Mich's West Coast Journal

In Our Neighbourhood

2011-11-08T15:25:00.000-08:00

I would like to share with you a couple of photos I took while out for a walk in our neighbourhood. I happened to catch sight of these darling animals while I stopped for a coffee at our local grocery store. The sheep were waiting for their master and the 'sheep dog' which had been chasing them around a large field. They seemed to be having a jolly time of it.

I now take my camera with me when I go for a walk as I never know who or what I will see along the way.

Happy November everyone and keep warm when outdoors as it certainly is chilly.

Warmest wishes to you. Michelle

Many Colours in My Glass of Water

2011-10-13T10:40:00.000-07:00

This is rather an unusual posting but I thought I should add it, for fun. A few weeks ago I was sitting in my living room, reading a book at the time, with my glass of water. It was a lovely day with dappled sunlight shining through the windows and a ray of sunlight happened to shine through my glass of water for a very brief moment - I quickly grabbed my camera and took a few 'fun' shots. I dabbled with the photos for special effects and this was the outcome.

Thank you for joining me here in my crazy little world ! Warmest wishes. Michelle

A Summery September Day

2011-09-19T19:38:00.000-07:00

Summer arrived a little later than usual this year and we have enjoyed amazing weather for September. The warm summery days do not seem to end and I will find it difficult to relinquish this beautiful weather to the cooler autumn and winter months. My thoughts are still with summer, how can Thanksgiving and Halloween be just around the corner ? Oh well, they are festive and wonderful times of the year to be enjoyed by family and friends !

A couple of weeks ago while visiting family I took a few photos in their beautiful garden. My eye caught sight of a lovely pink poppy that glowed with a delicate radiance from the morning`s gentle sunlight. I was happy that I had my camera on hand at that time as the sun`s rays disappeared behind a tall cedar within minutes of taking the photo. It was a magical moment.

I would like to share these photos with you and thank you so much for visiting my website!

Michelle

Reflections of a Lake

2011-08-31T15:50:00.000-07:00

A few days spent by the water's edge during the warm summer months. These moments we cherish and remember.

The morning air so fresh, the water calm as glass without a ripple in sight. We take in the morning air, coffee in hand, and quietly make our way to the dock. We sit and soak in the spectacular view all around us. The day awakens with stirrings of motor boats in the distance, a kayak glides through the crystal clear glass of water. As the sun slowly moves around in the cloudless sky, a warm gentle breeze picks up and the heat starts to penetrate. I sit under an umbrella on the dock and delve into a book or crossword puzzle. The quiet still morning has now become busy with shrills of children's laughter and splashing in the lake. Oh, what a delight, this is what summer is all about! As the sun moves further around and reflects upon the lake, I watch a show of sparkling crystals dance upon the water. I watch a rainbow of colours in the distance, a sail of a hobie-cat, as it zig-zags its way through the dancing crystals.

The sun makes its way behind the tall cedars, a soft glow fills the evening sky and paints the lake a hue of orange. We are still on the dock, awaiting a star-lit sky. Not a sound to be heard, the breeze now gone, the overhead show of stars reflect as jewels upon the crystal clear lake.

We sit on the dock and await a new day of reflection.

Michelle

A West Coast Summer

2011-08-18T14:25:00.000-07:00

I have recently posted a short story to my other website, Relics and Tales, which I would like to share with you here. We had a very busy summer travelling through the Southern Gulf Islands (west coast of British Columbia) and visiting with family. We enjoyed a few lovely boating trips to our local islands of Saturna, Pender(s) and Salt Spring and other beautiful spots along the way. The islands are magical and we enjoy the rural and quiet environment they offer. We visited a few galleries. shops and enjoyed local organic foods from farm markets. I would like to post a few photos from our trips here.

Thank you for visiting my website. Warmest wishes. Michelle

Sailboat - en route from Pender Island(s)

Sailing regatta, Cowichan Bay

Crew at Cowichan Bay Regatta, July 2011

Crew at Cowichan Bay Regatta, July 2011

Cowichan Bay Regatta

Cowichan Bay Regatta, July 2011

Shop in Cowichan Bay

Shop in Cowichan Bay

Evening Dinner/Boat Trip from Deep Cove to Patricia Bay

Evening cocktails on the top deck

A Day on Pender Island

2011-07-19T09:01:00.000-07:00

Let me jump right into this blog posting by saying that Pender Island is one of my favourite destinations on the Southern Gulf Islands. I immediately fell in love with the island(s) during a recent visit and hope to make this little paradise a place we will visit often. The islands are very picturesque and unspoiled with views of open farmland, rolling hills, beaches, coves and forest - there are many parks on the islands to visit. I enjoyed our drive through the 'enchanted forest nature park' - it truly is 'enchanting'. Our stay on the islands was brief so we were unable to visit many of the parks. For the nature enthusiast, there are plenty of hiking trails and beaches to explore. For the artist, there are many galleries and little shops with pottery, paintings and jewellery for sale.

Richard and I had a lovely stay in a quaint cosy cottage which was tucked away in the woods of rural south Pender. Our little art studio cottage was tastefully decorated with pottery and paintings and the large picture windows framed a lovely country garden. I soaked in the fairytale ambiance of the cottage garden - so lush and green, burgeoning with life and colour; the artful garden gates with arbors and trellises supported billowing roses, grape plants and hops. I felt inspired by these surroundings. The two artists that live here, our hosts, are very kind and talented folks - we want to thank them again for our lovely stay in their cottage.

I have a few photos from our visit to Pender Island. Thank you for visiting this website, I hope you will be charmed and have a chance to visit this special place one day ! Warm wishes to you. Michelle

Cottage in the woods

Country garden

Saturday market on Pender

Community Hall on Pender

Old cottage on Pender

Port Browning marina

One of Penders many coves

Gowlland Point, south Pender Island

Hope Bay cafe and marina

Link to slideshow:

Link to Pender Island Website
(for more information about the islands):

Sounds for Soul

2011-03-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

As I lay awake in bed very early one morning, I started thinking about soothing and happy sounds that would possibly help me drift off to sleep. Counting sheep obviously was not working! Then I thought to myself, could I write these sounds down onto paper ? So, when I woke up that morning…..hours later (I must have drifted off)……… I made the morning coffee then ambled my way to the computer to write “ Sounds for Soul” ( a little corny, but that is what I chose). I have listed a few sounds that stir happy emotion within me, I am sure you can also relate to some of these, if not all.

Sounds that make me feel good….

Rumbling and sputtering of coffee machine,
early in the morning...
voice and laughter of my husband, son and daughter,
I feel comforted by their voice...
chattering and song of bird on a sunny day,
their cheer is infectious...
humming of bumble bee as it busily works flower to flower,
reminds me how fragile and special they are...
burbling and bubbling of rippling ocean waves,
some slap the shore with great gusto...
whooshing wings overhead as raven flies by,
what message does he bare ?
whispering stir of tall grass in a field,
the cricket awaits to sing its song...
gusting winds through tall cedars and firs,
I am reminded of nature’s energy and power...
echoes of foghorn in the distance, a heavy fog hangs,
reminds me of old sea-faring vessel, captain with his pipe...
clanging of rigging on a sailboat mast,
boats gently rock to a gentle breeze...
pattering raindrops on cabin roof,
during cosy evening hours, tucked deep in the woods...
crackling fire on a cool winter’s night,
cuddled by wood stove, with family and friends...
chattering of folks outside at the street café,
reminds me of summers in Spain...
lilting trill of pan pipes played by a local knife-sharpener on his bicycle,
nostalgic memories of Mallorcan days...
children laughing and playing,
their giggle is a gentle tickle to the soul...
music of all sorts, but gentle to the ear,
depends on my mood, what I want to hear...
conversation with family and friends,
new ideas, talk of art, music and world events.

The words “I love you” by those dearest to me.

My love and warm wishes to you all.

A Salt Spring Weekend

2011-03-20T17:17:00.000-07:00

My husband and I just returned from the beautiful island of Salt Spring. We both needed a little break and decided to visit our favourite get-away destination. I had searched the internet for quite some time looking for accommodation and finally found a lovely cottage that suited both our needs - quiet, bright, very clean and arty, it was also very close to the town of Ganges and Fulford Harbour. The owners of the cottage have created a very special space that is cheerful and bright where one can relax and enjoy a quite time by the fireside, or spend meaningful time with family or friends. This little haven is tucked away in a rural paradise - so quiet and peaceful!

I will include a few photos. Though our visit was short, only two days, we both feel better from the break. We love Salt Spring Island and the folks there and want to say a big 'thank you' to the islanders for such kind hospitality and for 'creative inspiration' from the surroundings there - true hallmarks of Salt Spring Island!

Thank you for visiting my website.

Alders of Salt Spring Island (March 2011)

Alders in March

This Alder Keeps an Eye on Things!

Evening Moon - March 19, 2011

By the Fireside

2010-11-30T20:15:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! Farewell to November and a warm welcome to December. This past month was somewhat eventful here on Vancouver Island with howling and chilling winds, snow and rainfall. I was not too keen to venture outdoors these past two weeks and have been rather happy to stay indoors by the fireside! I made up plenty of hot soups and stews to keep our family warm and nourished. We also enjoyed some wonderful meals with our family and friends. Now my thoughts are on Christmas and all the baking, cooking, crafting and decorating that will take up much time over the next month! I do love it though and I feel inspired and creative during this time of year. My Christmas cookbooks are laid out on my kitchen table, favourite recipes are bookmarked and boxes of decorations are stacked in our hallway - all the trinkets ready for their display. I want to wish everyone a happy December 1st (tomorrow) and I hope everyone is beginning to feel the Christmas spirit. May the glow of Christmas come from time we spend with loved ones, our family and dear friends, and those special to us. Take time to relax.

Here is a cat that knows what the meaning of Christmas is all about!! Sit on a favourite chair by the fireside, close your eyes and dream ! The fuzzy cat belongs to my husband's parents, she has run of their house - beware if anyone attempts to sit in her favourite chair by the fireside!!

All that Glitters.....

2010-11-01T18:58:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Happy November 1st and greetings from rainy Vancouver Island. I would like to share with you my latest treasure which I recently discovered in one of Victoria's thrift stores. On occasion, I enjoy stepping into a couple of thrift stores in hopes of finding unusual 'things', which I do not need, but rather enjoy. It seems that I am incurably addicted to sparkly brass and become rather weak in the knees when I see old brass candlesticks. I also love bells and have a small collection which I enjoy listening to - or for decoration. Oh dear. I am certain this 'condition' will soon pass and I will recover. In the meantime, I will keep on collecting until I have no room in our house. I welcome any advice on how to overcome this plight. Thank you!

This blog entry is a little different than my previous entries, but, it is all in fun and that is what we are here for at "Mich's West Coast Journal". We must have fun and do what makes us happy - right !

Here are a couple of brass bells and candlestick photos! Thank you for visiting and sharing in the fun. Warmest wishes. Michelle

Pumpkins and Apples

2010-10-23T11:41:00.000-07:00

Hello again! Apologies for my absence these past few months. I have been working on my other blog "Relics and Tales" - you will often find me over there. I have not forgotten "Mich's West Coast Journal" as I love to spend time here to read other blogs and be inspired by creative ideas and adventures. Now that we are in the Fall season, I feel inspired to crochet - a hobby I have enjoyed since childhood. The choice of beautiful yarns is sometimes overwhelming - the variety of textures and colours of yarns sends my mind into a creative frenzy. I often start to crochet and become so immersed into it that I forget about the world around me! I feel happy surrounded by colourful yarns. The autumnal colours of Fall are part of this creative inspiration.

2010 seems like a blur, where did it go? We are now in the middle of my favourite season (apart from Spring). The trees are glowing in golden and red hues, there is a slight chill in the air. I see pumpkins in the fields and in the stores - a reminder of Halloween and other autumn festivities. This time of the year conjures up images of pumpkin pie and apple crisp, cool brisk walks in the great outdoors, and happy occasions with family and friends. I would like to post a few pumpkin photos which I took last year and to wish everyone a happy and safe Halloween.

Thank you for visiting me here. Warm wishes to everyone! Michelle

Pumpkins on our Bench

Giant Pumpkin - Wave Hill Farm, Salt Spring Island

Giant pumpkin - Wave Hill Farm, Salt Spring Island

Field of Pumpkins - Saanichton

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Oh fairies, pixies and elves tonight
do not venture out or you may get a fright
‘tis an evening for witches on broomsticks to fly
and phantoms to whisper and gently drift by
do not be frightened by the lament of groaning trees
or the screeching owl or rustling of leaves
uneasy winds rattle doors and swing lonely gates
causing villains and goblins to run in haste
shadows are cast and the moon is aglow
this evening is ready for its spooky show
oh jack-o-lanterns help light the way through
this dark and chilling night
protect fairies, pixies and elves
from too frightening a sight!
- by Michelle (me)

Sojourn to Saturna Island

2010-08-09T20:54:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I have not posted for a while as it has been a very busy and rather enjoyable summer here on the west coast. I hope everyone is enjoying their summer - wherever you may be in this world! We had a lovely boat trip with family over to Saturna Island, another one of our beautiful Gulf Islands in British Columbia. My husband's cousin invited us to join them for a visit to the Saturna winery and spend the weekend aboard their 40 ft classic wooden boat. What a fun time we had! After tying the boat at the Saturna dock, we ambled our way to the winery. The extensive 60-acres of vineyards, rolling hills of vines and sparking ocean beyond, reminded me of the Mediterranean. It was a warm day with blue skies, not a cloud hovered in sight. We eventually made our way to the winery, sampled their local wines and enjoyed a light lunch out on the deck. View of vineyards and ocean, fun conversation with cousins Kim and Gail, made it a most wonderful and enjoyable afternoon. The day did not end there.....

We staggered back (just kidding) to the boat and made our way to Maple Bay where we spent a most enjoyable afternoon on the dock - swim in the ocean, barbecue and evening of laughter and conversation. We spent the night on board the boat. The following morning after a delicious breakfast of pancakes, bacon and eggs, we ventured out for a walk. I was more than happy about not meeting up with bears or cougars along the pathway, but we did meet up with a few llamas! Fergus, the dog, and the group of llamas were very curious about each other - they exchanged a few glances then we continued on our merry walk. We stopped along the way and had coffee with neighbours, then headed back to the boat. The men went for a swim and lingered by waters' edge for a few hours, reminisced about old times....then it was time to leave.

I will post a few photos from our trip. Thanks for viewing and happy summer everyone!

Kim at the helm

Portion of the Saturna vineyard

Sampling room

Patio overlooking the vineyards and ocean

Visitors enjoying glasses of wine and lunch

Spectacular ocean view

Gail - on her way back to the boat

Near Maple Bay

Off we go for a ride in Eva - Kim's small boat

Mt. Baker looming in the distance

Colourful Salt Spring Market

2010-07-04T12:34:00.000-07:00

Breakfast at Barb's Buns Cafe in Ganges, Salt Spring

See Slide Show (Click here)

We had a lovely weekend here on the west coast. This was the first weekend of July and a time of celebration for many. Saturday was warm and sunny, for a change! My daughter and I ventured over to Salt Spring Island, one of our favourite destinations which is only forty-five minutes from our front door. We often travel there for a days visit or stay a few days for a short getaway. Saturday is busy and bustling with artisans and shoppers at the Ganges market, it is a marvelous event and is fun for folks of every age. Our first visit on Salt Spring was to Barb's Buns Cafe for a leisurely breakfast and to purchase coffee beans and few goodies from their bakery. The market was our next destination - a colourful and cheerful place to be! We enjoyed live music in the park and a stroll along the harbourside boardwalk. The lovely park looks out to Ganges harbour, a Mediterranean setting with charming view, dotted with sailboats and a gentle breeze blowing through. There are cafes, restaurants and food kiosks - a plethora of food venues to suit the hungry visitor. It was another lovely visit to the island. I always look forward to the sights, sounds and scents that tantalize the senses. I had my fill of lavender scent, ocean breeze, colourful artisan kiosks and world beat music for one day - I will be ready for it again soon!! Thanks for visiting me here, I enjoy sharing this with you. My warmest wishes to everyone. Michelle.

Roses in June

2010-06-29T21:52:00.000-07:00

Roses in June are such a delight - they are delicate, beautiful and fill the air with sweet scent. I enjoy this month for it is the beginning of summer, we celebrate the longest day of the year and we spend most of our time outside in our garden. Tomorrow is the last day of June, then we will be celebrating Canada Day on July 1st. I would like to share a few of our roses here. Happy Canada Day! Thanks for visiting! Michelle

Akiko's Garden

2010-06-17T18:20:00.000-07:00

Let me take you on a small journey to a lovely and enchanting garden that belongs to a very special and talented lady. My dear friend, Akiko, a gardener and artist, has turned her garden into a magical place. I always feel inspired when I visit there and am reminded of an Impressionist painting. Winding pathways meander through flower beds full of colour and scent, lush grasses, purple irises, poppies and peony bushes border along the pathways; roses ramble over arbours and gates and clematis climbs up fences and posts. Thyme and mint fill little nooks and crannies. No space is without colour. This truly is a place for gardener and artist. Thank you dear Akiko for being such a wonderful inspiration to all of us through your art and garden. Michelle

A Magical Garden - by Michelle

Morning dew like jewels glisten
The night now gone, the sun has risen
Warm licking arms of golden ray
Awaken dear garden this glorious day

Song of bird, lilting from the tree
Sky so blue, you set out free
Your home is apple, oak or fir
Your little ones, in nest they stir

Purple and yellow Iris I see
Tall spires of grass and peony tree
Orange, coral and fuzzy poppies grow
Sun on their face, their colours aglow

Red gate and pathway lie beyond
To a magical place where treasures are found
If you follow the path you might just see
The big grey owl who lives in the tree

I watch a flickering and lively sight
Hummingbird’s tasting honeysuckle’s delight
Along ground’s edge creeping woolly thyme
Bees dancing in clover, nectar divine

Red roses and white, pink, crimson hue
Clamber up and over, the clematis too
Its vine intertwined and reaching so far
Hang Royal velvet and soft purple star

The scent in the air is ever so sweet
Of rose, new grass and mint under feet
Lavender, thyme and rosemary grow
The kale and lettuce, all in a row

The pathway ends near the raspberry patch
Behind blueberry, strawberry in cage with latch
Beyond I see the red garden gate
Under rose and arbour, more treasures await

When evening casts it shadows of trees
Last rays shine golden on their leaves
Flowers glimmer and stand in last light
Tuck in their heads and say a good night

Little Bird on Our Deck

2010-06-09T21:34:00.000-07:00

The sweetest little baby bird appeared on the railing of our sundeck a couple of nights ago, I believe it was a swallow, but I could be mistaken. It was sleepy and trying to nap, kept tucking its little head under its wing. Our cat eyed it with eager anticipation but we distracted her before it was too late! I managed to sneak up and take a few pictures of the sweet little bird. It was so downy and soft.

Thanks for viewing! Michelle

Palmy West Coast

2010-06-01T21:21:00.000-07:00

Well, it is June 1st today. May disappeared into a wet and misty blur. We had a very wet month here on the 'wet' coast of B.C. The rain was needed and the plants are thriving and growing quickly because of so much rain, mist and occasional outburst of sunshine. I took some pictures of our Windmill Palm today (Trachycarpus Fortunei), it is so pretty and has a thick mat of yellow fluffy flowers - quite a lovely sight - it looks like a thick knitted woolly sweater wrapped around the tree's neck. Here are my pictures from today of our west coast palm.

Happy June 1st to everyone and thank you for stopping by to visit me. Michelle

May Day in our Garden

2010-05-24T12:12:00.000-07:00

Greetings everyone! Today is Victoria Day and we have a long weekend holiday. I was asked by another gardening blogger the name of a buddleia plant in our garden, it is an unusual buddleia that has orange globe-shaped flowers rather than the usual cone-shaped panicles. It is a hardy plant and the bees love it. I took a few photos yesterday and would like to share them with you. There is quite a lot of information on the Internet about the orange globe buddleia, or buddleia globosa. It is an attractive bush and adds much charm to the garden.

I was playing around with a virtual art program and distorted some of my photos - I had fun playing around with this art program. I will include a few of my own 'virtual art' watercolours (at the bottom of this posting) for Mosaic Monday at the dear Little Red House. Thank you for hosting many wonderful blogs and very talented folks.

Thank you for viewing my photos and happy Victoria Day. Michelle

Buddleia Globosa - click here to see Wikipedia description

A Wet Coast Day in May

2010-05-19T17:18:00.000-07:00

It has been cool and wet this month of May. I am happy for the rain as our garden has been very dry. The rain did subside for a short while today and I took the opportunity to take a few photos in our back property. The white lilac is blooming and the buddleias are just starting to flower. I caught sight of bees in the lavender. The kale, Swiss chard and lettuce, which I planted by seed not long ago, will soon be ready for picking. Some areas where I weeded only a few days ago are now in need of weeding again! Oh well, I guess weeds have their place in this world too! Some weeds are edible and provide nutrition and other health benefits. I would like to share with you my photographs from today.

Happy month of May everyone and thank you for viewing my website.

My Croton - Beautiful Plant

2010-05-18T20:25:00.000-07:00

We have a beautiful Croton (no, not an alien - a tropical plant with a funny name) in our sun room that is so colourful and beautiful - it is a focal point in our sun room. The sun shines in and casts a warm light upon the plant's beautiful green, yellow and pink leaves. It is surrounded by windows that look out to our back property where the background is lush and green with Springs new growth and new foliage on trees. I cannot help but feel overwhelmed with happiness at this time of year. For some reason as each year passes me by, I fall more in love with nature - plants, trees, flowers, weeds, birds, some bugs (not all), all of nature's gifts that thrive and live in a natural environment. I feel very fortunate to be part of it all.

I grabbed my camera one afternoon, while the sun was shining through our sun room, to photograph underneath the leaves of our Croton. I was amazed at the colour and intricacy of each leaf! There is another world happening inside of each leaf.

Here are a few photos which my camera and I took that afternoon. Thank you for viewing! These aren't 'flowers' but 'leaves' this time! My best wishes to you all. Michelle

A Mother's Day Wish

2010-05-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

A Mother’s Day Wish
- by Michelle (me)

Time to honour and to say a big thank-you
To our Mothers, Grandmothers and our Great ones too
Not to forget those special women in our lives
Our neighbour, our aunts, our sisters and friends
Whose love and kindness knows no end

These special women have guided us through our years
From infants to adults, with much laughter, some tears
Watching over and guiding, always keeping in mind
To be considerate of others, and always be kind

For our world is made a much better place
When one is taught through compassion, gentleness and grace
These traits of a Mother are synonymous and true
As a beacon of light that guides us through

My Mother’s Day wish is full of love
To our Mothers, Grandmothers and our Great ones, now above
To our children, their children, and generations yet to be
A Mother’s love knows no bounds when it comes to family
I embrace you with warm and gentle loving arms
And wish for your happiness…..thank you dear Moms

Joy's Tulips

2010-05-05T19:42:00.000-07:00

I love tulips! They are so pretty, vibrant and such a cheerful introduction to Spring. Most of our cheery tulips vanished to foraging deer, they seem to delight in them as well! Oh dear. I was lucky to have the opportunity to take a few photos of Spring tulips at my mother-in-law's house. Thank you Joy for sharing your beautiful tulips.

I want to dedicate this blog entry to our Mothers and to the special women who have influenced our lives. Thank you to our Mothers for their unrelenting love, kindness and wisdom throughout our lives. We would not be where we are today without your guidance and encouragement. Thank you Moms for keeping the peace, giving advice when needed, providing a shoulder to cry on and for sharing so many happy times together. We look forward to so many more happy times ahead! We love you!!

Happy Mother's Day from all of us. Michelle

Flowery Mosaics for Monday

2010-04-25T12:33:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures for Mosaic Monday. I put these together from recent photos, plus a few of my older ones. Thank you for visiting my website. Happy Monday and week ahead. I will be adding more photos and stories this coming week. Please visit my other website "Relics and Tales" where my father-in-law and myself are putting together stories of true events. It is very different than this blog and a little unusual, we have many interesting stories ahead which we will be adding to it.

Please visit the Little Red House for more mosaics from around the world. Thanks again. Michelle

I love Hellebores

2010-04-24T19:01:00.000-07:00

I love hellebores. They are such an interesting and beautiful plant which add a very special touch to the garden. I have a few which I purchased over the years, many from a yearly Spring plant sale held in our community, where the prices were unbeatable - this made it very tempting for me to buy more than one plant! They are hardy and the deer don't bother them.

Here are a couple of close-up pictures. Their colours are truly amazing.

Lemon Balm - Growing Like a Weed on the West Coast

2010-04-19T21:17:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year again where everything in the garden is sprouting like mad. One plant I want to write about here is lemon balm - it is growing everywhere in our back garden. I don't like to yank it out because it is such a special plant, it smells so fresh and makes a healthy tea. I read about this plant, its medicinal and soothing qualities and I am absolutely thrilled to have this growing in abundance. Both Richard and I love teas, we are 'tea toddlers' during the week and usually drink organic herbal teas. I am anxious to make our own from what grows in our own back yard - mints and lemon balm are a good start. There are oodles of websites on herbs and teas - if anyone has recommendations on this subject, I welcome your input. I welcome knowledge and advice from other gardeners, herbalists and organic growers - I am always learning and there is so much more to learn! I will also share with you my 'tea toddling' stories!

Here is one site I found (there are SO many websites on lemon balm) ...click here to view.
Tomorrow I will venture out to our back garden to add a few photos here. I am off to bed now....feel very sleepy after herbal tea......night! Thank you for visiting Mich's West Coast Journal. Michelle

Lemon Balm

The deer were kind and left us with one tulip!

Lemon Balm Tea

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

2 Cups lemon balm leaves, fresh
Honey or other sweetener
Water

Preparation:

Bring 8 cups water to a boil, and add the leaves. Reduce heat and allow to steep for about 15 minutes. Strain leaves out, and then add honey or other sweetener to taste. If the tea is too strong, add a bit of water to thin it out. Pour into an ice-filled pitcher and serve. You may want to add a sprig of mint for garnish.

Gumboot Mama

2010-04-12T22:33:00.001-07:00

This journal entry is a little different than most. I am having some difficulty here as I will not be adding colourful flower photos. There will be more opportunity to add nature's beauty in future postings. I want to write about 'gumboots' - a silly subject but rather delightful too! The other day I was looking at my gumboots and thinking what great companions they are to me. My gumboots, or wellies, are there for me when I need them - I slip into them before heading outside and they keep my feet warm and dry on those nasty wet days. I have even ventured into town wearing them! How can I forget some years ago, my son was horrified to see me wearing gumboots before our trip to town - the look of shock and embarrassment was too funny. My son, Stephen, pleaded with me to change my shoes. I did change them as I did not want to embarrass him. When on my own, I don't worry what others may think - gumboots, big woolly sweater, and wind-tousled hair - call me 'Gumboot Mama'!

Well, I wrote another poem, inspired by my boots of course! I would like to share it with you. Thank you for viewing my website, I really do appreciate it when you pop in to visit. Michelle

"Gumboot Mama"
by Michelle (me)

I’m a gumboot mama
And I am proud to say
I wear my gummies at work or play
With dress or slacks they wear so well
Town folk call me the country belle

My son embarrassed, how can it be
When we travel to town, wellies and me
Oh please Mama, change your shoes
Dressy or casual, I’ll help you choose

I’ll wear a parka, long, past the knee
Don’t feel embarrassed to be seen with me
Please son walk along my side
Not behind or in front to hide

Comfort and warmth is what I seek
For no other shoe can truly beat
These green rubbery boots of mine
Which match my woolly dress just fine

My feet stay warm, my feet stay dry
Through puddled lanes and marsh nearby
On muddy grounds the bottoms stick
They squish through layers of mud so thick

One time my boot it stayed behind
Bare foot slipped out, it felt unkind
On ground so cold, so damp and deep
The oozing mud and dung of sheep

The fields and lanes will soon be dry
Too warm for wellie friends and I
We’ll soon depart, a sorrowful thought
But we’ll meet again, when it’s not so hot

For now let's take a walk to town
In cool morning air of early dawn
Kind gestures and smiles from town folk I see
For the gumboot mama, green wellies…. that’s me !

Please teach me the gumboot dance!

Gumboot dancing, which originated in South Africa, would be a wonderful dance to learn for us west coast folks that enjoy wearing gumboots. Click here for a small glimpse of 'gumboot dancing'.

For a brief history of gumboots....please click here. Thank you.

Pastel Lights for Mosaic Monday

2010-04-05T12:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter everyone! It is a beautiful Monday morning and windy storms are behind us now. I have not posted to Mosaic Monday for a while and thought I should catch up and say hello. We had a lovely dinner with family last night and I would like to express how much I appreciate and love our families. It is a time to reflect on loved ones and dear friends and to be thankful for those near to us. We recently lost a very close friend, like family to us, it has been a very difficult two weeks since his passing. This person was so dear to us all, we will certainly feel a huge void in our lives without him. There is a Native American saying that "We will be known forever by the tracks we leave" (Dakota), and this dear friend left huge tracks in all of our hearts, happy tracks of kindness and sharing. May we all leave happy tracks and be remembered for our good deeds, a smile, helping someone in need or just being there to listen to others. Most of all, take time to be happy with those we love.

Please visit The Little Red House to view beautiful mosaics from around our world. Thank you and happy Easter from the west coast! Michelle

Wind Storm on the West Coast

2010-04-04T12:09:00.000-07:00

Our west coast was hit by a big wind storm a couple of days ago and it was very blustery! Fortunately, we had no damage and survived the storm okay, our power did not go out but there were broken branches and debris scattered everywhere. It was a day to be indoors by the fireside, book in hand. My husband asked if I was interested in going out for a walk that day (we live in a rural place with many tall firs and cedars) - I declined the walk! Certain parts on Vancouver Island were not as fortunate and suffered much damage and power outages. My heart goes to the folks in Mill Bay whose boats were destroyed and where looters went in to steal.

There is a stillness in the air now and the trees aren't swaying to and fro. The birds were merrily singing this morning as we sat outside with our coffee. I just hope and pray that bird nests were not disturbed in the violent storm.

Best wishes to everyone! Happy Easter. Thanks for visiting my website. Michelle

The wind it howls, the wind it blows
A mighty outburst it bestows
Through trees, through hilltops
It finds its way
The tempest swept our island today

The cedars creek, the firs they bend
When will this frenzy ever end
Disturbed from quiet upon their sleep
Winged critters take refuge in forests deep

An open rage against the sea
The tug and sail are now set free
Quaint harbours once a pretty sight
Are battered and torn, a woeful plight

This day now past, the tempest gone
Its anger made a show
It now gently whispers
It's time for us to go

- a poem by Michelle (me)

Tatlow's Blossoms

2010-03-28T00:46:00.000-07:00

There is a quaint country road in our area that is a magical sight at this time of year with its pale pink blossoms, willows and white picket fence line. It is a distraction for anyone driving alongside the stand of trees where the branches are dripping in a haze of pale, almost white, blossoms. The trees are maturing and each year their show is more magnificent. I drove through this fairy-like road a few days ago and stopped to admire the view. I stood underneath one of the trees, immersed in a cloud of pale pink and white, it was beautiful! I was so happy to hear the buzzing of bees, busy at work, as I have not heard this sound for a couple of years, possibly due to the reduction in the bee population. This is a magical time of year and the beauty of nature causes me to sometimes reflect on life and the life-cycle, the seasons and the ebb and flow of nature. As the ocean, the tides roll in and roll out, the seasons roll in gracefully with renewed energy and beauty during spring and summer and roll back out during the onset of winter, only to repeat the cycle year after year. We are sad when the blossoms fall, or when the colourful autumn leaves fall to the ground - leaving a dark, barren-like environment, where life-force suddenly disappears. Rest assured, the life-force is still there and is preparing for a new year ahead.

Sunday's Bouquet

2010-03-22T22:58:00.000-07:00

I cannot help it. Here are a few more flower pictures! Our red camellia is in full bloom and is so lovely outside our hallway window - it is a rather large bush and is now 26 years old (same age as our daughter). The peach tree has pretty pink blossoms and the daffodils are in full display. Before our tulips show their pretty tops, I know they will quickly disappear as they are a treat for foraging deer. Ho hum.

Here are a couple of pictures I took on a lovely Sunday afternoon. Thank you for viewing, I appreciate you visiting my blog. Michelle

Mosaic Monday

2010-03-15T19:13:00.000-07:00

I have not posted to Mosaic Monday for quite a while. Here are a couple of mosaics from my latest blossom pictures. I hope to get outdoors when the rain subsides to take more pictures. Until then, I will post these for now. Thanks for viewing! Please visit the The Little Red House website for more interesting mosaics from around the world.

Michelle

White Blossoms on a Cloudy Day

2010-03-13T13:35:00.000-08:00

We had a sprinkling of snow yesterday, March 12, then the sun appeared and warmed the earth and our spirits. One of our plum trees is blossoming and looks so pretty against the blue sky and the cumulus clouds were quite stunning. My little camera was happy once again to snap a few pictures - where would I be without my little camera?

The west coast is a charming place to be, rain or shine. Thank you for stopping by and visiting my journal. Michelle

The plum the cherry and every tree in sight
your branches once bare, are now pink and white
It’s time to awaken from your wintery slumber
your blossoms delicate and so many to number

A gentle breeze sweeps, few raindrops fall
blossoms, not disturbed, adorn trees so tall
Your colours they shimmer against skies so blue
the plum, the cherry and the peach tree too

Your show is not finished until life force decides
when your beauty, so fleeting, quickly subsides
Thank you for this blessing and the joy you bring
from all of us and the birds that sing!
- by me (Michelle)

Pink Blossoms on a Cool March Day

2010-03-08T19:59:00.000-08:00

Our weather has been very strange - we had a mixed bag of sorts today - frosty windshield this morning, then the sun came out and it was lovely with blue skies. Then, later in the day, drama unfolded..... it started to snow......it appeared as if little pieces of white paper drifted down from the sky; it hailed, rained and snowed.....then the sun came out as if nothing had happened. After work, I met up with Richard at his parent's house as I wanted to take photos of their lovely plum tree which is in full bloom - it is a magnificent tree that puts on a show of pink for a short while, then the blossoms disappear. Here is the tree in all its glory! It was very cool out.

Thank you for viewing. Michelle

A Blossomy Evening...

2010-03-03T20:34:00.000-08:00

Our trees are blossoming a month earlier than usual and all of Victoria is a bloomin' sight to behold! Our property is situated a little higher in elevation so our blossoms are usually a week or two behind. I ran out to our backyard yesterday evening to capture a couple of pink blossoms - they are just starting to open up. There was not much light so these pictures are a little dark.
Thanks for viewing! Michelle

A Day in My Garden

2010-02-16T19:12:00.000-08:00

I had a lovely day in my garden today. I paused from daily chores to enjoy the sun's warmth on my face and noticed bumble bees, birds and the two resident rabbits enjoying the sun as well. True happiness. Fortunately, I had camera in hand and took a couple of photos, which I will add here. I believe nothing in this world gives me more pleasure (besides spending time with my husband and family) than to be outdoors. I feel it is important to pause from the everyday nonsense and rigmarole that so often takes a hold of us and which can slowly drain a person of energy. Take a breather - get outdoors and spend a moment, or two, to observe what is around you - the singing bird, the bumble bee immersed in a flower, the colour of the flower, the blue sky. This was my day today. Oh yes, I did manage to do a little gardening!

Here are a couple of photos I took this afternoon. Thanks for viewing! Michelle

Collecting and saving food seeds

2010-02-16T09:35:00.000-08:00

Just a quick blog entry here as I would like to share this website with those interested in saving plant seeds. These short clips come from Salt Spring Island. It is a beautiful February morning here on the west coast and I have some gardening to do today - I must take advantage of our sunny weather. The weather man said this is the warmest winter we have had in approximately 130 years! I love it! Not good for the Vancouver winter Olympics though.

Here is the website mentioned above - please click on the left-side links to see the short video clips. Enjoy! Thanks for viewing. Michelle

Seed saving videos from Raven

As Winter Sighs Its Last Breath...

2010-02-09T10:29:00.000-08:00

"Every gardener knows that under the cloak of winter lies a miracle ... a seed waiting to sprout, a bulb opening to the light, a bud straining to unfurl. And the anticipation nurtures our dream."
- Barbara Winkler

Edible Weeds

2010-02-05T14:41:00.000-08:00

It's the time of year when I am thinking about our garden and all the work that needs to be done to prepare it for the season ahead. Phew, I am exhausted just thinking about it!! I have been reading some interesting literature about gardening, growing foods, saving plant seeds, and edible weeds. I came across an interesting website that lists some edible weeds - I find this subject quite fascinating and want to learn as much as I can. My feelings have changed towards those invasive dandelions, cleavers, thistles and other weeds which I considered to be a nuisance and would spend hours of my precious time yanking out of my flower beds. I am aware of the importance of these 'invaders' and how they are a valuable source of food, nutrition and healing - they could save a life in a dire situation where no food would be available (in an extreme situation). One needs to have knowledge of which weeds are safe or noxious. I am not about to run out to my yard and start chomping on thistles, or serve them for dinner to our guests - yet. I would like to add here one website for those who may be interested in weeds. Who knows, you may enjoy having them pop up in your garden - and save yourself hours of work yanking them out! Let them live! Edible Flower Plants of the Pacific Northwest.

Another great little book I recently purchased is Food Security for the Faint of Heart by Robin Wheeler (from B.C.), this book has loads of information on how to grow your own food and what supplies one needs in the event of a crisis.

Our First Nations people were able to live from the land, their food supply came from the earth around them - they did not have a local grocer or supermarket. Makes me ponder - how would we survive if we did not grow food locally or have our supermarkets to drive to? By growing food locally and not driving a great distance to our local supermarket, we certainly would save on fuel costs and lessen our carbon footprint (I know for many folks there are no other options). Health problems that are plaguing society would be less of a problem through proper nutrition and healthy lifestyle. Lots to think about. Back to my garden......I am buying veggie and herb seeds now, I have a long list of goodies I want to plant. The dandelions will present their yellow heads and we will not disturb them - the two rabbits that have taken refuge on our property will chomp their merry way through hundreds of them (maybe leave a few for us ?) and will hopefully not catch sight of our lettuce patch!

Thank you for visiting my journal. I will keep you posted on how our weeds are growing. Michelle

'twas a foggy mornin' on the west coast

2010-01-31T12:28:00.000-08:00

I love the fog. Reminds me of old sea tales. The B.C. ferries blow their fog horn in the distance, we can hear it echo. We had a lovely Sunday morning and enjoyed a fresh pot of coffee. I took a couple of pictures for this posting. Thanks for viewing! Michelle

Feels Like Spring

2010-01-23T12:44:00.000-08:00

Here I am on my computer and it is a beautiful sunny day. We sat outside - Richard, our cat and I - with our cup of coffee this morning and it was so nice to feel the warmth of the sun. Blossoms are now appearing on the trees. It is time to start thinking about the garden and what to plant for the summer and winter ahead. I am not an avid gardener but do enjoy growing a few vegetables and love my perennials that faithfully show themselves every year. We share our garden with a few bunnies, raccoons and deer - they do help themselves and make a mess of things - very disappointing at times. Both Richard and I truly love our little piece of paradise here, there is nothing more satisfying than spending time with nature. I recently ordered a few seeds from a wonderful seed supplier on Salt Spring Island - I highly recommend their seeds for anyone interested in heritage and heirloom seeds and for those that are interested in saving seeds for our future - something very important to think about nowadays. Unfortunately, these seeds cannot be ordered through the U.S. but their website does recommend a couple of places in the U.S. where you can find heritage seeds. Here is the link to their website: Salt Spring Seeds

I made up a couple of collages from pictures taken last year. I look forward to a new year ahead with lots of new photos! Thanks for viewing. Michelle

Blue Skies

2010-01-19T12:19:00.000-08:00

I really enjoy this time of year, as I do each season, and I am now looking forward to Spring with blue skies and pink blossoms. I put together a couple of mosaics - one of 'blue skies' - pictures taken last year - and one of lupins. It is 'mosaic Monday' and I look forward to viewing other mosaics from around the world on the 'Little R ed House' . Thanks for viewing. Michelle

Hearth Side Mosaic Monday

2010-01-12T11:56:00.001-08:00

Happy new year everyone. Here are a couple of hearth-side photos for mosaic Monday - colours to keep you warm. I was playing around with my camera late last night and came up with these funny pictures. Please visit the Little Red House blog to view other mosaics from around the world! Thank you.

Creative Inspiration

2010-01-11T18:11:00.000-08:00

The new year is here and I feel a renewed sense of inspiration, creative energy and hope for the months ahead . I feel a warm glow inside and am happy. I have a wonderful husband and family and am truly blessed to have them in my life. I look forward to a new 'blogging' year and hope to meet other bloggers that share my enthusiasm for life. We are fortunate to have this opportunity to share and learn from each other and to express our creative ideas through writing, photography, music, gardening, recipes, paintings and so much more - these are so important to our nurturing, well-being and happiness. Thank you dear blogger for sharing your stories and inspirations. I look forward to our year ahead.

The following images were taken late this evening - I was experimenting! It is a time of year when the days are shorter and I rather enjoy the cosiness of indoors. I feel inspired by rich and warm colours of wood, wools and leather - anber, golden and dark browns. These are my hearth-side colours that keep me warm. Thank you for viewing. Michelle

It's a New Year - Happy 2010

2010-01-09T17:58:00.000-08:00

Well.....2009 has come, and gone. Happy new year everyone. I apologise that I have been away from my blog for so long - I am now back and have lots to look forward to this coming year. Our family had a delightful and very busy Christmas. How was your Christmas? I hope that everyone is ready for a busy and fun-filled blogging year ahead. I look forward to reading as many blogs as pososible and journeying with you via your stories and photos.

Must go now.....putting away the final Christmas and New Year decorations tonight!

Best wishes...... Michelle.

A Tree's Christmas Message

2009-12-01T12:52:00.000-08:00

Thank you Douglas, Fraser and Noble fir
Spruce, Ponderosa and Scotch pine
your scent is fresh, you stand divine
your branches, like limbs, bend and bow
with frosty tips and new fallen snow
Your forest is silent on this cool winter night
wee critters are ushered under blanket of white
take refuge dear bunnies, birds and deer
under strong graceful arms of fir and pine near
do not be afraid as they love you so
‘tis a season of happiness, they wish you to know

Merry Christmas
Michelle (me)

O Tannenbaum - Vienna Boys Choir
click here to listen

Hints of Christmas

2009-11-29T14:31:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe there are so few days left of November and it is countdown to Christmas! I love this season and all the joy that accompanies this time of year. Out come the decorations ( it seems only a short while ago we packed them all away) and up go the colourful lights; cedar boughs, berries and all the beautiful Christmassy greenery from outdoors are collected for making wreaths. It is also time to start planning for baking of mince and cranberry tarts, lemon curd, shortbread and stollen - only to mention a few! I enjoy most of all the gathering of family and friends and watching children as they revel in all the excitement - it is a magical time for many of us. The joy of sharing and helping others is the greatest gift of all. My wish for this season is for happiness and love for all.

In the Woods - Mosaic Monday

2009-11-23T19:50:00.000-08:00

It has been one week since I last posted to my journal. We have had some serious rainfall these past few days on the west coast and experienced a rather exciting lightning storm on Friday evening - lots of activity in our sky lately. I rather enjoyed watching the storm - with some trepidation - but was happy to be indoors. Our poor little cat was tightly curled up under our dining room table, nestled securely on her favourite pillow - she did not enjoy the storm!

The skies cleared enough on Sunday that we were able to get outside and explore the little forest park which is a minute's walk from our property. There are many trails that meander through the park and which lead this way....and that way....up hills.....and down hills. There is a marvelous view from the top of the hill, where one can sit and look down upon Gary oaks and evergreen trees, the town of Sidney and the Patricia Bay inlet and the outer islands. The park is very typical of our west coast with ferns, cedars, arbutus, firs and abundant plant life with wildflowers that are quite impressive during the early Spring; also, for mushroom fans, it is a photographer's paradise. I admit that I am a little squeamish around fungi but am impressed by the variety of shapes, sizes and colours of mushrooms that seem to grow in the oddest of places. I love the wispy fairy-like lichen that hangs from fine branches and the emerald green moss that coats bare branches. I have a few photos that I will post for this journal entry. My intention was to take photos of pine cones and cedar boughs as we are nearing the Christmas season. The scent of cedar in the woods and the colours of the trees and natural vegetation fills me with such a wonderful 'Christmassy' feeling - the spirit of Christmas becomes so alive to me in such a natural environment.

Please check out the Little Red House for Mosaic Monday.

Here is a recipe I would like to share which comes from the CBC radio (All Points West), hosted by Jo-Ann Roberts with her special guest Troy Townsin. Every Monday afternoon I eagerly listen for his new recipes (I am usually in the midst of driving home so cannot write them down - fortunately their website has all of Troy's recipes which are printable).

Walnut and Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breasts with Chardonnay Butter
(from Troy Townsin) - click here for printable recipe

Thank you for viewing! Michelle

The Arbutus sheds its red bark to reveal smo oth texture underne ath
click link here to read about the Arbutus tree

Mosaic Monday

2009-11-16T19:52:00.000-08:00

There is a warm glow on this autumn night, we are cosy and dry by our fireside light...
we have finished dining and are ready for bed...
but I must post these pictures and my book must be read...
my thoughts they drift like a gentle breeze, of summer's flowers and autumn's leaves...
for these I must arrange below in a colourful mosaic good enough to show...
I wish you all a happy end to this day.....
and warm wishes and love I wish to convey.

Good evening to you and will see you again! Thank you dear Little Red House for your wonderful blog!

This mosaic is a compilation of my 'autumn' photographs. Thank you for viewing. Michelle

Michelle's Autumn Medley

Sunflower and Clouds

Lentil and Vegetable Soup

2009-11-15T14:05:00.000-08:00

We are now settling into wintery weather and I am dreaming about food and craving thick home-made vegetable soup - my mother just happened to send me an email with a wonderful recipe for lentil and vegetable soup - which I would like to share with you. As a child growing up in the Spanish islands with my mother and sister, we traditionally had lentil or garbanzo bean soup as a starter to our main meal which we usually ate during mid-afternoon. Some of my fondest memories of living in Spain are of the food we ate - I certainly do miss Spanish meals but once in a while I try to recreate a few of my favourite recipes (with help from my mother who lives in the Canary Islands). I will be posting recipes throughout my journal and will be asking advice from my mother who has a very large ecclectic collection of tasty and delightful recipes. Let's start with this recipe. Thanks for viewing (and tasting!).

LENTIL VEGETABLE SOUP
(recipe and photo from Sharon's Tenerife Journal
- click here to visit website)

printable recipe - click here

Ingredients:

lentils - 250 grams (slightly over 1 cup)
garlic - one whole head
onion - 1 large - quartered
Kasseler smoked pork chop - 1 large (or 250 grams other smoked pork or bacon)
ham or pork bone as for making stock
4 medium carrots - sliced into coins
2 stalks celery - diced
5 medium potatoes - peeled and cut into 8ths
6 flowerettes of cauliflower
green beans - handful sliced
tomato puré - small 4 oz tin
olive oil - 4 TBS
fresh garden herbs: 1 bay leaf, several sprigs thyme, Italian flatleaf parsley 2 or 3 sprigs
chicken stock 1 liter (4 cups) or water and 3 Knorr chicken stock cubes
salt & fesh ground pepper
water to cook lentils
vinegar - 1 teasp
garlic croutons - optional garnish

Method:

Turn on oven to 350F. Put lentils in large heavy bottomed stew pot with water to cover plus about 2 inches, bring to boil and simmer 45 minutes. Check water level and add more as needed.
Meanwhile put whole head of garlic into shallow baking pan together with quartered onion, Kasseler or smoked pork and ham or pork bone, drizzle with olive oil and roast in oven at medium heat about 45 minutes.
Remove baking tray from oven when all is nicely browned and cut meat into small dice and add to lentil pot along with onion. Squeeze garlic from skin into lentil pot, adding ham/pork bone along with oil and juices scraped from roasting pan.
Add rest of vegetables to lentils, chicken stock (or water and stock cubes), tomato puré, fresh herbs and bay leaf, parsley - reserving one sprig, fresh ground pepper. Bring to boil and simmer about 1 hour until vegetables are done, adding more water if needed.
When vegetables are tender, remove ham/pork bones and any bare thyme stems from pot, Serve with a bit of chopped parsley and more fresh ground pepper. Homemade garlic croutons are also nice as a garnish.

Source: Recipe as I learned from a Mallorquin housewife years ago.

Remembrance Day

2009-11-10T20:33:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is Remembrance Day......a day of reflection for all of us. A sad day for all of us. Rather than add sadness to my journal, I would like to add this lovely musical piece by Andre Rieu and trumpet player Melissa Venema.....Il Silenzio. Please click on link below to listen to this beautiful piece. Thank you. Michelle

Andre Rieu - Il Silenzio

Rainy Day Blues....

2009-11-05T23:31:00.000-08:00

It has been a rainy and blustery day here on the west coast of British Columbia - but not wet enough to dampen spirits. I enjoy this time of year and the cosiness of being indoors by the crackling fireside with a good book - it is a time for cooking up comfort foods and listening to music or watching a good movie or documentary during the evening. Today I will venture out-of-doors (the rain has stopped for a while and the sun is peeking through the clouds) to fill my lungs with some fresh woodsy air with scent of cedar and fir. My plan is to amble my way down to the vegetable kiosk in quest of butternut squash - to be made into thick and creamy butternut squash soup. Don't worry, I will share this recipe (from my mother) with you too! But first, I want to share more photo collages (oh no! not again!!) from some of my older pictures. Though we are nearing winter - the trees are almost bare and northern winds are beginning to blow..... I would like to share a few 'springy' images from our yard......as soon, my photo images will change to reflect our west coast winter (our winters are not all that bad - flowers are still in bloom) - be prepared! Michelle

printable version of recipe
Roasted Garlic & Butternut Soup
6 - 8 servings (My mother's recipe)
Sharon (Canarybird) - click link here to visit Sharon's beautiful website

1 1/2 lbs butternut squash - after baking there should be about 2 cups of mashed squash
1 lg Spanish onion - peeled and cut into 8 chunks
1 medium leek - washed & chopped, including best-looking top green leaves
1 teasp cumin
1 head of garlic - sliced across top to expose cloves
2 - 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
200 ml (about 3/4 cup) light cream or half & half
olive oil

fresh ground black pepper and salt to taste
homemade garlic croutons (optional) & chopped flat leaf parsley
Utensils needed: oven or toaster oven and roasting pan or tray, frying pan & lid, blender or food processor, large heavy saucepan with lid.

Preheat oven or toaster oven to 300F
Split, quarter and seed butternut squash, and arrange on roasting tray together with cut chunks of onion and head of garlic. Drizzle with a little olive oil and roast 1 hr or until all is golden and tender, including garlic.
Clean and chop leek, including top green leaves. Sauté in a little oil for in frying pan 5 minutes.
Then add 2 cups of chicken broth, turn down to simmer with lid on until tender - about 12 - 15 minutes.
When butternut etc is cooked, scrape it from skin and place in food processor along with the onion, cumin, and some pepper.
Squeeze the garlic cloves - which should be soft and buttery - from their skins and add to food processor.
Add some of the rest of the chicken broth and process to a puré. Gradually add the leek and liquid from pan. Process until all is smooth, adding more of the chicken broth as needed.
Place the mixture in the saucepan and gently heat. Add the rest of the broth as needed for the desired consistency.
Add the cream, reserving 2 TBS for swirling as a garnish when served. Check the seasoning - adding salt and pepper as needed.
Serve with a swirl of cream, chopped parsley and small homemade garlic-flavoured croutons.

Sharon (Canarybird)

Photo Collages

2009-11-03T21:37:00.000-08:00

I have been having fun lately putting together a group of collages with a few of my older photos - some of which can been seen throughout this blog. These pictures I took on Savary Island, it is a magical place with amazing plant life and beautiful old-growth trees. I have taken hundreds of photos there over the years and will probably take hundreds more in the years to come. Please note the 'nude beach' sign is for 'fun' only - the locals of Savary Island have some interesting signs posted throughout the island! I wish I had more photos of their locally made street signs as they are quite charming - my favourite sign on Savary reads "please drive slowly, Grandparents playing".

The island is almost tropical with white sandy beaches (you can read about it in my previous posts) - and is lush with vegetation. The month of May is a beautiful time of year to visit the island as it becomes so green and lush with new plants, the Spanish broom is in bloom, wildflowers and floxglove are bursting forth and the verdant forests and meadows almost glow and shimmer in the sunlight. The tall green grasses and billowing ferns adorn pathways and small narrow roadways. Towering old cedars and firs stand like wise and proud old souls, truly worthy of such veneration and respect. Our First Nations people were once established on this island and were able to live from the fish and plant life here - how serene and healthy a lifestyle.

I cannot capture the full beauty of this island with my photos but they do offer a small glimpse.

Thank you. Michelle

Whimsical Memories

2009-11-01T12:34:00.001-08:00

One of my favourite childhood artists was Cicely Mary Barker, born in Croydon, Surrey, England. Her artwork fascinated me as a child and took my imagination to wonderful places - I believed every flower and plant was inhabited by a special garden fairy and that they protected our flowers and trees. I was careful never to step on or pick any flowers from the garden! As a mature adult, I am still fascinated by her whimsical artwork and have passed along, through books and stories, the fascination of this art to my daughter and nieces. I do not usually express my whimsical thoughts about fairy art to anyone but thought it might be fun and delightful for this journal posting. Though I would love to post all of her illustrations, I will post only a few here. Thank you for viewing. Michelle

All illustrations by Cicely Mary Barker

Happy Halloween !

2009-10-31T22:14:00.000-07:00

Vintage H allowe en cards

Last Whispers of Fall

2009-10-27T00:47:00.001-07:00

Diana Gabaldon

2009-10-23T11:03:00.000-07:00

A couple of evenings ago the Alix Goolden Hall in Victoria hosted a reading by Diana Gabaldon, author of the award-winning Outlander series. The Hall was packed with her adoring fans, everyone anxious to catch a glimpse of beautiful Diana and to hear her speak. She spoke of and read an excerpt from her latest novel "An Echo In the Bone". My daughter and her two friends were so excited to see her in person and to have their books signed. I don't know how this woman keeps up with such a busy schedule and how she managed to sign so many books! It was a fun evening out with my daughter and I did buy Diana's latest novel. I look forward to my quiet time with An Echo In the Bone, nestled by the fireside with my hot cocoa. Here are a couple of pictures from that evening. I will mention here that there are some interesting upcoming events at the the Alix Goolden Hall, especially for the Christmas season. It is an elegant, and not too large, venue for hosting special events and concerts in the Victoria region - and also has a very nice 'warm' ambiance. Thank you. Michelle

Diana Gabaldon

Danielle and Diana - book signing

Alix Goolden Performance Hall

The Glorious Pumpkin

2009-10-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago my daughter and I ventured out in the car and we stopped along the way to admire a couple of lovely sights. We spotted a pumpkin field, a vast field of orange as far as the eye could see. The pumpkins were ready for picking - some large and plump, others small and delicate. Amidst the orange field were pumpkin pickers, parents with children - each examining these orange delights to find the perfect one to take home - for pumpkin pies and upcoming Halloween. I love this time of year, I wish it would not end!

Pumpkin Pie - click here for recipe
(courtesy of 'Sunshine Farm' in Kelowna)

These pumpkins were made into 'pumpkin ale'

My husband loves to make beer - one of his favourite hobbies. Every year during harvest season he gathers up pumpkins to make a home-brew of pumpkin ale. These four pumpkins were the victims. I wish I had taken photos of his beer-making, it would have been a perfect addition to this post - next year! I will try and remember to take photos of him brewing 'cranberry-ale' - coming up for the Christmas season.

Autumn Maple

Japanese Maple and Ferns

Autumn Colour

A giant orange pumpkin is pleasing to behold.
More than just a lowly squash; possibilities unfold

It can decorate an entryway,
eliciting a welcome,
or, as a quick-change artist,
become a Jack-O- lantern.

Roasted pumpkin seeds;
a delicious, salty treat.
The insides of the pumpkin
convert to something sweet.

A smooth and creamy filling,
add sugar, spice and cream.
Spill into crusty dough,
creating a dessert supreme.

I overlook the main course, impatient for the prize.
My favorite treat the year 'round
homemade pumpkin pies

-Carol Gioia

Autumn's Rainy Day Delight

2009-10-17T16:39:00.000-07:00

Today was a wet autumn day, we received quite a sprinkling these past two days. Regardless of the rain and white sky, I was drawn outdoors with my camera to capture a few photos in our yard. The colours of the trees are so beautiful this time of year and it would be a shame to miss a minute of their beauty. I was reminded of Spring where flowers provide their showy colours, but instead the leaves on the trees provide this spectacular show. I will post a few photos from today which I would like to share - but I am really hoping for blue skies where I can venture further afield to take more pictures. Vancouver Island is such a beautiful place to live and I hope that we can all take some time in our busy lives to spend outdoors - get away from our computers and indoors (parting from our computer is difficult at times, I know!). Michelle

"I am rich today with autumn's gold,
All that my covetous hands can hold;
Frost-painted leaves and goldenrod,
A goldfinch on a milkweed pod,
Huge golden pumpkins in the field
With heaps of corn from a bounteous yield,
Golden apples heavy on the trees
Rivaling those of Hesperides,
Golden rays of balmy sunshine spread
Over all like butter on warm bread;
And the harvest moon will this night unfold
The streams running full of molten gold.
Oh, who could find a dearth of bliss
With autumn glory such as this!"
- Gladys Harp

Thanksgiving

2009-10-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving........what does it mean?

It is a time for preparation.....for harvest, for the gathering of family and friends, for collecting wood to comfort us with warm fires and baking, for venturing outdoors to enjoy the beauty of the autumn season. Most of all, it is a time for giving thanks to the very special people in our lives..... our family and friends.

It is a time to remember our loved ones from times gone by, who are dear to our hearts, and for their love and wonderful stories which they have passed along to us, which we in turn will pass along to our children. We cherish these fond memories and love of our family. Thank you for all that you have done for us.

It is a time to count our blessings and accomplishments - no matter how small or large they may be. A time to give thanks for every kind word, deed, smile, helping hand, friendship that comes to us - for these are wonderful gifts.

Thanksgiving is a time to share our joy of life with one another.

This is what it means to me.

Michelle

Salt Spring Apple Festival

2009-10-07T18:15:00.000-07:00

Salt Spring Apple Festival 2009
(click here to view slideshow)

'Tis the season for rolling in apples! I was reminded the other day of the Apple Festival on Salt Spring Island while listening to the CBC All Points West radio station on my way home from work - I was so happy to be reminded as I did not want to miss this yearly event - and it was a very good reason to visit my favourite island. Salt Spring Island is known for its heritage apples, more than 350 varieties that are grown organically. Though the festival is over, here is a link to the event with a few highlights from previous years and upcoming events....... Salt Sp ri ng Island Apple Festival (note: link updated 2010).

The weather has been amazing these past few weeks - blue skies and sunshine - it was perfect for the apple festival - and for a motorbike ride to the island! We caught the morning ferry from Swartz Bay which took us to Fulford Harbour - only minutes away from the Fulford Community Hall where we started our apple journey. Though we were pressed for time (no pun intended!) and could not visit all the different venues - we did manage to see a few apples! Richard was thinking 'mmm....apple cider.....' and I was thinking 'mmm...apple pie.....'! The pies looked delicious but the line-up of hungry patrons was a little overwhelming for me. I did manage to sample a piece of apple cake at the Apple Luscious Organic Farm and some goat's cheese topped with apple and blackberries. It was a lovely ambiance and there were moments when I felt I was back in the Mediterranean countryside, where I once lived. I especially loved to see the children running about and the warm smiles on faces. It was a magical day for the both of us.

I will post a few pictures of the day in my journal (blog) and will try to include any notes of where and what they are of. We were not able to visit all farms and orchards listed on the tour - so sad - as there were too many to view in one day. One place I would like to include here is the Foxglove Farm - I have added the link for you to read. Thank you for viewing! Michelle

Apple Luscious Organic Farm

Sampling the Goodies!

Apple Luscious Farm Heritage Apples

Fulford Community Hall - Heritage Apples

Fulford Community Hall - Apple Pies

Wave Hill Farm - click to view website

Watching the Chickens at Wave Hill Farm

Ruckle Farm - one of B.C.'s Oldest Working Farms

Ruckle Homestead - click photo to enlarge

Ruckle Farm Homestead - Today

Ruckle Farm Apple and Pear Trees - over 100 yrs old

Highland Cattle - Ruckle Farm

Chrysanthemum's

2009-10-03T18:31:00.000-07:00

With the Fall season we see pumpkins, apples, squashes of all kinds, trees changing their hues to golden yellow, reds and browns...everywhere can also be seen the delightful and colourful chrysanthemums! I love the variety of colour and daisy look of these plants. They are interesting and certainly add to the autumny feel in a garden and are a warm welcome to this season. I was reading the history and uses of chrysanthemums through Wikipedia and it is an interesting read - have a glance when you get a chance. The other day my daughter and I visited a local nursery in Victoria and we had a little fun in the chrysanthemum section - fortunately I had my camera with me. I will post some, not all, of the pictures we took. Not only does variety of colour and form of these beautiful plants surprise me but the complex design of each flower and petal when seen close up never ceases to amaze me. I have a few of these lovely flowers potted in my back garden and front of the house - they blend in nicely with my other potted plants and offer a splash of warm colour. Happy Fall everyone.........thank you for viewing. Michelle

Grapes of Summer

2009-09-21T20:34:00.000-07:00

The grapes of summer are ready for picking - harvest season is upon us and these are the last few days of summer. The days are still quite warm and the evenings are cooler - but still warm enough for outdoor barbecues! These grapes were so pretty last evening with the sun bathing them with its last rays of the day. Though it was quite dark and I did not want to use my flash, I will post these in my journal as the "grapes of summer". Thank you for viewing. Michelle

Last Summer Days

2009-09-15T11:25:00.000-07:00

The last days of summer are upon us now and I would like to post a few memories from these past two months. We had a busy time with family visits, swimming at the ocean side, barbecues and a couple of trips to neighbouring islands and the mainland. There is certainly much to do and see, if one only has the time. Happy summer everyone! Michelle

September Fall Fair

2009-09-14T18:44:00.000-07:00

Fall is in the air and it was time for the annual Saanichton fair last weekend. It was overcast and a wee bit rainy but the sun did shine - the damp weather certainly did not dampen spirits and there were rides, food and too many events and kiosks to mention. I took a couple of pictures for my journal and will include some in this posting. My favourite are of the animals and the vegetables. The harvest season is upon us now where squashes and pumpkins are filling fields and other vegetables and fruits are yielding their bountiful crops. As I mentioned before, this is one of my favourite seasons of the year. Here are a few pictures from the Saanichton Fall Fair. Thank you for viewing. Michelle

An Evening Sky

2009-09-13T12:53:00.000-07:00

I would like to share a couple of pictures taken in our back yard just before the evening sunset. I was working outside when I looked up to the sky and noticed these beautiful puffy clouds - I quickly grabbed my camera to caputre this moment before it vanished.

A Deep Cove Evening

2009-09-08T11:43:00.000-07:00

Monday evening we were invited for a lovely dinner with Richard's cousin aboard his boat in Deep Cove. We arrived just as the sun was casting its last rays upon the ocean and the shoreline. It was a beautiful evening. I took a few pictures before the sun disappeared and which I would like to share with this journal posting. There is a definite hint of Fall in the air now, the days are cooler and mornings are dewy. I especially love this time of year - harvest season is upon us and the green tree foliage changes to autumnal hues. It is also the season for 'comfort food' cooking! I will post 'autumnal' photos with my next postings. Meanwhile, here are a couple of photos taken on Monday September 7, 2009.

Sunday Fly-In

2009-09-05T20:42:00.000-07:00

On Sunday August 30th, Richard and I travelled by motorbike to the City of Duncan for a fly-in event where several small privately owned airplanes flew in and out that day onto a ten acre grassed field. We met up with Richard's mother and father and five other motorcyclists before starting our journey onto the highway from Victoria to Duncan. It was another warm summery day - with just a hint of Fall in the early morning air. Once off the highway before Duncan, we rode through the small ocanside village of Cowichan Bay and along picturesque countryside roads with acres of farmland and rolling fields. The fresh air and smells of the country are not usually so noticeable while driving inside a car as they are riding on the bike. It was a lovely ride there and the fly-in event was busy with small planes flying in and other activities around the property. There was food and fresh baked pies, games for children and a live band played inside the hanger.

Saturday Country Market

2009-08-23T13:43:00.000-07:00

It was market day on Saturday in our little rural community of North Saanich and was another warm and summery day where locals gathered to chat with one another and sample some tasty treats. There were tables of fresh and locally grown vegetables, breads and pastries, fruits and assorted hand-made crafts, flowers and so much more. Children played nearby and a local folk musician sang tunes. I bought a few cloves of fresh garlic and my daughter enjoyed a freshly baked blueberry tart. A rather enjoyable start to our Saturday morning.

Local Artisan

Freshly Baked Goodies

Blueberry Tart

Locally Grown Produce

Honey Bees

My Red Helmet

2009-08-17T18:20:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been busy these past few weeks. Here I am again. On Sunday, August 16th, Richard and I ventured off to Victoria on the motorcycle - we had such a wonderful time. I was able to finally wear my new red motorcycle helmet! It was a red car day too at the Oak Bay vintage car show. Of course, there were many styles and colours of cars on display that day. The weather was ideal for such an occasion and the sun glistened and sparkled upon rows of chrome and polished hoods. Music of the fifties was playing in the background, imitation Elvis was swinging away upon his little platform - while some onlookers tapped a foot or two and others took full swing on the paved dance floor. We walked by all the various events and 'ooed and awwed' our way past rows of vintage cars. I had visions of Richard and I driving off in the Aston Martin. I guess a few photos of this dream car would have to do! We snuck into the Penny Farthing Pub for a refreshing pint on that warm and fine afternoon. Here are a few 'red' cars from that Sunday. To see more styles and colours, please view the slideshow by clicking on Betty Boop.
Thank you for viewing!

Market Days

2009-07-17T00:29:00.000-07:00

Thursday is market day in our busy little town during the summer months. I thought it would be a good occasion to soak in some of the summer cheer and take a few snaps of the event for my journal. It was warm and busy. I stopped at a few of my favourite kiosks and browsed by the various vegetable stands and jewellery tables; there were bright and colourful children's clothing and toys; books, music, a fortune-teller and some very enticing aromas as I passed by the food stalls. My favourite fragrance came from the bundles of lavender for sale. It was difficult to not want to nibble the various cheeses and food samples! Here are a few pictures from Thursday and there is also a quick slide-show on the side. I wanted to include this section under "Summer Markets and Flower Stands" but will give it its own posting here.

"Saltspring Lavender"

Rings and Things - from "Sublime Design"

Flower Stand

New Hats! - from "Bellabug"

Cotton Candy

Fresh Flowers

Summer Colour

2009-07-14T17:26:00.000-07:00

This time of year is so beautiful and I always feel so happy and inspired by the warm weather and the outdoors - everything seems so alive and vibrant. There is a wide spectrum of colour around us in nature, all the time - our trees during Spring, Fall and Winter, the dark blue and green ocean, an evening sky, a walk through the woods, and SO much more - if the eye can see it! I put together a few of my own favourite colours which have been inspired by my environment - to add a bit of splash for today's post!

"Odds and Ends" on My World Tuesday

2009-07-13T23:09:00.000-07:00

Well it's Tuesday again on Vancouver Island.....where did the week go? I have not had a chance to snap any exciting photos since last Tuesday, so I have dug out a few "odds and ends" from around the area. My best wishes to everyone! Click here to visit other sites from around the world.

Totem Pole (Quadra Island)

Beautiful Old Growth on Hornby Island

Hornby Island Local Pub - notice the lawn-mower on roof!

Forest Man

"Buckley" - out shopping

Driftwood Maiden (in garden)

Summer Markets and Flower Stands

2009-07-11T18:16:00.000-07:00

It wouldn't be summer without flower stands and outdoor markets. Here are a couple of 'snappy' organic Swiss Chard and kale pics - two of my favourite vegetables - and other delectables. I will add a few pictures, a story (or two) and maybe even a recipe over the next two weeks. We are fortunate that we can walk to these wonderful stands to buy fresh vegetables every day. We also grow these in our garden but recently had a visit from a family of hungry rabbits....

Local Organic Carrots

Swiss Chard

My World Tuesday on Vancouver Island

2009-07-06T18:52:00.000-07:00

It is July 7th - summer time! The weather has been fabulous these past few weeks, it has been warm and suuny. Today, Tuesday, it is cooler and we may expect some rain, much needed at this time of year for our forests and gardens. We live on beautiful Vancouver island where we are surrounded by ocean and mountain vistas, lakes and forests. I will include a few photos taken on the island and surrounding area.
Click here for other glimpses around the world.

Water Bomber, Sproat Lake

View at Sproat Lake

Beach on Savary Island

Rogers Pass

Pender Harbour, Sunshine Coast

Quadra Island

Kimberley

A Week on an Island

2009-06-23T17:07:00.001-07:00

A week on Savary Island.......it was beautiful. This posting will be about our recent visit to the island and will include a few pictures. Our trip started with the usual preparation beforehand, we were well-stocked with food and other necessities, enough to keep us going for more than one week - best to have enough 'just in case' of an emergency. We stuffed every inch of our little car with our belongings with no room to spare - though the car was burdened with weight, she safely made the journey to Lund. We anxiously arrived at the water-taxi hoping for smooth sailing to the island and that not too many travellers would be before us with their large loads to also be transported. The trip went smoothly and we met some very nice people on the trip. It was a bit of a task to unload all the gear from the water taxi and haul it up the dock ramp, especially at low tide.

Savary Island Dock

We arrived to 'Barky' - the little rustic cabin in the woods - a charming and secluded place, this was to be our home away from home for the next week. We were greeted by our dear Mother who had prepared the cabin for our arrival. We sat ourselves on the front porch to rest for a few minutes before we quickly unpacked. The wonderful fresh air and rich vegetation of the island was a real treat to us after a long trip in the car - we both felt so happy to be there. We made our way to the beach and were greeted by Richard's dear Aunt - she was cozily tucked in the tall beach grass on her lounge chair with a book. We sat ourselves on a driftwood log and had a joyful chat with our Mother and Aunt, the four of us had the beach to ourselves.

We had company of an eagle and heron. We had no schedule to keep and nowhere to rush off to, what a treat. Our keepers of time, watches, would not be seen until the day of departure. We admired the evening sky as it changed its hue, the sand under our feet was cool and soothing. We eventually made our way back to the little cabin in the woods, had an easy dinner by candle light and a restful sleep that night.

We slept in quite late our first morning. We had planned to visit the beach with our coffee but decided it would be just as nice to have breakfast at the cabin on the front porch. The morning light was soft and dappled through the thin cedar trees, there was a gentle breeze from the ocean and we could hear eagles nearby. We were in no rush to finish breakfast and were quite satisfied to rest, still feeling a bit tired from the previous days' trip. We finished unpacking, tidied up inside the cabin, pumped up water for our outdoor shower then made a picnic to take with us on our walk.

After packing our lunch we set off for the trails and beaches. We started walking through the Sunset trail, a lovely pathway where one can step out to the beach at any time from underneath the canopy of trees and lush ferns.

View through Sunset Trail to Beach

Every time I hike on the island, I cannot help but feel overwhelmed by the beauty, quietness and magnificent fresh air. It is interesting to see old-growth cedar, Douglas-fir, pine, arbutus and salal growing from sandy soil. Salal, a type of shrub, grows abundantly throughout the island and some broom grows so large that one can walk underneath their branches! The island is also home to the largest arbutus tree in British Columbia.

Broom

Salal Flower

The meadow area and gentle sandy slopes near the shoreline are where various grasses and native plants grow. These are very precious and rare plants where one must follow the pathways to avoid causing any damage to the vegetation.

I especially love the tall blue grass that grows along the sandy shores - not only is it pretty but it offers refuge for those who want to tuck away with a lounge chair and book!

We walked along the Sunset trail through to the meadow and back down to the beach where we beach combed for driftwood and rocks. I was focused on taking as many pictures as possible. We stopped for lunch where a piece of driftwood became our table and a log became our chair. It was so peaceful and quiet. Again, we were in no hurry to rush off anywhere. We watched the ocean's waves and the clouds forming in the distance over Vancouver Island - the clouds did not appear to be heading our way. We had blue skies and sunshine. We sipped a small glass of wine with our lunch and when finished we packed everything up and walked back along the shore towards Indian Point where we eventually met up with our Mother and Aunt. They were nestled in their beach chairs with sun umbrellas amongst the tall blue grass. We trekked back to the cabin to change and prepared ourselves for the beach where we would spend a few hours reading and swimming. Richard was eager to go for a swim! The tide was out a fair distance but it would not be long before the gentle rippling waves would roll in closer to the shoreline and meet up with us.

Later on, we talked about where we would dine that evening - Aunt B invited us to her cottage which was only steps away from 'Barky' - the little cottage in the woods where we stayed. We all had quite an appetite from the day's hiking and swimming - all that fresh air stirred up a hunger! Before dinner, Aunt B and I snuck outside the cottage to catch a glimpse of the resident baby crow who was perched on a spirea branch - its downy feathers gave it a dishevelled appearance. It was waiting for a parent to return with dinner!

The four of us ate dinner then watched the sunset from the cottage, the red coral sky cast its last rays upon us before the day's end.

The next morning we sipped coffee on the front porch and discussed the day ahead. Richard was anxious to 'build' something and decided he needed a beach chair. After breakfast and our morning walk, he enthusiastically set out to collect a supply of wood for his new chair. I was anxious to read my books and settled myself on the pathway amongst salal shrubs and tall cedars, in front of the cabin. The dappled sun shone through the trees and provided plenty of light for reading. A small group of swallows flittered by my side. Meanwhile, Richard was chopping and sawing up pieces of driftwood - bits and pieces flying in every direction. It did not take long before the masterpiece was finished and set up on the beach. It did not take long to become the centrepiece of attraction for neighbours and passerbyers!

Every day we set out for a walk. I decided to take a few pictures of 'rocks' along the shoreline - there were so many with different shapes and colours that I had difficulty deciding which rocks to photograph. I wanted to bring a few home with me but the weight in my backpack would have been considerable - not such a good idea. I decided a few pictures would be less cumbersome.

This was certainly too large for my backpack! Maybe a few of these little ones would fit?

We walked along the Sandtrail beach en route to the middle part of the island, if we had continued along this beach, we would eventually end up at the government dock at the opposite end of the island. This side of the island is also very pretty but shadier.

Sandtrail Beach

Almost mid-point way, at Mermaid rock (a carved mermaid sits perched on rock), is where we turned onto a trail which led through a thicket of salal and ferns, we crossed over to the middle part of the island and continued on the pathways. We stopped along the way for a quick snack and orange juice then headed back to Indian Point. Richard was ready for another swim and visit to his new chair.

Mermaid Rock

On our way back we had a quick look at Richard's three-level log cottage he had built fifteen years prior, it was 'hand made' from logs off the beach (no power tools were used for building). Not one tree on the property was cut down to accommodate the building.

We did not see anyone along the pathways and no traffic on the dirt road until a couple of young cyclists whizzed past in a hurry and said 'hello'. Bicycles are a very suitable means of transport on the main dirt road and a great way to get around the island, apart from walking. As I mentioned in my previous Savary Island posting, there are many charming summer cottages and a few permanent residential homes that blend in nicely with the rustic surroundings and which have made use of driftwood, shells and colourful rocks to artistically adorn and decorate the exteriors and interiors. Some of the older summer cottages have retained their rustic charm of long ago and remain unchanged. These vacation homes are where many generations of families have spent summers together and will carry on doing so.

Summer Cottage near Government Wharf

The urge to be creative through artistic expression, whether through painting, wood work, writing or other art form - becomes very strong for both of us whenever we visit the island. Richard usually feels the urge to 'build' furniture (or a cottage!) with driftwood. It is the ideal location to pause from busy mainstream and the outside world, also a chance to reconnect with nature. I knew I was 'connecting' with nature and feeling relaxed about everything when one afternoon I caught myself talking to a bird. Oh gosh........ I hoped that no one heard or saw me! We did meet up with a few deer during our walks, one particular fawn was resting on a pathway and was not bothered by us - I assumed it was tired and did not want to move - or not afraid at all. We did not want to disturb the creature from resting so carried on our walk. Another nice aspect of Savary Island is there are no bears, cougars or raccoons - no threats to the smaller animals or humans.

When we reached 'Barky', we unloaded our backpacks and repacked them with snacks and refreshments for the beach......I was anxious to delve into my book and feel the sand under my feet. We met up with a couple of the neighbours on the beach and our dear Mother and Aunt. One of the neighbours, I will call her Ms. W, had been busy cleaning windows on her cottage - I call it her 'rainbow cottage' because of the rainbow-coloured window trims, the colourful beaded curtains that hang on her doorways (to keep birds from flying into the cottage), the blue, green, yellow flower boxes outside her windows and her outdoor shower made of blue and green hoola-hoops with tropical shower curtains. The cheery and bright property would always catch my eye as we walked past it. One evening whiile walking past Ms. W's property, I caught sight of a honeysuckle flower hanging in mid-air over my head as we walked through the pathway - the sun shone a spotlight on it as if trying to grab our attention.

It was our turn to make dinner at 'Barky' that evening. We decided to make chili burritos, large salad and stewed rhubarb for dessert. The four of us ate dinner by candlelight and reminisced about the day and days that had passed by quickly, but we did not concern ourselves with time, we enjoyed every moment. After dinner, we both fell into bed and into a deep sleep. The next morning we were woken up by a squirrel running back and forth on the roof - who needs an alarm clock!!

Mischievous Squirrel

I will end this posting as it is becoming quite lengthy - I would love to continue this story of our recent trip but will carry on with it after our visit in the Fall. In closing, I would like to say that Savary Island is unique with its rare and special ecosystem, and it is our hope that all who visit will 'walk gently' and enjoy it for its beauty. Thank you for reading this post - I hope it was enjoyable !!

Pastels

2009-06-23T00:07:00.000-07:00

Pastels...colours of Spring and Summer. Here are a few of my recent pictures....I love the light and fresh colours of pinks, lavenders and other delicate soft hues.

Poppies and Bachelor Buttons

Field of Poppies

Peony

Cluster of Roses

Broom

Pink Rose

Himalayan Musk