Dream Big

and the excitement builds

2012-02-05T14:52:00.000-04:00

I look out this window every time I leave my office to head downstairs. I often think that the simplicity of the poppy heads with the lines of the blinds would make an interesting photo, so I finally decided to take one. It didn't turn out as I had pictured it in my mind but it was worth a try.

Like millions of other people around the world, we'll be watching the Super Bowl tonight...here we're just a party of two with some four legged fans :) John watches it for the football...I watch for the commercials (although we don't see all the good ones the Americans get to watch) and for the half time show.

We're also getting ready for a special guest to arrive on Tuesday...someone we only see once or twice (if we're lucky) each year. I am getting so excited, I'm worse than a kid at Christmas time!

Fifty Flowers

2012-02-03T10:20:00.000-04:00

A friend, who shall remain nameless, had a milestone birthday yesterday...the big 5-0. I feel free to tease her, because I've been there, done that!

I created this window for her special day. It has fifty flowers, with this phrase engraved into the window:

A colourful flower for each year

Family and friends that you hold dear

The leaves are engraved with family and friends she has had throughout the years (after consultation with a couple of people closest to her). I can add more leaves and names if we've forgotten someone special.

She has a very large garden, so hopefully she'll be able to find a spot for this window.

flowers for you

2012-02-02T08:13:00.001-04:00

To brighten up your winter day.

Today is my one year follow up visit with the oncologist...one year cancer free! After that, we'll be celebrating a friend's birthday. Two wonderful milestones to cheer about!

take a leap

2012-02-01T10:57:00.000-04:00

The February image from my 2012 Inspirational Calendar. One of my goals for last year was to create enough inspirational sayings to put a calendar together...check! Lots of goals for this year....we'll see how many get accomplished.

before & after

2012-01-31T17:00:00.000-04:00

For all those people who thought I had short hair before....NOW it's short!

taking a self portrait

2012-01-27T14:38:00.000-04:00

my arm is twisted to keep my shoulder back...right hand is holding the remote

Every meeting, our photo club has a couple of "competitions" where anyone who is interested can enter some photos into competition under certain themes. This week, one of the themes was "Portrait". I did have some people lined up to take portraits, but it fell through when the family got sick. So, one day last week when John went into town, I set up an area to take some self portraits. Easier said than done! I set the camera on a tripod, and set it to take photos using my remote...added a sheet as a backdrop, a light to the side, and used a window for some soft lighting on the other side. Then I grabbed my "props"...er, willing volunteers???...to pose with me. One hundred and twenty five photos later (125!!! thank goodness for digital), I had a couple of usable shots. Because I couldn't focus the camera using the remote, there was a lot of slight shifting for each press of the remote, hoping to get something in focus. These are some of the out-takes:

Riley is getting tired of posing

whoops! the camera must have shifted

a new guinea pig...seems I can't be ready even when I'm the one taking the photo!

Myrtle says photo session is over

looking irritated with the whole thing

finally got a good one!

Bald Eagles - part 2

2012-01-23T17:15:00.002-04:00

Bald Eagles - part 1

2012-01-22T18:10:00.000-04:00

Today we headed over to Sheffield Mills to try to capture some Bald Eagles. For the past few years, we have gone during the Eagle Watch but this year I wanted to go before the festival weekends. We had the area practically to ourselves, and I was able to walk out on the fields to get up close and personal with some of the eagles. It was freezing cold...-10C with a wind chill of -20C I'm sure...my fingers were so cold when I got back in the car that I started to cry. Two minutes later I spotted another eagle up around the bend and asked John to pull over so I could get out and take more photos! Enough chatter...I'll let the photos speak for themselves.

around the yard

2012-01-21T11:21:00.000-04:00

I love looking out our front door late in the day to see the light of the setting sun. It snowed yesterday, and it was just beautiful (my photos do not do it justice).

When I went back inside, John asked me if I saw the sunlight on the trees. Well, there was a whole different light on the fields to the back of the house...

...with the setting sun shining on the snowy trees, and the dark blue sky in the background. Lovely.

a bum wrap

2012-01-20T09:23:00.001-04:00

A Bum Rap:

Main Entry:	bum rap
Part of Speech:	noun
Definition:	false accusation
Synonyms:	bad break, bad break, bad charge, bad deal, bad rap, bum deal, bummer, drag*, frame-up, lousy deal, misfortune, raw deal, rotten deal, stroke of bad luck, the shaft, the shaft, unfair assessment

A Bum Wrap:

a rural sport

2012-01-19T14:23:00.000-04:00

mailbox along the LaHave River

Mailbox bashing is a sport around here....likely a sport throughout all rural areas. Our mailbox is often a target, simply because it's isolated...no neighbours nearby, and our driveway is a half mile long so we sure can't see it!

Shortly after we moved here (almost 4 years ago), we found a dead fish in our mailbox. I was a little upset, and wondered if it was some kind of message for us CFA's (come from aways). I don't take it personally anymore. Mailbox tampering seems to be a pastime for some yahoos.

Over the past four years, we've had to replace our mailbox once, repair the new metal box many times, put the supporting post back up a couple of times, and this time it looks like our post will have to be repaired. Our box for the newspaper was taken a couple of months ago, but the newspaper gets delivered to our mailbox anyway. Poor John is out there...the coldest day so far this winter...doing repairs so our mail will be delivered tomorrow.

(or maybe we shouldn't repair it? all we receive are bills anyway!)

a bit about barns

2012-01-17T17:28:00.000-04:00

a barn in Gays River, NS

I have a thing for barns. Not the new ones...I like old and rustic. Totally impractical, but there you go. I love barns with lofts and lean tos. When we are daytripping around Nova Scotia, John often gets to hear me say "look at that barn!".

I don't know where this love comes from. I think maybe it has roots in my childhood, when my parents took me to visit my Uncle Ralph's farm. I was a "city girl", and totally terrified of the cattle. They followed me up the farm lane on one of our visits, which had me totally freaked out, so I started walking faster. The faster I walked, the faster the cows walked.

But that doesn't explain why I love barns.

Uncle Ralph and Aunt Mildred had a big farm kitchen, and something else that I loved...a walk up attic. I was convinced as a child that there was treasure up there. It was probably a good thing I was never allowed to venture up there...I likely would have been quite disappointed!

say cheese

2012-01-15T16:56:00.000-04:00

Practicing with some formal photo sessions for an upcoming "portrait competition" at our photo club. Poor Mulligan's photos were not even good enough to consider. These are also rejects for various reasons, but good enough to share with you. Practice, practice, practice....that's what I'll be doing.

around the house

2012-01-14T08:34:00.000-04:00

a little side trip

2012-01-13T11:59:00.000-04:00

John and I headed over to Kentville on Wednesday for our follow up visits with our surgeon. We had an unexpected wait since the surgeon got called into emergency surgery, and after several hours finally got back on the road for a little bit of a tour.

interesting road sign

We headed to Black Rock Road, so I could dream about a little cottage we had taken a look at a couple of years ago...John's practical side ensured the process got no further than a look...he says he is my anchor, but really he is a good sport at letting me go a little wild with my dreaming sometimes.

We went through Harbourville and I found a restaurant (closed) that I want to get back to in warmer weather. I imagine some awesome fish and chips can be found there.

Harbourville

high and dry

stumped

Down a few back roads, we ended up in Morden.

along the coast in Morden

I've always had a thing about old churches. I did take some photos of the whole church, but like the details better.

church detail - Christ Church, Morden

Our little tour ended in Morden. It was getting late in the day, and we had to head back.

window reflections

a real drag

2012-01-10T10:39:00.000-04:00

John and I took a ride on G's ATV on Saturday...just through our neighbour's forest and around our own property. I spotted a rock in the old barn foundation on our property (barn long gone) and thought it might be nice to have it up around our garden.

first dragging attempt with the ATV

So Sunday afternoon we were out rock moving. The people who originally cleared our land were probably looking on and shaking their heads. The most difficult thing was digging underneath the rock to get the harness around it. Once we managed that, it was a lot easier than I thought.

we used the tractor for the second attempt

The ATV couldn't pull it, so John got out the tractor. Easy peasey! John dragged it up the hill, through the field, and over to the flower garden behind our house.

success! dragging the rock through the field

Now it's waiting for spring and a little garden "enhancement".

the conquering hero

Margot's Terns

2012-01-07T11:33:00.000-04:00

Margot's Terns

This was the 3rd commissioned piece I created for Christmas. A husband ordered it to give to his wife, and was determined to have 2 "common terns" on the window.

I decided not to grout the window, but told the customer I would add it if they wanted

I fretted big time over creating this...after all, I have only done flowers and abstracts up until now. I pulled a couple of photos from the internet as my inspiration and came up with this design.


the clear glass is iridescent and looks like shimmering water in certain light

I was extremely happy with the creation. Glass is the only medium I create with that I am generally happy with my results. When I paint, or take photos, I can usually find something I'd like to improve on!

the crest on their heads looks black when the light is not shining through the window

I owe a big thank you to this customer because it really stretched my abilities and increased my confidence level. A good lesson for me...to not be afraid to try something new!

Daisies For Ginette

2012-01-06T10:28:00.000-04:00

Daisies For Ginette

"Daisies For Ginette" was created for Vickie to give to her daughter at Christmas...nice and summery! Unlike today, which is very cold.

Yesterday was the first day in several weeks that I had a chance to work on my stained glass window art...such a relief! The desire to create starts to get bottled up inside me, until I become a little driven and just have to get into the studio.

The studio was so cold yesterday that I did the preliminary work on my new project on the kitchen island. It felt great to start putting together something new.

Speaking of projects, I am working at putting together the final details for my annual Art Book Project...this year I'll return to my Paws For Charity project. Details in the coming days.

rules

2012-01-04T11:20:00.000-04:00

introductions being made

All rules are meant to be broken...even self-imposed rules. When we moved to Nova Scotia, we had four animals (3 dogs, 1 cat). Over the four years we have been here, we lost 2 to old age and one with an unfortunate incident with a hunter. Last year at this time, we had only one dog and life was very peaceful. Then came our Wheaten Terrier pup Riley, who helped me through the after affects of radiation treatments and kept me focused on a brighter future. My rule: we won't have more than 2 animals in the house ever again.

Ha, joke is on me. Our 17 year old cat Phantom died almost two years ago. I decided it was time for another cat in the household. And...just ask John...once I decide something, it becomes a mission.

A few visits were made to our local animal shelter (S.H.A.I.D.) in December. A little waffling from me....

rule: cats must sit on people with allergies

...and this little girl came home with us on December 27th.

settling in nicely

Let me introduce you to the newest member of our funny farm....Myrtle.

2012

2012-01-03T11:06:00.000-04:00

toasting the New Year with G, K, and Miss M

Happy New Year!

I don't make resolutions, but I do like to sit down and think about things I want to accomplish during the coming year.

Riley joins us for a photo

I'm anxious to start working with my glass windows again, and have 3 projects on the go (well, in my mind!). That will start tomorrow.

Mulligan slept through it all

Today is a day for physio, and my hope is that I'll graduate from physio appointments soon!! I have been dedicated in my daily exercises, and twice a week physio appointments...but the progress is slow.

Here's to a new year of family love, improved health, and new creative endeavors!

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T10:38:00.000-04:00

We always spend a quiet evening at home...usually with family...have a lovely, long meal...usually fondue...and reflect on the past year. We have a file of our memories going back almost 20 years. Each person who brings in the New Year with us tells us their memories from the year...some good, some not so good...but things we want to remember.

Every New Year's Day, we put the file away. It doesn't come out until the next New Year's Eve, when we pick some years to review before we start recording our memories from the past year.

This year has had it's challenges...radiation treatments (me), shoulder surgery (me), 3 major knee surgeries (John) and months and months of physio (both of us)...but we both consider ourselves very lucky...and loved. Here's to a New Year!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T07:00:00.002-04:00

However you celebrate the season....wishing you and your loved ones a safe and happy holiday.

Happy Birthday John

2011-12-23T07:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday John!

Another year flew by...I'm so thankful I get to spend them with you.

Happy b-day baba by Miss M

And what does a lucky birthday boy get to do?

Play with his toy, of course!

Looks like we'll have a white Christmas after all.

Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-22T10:44:00.000-04:00

I made a little gift for myself a few weeks ago. Right after my shoulder surgery, I was longing to work on glass but my shoulder was too weak. So I painstakingly glued glass baubles on a window (using only one arm) to make a Christmas tree.

After a few additional weeks, my arm was strong enough to do some cutting so I added the background in reds, greens, and clear glass....just a small window to bring some cheer into the house on these dreary rainy days. Looks like this year won't be a white Christmas!

some of the glass looks like it has been etched with frost

light show

2011-12-20T16:13:00.000-04:00

We kept our Christmas decorations very simple this year since we only have 3 good legs and 3 good arms in our household these days. One of the decorations is a very small tree outside lit with red lights. I had fun the other night with my camera in the dark...moving my camera in various ways as I pressed the shutter. Voila...modern art with Christmas lights!

the blue streak is a reflection of the blue light of our coffee maker on the window

foxy

2011-12-18T17:17:00.000-04:00

G, DIL, and Miss M joined us for the weekend to celebrate John's upcoming birthday. This morning, DIL was an awesome nature spotter. It seemed every time she looked out our windows, she saw something special. First...the fox.

searching for a snack

I have often seen tracks on my afternoon walks, and thought they belonged to a fox (too small for a coyote). We watched while he buried his head in the grass, and leaped and jumped after prey.

look at the size of his tail!

I took some of these photos from inside the house, then threw on my jacket and ran outside with the tripod. I kept a safe distance (he wouldn't let me get close anyway)...these photos are cropped a huge amount.

DIL's second siting was a snowy owl....very rare for these parts. Unfortunately, he was further away and by the time I got outside and close enough, he was gone. Lucky, lucky me...that's all I could think...how lucky are we to live here?

Pa Rum Pa Pum Pum

2011-12-18T11:56:00.000-04:00

I read about this teenager in today's paper...had to take a look...and thought I'd share it with you. He's 16, and lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada...fun!

amaryllis

2011-12-15T17:17:00.000-04:00

I think of my parents every time I see an amaryllis. I remember having them in my childhood home every Christmas. Both my parents passed away many years ago, but I try to plant an amaryllis every year to remind me of them at Christmas time. This year I was really excited to find an "Orange Sovereign"...I love orange and don't remember ever seeing an orange amaryllis before. I still haven't...this one is definitely looks red to me!

just for fun

2011-12-14T11:53:00.000-04:00

Just for fun...wouldn't it be great if we could all get along like this dog, cat & rat?

a walk on Hirtles Beach

2011-12-08T11:28:00.000-04:00

near Lunenburg, on the Lighthouse Route

On Monday, while Riley was at the spa, Mulligan and I went for a drive. A quick stop was made to capture the above photo, then we headed to Kingsburg and went to Hirtles Beach. Ah, JOY!


Mulligan

Because of the surgeries in our household, it has been a couple of months since I walked a beach. I can't explain how utterly happy I was. The only thing that would have made it better would be to have John and Riley there too.

But, John still has some healing to do before beach walking will be possible, and let's just say it wouldn't have been nearly as peaceful a walk if Riley was there!

I tried to film it so you could enjoy it too. This was my first attempt at using the video feature on my new little point and shoot camera. You'll have to suffer through a few seconds of wind noise, and then you'll be able to hear the waves.

Before & After

2011-12-05T17:15:00.000-04:00

Riley's first hair cut. She doesn't look like a puppy anymore ! :(

calm

2011-12-04T17:15:00.000-04:00

Some photos from my early morning jaunt with the dogs.

Calm.

Abstract In Yellows

2011-12-02T11:01:00.000-04:00

Abstract In Yellows

I received a couple of commission orders for my "window art" in October, and I madly worked to try to get them completed before my shoulder surgery. I promised not to post photos of one of the windows until after Christmas, but I am free to post this photo because the woman who ordered it was so excited that she showed a photo of it to the person who's going to receive it at Christmas!

She wanted an abstract design in yellows, and a design that would look okay no matter which direction it was hung in. This window will be going in the garden...likely some kind of structure...and it hasn't been decided whether to hang it horizontally or vertically. I wanted to make an organic design, and hope that they hang it vertically...pictured here is how I would hang it.

I have torn feelings about commissioned work. On the one hand, I love getting a commissioned order. It makes me feel honoured that someone likes my windows enough that they'll give it as a gift (either to themselves or to someone they love). On the other hand, I feel a lot of self imposed pressure when I'm putting together a specific project. What if they don't like it? What if it's not their vision? I put myself through a lot of anguish that doesn't happen when I just create my own design and then send it off to a store to try to sell. Just like everything in life, it's best to have a good balance!

Coming in the next few weeks: my most challenging commission yet!

changing perspective

2011-12-01T15:41:00.000-04:00

I was given this orchid in August by DIL, and have been trying now and then to get a good photo of it. The other day, the sun was streaming through the kitchen window and threw a spotlight on the orchid. I grabbed my camera and took a couple of photos.

I used a shallow depth of field to put the background out of focus, but decided that the background didn't do any favours to the orchid. So I moved the orchid to our kitchen island and tried a couple more photos.

Then I decided that I didn't like the mix of light and shadows in the background so I left the orchid where it was, but I bent down slightly and tilted the camera so that the whole background was in shadow.

I was quite happy with the final result. Sometimes a little change in perspective is all we need!

good morning

2011-11-30T12:08:00.000-04:00

The sunrise this morning looked promising, so I loaded the dogs in the car and zipped down the road with my camera....actually, 2 cameras...my SLR and a new pocket point and shoot that we "bought" with air miles points.

I wanted the point and shoot so that I'd always have a camera with me. I'll have to play with it some more, but my favourite photo this morning came from my SLR.

birch trees at dusk

2011-11-28T10:06:00.000-04:00

Birch Trees At Dusk ink & watercolour

A little 5 x 7 inch painting I did yesterday...a continuous line drawing of birch trees in ink (continuous line drawing means exactly that...you don't lift your pen until you're done)....with watercolour paint in the background.

I'm pretty happy with it as a first attempt.

mercy

2011-11-26T11:12:00.000-04:00

I heard this on CBC Radio this morning....it's now a new favourite.

today is a good day because

2011-11-25T16:18:00.000-04:00

I took this image of a day lily in early morning (a photograph I took last summer) and added the words "Today is a good day because"....

...then I printed the image and framed it....

...and now I can write the reason why it's a good day on the glass using an erasable pen...

...and I can change the reason easily every day. Because there's always something to be thankful for.

digging out

2011-11-24T17:13:00.000-04:00

the frozen berries from the burning bush...at sundown

Looks like we'll get our man home tomorrow! (fingers crossed) Here's hoping we lose some of the snow so the VON can get up the driveway...we need the nurses up here to change the dressing on John's leg. I can do many things, but dealing with that sort of thing is not my cup of tea.

Did I mention that our dog Riley was to the vet on Saturday for an emergency visit? She had a "hot spot" which required the vet to put her under and clean out. She'll be on antibiotics for 10 days, and is wearing a cone on her head. So....that's a dog with a cone, a man with one working leg, and a woman with one working arm. We make quite a household! They say things come in threes....let's hope that's true.

first snow storm musings

2011-11-23T11:49:00.000-04:00

Today is a stormy day...snow fall warnings in effect...which means I am stuck at home while John is one and a half hours away in the hospital.

On Monday, he had an emergency surgery on his knee. In fact, the 3rd surgery on the same knee in the past 8 months. He had a knee replacement on April 1st...followed by emergency surgery one week later to deal with an infection. We did have a couple of months of good healing, and he was able to make the one mile walk with the dogs and me in the morning to get the paper. But the knee never felt "right". Unfortunately, no one would listen until about a week ago. Then everything happened in a whirlwind....an xray showed that his "new" knee had moved and was coming apart. The surgeon said he had never seen this happen in his 25 years of experience. So, John was admitted to the hospital on Monday and the two hour surgery to put in yet another new knee was done late Monday afternoon. All is going well so far, and we're hoping to get him home on Friday. (well, John would like to come home tomorrow, but I don't think that's going to happen).

Let's hope the third time is the charm, and we can be walking on beaches again in 2012!

burn baby burn

2011-11-14T16:13:00.000-04:00

not many leaves left on our burning bush

frosty

2011-11-13T11:25:00.000-04:00

I haven't been able to walk the dogs to get the paper in the morning since my shoulder surgery. Holding two dog leashes of two dogs who constantly circle is beyond my one armed ability. So....every morning we jump in the car to go the 1/2 mile drive to pick up the paper. The girls have adapted wonderfully, but I am longing for the day I'll be able to walk them both again.

frost on the car's windshield

There was some lovely frost on the windshield this morning, that got me heading back into the house for my camera. The frost is a bit out of focus, a result of being too close and shooting something at an angle...but I like the photos anyway. These photos have been touched up a bit....I added higher contrast and added a touch of blue. Sometimes it's fun to play a bit with the photo software.

early morning

2011-11-10T15:57:00.000-04:00

A very pale sky this morning, but I had to grab my camera for a one handed photo....loved our small apple tree against the pale sky.

excitement in purgatory

2011-11-08T14:29:00.000-04:00

Our screened in porch is called "Purgatory" (and even has the sign to prove it). It's a good story that you are bound to hear if you ever come to visit us. We did have an unexpected visitor today, but she wasn't interested in hearing the story.

maybe she flew in after seeing the snack bar sign

This female ruffed grouse flew through one of the screen doors and perched in the rafters...gave me quite a fright when I walked out the door to go feed our guineas! We were in a rush this morning (today was the day I got my stitches out), but we had enough time to prop open both doors to the porch, in hopes that she would be able to make it out on her own.

Four hours later (after the trip across to Kentville to see my surgeon, and a side trip on the way home to inspect a 115 year old schoolhouse that's for sale...alas, a story for another time)...we arrived home and the grouse was still in Purgatory (by this time, she would probably think it was an apt name for the porch). However, she was startled by John's appearance, and shot out of the door in a loud burst of flight.

We'll have to repair one of the screen doors, but it's nice to have a happy ending!

floral bouquet

2011-11-06T10:42:00.000-04:00

I've been sorting through my flower photos for an upcoming Floral Competition at my photo club. It's always tough for me to settle on the photos I want to enter into competition. We have to enter two digital photos and two prints for a shot at the trophy for this category. I would like to not bother entering, but my competitive side won't allow that. These are some photos that didn"t make the cut.

climbing roses in Bear River

pot of petunias from a friend

farmer's market bouquet

orchid from DIL

after the rain

find a place

2011-10-31T16:27:00.000-03:00

from my 2012 inspirational calendar...available here

I had my first physio appointment today...one week after my surgery. It went very well, with the big exception that I was told that "protocol" had changed for this type of physio, and that I would have to have my arm in a sling for 12 (yes, twelve!!) weeks.

Luckily, I finished one of my window commissions for Christmas early, another was completely cut and glued before my surgery (I think I'll be able to do the grouting one handed by the end of November), and a third commission I just received today is happy to wait.

In the meantime, I'll just keep visiting those places in my mind and hope for some peace (and patience!!)

hop to it

2011-10-27T11:13:00.000-03:00

I took this grasshopper photo in the summer...John found this guy on one of our swing cushions, and I photographed him in the low light just before sundown using my macro lens. I really like the angles made by the cushion, his legs, and his antennae.

I, on the other hand, won't be hopping to much any time soon. I had surgery on my shoulder on Monday to fix a torn rotator cuff. I damaged it in a silly home accident in late January, so I'm glad to finally have the operation. But this is one of those "be careful what you wish for" things...the last few days have been difficult...I'm not good with pain. But....I am feeling more human today, so things are looking up! I am not allowed to lift or carry anything for 6 weeks, and will be one handed typing for a while! No photography...no glass work...but at least now I feel up to reading so that will keep me occupied.

bugged

2011-10-26T09:46:00.001-03:00

I took a lot of bug photos this summer. I find it challenging. It requires a lot of patience (something I'm not terribly good at) and some luck. I took these photos on Saturday...some of my best yet. I'm really happy with them. I used my macro lens and cropped very slightly. And yes, I laid on the ground to take these! This guy was on our walkway.

Fall Colour

2011-10-23T08:43:00.000-03:00

Capturing fall colour is more difficult than it seems. We are lucky in our part of the world...the fall colours are truly amazing. But it is hard to capture the full scope on camera.

The key for me is to move in closer....

...and closer....

...and closer still.

Throw in some sunshine late in the day, and I'm happy with the results!

Dublin Shore

2011-10-20T11:05:00.001-03:00

A few photos from Tueday's mini tour...these were taken at Dublin Shore...a working government wharf.

mini tour

2011-10-19T10:43:00.000-03:00

My nephew from Vancouver, BC visited us for a couple of hours yesterday. He was in Halifax for a few days of work, and rented a car to come to see us (well, perhaps the beaches were the real attraction!) It was great to see him. He is 9 years younger than me...the oldest son of a brother who passed away from brain cancer when I was 16. My brother would be so proud of the man he has become.

We did some touring, and took the dogs for a walk on Rissers Beach. John's leg is in poor health these days...a set back after April's knee surgery. He enjoyed the beach from a rock, and managed to meet someone while we were walking...a man who summers in Crescent Beach, and winters in Victoria, BC. John can meet people wherever we go!

Flower Power

2011-10-15T14:17:00.000-03:00

I finished this window a couple of weeks ago, and the glue is still drying. The background is a pale blue colour, which is still showing a fair bit of glue...it will dry clear. The flowers are bright red, orange, and a combination red/orange glass. Bright and cheerful. I'm still debating whether or not to add grout.

letting go

2011-10-14T11:17:00.000-03:00

We just returned from a trip to Ontario....my first trip back since moving to Nova Scotia 3 1/2 years ago. It's a 16 hour drive, but we divided it up over two days. The dogs were fantastic travellers. Going back to Ontario made me realize just how much a country person I've become. I'm used to wide open spaces, and quiet...lots of quiet. You don't get that in big city living. As they say...a great place to visit, but I wouldn't want to live there.

One of the best things was being there to see our grandson learn to ride his bike without training wheels. I was the first to try, but I wouldn't let go of his seat so John took over. We went to the park three days in a row and our grandson's progress was amazing. He rode on his own on the first day, but by the third day he was starting on his own and zipping around and around the park...turning corners and riding by other people. The look on his face was pure joy and pride. I'm so happy we helped him discover his own abilities. A good lesson in believing in yourself (for him) and letting go (for us).

one

2011-10-10T10:10:00.001-03:00

Riley is one year old today. (or is that 7?) Although she joined our family only 7 months ago, I can't imagine us without her.

Happy Birthday Riley Rooney Roo. (official name Rose Thistle Riley)

inspired

2011-10-06T16:55:00.004-03:00

A special note to Pat Mac: Thanks so much for ordering a calendar...glad to hear it arrived safely and you like it. I can't respond to your comments because there's no email attached, and I have no idea why...but blogger won't let me leave a comment on your blog. (I've tried many times before as well...I have this problem with many blogs)
**********************************************

This is one of the prints from my calendar. Someone told me they thought it was depressing, but I don't see it that way.

I received an order for this print from my etsy shop a month or so ago. She also sent me an email explaining why she purchased it. It was very thoughtful of her to do that...it's so nice to hear why people think your artwork is inspirational. Here's what she said:

"It's a gift for my father.

My family bought him a row boat for his 60th last year but he only gets to play in the summer months. It's his most favourite thing in the whole world (next to us of course).

Last September he was diagnosed with cancer and two months later, slipped on the ice and tore his shoulder. The message came to him loud and clear. He picked up his oars and took control of his life- started green juicing, meditating, went all veg, started a supplement program and now, nearly a year later all is in remission- and he's in the process of retiring from advertising- so he can spend more time up at the cottage rowing his boat. He had surgery on his shoulder in April, has been doing his physio work and was able to be back in his boat rowing again this summer.

The message, on your print... well it seemed this was meant for him :)"

So, whatever inspires you, I hope you can picture it in your mind and can visit there whenever you need inspiration. Something that's easier said than done.

the lady and the clown

2011-10-04T10:13:00.001-03:00

Not everything goes to plan when I'm taking photographs. A couple of weeks ago, I tried an impromptu portrait session with our two dogs. I had my new lens (50 mm) and my focus was off. However, my biggest problem was the models. One was a true lady...but one was a clown. I'll leave it to you to decide who the clown was.

Mulligan gives Riley a look of disdain

thank you, thank you very much

2011-10-03T11:44:00.000-03:00

I've been awarded the "One Lovely Blog Award" by Grant at Sideways Glance.

The Rules:
1. Thank the person who shared the award with you by linking back to them in your post.
2. Pass this award to at least 15 recently discovered blogs and let them know that you included them in your blog post.
3. List 7 things about yourself.

One
I was nominated by Sideways Glance and I am very thankful and appreciative of being included. Thank you very much Grant!

Two
I am going to cheat here. I'm supposed to link to 15 recently discovered blogs. Well, I stopped cruising around the blog world several months ago. I felt I was wasting too much time in front of the computer. Don't get me wrong, I have learned a lot of things by blog visiting, and sometimes I'm quite inspired by other blogs. I've also made some great connections through my blog. I just got to feeling that I was too busy reading about other people's lives so I made a conscious decision to blog out. At the same time, I stopped updating my own blog as often.

Three
Here are 7 random things about myself:

1. I spent a career in power suits and high heels. I left that career 13 years ago and now spend most of my time in "farm clothes" and rubber boots. My fellow bankers would never recognize me!

2. I was an Ontario girl for my whole life (with a one year exception when I lived in Alberta). That changed 3 1/2 years ago when we moved to Nova Scotia. The biggest challenge was not in changing provinces, but in moving to "the country".

3. I have washed the bum of a baby guinea hen. I once spent a day walking around with a baby bird wrapped in a towel and tucked under my shirt to try to keep it warm and alive (I failed). I bet not too many people can say that.

4. My worst fear used to be getting cancer. My brother, mom, and sister all died from cancer. I faced that fear last year when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. So now when something challenges me, and I'm nervous, I think to myself....I've already faced my worst fear, so I can handle this challenge with no problems at all!

5. I love taking photographs, but feel most creative when I work with stained glass creating my "window art".

6. Although sometimes I wonder why I have pets, I can't imagine my home without them. And maybe someday I'll be able to add a cat back into my life :)

7. (the best for last) My best friend is my husband and life partner. Everything is better when it's shared with him.

colour for a rainy day

2011-10-01T17:43:00.000-03:00

early morning

2011-09-28T14:03:00.000-03:00

It was foggy this morning...and our first frost was on the ground. Half an hour after these photos, it was a bright blue sky with not a cloud. The leaves are starting to turn, and it's getting a little cool to have morning coffee in Purgatory.

a little tour

2011-09-27T15:42:00.000-03:00

We were over in Kentville yesterday for an appointment, and then did a little tour. First, to Port Williams for lunch and a quick visit to an antique store in a four storey barn. I was more enthralled with the barn than the antiques...there was so much stuff in there it would take many, many visits to see everything. But I do love a good barn, and this one is amazing.

After that, we swung by Halls Harbour. Usually we seem to tour through there in the off season, so it was nice to see everything bustling. The scent of fish and chips in the air had me wishing we waiting to have lunch on the pier. Next time!

these dahlias were in a vase attached to a bench on the pier

tide is low...notice where the boats are in relation to the pier

some bright flowers in the foreground...a nice foil for the rusty ship

high and dry...the boats rest on the harbour floor when the tide is out

Inspirational Calendars

2011-09-25T17:24:00.001-03:00

Last year, I made a little list of things I wanted to accomplish this year. One of my goals was to create an inspirational calendar for 2012 and I've finally finished. You can view the whole calendar by clicking on the left and right arrow keys below the embedded image.

Or, you can click on this link, and you'll be taken to the calendar at lulu.com where you can preview the calendar with much larger images.

Let me know what you think!

Flowers for you

2011-09-17T08:31:00.000-03:00

A few flower photos to brighten the day. (although it doesn't need brightening around here...it's a glorious sunny day!)

The Tourist Trap

2011-09-16T09:18:00.001-03:00

A couple of weeks ago, John and I made the trip to The Tourist Trap in Musquodoboit Harbour to drop off some more windows. I thought you might like a little tour of The Tourist Trap. Meet the owner...Holly. Should you ever head down that way, you can stop over for a lovely meal and meander through the shop (perhaps purchase a stained glass window?). And...there are several options if you'd like to stay over. You can check out the rooms available on the website: touristtrap.ca

Holly - owner and manager and all around great person

baaaa

2011-09-15T10:15:00.001-03:00

continuing with my fascination of sheep....

the rising moon

2011-09-14T11:56:00.000-03:00

The moon was just amazing a couple nights ago, as it rose into the sky. We were sitting outside on the deck, and John went inside to get my camera. I did not feel like taking photos, but am glad he kept after me until I did. Thank you John!

Dancing In The Moonlight

2011-09-12T06:08:00.002-03:00

As always, I couldn't wait for the glue to dry to show you my latest window creation. I call this one "Dancing in the Moonlight". Yellows, purples, and blues with a moon, stars, and 4 dragonflies...and a white frame (sized 34 1/2 inches wide by 27 inches high). I'm loving the way it turned out.

Upper Window Detail - moon and stars

upper window detail

lower window detail - dragonflies

Beach Meadows Beach

2011-09-11T16:59:00.002-03:00

Some more photos from yesterday's drive....these were taken during a fantastic long walk at Beach Meadowns Beach.

welcome to Beach Meadows Beach

Sand pipers or plovers?

Riley with her shadow and reflection

John and the girls

Patterns in the sand

Big Skies

2011-09-10T17:59:00.002-03:00

We went out looking for big waves...courtesy of a tropical storm passing by far off shore...

Western Head

...but we were unsuccessful. Instead, it was all about the sky today....

...I have been playing with my UV filter (edited: whoops...correct that to read polarizing filter) and finally have photos of skies and beaches that don't looked washed out.

Photos of Beach Meadows coming tomorrow.

playing with a new toy

2011-09-05T16:38:00.000-03:00

I treated myself to a new lens, and have been playing with it taking random photos.

Riley

socks on the line

I headed out early this morning to try the new lens further afield.

the lake on our road

Down to the coast...

Blue Rocks

...where the sun disappeared...

Blue Rocks

...and back inland again...

...where the sun was shining. Cows seem to be a new favourite photo op for me.

Good night

2011-09-02T20:44:00.000-03:00

We just returned from a lovely overnight visit with G and DIL and Miss M. The first thing I did when we arrived home was take photos of the setting sun (while John slogged inside with the dogs and suitcases!). Good night!

Still Standing

2011-09-01T08:20:00.003-03:00

We were lucky, and Irene decided to give us a pass. However we did have some strong winds and lots of rain. Our casualties: a couple of my giant sunflowers in the veggie garden and a big, old maple down the original homestead lane. These sunflowers are still standing. They always say "happy" to me.

Happy September!

3 Sheets to the Wind

2011-08-30T10:58:00.000-03:00

I started this window months ago, but kept putting it aside to work on other window projects. I finally finished it on Saturday, and the glue is in the drying stage...the sky will dry and will be a mixture of clear blue as well as clear glass with white swirls. John named this one "3 Sheets to the Wind" in reference to the 3 sheets on the clothesline. (which don't show up well in the full photos, but there is a detailed photo below)

I'm not going to add grout to this one. It measures 29 inches wide by 24 inches high....larger than the windows I've been doing recently. I love the way it turned out...it looks glorious when the sun is shining through it!

doesn't it throw a nice shadow?

detail of house and clothesline

detail of sailboat

more early morning photos

2011-08-25T16:25:00.001-03:00

A few more photos from yesterday's early morning excursion. I headed up towards New Germany, and stopped at a couple of farms. Back through the bridge on Veinot Road, but I was too late...the sun was too high to get a good photo of the fog over the river.

adventures

2011-08-24T15:52:00.000-03:00

Yesterday was an unexpectedly awesome day. First, we were visited by two lovely ladies who dropped off some windows for me that one of them had found on the side of the road while out for a drive with her husband. (thanks Janet...these will keep me busy for a while!)

Then we received a phone call asking if we wanted to go for a sail in the afternoon. We had an absolutely gorgeous sail down the LaHave River to the ocean and back....a six hour excursion (not including the driving time). I purposely didn't take my camera with me (I tend to get a little unsociable when I'm concentrating on taking photos)...but I regretted it many times during the afternoon!

This morning I was up early trying to rescue one of our little guineas who escaped the coop last night (my fault entirely...I left the door open while I was putting food in the other end). Thankfully, she didn't get eaten during the night. After several unsuccessful attempts, she is back with her sister (yes...we finally have 2 females...yay!!)

And...as I promised myself...I headed out for another early morning photo excursion. Here are some of the photos I took at the lake on our road.

The Dance

2011-08-19T09:01:00.000-03:00

I finally added the grout to this window, and am very happy with how it has turned out. I love the blues and greens...and the clear glass with embossed flowers...and who doesn't love dragonflies?

I call it "The Dance".

happy

2011-08-12T11:28:00.000-03:00

I'm happy because our son Cody is here visiting from Toronto.

Riley is happy because she has been given some freedom and is running through our fields off leash.

Restez Calme

2011-08-05T16:10:00.003-03:00

I was up just after the crack of dawn this morning with the dogs, and decided to take advantage of the glimmer of sunlight....it has been raining for days here. I loaded my camera and dogs into the car and planned to take photos of the sunrise over a nearby lake. That didn't work out...the sun was in the wrong direction. But we carried on down the road and this is what we found:

I don't usually get up and going early in the morning. The usual routine is get up, take dogs out, feed dogs, walk dogs one mile to get the paper, read paper and drink coffee....

...but I could be convinced to change my habits. I enjoyed the early morning jaunt with my camera.

nightime adventures

2011-08-04T16:05:00.000-03:00

Sometimes the most amazing adventures happen right at home. On Tuesday night, I was out with the dogs for their before bedtime excursion and I heard the oddest sound. The dogs were listening to it too, but didn't seem bothered by it. I put the dogs inside and went back out and tracked down the source of the sound. It was an owl. (and, no, he wasn't hooting...it was a strange whining sound that he repeated over and over). I ran back inside to tell John and grabbed my camera. The combination of a very dark night and no tripod resulted in some blurry photos, but you can vaguely see his shape in the tree.

We feared for our four grown guineas, who roost in the trees at night. But the next morning, they were all still marching around so the owl didn't dine on guinea. We probably scared him off by shining the flashlight at him for so long!

I hear many owls at night "who who"ing, but this is our first sighting...so exciting!

Just be

2011-08-03T09:03:00.003-03:00

Friday's trip: Part 3

2011-08-02T12:29:00.000-03:00

Our second photo stop on last Friday's trip was the Sainte-Marie Catholic Church in Church Point. Here are the details from the information board outside the church:

You are standing in front of the largest wooden church in North America. Leo Melanson, a local Acadian, masterminded its consturction from blueprints of a stone church in France - yet Leo could not read or write! This amazing structure was built between 1903 and 1905 with the help of 1500 volunteers.

If you peek inside, you'll see very tall columns supporting an arched ceiling. In reality, these 70-foot columns are entire Norwegian Red Spruce tree trunks covered in plaster.

The ceiling features religious symbols painted by Louis St. Hilaire. Louis had a great fear of heights. So, along with his palette and paints, the artist brought a large bottle of wine to calm his nerves.

You'll notice 41 exquisite stained glass windows, many depicting the life of the Virgin Mary, to whom the church is dedicated. THey were shipped from France in crates of molasses for protection!

There was a completely awe inspiring stone church a litte further up the road...but I decided to save that for another day. I think the drugs I took before the MRI were catching up with me :)

signs of the times

2011-08-01T10:05:00.001-03:00

When we last visited Cape St. Mary's, I spotted a house that looked abandonned and was interested in taking a closer look. When we visited on Friday, I took the opportunity.

I love old houses, and ramshackle buildings. There's so much character.

Yet, they make me feel sad as well. Sad that they sit neglected. Their walls must hold so many stories that have been long forgotten. If I was wealthy, I'd restore as many old homes as I could...back to their former glory. There are just so many homes and buildings in Nova Scotia that are beyond repair.

Someone has found a use for this home, but not what I would have chosen for it :)

Cape St. Mary's

2011-07-31T13:36:00.000-03:00

On Friday we headed down to Yarmouth...a 2 1/2 hour drive...so that I could have an MRI done on my shoulder...we have been waiting 3 months for this MRI.

Afterwards, we drove back home along the north shore...also known as the French Coast. Our first photo stop was Cape St. Mary's.

The last time we were there it was December...a little colder...but just as dreary and foggy.

My brain was just as foggy as the weather....thanks to the drugs I took prior to the MRI!

I'll post a few more photos from Cape St. Mary's tomorrow.

catching a hummer

2011-07-30T11:22:00.000-03:00

Earlier this year, I held a hummingbird in my hand after rescuing her from our workshop. That was easier for me to do than capturing a good photograph....those little guys move too fast for me.

Last evening was an impromptu session after running into the house to grab my camera to take a photo of a fox who was strolling up one of our field paths.

The fox moved on without getting his photo taken (and without grabbing one of our guineas....phew!) but I am easily distracted so settled on trying to capture a hummingbird photo instead.

The session strengthened my resolve to get better photos today. But alas, it's raining today so I'll have to be patient. Something tells me that patience will be key to getting an excellent hummer photo.

impromptu picnic

2011-07-26T15:29:00.000-03:00

Yesterday was a beautiful day. We are a couple of the most fortunate people around, because usually we have no plans or obligations. Yesterday that meant an impromptu picnic at Western Head.

Picnic with the dogs at Western Head

I packed a quick picnic in the cooler, and we took the dogs (of course!). We drove the quick route down the 103 to Liverpool.

view down the other way

Our picnic included shrimp and cocktail sauce for dipping, bbq'd salmon leftovers spread on crackers, olives, pickled eggs, and drinks...diet coke for John, crystal light for me...if the picnic was closer to home it would have been wine :)

I always love the sound of the waves

We meandered down the back roads towards home and stopped in a couple locations for me to take photographs.

loved the colour of the ropes - West Berlin Wharf

Sometimes the best days are unplanned.

Fishing sheds at the West Berlin Wharf

East Berlin - see the fly by? - caught a bird in the photo and didn't realize it...looks like a dust speck!

Birds at East Berlin

in the garden

2011-07-26T10:10:00.000-03:00

The flower garden is flourishing. I love the colour of this astilbe.

Window Display

2011-07-25T11:37:00.000-03:00

The Growing Green Festival was held in Bridgewater on Saturday. Friday evening was spent at the library hanging windows. Well...John hung windows...and I stood around and watched.

Then someone came along and suggested that one of the windows might be seen better in another location. John...being the wise man that he is...said nothing...climbed back up on the desk to remove the recently hung window...and rehung it in a new location.

The Festival is over, but the windows will be hanging in the library for 5 weeks.

Bear River and windows

2011-07-21T16:02:00.002-03:00

This photo was taken in Bear River...we took a little trip there last Sunday (after stopping in Bridgetown to see our granddaughter compete in a swim meet). As you might have guessed from my stained glass "window art"....I love old windows!

These windows are on a very tiny little building on main street. The village of Bear River has a population of 800 people, and is nestled in a ravine. Many of the buildings are on stilts, because Bear River rises and falls with the tides....25 feet....twice a day. It has a very artsy community. If I didn't like the South Shore so much, I might be tempted to move there. You can see a charming video about Bear River by clicking on this link.

Tomorrow afternoon John and I will be heading to the Bridgewater Library to help hang 3 of my windows for the Growing Green Festival. There was an article about the festival in the local paper this week. You can read about it at this link.

flowers at sunset

2011-07-16T09:12:00.001-03:00

Take a spectacular sunset....

...and add a garden full of flowers...

...and I was out there with my camera...

....until the sun went down.

for dragonfly lovers

2011-07-14T11:15:00.002-03:00

Seems I am on a dragonfly kick these days. Did you know that dragonflies only live 24 hours? (I didn't). You can't afford to have a bad day if you're a dragonfly. Update: seems I was passed along incorrect info. Dragonfiles actually live much longer...you can read about their life cycle by clicking this link.
Here is my latest work in progress...still lots of drying to do so the glue clears up. Once it has a chance to dry, I'll add some grout. Stay tuned.

a work in progress

All blues and greens, with a little bit of clear glass thrown in (embossed with flowers).

Summerville Beach

2011-07-13T12:33:00.001-03:00

As I mentioned yesterday, we visited Summerville Centre on Sunday afternoon, and had a lovely meal at The Quarterdeck Grill. You just can't ask for a better location. Here are the views from the restaurant. We were literally right over the ocean. View to the left: (looking eastward)

a fine view to dine by

And here is the view directly underneath us...the tide was coming in while we ate, and these rocks were covered by ocean by the time we finished lunch:

we ate just above the ocean floor

And here is the view to the right, looking westward....Summerville Beach is a mile long beach of soft white sand:

Summerville Beach...a mile of white sand

Looking for somewhere to stay when you visit Nova Scotia? Consider these villas:

the villas are available to rent daily or weekly, in season and off season

We took a tour inside one of the 2 level, 2 bedroom suites. All I can say is "gorgeous". And I must add that I have not been paid (or received any compensation) to blog about this!

rock on

2011-07-12T15:14:00.000-03:00

I mentioned my $5 rocking chair auction purchase in yesterday's post, but I didn't post a photo. (this one's for you Janet!)

rocking chair auction purchase - $5!

It's a little rough, but I plan to use it in Purgatory (our screened in porch) or up in my studio.

the back is a little beat up

I have been pondering whether to leave it as is (perhaps varathaning the arms...I love the worn look and sense of history the worn arms give) or whether to sand and paint it.

it came with a foam seat, but I threw it out and will replace it

I'm not much of a refinisher (I hate doing it!) but I will replace the foam seat. I left the original seat at the auction...in the dumpster. It was pretty awful. We have some foam at home and sewing up a new cover will be an easy job for me.

so....leave it as is or paint it?

it was some good

2011-07-12T10:22:00.001-03:00

Sunday was a glorious sunny day, and Miss M had a hankering to go searching for sand dollars. We headed to Carter's Beach...the only beach I know that guarantees a sand dollar find every time.

Afterwards, we took a short drive to Summerville Centre, and tried out the restaurant at the resort. (I'll try to post some photos of the restaurant shortly).

Wow. Good food. Good company. Good weather. Good scenery.

It was some good. (a local expression....you'll have to come visit Nova Scotia to appreciate it....the scenery...and the expression!)

auction adventures

2011-07-11T12:20:00.000-03:00

Saturday was a day where everyone did their own thing. John's son, G, dropped our granddaughter Miss M off at our house and G went target shooting. DIL had to spend the day working in "the big city". John and Miss M spent the day at home. And what did I do? I went to the auction. Not just one auction...but two of them! I started off at an indoor auction...a wise choice since Mother Nature finally decided it was time for some rain. But after 45 minutes, I decided it was time to brave the weather and head out for a nearby outdoor auction. I spent a few hours taking shelter in a farm shed, and watching the auction unfold. I had my eyes on a couple of items, but I forgot to bring my cheque book so figured I'd be out of luck (cash or cheque only please!). My first score was a wooden rocking chair for $5. Yes. Five dollars. Fist pump! I did a little dance of joy in my head.

My second score was a wooden swing for $25. Yes. Twenty Five Dollars! Big dance of joy (this time not in my head).

Whoops. Problem. How to get the swing home? Solution: drive back home, recruit John, G, and Miss M, and head back to the auction. (and worry, worry, worry the whole drive back that the swing is not going to fit onto our trailer!) With the help of a couple of other men, John and G loaded the swing on our trailer. Et Voila, here she is....after arrival at the homestead safe and sound.

home...safe and sound!

We put her in place on Sunday with the help of G and DIL.

the swing was put in place on Sunday, a glorious sunny day

You just never know what I'll come home with after a day at the auction...or what kind of adventure auctioning will bring.

photo courtesy of DIL, who joined us after she finished work on Saturday

Isn't she a thing of beauty?

looking out at the swing from the back deck

And did I mention that I paid $25????

Growing Green

2011-07-06T17:08:00.001-03:00

I was very happy to hear that 3 of my windows have been selected, under a jury process, to be part of the artwork displayed at the upcoming Growing Green! Festival in Bridgewater. They were originally going to accept one piece of artwork from each successful applicant, but have decided to take all 3 of my submissions.

The festival runs from 8:30 to 12:30 on Saturday July 23rd, but all of my windows will be hanging in the library from July 23rd through August 26th. The festival celebrates learning to live within the Earth's means. My windows fall under the festival's criteria since I am "recycling" the windows to use as my canvasses.

This window will be part of the festival...it's still drying, so you can still see the glue...it will dry clear. I left the background clear...no in-fill or grout on this window...as a sample that sometimes it's better to "keep it simple". I sanded the frame, but left it "shabby chic" and will give the frame a protective coat of varathane.

I have been debating about whether or not to etch a saying on the window. The words I came up with are: "The magic of a garden soothes the soul."

Something is telling me not to add the saying, but I keep going back to take a look at the window, so I'm still debating.

a weekend of touring

2011-07-04T17:31:00.000-03:00

We had the most excellent weekend! Canada Day was celebrated with family in the small town of New Germany...nothing like a small town parade...BBQ'd sausages...and an ox pull. Back home to the dogs for a family BBQ.

Upper Blandford

Saturday's original plans were changed, but we were up early so headed off to the Farmer's Market in Hubbards. We followed this by a tour around the Aspotogan Penninsula. I really enjoy this drive, and we try to visit a couple of times each year. The smell of the wild roses was amazing!

Upper Blandford

We stopped at Bayswater Beach and took the dogs for a walk. It was an odd mixture of sun and fog.

Bayswater Beach

After our tour of the Aspotogan, we headed in to G and DIL's place, and had a wonderful afternoon and evening "at the lake".

Bayswater Beach

We stayed over, and then headed out on Sunday to the Eastern Shore and Musquodoboit Harbour. We dropped off 3 of my windows to sell at The Tourist Trap. This is my first venture into selling through a shop....keep your fingers crossed for me!

Happy Canada Day!

2011-07-01T20:53:00.000-03:00

Mulligan

Riley

Out Of Line?

2011-06-30T09:35:00.000-03:00

Something I worked on a few weeks ago...

window before the grouting stage

When I did a mock up of the window, I was going to call it "Out Of Line"....but when I look at it, I keep thinking "Mellow Yellow"...what do you think? (the flower centre is amber....it looks black in the photo)

window with grout applied

how does your garden grow?

2011-06-28T10:06:00.001-03:00

We moved into our Nova Scotia home in May 2008. Our house was literally in the middle of a hayfield, with not a speck of landscaping. The first thing we did was mow the hay. The second thing was to plant a flowering crabapple tree (something that reminds me of my dad and me growing up...family photos always taken by the flowering crab)

Here is John sitting on the picnic table...we had just arrived and discovered the world of ticks. I think we spent the first summer outside on top of the picnic table...with the fear of getting a tick if we walked on the grass! Ah...times have changed.

Below is the little garden we had at the end of the first summer....courtesy of our garden from Ontario (we drove 2 cars from Ontario to Nova Scotia...John and the dogs in one car....me, the cat, and garden plants in the other car). A small 4 foot garden set on 21 acres!

The summer of 2009, I felt a little braver about the tick situation and decided it was time for a little garden expansion. I added the pond (brought from Ontario):

The second phase of the 2009 expansion extended the garden up to and beyond the flowering crab (at left):

The garden runs parallel to our house. We added a forty foot deck along the back of the house in September 2009, which looks out over this garden. 2010 brought another expansion phase, along with the new clothesline...a must for country living!

Last summer was also the year that our shed was built.

I added a garden next to the shed last year, which is filling in nicely. (that garden was supposed to happen this year, but I couldn't wait). Since the shed garden was installed last year, that meant....

Yes! another expansion to the main garden. Last week, John brought in 5 cubic yards of soil with our trailer and prepared the garden for me. I added the plants at the end of the week (still some filling in to do):

And now we can relax and watch things grow! No more expansions planned...

...well, maybe a bigger veggie garden next year?

going with the flow

2011-06-27T11:47:00.001-03:00

John, Mulligan, Sara and Riley enjoying the lakeside property. Photo taken by DIL.

Wish I could say this was our own view, but alas it belongs to G & DIL and Miss M. (our son, daughter in law and granddaughter). It's not showing in this photo, but it was a bright blue sky (gasp...seems it does happen now and then!) and a glorious afternoon. Our day didn't turn out as we planned...instead we enjoyed lakeside life with our family. Couldn't ask for a better way to spend the day!

Before & After: Dragonfly Window

2011-06-17T11:28:00.000-03:00

My dragonfly window is almost complete...I just have to etch my signature with a dremel at the bottom of the window. Here is the "before" shot...the window without grout:

Here is the "after" shot...window complete with grout:

I like the way the grout makes the colours pop. I left the window frame "shabby"...didn't paint it white like I do for most windows. The frame is predominantely maroon, with some off white chips on top. I varnished it with exterior varnish. This isn't my usual style, but I quite like the way it turned out.

detail from the grouted window...the frame has been left "shabby chic" with various paints showing