October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

BYBS - Moving Fast Forward

Kenny Chesney's song Living in Fast Forward is a good reminder to slow down and unwind real slow.  My husband and I are doing a bit of unwinding for a few days.  It's nice to able to spend quality time together :)

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Connie Talbot THE FINAL Britains Got Talent Over The Rainbow

Little 6 year old Connie Talbot has an amazing voice and what a real sweetie!

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Flowers on a Grey Day

Flowers on a Grey Day
September 25, 2009

My husband came home with a lovely bouquet of bright, sunny flowers on Friday. It had been a long, cold, rainy and very almost wintery week. I didn't get to enjoy them until Sunday morning after getting home late the night before from visiting the kids but that was ok. Grey days always bother me so we keep a lot of lights on in the main living area on grey days. Anything that helps brighten the grey is always very much welcomed. Aren't the beautiful, sunny colours gorgeous?

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Sleeping Moments

I'm not a huge fan of sleeping but when I do I look forward to my dreams. I have always had the most awesome, realistic, Kodak® colour dreams ever better than any television program you could ever imagine. The best part is I can for the most part remember every graphic detail of these dreams which totally drives my husband nuts. And let me tell you some of them are well worth remembering! It is like the line between the dream world and reality is so fine it is very close to being blurred.

Last night I drifted off to sleep waking in the midst of a very realistic dream because apparently I was thirsty. We use refillable water bottles on our bed stands so I mindlessly reached for mine hoping to get right back into the dream. It was empty! So I hopped out of bed and headed out into the kitchen to refill the bottle. That effectively froze my feet! I hopped back into bed, had a nice sip of cold water then covered up tightly and drifted off again to yet another dream only to be somewhat awakened by my cell phone alerting me the battery was low. I did not even bother batting an eye as I pulled up the down duvet snuggling deeper into its warmth. Somewhere in the recesses of my mind the cell phone dinging until it died might have registered but I was too busy with the dream of the moment. It didn't really matter as I was off on one of my dream adventures :)

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Wordless Wednesday - Shimmering Light

Shimmering Light
August 31, 2009

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Temptation

Gourmet Style Pizza
September 26, 2009

Just take a look at the pizza we had at the kids. Doesn't it just make your mouth water? One or two slices?

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Under Construction

On the Road
September 25, 2009

This pasted weekend we travelled to visit the grandbabies and the parents. Of course it is virtually impossible to get from point A to point B without running into some type of construction. 'Tis the construction season. Anyone who has even driven in Ontario should know this! This means that traffic slows going through construction zones and fines are doubled when workers are present. It means there may be delays as well as uneven pavement, loose gravel, narrower lanes and bumps. So this begs the question "What are some drivers thinking when they go through construction zones?" During our road trip we went through several construction zones. Here are just a few highlights we witnessed in actual construction zones:

• speeding then suddenly jamming on the breaks
• following too closely then jamming on the breaks
• aggressive driving
  
• eating as in a hamburger
  
• talking on the cell phone (I thought that one was now illegal here.)
• reading a map and in one case reading a stack of papers occasionally glancing up at the road
• speeding up on the right then cramming in just before the lane closure started
• small kids jumping around in the back seat (definitely illegal)
  
• a dog sitting on the driver's lap
  

Mind you on our journey home we were driving in some rather heavy rain after dark yet drivers were still doing many of the above. Come on! What the heck are you thinking? None of the above are acceptable at any time. All are are dangerous, finable driving offenses that show a total disregard for the safety of other drivers. When you factor in the extra precautions needed going through a construction zone these are downright life threatening to anyone within range of that driver! Either get with the program and follow the rules for safe driving or get off the road.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

BYBS - Family Travels

My husband and I decided to make a short trip to visit the grandbabies and their parents. We planned on staying over night at the home of oldest and youngest grandbaby then travel on to visit middle grandbaby the following afternoon arriving home before midnight. Friday was a nice travelling day so we made good time arriving in time for dinner. Oldest grandbaby (33 months) no longer has any signs of being a baby and is now very articulate talking in full sentences. Youngest grandbaby (4 months) is quite an attentive, happy baby. We spent a very enjoyable evening and following morning together then were off to visit middle grandbaby. Now this little one (17 months) is a little charmer with a ready smile and just an edge of independence. Needless to say we enjoyed spending the brief but very enjoyable time with the grandbabies and their parents. We ran into a lot of heavy rain, annoying 'let's drive slow in the fast lane' traffic then 'pea soup' fog before arriving home exhausted but safe, sound and happy. I powered up the computer to find that the router had decided to simply stop working so I couldn't catch up online last night. It was just as well as sleeping was a bit more productive use of my time :)

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Mature Ladies

[from my email files, enjoy the chuckle :) ]

---
A mature (over 40) lady gets pulled over for speeding...

Older Woman: Is there a problem, Officer?
Officer: Ma'am, you were speeding.
Older Woman: Oh, I see.
Officer: Can I see your license please?
Older Woman: I'd give it to you but I don't have one.
Officer: Don't have one?
Older Woman: Lost it, 4 years ago for drunk driving.
Officer: I see...Can I see your vehicle registration papers please.
Older Woman: I can't do that..
Officer: Why not?
Older Woman: I stole this car.
Officer: Stole it?
Older Woman: Yes, and I killed and hacked up the owner.
Officer: You what?
Older Woman: His body parts are in plastic bags in the trunk if you want to see.

The Officer looks at the woman and slowly backs away to his car and calls for back up. Within minutes 5 police cars circle the car. A senior officer slowly approaches the car, clasping his half drawn gun.

Officer 2: Ma'am, could you step out of your vehicle please!The woman steps out of her vehicle.
Older woman: Is there a problem sir?
Officer 2: One of my officers told me that you have stolen this car and murdered the owner.
Older Woman: Murdered the owner?
Officer 2: Yes, could you please open the trunk of your car, please.

The woman opens the trunk, revealing nothing but an empty trunk.

Officer 2: Is this your car, ma'am?
Older Woman: Yes, here are the registration papers.

The officer is quite stunned.

Officer 2: One of my officers claims that you do not have a driving license.

The woman digs into her handbag and pulls out a clutch purse and hands it to the officer.
The officer examines the license. He looks quite puzzled.

Officer 2: Thank you ma'am, one of my officers told me you didn't have a license, that you stole this car, and that you murdered and hacked up the owner.
Older Woman: Bet the liar told you I was speeding, too.

Don't Mess With Mature Ladies

---

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

A Brave New World

My Cell Phone
September 25, 2009

When I was on the road daily I relied heavily on my cell phone. Now that I'm at home I don't although it is always on in case of a power failure which knocks out our land lines. I very seldom answer the land line phone unless I know who is calling (telemarketers take note!) and since both my husband and I have cell phones I'm beginning to question the need for a land line at all. More and more I hear of folks giving up their land lines in favour of their cell phone and why not when you know you aren't going to be bothered with telemarketers? Everyone who knows us knows to call one of the cells to get a hold of us so really the land line is becoming a total waste of money but that is another issue. So back to my story.

This is my third cell phone. The first one was a huge 1-foot long thing that weighed a ton. That was upgraded to a really cute Noika with a custom denim case that survived falling in the toilet at a casino (don't ask) but apparently couldn't swim from the lake home. This is why all valuables like cell phones should be in a ziploc bag when boating but again I digress. So that phone was replaced with my cute little Samsung flip phone of which I have a love/hate relationship with but it's always on and does the job so I really can't complain.

My husband was recently away for 4 days so we discovered a whole brand new world of text messaging! We've had this capability for quite some time only NOW we've just decided to use it. Now this is funny because my husband uses his phone to text message which seems painfully slow to me. I on the other hand head on over to Roger's website where I can type in my message using the comforts of touch typing on my keyboard and not squinting at the small key pad on the phone. This actually worked rather well for us so we have decided to continue using text messaging. I normally call him at the office with a grocery list or other stops before he leaves. Today I just sent a brief message to please pick up cottage cheese. He didn't have to stop what he was doing to chit chat and I knew he would get the message so this is really working well for us. Look out world because grandma and grandpa have text messaging and know how to use it :)

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Baby Dancing to Beyonce

Oh now this is just too cute not to pass along. Enjoy the chuckles :)

----

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Wordless Wednesday - In Flight

In Flight
August 31, 2009

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Busy Days

Chili Sauce and Salsa
September 13, 2009

This is a very busy time of year for me in the garden and kitchen. The canner runs almost daily often several times a day. When the canner isn't running I'm dehydrating or freezing foods. During this time there are several trips to local farmers for produce I don't grow enough of or don't grow at all. At the same time the garden needs tending, fresh caught fish needs to be put up and hunting season is quickly approaching. If you haven't read my cooking and gardening blogs you will have missed out on a lot of this activity. So if it seems this blog has been a bit quiet lately you will know why.

I seldom write about either gardening or cooking here and when I do it tends to be rather about something interesting I discovered. So I thought I would share a picture of the canning my husband and I put up a couple of Sunday's ago (more here). There were 55 jars total for one long day's worth of worth and while that may seem like a lot to some it isn't. We've been in this high gear mode for awhile now with dozens of jars of home canned foods being preserved daily. What happens is a lot of produce becomes ready for processing at the same time which is both a good and bad thing. There's no break during harvest season as we move from corn to tomatoes to peaches and apples with everything in between. It makes for some very long, tiring days but looking at a well stocked pantry and full freezers is well worth it :)

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

I Wrote Your Name

[from my email files, image and author unknown; the instructions are send this to everyone you love]

---

I wrote your name on a piece of paper, but by accident I threw it away.
I wrote your name on my hand, but it washed away.
I wrote your name in the sand, but the waves whispered it away.
I wrote your name in my heart, and forever it will stay.

~ author unknown

---
Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Unexpected Smiles

The Prism
September 17, 2009

The weather has turned cooler yet is for the most part blissfully sunny. The sun is now shining through the kitchen window creating a multitude of miniature rainbows on the wall and floor. I can't help but smiling each time I see them. It's as if Mother Nature is acknowledging the quickly approaching winter months so has gifted us with something to take our minds off of it :)

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Barbie's Fifty

[from my email files]

---

It's about time this happened to her...


-----

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Winter is a Coming!

Jockey
September 12, 2009

Oh my gosh! Things are rather hectic at the moment as we are into the heavier harvest so the kitchen is a buzz of activity. That's a good thing for the pantry but a bad thing for blogging. I can't believe September is more than half over! The weather is already cooling and leaves are starting to turn. The cooling weather is starting to affect the garden as well. At the same time it has sent me into a frenzy of checking for more air leaks and winterizing in my spare time. I've heard the predictions for a mild winter buy I'm not buying that one so will scurry along making all my winter preparations.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Wordless Wednesday - On the Water

On the Water
August 31, 2009

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

At the Races

At the Races
September 12, 2009

I grew up around horses spending a couple of weeks each summer on a horse ranch where I learned to ride. When my husband and I first met I tried to teach him to ride as well. He will to this day claim the horse bucked him off. The real story is it was a pony not a horse and the pony sat down on it's rump so my husband slid off. At no time did the pony attempt to buck but certainly got it's point across. So my husband has not learned to ride. I did however manage to teach him the finer art of the race track. Unfortunately we don't get to a race track very often but we always enjoy it when we do like last Saturday.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Dear Santa

My Christmas List
September 5, 2009

Dear Santa,

How are you and Mrs. Claus? I do hope the elves and reindeer are happy, healthy and looking forward to this Christmas season.

I'm writing you early with my Christmas list because this might take a lot of room in your sleigh. I've enclosed a picture of the beautiful yacht that I would really love. It is the only thing on my list this year. I've been very good this year and if you bring this yacht I promise to share it with all my family and friends. I will even let my husband navigate occasionally. I promise to use it often and take very good care of my new toy!

Have a safe sleigh ride. I will leave you homemade peanut butter cookies and milk, carrots for the reindeer and a couple of jars of homemade salsa for Mrs. Claus.

Sincerely,

Garden Gnome

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Thoughtful Husband

[from my email files]

---
Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

This Is Why Husband's Days Are Numbered!

Deal 'em Up
September 5, 2009

First off before I begin this tale I have to give you a visual. Our house is backwards in that the main living area is on the lower level of an earth bermed home so basically underground. The on ground level is where the games and other rooms are that aren't in regular use. Well they are but they aren't. The games room opens onto the screened in upper patio/sunporch. Before we go to bed we have to secure the patio doors in this area. No problem or at least it wasn't until hubby had a few of his friends visiting. I went up to shut the patio door and spotted what I thought was someone sitting at the poker table. By this time I had already ensured having to change my unders. My mouth was dry as I very slowly made my way to the light switch expecting the arms of Armageddon to bear down on me any second. I flicked the light switch and pictured are hubby's two friends. Ok, so that's not bad enough! I went down and confronted hubby to which he responded in fits of laughter, the occasional snorting and that other thing he does when apparently something is hilarious that defies any description. He actually had tears running down his cheeks from laughing so hard. Well excuse me! Now according to him if someone was going to break into our house they more than likely wouldn't sit at the poker table waiting for other players. He noted that no chips were missing. He also figures if Jimmy Buffet wasn't playing they weren't really poker players either and besides they had no drinks on the go. Well that couldn't be the end of it could it? Oh no! He had to tell his friends [two of them were the parrots!] so now I'm really hearing about it!

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Wordless Wednesday - Night Sky

Night Sky
August 31, 2009

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Still Waters

Still Waters
August 28, 2009

I love waking each morning to see what the water looks like. Sometimes it is very, very blue and beckoning. Other times it is cold, grey with a chill to the bone look. Yet the colours vary almost from minute to minute. It's like a giant television set constantly changing with no annoying commercial breaks! I love the days when the water looks like a sheet of mirro, so inviting. Those are the days perfect for a smooth boat ride yet even then the water can be rougher than it appears. Then there are the times when the water is not as smooth as a mirror yet not quite rough as pictured. There are just thousands of tiny little ripples flitting along making the water's surface shimmer.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

A Fun Day

The Marsh
August 31, 2009

I woke around 2 am with the horrid starts of a sinus attack so was up for much of the rest of the night. Finally about 6:30 am I drifted off to be woke about 20 minutes later by the shrill ringing of the telephone letting us know the plumber and backhoe guys would be here around 8 am. We have been battling plumbing problems since moving here so this time the solution was to run new lines. Our backyard is now dug up, the lawn looks like heck from the bobcat and backhoe and we likely lost a few shrubs. Along with fixing our backyard we will also have to fix our neighbour's back yard as that was the only access into our backyard. Thank goodness for great neighbours! The sinus attack has continued throughout all the noise but at least our plumbing problem is solved.

We also discovered the previous owners had simply run an unprotected hydro line from the backyard plug to the utility light. It was buried less than 4-inches so of course was snapped with the first shovel dug. We keep the breaker to the outdoor switches off unless in use so there wasn't a problem and yes we had the mandatory line locates prior to doing any digging. I really am glad we discovered this line as that could have been quite dangerous. So our next step is running up to code electric wiring from the backyard plug to the dock and eliminating the unnecessary utility light. It's been a fun day in a rather sarcastic, frustrating way.

Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Muskrat

Muskrat
August 31, 2009

Living on or near any water source will give you lots of opportunities to encounter wildlife you might not otherwise come into contact with. I've lived on the water (back yard comes to water's edge) most of my life and spend a good portion of the nice weather boating, fishing or engaging in other water activities so I think I've come across just about every critter the water attracts in our area. Muskrats frequent the smaller water water ways in our area. Shortly after moving into our last house that was on the water we discovered a muskrat that liked to hang out on the ladder steps of our dock. I'm telling you that made me not be all that interested in swimming there! Pictured is one of a few muskrats that make our marina home so I've spotted and photographed them on several occasions.

I have come across muskrat numerous times. I can't say I like them all that much especially when they pop out of nowhere in a dirt floor basement when I was about 8 years old and was sent down there to bring up a jar of home canned peaches for dessert. Our house backed onto the water and much to my Mom's dismay I learned how to swing over the water on the willow branches. I thought that was a rather fitting trade for having to deal with the muskrat which my Mom called a river rat. Unfortunately she did not see my viewpoint. Oh my gosh, just thinking about the stories I could tell about that house gets me chuckling! Anyway, back to muskrats.

The muskrat is a semi-aquatic mammal indigenous to North America. At one time in our area muskrats actually provided early settlers with meat and still do provide meat. Muskrat 'socials' are held in many of the local French Canadian communities are are extremely popular in the French communities in Michigan especially during Lent. Muskrats are easily trapped for food with many in our area still doing so. We could but we don't. I've tasted muskrat once at a wild game event. These types of public events are getting scarcer here (Ontario) because of health regulations but finding someone who traps and cooks muskrat at home is not all that difficult. Muskrat must be soaked prior to cooking to remove a bit of the stronger gamey flavour. When cooked properly it has a flavour between rabbit and duck with still a hint of wild game. It does lend itself to slow cooking as well.


Garden Gnome
©2006-2009

Safety Warning for Trampolines

[from my email files]

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


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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.

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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