Suska's Musings

Summertime...

2011-06-22T13:41:00.001-07:00

And the living is easy, right?
The skies are magnificent!
But wait….
Maybe you’re even busier than ever. Wait! Stop! On this peek-a-boo sunny summer’s day on the cusp of summer … slow down… spend some time outdoors…walk a little more…relax a little more…eat outside…turn off the TV and watch for fireflies instead.
Today over at Jamie Ridler’s it’s wishcasting Wednesday…a wonderful Wednesday practice. Go, visit, see, and immerse yourself in wonderment. What would you wish for? Ponder. Wonder. Wish. Sit and savour the potential of that wish. Go…see…join us…

Jamie Ridler’s Wishcasting

Oh, yes, what do i wish for … this summer i want to stretch, grow, bloom like the flowers in my garden, naturally, unpretentiously, more an unfoldment than a rapid change. This summer is my time to become who i am truly meant to be. I can feel it so close. Now all i need is for you to hold that wish in your heart to help me to fulfill that. And when you post your own wish, i promise, i’ll do the same for you. Simple isn’t it…how spirit works.

Owen's Amazing March Break Adventures with his buddy Ethan

2011-03-29T16:58:00.000-07:00

I just have to share what a wonderful week we had with Owen during his March Break.

We celebrated by making a little book for each of them and I photographed Owen's ... he dictated the words and felt that photographs were inadequate to really express his adventure, so he created some marvellous illustrations. Here goes...

I think the text, illustrations and photos carry themselves. Hope you enjoy the story!

Beginning Again

2011-01-15T06:18:00.000-08:00

So I’ve scrapped the first attempt at “poetry”…and I’ve journaled about it right over that nasty, gloppy painted word, “POETRY”. Done and finished…and well and good that. (for previous posts please visit At Loose Ends in Wordpress...)

Here is the new choice for the next spread.

This will be the next attempt at Poetry...

I think the color may be truer in this shot,

but your monitor will likely alter it anyway...

This will be the next spread after Poetry and "Mystery"

Here is a closeup of the "mystery" page...Have you guessed yet. Check out the choices and place your comment for which "vision word" you think this represents...you may win a piece of my "art"... Pretty enticing eh?

Now I wonder what this circle of posies means...Do you think it will grace one of the four pages in today's post? Which one? Is this another contest? Post your comments and we'll see...

Great " virtual " Reads

2011-01-12T06:49:00.000-08:00

Now and again you come across a blog that blows your mind...yes, you know what I'm talking about. Try this on for size.

The Universe is Your Dog by Christine Kane

“Start by becoming a pack leader in your own world and healing your own world, and the effects will ripple.” – Cesar Millan, The Dog Whisperer

One of the fun assignments in my Uplevel Your Life Mastery Program is what I call “Mental Dress Up.”

This is a game that you can play daily. It is designed to bring intentions to life by literally embodying them in your own being.

Here's how it works:

Take a few moments throughout your day and Be [Fill in the Blank with Desired Thing].

As you're driving you can become a published writer. What would that feel like? When you're at a party, try being someone that everyone wants to talk to. Be wise. Be someone who has so many clients, you can hardly get through a day without turning people down. Be someone who is certain of what she wants. What does that feel like?

Don't get all scrunchy-faced and try to VISUALIZE – which is a very high-pressure word.

Instead feel the effortless shift in you, and BE successful. BE a fun person. BE wealthy. BE a rock star. Whatever!

My client Isabella started using this technique when she decided to “be someone who loves to run with her dog in the morning.” She was amazed at the results.

Typically after a few blocks of running, she’d start wheezing and feel awful. But when she became “someone who loved running with her dog”, she had more stamina and felt great during the run. She got better and better at this game until she actually began to love running with her dog!

One morning, she was returning from a run. Another dog and his owner were walking in her direction. Isabella’s dog, Bruno, is still healing from an abusive past and can be aggressive with other dogs. So, Isabella started to get anxious, clinging to Bruno’s leash.

Then, she remembered Mental Dress Up.

Instead of getting nervous and reacting to her dog’s bad behavior, she focused on how calm she felt and how much she loved her dog. She also played Mental Dress Up on Bruno, feeling that he was always very loving and peaceful around other dogs.

It worked! Bruno was fine. He followed her energy, and they both headed home without incident. To Isabella, this was a nice little miracle.

At this same time, Isabella was beginning a new business. She had experienced a whole range of emotions from enthusiasm to fear to excitement to disappointment during the process. At one point, she met with her accountant. The accountant was skeptical, issuing warnings to Isabella about the numbers and telling her the reasons why the business wouldn't work.

During our coaching call, she shared these stories – about the triumph with her dog and about the discouragement from her accountant. She wanted to know how to deal with her emotions after this deflating meeting.

Here's what I told her:

I said, “Your accountant is your dog.”

Huh?

It's true!

People follow your energy. It doesn’t matter if they are mentors, accountants, lawyers, audience members, listeners, friends, or customers. People follow your energy, just like dogs. You always have a choice to step up and lead them. Just like Cesar Millan has been telling dog owners for years. And just like Bruno showed Isabella in that one situation.

I told her that the success of her business would always be up to her. I told her that every business owner, artist or entrepreneur experiences bad news, good news, depression, loss, gain and insecurity. The decision to quit, fail, or succeed is always hers.

In that moment, her accountant might have sensed her fear and found all the negative stuff he could muster up to dissuade her. He became her dog and followed her energy.

You don't have to be a Jedi master to tap into someone’s emotional state of being. You just have to be human. Had Isabella been feeling confident, most likely the accountant would have presented his views in a different light.

Ultimately, during our coaching call, I told Isabella this:

“The Universe is your dog.”

Everything and everyone follows the energy and emotional state you bring to it. Decide that you can do something, and the Universe follows that decision. Choose to radiate love and wisdom, and the Universe follows that radiance. This is not always an easy place to go. But it almost always teaches us about our own power to create or transform any situation.

And I say, “Now go forth and do! Let me know your results and I'll share mine.”

Christine Kane is the Mentor to Women Who are Changing the World. She helps women uplevel their lives, their businesses and their success. Her weekly LiveCreative eZine goes out to over 12,000 subscribers. If you are ready to take your life and your world to the next level, you can sign up for a F.R.E.E. subscription at http://christinekane.com/

New Me!

2010-12-07T10:09:00.000-08:00

Well, that’s a little misleading, I suppose. I am the same old me, but with a new attitude and a new lifestyle. Day one albeit, but still you have to start at the beginning. And this is my beginning. Oh, I know there have been many new beginnings, which is what life really is all about. Change is inevitable and I am making friends with change and embracing it with open arms and sticky kisses.
What I have begun is a new regime at the Y. I have a “trainer” who is helping me not to overdo and end up defeating myself. She is helping me to pace myself and I am indebted to her kind and gentle direction. I feel very comfortable with her approach to my attempts to take back my life and health.
Now, I realize that this isn’t about art and/or journaling, but in a way it is. I will have to be more focused because I will have to make time to do the artwork, but I think too that I will have more energy and a better attitude! Yes, it’s true I can get weighed down by life’s little inevitabilities. Yes, it’s true that I do tend to have a brain that is velcro for the negative…but whoo hoo according to Buddha’s Brain that is NORMAL. At last, something about me is normal. Whew! Just when I was beginning to believe the world’s rather decisive opinion about me, I find out that they are all wrong, all wet, and certainly, justifiably dismissed.
So wish me luck! And maybe even you might enjoy reading Buddha’s Brain and getting into taking care of yourself. I’ll keep you posted how this all plays out, but I have an inkling that it’s going to be a happy ending.

Add a little sparkle to your life in this season of waiting for the Light.
It’s a good thing to do.
You might just be saving the world by doing it.
True dat.

Fabulous Photos and more

2010-11-25T06:57:00.000-08:00

Just a quick hey and a thank you for following me and my musings.

I think you'll want to hustle your bustle over to Alisa Burke's blog for a wee freebie of four lovely fall papers which will give you another reason to be thankful on this "Yanksgiving".

Hope you're adjusting to the wintry weather and feeling loved.
sus

Playing at the farm...

2010-11-16T11:04:00.000-08:00

Oh we will have such fun! I do hope you can join us.

Visit my work site At Loose Ends. And do let me know if I've missed something

Oh and please do come, we are going to have such fun.

Journaling Workshops

2010-11-10T12:00:00.000-08:00

Coming soon...

At Loose Ends invites you
to join susanna suchak at

Heron Croft Farm
November 27th, 2010
10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

A day away dedicated to …

Mapping the Journey

through an artful

guided journaling process

599535 Concession 2 North
RR #1 Annan, Ontario
north of Highway 26 at Woodford
1 km north of Coffin Ridge Winery

Stay tuned for more details coming soon!

All Soul's Day

2010-10-31T09:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Hallowe'en! Enjoy and have lots of safe fun!

Fragile as a dragonfly's wing

2010-10-14T08:53:00.000-07:00

I often go to church. I know it's increasingly unpopular to admit to such habits, but it's my way... "to go to the temple, the noisome temple" (quoting a famous prayer of George MacLeod – the renowned Celtic Church of Scotland Moderator).

I missed church yesterday because it conflicted with a very important Doctor visit. I have to go to more than one church, more than one denomination in order to feed my soul. But church is still important to me.

However, I struggle with a moral dilemma at church. Well, actually several moral dilemmas. Today I'll share one.

Because I feel Celtic in my Christianity (and many would argue that I am pretty much a heretic Haudenosaunee), I cling to my belief that I am part of a larger picture, that the natural world all around me is sacred. So, it is important to me to honour that sacramentality. To ~ at the very least ~ leave as small a footprint on this earth as humanly possible.

And so I am always asking questions. Is that coffee fair trade? (I refuse to drink it if it isn't) Are they serving it in stryofoam cups? (Really, have they heard of global warming) What alternatives do they offer? (Is there "healthy" juice available?) What do they do with the pittance I drop into the offering plate? (Many churches are going deep into debt just to keep the doors open and frankly I find that a misuse of funds.) Frankly, I think many find me a burr under their saddle. But I know I am not alone in asking these kinds of questions...even priests like Suzanne ask them.

I loved seminary, love to preach, I love to be the storyteller for the "children's time", I love singing (especially if we are also allowed to dance and play drums) and that combination is pretty hard to come by out in the world when you live in a fairly remote rural area. That is, hard to come by, except for church. Well, maybe except the dancing and drumming. Many churches have great acoustics, some have pretty good choirs, and all have the intent to build a community, and to build up that community.

I know the gap between theory (intent) and praxis (what actually happens) is widening. The median age of those who regularly attend church is creeping up into the seventies and at this rate recent studies show that those lovely old buildings will soon be empty and crumbling at our feet. Some sooner than later.

I recently read a statistic that said at the present rate of decline there will be only one Canadian Anglican in 2061. [DISCLAIMER: I don't agree with this site's rationale for the decline, but I think the statistic itself may be true. Especially, if church people keep arguing over non-issues like this.)

And for some other denominations (like perhaps the United Church of Canada) that day may be even sooner in the offing.

When I say this, there is some nostalgic sadness, but there is also the realization that that's the way of old buildings. What remains of ancient chapels, priories, monasteries, and yes, churches are now tourist attractions. And well, they might be. They served their purpose and outlived their usefulness. And Christianity is still intact, albeit in a very altered form.

You see, living organisms grow, change, die. That's the cycle of life. But the reality of that seems to be escaping many church people. Grow, change, die. I wish they would let go of the temporal and really listen to the God they are so fervently ready to foist on others. Because - and I might be wrong - but I think "God" doesn't need the building. But "Godde" does need the church. And that means you and me.

What for? To take care of the sacred that is all around us. To ask those questions. And most of all to listen for the answers. Because they are there in that still, small space...whispering.

May it be so. Amen

Ch-ch-ch-changes

2010-10-13T16:33:00.000-07:00

Every day is a gift, right? And today I am more thoroughly convinced of that than ever. I have been quiet of late. In all aspects, except I have been having fun in my studio. Still that is a quiet space and there I am allowed to be introspective and play. Which is good because play is (according to some studies) good for us , at all ages and for all species. Only adult humans seem to have forgotten this. Our constant low level (or in some people's cases mid to high level) of chronic stress wreaks havoc on our physiology and our mental health, not to mention our relationships.

Where am I going with this?

Well, lately I've been forced to have a good hard look at my health. And the picture wasn't what I was going for. As a mixed media artist, often I don't get the results I anticipated or hoped for. Sometimes, what I get is even better; at other times it's a dog's breakfast. And a dog's breakfast is what my health picture looks like right now.

On the bright side, I have been given a gift that the "bad news" is something that is remediable and has (insofar as tests show) not done any irreversible damage. It does impress upon me that health can be fleeting and that I have to take an active role in that process.

I have added Vitamin D (2000 units per day) and Omega 3 (2000 units per day) supplements to my diet -- at the recommendation of my Family Doc. And he recommends that I go hiking MORE, not less. Does that surprise you? Did me! What a mensch that fellow is and I will bless him the rest of my days. With the dire results from a recent CT scan and carotid doppler I was expecting severe warnings and prescription drugs. I shudder at the thought.

Most importantly I plan to make that a lot of days, many months, and yards of years.

Diet and exercise (think you've heard this one before) will play a big part in that. But so does play. Exercise that is not play will only be a side benefit. Hiking, walking the dog (we will have another some day, maybe sooner rather than later) and more time in the studio as well as outside sketching and perhaps even a little knitting is in my future.

Yes, I have to give up those nostalgic foods, like fresh, greasy chips right off the chip wagon (those were the days Mom), salt just got kicked out of my house (sorry Gran Hazel, no more finnan haddie) and even lay off the grains (see how and why here). And even though some of my best friends are incredible bakers...no more tarts and cakes for me. Seems the ol' adage, "an apple a day" may be right. And come on, veggies and fruits just taste good.

I want to be there when this fellow graduates from University!

What are you doing to take care of yourself?

The Heart of Art - FREE online Art Course for Everyone! - Info

2010-09-28T05:46:00.000-07:00

I'm in a slump. Yup! Even us "up: people get them. It's not so much that I don't have ideas...no my creativity is not hurting whatsoever...it's my doing it muscle that needs some toning. Now, for me that cure is to be part of a group of other artists.

So, as the saying goes...the Universe has conspired to send me (and you too) Tam with a *F*R*E*E* group art workshop. Lots of ideas and lots of conversation. Keeps you pumped and pushes you along. She is quirky and funny and very, very talented.

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So giver a go and let's play with heart!

Milagro!

2010-09-21T08:00:00.001-07:00

Yes, it really is (to me at least) a miracle that my "card" from the camera (which is now at the camera doctor's) is intact...that is my "lots and lots of pictures" are now on my computer's hard drive. And they are also on the card. And they are also on the little memory stick thingie which Margaret Forbes found at the office. Funny that. I've been gone for months and no one else bothered to send it home to me, though I did get a goodbye card (send through hubby) and some other really non essentials. But still it's here now and I am breathing sighs of relief and gratitude. Thanks Margaret!

I realize that I have not been very faithful in my blogging, but there is a reason. Well, all right it's an excuse, but that counts in my books. It's not like anyone who does happen upon this blog ever comments, so I don't have a sense of how many people I am disappointing at any rate.
Perhaps ...
-- and this is how it feels most of the time
-- I am just some voice in the wilderness.
One of those trees falling in the forest that nobody even hears. How do I get you to read? How then do I get you to comment?

I have actually asked questions before...so this time it's serious. If no one comments in the next month, I think I have to rethink the blog. Is it too unfocused, too bland, too wishy washy?
Too rocky to traverse?
I'd really appreciate hearing from someone,
anyone,
everyone.

And here is why.

I have committed myself to doing art. Serious art. Doing art as a life's work. As my "ministry." So I need to be more focused about the blog. It has to be centered around that goal. Perhaps I will need to figure out how to use the scanner. Perhaps, I will have to get a camera since we have no word about the health of the one that tried to catch me as I tumbled down the bank of that stream. It is a good lesson for everyone...doesn't take much water to strike down the digital generation of cameras. Not that any camera likes water, certainly that is true.

I never got much into photography for art's sake. I wanted always to record my family's landmarks and wacky humour, but I never fancied myself a "photographer" and now that I am married to one amazing photographer it's even easier to realize that that is not my forte. But I need to record the progress of projects for teaching's sake and I also need to record my forays into the forest.

Which brings me to the reason why I have not been blogging lately. I have instead been hiking and making art...actually designing projects and workshops that I hope will help people to allow their own inner creative child to emerge and tell their own personal story. If you think that might be a good idea to continue on that track, I'd really appreciate it if you commented, or emailed me, or messaged me on Facebook. Just please say something...I really encourage your honesty.

Since the UCC's emmisaries decided that I am not to be a "paid accountable minister",

I need to discern this route which is one that I was encouraged to take.
It's new territory, but I think it's a worthwhile journey. And I value what you think too.

This journey is one in which I can guide others through too. So please let me know what you think, how you feel about that, what you sense might be part of that journey for me. Thanks.

Learning to be artfully resilient

2010-08-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

I write, I journal, I sketch and draw...I like to make things and that means I use a lot of pencils. But pencils are fragile and because I like a good metaphor...some days I am as fragile as a pencil. Why is that you ask? Well, when I feel fragile (teary), or brittle (edgy) I have to go into my mind and ask myself why this is so.

Some days I feel fragile, weak, breakable. That is usually because I am focusing on the negatives in my life. Living in the past -- and wishing I could change it. Waste of time, people. Living in the future -- and wishing it would be something wild and wonderful. But without doing something in the present this is just a waste of time too.

Some days I feel brittle, like I will break into a million pieces. Often that is because I give someone else my "power" and lose my authenticity and forget my own value. Then I get into blaming and staying stuck with an "other's" opinion of me (or worse yet, what I think they think about me.)

Making art helps me to find that centre in me that knows the truth, to locate my true north and so I would like to share how I learned how art helps me to be more resilient. What is resilience?

Dr. Michael Ungar, Principal Investigator with the Resilience Research Centre (in Halifax, NS), has suggested that resilience is better understood as follows:

"In the context of exposure to significant adversity, resilience is both the capacity of individuals to navigate their way to the psychological, social, cultural, and physical resources that sustain their well-being, and their capacity individually and collectively to negotiate for these resources to be provided in culturally meaningful ways."

My friend, Lani asks questions like the following on her blog of transformational art...
Are You Developing Resilience?
Do you have a strong sense of community?
Are you the hero/heroine of your own story?
Do you see enough good?
Can you voice your goals?
Do you believe...?
Do you have time for insight?
Do you have time for Art?
When is the last time you laughed?
How do you make decisions?
Do you take time to be good to you?
Do you have a journal practice?
Do you take the time for your inner life?
Do you look for ways to be more resilient?

So ... since September is gathering momentum (I've heard the geese doing practice formations lately) I'd like to suggest that you invest in yourself and visit her here. I know you'll like what you see/read.

Then if you, like me, sometimes feel a little "brittle" ... then rush over to here and invest in some personal resilience building. You will certainly never regret it.

Back in the Saddle

2010-08-10T06:16:00.000-07:00

Well, enough resting, it's back to the routine. Writers' Group today, a check-in call to a friend, and tonight the interview.

Wish me luck...and while you're at it check out Momma Zen for inspiring ways to live the best life you could dream of...the one you have.

Oh and while you're at it...visit my friend Michael...for more sage advice. That's where I found the flow chart...

Just back from the Rockies!

2010-08-09T06:21:00.000-07:00

Well here I am back home and happy to be here...though Edmonton was cool and the Rockies well, they were, absolutely awesome.

Many thanks to my friends Rosann and Keith for being hosts par excellence and especially to Rosann for being my chauffeur and tour guide into the mountains. We sure had a great time.

But all good things must end...or so the saying goes...

It's true they do, but then the next good thing comes along which brings me to some great news I received on my return.

My friend Zura has gone online! If you like "arting", if you like fun, if you're even just a little curious, please visit her here.

And then please come back and tell me what you loved most!

Oh, and those lots and lots of pictures I took...

Well you'll just have to go here because my camera took a little dunk when I caused my own little rock slide and fell down a (very steep and dry) stream bank. Sadly, you have to expect that when you step out and take a little risk now and then.

Oh be sure to google Athabasca Falls and Maligne Canyon. Those were the highlights of my trip.

The Real Avatar: Mine - Story of a Sacred Mountain

2010-07-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

Watch this. It's only 11 minutes long, but no matter what you believe in, know that we must join our voices and whatever other resources to stop this greedy insanity.

Next steps...

2010-06-28T06:11:00.000-07:00

Have been a while journaling, meditating, listening to the silence/Silence and am now just beginning to be ready to share once again. I am learning about who I am...and realize that whoever said, "Know thyself." was not being flippant. This is a very difficult task. One must be open to looking at sunshine and shadow and winnowing out the chaff that clutters one's life. But more than ever I realize that each of us needs to use tools to know ourselves...and each of us will need different tools. For me journaling, art, but most of all...being in the natural silence that exists in the woodlands...is absolutely essential.

My prayer for each of you is that you find your "tools" earlier in life than I did.

May there be peace.

Today's meditation is...

"We must assume our existence as broadly as we can, even the unheard of must be possible in it." ~~Rainer Maria Rilke

Choices made

2010-05-21T10:24:00.001-07:00

Ah dear readers you did not vote.
Nevertheless the Universe made a choice for me and
hence I am still at a fork in the road. Which way to go?

No way. For the moment I rest in the wondrous now and
wait for the still small voice to speak.

Best foot forward...

2010-05-16T11:30:00.000-07:00

Every day we make thousands of choices as we venture on the
journey that is life and today is no exception...
BUT tomorrow will be even more so.

Tomorrow I venture out into the unknown...I test my mettle...
I put myself out there and risk the unknown...

I have a very important job interview and so
I must be prepared to put my best foot forward.

But which is my best foot? I leave it to you dear reader. And by
that I ask that you vote for

FOOT #1
OR..........FOOT #2

and I will follow your lead.

Well, if not follow precisely, at least take your opinion into consideration.

Some days the decision is too important
and too complex to be made without assistance.
Thanks

Adora Svitak & Happy Birthday Dan

2010-04-06T19:28:00.000-07:00

Today is the birthday of my youngest child. His name is
Daniel Joseph Carl (but I won't tell you his last name).
He has been one of my teachers. There are others, some
of them are his siblings. I sometimes didn't listen to
them when I should have, so I want to say to Dan and to
his siblings that I am sorry for those times. I hope that
they will learn to forgive me. But I want to also share
that I do hope and pray that I can rectify that mistake
by listening to my grandchildren who are even more precocious
than their parents. As amazing as that may sound. And today
I met another youngster...she is now 12...
who has some wise words for us adults.

So I repeat...let's listen to our children,
our teens,
our youth...
After listening to Adora Svitak I think we can
agree that they definitely have something
worthwhile to share. It's 8 minutes that you won't regret.

Good Friday

2010-04-02T08:08:00.000-07:00

What a delightful day.
Here in Owen Sound it is 25 degrees
celsius that is and we are out
in the backyard. Jeff is raking up the
leaves from the ol' oak tree which
still has leaves on it from last year,
so there will be more raking to come.

I, on the other hand, have the excuse of
having to read for courses...
one at Athabasca called "Writing the Self"
which requires me to journal daily (I know what a sacrifice).

Our topic for the week is Baroque music. Now I love Baroque music
and especially Johan Sebastian Bach's interpretation of it. The
CD we were asked to use is Yo Yo Ma playing the cello which I
would rather just sit and listen to in the dim light of a candle
flame sipping a fine Chilean wine. As many of you will agree, the
cello has the evocative timbre of the human voice. And mostly I
like to read and write to soft piano, nature sounds, or silence.

Bach, coincidentally worked from 1723 as cantor and director of music
at St. Thomas Church and School, and Director of Music for Leipzig,
positions which he retained for the rest of his career. See here
for more info.

I say coincidentally because I attend
St. Thomas Anglican Church
That is I attend when the Spirit/spirit moves me. Still, everyone is
always so glad to see me that I often have a twitch of guilt. Just a
twitch nothing so great as a pang that would drive me to toe the
religiosity line. Now if we were so lucky as to have Baroque music played
to the height of Bach...then maybe I would be drawn. For that music
contained in the stillness of our small sanctuary without the distraction
of people talking exalts my soul and allows me to talk/touch the Divine.

However, here is the rub for me...I love this music. Just love, love,
love it. And yet when I try to do the journal writing called
proprioceptive writing
(a requirement of the course)
it distracts me, seems to talk over whatever emotion I am trying
to explore and I ask myself why is that?

And I ask you too, why is that? Am I just being obstinate or is it
my ADD kicking in? How do you prefer to journal as you explore those
deep issues of life that trigger strong emotions? Music, silence, and
if music helps...what kind of music is it that you tune into?

That said, I must get back outside in the sunshine and partake of
my Vitamin D overdose for the day. It is something to think about.
You can just ponder...but I must get on to journal more, explore
more deeply, just what I've put in your lap.

Flowers courtesy of Rod...Sweeetie, you made my day!

Grey Sundays

2010-03-28T10:06:00.000-07:00

South Austin Museum of Popular Culture...

sort of epitomizes how I feel about Texas right about now...

I know that most people feel that grey days are gloomy and
especially on my only day off at home that might be what you
are expecting from me. But for some reason, today, I have a
different perspective on it. Yes, it is Passion Sunday and no,
I didn't go to church. It is not religion that has altered my
perspective on this weather. What it is is an unintentional
intention. I find myself understanding that this is an invitation
to cocoon myself (with my ramblin' rose of a hubby) in our comfy
cozy little house and just do whatever the muse moves us to do.

Perhaps too this leaf turning is rooted in the disappointments
of his big trip to big ol' Texas. Home has a much larger appeal
in the light of dashed expectations. Home is comfort, where the
heart finds a balm. I am glad to be here. I grasp the nose of
the one I love and realize that reality is what is to be grasped.
Grasped in the here and now...and treasured.

Waxing Nostalgic

2010-03-23T14:01:00.001-07:00

This video reminded me of what I felt was missing from my life
...being a mother of young children keeps you in the NOW...let's
you know that you are needed, necessary, productive. It may be that
you are needed for things that you feel are getting in the way,
that you are necessary, but not necessarily noticed, that you are
productive, like a cow or a machine. But for me there were so many
moments when it was pure meditation to be in that present moment with
my kids. Even when I wanted to pull out my hair...it was all so real.
I wonder how I can recapture this now that I am approaching "old"?

Please share your ideas about how we can achieve
the nowness of those days as we become crones in
the second half of our lives.
Namaste

2010-01-19T14:03:00.000-08:00

It has been snowing all day...a lovely fairy-like scene.
There is much more snow now than in this picture, but I
don't have the camera at home with me, so you'll just have
to use your imaginations...

I have been sleeping most of the day while killing off this
upper respiratory flare-up. I had pretty much licked it, but
then we had two new doors and a window installed in that mild
spell last week and I foolishly succumbed to a relapse. I have
spent my waking moments catching up with EFT

It will be a very busy next 6 months while I finish two Masters
level courses at Athabasca...almost there. Whoo hoo come on graduation!

So this is just to say I haven't forgotten you. I hold you all
in my heart. BUT I will be an infrequent poster for a while until
I get through this bit. Look for me this spring
when we dig ourselves out! Ha ha.
Be well...

And if you want to clear some of your energy for whatever reason
I also would encourage you to visit here. This Aussie practitioner
has videos (free) and lots of narrative info.
Try it! I believe in it so strongly, I have decided to become certified
as a practitioner.

A Chat with Anne Marie Bennett

2009-12-05T05:26:00.000-08:00

Today and for the rest of this week, I am featuring Anne Marie Bennett and her new book "Bright Side of the Road." I only know Anne from the Internet, especially her site about SoulCollage®, but she is so open and real online it makes me want to spend more time with her, perhaps with a glass of wine or a lovely cup of tea. She shares with me and many others about her journey through breast cancer and allowed us to just shoot questions at her. Now to me that takes a lot of guts because when you put yourself out there ... well, I am sure that you all know the various scenarios that can ensue. Without further adieu, I present 5 questions with Anne...

What goes through your mind each morning when you wake up healthy and alive?

Okay, I’ll be honest with you. I’m just like everyone else. Sometimes I wake up really grumpy! But most of the time, what goes through my mind as I go through my days is plain and simple gratitude. I feel grateful to be alive, to be healthy and present in my strong body right now. I also feel joy a lot more than I did before I got cancer. I open up a lot more to let it in.

In your book, Bright Side of the Road, you talk about how your friends supported you. Do you have any concrete suggestions for those of us who are on the "sidelines" so to speak? How can we be supportive and not cause more anxiety by hovering, when a friend or loved one is going through cancer treatments?

First of all, I really loved it when people treated me like “normal.” I’m referring to the people that asked me about my art, or my stepkids, or what book I was reading, instead of focusing on my cancer. Once in a while, it was nice to hear “how are you feeling?” but after a while it got tiring to explain that to people!

Look at it this way: this person you love is going on a journey and you can’t really go with them. Pretend they are going on a vacation to Africa, or another exotic place you’ve never been. What do YOU really want to know about what they are going through? There’s no right answer to this question. It depends on you. If they were going to Africa, you might be the kind of person who asked about the weather, or you might be the kind of person who wants to know more about the animals. Likewise, when thinking of your loved one’s journey with breast cancer, genuinely think about what YOU are curious about. You might want to know if she really likes her doctor. Or you might be more interested in the drugs she’s receiving for chemo, or if her wig itches!

Questions show that you are genuinely interested, but it’s important to take your cues from her. Don’t ask questions if she doesn’t want to talk.

And most importantly, take care of yourself, first and foremost. Be sure that YOU are getting enough rest and good food and time for yourself. You can’t really “be there” for someone else unless you are there for yourself first.

How do you think SoulCollage® would have assisted you in your journey through the treatment processes?

I discovered SoulCollage® (www.kaleidosoul.com) three years after my last breast cancer treatment. It’s an amazing tool for self-discovery where we create a deck of cards that tells the story of our inner and outer lives. SoulCollage® is a very simple, intuitive process and we use only magazine images, scissors and glue to make the cards.

Even though I discovered it after my treatments, it still really helped me in a deep and powerful way. Three years after my treatments, I was still facing Fear (of the cancer returning) in a big way. Also, I hadn’t really integrated the whole journey into my life’s journey. I was still in a place of “Did that really happen to me?” So I made some cards that reflected my feelings about all of this, and I did some journaling work with each of the cards. That really helped me a great deal. You can see these breast cancer SoulCollage® cards on this page of my KaleidoSoul website: http://www.kaleidosoul.com/breastcancer.html

If I had been working with SoulCollage® during my treatments, I think I would have been more in touch with what was going on inside of me, and it would have been a huge help to give visual image to my feelings and thoughts about cancer’s place in my life.

What changes have you made in your lifestyle since recovering from cancer...diet, exercise, spiritual, leisure, relationships?

I feel that one of the biggest gifts I received from the cancer was a major re-routing of my life. You know, I was going along, minding my own business, everything was status quo. And then, bam! A breast cancer diagnosis dropped down from the sky and shattered all my predisposed notions of what my life was all about. I suddenly could see that all the things I worried and fretted over (my job at the theatre, the troubles with Jeff’s kids) were very small compared to what was happening inside my body and soul.

A friend of mine in college used to talk about “the angels rearranging the furniture” inside of us, and I feel like that is exactly what happened to me during my cancer journey. My soul furniture has been rearranged! I do exercise more now, and have a much deeper relationship with Spirit. I make choices relevant to joy nowadays, much more than I used to. I’ve lost 15 pounds and am working on losing more.

Thanks so much, Anne. I have someone in my life right now ... I am filling in for her at work while she is in treatment ... who I am eager to share your book with.

I'll be ordering my copies soon! It has been a great help to me to have some insight into what she is going through...though each person's journey is unique. I hope that I can be a better friend to someone who is journeying through cancer. You have certainly helped me through your insightful book and positive spirit!

False alarm...

2009-12-02T19:23:00.003-08:00

Nope, not yet. Was warm and sunny today. Maybe next week. We'll keep you posted.

Hmmm maybe winter is coming after all...

2009-11-30T14:11:00.001-08:00

EST MONDAY 30 NOVEMBER 2009
..SNOW SQUALLS ARE POSSIBLE TONIGHT..

COLD AIR MOVING OVER THE UPPER GREAT LAKES WILL CAUSE SNOW SQUALLS TO DEVELOP IN SOME OF THE SNOW BELT AREAS. SNOW SQUALLS ARE EXPECTED TO BEGIN LATE THIS EVENING EAST OF GEORGIAN BAY AND DRIFT SOUTHWARD OVERNIGHT. PRECIPITATION WILL BEGIN AS RAIN ALONG THE SHORE AND CHANGE TO SNOW FURTHER INLAND. LOW VISIBILITIES AND SNOW ACCUMULATION 5 TO 10 CENTIMETRES ARE LIKELY. A FEW LOCALITIES MAY SEE 10 TO 15 CENTIMETRES ESPECIALLY OVER HIGHER TERRAIN EAST OF GEORGIAN BAY.

2009-11-28T07:49:00.000-08:00

As many of you will remember, I was a proud part of a pilot study by the government of Ontario (under Bob Rae) which developed Healthy Lifestyle type programming. Community and Collective Kitchens, Community Gardens and Grow a Row allotments in individual gardens, A Good Food Box that connected people with real food and recipes for how to cook that food, and programs that could be integrated into youth programs that brought people of all cultures and walks of life together and promoted understanding and compassion for other.

Now I am up here in Owen Sound and trying to encourage healthy lifestyles where I work with people surviving serious mental health issues. Some days it gets discouraging, but people like Anne Finlay-Stewart of "Around the Sound", the "Sandwich Crew" at St. Andrews Presbyterian and the wonderful generous people of St. Mary's (no website, just this picture I pilfered) lift my spirits with their smiles and their gifts.

More of us need to be aware of a new, old way of living -- one which this post by Maira Kalman reassures me is not only possible, but afloat. And I believe that someday "we shall overcome" ... May it be so in my lifetime.

Quantity or Quality?

2009-11-11T16:36:00.000-08:00

That is my question for today.

Anne Marie Bennett (SoulCollage Mentor, Artist/Coach and author and cancer survivor ) has asked her friends to list one thing for which we are "happy" on a daily basis. This means to me that each day will bring us at least one moment of happiness for which we should be formally giving thanks and since I am Canadian and my official state holiday called, "Thanksgiving" comes in October, I could just ignore that. But -- you guessed it -- I am not going to.

I think that I could list daily another thing which fills my heart and soul with delight for the rest of my life and not even touch the tip of the iceberg called goodness in my life. But even so, it is not the quantity of things, but the quality of happiness and goodness that I want to stress.

We have come to believe that we should, nay deserve, to be happy -- ALL the time. But happiness is fleeting. There are moments and moments and moments of happiness for which we can be thankful. And yet...and yet.
We might also consider being happy or content or mindful of each one OR...

We can just be mindful that we are here now without judgment or comparative evaluation of this moment.

Shadows can bring to mind a deep joy...

or they can be quite scary and mysterious.

Especially when we consider our own shadow sides.

When my children were little, I so enjoyed playing with them, watching them grow, hearing their wonderful ideas, but they grew up and frankly what they choose to do sometimes disappoints me. To be completely honest what they did as small children often disappointed me. Does that mean that they no longer bring me a smile or a warm feeling of "happiness?" Certainly, you know the answer to that. And it isn't some simple thing like the fact that I love them, because some days I don't know how I would explain what it is I feel for them.

Feelings are so ephemeral and subjective, often hard to pin down and name.

How often do we complain that our day off is "miserable" because it is raining, or too cool, or too hot, or whatever. When right down the road from us some farmer who feeds us is praying for rain so that s/he doesn't lose a whole crop, or someone who has no refrigeration is praying for cooler weather so that her/his stock won't die, or someone with small children is dearly hoping for a day hot enough to take them to the local swimming hole? You see, it's all rooted in where you sit.

Now in this photo, the rust intrigued me. Being there was a particularly happy moment.

But when I see a rust spot on my car (and there are far too many) somehow it isn't the same. So I can't say that rust in and of itself brings me happiness. Even sunshine doesn't always bring happiness...just ask those who suffer from migraine headaches. So how do we list what makes us happy? Or can we really put it into words...if so, it will definitely take more than 2 or 3, methinks.

So, please think on what makes you happy...and then just be happy because you know what has made you happy and perhaps you will be mindful of that moment once again.

Peace be.

Colours

2009-11-04T12:54:00.000-08:00

Wow! it's sure been a while ... sorry if you missed me. Just been preoccupied.

I've taken a few courses online by video and boy do I like that method of learning. You can play it over and over again. I learn best by tactile methods, but visual and audio combined is a good start for me too. So I'm lovin' this.

I just took a little quiz and found out this about myself...

Your rainbow is intensely shaded white, violet, and brown.

What is says about you: You are a creative person. You appreciate quiet moments. People depend on you to make them feel secure. You feel closer to people when you understand their imperfections.

Find the colors of your rainbow at spacefem.com.

It seems to fit pretty much ... as much as any broad internet quiz can peg someone I guess. People are waaaay too complex to get with a one shot like that. But hey, it was fun and broke the monotony of a very grey day. Hope you are having some fun with art lately. Here is something I recently played with...

Maybe you think you already saw this...but it's different I used Picassa from Google to flip it and tweak it a bit. Fun learning new stuff, eh wot?

For Bill Loney

2009-10-17T16:53:00.000-07:00

More on perseverance ... Speaks volumes on Flint, Michigan...

'Nuff said.

And you think YOU have insomnia...

2009-10-17T06:56:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Jesse I am able to share this -- especially for Dan -- because well, sleep can be hard sometimes.

Perserverance pays!

Do Ra Mi!

2009-10-14T11:23:00.001-07:00

Change is scary. Transitions are amorphous times.

In order to get yourself on track ... make what you have to do fun. Example below. Never mind you don't read German... the pictures are worth thousands of words. You'll get it!

Creativity

2009-10-10T08:42:00.001-07:00

Hello to all;
Today is a bit of a challenge to me. I am trying to get back on balance after a disappointment, not just a disappointment, but what feels more like a crushing defeat. And it feels that bad because in those moments when the verdict was being handed down, my creativity was praised and in the same breath given as a primary reason why I was going to be denied the fruition of a dream. That said...in my email this morning was a note from Michael Bungay Stanier of Box of Crayons fame and in the reading of that email was a link to a video which was so helpful to me in finding a perspective and balance in all this that I just have to share it.

Well that was interesting, what first came up was a recipe for Baked French Toast which I will be making for a brunch program where I work on Wednesday. I mention this because I am sure that there are no accidents in the universe and that french toast may be one remedy to pain. So if your disappointment is small try the recipe at my favorite recipe site

However, if your pain lingers and/or if you need a kick in your creativity butt try this...

Later in the day...

2009-10-04T14:26:00.000-07:00

Sun is peeking through just in time for supper...Ah me...what can one do?
I came across a neat site and thought I'd share...here you go...

Sunday's Sundazes

2009-10-04T11:56:00.000-07:00

If you want to hear what I have to say today you'll have to head over to the other blog

cause it is Sunday...

Wistful...

2009-09-30T11:30:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe this is the last day of September, to this southern belle (well for Canada anyway) it seems more like mid November...brrrr.

Ah well, that means that those roiling colours of fall will soon be unfurled upon us and that means photog season full blast for Jeff.

Trying to get into the zen of it...

I am a little wistful today...so much going on in my mind...but unable to discuss it with y'all. Still the journalling will soothe this troubled soul.

Here's a few pics to soothe yours or at least your curiosity.

And with that I say see you soon...

Week 3...Resilience, transformation, and art with Lani

2009-09-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

This week we are to research self-taught artists. So this is who I picked...Norval Morrisseau. I have long not only admired, but felt drawn and spiritually bonded with his wholistic approach to art as a tool for teaching and healing as well as his unique approach to cultural cohesion and continuation. I know this is a long video, but I thought I'd share it in case...

Protect Insurance Companies PSA

2009-09-23T08:14:00.001-07:00

Protect Insurance Companies PSA

Shared via AddThis

Early Fall?

2009-09-13T06:07:00.000-07:00

Hate to be a doomsayer, but after the couple weeks of summer just past, it now appears that Fall is here. Witness the Fall crocus and Toad Lily in bloom!

Note the Mother of Thyme tag with no "mother of thyme" in sight. Can anyone tell me who comes in the night to dig here who eats entire plants of thyme!?

Aah well... as she goes.

Short and Sweet

2009-09-10T19:28:00.000-07:00

Am posting two pics and then getting some shut eye...
First
Life in life...
for a challenge from Lani...

It's not very crisp, but it's hard to get a picture of a bee's butt as s/he dives head on to the nectar within the turtle head flower.

Next is a quick 'zendala' (google this...Rick and Maria are really on to something)

The Greening...is coming...

2009-09-06T12:49:00.000-07:00

The concept of community gardens is not new...not to me. In 1994 I became the Executive Director of the London (and region) Good Food Project and hired Mary Yanful to supervise the 4 community gardens going at the time. Mary's name has become synonymous with community garden success in southern Ontario, growing those 4 to 23 at the time of this post with enormous challenges, but always with grace and a lovely smile.

For this she was rewarded with an "early retirement" -- quite unexpectedly -- and much to my (and thousands of others') chagrin.

This concerns me for this regressive move taken by LCRC and The City of London comes at a time when cities all over the world are seeing the wisdom in urban agriculture and allotment gardens. Have a peek and see if you'd like to join us. Here in Owen Sound (and region) there is a movement afoot...won't you help? It's lots of fun and such a worthwhile endeavour on any and all counts. Watch this video and see what I mean...

This doesn't have to be community ECONOMIC development...but it certainly is community development from the grassroots up. Wouldn't it be nice to see that eyesore across from the Information Centre in Owen Sound "greened." It could and can be done. If you agree, let our Mayor hear your vote for community gardening here in Owen Sound! And let's get growing together!

And always remember...gardening is no "grind!

Only those who are loved by a dog and God will get this...

2009-08-31T16:20:00.000-07:00

The gift of simplicity is incredibly complex...watch this

And here is our ol' dog. Failing health, a little clingy, but we loves him...cause he loves us.

Creativity...

2009-08-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

Creativity is a gift, a fleeting moment of inspiration...but those of us who live by their wits and creativity know that we can't take full responsibility for the gift's fruits...

However, we do have to show up and do the work...while we wait for that gift to arrive.

I'd like you to consider listening to Elizabeth Gilbert as she speaks to just that phenomenon. It's so cool. Enjoy!

And for more inspiration visit the TED website at
TED:Ideas worth spreading

Daily Doodles

2009-08-18T09:02:00.000-07:00

I like to play at Milliande's ... if you'd like to join us for some fun "doodling" we'd love to have you ...CLICK!

And do treat yourself right and manage to get a little art in every day. Oh, another thought I just read that there have been studies proving that "eco-therapy" is beneficial. Duh! So get outside and breathe!

2009-08-14T08:32:00.000-07:00

It's SummerFolk! Yeah, if you aren't familiar with it read this article by Bill Henry of the Owen Sound Sun Times. His band, Scatter the Cats will be playing at the Café of the Senses where I will be working this weekend. We have a new stage and sound system so it should be wonderful! See you there.

Visit the official website to get all the details...

By the way, I haven't been posting lately. Know why? Well.....last Sunday we had a doozy of a storm and a tree fell. Apparently though nobody heard it because it fell on the telephone lines in our next door neighbour's yard. They actually live in Toronto though and no one could reach them to get on to the property legally until late Monday night... Long story short Bell has GUARANTEED to have our phones reconnected by next Tuesday...You heard right, next Tuesday. Not acceptable. And we will be expecting a rebate of a week's worth of internet and phone.

Still...we are switching providers. So hopefully I won't have to be offline for over a week again. Sorry about letting y'all down.

Singing in the sunshine...here in Owen Sound by the Bay.

Sketching with friends

2009-08-07T16:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my little corner of the world, where I like to sit and draw, and sketch, and colour, and paint, and just in general soak in the heavenly vibes. The above picture is our little shed at the backyard. It looks like a lovely old, old (and small, small barn)to most of us around here. And I love it.

The other day, my friend Helen and I sat back here and she taught me an art technique that I had never heard of. She used to use it with her highschool art classes. I won't give it away, but I had fun learning it. I am not a quick learner...so it took me a second time after Helen left to really grasp it. Nevertheless, it did stretch me and encourage me to get back into the "art as play" thing. Thanks for that Helen.

And here is a peek at our early clematis. The pink one is still hanging in there...though certainly not so profuse and the white is pretty much finished for this season...

Not to worry...the wildly "bird of paradise" clematis on the other side of the deck is starting to bloom. I'll get pictures to share soon.

Hope you enjoyed this little visit on my back deck and hope also that it encourages you to get in touch with those little gems in your own backyard. Please let me know what it spurs you on to.

A new twist on the mandala

2009-08-04T16:03:00.000-07:00

I have always found mandalas a healing form of art. I know I'm certainly not the first, nor will I be the last. However, I have discovered a wonderful take on mandala drawing that I think would be worth your while taking a boo at.

ZENDALAS--How to

Visit Milliande here to see others' as well as her own interpretations of this neat new artform.

Wreckage...continued

2009-08-02T15:23:00.000-07:00

I am sorry to say that I forgot to take a picture of one of the pages I did...The prompts were Indians and Wild Things and the theme was silence. I decided to collage from the heart about the silence hovering the genocide of the original peoples of North America (in particular) so I used pieces of maps of North America and pictures and words from a pbs tv show. I hope it will be received in the spirit in which I was at the time. I don't like to go around beating my chest and screeching about the injustices done to The People, but at the same time it is at least half of my own personal history so I do need to be open about it. Take it out of the closet and rip off the tape across our mouths and ears.

The other page which I didn't post just yet is here... It is another page from Kim's journal. Theme nature, topic photography. I used material from my husband's old photographs because he is a nature photographer. It turned out fanciful and I am pleased with it. If you'd like to see his recent work go here.

14 secrets Gothic Arches 2009 - a round robin of sorts

2009-07-29T10:33:00.001-07:00

Well I got my "arches" shipped off early. Wow! I can't believe that, but it is true and just to prove it here is what I shipped off earlier this week.

The strawberries and ferns are the "back" of each arch. Strawberries ... because June is "Strawberry Moon" representing reconciliation within the Haudenosaunee tradition. Ferns because it is an old custom to go out to find the "fern flower" on Solstice. In actuality ferns don't bloom into flower -- this is a euphemism for making whoopee in the woods. Hello, young lovers!

And these are the "backs" You'll notice two "doors" these are the covers for the little "book" which Gena will compile using one of each of our pages in each person's "book."

Looking at them now, I realize I should have taken the extra time and given them an all over golden/copper glaze to blend it all in. Please feel free to do that with my page once you get the book. It's all good.

This is so much fun! Thanks Gena for another great summer art activity that brings smiles all year long!

Smove?

2009-07-29T08:49:00.000-07:00

Today is a funky day. Bright beautiful sunshine and I am completely discombobulated. Yesterday I received sad news. Today I am trying to absorb it. To make peace with it. So I am meditating and doing art (of sorts) but then I come across a link to a link to a link. You've all had those days if you -- like me -- are tangential thinkers. so anyway I click a link in my email from Michael Bungay Stanier's "Box of Crayons" One of the coolest Canadians ever. And thanks Michael you have motivated me way beyond where I was going.

So back to the original subject...Michael links me to this video (see below) and I get to thinking. Get out of it, sus. Get on with it. So you lost the chance to reconnect with your dear friend, June next month at camp. So the point is, you knew her. You loved her and she loved you. She changed your life. She changed many lives -- all for the better -- just because she smiled more and did more for others than most of us. And that can make a difference. I'd like you to watch this video and see if it gives you a bit of a slap upside the head. It did me. I think I'll smile more, give more, and get over myself.

Thanks Michael, it's just what I needed to hear today. It's what "therapeutic" art is all about. Hey it's what art is all about. Now I'm going back to the "drawing board" and have some fun so I'll be energized enough to do what I need to do today, and tomorrow, and the next day, and so on and on and on.

A new take on the Wedding March

2009-07-26T16:17:00.000-07:00

I saw this at Laurie O'Leary's facebook site and I fell in love with such a beautiful, unique demonstration of love.

I'd love to attend this wedding. Never mind, I'd love to officiate at it!

True North or centered, balanced, on a good path

2009-07-18T08:17:00.000-07:00

Have you been too busy lately? Sadly it has become the cool thing to be "busy" and for some it is genuinely true. Or we may find ourselves in a short framework where we have much to do and we are busy...but we know that it will pass and we will get back to a rhythm in our life.

However, when we get too busy to appreciate all the good in our lives; to feel truly grateful for each new day and what it offers then our lives are askew and we need to STOP and get back on track.

One place I find respite and a space to contemplate is Keppel Croft Farms and Gardens. The iris there are spectacular, but friends and I enjoy either the spectacular scents in the lavender and thyme garden or in the xeriscape Zen garden. But if you can't make it there why don't you find your own place to spend some time in centering prayer? You will appreciate the benefits...I promise.

How do we slow down? How can we find meaning in our lives? Where can we connect with God in this busy world?

Try Centering Prayer...

14 Secrets for a Happy Artist's Life: Do you know Andrea Dorfman?

2009-07-11T09:40:00.000-07:00

Feeling punky today, but wanted to share some inspiration...so here goes

Please, please, please watch this video...and listen closely...And tell Kate this is dedicated to her too.

And this one too. And try not to take you too seriously...or me either.

Thanks to Dan I now know the musician who wrote the song Tanya Davis is her name. Why not pay her website a visit and get to know her a little better.

Missing you...

2009-07-09T18:11:00.000-07:00

Glass Hat Ladies by Bill Loney
Just click on the thumbnail to embiggen the picture to get a much better view

Hello again. Sorry I've been so long gone. It's just that I feel that I jinxed our region by posting that it was hot and ever since we've had cool weather. Certainly unseasonably cool anyway. But today it got up to 23 C (that's 73.4 ºF) which is lovely, but not exactly July weather (even here in Owen Sound, Ontario, Canada). However, it is a definite improvement so I am apologizing to the weather witches or whoever I cheesed off. So now, can we please have similar weather on Saturday.

Why? you say. Because that is Art in the Garden and Jeff wants to have 3 prints for folks to view. Also we are putting some of the cards into a frame to demonstrate how reasonably priced real art can be.

The "Glass Hat Ladies" is one instalment piece that Bill Loney created in the little bit of Heaven at KeppelCroft Gardens where the Art in the Garden is held. Bill, who along with his lovely wife, Dawn, has created acres of gardens that will just bowl you over. Bill's whimsical pieces accent acres of lovely gardens. And you can see "Dude" the goose and the guinea hens and sheep and just lots and lots of art by local artists who are incredibly talented and real nice folks to boot.

We got the idea from our Executive Director at Canadian Mental Health Association -- Grey Bruce who did just that and it is stunning, if I say so myself. And I do.

The Opening went well at River Café. Here is a map if you're in town, stop by for a coffee and a snack (yummy!)

The Owen Sound Sun Times' Bill Henry put up a wonderful slide show (even though Glow is upside down -- it's not Bill's fault as it was upside down on the CD). If you'd like a little peek at Jeff's wonderful work go here.

Oh one more thing, Jeff's webpage should be up today or tomorrow. Please have a peek and let us know what you think. Visit Mythic Landscape. And thanks from both of us.

Be careful what you wish for...

2009-06-25T13:49:00.000-07:00

Hoo boy! last post lamented that summer was way behind schedule...

but arrive summer did...and with a vengence.

It has been hot humid and more hot and humid.

Today we had a little rain which did clean the air a bit...but we did NOT receive the golfball size hail that was predicated.

People beware of putting those desires out "there" - you just might get those wishes granted -- in spades! Thoughts are powerful medicine.

Here comes summer...

2009-06-11T16:00:00.000-07:00

Well, we are waiting, summer. We are ready. The Sarawak Chicken BBQ is next Wednesday so you can arrive any time. Please, arrive soon.

Wanting and waiting to garden. Wanting and waiting to have meals on the deck. Wanting and waiting to feel the warm sun on my face...

Summer, can you hear me...Now is the time...

A sad day for me...

2009-06-05T17:36:00.000-07:00

A modern day saint, and someone whom I consider instrumental in my own "faith" formation has cycled off the planet, transitioned...The world will miss you Thomas Berry and we will be the poorer for your absence...and wisdom.

Rainy day...hunkering down

2009-05-27T08:24:00.001-07:00

Although I am baking bread and doing the laundry because it is the only day I can do that sort of thing, I am finding it (the rain that is) softly encouraging me to hunker down. Might be partly due to the topic for Sunday's sermon...but you'll have to visit Meaford to find that out...

Still as worried as I am about Sparky's health deteriorating, I am just going to sit back and soak in the day (pun intended). Hope you'll find time for at least a one minute meditation.

While this is a little longer...take a break and love yourself a little. Enjoy!

Being hopeful...

2009-05-22T16:54:00.000-07:00

"Hope is a better choice than fear..."

Watch this video by Dr. Barbara Frederickson and learn why...

Connect

2009-05-22T04:53:00.000-07:00

Enlighten yourself...

A real holiday weekend!

2009-05-18T14:04:00.000-07:00

On Friday night/Saturday early, early morning, I had a little health scare. No details...just suffice to say that I realized that I needed to take a vacation from stress and worry...which meant I actually rested a lot on Saturday (Jeff's good advice. I did a wee bit of art, read a tiny bit, knitted one repeat (4 rounds) of socks and generally stayed on the couch. Then Sunday I took the day off (gasp!) You heard right I did not attend any church on Sunday. I can't believe it myself...but you know what...it was a great day. More -- in larger doses -- of what I did on Saturday, but I also made supper and it was good too. Then today it was warmer, well the wind had died down and that made a big difference. So more of the same and a little (very little) gardening thrown in. I am starting to feel like my old energetic self and also feeling very hopeful and positive...something that has eluded me for a bit...Won't go into details about that either. Just say, I am doing the "morning pages" again and getting in touch with both me and God. Not a bad thing, that.

Happy Anniversary, my honey!

2009-04-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's been a sweet 16 years!

I can't give you the world, but this is a small attempt!

Earth Hour!

2009-03-28T09:39:00.001-07:00

Join us and experience the true dark. It's the right thing to do and it is MAGICAL!

Taking care of our anger

2009-01-26T06:22:00.000-08:00

Well, my pretties, I have neglected you. You have every right to be angry. But let us view this video and be open to the teaching...
Ram Dass interviews Thicht Nhat Hanh

Happy 2009! with some neat new (to me) music

2009-01-07T14:43:00.003-08:00

Just had to share with y'all this new music I just heard today. A very gifted fella by the name of Andrew Bird ... this is a live performance at the Bonnaroo Festival. He sings, whistles, plays violin, guitar, and glockenspiel -- all in one piece!
Give a listen and see if you agree.

or if you prefer here he is with Ani DiFranco

Happy 2009

2009-01-07T14:43:00.001-08:00

Hope, Peace, Love and Joy

2008-12-24T18:10:00.001-08:00

Merry, merry Christmas!
....and let your love light shine...

Computer woes...

2008-12-09T12:02:00.000-08:00

Gee my friend, and inspiration, Lani honored me with an award...just when my brand new computer decided to die! Eeek! I am trying to honour that, by sharing the award with some of my faves too, but it is slow going on the iBook on the dining room table. I am working on that, but in the meantime, visit Lani's 14 secrets blog...You will be inspired whether or not you are an artist or art therapist. Art heals! Giver 'er a go.

Snow there!

2008-11-25T15:24:00.000-08:00

Well, we've had a lot of snow, but the milder weather (and rain) has made short work of the snow.

Last night we watched the snow on the side deck railing gradually become a twisted and curling ribbon and finally it just collapsed.

Next door the roof snow was sliding slowly down their steel roof and it hung precariously till after we had gone to bed. This morning half of it was in the front yard. Tonight you can actually see grass and I imagine this continuing trend will take us back to square one.

Kincardine on the other hand (Jeff had to go there today) had twice the snow as we did, so they still have a couple of feet on the ground. Well, that was this afternoon. Who knows what will be left by morning.

I finished my Lindenhoff scarf. My little tribute to a marvellous family mill that has closed down. I will miss it and the ambiance of visiting a working mill and buying wool fresh from the dye vat.

I begin today my little triangle hat. I'll post pictures tomorrow.

The Green Party of Ontario here in Owen Sound voted me as co-President. Joachim Oostertag is my side kick in that position. Two rookies! Argh! I guess we'll learn a lot together.

So I'm off to knit and finish my wine by the fire. Can't get much better than that.

New computer is all set...

2008-11-20T18:16:00.000-08:00

Whoo hoo. Sorry to be so behind in posting, but this is a really hectic, screwy week.

The marvellous new computer that Dan built is now humming along and I am starting to get the hang of the new Microsoft Office Suite...

Otherwise I am up to my eyebrows in work. It's late, but I promise tomorrow...
Yeah, I know, I've said that before.

Oh, yeah, we skipped right past Fall into Winter...snowy blowy sit by the fire winter!

More recent pictures soon...

2008-11-12T06:39:00.000-08:00

I got out in the garden yesterday and replanted all my narcissus bulbs which the squirrels had scattered here and there. I thought they didn't like narcissus, just tulips, but these fellas hear a different drummer.

Mostly the last few days have been rainy, and dull, but yesterday the sun broke through for almost half an hour. Yeah, I know, but I'll take what I can get.

Tonight is the Pottawatami Weaver's and Spinner's Guild meeting. The last for the season, I think. I think I'll ask a couple of friends if they'd like to join me.

Excuse me, I have to pause to peer at lovely Mrs. Cardinal outside my window. There now she's gone so I can get back to posting.

Jeff left the car so that I could "get out". I know he worries that I stay so close to home AND the phone waiting for some return calls that have me on pins and needles. Maybe I should take him up on his offer...

Well, I am off to knit for a bit and then I think I'll just meander over to Riverside Yarns and visit with Colleen and see how the class is shaping up. It starts next MONDAY. Hope you can join us!

Home again, home again...

2008-11-08T12:21:00.001-08:00

Ah.. most of the birches have lost their leaves. What a lovely weather week just past. Got to spend one afternoon working outside at a picnic table and was most appreciative to our workshop facilitator, Susan Nienaber a senior consultant with The Alban Institute learning about "Talking about the tough stuff" and I would highly recommend it. If you ever (and I mean e-v-e-r) get a chance to attend one of Susan's sessions or workshops run to sign up. Greatly beneficial!

A small group of us went into Paris, (Ontario that is) to soak up the excitement on Election Night. I was so delighted when President Elect Barack Obama "took" Pennsylvania and Ohio and I was able to drift off to sleep when we got back to Five Oaks after I had a wee celebration via cellphone with Jeff and some friends. A brave new world, let us pray. And may we keep Mr. Obama and his family in our prayers. It must have been a bittersweet day for him. I was sad that his grandmother didn't live to see this glorious day. Well, maybe she did see it, who knows.

Was so glad to get back home though and just BE with Jeff and soak up the home vibes. Gosh I miss it.

There is much happening over this next week. Will keep you posted as possibilities unfold.

Go gently, everyone you meet is struggling one way or another...

Pretty, pretty sunny day!

2008-10-31T08:29:00.000-07:00

Ahhh yes, Fall can be beautiful even toward the ending of October. Well, I suppose there are places (even in Canada) (and yes, I have lived in them) where Fall is just getting started.

Why London had a whack of snow just this week and we have barely seen more than a few flakes here in Owen Sound. Go figure!

But today as I come out of the oculo-respiratory syndrome of my post flu shot the sun has graced us with one of those spectacular late Fall days. I feel better physically and mentally.

Spiritually, I have been reading. And reading. And reading.

Tomorrow we get to talk about Gretta Vosper's new book (well, it may actually be her first one) and that has me very excited. Way up here in what many in Southwestern Ontario would call the hinterlands, we are talking about Progressive Christianity.

I wish I weren't going away to Francis Sandy because I'd like to stay over and continue the discussion on Sunday, but that would just put me in a bind for how to get to FSTC. The first 3 days are on Conflict Management -- and who couldn't use a little info on that!? So I am torn.

I'd also rather stay home and make soup and bread and have friends over and work on getting the garden ready for winter...At least Jeff will have a new pair of socks before I go and I have enough thrums made

(a whole bowlful)

so that I can work on mittens. They are from Fleece Artist and of course you can find their yarns, kits, and patterns at Riverside Yarns. And then it is on to Christmas knitting...Knitting by the fire...or...

Life is full of choices. Or is it?

Punkin chuckin' (and potato pitchin') in Kemble!

2008-10-25T16:34:00.000-07:00

Hello, hello, on this rainy/sunny/rainy/sunny/overcast/sunny day!
Yes our weather is changeable in this season of transitions, but it was still a go for us ruggeds and rurals here in Grey County.

Finally, The Harvest Blowout has arrived.
The children are all lined up holding their precious pumpkins behind Keith the Kemble Piper, the contestants behind them, but of course the local politicians and celebs are right up at the front. And they are piped in and the games begin! This was the fourth annual and it won't be the last. This is going to be a long-lived tradition, I tell you.

Wow! what ingenious artillery to behold. Catapaults, trebuchets,, and compressed air potato bazookas! All made with begged, borrowed and scrap materials. Ah...mazing!

The "big guns" hurl small pumpkins hundreds of feet which must fly through the air in one piece before landing. The contestant gets disqualified if they blow up the pumpkins rather than shooting them out.

There was one especially powerful machine that successfully exploded numerous pumpkins. And though they are disqualified the audience definitely has a warm spot in their hearts for these mavericks...

But the most ingenious new gizmo was the exercise bicycle powered potato pitcher thingiemabob. A school project by a bunch of real talented guys. Good on ya'!

Great fun, especially if you enjoy standing in the wind getting soaking wet and waiting for the sun to come back. Nah ... really ... it was fun. Especially when you get home and curl up in front of the fireplace and knit! Heaven!

A real community gathering -- and unique. Saw so many friends, drank hot chocolate, ate a hot dog (yes, really) and shared apple pie with Jeff. Can't wait for next year.

Now I have to get back to knitting...

October is coming to an end...

2008-10-24T07:03:00.000-07:00

I keep promising myself (not to mention you, dear reader) to be more regular in writing, but some days there is just more interesting stuff calling to me. Like knitting. I am almost done the sample sock for the class I will teach in November/December. I am quite delighted with it and will post pictures as soon as I have delivered it to Colleen at Riverside Yarns for viewing and stroking by interested knitters who hopefully will sign up to take the class.

We are settling in nicely here. It feels like home, like it's been home for so long, and I've just been away for too long a time. Fall is settling in and we are losing the colourful leaves quickly. This morning when I went out to hang the sheets and towels to dry there was ice in the wheelbarrow and the clay saucer that Mrs. McDuff prefers to drink from (rather than that lovely Barney bowl in the kitchen). Yes, it is cool, but today the sun decided to give it a go and shine, so Jeff has another great day to be out shooting the "wild" with his camera(s).

I miss the hustle and bustle of the campaign office and I miss having something purposeful to do within community. It was fun being part of a harmonious team, herding er...training and supervising volunteers, clinking away on the computer entering data, answering a thousand questions, problem solving meetings. Oh I could just go on forever, but then I'll get myself feeling sad.

Not that there's nothing to do. Jeff tried on his sock last night and said he didn't want to take it off, so I better get busy and finish sock #2. It is a prototype for a "clock" sock. I call it the Travel Clock Sock and perhaps we can do that as a class in January (always weather dependent of course).

Then friends are coming for supper tonight...

Anniversary Sunday at Sarawak is this week and we are down for vegetables.

And the first week of November it is off to Francis Sandy once again.

Not to mention the job search. Boy it's rough here to find paid employment, but we soldier on...

So life moves on. And life is good, if ever changing.
going gently...

Greening the Economy

2008-09-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

Well, I am busy, but I just couldn't miss an opportunity to tout this website Green Jobs because duh... what's with all this economy versus green? It's a no brainer. We need more jobs. We need a strong economy. Put them together and you've solved the problem.

Now I don't mean to be simplistic and I am no economist, but I don't think there are miles between the two. They are linked -- inextricably linked. You rape the earth, you run out of resources. Indigenous peoples around the globe could have told us that. But we wouldn't listen, because it didn't come out of a book. But now it does.

I am presently reading The Universe Story (subtitled: From the Primordial Flaring Forth to the Ecozoic Era--A Celebration of the Unfolding of the Cosmos) co-authored by Brian Swimme and Thomas Berry. I'd recommend it. The cosmos isn't ours to ravage; it's ours to safe-keep. We misread Genesis if we think otherwise.

Just a few words for today...going gently...

Kermit would approve!

2008-09-16T08:31:00.000-07:00

Kermit -- being a frog -- would be so pleased to know that we are jumping in with both feet and doing what we can [outside of our own little corner of the world] to put into practice what we have long believed to our core...that everyone has a part to play in fixing what humanity has done by polluting our environment.

Since Stephen Harper needlessly called this hasty election, we decided to work toward making Canada the great country that it's people make it -- especially the original peoples -- and put all our efforts into this short time frame to make our government reflect our beliefs and the beliefs of so many others that the environmental problems are rooted systemically in short-sighted and adversarial governmental policies. As voters we can make our voices heard and get out and talk to the candidates, query them on their policies, their records, their value systems. Yes, we need to make our voices heard and "be the change we wish to see" (to paraphrase The Mahatma, Ghandi).

So I am announcing that we -- as a family -- are playing a part in electing Dick Hibma to the Federal Government to represent our riding as a member of the Green Party.

This gives me little time to blog and I apologize for that. Life is too short to waste it on the computer. There is much to do. Let's party after the election and get a minority government in that also outs the Conservatives and their "hands in our pockets" policies and end the codependency of government and the corporate sector's "bottom line" mentality. Check out these websites:

The Green Party of Canada

Shane Jolley Be sure to vote in his Poll!

The Owen

and check into the blogs in the left menu. There is much wisdom out there and little time to do what must be done to stand up to the "Empire" and live in the "Kingdom." Peace and plenty -- for ALL.

Summertime

2008-08-21T07:47:00.000-07:00

Well it seems so long ago, but we did have Owen here for a visit and that was lots of fun. We went to Harrison Park and paddle boated, climbed, played on the equipment. Just had a wonderful time. What a lovely park!

We also took him out to the Harley-Davidson dealership where he enjoyed playing with a scaled down 18-wheeler. It was hard to convince him to leave, but once he got to the park he had a great time.

Tonight we'll go for a little walk right up to the Bruce Trail from the park. Ask me what I love about this place.

Just finished Lunar Drift by Marlene Cookshaw and I'm breathless. What a word smith. Sometimes I had to stop at the end of a poem to contain myself and to absorb the words and the meaning. Such huge images and yet so visceral with an inner resonance. I'll share just one little piece...the last few lines from the book.

"...Or let ourselves
a place in the exquisite hive, accept
the slur of the unformed, shed our brittle
exo-worldy-skeletons. We could be,
only more so. We could meet the world."

So run, don't walk and get this book. Here's the publisher's website.

Serious Apologies...

2008-08-19T08:43:00.001-07:00

Well, for those two or three of you who actually do follow my blog, I owe mucho sorries. I am now getting organized and will be back online.

I promised photos...

Here's one spot Jeff called me from while he was taking a training program at UBC. Not too shabby. He took lovely photos and we've already had a couple of slide shows just for us. I am so lucky to have such a talented husband.

We are settling into Owen Sound and I have found myself feeling more contented than I can remember here. Friends, being closer to nature, and many prospects of challenging and intriguing opportunities. Life is really, really good.

Summer Folk just ended and I'm still missing it. Wow! If you ever get a chance to get to Owen Sound for Summer Folk do NOT miss it. Incredible! Waaay better than Home County and it can compete favorably with SunFest (London). What a feeling! You know I always thought live music could bring peace on earth and it does. Now let's try to hold on to that for the rest of the year.

No pictures of it though...too busy just grooving.

We had friends up from London and I hope they enjoyed themselves half as much as we enjoyed their company and showing them the "sites". It's such a pleasure to host people and introduce them to our little corner of paradise.

I know I promised pictures, but the weather has turned cool (and I mean cool) so it's such nice weather to get in some winter knitting. I have a feeling that I'll be enjoying the winter wrapped in a new sweater or two.

Oh, yes, I attended a poetry workshop with Liz Zetlin and I am inspired to get seriously down to some writing too. Did two poems one was first impressions of the morning and the other was to capture the "essence" of our experience(s) of SummerFolk.

I'll share one poem with you...

First Night 2008

Sunshine soothes
blues and blue
skies surprise
drops and plops
rainbow and shadow
tarp rustle nest
SummerFolk fest.

Enjoy every day..there's a lesson in each sparkling moment.

I have so many pictures to show you!!

2008-07-14T18:04:00.000-07:00

Oh yes I do, but you'll just have to wait because there are lots of projects in the works. One of them is to find the little cable thingie (I know that's rather high tech language, but look it up eh?) to plug into my cell phone so that I can upload those photos on to my big ol' dinosaur of a computer. But though I know that I have seen it recently I cannot for the life of me remember where it is. Say it with me, "Moving is soooo much fun."

I'll find it soon and I'll share some pics of the backyard (which is looking much better than a week ago and some lovely shots that Jeff took with his cellphone in Vancouver, B.C. where he is ~~vacationing~~ taking some training for work.

Promise, tomorrow, pictures.

Buried under boxes!

2008-06-29T19:54:00.000-07:00

Well, we're still digging ourselves out, but we're here and we're here to stay.
Be back soon, but for now, here's a little fireworks to celebrate Canada Day, Fourth of July and the sadly defunct Freedom Festival between Windsor, Ontario and Detroit, Michigan, courtesy of my son Dan. By the way, just so you know, this shot and the one below were taken from the window of Dan and Mal's new condo! Pretty snazzy they are!

Those were wonderful times at the Windsor-Detroit International Freedom Festival

Glad they managed to save the international fireworks and the spirit of harmony between our countries -- even if the politicians seem to have forgotten the glorious friendliness that always existed between us.

Caveat emptor --- especially when purchasing a house

2008-06-21T16:51:00.000-07:00

We bought a house. Well, we thought we bought a house. This is what the house we thought we bought looked like the day we first saw it.

And this is what it looked like shortly after.

and a closeup of the magnolia tree just coming into bloom.

Lovely isn't it?

Well, on Wednesday we went in for a final inspection...

OMG It was not a pretty sight. It looked like a bunch of tramps had trashed the place. It was filthy. Broken glass littered the lane just in front of the garage doors -- which were akimbo at a dangerous angle and unopenable. That lovely little mailbox you see in the photo was replaced with the cheapest brassiest monstrosity you could imagine. So that was before we even got through the front door!

Then we walked in and I thought I was going to be physically ill. Food left on plates, in buckets on the counter. Potatoes in a drawer that had 6 inch eyes on them. The garage, the basement and the backyard looked like a landfill on a bad day. I don't know how these folks did it -- they had vacated the premises for their own little cozy apartments and left us a mini Katrina to deal with.

Then we trudged up the stairs and -- yup, you guessed it -- more scavenging, more dirt, more disappointment. Can you imagine this? Now to be fair, I don't think the woman of the house did this, but it was (as the house can evidence) a nasty, acrimonious divorce situation. So someone who was cleaning the house out -- really cleaned the house out. The curtains from all three bedrooms were gone, vanished, nowhere to be seen. The shower head and shower curtain rod were not there. No matter how hard we looked. These chattels that we had seen with our own eyes at the first visit, at the second visit, at the house inspection...simply had been figments of our imagination. Because although they were legitimate chattels of the house we agreed to buy, now they no longer existed. Hmmmmm.

Not to mention a fire door between the garage and the basement which has been demanded to be installed as part of the purchase on April 11, 2008 was (and we were to take their word on this)on order and soon to be installed. Well, when we did manage to get the sales receipt (after many letters between lawyers) we can see that this door that was part of the sales agreement was never ordered until MAY 27TH! 3 weeks for a custom order from Home Depot is not acceptable. Not fair, not fair, not fair. Not to Home Depot, not to us, not to anyone. Bad faith. Dishonesty. Our lawyer called it chicanery. What a perfect word. We won't print what other words he called the vendors and I can't print what I'd like to call them.

So Friday last was supposed to be closing day. Was any of this remedied by then. NO. Not one thing was done at 4 pm. We could not satisfy ourselves that any thing would be done and our lawyer could not register title by 5 pm. So guess what!? As we close with the sale of our home (our very lovely, clean and welcoming home) on Monday, we -- for all intents and purposes -- are homeless!!!

Oh there is some talk of remedies by Monday and a closing on Monday and still we have not heard that they will even agree to an abatement (holdback) so that we can remedy these things ourselves. We don't know what to tell our moving company. We don't know what will happen to our kitty who has been very patient through this entire unsettling process.

But I haven't yet told you the whole story. Apparently there is only one key to the whole house. A house with 4 exterior doors and only one locks. Well, one door is still to materialize because it is "on order" and one door -- never had a lock. How very quaint and lovely. This a town that is so secure with citizens that are 100% trustworthy, such a fairytale haven that it is entirely unnecessary to lock your doors. Insurance companies knowing this would just welcome any claim for theft or damage to the property because it would be such an aberration that they would feel compelled purely out of compassion to compensate such misfortunates who actually were the first in the history of the town to have such a tragedy occur. Yeah right...and I have some swampland to sell you and a bridge that you can pick up for a song.

So here I sit venting my spleen because I am trying to hold on to my anger before it gives way to despair and depression. If you are a praying person, please say a little prayer for me and Jeff and Mrs. McDuff. At least we have friends, family, and an abiding faith that right will prevail, but some days it's a little hard to keep up the stiff upper lip thingie ya know?
for now....
going gently...

Going down, down, down...

2008-06-12T16:45:00.000-07:00

Well, some time on Friday night or Saturday morning, Rogers will shut down my internet. Bell sympatico will start up the new account some time around the 23rd, so I'll bid you all a little adieu until then. Have a great week or so and send powerful packing thoughts, and lightness to my heart.
See you soon!
going gently, susanna

Getting down to the wire...

2008-06-09T08:51:00.000-07:00

A little packing left, but we are off to Owen Sound today. Thankfully the weather will be a little more amenable. Bringing special stuff -- like my spinning wheel, the slide projector, and the transplants. The weather forecast is really too hot and stormy to leave them even for the couple of days we will be gone. Next weekend we lose internet capabilities -- at least on the home front. I won't be able to post, but we'll play a little catch up when I get back on.

We will just arrive and the company will begin! Yeah! Tara and John, plus Lucas, Noah, and Anna (this is last year, but if you squint you can tell how they've grown!
Anna pictured here more recently

Soon it will be time for the rest of the tribe to visit. I can't wait to show them the sights. There is so much to do, see, live where we're going. Certainly I'll miss somethings -- like seeing Owen almost weekly (now I have to stop that or I'll bust out bawling. -- like veggie dinners with Vera and Dave, like El Ranchito with Bob and Patti (but they will be up for the folk festival in August --
Moving is good,
but it is also a little sad.
I don't know how I'll manage,
but feet don't fail me now!

Tagged!

2008-06-05T10:20:00.001-07:00

Well, I can pretend that I'm worthy enough to have been tagged, so since Finn (from Pink Lemon Twist) agreed consider me tagged.
I am so lazy!

What were you doing 10 years ago?
The best jobs in the world! ED Good Food Project (then along came "Mike"), being a mum, and married to a most marvellous man
Sigh...I miss that, well except for the married part, that's still happening.

What are 5 things on your To Do List for today, in no particular order?

1. get to Huron U library
2. knit
3. work on my paper
4. read
5. maybe do a little spinning (oh yes, we have to go to a dinner party so that might not happen)

What are some snacks you enjoy?
peanut butter spoons (family joke that), popcorn and baby carrots (not necessarily at the same time) well...peanut butter is a great dip for carrots...

What would you do if you were a millionaire?
I would put 1,000 in each grandchild's education account and get all my family out of debt and fix up my new house in Owen Sound so that it is essentially "off the grid" and then I would fund a project like Good Food in Owen Sound. And oh yeah, I'd buy a ton of fleece and yarns ... Am I out of cash yet?

List the places you've lived...
OMG this is going to be a long list!
Roseville on a chicken and rabbit farm(now it's called Windsor), Windsor, Walker Farms, Sandwich East (then it turned into Windsor), Ingersoll (it's the family farm), Chatham (momentarily but I have to count it ugh), Tecumseh, Ottawa, Puce (near Windsor, but not quite in Windsor), Belle River (it might be called "Lakeshore" now since "Mike" [an Ontario joke that's not remotely funny]), Belleville, Salford, Ingersoll (in a manse), Woodstock, Riverside (twice) (that's sort of in Windsor), London (twice) and soon Owen Sound (and that doesn't count all the moves)

And now I'm tagging you Holly

Truckin' along...

2008-06-04T07:58:00.000-07:00

Well, this expression captures what I am feeling today. Almost finished ye ol' Celtic Vest, I
got to thinking, (it does happen) "hmmm... I don't think I have enough yarn to make it to the end.... hmmm...this looks awfully small... hmmm" Yup, I won't be able to finish, but worst yet is that using the 6mm needles the yarn calls for, means I don't get the gauge the pattern calls for. Though they suggested 7mm needles, but that created a too loose fabric for my taste. So I bought Knit Picks Options for naught. Well, not for naught, but I could have waited and bought entire sets which would have been less expensive. Though they are truly worth every single penny!

So I turned to working on the "Cut Your Teeth" socks (the picture is inside out, but it proves that I did have something to start with -- actually two almost down to the ankle at one time) which I started just before I broke both wrists and had to retire ... Well I couldn't get the new KnitPicks circulars out once I got them into the stitches, so I had to cut them off. But, once I got them off they unravelled unevenly and I ended up ruining them. I should have known to just put it up when it wasn't working, but there are evenings when I just want to knit and I stubbornly tink or ribbet along. Usually this just ends in going back further than I had planned, but now I'll have to completely redo these socks. Which I definitely will as they are too cute not to.

One boon -- the cool and rainy weather is allowing me to dig up, root, and pot some bits and pieces of the garden. It seems to be succeeding and these transplants will venture north with us as we continue on our Big Adventure of moving to Owen Sound. Coming soon! Oh I better get packing.

Picture one is a grape hyacinth and a trumpet vine sucker. The grape hyacinth because it will spread and look great in the alpine garden we are planning. The trumpet vine because the hummingbirds will love them! Proof positive -- the picture is worth a thousand words! (but you'll still get the words)

Thanks to the folks at Hilton Pond for the incredible photo that so perfectly illustrates my point.

Saugeen Community Blog: Good Food Box Program

2008-06-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

Moving to Owen Sound has so many perks! For one thing local food. Community Shared Agriculture is also a topic many are keen to talk about. I am quite happy to see that there is also a Good Food Box program in place. Check it out!Saugeen Community Blog: Good Food Box Program

Knitting inspired from the garden...

2008-06-02T10:15:00.000-07:00

It's hard to top the iris for gracefulness in the garden.

This deep purple one makes me like the colour. I never thought I'd wear it,
but there is a tinge of this colour, just enough to sparkle,
in the new vest I am knitting
from Fleece Artist.

This is a closeup of the stitch pattern, in which you can see that "sparkle" thingy happening.

Actually this project progress shot is a little misleading,
I knit a bit last night and am onto the decreases for this front.
The other front will require picking up the stitches from the start
and continuing on around.

Now since I don't fancy skewering myself on some long pin,
if I could just find buttons that match this little Batchelor Button from my garden ...

the Celtic Vest (it's the one on the top right)would be just perfect!

Suska's aside: As always do the clicky-clicky thing to see bigger pictures. Be back tomorrow!

Sunday evening, coming down...

2008-06-01T17:49:00.000-07:00

Ah, the quiet that descends
when I am alone.
Solitude welcomed.
Part of my new rhythm of life,
the quiet aloneness
soothes and invites me
into new spaces.

Jones Falls in Pottawatami River Conservation area --
FIVE minutes from our new home.
Waterfalls are places of energized calm.
Visioning being there, I can feel the spray!
Hear the rush of water, imbibe the ions and energy.
This is the third waterfall we can drive to for a supper picnic.

I am enjoying this peace before the mad frantics kick in again.

This evening around suppertime
sun came out
wind was soothing, soft
Solomon's seal blooming
pale green rimmed bells aloft
Five good sized plants and
two babies from the
original one planted
three year's ago.

Tonight's little attempt at Haiku.

Low sky sun

lit purple

lilting iris danced

Now, my new garden idea...
this cedar-on-rock formation could have been
the original inspiration for bonsai.
Bonsai artists wire roots over a rock --
neatly prune and train the plant to resemble the
rugged beauty of hardy trees in nature's rocky spaces.
There are so many wonderful specimens up near our new home.
So Jeff's little cellphone shot has encouraged me to try this.
It evokes such serenity.
Go peacefully and
rest for the time being.
For the time being is
what lies before us.
It is all that lies before us.

It's the weekend, so it's rainy and cool...

2008-05-30T08:09:00.000-07:00

Aw, so what's up with that, you say and continue on with whatever you have to do. And so would I say so too, but it's almost June. Come on already.

Sure I have lots to do, but it's colder inside the house than outside. So that means it's real cold in here. And once it's May (or even earlier) I like to put on the Birks and leave the socks in the drawer...for e-v-er. Not that I don't continue on knitting socks or rather reknitting heels as here...

My tootsies are cold, my nose is cold, and all I want to do is drink copious amounts of hot beverages. But my calendar says I should be out riding my bike, hanging the laundry, reading in the garden, sketching a toad (like I did for 3 hours yesterday), or even pulling weeds (even though it's not my garden to worry about, it's still my garden, if you get my drift). So I'll try to muddle along, but I am ready for spring to arrive...at least before it's summer!

My son, Tony
has a cool video on his blog site. I was inspired.
So I want to share this one with you...
It's going to be my mantra for the next little while,
when I get feeling discouraged...Remember, never give up!

Moving right along or ain't we got fun!

2008-05-27T14:23:00.000-07:00

Quotes from movers.
Chatting with Ma Bell.
Eating out at friends waaaay too much.
Job hunting...
Living in two places or virtually living in two places at once.
Never being able to find anything.
Sleeping on friend's couches...
Ah, the joys of moving...

It's a wonder that my heart is still pumping what with all the shocks my system has received in the past few days. What keeps me going is love and faith and trust and words penned by this lovely woman.

Dame Julian of Norwich was a mystic and in my opinion a saint. You can go here to find out more about her, but what is important is the words, "All will be well, and all will be well, and all manner of thing shall be well."

Lovely words that Meg Barnhouse has put to music. It's on her album, Mango thoughts in a Meatloaf Town

Meg is also a Unitarian Universalist full-time minister in Spartanburg where my friend Robin attends. Her blog (go here) is a great read.

Well, I keep humming, "All will be well" as I career through a series of phone calls and home visits that are reminiscent of vaudeville slapstick or the keystone cops antics.

One more month and it will be history. I'll be sitting out in the garden with a good book, or munching a picnic supper by the Sound and we'll all have a silly smile on our faces. Until then, pray for me!,

2008-05-07T14:31:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the convocation of many of my classmates at Huron University College, Faculty of Theology. Most of them are going on to lead their own flock and I am so pleased for them and for their future congregants.

Sadly some of them are feeling rejection and sadness and I feel for them. They are equally gifted and deserving of the opportunity to share their gifts and talents.

All of this has gotten me to thinking about G-d and Church and where they meet -- and sometimes where they don't. Convocations are new beginnings, but they are also endings and we must bid farewell and go our separate ways. I will miss sharing my life with these people. I may not see them again in person, but they will always have a place in my heart. This is not to say that we all agreed, theologically or otherwise. But we all treated each other with dignity and respect. Now why can't this be spread out all over the churches? Why can't we manage to do this on a much broader level? I have no answers, just questions that churn and agitate inside me and beg me to question that I question.

This said, I now think that what would be the best thing to do tonight is to have a cup of tea and knit a bit. I have no television to watch (we cancelled the cable and I haven't missed it yet), no deadlines, no papers that must be written right now. So yes, knitting is in order.

I am reading, knitting lessons by Lela Nargi as my "bedtime story" at night and she makes a case that (at least in part) the surge in interest in knitting stems from 9-11. I think that that is a real big stretch, but there is comfort in doing something that is so meditative and of a size that is manageable. And just think when you have finished meditating you have some visible evidence! Now that is cool!

As EZ would say, "Knit on, in confidence!"

[Elizabeth Zimmerman is the godmother of modern day knitting and "unventings" Knitter's lovely tribute can be viewed here. There is also a KAL (knitalong in knitterese) that is featured in this blog...aptly enough called, Zimmermania

2008-05-06T18:41:00.000-07:00

So I'm talking to Jeff this morning, and he tells me that when he got to Bill and Dawn's (Keppel Croft Farms & Gardens) last night that Bill had visitors. Some guy named Roly and his son.

And as we are talking I think, Roly, some guy who would be up in Keppel and I realize that he's talking about Roly Fenwick.

So I pipe up and say, "Hey we know Roly. He's Anne's husband. Anne. My friend from CEG who taught me so much about natural dyeing." And he goes, "Ohhhh..." Really slow, like he is processing this truckload of information. And the light goes on and he says, "Oh!"

So I tell him that Roly just had a show at Michael Gibson's Gallery.

Of course, we didn't get to it because we were ~~madly dashing around like chickens with no heads~~ dividing our time between Owen Sound and London, with Jeff spending much of that driving. And then I decide to check it out and I find Youtube has video of that show kindly put up by City Lights (a really cool used bookstore).

And... here is the video...Check it out just be cautioned that it is ahem, a little ~~jouncy, bouncy, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun! tiggerish that is~~ errrr handheld and l o n g!

Tuesday smooth day...

2008-05-06T09:01:00.000-07:00

Slept in because I was up all night (well late anyway) at Visual Bookshelf creating a library for my facebook page. I know that's naughty, but I am considering these few days my "vacation." After saying good morning to our Dragonfly (who used to be a doorknocker by escaped)still with dew on him, I got right to work -- reading. What a slog eh? Lucky me to HAVE to read. Imagine that this is your work, reading, writing, and knitting. Oh what a lovely life I have!

Then I paid my respects to the hardy tulips who have survived the squirrels. Yeah! for them. And aren't they lovely all lit with the sun...

And then I looked at the new house.

And now it's back to work ... reading, reading, reading. But check out the two books on the left menu. They are incredibly great creative non-fiction. Creative Non-Fiction (as I am discovering) is a very broad genre umbrella - so there's room for everyone to find something they like. Check out these two authors and I'll recommend more as we progress. But I must add just before I go that Lee Gutkind is considered the guru of the genre and it's nice to discover his wonderful humor as he guests on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart featured at Comedy Central. As they say, "Enjoy!"

Well, ahem, sorry about that you can't see that clip anymore. Just believe me Gutkind is a cool guy AND an incredible writer. Makes sense to me to study writing with someone who really knows the craft. You?

2008-05-05T10:34:00.000-07:00

Found this wonderful talk on TED a site that hosts talks from their conferences of "ideas" (as they say on their site: TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design. It started out (in 1984) as a conference bringing together people from those three worlds. Since then its scope has become ever broader.)

Now ... that I just have to share. I've never embedded a video before so I hope this works.

John Maeda has written a book, The Ten Laws of Simplicity that I will soon begin to read. I couldn't find it in the library so I had to order from Amazon DOT com.

There are times when you just can't go "indie" (sigh)

I think I have hogged enough bandwidth today and in the interest of simplicity (and who among us doesn't hunger for that almost daily) I'll sign off for now. Enjoy the video!

2008-05-04T18:25:00.000-07:00

Well, it may be the end of the weekend and a week too late, but I just have to thank Mary (and Teresa and

Stephen) for the beautiful flowers you see in the photo. These were gifted, regifted, and then given to us to make 167 extra fetching for the big Open House. I guess they worked because she will soon be sheltering a young couple who, like us, fell in love at first sight. They were circumspect and rational about their decision, but I am sure they will come to see that it was a wise one. Though there are needed maintenance tasks (new eaves troughs right off the bat for one)all will be well for many long years to come. Congrats!

Yessiree I am smiling. The marquee from Kemble United Church bears the subtitle of Gretta Vosper's new book, "How we live is more important than what we believe" which I received for my birthday and have finally had time to begin reading. It is a must read! You can find it at Chapters of course, but always look first in your local indie bookstore or seller (check out Ginger Press)-- that's where many of our books come from.

It may shake some people up, but here is a gospeller, maybe even a prophet, for well and for certain. The Church must wake up and realize that we are running out of time to get our act together. If we are to proclaim the Kingdom, we have to do the gospel. Now I'll get down from the pulpit and let you read for yourself. But please do.

And now...
May I have a
drumroll, please.

TA DA!
Introducing
the "new house"
The place we will soon call home...

You will notice (if you have incredibly keen eyes or if you double click to "embiggen") that there is a lovely magnolia bush just to the right of the alpine garden to the right front of the house. What you cannot see is the corkscrew hazel on the left. More pictures to come, but for now I must content myself with this little view and one more which I'll share with y'all someday very soon.

SOLD!

2008-05-01T12:42:00.001-07:00

Well, I am gonna' miss you ol' girl. You are a lovely lady with dignity and charm and grace. But it's time to move on and so I must say adieu with just a little tear for all the wonderful memories you have given to us.

Wish me well. On a bus shortly to OW. 4 and 1/2 hour ride with two transfers. Exciting! Glad I don't have to do this too much longer.

Sunshine and spring flowers to all!

What do I do now?

2008-04-30T12:14:00.000-07:00

Well, here we sit -- me and the sad little house -- waiting for someone who said they wanted to love her and live here but still no word. Just yes, or no, that's all we expect. An answer. It's pretty well a no-brainer -- just yes, or no...

Lots is happening though and I am feeling very optimistic. Won't just let anyone snatch this lovely ol' lady from me. Nope, not me. Jeff feels the same. There are some imperfections, but who among us nearing 100 wouldn't say the same. Life is like that it wears a patina on you, which for most of us is a good thing. But you have to know where you can compromise on perfection. And if you ever find it, let me know. I'd like to report a miracle!

On the other hand. I am on ravelry and since I haven't been taking pictures of what I have knit, I thought I'd comment on why I love the peasant or afterthought heel for socks. It looks a little wonky, but fits my foot just fine. AND bonus, when you wear out the heel (as we all know you will) you just rip it back and reknit! How easy is that? Easy peasy as the saying goes and you don't have to part with beloved (if OLD) socks. Which as those of us over 30 know is a very good thing. Why part with stuff that has grown on you,, which you have formed comfortably to you, which fit you like a -- well a sock? Why? indeed!

Here's a pic of the socks.

and a close up of the heel...

And just to cheer everyone up (especially me). Here are two of my favorite clowns...