Pat's Photos

Just a Yellow Flower

2010-06-07T09:28:00.003-05:00

A long time...

2009-11-30T02:02:00.001-05:00

It's been a very long time since I last posted but there's been much water flowing under life's bridge and just no time to blog. I hope that this will change in the coming days.

Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia

2009-03-29T11:04:00.000-05:00

Just before I left Virginia to come back to Guelph this time, we took a wonderful drive on the Skyline Drive and what a view it was to see the wonderful "folds of colour" of the rolling mountains off into the distance and the sky even seemed to "match".

Blog not working

2009-03-28T15:31:00.002-05:00

I've been trying to post a photo in here and it just doesn't want to work! :(

Geordie

2009-02-13T15:47:00.004-05:00

GEORDIE My Wonderful Border Collie

Geordie has been my constant companion for almost 13 years. He usually goes with me everywhere and he knows just about everything I'm talking about.

Last week, I almost lost my buddy. He had a little "thing" on his lower eyelid that was scratching his eyeball every time he blinked causing his eye to bleed and so I decided to have it removed in order to take away this irritation. Due to his age, the vet tried to do it with a "local" anesthetic but Geordie sure didn't like to see those scissors so it was decided to use a very mild "general".

Geordie just had a very bad reaction to that and on Tuesday, I nearly lost him. The vet worked so very hard (over 3 1/2 hours) trying to revive him and so far his time spent with "Geordie, my lad" (as he called him) has been working albeit very, very slowly. Last night, I slept in my bed with him beside me in his bed on the floor. Up until last night, I've been just lying beside him on the floor and we've spent a lot of time staring into each other's eyes!

Here's Geordie the day before his surgery. As some of you know, he went downhill very quickly followiing the anesthetic and I nearly lost him. He so loves the snow and he was just sitting at the door staring and wishing I'd go out and play with him.

Geordie Today

Geordie loves his bed. Today he seems to be much more comfortable and I'm so happy. I'm still force feeding him though as he really has no interest in eating yet.

He's not out of the woods yet. Last year at this time, he was about 45 lb. On Boxing Day, he was 35 lb. and on Tues. he was 33 lb. So, he's been losing weight gradually and the vet suspects something "nasty" but we're going to try hard to get some weight back on him as he loves to run and explore and I just know that we're going to have many more fantastic days together.

What a long time!

2008-10-10T10:34:00.009-05:00

...Since I've posted in here!

This is the reason!

On May 24, 2008, I was married to Paul! So thought I'd share a special photo of that day with you all.

IN THE PARK

This photo was taken by Carol ("Abelia" on the Photography Cafe). This was taken after the ceremony when we went to the park.

THE VOWS

My daughter, Janice, was Matron of Honour and Paul's son, Jim, was Best Man. Pastor Wayne Boadway officiated at the service held in Royal City Baptist Church, Guelph, Ontario

This photo was taken by Ross Blakey ("RBont" on the Photography Cafe).

He is Risen As He Said!

2008-03-23T00:35:00.001-05:00

This photo of the Easter Lily was taken by Paul and I thank him for allowing me to put it in here today as we celebrate the wonderful Resurrection of our Lord and Saviour!

He Is Risen! Happy Easter!

CHRIST AROSE (Click to hear music)

Author: Robert Lowry, 1826-1899
Musician: Robert Lowry, 1826-1899

Low in the grave He lay,
Jesus, my Savior!
Waiting the coming day,
Jesus, my Lord!

Chorus:
Up from the grave He arose,
With a mighty triumph o'er His foes;
He arose a victor
From the dark domain,
And He lives forever
With His saints to reign.
He arose! He arose!
Hallelujah! Christ arose!

Vainly they watch His bed,
Jesu, my Savior!
Vainly they seal the dead,
Jesus my Lord!

Chorus:

Death cannot keep his prey,
Jesus, my Savior!
He tore the bars away,
Jesus my Lord!

Chorus:

A Wedding is Planned!

2008-03-17T15:46:00.002-05:00

I thought I'd let you all know that my presence on here might be a little haphazard for the next little while and I am planning a wedding for May!

Whose wedding? Mine!

I became a widow seven years ago and for me I thought that this is what life was going to be like from now on. But, my Lord and Saviour has had other plans for my life and He has brought into my life a wonderful man named Paul.

Paul arrived on Saturday night with roses and a lovely little white box! Then yesterday, he made this lovely collage of three photos--a photo of three of the roses from the dozen red roses he brought, the ring in the box and the ring on my finger!

I do hope that you enjoy the photo as much as I do and that you will be patient with me while I plan with Paul our future life together.

Red Roses and a Ring
A Special Day for Pat

Just the Black Notes!

2008-03-12T17:44:00.002-05:00

This will AMAZE you! Just the black notes!

US Dream Academy

More of Geordie

2008-03-04T20:27:00.001-05:00

Since I've been otherwise engaged for the past few days and unable to get out to get new photos, I thought I'd just share a few more photos of my good buddy. Actually, I just can't imagine life without him. He listens intently to everything I say as if he's wanting to join right in. Here he is again where he loves to be--in the snow!

"I'm sure she said we were going in the car..."

I had told Geordie that we were going in the car to the store and this is how he stayed at the door just waiting for me to keep my word. And in between times, he was busy chasing the black squirrels out of the back yard!

"Getting Old"

He's getting old but still loves to run and play...

"Pat! Rescue Me!"

Geordie takes a lot from my youngest grandson who insists on dressing him up! Here he is all ready to go out in the snow with his winter toque on!!

Geordie

2008-03-03T10:29:00.000-05:00

Geordie is a tri-colour border collie and one of the most intelligent and obedient dogs that I've ever met. He knows left and right and he's just my good friend. He's 12 years old but is still full of life and just loves the snow.

So, this photo of him was taken one day at the back door after he had been playing in the snow and he was asking me to go outside to play! If you click on the picture, you'll see it larger and see that he's simply covered with snow!

GEORDIE

I Love You

2008-02-14T13:36:00.002-05:00

A Rose That Says, "I Love You!"

This is the day when so many folks around the world tell their loved ones that they love them. Have you told him today that you love him? Have you told her? Or what about the little ones? They all need to hear those three words, "I love you!"

But what a wonderful thing if we did this every day! As you leave each day for your place of work, tell your wife that you love her. As he sets off on his journey to his place of work, give him a hug and whisper those words that he loves to hear, "I love you!" Maybe you could even leave a note with those words written on it in a snack for the children. And your Dad and Mother both need to know, too, that they are loved. Phone them or write them a wee note today and simply say, "Mum, I love you! Just wanted you to know!" or "Dad, feel like a coffee? Let's meet and I'll buy you a one today. Just wanted to let you know that I love you, Dad!"

We all need to know that we're loved. Go and tell someone that you love them now. It's so nice to hear those words.

The greatest gift ever was the gift of love that we're told about in John 3:16. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life".

O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus
(Click to hear music)

Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature,
shall be able to separate us from the love of God,
which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8:39

Author: S. Trevor Francis, 1834-1925 Musician: Thomas John Williams, 1869-1944

O the deep, deep love of Jesus,
vast, unmeasured, boundless, free!
Rolling as a mighty ocean
in its fullness over me!
Underneath me, all around me,
is the current of Thy love
Leading onward, leading homeward
to Thy glorious rest above!

O the deep, deep love of Jesus,
spread His praise from shore to shore!
How he loveth, ever loveth,
changeth never, nevermore!
How he watches o’er His loved ones,
died to call them all His own;
How for them intercedeth,
watcheth o’er them from the throne!

O the deep, deep love of Jesus,
love of every love the best!
’Tis an ocean full of blessing,
’tis a haven giving rest!
O the deep, deep love of Jesus,
’tis a heaven of heavens to me;
And it lifts me up to glory,
for it lifts me up to Thee!

New Life in Spring

2008-02-11T21:26:00.000-05:00

I have a friend, Colin Moffett, in Northern Ireland who writes poetry! I've really been blessed by it. Well, now I can listen to him as he reads his own poems! How lovely is that!

He has a video camera and all of this photography is his own. I do hope that you enjoy it as much as I have.

NEW LIFE IN SPRING

Hear the whisper of the breeze
Sighing softly through the trees
Rays of sunshine kiss my face
Fleecy clouds above me race
Dancing in the soft blue sky
Where soar the singing birds on high

Fresh green leaves trees adorn
Cuckoo calls from early morn
Busy bees on the wing
Listen to the blackbird sing
See the beauty of the flowers
Watered from fresh April showers

Brightly glistens morning dew
Blades of grass a greener hue
Spring is here, cold days are gone
Each morning now a brighter dawn
Skipping lambs; just newborn
Pink small flowers on the thorn

Cherry trees are out in bloom
Also flowering gorse and broom
Rabbits frolic without a care
Fragrant smells are in the air
Hedgehog stirs from winter’s rest
Mother bird builds her nest

Sunny days are sure to bring
Life renewal in the Spring
I thank God that I can see
Nature’s beauty surrounding me
God in mercy and in love
Sends us blessings from above

Days of Spring bring life anew
God will give new life to you
Hope eternal it will spring
If to Jesus you will bring
And give to Him your heart today
He will wash your sin away

Colin Moffett

Glorious Sunset

2008-02-10T22:39:00.001-05:00

Incredible Artwork of the Creator

I don't know if you all think about sunsets like I do--I just love them and find that they are so special. Our Creator has created such wonderful works of art with His paintbrush, hasn't He? As I was out last evening and the sun was almost set and there wasn't much light left, I just kep on snapping. All of the photos didn't turn out but I thought I'd share yet one more with you all of the beautiful sky.

As I stood there and stared at the beautiful sky that was changing by the minute and as I heard the honking of the geese, the less noisy quacking of the many mallards, and other wild things out there on the water, my mind kept on helping me to remember about the words of a song I had heard earlier in the day on the radio. It's entitled, "The Paintbrush" and I'm going to share the words with you...

THE PAINT BRUSH
Chuck Milhuff

Life started out like a canvas
And God started painting on me
But I took the paintbrush from Jesus
And painted what I wished to see.

The colors I painted kept running
And the objects were all out of size
I had made a mess of my painting
My way now seemed so unwise.

So I brought my painting to Jesus
All the colors, the pieces so wrong
In the markets of earth it was worthless
But His blood made my painting belong.

He worked with no condemnation
Never mentioned the mess I had made
Then He dipped His brush in the rainbow
And He signed it, the price has been paid.

When I gave the brush back to Jesus,
When I gave the brush back to Him
He started all over life’s canvas to fill
When I gave to Jesus the brush of my will.

He worked with no condemnation
Never mentioned the mess I had made
Then He dipped His brush in the rainbow
And He signed it, the price has been paid.

Yes, it was a lovely sunset the other night and even though I was standing in snow that was deeper than my knees and I didn't remember to bring my gloves from the car, I so enjoyed looking at the wonderful artwork created by my Father and I thank Him for bringing to my remembrance this wonderful poem.

The Bridge

2008-02-06T21:52:00.000-05:00

BRIDGE AT HARRISBURG, PENNSYLVANIA

As I travelled home from Virginia last Thursday, I came to this bridge over the Susquehanna River at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

I was impressed by the reflections in the water and the colours in those reflections. I was stopped at a red light so I quickly picked up my camera and took this photo out of the car window before the light turned green!

Rolling Hills Along the Road

2008-02-06T00:50:00.000-05:00

If you click on the photo and view it larger, you will see the rolling hills along this northern Ontario road. I was travelling from my sister's home near Powassan and on my way out to the highway, I was so impressed by the roller coaster effect on this road.

It felt like a roller coaster as well!

Thank you so much!

2008-02-01T13:41:00.001-05:00

I would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of loving messages posted for our dear friend, Sue, wife of Mark Gurkin. I'm sure that when the funeral service is over today and she has time to relax and reflect in the coming days, she'll be happy to read them. I do hope that all of you reading this will continue to leave her a message as all will be important for her to read later. I speak from experience as when my dear husband of 40 years was Promoted to Glory, I so enjoyed reading the messages of condolence sent to me during the days immediately following his homecall. Truly, the death of a believer is a lovely event since it says in scripture, that "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." (Phil 1: 21). This is how Jack, my husband felt and I, too, will be happy to be in the presence of my Lord and Saviour when the time comes for Him to call me home to himself. Thank you once again and please continue to think of Sue and leave her messages here.

Farewell Mark!

2008-01-28T20:50:00.000-05:00

All photos are Mark Gurkin's...

Farewell to a Good Online Friend

Mark Gurkin aka “ggraph”

Elder's Mill Bridge

It’s always difficult to say “Farewell” to anyone when that friend reaches the end of life’s journey but when it’s a good friend, this is so much more difficult.

Mark Gurkin aka ggraph was a good online friend who I have never met but have spoken to on the telephone and have communicated with for almost a year. Mark was unwell. He was patiently waiting for a kidney-pancreas transplant which never came in time for our Mark. He had problems with his eyesight due to difficulty while on the dialysis machine. What a time he had! But he always sounded upbeat and happy in his situation—even though he was going through such difficulties.

Our last telephone conversation was on January 9, 2008 when I shared some good news of mine and he was elated to hear that news. He was looking forward to the time when I’d be able to go to Georgia and meet both Sue, his wonderful wife and caregiver, and himself.

My last email to him was on January 13 and I was telling him of a wonderful online church service I had watched on TV that morning and here’s a bit of what I said to Mark:

“This morning, Mark, as I was getting ready for church, Paul phoned me from Virginia. He had just finished listening to Charles Stanley's son speak on TV (from 7 am to 8 am). Usually, it's Charles Stanley from Atlanta but today his son, Andy, was there from a church called "North Point". Paul was so excited as he knows the area down there and he said, "Pat, Andy is so close to your friend, Mark! If Mark is at exit “xx”, Andy is just down at exit 10 off 400! Can you phone him and tell him that this was a wonderful program today?" I told him I would write to you, Mark. I'm listening to Andy Stanley as I type this Mark and he's just so wonderful today.

Here's the URL: http://www.intouch.org/site/c.dhKHIXPKIuE/b.2287421/k.944D/This_Week_on_TV.htm

When you get to this URL, you can click on a wee icon on the screen to see it full screen, Mark. It's really good. Please let me know what you think. I wish I were closer to you and if I were, I'd drive you to his church. Apparently, it's massive and it's right off the highway near you.

I will call you later. I must go to my church service tonight as I'm playing the organ. I had an email from Natalya and she sends you her best wishes, Mark.”

And I added as well, “Hi Sue! I look forward to meeting you one day. Maybe Paul will drive me to Georgia someday. God bless you both and remember that my thoughts and prayers (and Paul's in Virginia) are being offered for you both every day. Sue, it's such a wonderful job you're doing caring for Mark. I loved every minute of my time caring for Jack and I realize now how important a job it was and only a spouse of a dialysis patient can even begin to realize what you are going through. No one else can. And only Mark can begin to know what you're going through as you care for him as Jack used to remind me all the time.

We'll chat soon. I just wanted you to know about Andy Stanley quickly as the video doesn't stay on the web site all that long. I hope you listen and watch.”

Old Homestead

So, folks, this is where I was with my friend Mark Gurkin. We shared much about my Heavenly Father and I told him how much Jack, my late husband, loved the Saviour. How I wish I had been able to make the trip down to Georgia to see both him and Sue. Mark so often said that Sue was his life and his wonderful soulmate. He lived for Sue. Jack was also on dialysis for 3 ½ years before he was promoted to glory and so I realize just how difficult it is to be the caregiver like Sue was to dear Mark.

Even though Mark could hardly see, he was still out there taking photographs as often as he possibly could. He loved covered bridges, birds and all kinds of wildlife. He displayed many of these lovely photographs in his blog entitled, Photo Life and on his website entitled, North Georgia Images

If you would like to post a comment also on the Photography Café where he loved to spend time during the past year, please do. His family will appreciate it. Here’s a link to a topic where the members of the Café are posting and you can simply register on the site to post your message of condolence as well. Farewell Mark aka ggraph and you might like to see the photos that he uploaded in the site. Here’s his Gallery on the Café.

I think it’s fitting to end this little memorial to our dear blogging friend and fellow photographer by using one of his own photos from his website.

From Mark:

“I often pass by this huge American flag. It's so large it takes a very windy day to get a full flag shot. While out one evening I decided to go by and see how it looked. When I got there the sun was beginning to set and the clouds were really great. Hence this image. A great image for the end of the day on the 4th of July”

SUNSET SALUTE

A great image, Mark for the end of the day on January 27^th, 2008

Our deepest sympathy to you, dear Sue, and the whole family circle of our dear friend Mark Gurkin.

In God We Trust

2008-01-16T12:49:00.000-05:00

I'm Canadian but... ...I found this so true.

Ohhh, I've been naughty...

2008-01-15T14:18:00.001-05:00

...I've neglected posting in here again!!!!

I call this photo...

Just a Drop of Water

Just a tiny bead of water is seen about to drip off the swan's beak! Do you see it?

Snowy Tree Ornament

2008-01-07T22:30:00.001-05:00

After our heavy snow, these tree ornaments on this tree were still hanging on and covered with snow. I thought that they looked rather pretty.

I guess I could call it a "Picture of Me"! HAHAHA!

I Met AnnaBanana!!!

2008-01-03T23:55:00.001-05:00

I MET ANNA!!!

What a wonderful time I had this evening with Anna who has been visiting here in Canada from the UK and it was just great to be able to catch up with her. Whenever I meet Anna, it feels as if we've known each other forever!!!

Anna's Mother, Anna and myself

This is Anna's mother, Carol, myself and Anna. It sure was a fantastic evening. Anna flies home tomorrow and I thought it was not going to be possible to get together this visit but how lovely to be able to do it.

I hope that you'll all check out Anna's blog as her photography is second to none and I so admire it.

GOOD FRIENDS

So, here we are once more. I hope that it will not be long until we can finally meet once more.

Anna, so good to see you even though it was for such a short visit this time. I urge you all, if you haven't viewed Anna's gallery on the Photography Cafe, to please visit her albums and leave a comment if you're a member. If not, please feel free to register at the Cafe and make yourself right at home!

2007-12-31T13:35:00.000-05:00

On the way to church each Sunday evening, we pass this "Gingerbread-looking" House! It's on Paisley Street, west of Edinburgh. Don't you like it? I sure do.

Almost Nightfall in Guelph

2007-12-20T00:38:00.001-05:00

It was almost dark. The white snow was almost unseen. It was almost night. But the sky was so pretty, I decided to take a photo anyway. There were some birds chirping as they were settling down in their nests for the night but for the most part, the world was silent.

Nutty Chocolatier

2007-12-18T00:42:00.001-05:00

I love the name of this little store that is in the Old Quebec Street Mall.

Stormy Day

2007-12-16T21:37:00.001-05:00

What a lot of snow!

It didn't stop all night and this morning in order to go to church, I had to do a fast back up run out of the drive making sure no cars were coming along the road as the snow was so deep.

When I got home from church, the car had to be parked on the road as the drive was so full of snow from both falling and from the strong winds.

It's dug out now and I'm now warming my fingers and toes!

What's your weather like where you live? I'd be so very interested.

Want to make a phone call?

2007-12-12T15:48:00.001-05:00

If you'd like to make a phone call in St. George's Square in the City Centre, you'll be standing beside a very cold ice sculpture!

This was the scene last evening in the freezing rain!

It's Beginning to Look Like Christmas!

2007-12-12T03:10:00.001-05:00

It's Beginning To Look

A Lot Like Christmas!

This is a lovely old home in Arkell,

just south of the city.

My Apologies For Being Absent

Life just got so busy and hectic for me with lots of surprises and new adventures. Along the journey of life, I've had a big "right turn" and now am waiting for God's will in some major life matters.

My blogs were put on the back burner and now here I am posting once more.

I appreciate so very much the emails I've received from some of you and I just wanted to say how happy I am after hearing from you all.

AWAY IN A MANGER

Gyp

2007-08-06T22:48:00.001-05:00

(Click on photos to see larger)

"But, Pat..."
"...I'm sorry for digging out your new plants, and I'm sorry for getting up onto the patio table and knocking everything off, and I'm sorry for chewing up all your plastic potting pots and I'm sorry for..."

"Forgive me, Pat?

"I really AM sorry..."
Gyp is really getting into stuff and here he is after digging in some really wet earth due to my watering the garden.

On Eagles Wings

2007-07-31T16:07:00.001-05:00

It's so very, very hot here today and I have a new washing machine coming on Friday and have been in my basement most of the day trying to get the space prepared for the new machine. At least it's cooler down in the basement.

I've been humming this lovely song and thought I'd just share it here until I can get out and take more photos!

Unfolding More

2007-07-28T22:16:00.001-05:00

The sunflower is so much taller and my position to take the photograph is very difficult but this is the flower head now.

Unfolding

2007-07-23T18:11:00.001-05:00

UNFOLDING

I watched for a few days at this sunflower beside my front door. I was amazed at how gently it looked to be unfolding before my eyes.

What a wonderful Creator we have to make such a beautiful creation!

His name is Gyp

2007-07-18T20:20:00.001-05:00

GYP

It's almost impossible right now to take a good photo of Gyp but I snapped these this evening just to let all of our friends know what his name is. I think I've tried every name in the book and all that have been suggested to me but each time I'd say, "Hi Gyp!", his eyes sparkled and he'd come running so I think that Gyp has chosen his own name.

I always enjoyed the James Herriot story about the little border collie named "Gyp".

When we go for walks, he knows where he lives and turns into his house on the way home. Geordie is tolerating him but loves to herd Gyp. So, just wanted to update you all and I'll get some better photos in the coming days.

My friend has been very ill and my time has been spent taking her to appointments, etc. and so photo-taking has taken a back seat for me for a little while.

On and on...

2007-07-14T22:12:00.001-05:00

On and on they go across the countryside, cutting a swath as they go.

I'm hoping that I have a less busy week ahead but my calendar book is kind of filled up with so many appointments again. Will do my best though.

Two days of travelling around

2007-07-05T22:47:00.000-05:00

Forget-me-not

Yesterday was filled with errands around Guelph and today I was off to London. I didn't get home till later this evening but it was nice to meet up with another member of Photography Cafe after my Dental appointment at the Dental College.

So, my message today is "Please forget-me-not" LOL I hope life is not so busy in the coming days.

A Whale Thanks Her Rescuers

2007-07-03T11:53:00.000-05:00

I received this email today:

If you read the front page story of the SF Chronicle of December 13, 2005, you would have read about a female humpback whale who had become entangled in a spider web of crab traps and lines.

She was weighted down by hundreds of pounds of traps that caused her to struggle to stay afloat. She also had hundreds of yards of line rope wrapped around her body, her tail, her torso, a line tugging in her mouth.

A fisherman spotted her just east of the Farralone Islands (outside the Golden Gate ) and radioed an environmental group for help.

Within a few hours, the rescue team arrived and determined that she was so bad off, the only way to save her was to dive in and untangle her ..

This was a very dangerous proposition. One slap of the tail could kill a rescuer. They worked for hours with curved knives and eventually freed her.

When she was free, the divers say she swam in what seemed like joyous circles. She then came back to each and every diver, one at a time, and nudged them, pushed gently around --- she thanked them. Some said it was the most incredibly beautiful experience of their lives.

The guy who cut the rope out of her mouth says her eye was following him the whole time, and he will never be the same. (There is something special about a whale looking right at you; they will never forget you.)

May you, and all those you love, be so blessed and fortunate ... to be surrounded by people who will help you get untangled from the things that are binding you.

And, may you always know the joy of giving and receiving gratitude.

Belated Happy Canada Day Greetings!

2007-07-03T11:40:00.001-05:00

My goodness, life for me has become hectic and so busy!

Puppy needs a new name. I will take all suggestions and consider them. All of the grandchildren and neighbours and some close friends suggested the name at various times and I was a bit wary but thought, "OK, I'll go along with it!"

Now, two of my kids have second thoughts!

So a new name must be found!

Geordie and Jack

2007-06-30T12:02:00.001-05:00

Warming up to each other

Here they are both together on my swing on the deck. Both are fast asleep. We had gone for a little walk up the road and I carried Jack and put him down sometimes and he had so much fun trying to keep up.

Both were keen to just have a sleep when we got home.

Julie, it would be nice if you did that! ;) Maybe some time!

New Member of the Family

2007-06-29T07:18:00.001-05:00

I was away all day yesterday to the village of Formosa, Ontario.

I was on a serious mission! This little border collie was chosen by me last week and now he was ready to come home to live in Guelph. Hopefully, he will be a good friend of Geordie. So far, Lauren has totally disowned him but maybe she'll come around as well.

MEET JACK

I will probably be calling him Jackie. But this name could change. You just never know!

On the Credit River

2007-06-27T21:26:00.000-05:00

Just outside of Guelph (well, a little bit further than "just outside") is a village of Terra Cotta and I went down to the river and was taken aback by this poor willow tree.

I suppose through many storms and windy days over the years, more and more of its branches had broken off and all are in the river but still this tree breaks out in new leaf each year.

If you enlarge the photo, you'll see the detailed tangled mess.

Reminds me a bit of our lives if we allow the tangles to stay without unravelling them.

Through the Farm Fence

2007-06-24T22:10:00.000-05:00

Please click to see images larger

THROUGH THE FARM FENCE

I was on my way home from my daughter's last evening and the sunset was beautiful. The smaller photo isn't the greatest as you can't see the fence but I think if you click on the photo you'll see it better.

HAY PATTERNS

A little before the sunset photo was taken, I was really taken aback by the interesting patterns made by the tractor cutting the "first cut" in his fields.

Do you like seeing patterns like this?

Yellow Flower

2007-06-22T22:03:00.000-05:00

Today has been a very busy day for me. A friend has been in the hospital and today she was sent home and so I picked her up. I usually give her an injection every Thursday but since she was in the hospital, I assumed that she'd have it there. They sent her home and asked that I give it to her.

I also had some not so nice news of my dear brother who had his bladder removed due to cancer last November and they've decided that they must now start chemo (started yesterday) as they've found "something" in the lymph gland near to his aorta and another "something" on one of his ureters.

So, those of you who check out both of my blogs, will see the same photo. I'm sorry!

I don't know the name of this little yellow flower but I'm sure that Ruth will know. It's in a lot of hanging baskets and window boxes and it's in one of mine.

The Prayer for a Baby Girl

2007-06-21T22:25:00.000-05:00

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6

It's been a very traumatic few months on the Photography Cafe for a family with a new baby girl. This little girl has had a very rocky ride for her entire life of six months and we've all be riding this roller coaster with her and her family.

Two days ago, her father telephoned me from England requesting prayer as she had to have one of her kidney's removed but none of the surgeons and anesthetists thought that her poor little heart could withstand the surgery. It all looked very, very grim yesterday.

I posted on Christian Photographers about this last minute request and the folks really rallied around. Surgery was at 2 pm British time yesterday and there were people all over the world praying at that time for this wee tyke. Some of the members of CP were setting their alarm clocks in order to be able to pray when surgery was starting over in England.

We've heard today from Daddy who says that she's come through the surgery! She was on a ventilator for awhile after the surgery to help her breathe but then later, she was playing with a toy! You can read about some of this family's journey with this dear little girl's health here.

I thought it would be special if we could listen to this song by Celine Dion and Josh Groban...

THE PRAYER

"The Prayer"
I pray you'll be our eyes, and watch us where we go.
And help us to be wise in times when we don't know
Let this be our prayer, when we lose our way
Lead us to the place, guide us with your grace
To a place where we'll be safe

La luce che tu hai
I pray we'll find your light
nel cuore restera
and hold it in our hearts.
a ricordarci che
When stars go out each night,
eterna stella sei

The light you have
I pray we'll find your light
will be in the heart
and hold it in our hearts.
to remember us that
When stars go out each night,
you are eternal star
Nella mia preghiera
Let this be our prayer
quanta fede c'e
when shadows fill our day

How much faith there's
Let this be our prayer
in my prayer
when shadows fill our day
Lead us to a place, guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we'll be safe

Sognamo un mondo senza piu violenza
un mondo di giustizia e di speranza
Ognuno dia la mano al suo vicino
Simbolo di pace, di fraternita

We dream a world without violence
a world of justice and faith.
Everyone gives the hand to his neighbours
Symbol of peace, of fraternity
La forza che ci da
We ask that life be kind
e il desiderio che
and watch us from above
ognuno trovi amor
We hope each soul will find
intorno e dentro se
another soul to love

The force his gives us
We ask that life be kind
is wish that
and watch us from above
everyone finds love
We hope each soul will find
around and inside
another soul to love
Let this be our prayer
Let this be our prayer, just like every child

Need to find a place, guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we'll be safe
Need to find a place, guide us with your grace
Give us faith so we'll be safe

E la fede che
hai acceso in noi,
sento che ci salvera

It's the faith
you light in us
I feel it will save us

Twelve Days Old

2007-06-20T22:30:00.001-05:00

(Click on the photo to see larger)

Such a sweet little chick!

Up at my sister's, a shipment of little chicks had arrived a week ago and with over 100 chicks in the rather large enclosure that they are living in, it was difficult to isolate only one chick to capture a shot!

What city do you belong in?

2007-06-20T13:54:00.001-05:00

I found this fun quiz on CG's blog:

You Belong in Dublin

Friendly and down to earth, you want to enjoy Europe without snobbery or pretensions. You're the perfect person to go wild on a pub crawl... or enjoy a quiet bike ride through the old part of town.

What European City Do You Belong In?

It's funny too as I just took a loaf of Irish Wheaten Bread out of the oven!!!

Indian Paintbrush

2007-06-19T14:56:00.000-05:00

Here's a photo of a lovely flower that is everywhere up north. I really like the colours of it.

Indian Paintbrush
(Click to see larger if you wish)

Reeds & Waterlilies on a Northern Lake

2007-06-18T18:12:00.000-05:00

I had a lovely time away on the weekend. It was really good to be with family and friends in the far north where the towns are very small and far apart.

This photo was taken at late dusk on a lake near to my sister's home and the bull frogs were so noisey. The waterlilies were lovely and I saw birds I don't often see down here in Southern Ontario.

I haven't looked at all my photos yet as I arrived home after midnight.

Away for the Weekend

2007-06-14T14:15:00.000-05:00

I'm heading out early in the morning for North Bay, Ontario (about 5 hours drive) and won't be back till maybe about midnight Sunday night. I need some R&R so I'm going to my sister's to see if I can get some! :)

Sparrows

2007-06-12T23:12:00.000-05:00

My friend, Kevin, is living in Japan and is a pastor over there. He's originally from Louisiana in the USA.

On his blog, he's posted some lovely photos of sparrows. I'd appreciate it if you went to see them and left a comment.

Crystal Pitcher on an Old Picnic Table

2007-06-12T23:07:00.001-05:00

I was out the other day looking for some things to capture and at an old run down farmhouse, I found the most beautiful crystal pitcher sitting on a very old wooden picnic table.

The time was just about 12 noon so the absolutely incorrect time to try to take photos with the bright overhead sunshine but I think it turned out ok.

Do you?

I'd love to know why this gorgeous pitcher was sitting on this old disused table.

I'm chickened out!

2007-06-10T20:19:00.000-05:00

Oops! Sorry, same post as in my Guelph Blog tonight due to it being my birthday and I still have company.

SWISS CHALET

Just a very quick post as I still have company here. Last Wednesday evening I took my granddaughter to this Swiss Chalet for her 19th birthday treat.

Saturday, my daughter and her family came and took me to the Swiss Chalet for my birthday supper.

Today is my birthday and my youngest son and his wife and daughter telephoned and said, "We're on our way over, Mum! We're taking you to the Swiss Chalet for your birthday!"

So, here I sit completely chickened out! I love the Swiss Chalet though. I'm not one bit sad that I went three times in four days!!!

Last Year's Blossom

2007-06-08T22:50:00.000-05:00

Click photo to see larger

I'm still trying out various settings on this camera and I came across this "last year's blossom" and thought I'd try a capture of it.

I sort of like it. Do you?

Muddy Sneakers' Blog

2007-06-07T15:18:00.001-05:00

What a great blog is being created on Muddy_Sneakers' blog. I can't stand snakes but she's getting me to at least look at them.

Hope you all have a look at her blog here.

A little day trip to Bramalea, Ontario

2007-06-06T22:57:00.000-05:00

Please forgive but today, this blog entry is the same as for the Guelph Daily Photo as I thought you might like to read it as well.

Please click on the photos to see them larger!

Now, who do you think is the owner of these lovely legs?

And why in the world would I be taking photos of men's legs???

Over in Bramalea on Kennedy Road just north of Steeles Avenue, I stopped in at Tim Horton's to get a much needed coffee for my journey home to Guelph and there were balloons everywhere--both inside and outside!!

Inside? What a special view!

Today was Camp Day at Tim Horton's right across Canada and all the proceeds from coffee sold today went toward helping to send an underprivileged child to camp this summer.

The legs?

It was so special to see three Peel Regional Police constables smiling and asking folks to donate just a $1.00 toward helping underprivileged children to go to summer camp. They had brought T-shirts with them to sell as the sign says but by the time I had arrived, all were sold out.

Each person donating only $1.00 or more received a beautifully decorated cupcake. It was so lovely to see this gesture.

But who made those cupcakes?

They didn't look like anything from Tim Horton's showcase!

So I asked and the two officers with their caps on pointed at the fellow with no cap and unanimously said, "He did!" Well, that cupcake guys was so tasty. I pulled over in Terra Cotta to admire the river there on the way home to Guelph and decided that I'd eat it there.

And their vehicles?

I know that there's something special about a police cruiser, isn't there? Especially driven by one of these burly young men.

I know that I always enjoyed seeing my husband in his police uniform behind the wheel of his cruiser back many years ago when he was on Vaughan Township Police Department (pre York Regional).

Well...

I'm sure that these fellows would look just as good but...

They parked their vehicles outside the Tim Horton's Donut Shop on the sidewalk!!! I parked my car in a proper parking spot!

Imagine that!

And it's because they drove these...

So, let's hear it for the Peel Regional Police Force!!!

Great work guys! Hope you leave a message on here. Hope you enjoyed it and thanks for all your work volunteering today to help underprivileged children go to camp this summer!

You sure make good cupcakes! Hope you didn't miss your calling.

See you on the road and I hope you don't have your lights flashing telling me to pull over cuz I'm speeding or something. Grandmas don't speed!

And oh, the legs? They belong to the tallest fellow--the one with no cap!

More of the chickadee

2007-06-05T21:50:00.001-05:00

(Click to see larger) After I shot the little bird in the tree with the big grub, she flew to this little birdhouse. The really funny thing is that this isn't meant to be a real birdhouse. It's just a decorative one that my friend has been hanging in the tree by her deck year after year. The round hole is too small for the sparrows to enter but the chickadee manages just fine.

(Click to see larger)

A Yummy Supper

2007-06-04T22:26:00.001-05:00

Sorry for being away but I had some difficulty with my program I use for viewing my photos and had to reload it again and had some problems there as well.

You can click on the photo and see it larger if you like. It's not the greatest shot but I was amazed at being able to get this little chickadee with supper in it's mouth for it's little babies. The background of the photo is much too busy so I'll get out and do more practicing with this camera!

Technical Problems

2007-05-31T22:22:00.000-05:00

Tonight, I had some technical problems with my computer so couldn't post any photos. Thanks for all the comments lately and hopefully, I will get caught up with your blogs.

Darts

2007-05-29T23:10:00.001-05:00

On my walk last night in the woods, I saw many dandelions where the winds had blown most of the seeds away.

This one reminded me so much of a dart game. It was almost dark but I took it anyway. I sort of like the sparkle too of the remaining seed still clinging.

I went for a walk in the woods

2007-05-28T23:18:00.000-05:00

Tonight was my granddaughter's 10th birthday! My goodness, time does fly! So, grandmas and grandpas were invited over for roast beef dinner and it was lovely. She had her party with her friends yesterday.

She and I took a walk into the woods behind their house and I found some flowers. I have no idea what this one is called but I left some leaves on it for easy identification. The flowers to tiny, tiny mauve ones.

Andrew bought this variegated leaf clover to put into their little wildflower garden. He's done a wonderful job this year.

Where there's a will...

2007-05-26T23:48:00.001-05:00

...there's a way!

As our children were growing up many years ago, Jack and I would often caution them about the friends that they would keep. We'd try to explain to them that it's so easy for "friends" to bring you down but it's difficult to lift up your friends to the way that you think and believe.

I used to teach piano and as a result, I'd use my piano as an example to the little ones as they were learning about life. I would ask them if it would be easy if you were standing on top of the piano to lift another person up on to the piano. Of course, they would say, "No, Mum!"

But how easy it would be for the "friend" to pull you down from that piano to live the life of the not so good lifestyle! I think that the little "parable" got through to them.

Well, out of my archives of photos, I found these three that brought back to me the lessons I tried to teach the children when they were young.

Geordie had just got out of the river from having a swim and he saw Rebecca climbing up onto this massive rock in the park.

He loves Rebecca and I know he just wanted to climb up there so badly to be with Rebecca. She tried to help him but it was an impossible task to drag him up so finally, she just encouraged and encouraged him and he tried and tried....

Finally, he made it and was so happy to be with her on top of that rock!

Happy to be Together!

Have a wonderful Sunday!

Waiting for the Wind

2007-05-25T22:14:00.001-05:00

I liked seeing the seeds on this dandelion down in my garden. Seemed as if they were waiting for the wind to come and blow them all away.

Yellow Jacket in the Apple Tree

2007-05-24T22:59:00.001-05:00

Our bees are scarce this year so happy to see any flying insect helping to pollinate the apple trees.

Periwinkle Glory

2007-05-23T22:20:00.001-05:00

I really enjoy clematis. This one has very large blossoms.

It's apple blossom time!

2007-05-21T22:19:00.001-05:00

My trees are in full blossom now. Hopefully, the bees will come and pollinate the blossoms but we have a shortage this year.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

2007-05-21T00:02:00.000-05:00

This is a holiday weekend here in Canada. It's Queen Victoria's Birthday.

As children, we used to rhyme:

It's the 24th of May
And the Queen's Birthday
If we don't get a holiday,
We'll all run away!

So, off I drove to Niagara Falls and we visited the Niagara-on-the-Lake area just north of the falls, where we watched a lovely sunset.

Nice yellow goldfinches!

2007-05-18T22:45:00.001-05:00

They've finally changed their clothes!

I've been waiting for the day that the little goldfinches would change their coat colours from their winter avocado green shade to this nice bright golden yellow. I had a few of them on the bird feeders out on the deck today. Cute to see the little sunflower seed in its mouth.

Black and white of Mennonite girl

2007-05-18T10:46:00.000-05:00

What lovely weather we're having here in Guelph. Spent a little bit of time at my daughter's but what a very slow connection to the internet so did all my important little bits.

So thrilled to see three of the cafe members having mention in the latest Digital SLR User magazine and I'm off to Chapters Bookstore today to order my June copy!

Learning this new camera is also a steeper learning curve than I thought--just trying to remember the various settings to use. My eldest son came and said, "Wow!"

I posted last week a photo of a young girl taken at the St. Jacob's Farmer's Market and a few thought that they might like to see it in Black and White so here it is in Black and White.

INNOCENCE

Now, some are suggesting sepia!

What a strange creature!

2007-05-15T22:20:00.000-05:00

Geordie Meets Mr. Toad

After the rain, this toad came hopping along and everywhere it went, Geordie followed just like in the photo. He did this for about an hour.

It's raining! But I'd like to stay!

2007-05-15T15:19:00.000-05:00

Went up to Jack's grave and it was raining quite heavily but Geordie didn't want to get into the car to come home.

Lots of little goslings about now...

2007-05-13T23:21:00.000-05:00

Lots of these little fellows down at the park south of me.

Almost a Smile?

2007-05-11T15:10:00.000-05:00

I was at the market last week and was trying out my zoom lens.

Almost a smile? Just a candid shot from the market. This elderly man was sitting waiting for his family at the St. Jacobs Farmers Market and after I took this photo of him from a great distance, he proceeded to straighten his cap and his collar! Once a police officer--always a police officer! He didn't miss a thing! He was a delightful gentleman. I went over to chat with him later and he had a Police Assn. cap on and he was retired from the Police and is 92 years old!

Do you like the black & white version or the coloured?

Innocence

2007-05-07T22:05:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, a friend and I went to Canada's large farmer's market at St. Jacobs, Ontario. I was trying out my zoom lens and this photo of this young Mennonite girl was taken from across the parking lot. Folks were walking in front of me and this is the best capture I could make.

I think she's beautiful.

Eastern Redbud

2007-05-03T22:39:00.001-05:00

Oh, dear. More apologies!

This week, I've hardly been home. My friend is still in Hamilton and it's been an almost daily occurrence for me to drive her husband down to the hospital on that city and then by the time we get back to Guelph, it's so dark or so late that I just do my little chores and get into bed.

Hopefully, she will be being transferred to the Guelph Hospital very soon!

Before my husband passed away, he planted an Eastern Redbud bush on our front lawn. He never saw it bloom but each year since he died, it's bloomed. The buds are just starting to break out where the lovely mauve-pink blossoms will be and I snapped this one in the drizzle.

Watching the Birds

2007-04-28T21:50:00.000-05:00

Lauren is an indoor cat but loves it when I go out on the deck to do things and she sits in the open doorway just watching the birds. She doesn't venture much further.

This was taken today when the garden was full of blackbirds all squawking!

I love springtime!

2007-04-27T22:47:00.000-05:00

Yes, I love the springtime! My lawn is covered in these sweet little blooms. It's not time to cut the lawn yet for the first time but when it is, these little blossoms will be finished.

Red-Winged Blackbird

2007-04-27T00:05:00.000-05:00

I'm sorry for my absence but I've been travelling to Hamilton almost every day for nearly two weeks to the hospital there to take my friend's husband to see his wife. She's had very major surgery and now there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel but I'm one very weary "camper"! But I took this shot of a Red-Winged Blackbird that was visiting on my deck. I'm trying to get used to this new camera but my photography has sort of taken a back seat for awhile but hoping that things will turn around after May 1.

"Listen Up! This birdseed is MINE!"

Doing the Two-Step Polka

2007-04-20T23:06:00.000-05:00

On the way home from Hamilton, I stopped at the river and was giggling at the position of this goose!

Sunset over Guelph Lake tonight

2007-04-19T20:27:00.000-05:00

Tonight, I got home late from Hamilton so I thought I'd go out and try the camera on a sunset. Not the greatest yet but I'll keep practicing.

Lovely sunny day

2007-04-19T08:45:00.000-05:00

It was very sunny as we started our drive home to Guelph yesterday and I stopped to see if the swans were still nesting at LaSalle Park and they were really beautiful swimming around.

The sun was very, very bright and I tried not to have the whites blown out in the images. Not sure if I achieved this completely. Still getting used to my new camera.

Hamilton

2007-04-18T22:17:00.000-05:00

I tried to upload a photo but it wouldn't post.

I haven't had much time at my computer as I've been spending the days in Hamilton, Ontario with my friend, Judy. I'm sure that things will get back to normal very soon.

Spring is coming.....really!

2007-04-17T21:29:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's so lovely to see signs of spring. Even if the signs aren't as evident as in some places, it's great to see.

In Hamilton all day...

2007-04-16T22:51:00.000-05:00

Hi folks...

I've been in Hamilton most of the day in the hospital visiting my friend so no time to take photos. Her big operation didn't take place since they x-rayed on Saturday and found her LEFT hip (her good one) dislocated. So they fixed this in an hour and a half operation.

She's very discouraged as is her husband.

Maybe some photos tomorrow as I won't be going to Hamilton but will be going on Wednesday.

"This is my good side, thanks!"

2007-04-14T18:01:00.001-05:00

I had to go to Hamilton (south of Guelph) today to take my friend's husband to see my friend who has emergency surgery on Monday.

On the way home, I thought I'd have a peek to see if the geese and swans were nesting on Lake Ontario and never found this out but this sea gull didn't mind my taking his photo.

As well as trying to shake this crazy virus I've had since Jan. 9, I have my very close friend in the hospital in Hamilton, Ontario and will be spending a lot of time on the road driving her husband to see her and the surgery is on Monday so hopefully, I'll get to take some photos down there but if not, you'll know where I am.

Thanks everyone!

Last Year's Blossom

2007-04-12T21:44:00.000-05:00

Along the riverbank are many of these. I have no idea what the blossom was last year! But my eyes were drawn to it as I walked in Riverside Park along the Speed River.

A cute little friend

2007-04-11T20:59:00.000-05:00

As I sat in my car after walking along the river yesterday, this little fellow enjoyed some peanuts I threw out my car window.

A difficult day for my friend

2007-04-10T21:38:00.000-05:00

The telephone rang this morning at 7:30 am. The caller on the other end of the line was my good friend, Judy. We've been friends since the 1960's when we met after our little family returned to live in Canada from Northern Ireland.

Judy was a vibrant, energetic, exuberant gal and often was seen jogging and swinging her two little children around in play.

Now, her poor body is ravaged with reumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. She wanted to make sure that I was awake and ready to take her to Hamilton for her check up after her sixth hip surgery six weeks ago. I assured her that I was getting ready and would be at her hospital here in Guelph in time to get her to the Hamilton Hospital.

Getting her into the car was difficult necessitating my lifting her from the wheelchair due to the severe pain but we finally were on our way. The appointment, though, turned out to be a very sad one for Judy and her husband. The news was not good. Many tears were shed. Her hip operated on six weeks ago is doing wonderful but her right hip, her "good" one, is not doing well and in six weeks, the "cup" that was inserted into that hip has moved up 4 mm into her abdomen causing a "gap", etc.

So, emergency surgery will be done, yet again, in about two weeks on this poor body. He guarantees nothing and even says that during the surgery, he might have to remove her complete hip and she will be confined to her wheel chair the rest of her life. And yet without the surgery, that is what will be the outcome as well. So, she's opted for the surgery to take place and if you believe in prayer, please say a prayer for my good friend, Judy.

After getting her back to Guelph late afternoon, I, too, was saddened by this news and took a walk with Geordie along the Speed River here in Guelph to do some thinking and praying for my dear friend.

Reflections Along the Speed River

Lovely Easter Weekend...

2007-04-10T21:36:00.000-05:00

We had a GREEN Christmas and a WHITE Easter!

But the snow on Sunday didn't dampen our spirits at all as many of the family members gathered together to enjoy a huge meal together made by my eldest son.

Nice and clean now...

2007-04-07T22:38:00.000-05:00

MY BUDDY

When my grandson was here the other day with his Daddy, he invited me for Easter dinner and "please bring Geordie too, Grandma!"

So, today, he went next door to my neighbour who has the best grooming business in her home. I send Geordie over and he yips at her door.

When he's done, she sends him home and he yips on my door!

And all this, "NO CHARGE!" She says he's the best she does. He stands there and she says, "Now, your other paw needs clipping and nails cut!" so up goes the other paw.

So, tomorrow we'll head north-east of Guelph to Orangeville to where my son lives and enjoy Easter dinner and then head home.

BUT... there's a blizzard outside right now so we'll make our minds up tomorrow.

Good Friday

2007-04-06T19:20:00.000-05:00

Easter Lily

Since it's Good Friday, I thought that this might be a nice hymn to share:

Lily of the Valley
(Click to hear music)

I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys.
Song of Solomon 2:1
Words: Charles W. Fry, 1881; first appeared in the Salvation Army's The War Cry, December 29, 1881.Fry wrote the lyrics in Lincoln, England, while working with the Salvation Army there.

Music: William S. Hays; adapted by Charles W. Fry

I have found a friend in Jesus, He's everything to me,
He's the fairest of ten thousand to my soul;
The Lily of the Valley, in Him alone I see
All I need to cleanse and make me fully whole.
In sorrow He's my comfort, in trouble He's my stay;
He tells me every care on Him to roll.

Refrain
He's the Lily of the Valley,
the Bright and Morning Star,
He's the fairest of ten thousand to my soul.

He all my grief has taken, and all my sorrows borne;
In temptation He's my strong and mighty tower;
I have all for Him forsaken, and all my idols torn
From my heart and now He keeps me by His power.
Though all the world forsake me, and Satan tempt me sore,
Through Jesus I shall safely reach the goal.

Refrain

He will never, never leave me, nor yet forsake me here,
While I live by faith and do His blessed will;
A wall of fire about me, I've nothing now to fear,
From His manna He my hungry soul shall fill.
Then sweeping up to glory to see His blessed face,
Where the rivers of delight shall ever roll.

Refrain

Thursday, April 5

2007-04-06T18:41:00.000-05:00

I went shopping yesterday...

Yesterday I had "cabin fever" and decided to go and do a few errands and I thought that inside the supermarket looked pretty colourful. I patiently waited to get everyone out of the picture!

The Organic Food Section

"Grandma! I can count by tens!"

2007-04-04T23:04:00.000-05:00

"Grandma, may I show you that I can count by tens?" "Ten (and the fingers all go up and then down), twenty, thirty, forty, fifty..."

"...sixty, seventy, eighty, ninety..."

"ONE HUNDRED!!!"

"Grandma, did that make you a bit happier? I love you so-o-o much Grandma!"

How surprised I was this evening to hear a knock at the door and then find in the blowing snow, my son with little David standing at the door with take-out cups of hot chocolate. "Grandma! We brought a party for you!"

I so appreciated your comments and emails

2007-04-04T22:56:00.000-05:00

Yes, I really did appreciate your messages. I had many. I've been feeling "under the weather" with the tail-end of an awful virus which has really taken its toll on various parts of this body including my lungs and so have been ordered to complete bed-rest.

Then on top of that, my dear friend passed away as a result of brain cancer which then went right through her poor body so quickly. It really hit me hard. Fifty-one years of age is far too young! She has four lovely children from 12 to 19 and a very sad husband.

During the past week and a half, I also received a lovely gift from one of the members of the Photography Cafe all the way from England. Was chatting with this fellow about another matter and then about six hours later, a knock at my door and I was presented with this lovely gift of flowers. Aren't they beautiful?

Sorry, no photos...

2007-03-30T23:51:00.000-05:00

I've been "under the weather" for a couple of days as well as attending a funeral of a very close friend and so haven't been able to make any photos.

Hopefully with a weekend of rest and TLC, I will feel better at the beginning of the week.

Things are starting to melt!

2007-03-28T23:45:00.000-05:00

Just south of where I live used to be a large jail farm many years ago and now there are ponds and little creeks and streams all part of the Eramosa River.

Today when I was there, the geese are busy making their nests and the water in the little stream here is running very swiftly but the larger pond at the back is still frozen.

Won't be long now till spring!

Daffodils are planted!

2007-03-27T22:17:00.000-05:00

Geordie and I planted the Daffodils

It was such a lovely day today. Mice were coming out of their winter homes as were moles and the squirrels were so numerous--too numerous to count and it almost drove Geordie nuts! He was having such a great time chasing all of these!

Then he saw me walking from where I parked the car with the pot of daffodils and a little trowel and as soon as he noticed this, he ran right to the spot where his master lay and just laid down on the spot where I wanted to dig.

He watched as I made a little hole for the bulbs and kept on lying there.

Finally I got the little job done and Geordie had jumped up onto "his" bench and suddenly the expression on his face was, "Pat, I see a squirrel!" but this look was a wee bit different. So I turned around and a long distance away, all I saw was a tail wagging and I said, "Oh, it's another dog!" And with that, Geordie ran so quickly to the wagging tail.

I then heard some little playful growls and I turned around to find two dogs having such a great time together, most of the time on their back legs alone trying to knock the other one over.

The other dog's owners walked over to find out where their buddy had gone and they called, "Hey, Geordie! Come on boy!" and both my Geordie and their Geordie ran to the other couple!

Well, did I laugh! And so did Geordie! See his smile? He met another "Geordie" and they had so much fun together while we visited my Geordie's master's resting place!

Daffies!

2007-03-26T22:53:00.000-05:00

I bought a pot of daffodils to put on Jack's grave and I thought that the scene outside the other day was quite interesting to see behind the daffodils in my kitchen. The snow has gone now as we had a couple of huge thunder and lightening rain storms over night and during today.

I will go and plant them tomorrow on the grave I think.

Do you see the green, Ruth?

2007-03-25T22:47:00.000-05:00

MY THYME

Each time I go to Ruth's Garden blog, I'm so enthused viewing her pics of her little sprouting plants and then I've looked outside at our snow...and more snow and ice!

When I posted my photo of this thyme back in the winter, I wondered and wondered if it would survive our winter this year.

Well, Ruth, do you see the green?

What a busy weekend!

2007-03-25T22:32:00.000-05:00

I'm gradually getting used to having an older teen staying with me but this weekend was so different. Two of her friends came over and they decided at about 10 pm to dye each other's hair!

They were very careful with the dye and I only had to use a little bleach on my kitchen counter to erase the fuschia/hot pink colour from my beige counter!!

I did find some purple on an old towel and some green somewhere else but on the whole, they did a great job cleaning up.

I drew the line when they said, "Grandma, want yours done?"

Another shamrock

2007-03-23T17:45:00.000-05:00

WHITE SHAMROCK

This is a little plant that needs some TLC. The photo looks better large. Not nice the way it's made smaller with this software.

My Shamrock

2007-03-21T23:13:00.000-05:00

PINK SHAMROCK

I have a little shamrock plant that was bought by Jack the year before he passed away. I've never had any trouble getting it to bloom each year and I really like it as it's so different from my others that have only white blossoms.