Safety Warning for Trampolines

[from my email files]

The following picture shows just how dangerous trampolines can be in the Huntsville, Ontario area.


---

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

BYBS - The Eyes Are a Mirror to the Soul

I really struggled with the opening for this post because I am emotionally hurt over a recent event. After quiet reflection I came up with what I feel is a true blessing. If you can look into the eyes of another person, connect with their soul, their very being with total disregard for their gender, colour of skin, station in life, sexual preference, formal education, religious affiliation, political whatevers, their flaws and idiosyncrasies you are truly blessed!

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Baby Shower

Sorry about not posting today. It was a busy day that included a baby shower for the daughter of very dear friends. I will post more on that in tomorrow's BYBS post.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

The Joys of Gardening

Heinz 1439
August 25, 2009

My garden is growing nicely now and despite the cooler, damp weather there are no signs of the dreaded tomato blight. The bad new is I'm battling tomato hornworms (more here). A couple of days ago I removed 2 of these horrid little critters then checked the vines closely for signs of more. When I didn't see any more I breathed a sigh of relief. The bad news is yesterday it rained the entire day so I didn't get out to check the garden. Imagine my horror to find 7 of the critters happily munching on my tomato vines! All were removed and destroyed. I will be checking the garden quite often from now until sunset then almost hourly tomorrow and several times throughout the weekend. I just keep thinking what a disaster we would have come home to had we been away for a couple of days!

On the brighter side of gardening, I picked several Heinz 1439 and Sweet Million tomatoes today. The beefsteaks are looking good but no ripe ones yet. I also picked Hungarian wax and sweet banana peppers along with a handful of peas. I'm picking lettuces daily and herbs as I need them. Some of the herbs need a bit more clipping so I'll start drying some. So all in all not too bad.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Citizens On Patrol

Citizens on Patrol
August 25, 2009

A few days after moving in here about the same time we discovered signs that one or more rodents had been in the house we noticed a large white cat who seemed to be rather content to hang out in our yard. We have no idea who's cat this is but it is obviously well cared for. It is also quite apparent he is a natural born mouser! He is rather fond of chasing the rabbits so that helps control rabbit damage in the gardens. On more than one occasion I have seen him proudly walking away with his catch of the day. Every mouse he catches is one less mouse that can get in the house.

The cat makes its rounds morning and evening usually coming from somewhere south of us. He stops at the two neighbouring gardens first then does a complete check of the hedges lining our laneway. Then he checks around the front garden before making his way into the area where the new vegetable gardens are. Finally he makes himself comfortable near the English ivy in the backyard. If he is unsuccessful he moseys along the bordering hedges making his way north to neighbouring houses.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Wordless Wednesday - Mute Swan Nesting Site

Mute Swan Nesting Site
July 30, 2009

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Here's Your Sign

[from my email files]

My daughter and I went through the McDonald's take-out window and I gave the clerk a $5 bill. Our total was $4.25, so I also handed her a quarter. She said, 'you gave me too much money..' I said, 'Yes I know, but this way you can just give me a dollar bill back.' She sighed and went to get the manager who asked me to repeat my request. I did so, and he handed me back the quarter, and said 'We're sorry but they could not do that kind of thing.' The clerk then proceeded to give me back $1 and 75 cents in change..

Do not confuse the clerks at McD's.

---
Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Hot Summer Days

On the Beach
August 15, 2009

It seems like we have been waiting all summer just to get a bit of seasonable weather. Well last week it finally hit! Despite a few storms it quickly became very hot and humid to the point we had to turn on the air conditioning. It's days like this that we load up the cooler and sunblock, don on our swim suits and head to our favourite swim hole to spend the day. Quite often we head out just after lunch and return after dinner so we aren't traveling in the heat of the day. Instead we are frolicking in the water, relaxing on the boat and exploring the beach.

I love exploring the beach at the swim hole. This small, uninhabited island has many wonderful photo opportunities! The point opens onto the lake so there is a lot to explore. Quite often I will head from the boat to the edge of the water with my camera, drink and hat in hand then just sit partially covered with water enjoying the cool lapping of the water on my legs. Finally curiousity will get the best of me so I will be off exploring always returning with a lot of great pictures. As evening approached we gather things up and pull up the anchor then most times head for the marina although sometimes we stop for dinner along the way. We take our time putzing home just enjoying the beauty of the day. It is just a beautiful, wonderful and relaxing way to spend a hot summer's afternoon!

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

BYBS - Tomatoes

There has been a late blight going though the area destroying tomato plants so I have anxiously been checking the plants daily. I have 13 plants in on of the square foot garden raised beds, one upside down hanging tomato plant and two suckers in the process of rooting. So far I am pleased to report no signs of late blight which is such a blessing! I've been picking a generous handful of cherry tomatoes daily for a few days now. Yesterday I picked the first 3 ripe Heinz 1439 tomatoes. This is about a tennis ball sized tomato that is quite meaty with a deep orangy red colour and wonderfully rich tomato flavour. My husband took one look at the tomatoes in my hand and got that dreamy look on his face that quickly turned into sheer pleasure as he bit into the first toasted tomato sandwiches from this year's garden. What a blessing it is to be able to grow your own food!

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Footprints in Life

The Beach
August 15, 2009

Last weekend we spent a wonderful couple of days boating and swimming. The weather turned quite warm to the point of being uncomfortable. We finally broke down and turned on the air conditioning. So Monday morning I was all gung-ho to get a bit of blogging. I was in such a grand mood that morning! As always I checked my email, made a couple of replies then checked the groups I follow and made a couple of replies. Within a few minutes of one of the group replies there was an extremely nasty and hateful reply. I sat there looking at it for a minute then decided to take the high ground, thank the poster politely for her reply and move on although the way I feel right now it will be quite some time before I participate in that group again!

It is so easy online to forget that the words you type affect real people. Folks under the cloak of anonymity say things online they never would dream of saying directly to someone's face. Yet those words leave just as big of an impact especially when it comes from a trusted source. Feelings get hurt and unlike footprints in the sand the impressions have a lasting effect. Unlike the footprints on the beach the impact remains.

So to the nice and I'm sure you are a nice person who for whatever reason lashed out at me with your spiteful nastiness, I wish you well. I hope you don't experience someone lashing out at you the way you did to me. I hope you had a pleasant and restful day full of good vibes and I seriously hope no one left negative footprints on your soul and heart. May someone throughout your day tell you that you were appreciate and are loved and your knowledge had value in their lives. Perhaps the memories of their kind words will help take the sharpness off of yours before they are spoken forever to leave a footprint.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Party Time

Party Time
August 15, 2009

Summer is an endless party when you live or vacation on water front property. There are all the activities associated with the water like boating, water skiing, tubing, jet skiing, fishing and swimming during the day. In the evenings there are the great summer time meals quite often followed by sitting enjoying the sunsets and perhaps later a lively conversation around the campfire.

Saturday afternoon we spent the afternoon boating and swimming at the swim hole. It was a beautiful hot, hazy and humid day perfect for spending the day on and in the water! As we were heading to the swim hole I spotted the obvious signs of a party so just had to take pictures. It was rather fitting with Jimmy Buffet's Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes playing in the boat. Normally the signs aren't quite as blatant but this one did get the message across. I hope they had an enjoyable and safe summer party!

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

E-mail Warning

[from my email files]

If you receive an email

from the

Department of Health

telling you not to eat

tinned pork

because of

swine flu...

Ignore it.



It's just spam!!

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Wordless Wednesday - Blue Water Bridge

Bluewater Bridge
July 30, 2009

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Opportunity

Opportunity
July 31, 2009

As a gardener it always amazes me how plants will take every opportunity they can. They will sprout up in the tiniest of cracks and on cliffs where you would think nothing could possibly grow. We have the arrogance and audacity to refer to plants we don't desire or can find no useful purpose as weeds. Yet despite man's attempt at destroying these undesirable plants they persist and thrive. Talk about taking advantage of every available opportunity to survive!

This cute yet unidentified weed was happily tucked up in the cracks between the huge boulders that create the pier on the east side of Lexington harbour. Even Mother Nature loves to soften those hard edges :)

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Lighthouse

The Lighthouse
July 31, 2009

Scattered throughout the Great Lakes waterways, their rivers and tributaries are a multitude of lighthouses many of which present wonderful photo opportunities. At one time the lighthouses, many of them still operational, guided water vessels safely home. During the daylight hours they serve as a landmark to guide the way. During the dark they also guide the way and warn of danger. The best way to really enjoy lighthouses is from the water. It's where you will see them the way they were intended to be seen.

It's interesting to hear boaters talk. On our way to Lexington State Dock we were told to watch for the silver water tower. When that came into site start moving towards shore then in the distance there would be the entrance to the harbour. So even on the lake for that trip we navigated by tall landmarks. Crossing the lakes is a different story where navigation is strictly by compass and the first time crossing is rather daunting because the only thing you see is water speckled with the occasional boat. There is a feeling of relief spotting the first signs of land!

This lighthouse is north of the Blue Water Bridge spanning between Sarnia, Ontario and Port Huron, Michigan. It is on the west shore of Lake Huron north of the bridge. The house portion is new and as lighthouses go this is a rather small lighthouse so likely used as a warning beacon for approaching the St. Clair River.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

BYBS -

At the start of last week we were facing three repairs all with the potential to be quite costly. First off was the plumbing problem that resulted in our patio being partially torn up and still open at the end of the week. The plumber wanted to leave the pit open to be sure things are draining properly before going ahead with the necessary upgrades. The second problem was our car was all of a sudden leaking power steering fluid and any repair to that make and model tend to be quite expensive. For example replacing the head lamps set us back $800! The third problem was our boat decided to die for no apparent reason and we had to be towed back to the marina. Anyone with a boat knows how costly boat repairs can be. My husband said not to worry but of course I couldn't help it.

The first bit of good news was the car only needed a hose replaced, simple and inexpensive. The second bit of good news was the only problem with the boat was a battery connection had come loose! The third bit of good news is the drainage is working as it should so hopefully will be hooked up later this week. This might seem like small blessings to some but for us they were blessings none the less and we are very greatful!

Have a great BYBS!


Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Harbour Ducks

Harbour Ducks
July 31, 2009

If you spend anytime around natural bodies of water in the Great Lakes waterways especially Lakes Huron and Erie as well as connecting waterways you can help but notice the Mallard ducks. They are especially fond of visiting docks in the hopes of being fed and I have yet to se a marina where Mallards are not present. They will flit in between the docked boats. Once in awhile someone will toss a few pieces of bread or left-over chip which triggers a unique semi-flight response from the ducks. Their hind end remains in the water while their wings propel them forward in a feeding frenzy. It is rather humorous to watch and always brings fits of giggles from the kids who delight in feeding them. Oldest grandbaby has just learned about this so has fed the ducks from our dock much to her amazement and delight!

For the most part the Mallards don't cause much of a problem unless they decide to favour your dock or swim platform as their sitting spot. Then it makes one heck of a mess! We've had them nesting under the bushes near the water each spring we've been here. They know we won't bother them and almost as a thank-you the mommy always brings the little fluff balls back to the dock for a visit after they leave the nest.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Historical Signs

Historic Sign at Lexington, Michigan
July 30, 2009

A lot of the places we visit have historical points of interest and Lexington, Michigan is no different. Historical points of interest are often marked with special plaques. Each time we stop I try to get pictures of these plaques simply for the wonderful information they convey. Pictured is the historical sign for the Old Town Hall located in Lexington, Michigan and the efforts the Masonic Temple made to restore this historical landmark.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

The Charm of Harbour Towns

Crazy Joe's
July 30, 2009

Part of the charm of harbour towns is their quaint and unique shops. Lexington, Michigan does not disappoint in this respect. Not only can you find souvenirs you can browse for antiques and and endless variety of handmade items from area artisans. Pictured is one of our favourite little shops to browse through. Crazy Joe's is located about a block from the harbour on the first side street to the left on Huron Avenue heading up from the harbour. It is less than a block away. This shop is quaint with character at every turn inside and out. You can find a bit of everything in this shop so do be sure to stop by!

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Wordless Wednesday - Black Egret (Egretta ardesiaca)

Cormorant
July 30, 2009

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Lexington State Harbour View

View from our Boat
July 30, 2009

When docking in slips most boaters back in to the slip. There are two reasons for this. First the exit for most boats is at the stern of the boat. Second it is considerably easier when leaving the slip to drive out rather than back out. Our slip faced east with the harbour pier and Lake Huron lining the horizon. Facing east allows us to enjoy the beautiful sunrises over the lake. To the west the glow of sunsets is just barely visible through the trees.

Lexington State Harbour is a very peaceful, quiet harbour. Swans visit daily while ducks have nests scattered throughout the harbour. If you look closely you will spot fish meandering throughout the water. There is no fishing allowed in the harbour. You may even spot the occasional turtle and bullfrogs. The bullfrogs can be heard throughout the evening hours. It is just such a pretty harbour to spend a few days!

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Lexington State Dock, Lexington, Michigan

Approaching Lexington Harbour
July 30, 2009

Lexington State Dock is located on west shores of Lake Huron co-ordinates 43º 15' 50" N 82º 31' 00" W, radio channel 16. It is a smaller harbour with transient slips available so it is best to call ahead for reservations. Amenities include water, electricity, restrooms, showers, gasoline, diesel, pump-out, fish cleaning station, boat launch, day use dockage and marine supplies. The marina restaurant offers a very simple and limited menu (no burgers or fries) along with ice cream. Less than a block away to the west are the quaint shops and wonderful, down home style eateries (more here and here) of historical and picturesque Lexington, Michigan. Several events are hosted through-out the main tourist season.

The habour entrance has a long, walking pier to the east. A sandbar forms to the south of the pier. Do be sure to watch your depth finding while approaching the harbour. The first year we visited the water level was lower and the sandbar had risen so you could not approach straightway into the harbour. This year we were able to easily approach straightway so they must have dredged the sandbar. There is a public, sandy beach to the north of the harbour within easy walking distance of the harbour. Strolling along the pier with the harbour to the west and Lake Huron to the east is a pleasant way to greet the day.

Music in the Park is a must attend! It is a rather laid back relaxing event that runs each Friday night featuring live entertainment in the bandshell less than a block from the marina. It is casual with bleacher seating and coolers are allowed. The SC4 Symphonic Band was playing the Friday night of our stay. Various street fairs are hosted as well. The Lexington Fine Arts Street Fair began the day we left but we had a chance to take a quick peek.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

BYBS - The Kindness of Boaters

I have often mentioned how friendly boaters are and how they will help other boaters in trouble. Last week we spent an enjoyable evening on the water with friends. We we started the boat I notice a bit of an exhaust cloud so mentioned it to my husband. The boat ran well and we had a very enjoyable, uneventful trip. The following evening we decided to take the boat out to one of our favourite harbour spots. The boat started up and ran without incident to the harbour where we gassed up then docked for dinner. After a lovely dinner we headed for home. All of a sudden the boat quit! There was no warning, it just quit. Each attempt to start the boat showed a small amount of gas spewing into the water. While my husband called a fellow boating friend for a tow, I flashed over another boater just in case. With our friend on the way to tow us to our marina, the other boater left and we dropped anchor. The end result was a beautiful, moonlit ride back to the marina but thanks to the kindness of others we were safe and sound. What a great blessing!

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Old Relics

Old Relic
July 30, 2009

Reminders of days gone by always fascinate me so I just had to take a picture of this old foundation less than a block from the Lexington harbour. Pictured is the largest remaining section. There is a small section to the back as well. The entire relic has been allowed to be overgrown with vegetation giving it a very pretty but rustic look.
Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

THE BLONDE JOKE TO END ALL BLONDE JOKES

[from my email files]

THE BLONDE JOKE TO END ALL BLONDE JOKES

A blonde woman was speeding down the road in her little red sports car and
was pulled over by a woman police officer who was also a blonde.
The blonde cop asked to see the blonde driver's license. She dug through
her purse and was getting progressively more agitated.
'What does it look like?' she finally asked.
The policewoman replied, 'It's square and it has your picture on it.'
The driver finally found a square mirror in her purse, looked at it and
handed it to the policewoman. 'Here it is,' she said.
The blonde officer looked at the mirror, then handed it back saying, 'OK,
you can go. I didn't realize you were a cop.

-----

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Wordless Wednesday - Life at the Swim Hole

Life at the Swim Hole
July 12, 2009

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

School Teachers

[from my email files]

After being interviewed by the school administration, the prospective teacher said:
'Let me see if I've got this right.

You want me to go into that room with all those kids, correct their disruptive behaviour, observe them for signs of abuse, monitor their dress habits, censor their T-shirt messages, and instil in them a love for learning.

'You want me to check their backpacks for weapons, wage war on drugs and sexually transmitted diseases, and raise their sense of self esteem and personal pride.

You want me to teach them patriotism and good citizenship, sportsmanship and fair play, and how to register to vote, balance a chequebook, and apply for a job.

You want me to check their heads for lice, recognize signs of antisocial behaviour, and make sure that they all pass the final exams.

You also want me to provide them with an equal education regardless of their handicaps, and communicate regularly with their parents in English, Spanish or any other language, by letter, telephone, newsletter, and report card.

You want me to do all this with a piece of chalk, a blackboard, a bulletin board, a few books, a big smile, and a starting salary that qualifies me for food stamps.

You want me to do all this and then you tell me...... I CAN'T PRAY?

-----

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

BYBS - Good Neighbours

The weather has not been ideal boating weather most days so my husband has been carefully watching the extended weather forecast in the hopes of a couple of nice days we could stay on the boat overnight. Finally the opportunity presented itself and he declared last Wednesday that we would leave Thursday morning on an overnight boating excursion on Lake Huron. Boating on the Great Lakes is a lot of fun but extra precautions have to be taken when on the lakes simply because getting to shore if you get into trouble is not as easy as it is in smaller waterways. When boating on the lakes it is imperative that you leave your travel plans with family, friends or neighbours. Included in those plans should be an estimated time of arrival and departure from your destination along with the instructions to call for help if you do not check in by a certain time. Pretty much all of our immediate neighbours are boaters as well so they know the lakes well and problems we could run into. My husband wrote out our itinerary and left it with one of our neighbours. Then we packed for the trip, double checked all our safety equipment and we were off on our adventure.

Once out on the lake it is quite easy to why the extra precautions are necessary. Navigation is by buoys, compass and any landmarks visible from the lake. Communication is by cell phone providing you can pick up a signal and marine radio. You quickly realize how small you really are!

This weeks' blessings were neighbours. We honestly have the best neighbours you could ever imagine. They basically are like family! What a true blessing!


Garden Gnome
©2006-2009