that!
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Saturday Date Day
Margaret planned today well, taking us to the Spamalot matinee at the Concert Hall, followed by a pleasant dinner at The Peasant Cookery. Spamalot, with its extravagant costumes, colours, singing, and 'in your face' speeches was a hoot! And, the Cookery, with its down-to-earth starters and entrees and fantastic wait staff, was very enjoyable. Thanks, Marg, for a great day!
It was also good to drive home afterwards and find that our streets had finally been cleared of snow. Driving through the deep snow and ruts on Civic and Carbutt was becoming a real challenge. With the sidewalks also cleared, we can now resume our dog walks without risking a slip and fall. At Marg's place, we set up the Christmas tree (she did most of it, me having very little decorating talent). Happiness is ...
And, today, Sunday, is Grey Cup Day, when Saskatchewan will beat the Montreal team. I imagine most Canadians will be glued to their TVs this afternoon. Marg is hosting a small family dinner, centred on watching the West beat the East (we hope). It should be fun.
It was also good to drive home afterwards and find that our streets had finally been cleared of snow. Driving through the deep snow and ruts on Civic and Carbutt was becoming a real challenge. With the sidewalks also cleared, we can now resume our dog walks without risking a slip and fall. At Marg's place, we set up the Christmas tree (she did most of it, me having very little decorating talent). Happiness is ...
And, today, Sunday, is Grey Cup Day, when Saskatchewan will beat the Montreal team. I imagine most Canadians will be glued to their TVs this afternoon. Marg is hosting a small family dinner, centred on watching the West beat the East (we hope). It should be fun.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Snow Blown
It turned out to be a nice sunny day here, starting about noon, as the clouds moved off to the east. I always marvel at how sunshine brightens our outlook on everything. After a few days of overcast skies, the brilliant sunshine somehow makes everything okay, even the rough going on some of the snow-clogged, residential streets.
I was pleased to find my snow blower started easily this morning, enabling me to clear the foot or so of snow from my driveway quickly, with a minimum of shoveling. Now, hopefully, our street will soon be cleared. Maybe, tonight?
I was going to clear the back deck again this afternoon. But, fortunately, Margaret invited me to go for lunch and do a bit of shopping with her. After she dropped me off at home, a nap seemed more attractive than shoveling the snow off the deck. So, Holly and I curled up together and dreamt of warm, sunny, country walks. It was nice!
Faced next with creating supper, I again chose the easy route, finding some frozen beef stew I made a couple of weeks back in my basement freezer. Just the right meal for a cold, wintry evening ... and a thoroughly lazy cook!
I was pleased to find my snow blower started easily this morning, enabling me to clear the foot or so of snow from my driveway quickly, with a minimum of shoveling. Now, hopefully, our street will soon be cleared. Maybe, tonight?
I was going to clear the back deck again this afternoon. But, fortunately, Margaret invited me to go for lunch and do a bit of shopping with her. After she dropped me off at home, a nap seemed more attractive than shoveling the snow off the deck. So, Holly and I curled up together and dreamt of warm, sunny, country walks. It was nice!
Faced next with creating supper, I again chose the easy route, finding some frozen beef stew I made a couple of weeks back in my basement freezer. Just the right meal for a cold, wintry evening ... and a thoroughly lazy cook!
Thursday, November 25, 2010
37 cm So Far ...
That's a lot of snow, even for Manitoba, in the last few days. And, with the wind blowing it around this afternoon and evening, some large drifts are certain to form. One of them will be in my driveway. I drove to the pharmacy a few minutes ago with Holly. It's only a couple of kilometres away but I was glad I was driving a 4x4 vehicle with lots of clearance.
Our residential streets have not been plowed yet so they are really 'tough going'. A few unhappy people were being towed out of ditches in my neighborhood while I drove by. At least, our bus routes are kept clear and there's talk of the City clearing the residential streets next. An overnight parking ban goes into effect tonight.
Margaret and I had planned to see "White Christmas" at MTC, in downtown Winnipeg, tonight. We may have to cancel that plan. Oh, well, it should all be cleared away by Saturday when we're scheduled to attend "Spamalot" at the Concert Hall. One learns, living in this province of winter weather extremes, not to write any planned outings in concrete.
On a positive note, it looks quite beautiful outside. All the browns of fall (including some leaves I never got around to raking) are now covered in brilliant white and the foot-high clumps of snow on trees and shrubs and even various objects around the yard are really quite pretty to look at. Maybe, I'll have some interesting photos to post here soon.
For friends and family in Ontario and further east, get ready for snow, lots of snow. It's headed your way ...
Our residential streets have not been plowed yet so they are really 'tough going'. A few unhappy people were being towed out of ditches in my neighborhood while I drove by. At least, our bus routes are kept clear and there's talk of the City clearing the residential streets next. An overnight parking ban goes into effect tonight.
Margaret and I had planned to see "White Christmas" at MTC, in downtown Winnipeg, tonight. We may have to cancel that plan. Oh, well, it should all be cleared away by Saturday when we're scheduled to attend "Spamalot" at the Concert Hall. One learns, living in this province of winter weather extremes, not to write any planned outings in concrete.
On a positive note, it looks quite beautiful outside. All the browns of fall (including some leaves I never got around to raking) are now covered in brilliant white and the foot-high clumps of snow on trees and shrubs and even various objects around the yard are really quite pretty to look at. Maybe, I'll have some interesting photos to post here soon.
For friends and family in Ontario and further east, get ready for snow, lots of snow. It's headed your way ...
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Went to Carman Today
Glad my routine doctor's appointment in Carman was for today, not tomorrow. Today, in sunshine, the highway was dry and clear. But, the forecast is now for 4-5" of snow, starting at midnight. I wouldn't want to be driving out to Carman tomorrow.
I'm not looking forward to shoveling the driveway clear again on Wednesday. Twice in the last few days is enough! I suppose we can't complain; not after the great fall and early winter weather that we had. Regardless, it's good exercise (though, I can think of better ways of exercising!).
Thinking about all that shoveling just tired me out. Guess that I'll go have a nap now ...
I'm not looking forward to shoveling the driveway clear again on Wednesday. Twice in the last few days is enough! I suppose we can't complain; not after the great fall and early winter weather that we had. Regardless, it's good exercise (though, I can think of better ways of exercising!).
Thinking about all that shoveling just tired me out. Guess that I'll go have a nap now ...
Monday, November 22, 2010
Something My Father Gave Me
My dad loved music. He had a fairly good stereo and loved to play military marches and such music. When home alone, he cranked up the volume. He said the volume was high enough only if the windows started to vibrate with the music. And, he loved bagpipe music. That love he passed on to me.
I listen to it often. Usually alone, because not too many people share this love of bagpipes. Some people (weird, I know) actually hate bagpipe music. That's their loss, as far as I'm concerned. Obviously, there can't be any good Irish or Scottish blood flowing in their veins.
I suppose that even I can get tired of the pipes. I usually over-dose on them and then stay away from them for awhile. But, I always come back! One of my pleasures is to discover a band or singing group that includes one or more bagpipe players. A good example would be the well-known Celtic Women (my all-time favorite Celtic group) and the lesser known Needfire (five rockers and a piper, if you can believe it!). Then, of course, there are a few bands that feature pipers, like The Red Hot Chilli Pipers. The other players are just backup. This group is wild! They really rock!
And, yes, like my dad, I believe the windows should vibrate whenever the pipers are playing ...
I listen to it often. Usually alone, because not too many people share this love of bagpipes. Some people (weird, I know) actually hate bagpipe music. That's their loss, as far as I'm concerned. Obviously, there can't be any good Irish or Scottish blood flowing in their veins.
I suppose that even I can get tired of the pipes. I usually over-dose on them and then stay away from them for awhile. But, I always come back! One of my pleasures is to discover a band or singing group that includes one or more bagpipe players. A good example would be the well-known Celtic Women (my all-time favorite Celtic group) and the lesser known Needfire (five rockers and a piper, if you can believe it!). Then, of course, there are a few bands that feature pipers, like The Red Hot Chilli Pipers. The other players are just backup. This group is wild! They really rock!
And, yes, like my dad, I believe the windows should vibrate whenever the pipers are playing ...
Insomnia
The same unknown wag who said 'the best cure for insomnia is a Monday morning' probably also said 'people who snore always fall asleep first'. Regardless, it sure was nice to sleep in a bit this morning. I, as usual, was up for awhile in the middle of the night when a certain dog of mine hopped up on my bed and started panting hard. That often signals her desire to be allowed outside. Perhaps, more often, her desire for some milk bones. Because I never know which, for sure, I get up and head to the kitchen. If she's waiting at the deck door, out she goes. If she's waiting at the end of the kitchen counter, I reach for her cookie jar. By this time, I'm fully awake and thinking about coffee. Often as not, I succumb and make myself a cup, retiring to my home office to make my rounds on my desk-top. After my coffee (and a few more milk bones for the beast), I usually head back to bed, to continue my reading and, hopefully, fall back to sleep. And, so began my week ...
Sunday, November 21, 2010
We've Only Just Begun
Today, it occurred to me, while listening to some of my favorite singers as I surfed the Web, that so many of them died, when they'd only really got going in their musical careers.
Karen Carpenter, who some say had the best female voice ever, died of heart failure, attributed to chronic anorexia. Eva Cassidy died of melanoma. John Denver died in an airplane crash. Others included Rick Nelson, Roy Orbison, Aaliyah, Patsy Cline, Janis Joplin, and Bobby Darin. The list goes on and on. It seems so sad to ponder these premature deaths. Fortunately, for us, their music lives on. We can still enjoy their voices, though they are now long gone.
Hopefully, after I'm 'long gone', my family and close friends will still be able to read my words and view my photographs. Not that I'm planning on leaving any time soon! I promised someone I'd give her twenty more years to be with me ... a promise that I hope to keep.
Karen Carpenter, who some say had the best female voice ever, died of heart failure, attributed to chronic anorexia. Eva Cassidy died of melanoma. John Denver died in an airplane crash. Others included Rick Nelson, Roy Orbison, Aaliyah, Patsy Cline, Janis Joplin, and Bobby Darin. The list goes on and on. It seems so sad to ponder these premature deaths. Fortunately, for us, their music lives on. We can still enjoy their voices, though they are now long gone.
Hopefully, after I'm 'long gone', my family and close friends will still be able to read my words and view my photographs. Not that I'm planning on leaving any time soon! I promised someone I'd give her twenty more years to be with me ... a promise that I hope to keep.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Turning Stumbling Blocks into Stepping Stones
Every day, we face new problems, especially when there is a lot of change going on in our lives. And, often these problems come to us unexpectedly, sometimes from surprising sources. My problems often come in the mail, maybe an official notice or unexpected bill. Sometimes, they appear as a distressing email. Recently, one came when I was picking up an expensive prescription at the local pharmacy and learnt that, ‘no, you have to pay cash for this medication; it's not covered under your new medical plan’.
Problems can certainly complicate your life. But, instead of feeling distressed about something, one must simply shake their head and start to figure out how to solve the problem. It may take some time to fix a given problem. Days, weeks, months. And, let's face it; some problems cannot be fixed completely, only accepted and worked around, or patched up. The best one can do is recognize that most problems are just temporary inconveniences. You learn from these events and you move on.
Having faced many problems over the past year, I’ve learned one important lesson. There are many good people out there that are willing and able to help you find solutions. Some of these people will help you because they value you as a friend or as a customer; others, simply because they are just good people, have seen the problem before, and know how to find the answer quickly for you. For some problems, of course (e.g., legal, financial), you may have to hire a professional to sort things out for you. But, you rarely have to go it alone.
Happiness is rebounding from the problems you face from day to day. A positive attitude goes a long way in turning life's stumbling blocks into stepping stones.
Problems can certainly complicate your life. But, instead of feeling distressed about something, one must simply shake their head and start to figure out how to solve the problem. It may take some time to fix a given problem. Days, weeks, months. And, let's face it; some problems cannot be fixed completely, only accepted and worked around, or patched up. The best one can do is recognize that most problems are just temporary inconveniences. You learn from these events and you move on.
Having faced many problems over the past year, I’ve learned one important lesson. There are many good people out there that are willing and able to help you find solutions. Some of these people will help you because they value you as a friend or as a customer; others, simply because they are just good people, have seen the problem before, and know how to find the answer quickly for you. For some problems, of course (e.g., legal, financial), you may have to hire a professional to sort things out for you. But, you rarely have to go it alone.
Happiness is rebounding from the problems you face from day to day. A positive attitude goes a long way in turning life's stumbling blocks into stepping stones.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Wind Chills
It's only -8 out right now but the wind chill is -16. Just back from a good winter walk with Holly, I thought, heading out, that I'd dressed very well for the current weather. Unfortunately, I forgot about covering my ears. I didn't think I'd need a hood or toque. After all, it was only -8. Wrong! Live and learn.
I suppose it always takes lessons like this to smarten us up a bit for the changing conditions. It's the same principle when it comes to driving during the first days of winter snow and ice, as a lot of Manitobans are finding out, waiting to be towed out of roadside ditches.
I took my small camera along with me today, think I might find something I'd like to record. You know, the 'first days of winter' sort of photos. Well, with the cold wind and the cloudy skies, nothing really was too enticing. All I really wanted to do was to return to my warm home and put the coffee on.
We're under a 'heavy snowfall warning' at the moment, with 15-20 cm forecast for the city. And, yes, I have my snow shovel ready! I can even crank up my snow blower, if that becomes necessary. Hopefully, it won't be, with this first real snow fall of the season.
It's times like this that I wish I lived on the West Coast. Or should I say the Wet Coast?
I suppose it always takes lessons like this to smarten us up a bit for the changing conditions. It's the same principle when it comes to driving during the first days of winter snow and ice, as a lot of Manitobans are finding out, waiting to be towed out of roadside ditches.
I took my small camera along with me today, think I might find something I'd like to record. You know, the 'first days of winter' sort of photos. Well, with the cold wind and the cloudy skies, nothing really was too enticing. All I really wanted to do was to return to my warm home and put the coffee on.
We're under a 'heavy snowfall warning' at the moment, with 15-20 cm forecast for the city. And, yes, I have my snow shovel ready! I can even crank up my snow blower, if that becomes necessary. Hopefully, it won't be, with this first real snow fall of the season.
It's times like this that I wish I lived on the West Coast. Or should I say the Wet Coast?
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Totally Addicted
After attending Mamma Mio with Margaret again tonight, I came home and immediately went to YouTube to listen again to the ABBA songs I heard earlier. Yes, I'm addicted to their music. Fernando, Mamma Mia, Honey Honey, SOS, Take a Chance on Me, and so many others. I'm so pumped with their music that I'm wondering now if I'll get to sleep soon. Oh, well ... it was worth it. Thanks, again, Margaret!
Never Look Back
The way is open ahead. Step through the open gate into the world before you. A better life, to enjoy and to fill with wonderful new memories.
And, remember to close the gate behind you ...
And, remember to close the gate behind you ...
Flurrious
When you glance out the window in the morning, after the sky lightens, and see the wind churning up the collected snow flakes on the deck and walks, you begin to believe the forecast for a 60% chance of flurries. Flurries are a gentle reminder that, ready or not, winter has arrived at your door. Whereas I don't welcome winter --- the cold, the ice, the snow --- I'm now ready for it. Well, as ready as I can be.
My warm winter wear is hanging in the closet, ready to be worn. My winter boots are sitting by the front door. Good thing. The temperature this week will not get above freezing. Indeed, snow is forecast for tomorrow. Soon, I'll get everything on, put Holly on her leash, and go for our first walk in the suddenly cold morning air of Winterpeg. Oddly, I'm actually looking forward to it.
Thinking warm thoughts ...
My warm winter wear is hanging in the closet, ready to be worn. My winter boots are sitting by the front door. Good thing. The temperature this week will not get above freezing. Indeed, snow is forecast for tomorrow. Soon, I'll get everything on, put Holly on her leash, and go for our first walk in the suddenly cold morning air of Winterpeg. Oddly, I'm actually looking forward to it.
Thinking warm thoughts ...
"You raise me up ...
... to more than I can be" (Josh Grobin). One of my favorite male singers is Josh Grobin. And, this is one of best known songs. If you would like to hear him sing it, turn the sound way up on your computer's speakers, and go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnztMhtUF6o&feature=channel
While you're there, after you've been raised up, listen to my other favorite song of his: "Don't Give Up".
While you're there, after you've been raised up, listen to my other favorite song of his: "Don't Give Up".
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Ancestree
Ever think how family trees have become more complex over time? Long ago, they were relatively simple to visualize, a steadily branching tree. Nowadays, they are anything but simple. Marriages, if they even happen, often end and new ones begin, sometimes repeatedly. Children may be produced in each of them, some of them, or not at all. You can end up with a multiplicity of surnames and vaguely linked family trees.
Pity the family historian years down the road, trying to make sense of it all. That person could easily get lost in the forest of family trees that is created over time.
The Best Time to Walk the Beach
When the tide is out ... that's the best time to walk the beach. So much is revealed when the water is at it's lowest. Things you'd never see at any other time. Not only is there more space to walk along the shore, but as you stroll, you discover things left behind when the moon pulled the sea away.
The following quote made me think of the many walks I've taken along various Canadian beaches, but mostly those on Vancouver Island. "Every time we walk along a beach, some ancient urge disturbs us so that we find ourselves shedding shoes and garments or scavenging among seaweed and whitened timbers like the homesick refugees of a long war" (Loren Eiseley).
A walk along the beach during a storm can be invigorating. On the other hand, strolling along in the early morning or late evening, when all is calm, can give one an overwhelming feeling of peace.
Life is a beach ...
The following quote made me think of the many walks I've taken along various Canadian beaches, but mostly those on Vancouver Island. "Every time we walk along a beach, some ancient urge disturbs us so that we find ourselves shedding shoes and garments or scavenging among seaweed and whitened timbers like the homesick refugees of a long war" (Loren Eiseley).
Living or once alive, there are treasures to find, to record, or to collect ... to take away with you, in your pocket, in your camera, or in your memory. Treasures found while walking the beach may vary from just the scent of crisp, salt air to an exquisite shell found amongst the debris on the sand, maybe left behind after a storm. It may include a glimpse into a tide pool, filled with some jewels of marine life.
Life is a beach ...
Monday, November 15, 2010
Mortar and Pestle
Often, one must grind a spice to taste its essence. In the kitchen, we can use a simple mortar and pestle to grind up spice seeds to release their flavour so that we can add them to some dish we are preparing.
Occasionally, on an outing, we may see a natural mortar and pestle. Like this stone, caught in a depression in a large rock, in the inter-tidal zone of a west coast beach. Slowly, very slowly, with each tide, the small, hard, little stone is swirled in the softer cavity, and, mixed with a little trapped sand, it gradually deepens its nest in the rock, becoming more and more established, revealing lines you'd never see, in both the stone and the rock.
A little like life itself ...
Occasionally, on an outing, we may see a natural mortar and pestle. Like this stone, caught in a depression in a large rock, in the inter-tidal zone of a west coast beach. Slowly, very slowly, with each tide, the small, hard, little stone is swirled in the softer cavity, and, mixed with a little trapped sand, it gradually deepens its nest in the rock, becoming more and more established, revealing lines you'd never see, in both the stone and the rock.
A little like life itself ...
Sometimes, Music Touches My Soul
From Elton John to Pavarotti, from Mannheim Steamroller to the Barra MacNeils ... it doesn't matter so much as to who or what, every once in awhile, I sit between my surround sound speakers and I'm completely swept away by a song or a tune. It may be just one or it may be a series of songs that carries me away. Sometimes, a certain song just hits home like it never did before. It sparks my innermost thoughts or my imagination. It makes me remember or think of some place or some time in my past. It makes me want to grab my pen or my camera and create something so I can record the feeling I have, for the future.
As you may have already guessed, I'm in a musical trance right now ... enjoying the moment so much.
As you may have already guessed, I'm in a musical trance right now ... enjoying the moment so much.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Relaxing Sunday
Seems to me, most of my days lately have been relaxing ones. For someone with that old WASP work ethic, that means I feel guilty that I'm not doing too much. Other than the housework, cooking, and shopping, I've not been doing much at all. In recent days, I've done a lot of (so-called) research on the Web ... looking at images on Flickr, learning about odds and ends of writing, calligraphy, graphics, design, Canadian history, etc. It's what I often call "following the thread", for want of a better description. It's certainly not 'work'. I've even been watching some TV (beyond my usual viewing of Food TV over breakfast and lunch) ... good grief!
Well, got to go now ... have to follow some more threads ...
Well, got to go now ... have to follow some more threads ...
Friday, November 12, 2010
The Serenity Prayer
The Serenity Prayer is the common name for an originally untitled prayer attributed to the theologian, Reinhold Niebuhr, in the 1930’s. It is used by such groups as Alcoholics Anonymous.
Every once in awhile and most often when I feel overwhelmed by happenings in my life, I come across this prayer, seemingly by accident.
The short version is:
God, grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
I like the full version:
God, grant us the
Serenity to accept things we cannot change,
Courage to change the things we can, and the
Wisdom to know the difference
Patience for the things that take time
Appreciation for all that we have, and
Tolerance for those with different struggles
Freedom to live beyond the limitations of our past ways, the
Ability to feel your love for us and our love for each other and the
Strength to get up and try again even when we feel it is hopeless.
As a close friend said to me today, ‘just keep thinking, it’ll all be over soon’.
Every once in awhile and most often when I feel overwhelmed by happenings in my life, I come across this prayer, seemingly by accident.
The short version is:
God, grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
I like the full version:
God, grant us the
Serenity to accept things we cannot change,
Courage to change the things we can, and the
Wisdom to know the difference
Patience for the things that take time
Appreciation for all that we have, and
Tolerance for those with different struggles
Freedom to live beyond the limitations of our past ways, the
Ability to feel your love for us and our love for each other and the
Strength to get up and try again even when we feel it is hopeless.
As a close friend said to me today, ‘just keep thinking, it’ll all be over soon’.
The Days Pass Too Quickly
My last post was on Tuesday and, now, it's already Friday! It's not that I was too busy to write something. The last couple of days have been kind of lazy ones. Lots of reading, relaxing, watching TV, and napping actually. I blame it on the weather: yukky weather! After weeks of wonderful, mild, sunny weather, it's turned cloudy, cold and wet, with drizzle and snow showers thrown in. The kind of weather that makes one retreat into the comforts of a warm home.
I know I'll have to make an attitude adjustment quite soon. Both Holly and I need some exercise and the only place we'll get that is outdoors, on a long walk. I must face the fact that winter has arrived and make the most of it. It's just a matter of dressing for the outdoors. For me, bulky sweater and coat, hat, gloves, and warm winter boots. Fortunately for Holly, she's already dressed for it: indeed, she has a good long coat on her right now. And, when she starts running, she gets quite warm. Of course, she's off to the groomers in a week or so, and, once trimmed again, she will feel cool when she's outdoors, for awhile anyways. But, it doesn't take her long to grow a warm winter coat.
This morning, I've already done my usual computer surfing. Flickriver first. I was pleasantly surprised to see that four of my contacts had one of their photos featured on this interesting series. Facebook second, with another cute shot of KT, my favorite grand-daughter, posted by Tasha, to bring a smile to my face. Then, over to YouTube, to watch/listen to some fantastic Beatles music. Next, I watched a bit of FoodTV, to get some ideas for tonight's supper; a Caribbean theme, featuring trout, seems like a good idea for a Friday, I think. And, today's plans? Lots of housework with a bit of grocery shopping is on my agenda. I best get moving now. Later ...
I know I'll have to make an attitude adjustment quite soon. Both Holly and I need some exercise and the only place we'll get that is outdoors, on a long walk. I must face the fact that winter has arrived and make the most of it. It's just a matter of dressing for the outdoors. For me, bulky sweater and coat, hat, gloves, and warm winter boots. Fortunately for Holly, she's already dressed for it: indeed, she has a good long coat on her right now. And, when she starts running, she gets quite warm. Of course, she's off to the groomers in a week or so, and, once trimmed again, she will feel cool when she's outdoors, for awhile anyways. But, it doesn't take her long to grow a warm winter coat.
This morning, I've already done my usual computer surfing. Flickriver first. I was pleasantly surprised to see that four of my contacts had one of their photos featured on this interesting series. Facebook second, with another cute shot of KT, my favorite grand-daughter, posted by Tasha, to bring a smile to my face. Then, over to YouTube, to watch/listen to some fantastic Beatles music. Next, I watched a bit of FoodTV, to get some ideas for tonight's supper; a Caribbean theme, featuring trout, seems like a good idea for a Friday, I think. And, today's plans? Lots of housework with a bit of grocery shopping is on my agenda. I best get moving now. Later ...
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
HBC Blankets
Hudson Bay wool blankets are Canadian classics. For over 200 years, the Hudson's Bay Company point blanket has been a familiar item in Canada and around the world. It is enjoyed as much today as when it was first introduced into the fur trade in 1780.
Although these blankets had been a staple of the fur trade to the natives and company men before 1780, it was not until the first shipment to Fort Albany in the spring of that year that they were shipped to the posts on a regular basis.
The "point" system had been invented by French weavers in the mid-18th century to indicate the finished overall size of a blanket, because then, as now, blankets were shrunk or felted as part of the manufacturing process. Later, the material in the blankets was also used to fashion coats. Coats were not made after the year 2000.
Right now, I have a 6-point (queen-sized) HBC blanket on my bed. The 8-point (king-sized) is the largest size made. Mine goes on my bed every winter. There's nothing more comforting than a heavy, warm blanket when the snow is swirling outside.
Although these blankets had been a staple of the fur trade to the natives and company men before 1780, it was not until the first shipment to Fort Albany in the spring of that year that they were shipped to the posts on a regular basis.
The "point" system had been invented by French weavers in the mid-18th century to indicate the finished overall size of a blanket, because then, as now, blankets were shrunk or felted as part of the manufacturing process. Later, the material in the blankets was also used to fashion coats. Coats were not made after the year 2000.
Right now, I have a 6-point (queen-sized) HBC blanket on my bed. The 8-point (king-sized) is the largest size made. Mine goes on my bed every winter. There's nothing more comforting than a heavy, warm blanket when the snow is swirling outside.
Unbelievable Weather
Today was partly cloudy here but with a high of 13 degrees. Too nice at this time of year to stay inside. So, this afternoon, Holly and I headed out to Beaudry again, to walk the grassy trails once more. I can't believe how nice the days have been lately. Our normal high is zero for this time of year. And, we're getting back to normal over the next couple of days, with snow forecast for Thursday (sigh ...).
After our walk, I stopped in at Shelmerdines Garden Centre again. I wandered through the greenhouse for awhile, looking at the poinsettias, Christmas cacti, peace lilies, and other seasonal plants that have been set out. As an aside, I'm nursing Margaret's peace lily back to health. Seems to like my attention because it's flowering now. At the garden centre, I also wandered through the gift store area and marvelled at all the Christmas decorations that were for sale. What an incredible variety of glittery ornaments! With prices to match, unfortunately.
Now, I'm home again and starting supper. How does Indian butter chicken, pan-fried potatoes, and my special Brussels sprouts dish with Parmesan cheese sound to you?
After our walk, I stopped in at Shelmerdines Garden Centre again. I wandered through the greenhouse for awhile, looking at the poinsettias, Christmas cacti, peace lilies, and other seasonal plants that have been set out. As an aside, I'm nursing Margaret's peace lily back to health. Seems to like my attention because it's flowering now. At the garden centre, I also wandered through the gift store area and marvelled at all the Christmas decorations that were for sale. What an incredible variety of glittery ornaments! With prices to match, unfortunately.
Now, I'm home again and starting supper. How does Indian butter chicken, pan-fried potatoes, and my special Brussels sprouts dish with Parmesan cheese sound to you?
Monday, November 8, 2010
Bling
According to Wikipedia, "bling" is a slang term popularized in hip hop culture, referring to flashy, ostentatious or elaborate jewelry and ornamented accessories that are carried, worn or installed.
Although the concept was mostly associated with rappers until recently, it has now spread widely into everyday pop culture and seems to be the newest and latest "in" word. Although not a word I would use in everyday conversation, I kind of like it for some reason.
Jewellery is not really my thing. And, as one who gets his latest clothing from Mark's Work Wearhouse, I could not use the term in a fashion context. But, I could see using it for the latest geek toys from Future Shop or Best Buy. Things like cutting-edge electronics, televisions, computers, cameras, and so on. Of course, they wouldn't be my things.
Unfortunately, one cannot be extravagant on a retiree's budget. These days, I have lots of empathy for people who can afford such things but not much money. So, I use the word 'ka-ching!' (the sound of a cash register taking my pocket money for groceries) instead of 'bling!'
Although the concept was mostly associated with rappers until recently, it has now spread widely into everyday pop culture and seems to be the newest and latest "in" word. Although not a word I would use in everyday conversation, I kind of like it for some reason.
Jewellery is not really my thing. And, as one who gets his latest clothing from Mark's Work Wearhouse, I could not use the term in a fashion context. But, I could see using it for the latest geek toys from Future Shop or Best Buy. Things like cutting-edge electronics, televisions, computers, cameras, and so on. Of course, they wouldn't be my things.
Unfortunately, one cannot be extravagant on a retiree's budget. These days, I have lots of empathy for people who can afford such things but not much money. So, I use the word 'ka-ching!' (the sound of a cash register taking my pocket money for groceries) instead of 'bling!'
Komainu
In Japan, a pair of stone guardian dogs, usually in front of a temple or shrine, is called "Komainu". They are usually placed at entrances to ward off evil spirits. They look a bit like a dog with a lion's head. Japanese lion dogs were originally seen in India. They were later brought to China and then Korea and finally to Japan, where they began to be used in the early 1600's.
Today, they can be found almost anywhere in the world where Asians have settled, even in downtown Winnipeg. I first saw two komainu in front of a small grocer store in Winnipeg's Chinatown, where I sometimes shop for difficult to find tools and ingredients that I use in my Chinese cooking. That store is directly across the street from my favorite place for Sunday morning dim sum, at Kum Koon Garden.
My personal, living komainu, here at 43 Carbutt, is alive and well. My bouvier, Holly, seems to serve the same purpose of warding off evil spirits. Certainly, she has a ferocious bark and any one coming to my door when I'm not at home would, I believe, think twice about breaking-in, after hearing that bark.
Today, they can be found almost anywhere in the world where Asians have settled, even in downtown Winnipeg. I first saw two komainu in front of a small grocer store in Winnipeg's Chinatown, where I sometimes shop for difficult to find tools and ingredients that I use in my Chinese cooking. That store is directly across the street from my favorite place for Sunday morning dim sum, at Kum Koon Garden.
My personal, living komainu, here at 43 Carbutt, is alive and well. My bouvier, Holly, seems to serve the same purpose of warding off evil spirits. Certainly, she has a ferocious bark and any one coming to my door when I'm not at home would, I believe, think twice about breaking-in, after hearing that bark.
Believe Impossible Things
Words from Alice in Wonderland ..."There is no use trying, said Alice: one can't believe impossible things ... I dare say you haven't had much practice, said the Queen. When I was your age I always did it for half an hour a day. Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast".
Some months ago, I dreamed something that I thought would probably be impossible. Then, I slowly began to believe it might be possilbe after all. Then, it happened. Dreams can come true. Happiness is ...
Some months ago, I dreamed something that I thought would probably be impossible. Then, I slowly began to believe it might be possilbe after all. Then, it happened. Dreams can come true. Happiness is ...
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Only 48 days left until Christmas ...
With the way that I hate crowds, especially in shopping malls, it's a good thing that I've got most of my "gift getting" done already. One of the perks of being retired is that I can do my shopping when most people are at work or school. No crowds; no line-ups; no waiting to part with my money.
Last night was a little different. I accompanied Margaret on some of her shopping errands. One place on the list was Costco. The parking lot was nearly full. I kept repeating to myself, "chill out, Roy ... it'll be over soon". This place always seems to be busy. Looking at the number of shopping carts inside the door, I thought the place must be empty.
Not so. This store simply has way more carts than it needs. It was very busy inside. Looking into some of the carts going by, I knew a lot of Christmas shopping was underway. After pushing the cart around for a half-hour or so and leaving Margaret at the check-out area, I waited outside to escape the crowds. Surprisingly, she appeared only a few minutes later, with a full cart and an empty purse. Costco is very efficient when it comes to their check-outs.
Last night was a little different. I accompanied Margaret on some of her shopping errands. One place on the list was Costco. The parking lot was nearly full. I kept repeating to myself, "chill out, Roy ... it'll be over soon". This place always seems to be busy. Looking at the number of shopping carts inside the door, I thought the place must be empty.
Not so. This store simply has way more carts than it needs. It was very busy inside. Looking into some of the carts going by, I knew a lot of Christmas shopping was underway. After pushing the cart around for a half-hour or so and leaving Margaret at the check-out area, I waited outside to escape the crowds. Surprisingly, she appeared only a few minutes later, with a full cart and an empty purse. Costco is very efficient when it comes to their check-outs.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Just looking, thanks ...
Brooks Anderson, painter and photographer, once said, "the virtue of the camera is not the power it has to transform the photographer into an artist, but the impulse it gives him to keep on looking".
Over the past year, I've resumed my habit of going nowhere without my camera. For a while, that habit lapsed. Too much was happening in my life for me to take time to just enjoy myself and my photographic pastime. I was caught up in so many changes in my life, including retirement, getting rid of the detritus of my consulting business, and moving from the country to the city, that I lost my hold on the things that I enjoyed doing. The stresses associated with major changes in one's life can do that to you.
Now, I'm back on track, more or less. I now spend many hours just learning new things (e.g., perennial flower gardening, reading about philosophers), doing new things (e.g., going to plays, musicals, galleries, restaurants), getting out into nature more (e.g., while walking with my dog or with friends), spending more time with old and new friends, visiting with family, entertaining, learning new cooking skills, and so on.
One of the great things about all these activities is that, when I have my camera with me, I pay more attention to what's around me and I look for opportunities to record the slices of life that I see.
Over the past year, I've resumed my habit of going nowhere without my camera. For a while, that habit lapsed. Too much was happening in my life for me to take time to just enjoy myself and my photographic pastime. I was caught up in so many changes in my life, including retirement, getting rid of the detritus of my consulting business, and moving from the country to the city, that I lost my hold on the things that I enjoyed doing. The stresses associated with major changes in one's life can do that to you.
Now, I'm back on track, more or less. I now spend many hours just learning new things (e.g., perennial flower gardening, reading about philosophers), doing new things (e.g., going to plays, musicals, galleries, restaurants), getting out into nature more (e.g., while walking with my dog or with friends), spending more time with old and new friends, visiting with family, entertaining, learning new cooking skills, and so on.
One of the great things about all these activities is that, when I have my camera with me, I pay more attention to what's around me and I look for opportunities to record the slices of life that I see.
Treasures
As we go about our lives, we collect treasures. Most people collect something: it may be baseball or hockey cards, art, ceramic bowls, marbles, crystals, figurines, teacups, matchbooks, stamps or coins, pinned insects, small mammal skulls, orchids, sea shells, or whatever. Over the years, I've collected many different things. Some collections have been passed on to my kids or simply given away to others. Currently, I collect digital photographs. My own, mainly.
Well, I don't really 'collect' them. I just make all sorts of images and save them. Way too many of them, I guess. But, unlike many of my other collections, my photographs don't take up very much space in my home, especially now that my images are digital. Someday, I may even convert all my old negatives, prints, and 35 mm to the digital format as well. It would certainly mean less dusting and free up some space for other things.
Digital images definitely are easier to share. For example, I can go to the birthday party of one of my grand-children and take a series of photos and, within hours, save the best images onto CDs which I can then distribute to the parents and grand-parents. Some images, I may print and stick on the fridge door to show off to visitors to my home. Some, I may post to this blog or my Facebook page for my friends to see; others, to my Flickr page for the world to see.
Why do I collect photographic images? Good question. Maybe, I do it because I have a need to create something that either pleases me or someone else? Maybe, so the images will serve to bring to mind memories of good times I've had or good places I've been? Maybe, because I sometimes see something out there that most people do not and I want to record it and show it to them?
Well, I don't really 'collect' them. I just make all sorts of images and save them. Way too many of them, I guess. But, unlike many of my other collections, my photographs don't take up very much space in my home, especially now that my images are digital. Someday, I may even convert all my old negatives, prints, and 35 mm to the digital format as well. It would certainly mean less dusting and free up some space for other things.
Digital images definitely are easier to share. For example, I can go to the birthday party of one of my grand-children and take a series of photos and, within hours, save the best images onto CDs which I can then distribute to the parents and grand-parents. Some images, I may print and stick on the fridge door to show off to visitors to my home. Some, I may post to this blog or my Facebook page for my friends to see; others, to my Flickr page for the world to see.
Why do I collect photographic images? Good question. Maybe, I do it because I have a need to create something that either pleases me or someone else? Maybe, so the images will serve to bring to mind memories of good times I've had or good places I've been? Maybe, because I sometimes see something out there that most people do not and I want to record it and show it to them?
Veterans Week Starts Today
As Remembrance Day nears and many of us reflect on members of our family who lost their lives during the past two World Wars and the conflicts since then that our troops have been deployed to, I started to think of my father, who served in the Army during WW II and, fortunately, survived.
I only have a couple of pictures of him during that time, one of which is shown below. Here, he's standing beside my mother somewhere in Toronto, probably on Northcote Avenue where her parents, Mary and Eddie Hiscock lived. My grandfather also served in the Army. My grandmother served in the Salvation Army.
I only have a couple of pictures of him during that time, one of which is shown below. Here, he's standing beside my mother somewhere in Toronto, probably on Northcote Avenue where her parents, Mary and Eddie Hiscock lived. My grandfather also served in the Army. My grandmother served in the Salvation Army.
It's odd how so many people in my family have been connected to our Canadian Forces. I never wore a uniform but I was a volunteer member of a DND advisory committee for over 25 years. My son-in-law is currently Detachment Commander at the Recruiting Centre, here in Winnipeg.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Part of our History
Relics from the past, insulators, like the one pictured below, were used for railroad phone and telegraph wires. Back in 1865, an American carpenter, Louis Cauvet, invented and patented the threaded pinhole design we may still find in insulators lying along old railroad track beds throughout our country.
They were designed as a method for threading the inside pinhole of the insulator, which then could be screwed down on a threaded wood or metal pin. Unlike earlier, slide-on insulators, these screw-on insulators stayed in place when the poles were battered by strong winds.
Millions of them were made and used for about 100 years. They are now, of course, obsolete for the most part, replaced by fibre optics or wireless communications.
Most people, these days, wouldn't even know what these objects are unless they were explained to them. If you're walking along old railroad tracks in the country, you might be lucky enough to find one still, maybe lying in the railroad-bed weeds. Maybe, even on some still-standing post. More likely, you'll see one at a garage sale or flea market, mixed in with a box of other strange objects.
Most older Canadians have had a glass insulator in a window or on a bookcase in their house at some point in their life. I still do. No longer made in Canada, they now are an interesting piece of Canadian history.
They were designed as a method for threading the inside pinhole of the insulator, which then could be screwed down on a threaded wood or metal pin. Unlike earlier, slide-on insulators, these screw-on insulators stayed in place when the poles were battered by strong winds.
Millions of them were made and used for about 100 years. They are now, of course, obsolete for the most part, replaced by fibre optics or wireless communications.
Most people, these days, wouldn't even know what these objects are unless they were explained to them. If you're walking along old railroad tracks in the country, you might be lucky enough to find one still, maybe lying in the railroad-bed weeds. Maybe, even on some still-standing post. More likely, you'll see one at a garage sale or flea market, mixed in with a box of other strange objects.
Most older Canadians have had a glass insulator in a window or on a bookcase in their house at some point in their life. I still do. No longer made in Canada, they now are an interesting piece of Canadian history.
Beaudry Revisited
This park is like a magnet, drawing Holly and me back to it, day after day. While my 'to do' list gets longer and longer (and my guilt about ignoring it, greater and greater), I still think every sunny day, at this time of year, is meant to be enjoyed. Holly agrees. So, back to Beaudry we go, time after time.
It's not the scenery, at this time of year, that draws me away from home and my chores. Indeed, there's little to excite me, from a photographic point-of-view, at Beaudry these days. You have to look hard to see beyond the browns of early winter. I think, in large part, it's the sheer joy I see in Holly as she cavorts along the trails. She rarely is motionless. Only when I'm a little too far behind her does she look back to see that I'm still following her. Very occasionally, she may even sit and wait for me.
The Assiniboine River flows through Beaudry. Maybe, it's appropriate that, these days, I just go with the flow, too.
Life is good in the present ...
It's not the scenery, at this time of year, that draws me away from home and my chores. Indeed, there's little to excite me, from a photographic point-of-view, at Beaudry these days. You have to look hard to see beyond the browns of early winter. I think, in large part, it's the sheer joy I see in Holly as she cavorts along the trails. She rarely is motionless. Only when I'm a little too far behind her does she look back to see that I'm still following her. Very occasionally, she may even sit and wait for me.
The Assiniboine River flows through Beaudry. Maybe, it's appropriate that, these days, I just go with the flow, too.
Life is good in the present ...
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Country Roads
There's a Danish proverb that the road to a friend's place is never long. Such was the case yesterday. With Holly beside me, I drove out to Carman. The warm, sunny weather was made for getting out of the house. First, I visited with my guardian angel, Karen, at her clothing store in Carman where we caught up our news with each other. Karen is celebrating 30 years in business at her location. Quite an achievement in small-town Manitoba. She's been putting shirts (and other clothes) on me for about 20 years. Our friendship has grown closer and closer over the years.
Next, I headed down some back roads, taking a few pictures along the way, to visit a couple of other long-time friends, Denis and Gwen.
Travelling these gravel roads brought back some good memories of my life, living near Carman. John Denver's song, Country Roads, kept going through my mind.
Along the way, it was neat to see most of the fields in the Carman-Homewood area already tilled and waiting for winter. There was still the odd farmer working, mowing down the already harvested corn stalks or doing some final tilling and harrowing. Most of the crops in this area are already in the bin or on the way to terminals.
Coffee and conversation with Denis and Gwen was great. Catching up on the local news with them was fun. They're now preparing to sell their country acreage, to move into town, into a new seniors' housing development where life will be a lot easier for them. But, I think they'll miss maintaining their yard site and the privacy that they now enjoy. I know I still miss my old place out there near Carman. But, you have to adapt to changing times and circumstances. Often, the changes we experience are good ones.
Next, I headed down some back roads, taking a few pictures along the way, to visit a couple of other long-time friends, Denis and Gwen.
Travelling these gravel roads brought back some good memories of my life, living near Carman. John Denver's song, Country Roads, kept going through my mind.
Along the way, it was neat to see most of the fields in the Carman-Homewood area already tilled and waiting for winter. There was still the odd farmer working, mowing down the already harvested corn stalks or doing some final tilling and harrowing. Most of the crops in this area are already in the bin or on the way to terminals.
Coffee and conversation with Denis and Gwen was great. Catching up on the local news with them was fun. They're now preparing to sell their country acreage, to move into town, into a new seniors' housing development where life will be a lot easier for them. But, I think they'll miss maintaining their yard site and the privacy that they now enjoy. I know I still miss my old place out there near Carman. But, you have to adapt to changing times and circumstances. Often, the changes we experience are good ones.
Monday, November 1, 2010
It Starts with an Idea
I know a few very creative people. Most of them note their ideas or thoughts in a sketch book, in a notebook, or on scraps of paper. Every once in a while, one of those ideas begs to be taken a step further, sometimes all the way to completion.
If I'm very fortunate, I get to watch one of their ideas go, step by step and over time, all the way from a vague note or sketch to a finished piece of art. It may take days, months, or years. The idea may end up as a painting, finely-crafted furniture, a quilt, or a piece of pottery.
If I'm very fortunate, I get to watch one of their ideas go, step by step and over time, all the way from a vague note or sketch to a finished piece of art. It may take days, months, or years. The idea may end up as a painting, finely-crafted furniture, a quilt, or a piece of pottery.
The Path We Follow
Someone (was it Tim McGraw, the country singer?) once said, "we all take different paths in life, but no matter where we go, we take a little of each other everywhere".
And, sometimes, we take the same path others have taken, again and again ... just at different times and under different circumstances.
And, sometimes, we take the same path others have taken, again and again ... just at different times and under different circumstances.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Pinot Grigio
A nice, light and crisp white wine. It went well with our pasta dishes last night at Dacquisto's. Margaret and I have started a tradition, just recently, of going out for dinner once a month at a fine restaurant in Winnipeg. Just the two of us, to enjoy a great meal and each others company. Usually, I cook during the week and she cooks on the weekends. Often, we entertain family and friends at home or somewhere else, and that can be a lot of fun, but these monthly outings are our quiet time together.
Tonight, being Halloween, is, of course, anything but quiet in my neighborhood. The trick or treaters have started coming to the door and, so far, I've seen some great costumes on the youngsters. Holly barks every time the door bell rings, as usual, and that adds to the noise level. I've had to put her in my bedroom so she doesn't scare the wee ones, not that she'd harm anyone. She just knows it's her job to warn away any possible intruders. Her aggressive sounding bark beats most security systems in this city. She's so dedicated to her job that, even when she hears a door bell ring on the TV, she runs to the door, barking her head off.
I'm looking forward to tomorrow, when everything will return to normal. Everything but the weather. Normally, the daytime high is 4 degrees at this time of year and often there is snow or slush on the ground. Tomorrow, it's supposed to reach 10 degrees or so and the ground is snow-free. Looks like Holly and I may get another walk in at Beaudry. I hope so. I'm just not ready for the white stuff yet. Will I ever be?
Tonight, being Halloween, is, of course, anything but quiet in my neighborhood. The trick or treaters have started coming to the door and, so far, I've seen some great costumes on the youngsters. Holly barks every time the door bell rings, as usual, and that adds to the noise level. I've had to put her in my bedroom so she doesn't scare the wee ones, not that she'd harm anyone. She just knows it's her job to warn away any possible intruders. Her aggressive sounding bark beats most security systems in this city. She's so dedicated to her job that, even when she hears a door bell ring on the TV, she runs to the door, barking her head off.
I'm looking forward to tomorrow, when everything will return to normal. Everything but the weather. Normally, the daytime high is 4 degrees at this time of year and often there is snow or slush on the ground. Tomorrow, it's supposed to reach 10 degrees or so and the ground is snow-free. Looks like Holly and I may get another walk in at Beaudry. I hope so. I'm just not ready for the white stuff yet. Will I ever be?
Friday, October 29, 2010
The Bandurist
A bandurist is a person who plays the Ukrainian plucked lute-like, string instrument known as the bandura. The bandura dates back to the late 500's. The first I heard of a bandurist was here in Winnipeg, in Assiniboine Park. In the park, there is a special garden called the Leo Mol Sculpture Garden. The garden allows you to view and enjoy the magnificent, donated, bronze works of master sculptor, Dr. Leo Mol, a local Ukrainian. One of his bronze pieces is called The Blind Bandurist.
From my friend, Vladimyr, I learned that, in the old legends, blind children were taught to play the bandura. The blind musicians were lead from town to town in Russia and Poland where they were greeted, housed, and fed. The bandurist was a minstrel and he would carry the news with him. There are stories of impoverished parents blinding their own children so that the child would be taken on as a student of a bandurist and fed. Thus, there is a note of tragedy and suffering in these old stories.
There are still a few badurists playing today, alone or in choruses, and, if you are interested in hearing their music, simply Google YouTube and bandurists and you will find the necessary links.
From my friend, Vladimyr, I learned that, in the old legends, blind children were taught to play the bandura. The blind musicians were lead from town to town in Russia and Poland where they were greeted, housed, and fed. The bandurist was a minstrel and he would carry the news with him. There are stories of impoverished parents blinding their own children so that the child would be taken on as a student of a bandurist and fed. Thus, there is a note of tragedy and suffering in these old stories.
There are still a few badurists playing today, alone or in choruses, and, if you are interested in hearing their music, simply Google YouTube and bandurists and you will find the necessary links.
Happy Halloween!
Odd, Halloween falling on a Sunday. Seems to me that that is a conflict of interest,at least for some people. I dutifully purchased a couple of boxes of candy bars to hand out Sunday evening to those who venture into our cul-de-sac, to do some trick or treating. Some industrious people in our area create interesting yard displays for this occasion, reminiscent of the displays put up outdoors for Christmas. Not me. I can't too excited about Halloween. Haven't been excited about it since those long years ago when I took the kids around the neighborhood and tried not to freeze my feet in the slush.
Here's my token photo for Halloween, captured at a garden centre I recently visited. Boo!
I know. It's a little early to do a Halloween post. But, I expect I'll be quite busy on the actual day and evening. Better to be too early, as they say, then too late or never.
Here's my token photo for Halloween, captured at a garden centre I recently visited. Boo!
I know. It's a little early to do a Halloween post. But, I expect I'll be quite busy on the actual day and evening. Better to be too early, as they say, then too late or never.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Signs
My favorite cousin, Barb, posted an interesting item on her blog today about signs of our times. We deal with hundreds of signs everyday as we travel around in our cars. Most of the road signs are important for every one's safety. Most of the advertising signs are a nuisance and an eyesore.
One sign that I came across this summer while walking through a famous garden near Victoria, BC, falls between the two extremes. It makes a point through humor. See for yourself:
One sign that I came across this summer while walking through a famous garden near Victoria, BC, falls between the two extremes. It makes a point through humor. See for yourself:
Her blog can be found at http://reflectivethoughtsbybarbara.blogspot.com/
Why Wait for Spring?
After a few days of rain and wind, it's great to see the sun again! I decided to make the most of the afternoon so, after going to the library and picking up a few groceries, Holly and I drove out to Beaudry to get in some trail walking. It was beautiful out there. Crisp and very cool. There were no other visitors while we there so Holly had the entire time off-leash.
Her pent-up energy was apparent as she literally galloped up and down the trails, splashing through the numerous water puddles along the way (some, in the shade of the burr oaks, actually with a thin layer of ice!), sniffing all the new things since her last visit.
Although nothing special really caught my camera's eye, I enjoyed the outing also. The highlight for me was watching three hawks soaring together above me over the grassland area. Their slow easy glides was thrilling to watch. Of course, I didn't have the proper camera gear to capture this scene. I suppose I will have to settle for the memory. Maybe, that's just as well. You can't capture some feelings with a camera.
Her pent-up energy was apparent as she literally galloped up and down the trails, splashing through the numerous water puddles along the way (some, in the shade of the burr oaks, actually with a thin layer of ice!), sniffing all the new things since her last visit.
Although nothing special really caught my camera's eye, I enjoyed the outing also. The highlight for me was watching three hawks soaring together above me over the grassland area. Their slow easy glides was thrilling to watch. Of course, I didn't have the proper camera gear to capture this scene. I suppose I will have to settle for the memory. Maybe, that's just as well. You can't capture some feelings with a camera.
Only Seven More Months ...
... and it'll be early summer again. I'll be out in the yard, pulling the odd weed, taking the occasional photo of a flower I missed recording this year, enjoying the warmth of a sunny day, free of bulky winter wear, and getting ready to take Holly for a long walk at Beaudry.
Today, we're heading into winter, with the temperature hovering near zero. At least, the wind and rain has ended and the clouds are moving off. I am really looking forward to seeing sunshine again.
Today, we're heading into winter, with the temperature hovering near zero. At least, the wind and rain has ended and the clouds are moving off. I am really looking forward to seeing sunshine again.
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