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?
Sunday, October 31, 2010
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.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Old versus New
Talking with my son today, he mentioned he's really enjoying his latest 'techno-toy', an IPad. It's quite the tool: a combination mini-computer-tablet and an IPhone. Having briefly tried one a couple of months ago, I was salivating for one myself, even though I don't need one. I used to be known for always having the leading edge technology (computer, printers, digital cameras and video recorders, etc.) in my business. Those days are gone. Now, I'm happy with my more reasonably priced digital gadgets.
Considering how we, as consumers, are inundated daily with advertisements for the latest in everything for the home, I thought back to those years before Canada became the nation it now is. Obviously, it was much simpler in the days of pioneer Canada. Our desks now are covered in electronic devices and wires leading from them. We don't have enough places to plug them all in.
In the days when the Hudson Bay Company was active in the fur trade across Canada, it was very different. Desktops then were covered in stick pens, ink wells, paper, and record books. If you were fortunate then, you might also have a small library of classic books on or near your desk. The only lights were candles and, later, oil lamps.
No, I don't yearn for 'the good old days'. Those days were very hard on people, physically and mentally. I prefer all the benefits of the time I live in now. The world is at my finger tips with my computer and I have access to more books than I could ever read, no matter how or where my interests shift. And, my life can be as simple or as complicated as I want. Yet, I still like to be able to see, touch, and hold old objects. Even to owe a few. Life is very good now ...
Considering how we, as consumers, are inundated daily with advertisements for the latest in everything for the home, I thought back to those years before Canada became the nation it now is. Obviously, it was much simpler in the days of pioneer Canada. Our desks now are covered in electronic devices and wires leading from them. We don't have enough places to plug them all in.
In the days when the Hudson Bay Company was active in the fur trade across Canada, it was very different. Desktops then were covered in stick pens, ink wells, paper, and record books. If you were fortunate then, you might also have a small library of classic books on or near your desk. The only lights were candles and, later, oil lamps.
No, I don't yearn for 'the good old days'. Those days were very hard on people, physically and mentally. I prefer all the benefits of the time I live in now. The world is at my finger tips with my computer and I have access to more books than I could ever read, no matter how or where my interests shift. And, my life can be as simple or as complicated as I want. Yet, I still like to be able to see, touch, and hold old objects. Even to owe a few. Life is very good now ...
A Cold Cuban Sandwich
Last night, for supper, I decided to do something different; I made a pan of roasted cauliflower with garlic and cumin and some Cuban sandwiches. If you've never had a Cuban sandwich, try making one. Just Google 'Cuban sandwich' for a recipe. I had never had one before and now understand why they're all the rage these days. Quite different and tasty. Anyways, as usual, I made extras for today's lunch and, during a middle of night foray into my fridge for something to graze on, I decided to have half of one, cold. Wow, they're even better cold than hot.
Looking Forward to Seeing My Shadow Again
Holly and I agree: rainy days suck! Neither one of us wants to venture outside while it's cold, windy, and rainy. We definitely are fair weather creatures, her and I. Thursday is predicted to be sunny and, even if it's only going to be 0 degrees, it'll be a pleasant change from this constant rain. I see a coming resumption of our walks together. Further contemplation of all this being at the whim of the weather makes me feel like a bit like a weak and spoiled person. Hmmm ... oh, well. Maybe, I am. Or, maybe, it just takes a few days for a person to adjust to less than ideal conditions. As some sage once told me, 'shake your head and get on with it'. On the other hand, another sage once told me 'just chill out; you'll get there eventually'.
Maybe, I just need another cup of coffee? Yes, that's what I need right now!
Maybe, I just need another cup of coffee? Yes, that's what I need right now!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
My Bucket List ... Continued
This past August, on an extended road trip across western Canada, I was able to check off an item on my bucket list. Well, sort of ...
My list included the wish that someday I'd be able to ring a church bell. I did get to ring a fairly large bell, if not a church bell. It was a memorial bell, located at Rogers Pass in the Selkirk Mountains.
The bell comes from a 1907 steam engine from the area and sits atop a pedestal rock which is from an old stone-arch railway bridge. The bridge was on the 1885 line between Glacier National Park and Yoho National Park.
The memorial garden, opened by Parks Canada just before we got there, marks the area where 58 rail-workers were killed, clearing snow from the rail line, in what is known as Canada’s largest avalanche disaster. Of the men killed, 32 were Japanese immigrant workers. The avalanche occurred in the area on March 4, 1910.
It was a privilege to ring the bell out of respect for the many lives lost building and maintaining the rail roads across our great country.
My list included the wish that someday I'd be able to ring a church bell. I did get to ring a fairly large bell, if not a church bell. It was a memorial bell, located at Rogers Pass in the Selkirk Mountains.
The bell comes from a 1907 steam engine from the area and sits atop a pedestal rock which is from an old stone-arch railway bridge. The bridge was on the 1885 line between Glacier National Park and Yoho National Park.
The memorial garden, opened by Parks Canada just before we got there, marks the area where 58 rail-workers were killed, clearing snow from the rail line, in what is known as Canada’s largest avalanche disaster. Of the men killed, 32 were Japanese immigrant workers. The avalanche occurred in the area on March 4, 1910.
It was a privilege to ring the bell out of respect for the many lives lost building and maintaining the rail roads across our great country.
CBC's Weather Bombs
Question: When's an 'early winter storm' a 'weather bomb'? Answer: When CBC is so desperate for improved ratings that it'll use any trigger word it can find.
Okay, it may prove to be a bad storm and it may affect a lot of Canadians, even some of those people who live outside of the southern Ontario 'Core of Canada', where CBC seems to aim most of its news, but do we really have to exaggerate our weather warnings like this? We are Canadians after all. We are used to the extremes of weather. There is, after all, no such thing as 'normal weather' in our country.
My rant of the day is over. Thank you for reading this.
Okay, it may prove to be a bad storm and it may affect a lot of Canadians, even some of those people who live outside of the southern Ontario 'Core of Canada', where CBC seems to aim most of its news, but do we really have to exaggerate our weather warnings like this? We are Canadians after all. We are used to the extremes of weather. There is, after all, no such thing as 'normal weather' in our country.
My rant of the day is over. Thank you for reading this.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Attention, Farmers ...
... and everyone else in southern Manitoba with a rain gauge that is still sitting on a post in the yard.
Yes, it's still raining lightly in our area but it will likely be mixed with snow by the middle of the week. And, the overnight low temperatures will be at the freezing point. So, unless you like to buy a new rain gauge every spring, it's time to take yours down for winter storage. Take it from someone who has occasionally left his up too long in the fall and seen the inevitable crack in the plastic caused by freezing.
Yes, there's even a snowfall warning for parts of central Manitoba tonight. The line of snow will, as it does every year, creep slowly southwards. Manitobans know that snow that falls after Halloween usually stays. Every parent who has slowly followed his child around the neighborhood, trick or treating, knows what slush does to summer footwear and cold feet.
Do you get the feeling that I'm dreading the onset of winter? Well, yes and no. I much prefer spring and fall in the prairies to any other season. Summer is great, too, if it doesn't get too hot or the mosquitoes aren't too bad. But, to brace my self for the coming cold, I have just looked at the past winter's photographs of a few of my Flickr contacts. I was heartened and inspired by many of the photos that I viewed. Birds at the winter feeder, hoar frost on the trees, snow drifts that looked like whipped cream, sun dogs, red berries on trees and shrubs, foot prints in the snow, scenes of Christmas cheer, and so on (I quickly skipped over the nasty shots of cars buried in snow, icy sidewalks and roads, and blizzards).
I guess every season (as every day) is what you make of it. It all boils down to having the right attitude. So, look out winter, here I come!
Yes, it's still raining lightly in our area but it will likely be mixed with snow by the middle of the week. And, the overnight low temperatures will be at the freezing point. So, unless you like to buy a new rain gauge every spring, it's time to take yours down for winter storage. Take it from someone who has occasionally left his up too long in the fall and seen the inevitable crack in the plastic caused by freezing.
Yes, there's even a snowfall warning for parts of central Manitoba tonight. The line of snow will, as it does every year, creep slowly southwards. Manitobans know that snow that falls after Halloween usually stays. Every parent who has slowly followed his child around the neighborhood, trick or treating, knows what slush does to summer footwear and cold feet.
Do you get the feeling that I'm dreading the onset of winter? Well, yes and no. I much prefer spring and fall in the prairies to any other season. Summer is great, too, if it doesn't get too hot or the mosquitoes aren't too bad. But, to brace my self for the coming cold, I have just looked at the past winter's photographs of a few of my Flickr contacts. I was heartened and inspired by many of the photos that I viewed. Birds at the winter feeder, hoar frost on the trees, snow drifts that looked like whipped cream, sun dogs, red berries on trees and shrubs, foot prints in the snow, scenes of Christmas cheer, and so on (I quickly skipped over the nasty shots of cars buried in snow, icy sidewalks and roads, and blizzards).
I guess every season (as every day) is what you make of it. It all boils down to having the right attitude. So, look out winter, here I come!
Here Comes the Rain
Don't you just hate it when the weather forecaster is right and it really does rain overnight? And, it's foggy, too? Well, I do. This morning, I took one look outside and decided to go back to bed to read for awhile. Even Holly wasn't interested in the great outdoors. She went out onto the deck, looked around, and barked to get back in and have some milk-bones. Once she was satisfied with those, she curled up and went back to sleep. She wasn't a great role model, for sure. I didn't read very many pages before I, too, gave in and followed Holly's lead. Even my coffee couldn't keep me awake this morning. Sometimes, it's best to just go with the flow.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Another Fine Day, So Far
This may be our last sunny day for awhile, with clouds moving in later in the day and several rainy days ahead. However, after what seems like weeks of sunny, mild weather, one mustn't complain. We've had a wonderful fall and we've made the most of it. Our many trips out to Beaudry (7 or 8 times over the past 4 weeks, I think) have been great. We're very fortunate to have such a beautiful, natural park so close to us. It's also fantastic that so few people seem to know of and use it.
But, today, alas, there'll be no trip to Beaudry. With the rain in the forecast, I must do some more work in the yard. As in farming, you must tend to your fields while the sun shines. With company coming for dinner later in the afternoon, I must also tidy up the house a bit. There's nothing like "company's coming" to motivate me to do some vacuuming and de-cluttering. I suppose it's the same with everyone.
A glance at the clock tells me that I'd better get moving ...
But, today, alas, there'll be no trip to Beaudry. With the rain in the forecast, I must do some more work in the yard. As in farming, you must tend to your fields while the sun shines. With company coming for dinner later in the afternoon, I must also tidy up the house a bit. There's nothing like "company's coming" to motivate me to do some vacuuming and de-cluttering. I suppose it's the same with everyone.
A glance at the clock tells me that I'd better get moving ...
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Early Saturday Morning
Very early. I'm awake and have already had a couple of cups of my life-giving Edwards West Coast Dark coffee. Holly has had more than her usual morning ration of milk-bones. She's now gone back to sleep, happy. I've caught up in my paper-based diary and now I am on my computer, getting ready to run through my usual routine of checking for emails, seeing what, if anything, is new on Facebook since I last looked, and, then, relaxing while I run through the latest edition of Flickriver. To some, this may seem kind of a boring start to the day but, to me, it's a sort of grounding. It allows my mind to gradually start functioning. Through it all, I'll soon figure out what I want to do most today and start getting some of those things done.
Right now, I have no great plans for the day. I'll just 'go with the flow'. I know Margaret wants to run a few errands later this morning and I'll go with her. Each of us needs a few supplies to maintain our homes, our dogs, and ourselves. I expect we'll also head out to Beaudry again this afternoon, when things warm up (11 degree and sunny, today and tomorrow!), to let the mutts run off some of their excess energy and to give ourselves some exercise. If there is some spare time, I think I'll continue working on the flower beds here. There are still some weeds to pull and plants that need to to be trimmed of their dead foliage. Also, I could do some more pruning. This winter, the flower beds will go into hibernation in better shape than they did last year.
So, we'll see what the day brings ...
Right now, I have no great plans for the day. I'll just 'go with the flow'. I know Margaret wants to run a few errands later this morning and I'll go with her. Each of us needs a few supplies to maintain our homes, our dogs, and ourselves. I expect we'll also head out to Beaudry again this afternoon, when things warm up (11 degree and sunny, today and tomorrow!), to let the mutts run off some of their excess energy and to give ourselves some exercise. If there is some spare time, I think I'll continue working on the flower beds here. There are still some weeds to pull and plants that need to to be trimmed of their dead foliage. Also, I could do some more pruning. This winter, the flower beds will go into hibernation in better shape than they did last year.
So, we'll see what the day brings ...
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Different and Tasty
Sometimes, I like to make something different for supper. Something I've never made before but have enjoyed at someone else's table. This time, I tried doing a butternut squash casserole with a little twist. Butternut squash is a type of winter squash. I've had one on the kitchen counter now for a couple of weeks, waiting to be cooked. Most people make this fall dish to go with something else. Sometimes, a roasted chicken dish and some broccoli is made to accompany it. Mine was, in fact, different and tasty.
I planned it as a one-dish meal. I added some chopped ham to the casserole mixture (to give it some extra protein and flavour), baked it in the oven to give an 'au gratin' appearance, and served it with whole wheat buns and butter on the side. I think this dish is a keeper and look forward to doing many variations of it in the future.
I planned it as a one-dish meal. I added some chopped ham to the casserole mixture (to give it some extra protein and flavour), baked it in the oven to give an 'au gratin' appearance, and served it with whole wheat buns and butter on the side. I think this dish is a keeper and look forward to doing many variations of it in the future.
A Breath of Fresh Air
Contemplating various things happening these days, some very good and some not so good, I decided I needed to get a breathe of fresh air ... away from my thoughts, my home, and the city. So, I headed west out to Beaudry with Holly in my vehicle. She was so excited when she saw me reach for my coat and her leash.
At this time of year, the rural scenery can be summed up by "brown on brown". Everything that was beautifully green or colourful a month ago is now some shade of brown, maybe with the odd tinge of green here and there. But, I took my pocket camera along with me, just in case something caught my eye.
Holly, of course, was eager to 'hit the trails'. She knew where we were and that I'd let her run free. So, I parked the Escape in the usual spot and down the trails we went, through the woods and out into the prairie grasslands. Holly seemed ecstatic, running all over the place, ahead aways and then back to me when I called. This was repeated over and over and she showed no signs of tiring. But, after awhile, I did.
I led her back along the wooded trail. A bit bored with that, I left the trail to wander in the woods. Holly, by my side, thought that this was new and great. We kicked our way through a thick carpet of burr oak leaves ...
I took time to look at the bark of some of the trees, studying the patterns and textures. I wished I had brought my better camera and macro lens along, for some close-up shots, but I took a few shots with my pocket camera to remind myself to do that next time.
Deciding that I'd lingered long enough and that I'd cleared my mind of some of life's detritus, I took Holly back to the vehicle and headed home. But, I still felt I needed to see something more cheerful, more colourful. So, I stopped along the way at one of the city's better garden centres and window-shopped ... again, with my camera in hand.
The staff were busy setting up Christmas displays ... every imaginable kind of decoration and many different styles of Christmas trees.
And, of course, in the greenhouse, there were hundreds of potted plants, some with just foliage plants ...
... others with brazenly colourful flowers, like these gerberas.
To see all of these colours, after a heavy dose of 'brown on brown' at the park, was just what the doctor ordered. I could go home now, happy, and think about making something different and tasty for our supper.
At this time of year, the rural scenery can be summed up by "brown on brown". Everything that was beautifully green or colourful a month ago is now some shade of brown, maybe with the odd tinge of green here and there. But, I took my pocket camera along with me, just in case something caught my eye.
On the way into the park, I stopped on the shoulder of the road to capture this image of some cattails. Not too exciting, for sure, but I like cattails so ...
I led her back along the wooded trail. A bit bored with that, I left the trail to wander in the woods. Holly, by my side, thought that this was new and great. We kicked our way through a thick carpet of burr oak leaves ...
I took time to look at the bark of some of the trees, studying the patterns and textures. I wished I had brought my better camera and macro lens along, for some close-up shots, but I took a few shots with my pocket camera to remind myself to do that next time.
Deciding that I'd lingered long enough and that I'd cleared my mind of some of life's detritus, I took Holly back to the vehicle and headed home. But, I still felt I needed to see something more cheerful, more colourful. So, I stopped along the way at one of the city's better garden centres and window-shopped ... again, with my camera in hand.
The staff were busy setting up Christmas displays ... every imaginable kind of decoration and many different styles of Christmas trees.
And, of course, in the greenhouse, there were hundreds of potted plants, some with just foliage plants ...
... others with brazenly colourful flowers, like these gerberas.
To see all of these colours, after a heavy dose of 'brown on brown' at the park, was just what the doctor ordered. I could go home now, happy, and think about making something different and tasty for our supper.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Groucho Made His Mark
Very few people living today have heard of Julius Henry "Groucho" Marx (1890-1977). He was a American comedian and actor known to radio listeners and early television watchers for his quick wit. You couldn't go through life in the 50's and 60's without knowing who Groucho was. Few would call him a philosopher but everyone would recognize him as an accomplished witticist.
You still see his witticisms quoted today. One of my favorite Groucho sayings is "Each morning when I open my eyes I say to myself: I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn't arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I'm going to be happy in it". That thought, more verbose than many of his quotes, helped to carry me through a few hard periods of my life.
Anyone who suddenly enters a difficult period of their life, when nothing seems fair any more, when their dreams and plans come crashing down on their shoulders, can easily become depressed. This encouraging quote would be a good one to copy out, stick on the bathroom mirror, and think about as you get ready to face another day.
You still see his witticisms quoted today. One of my favorite Groucho sayings is "Each morning when I open my eyes I say to myself: I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn't arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I'm going to be happy in it". That thought, more verbose than many of his quotes, helped to carry me through a few hard periods of my life.
Anyone who suddenly enters a difficult period of their life, when nothing seems fair any more, when their dreams and plans come crashing down on their shoulders, can easily become depressed. This encouraging quote would be a good one to copy out, stick on the bathroom mirror, and think about as you get ready to face another day.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Hardly Anything Goes According to Plan
Yesterday was no exception. Instead of yard work, I was persuaded to return to Beaudry in the afternoon to walk the dogs. The reasoning was that yard work can be done anytime but that sunny weekend days are meant for being out on the trail, getting some exercise for ourselves and our dogs. "Great idea", said Holly, when I asked her if she wanted to go for a walk. She sure gets excited when I ask her if she wants to "go for a walk" or "go for a ride".
Too soon, the green grass of summer will disappear ...
... to be replaced by all the white snow of winter.
Too soon, the green grass of summer will disappear ...
... to be replaced by all the white snow of winter.
Holly doesn't care what season it is as long as she is out walking with me.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Every Day is an Adventure
It's been quite the weekend. Friday night, I attended the opening show of Mamma Mio at Celebrations with Margaret and some of the key people that are associated with the Dinner Theatre. The show was great! If you like the music of the Beegees and Abba, you would love this show. The dancing and the the live singing by this show's cast was exceptionally good during the opening. This show runs until early January. I'm really looking forward to attending future nights.
Saturday found Margaret and I and, of course, the three dogs out at Beaudry Provincial Park again, walking the trails. None of us seem to tire of this place, just west of Winnipeg. It's been interesting lately, watching all the migratory birds move through, feeding on berries and seeds in the wooded and grassy areas of the park.
We'll certainly miss walking out there when the snow settles in and the cross-country skiers take over the trails. But, we'll find other trails that are suitable for us in the winter, if only the nearby Harte Trail again because the City keeps that one clear for walkers during the cold months. At least, the mosquitoes will have gone!
And, Sunday is finding Margaret and I tending to all of the necessary house work at our respective homes. I'm working indoors this morning and will move to yard work this afternoon when it warms up (the temperature went down to -3 degrees last night!). Yes, more tending to flower beds, pots, and pruning. I'm slowly getting a handle on all of the yard maintenance.
Saturday found Margaret and I and, of course, the three dogs out at Beaudry Provincial Park again, walking the trails. None of us seem to tire of this place, just west of Winnipeg. It's been interesting lately, watching all the migratory birds move through, feeding on berries and seeds in the wooded and grassy areas of the park.
We'll certainly miss walking out there when the snow settles in and the cross-country skiers take over the trails. But, we'll find other trails that are suitable for us in the winter, if only the nearby Harte Trail again because the City keeps that one clear for walkers during the cold months. At least, the mosquitoes will have gone!
And, Sunday is finding Margaret and I tending to all of the necessary house work at our respective homes. I'm working indoors this morning and will move to yard work this afternoon when it warms up (the temperature went down to -3 degrees last night!). Yes, more tending to flower beds, pots, and pruning. I'm slowly getting a handle on all of the yard maintenance.
Friday, October 15, 2010
My Two Journals
I keep two journals (or diaries or logs or whatever you want to call them). This blog is my public journal. I'm limited in what I can say here. I don't write anything here that is very personal or private or that might inadvertently embarrass someone (except myself, occasionally!). My other journal is written with pen and ink on paper. I can write anything I want in my private journal. From the mundane to the highly personal. I only allow one other person to read my personal journal. I have nothing to hide from my partner. When I'm gone from this life, I don't care who reads my journals.
Other the years, I've kept my personal journals in binders of all shapes and sizes and in bound books, like Moleskines. I like both types of paper journals but often find a Day-Timer style works best for me. It certainly did while I worked for others and then, later, for myself. Even now that I'm retired, I have enough appointments and events to keep track of that it's a handy style to use. It helps me to organize my days and my thoughts and feelings. Sometimes, those binder rings in my Day-Timer get in the way while I'm writing but no journal is perfect. Keeping this month's two-pages-per-day, plus the next two months, works well for me.
Occasionally, I look back through my old journals. It's kind of strange when I do that. Sometimes, I just shake my head at the thoughts I've jotted down. Often, what seemed like a life crisis 'a way back then' is now just a small event in my life, given hind sight and perspective. I also tend to shake my head at all the trivial things I've recorded over the years. Their real value, I suppose, is giving me an outlet for my personal writing. Once in a blue moon, they contain a needed record of what I did on a certain date, a person's name or address, or something of that sort. Most of all, those old journal trigger deeper memories. A few words that I recorded might enable me to recall the details of a part of my life. It might be a relationship, a trip, a business contract, an important event, or whatever.
I would encourage everyone to keep a journal. Someday, your kids, or grand-kids, or family historian might find your journals very helpful. Plus, you might just come to enjoy spending a few minutes a day or week just writing out your thoughts. Who knows?
Other the years, I've kept my personal journals in binders of all shapes and sizes and in bound books, like Moleskines. I like both types of paper journals but often find a Day-Timer style works best for me. It certainly did while I worked for others and then, later, for myself. Even now that I'm retired, I have enough appointments and events to keep track of that it's a handy style to use. It helps me to organize my days and my thoughts and feelings. Sometimes, those binder rings in my Day-Timer get in the way while I'm writing but no journal is perfect. Keeping this month's two-pages-per-day, plus the next two months, works well for me.
Occasionally, I look back through my old journals. It's kind of strange when I do that. Sometimes, I just shake my head at the thoughts I've jotted down. Often, what seemed like a life crisis 'a way back then' is now just a small event in my life, given hind sight and perspective. I also tend to shake my head at all the trivial things I've recorded over the years. Their real value, I suppose, is giving me an outlet for my personal writing. Once in a blue moon, they contain a needed record of what I did on a certain date, a person's name or address, or something of that sort. Most of all, those old journal trigger deeper memories. A few words that I recorded might enable me to recall the details of a part of my life. It might be a relationship, a trip, a business contract, an important event, or whatever.
I would encourage everyone to keep a journal. Someday, your kids, or grand-kids, or family historian might find your journals very helpful. Plus, you might just come to enjoy spending a few minutes a day or week just writing out your thoughts. Who knows?
La Dolce Vita
Life is good at 'Mosquito Flats Winnipeg'. And getting better, day by day. I spent some time Thursday afternoon, putting the flower gardens to bed for the coming winter. Some pots tipped on their sides to spend the winter outdoors; some readied to be stored, plants and all, in the heated garage for the winter. And, yes, I did some more pruning and weeding. This mild fall weather we've been enjoying has given us extra time to spend outdoors, doing the things we want to do. More than enough time for even a procrastinator like myself to get the necessary things done.
I will miss the perennial flowers in our yard over the coming winter months. But, at least, fresh flowers are only a short drive away, at a conservatory, a garden centre or a flower show.
And, if that fails to satisfy the thirst for greenery, there's always the possibility of travelling 'south' to a warm, tropical country during the long, Manitoba winter.
I will miss the perennial flowers in our yard over the coming winter months. But, at least, fresh flowers are only a short drive away, at a conservatory, a garden centre or a flower show.
And, if that fails to satisfy the thirst for greenery, there's always the possibility of travelling 'south' to a warm, tropical country during the long, Manitoba winter.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Autumn Leaves are Falling
These days, everyone is familiar with falling leaves. They cover our walking trails, our sidewalks, our lawns, and our flower beds. Some people refer to them as the 'flowers of fall'. Other city folk just curse them or their neighbours whose large trees continually shed their leaves into their yards. Mostly, we think of the fallen leaves from our deciduous trees, hardwoods and softwoods.
But, here in Canada, we also have a conifer that sheds its leaves each fall, the larch or tamarack, a tree most often seen in the wetter areas of the boreal forest. The delicate leaves (or needles, if you prefer that term) of this tree are really quite pretty.
Several small specimens were collected from northern Ontario and were planted in the yard of my former home near Carman. Only one survived the attention of the grazing deer to grow quite large and become a jewel among the hundreds of different trees that I planted there over the years.
But, here in Canada, we also have a conifer that sheds its leaves each fall, the larch or tamarack, a tree most often seen in the wetter areas of the boreal forest. The delicate leaves (or needles, if you prefer that term) of this tree are really quite pretty.
Several small specimens were collected from northern Ontario and were planted in the yard of my former home near Carman. Only one survived the attention of the grazing deer to grow quite large and become a jewel among the hundreds of different trees that I planted there over the years.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Odds and Ends
I posted a few photos to my Flickr page yesterday. Just some "odds and ends". Photos that didn't really fit into any of my photos sets on Flickr. Ones that I'd taken recently that I liked and thought others might enjoy seeing, too. A couple of them I'd already posted here in my blog. Well, I was somewhat amazed at the response. A couple of the "odds and ends" become instant favorites for some viewers. And, there were numerous comments, even some in French. I had to use Google Translate to understand those comments, my French being quite limited. I must say I was very encouraged by the response to these photos. So much so that I think I'll look through some of my other photos that don't really fit anywhere and, then, maybe see if any others might spark the imaginations of my viewers.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Standing Firm
So, 283 days so far this year and I've made 274 posts to this blog. I suppose that means I've fallen behind a bit in my writing. So, here's another post. My 275th post.
I look at this farmyard post, which, by the way, is probably about as old as I am, if not older, and I wonder how many birds have landed on it, briefly, to rest, to look for their next meal, or just to enjoy the sunshine. The years have passed and the good and bad weather has come and gone but it still is strong. Time has certainly given it character. With nothing attached to it now, this humble post serves no other purpose than to mark the edge of a property, a farm that has been in the family for generations.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Stuffed!
Now, to try to wear off all the extra calories I took in this weekend. Thanksgiving turkey at Margaret's sister's farm yesterday was great. What would Thanksgiving be without 'big bird'? I had some fun taking pictures there, too. The farm is a cow-calf operation so there were dozens of 'photo ops'. I really enjoy wandering around a farm yard and seeing what takes my camera's fancy.
Of all the photos I took, the one of an old farm truck pleased me the most. There's something about an old vehicle, stuck away in a quiet corner of the farmyard, slowly rusting away in the weeds, that appeals to me.
Knowing we would eat well, Margaret and I took the dogs to Beaudry for a little exercise before we went to the farm. Holly, as always, loved the time there. I had to take a picture of her while she waited for us to catch up to her on one of the trails.
Today, we got some more exercise, minding Matt and Alex for Josi and Greg while they held another open house for the sale of their St. Vital home. A couple of hours at the nearby school playground, tuckered us out, if not the grand-kids!
Grand-kids are just another reason for us to give thanks today ...
Of all the photos I took, the one of an old farm truck pleased me the most. There's something about an old vehicle, stuck away in a quiet corner of the farmyard, slowly rusting away in the weeds, that appeals to me.
Knowing we would eat well, Margaret and I took the dogs to Beaudry for a little exercise before we went to the farm. Holly, as always, loved the time there. I had to take a picture of her while she waited for us to catch up to her on one of the trails.
Today, we got some more exercise, minding Matt and Alex for Josi and Greg while they held another open house for the sale of their St. Vital home. A couple of hours at the nearby school playground, tuckered us out, if not the grand-kids!
Grand-kids are just another reason for us to give thanks today ...
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving has an interesting history in Canada, according to a website that I just visited (http://lifestyle.sympatico.ca/thanksgiving/what_to_know_about_thanksgiving/79462159).
"Thanksgiving derives from ancient festivities in Europe that celebrated the bounty of the harvest ... and enough food to survive the winter. The event often cited as the first Canadian (and North American) Thanksgiving was a feast of thanks given by Martin Frobisher and the Frobisher Expedition in what is now Newfoundland during their attempts to find the Northwest Passage in 1578.
Throughout the 19th century, official Days of Thanksgiving were proclaimed to celebrate such events as the cessation of cholera (Lower Canada, February 6, 1833), the end of war between Great Britain and France (Upper Canada, June 18, 1816) and restoration of peace with Russia (Province of Canada, June 4, 1856). The first Thanksgiving Day after Confederation was on April 15, 1872, to give thanks for the recovery of the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) from a serious illness.
From 1879 to 1920, Thanksgiving Day was celebrated annually in October or November, to celebrate "the blessings of an abundant harvest." From 1921 to 1930, Thanksgiving was combined with Armistice Day (now Remembrance Day), which was observed on the Monday of the week of November 11. Thanksgiving has taken place on the second Monday in October since 1931, except for 1935, when that date conflicted with a general election."
And, the history continues today as Margaret and I drive out to Portage la Prairie this afternoon to celebrate Thanksgiving with her sister, Cathy, and husband, Ian, and their children.
"Thanksgiving derives from ancient festivities in Europe that celebrated the bounty of the harvest ... and enough food to survive the winter. The event often cited as the first Canadian (and North American) Thanksgiving was a feast of thanks given by Martin Frobisher and the Frobisher Expedition in what is now Newfoundland during their attempts to find the Northwest Passage in 1578.
Throughout the 19th century, official Days of Thanksgiving were proclaimed to celebrate such events as the cessation of cholera (Lower Canada, February 6, 1833), the end of war between Great Britain and France (Upper Canada, June 18, 1816) and restoration of peace with Russia (Province of Canada, June 4, 1856). The first Thanksgiving Day after Confederation was on April 15, 1872, to give thanks for the recovery of the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) from a serious illness.
From 1879 to 1920, Thanksgiving Day was celebrated annually in October or November, to celebrate "the blessings of an abundant harvest." From 1921 to 1930, Thanksgiving was combined with Armistice Day (now Remembrance Day), which was observed on the Monday of the week of November 11. Thanksgiving has taken place on the second Monday in October since 1931, except for 1935, when that date conflicted with a general election."
And, the history continues today as Margaret and I drive out to Portage la Prairie this afternoon to celebrate Thanksgiving with her sister, Cathy, and husband, Ian, and their children.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Life is a Canvas
Danny Kaye said “life is a great big canvas, and you should throw all the paint you can on it”. I'm not sure of the context of his quote but I think he meant we should try to enjoy every day of our life.
Today was certainly enjoyable. First, Margaret visited for a bit to drop off some groceries for me. Then, Josi arrived to drop off Matt and Alex and their dog, Sasha, for me to mind for a few hours while she and Greg held an open house for the sale of their home. Spending time, playing with "the boyz", was sure a lot of fun. Later, Marg picked me up to drive us to the closing night of Tom Jones at Celebrations Dinner Theatre. Even though it was the fifth time I've seen this show, it was thoroughly enjoyable. Musical comedies are great entertainment!
Yes, I felt like I'd thrown a lot of paint on my canvas today. Memories are made of these ...
Today was certainly enjoyable. First, Margaret visited for a bit to drop off some groceries for me. Then, Josi arrived to drop off Matt and Alex and their dog, Sasha, for me to mind for a few hours while she and Greg held an open house for the sale of their home. Spending time, playing with "the boyz", was sure a lot of fun. Later, Marg picked me up to drive us to the closing night of Tom Jones at Celebrations Dinner Theatre. Even though it was the fifth time I've seen this show, it was thoroughly enjoyable. Musical comedies are great entertainment!
Yes, I felt like I'd thrown a lot of paint on my canvas today. Memories are made of these ...
Friday, October 8, 2010
Time to Let Go
The Ellis Camp has been in the family for 36 years already. Five acres of land and an old wooden tent on a small peninsula of Canyon Lake in Northern Ontario. Mostly granite outcrop but with a fairly thick coating of trees, shrubs, wildflowers, moss, lichens and ferns. And many, many good memories.
Now, it's time for the old folks to let go of this dream and pass it on to the kids, as we promised them years ago. Today, Trudie and I will meet with the same lawyer who did the paperwork for us back in 1974 to begin the transfer of title to Mike and Josi. It seems appropriate.
We hope that the cottage will still be called the Ellis Camp for decades down the road, long after Trudie and I are gone. It's always been 'a home away from home' for everyone who has enjoyed it and its surroundings over the years, both family and friends. Long may that continue ...
Now, it's time for the old folks to let go of this dream and pass it on to the kids, as we promised them years ago. Today, Trudie and I will meet with the same lawyer who did the paperwork for us back in 1974 to begin the transfer of title to Mike and Josi. It seems appropriate.
We hope that the cottage will still be called the Ellis Camp for decades down the road, long after Trudie and I are gone. It's always been 'a home away from home' for everyone who has enjoyed it and its surroundings over the years, both family and friends. Long may that continue ...
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Here Comes the Sun
Sigh ... Another glorious, sunny morning on the prairies. If I didn't need another cup of coffee before my brain kicks in, I'd already be outside, maybe west of the city, taking pictures. It looks that kind of day. But, looking out over the deck into the backyard, just now, while the kettle boiled for my 'second cup', I thought to myself that I might find some pictures closer to home today and get some yard work done at the same time.
Then, I saw the sun shining on this wall ornament on my deck and I knew that I was right.
Sometimes, you can have the best of both worlds ...
Then, I saw the sun shining on this wall ornament on my deck and I knew that I was right.
Sometimes, you can have the best of both worlds ...
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Man versus Nature in the Fall
Fall. Man and Nature. It's all in your outlook. Edwin Way Teale said "for man, autumn is a time of harvest, of gathering together: for nature, it is a time of sowing, of scattering abroad".
At this time of year, corn is starting to be harvested in southern Manitoba.
But, across the province, leaves are falling ...
... and seeds are being dispersed by the wind.
At this time of year, corn is starting to be harvested in southern Manitoba.
But, across the province, leaves are falling ...
... and seeds are being dispersed by the wind.
Unfortunately, I must now rake up those leaves in my yard and hope, as I do so, that I'm not aiding nature by spreading countless weed seeds across my turf. Somehow, I think Nature will win, as it always does. Ah, well, I need the exercise anyways.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Friendship
What is friendship? In 1537, Pietro Aretino is supposed to have said "I keep my friends as misers do their treasure, because, of all the things granted us by wisdom, none is greater or better than friendship". My friend, Vladimyr, and I just had a discussion of sorts about friendship. It's a complicated concept. A good friend is someone who is there for you, during good times and bad times, lending their support. It's someone who you invite into your life, your home, and, ultimately, into your heart. Good friends remain so, throughout their lives.
Fidelity
Fidelity is an interesting word, with several meanings. Defined as faithfulness to one's duties; accuracy, or exact correspondence to some given quality or fact; loyalty, especially to one's spouse; the degree to which a system accurately reproduces an input (en.wiktionary.org/wiki/fidelity). Each meaning sets off a different train of thoughts. I wish there was more fidelity in the world. Unfortunately, not everyone values fidelity as much as other things in their life. Each of us has our own set of values. Once in a long while, we become lucky and meet someone who shares those same values and brings hope and joy back into our life.
Resistance is Futile
I should know better. My rule should be "never make my special GORP bars unless I can give them all away the same day". Even if I freeze them all, I know where they are and I can easily take out a big piece for myself. And, when I wake in the middle of the night and think of them sitting there, waiting for me, I really have no will power. I try to ignore them and make another cup of coffee, hoping that will satisfy me. But, resistance is futile ...
Monday, October 4, 2010
Worry
Sometimes, I worry too much. You name it, I can worry about it. Sometimes, it's self-centred and I worry about myself: my health, my finances, my value to others, my future. Sometimes, I worry about other people: family members and close friends. Actually, most of the time, I worry about other people, not myself. I try to "fix" things for them; at least, in my mind. Leo Buscaglia said "worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow, it only saps today of its joy". I must remember these words. But, I worry that I won't ...
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Another Great Weekend
Last night, It was great to have my friend Vladimyr over for supper. I made a Chinese dinner for us, hot and spicy, the way we like it. As usual, Vlad and I solved most of the world's problems in our discussions of art, photography, history, symbolism, graffiti, and human behaviour, including thinking. We agreed that the more we, as humans, think we think, the less sure we are that we are actually thinking. Well, I think we agreed on that. Now, I'm not sure. Anyways, he and I had a great evening together, as we always do.
Today, Marg and I returned to Beaudry with the three dogs, walking the grassland paths. The weather was like yesterday, excellent. The dogs certainly got their exercise again today, chasing each other down the trails. Holly and Mollie have become great friends. Zoee, the little 14-year-old bichon, is content to just slowly tag along behind the two-legged creatures.
I'm really looking forward to walking these paths next summer, when the wildflowers are in bloom. Somehow, I never got out onto these paths this past summer with my camera. I won't let that happen again! It's obvious from the various seed heads and the descriptive park signs along the paths that there are many different wildflowers there.
Today, Marg and I returned to Beaudry with the three dogs, walking the grassland paths. The weather was like yesterday, excellent. The dogs certainly got their exercise again today, chasing each other down the trails. Holly and Mollie have become great friends. Zoee, the little 14-year-old bichon, is content to just slowly tag along behind the two-legged creatures.
I'm really looking forward to walking these paths next summer, when the wildflowers are in bloom. Somehow, I never got out onto these paths this past summer with my camera. I won't let that happen again! It's obvious from the various seed heads and the descriptive park signs along the paths that there are many different wildflowers there.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
All Shapes and Sizes
What great weather we're having! I'm not sure it's politically correct to say it, but Indian Summer is fantastic! We've had a long string of sunny, warm days and more fine weather is forecast. I sure am enjoying this Fall, so far. This morning, Margaret and I took the three dogs to Beaudry Provincial Park again. We arrived later than usual and there were dozens of cars in the parking lot. Fortunately, everyone seemed to be walking the woodland trails. We decided to try the grassland trails and were pleased to find them totally empty except for us. The dogs thoroughly enjoyed themselves running off leash.
On the way home, we stopped at two garden centres. At the first one, we loaded up on farm fresh vegetables (plus some saskatoon jam and some rhubarb marmalade for my sweet tooth). At the second one, we just looked around. The pleasant surprise was to walk into a greenhouse loaded with pumpkins of every shape and size.
We didn't especially want to buy any pumpkins yet but I couldn't resist taking a few pictures. Pumpkins have always been a symbol of Fall to me. The appearance of pumpkins marks the end of the vegetable growing season here in Manitoba. We'll start having more and more frosty mornings now until, come Halloween, the snow will appear and likely stay through the coming winter months.
On the way home, we stopped at two garden centres. At the first one, we loaded up on farm fresh vegetables (plus some saskatoon jam and some rhubarb marmalade for my sweet tooth). At the second one, we just looked around. The pleasant surprise was to walk into a greenhouse loaded with pumpkins of every shape and size.
We didn't especially want to buy any pumpkins yet but I couldn't resist taking a few pictures. Pumpkins have always been a symbol of Fall to me. The appearance of pumpkins marks the end of the vegetable growing season here in Manitoba. We'll start having more and more frosty mornings now until, come Halloween, the snow will appear and likely stay through the coming winter months.
On Track
Coming home from Carman yesterday, I drove some back roads and I stopped somewhere between Homewood and Sperling. I was planning to take some pictures of bean and corn fields, ready to be harvested, but changed my mind. Instead, I took a series of photos of a seldom used rail line, passing through the area. Actually passing through a bean field, at this location. One of the photos is shown below. This rail line was on the back edge of my former home, north of Carman. It's only used a couple of times a week these days, by a small rail road company here in Manitoba.
Several cliches come to mind when I view this photo. My life is finally on track again. I know where I've been and where I'm now going. I'm old but I'm still useful. I've made my bed and now I'm laying in it. There are too many weeds in my life. There's a rocky road ahead. Never look back. Am I reading between the lines? Are you?
After I post this (at 4:45 a.m.!), I think I'll head back to my real bed and try to sleep for a couple more hours. I hope I don't dream about old freight trains ...
Several cliches come to mind when I view this photo. My life is finally on track again. I know where I've been and where I'm now going. I'm old but I'm still useful. I've made my bed and now I'm laying in it. There are too many weeds in my life. There's a rocky road ahead. Never look back. Am I reading between the lines? Are you?
After I post this (at 4:45 a.m.!), I think I'll head back to my real bed and try to sleep for a couple more hours. I hope I don't dream about old freight trains ...
Friday, October 1, 2010
In Praise of Independence
Independence is a rare thing. Margaret J. Wheatley said "we know from science that nothing in the universe exists as an isolated or independent entity". As individuals in Canadian society, none of us is truly independent. We benefit from our interdependence on other members of this society. Our health care is an obvious example of one of these benefits. Nevertheless, we also benefit from independent-minded people. They may be artists, writers, or people who operate their own business. I was once an employee of a large government organization, the City of Winnipeg. I had to answer to bureaucrats above me, elected officials, and, of course, the public I served. Often, I felt like I was between a rock and a hard place, never being able to please everyone at once. Fortunately, I was able to leave that position and open my own consulting business.
I was not truly independent because I still had to work for others. But, at least, I was able to decide, to some degree, who I would work for and what I would do. If someone wanted me to do something and I either didn't want to work for that person or organization or do the kind of work they wanted me to do, I had a simple solution that usually worked: I quoted a price two to three times my going rate. A really outrageous fee meant to politely make the person go away. Once in awhile, I was trapped by that approach when the unwanted client said 'okay, here's the money, the work is yours'. The pill was still bitter, even though it was sugar-coated. But, I would do the work, to the best of my ability. I was, after all, a business person. As long as the work was honest, didn't undermine my principles, and I could make my own conclusions, I would get on with it.
Being a sole proprietor, I came to respect other small business people, people who ran a business, either alone, or with a few employees. Some of these people were trades people, some crafts people, and others retailers. I would preferentially give them my business, even if it cost more, because I recognized and appreciated their desire to be independent. I have various treasured objects, furniture, clothing, and improvements to my home from these people. So, this post is simply written to show my respect for such people. Not everyone can run an independent business. In fact, most people cannot do so. They're more comfortable working for an organization. That's fine. There are other ways to be independent or as independent as one can be in Canada. One way is to save and invest wisely so that you know that you can always walk away from your job at any time if you want to make a change.
I was not truly independent because I still had to work for others. But, at least, I was able to decide, to some degree, who I would work for and what I would do. If someone wanted me to do something and I either didn't want to work for that person or organization or do the kind of work they wanted me to do, I had a simple solution that usually worked: I quoted a price two to three times my going rate. A really outrageous fee meant to politely make the person go away. Once in awhile, I was trapped by that approach when the unwanted client said 'okay, here's the money, the work is yours'. The pill was still bitter, even though it was sugar-coated. But, I would do the work, to the best of my ability. I was, after all, a business person. As long as the work was honest, didn't undermine my principles, and I could make my own conclusions, I would get on with it.
Being a sole proprietor, I came to respect other small business people, people who ran a business, either alone, or with a few employees. Some of these people were trades people, some crafts people, and others retailers. I would preferentially give them my business, even if it cost more, because I recognized and appreciated their desire to be independent. I have various treasured objects, furniture, clothing, and improvements to my home from these people. So, this post is simply written to show my respect for such people. Not everyone can run an independent business. In fact, most people cannot do so. They're more comfortable working for an organization. That's fine. There are other ways to be independent or as independent as one can be in Canada. One way is to save and invest wisely so that you know that you can always walk away from your job at any time if you want to make a change.
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