A QUIET PLACE TO THINK

We all need to quiet our energy and our thoughts periodically so we can think. So we can touch our inner feelings. And if we are lucky connect with our soul.

Whether a single bench in a pretty garden or by the water sharing our space with some water fowl, thinking can bring thoughts, images and ideas. I always take a little notebook or paper and pen. If artistic, sketching what you see can bring images. Camera in hand can record those images as well.

Even a long leisurely drive on our favourite country roads can inspire us. I like driving by the farmer's fields too.

If wanting to pray, of course, we can do it anywhere! Where do you go to quiet your energy? A church? A corner of your garden? On a drive? By the water? On top of your favourite hill?

JULY 2012 IMAGES

As July 2012 is winding down, I feel good. Many people say the summer is going too fast. I feel differently as I embraced the month- heat and all deciding to pack in as much as possible. Canada Day celebrations, some babysitting of the grandchildren, some fun day trips and an overnight to Kingston. I have photographed many images- some pictures better than others. I realize other than Canada Day ones- not of my grandchildren- hum! Perhaps August with family functions coming, it will be a month of family photos or maybe a combination of both. When Natasha took my memory cards to download to her computer, she asked me if I take pictures of everything! Pretty much! What is life without lots of photos! I have included many of my images in this blog as well as Adolph's blog- http://granpalovestocook.blogspot.com/ Maybe I need a new blog for me- Nana loves to take pictures! If you have time, my cousin Roy puts some amazing photos on Flickr photos website- pictures of nature as well as wonderful images in and around Winnipeg, Manitoba. Words are great but photos do speak loudly to us! Do you like to take pictures? Great memories are made.

A POSTCARD FROM A CANADIAN CHIPMUNK AND SQUIRREL

In reviewing my postcards from Ontario, it struck me how many depict the animals of the province. Each area of Canada has a wealth of wildlife that make their way to postcards and other souvenir memorabilia.
In 1963, when my sister, Marilee, had a summer job in her teens in Severn Falls, Ontario, she sent me a postcard with two squirrels that looked like they were talking to each other.

1963 Marilee wrote, " Dear, Barb; Have you spent your J.B. dollar yet? I'll bet you have it framed and upon your wall, eh? I have souvenirs from boys too so don't let them tease you. Someday I'll show you my collection of match boxes and tickets- junk but I still keep them anyway. It's fun. By the end of the summer I'll have loads of stuff to tell you. Not enough room here. As I told Rob, hope to see you next Friday. Write me soon, Lot's of Love, Mare."

Chipmunks and squirrels are in the wild as well as any city street. I have lots of squirrels in my backyard. The local chipmunks seem to be in the public parks nearby.

I wonder if the chipmunk knows how cute he is! Great now I have ideas to include other animals from across Canada.
If you want a postcard featured here, email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address so you can send me a postcard.

EARLY MORNING- A TIME TO REFLECT!

I love to arise before 6 a.m. every day. On weekends and vacation days, I go for my power walk early. The quiet on the street and few people and cars make it very enjoyable. There are even no people walking their dogs. On a recent trip to Kingston Ontario, our hotel was right on the water by the 1000 Island Cruise boats. On the second day, arising early, I took my camera and coffee in hand and was able to  photograph the clear, calm water capturing  some reflections.

Early morning is a good time to think. The reflections in the water reminded me of the many reflections I can make about aspects of my life.

Some of the reflections are clouded, some calm and some a little wavy like the ones in the photographs. When you reflect about your life how would you describe the reflections? Is morning the best time for you or are you a night owl liking the late night and dark to think?

LONDON'S OLYMPIC FEVER-GOOD LUCK FROM CANADA

As the London Olympics-2012 are about to begin today, we Canadians are reminded of our three times as hosts. Montreal-1976, Calgary-1988 and Vancouver-2010. The aftermath of hosting such an event can have such ripple effects for years to come. Like the Calgary ski hill that is used as a park and a training grounds for ski jumping and other sports. Those of us that could not attend the events can still visit after the fact as tourists.

So as memories are created over the next two weeks- here's to all our athletes, athletes of the world and London- have a blast!

END OF LIFE ISSUES

Once a month I present to the new group of nurses hired at the hospital- End of Life Issues. I give a clinical Social Work perspective along with the need to be part of the team who cares for our patients and supports our families. Looking at clinical strategies, needs, feelings, instrumental tasks (example-is there a will) and support of the team are a few of the areas I focus in my discussion. Case examples that are relative to the areas where the nurses may be working. If in the Woman and Child Program, a case or two involving a baby death. If ER, maybe a case I handled while covering for my colleague when she is on vacation or away. It is a tough presentation as it can trigger issues with the audience as well as being the last talk of the day. There are always one or two people fighting sleep who hear the whole presentation with their eyes shut and nodding. I use my photos to illustrate some points as my wholistic approach to treatment is presented as well. It is interesting too that I really do not use my own personal experiences as clinically I feel they do not belong there. It was one of the first tasks I had when returning from the week out west at my own mother's funeral. For me, there is always a case or two that I am supporting on one of the floors where a person or family is facing this dilemma. Along with realism, the need for hope is always allowed.

Why do you think I use a picture with a Monarch butterfly in my talk?

Or a picture with raindrops?

I always use this picture to end my talk. Sometimes the group will have comments and ideas but often just look with no participation. Lately I have been taking some photos that perhaps could be incorporated into the presentation. It is a tough area to present. It can trigger feelings. Any thoughts or ideas? Did it trigger anything with you and your loved ones?

NANA SAYS CHILDREN SAY SOME CUTE THINGS

Well as we all know, teenagers say things that are not so cute- swear, scarcasm, etc. When they were little, they did say some cute things. As I was pulling my two grandsons in the little wagon yesterday, I recalled the time I was pulling my granddaughter years ago. Around and around the garden! I was getting tired! Finally, I said, "Sophia, Nana sure is your Donkey! "She said, " No Nana, you are my Horsie!" We find our youngest grandson calling Adolph- Papa instead of Granpa very endearing! Like another Papa in the family who probably finds it warms his heart to be called the name! Even the speech development- our little grandson used a four word sentence-  I don't want to! Could have been five if he said do not! Listening to children and what they have to say, the questions they ask and what they remember means stopping and paying attention to them. We all know that is why it is important not to swear, do not talk about anyone or say something we do not want repeated! Do the children and grandchildren in your lives say some sweet things?

STREET SCULPTURE-IS IT ART OR JUST A PILE OF METAL?

Wherever I go, I look for images and well- art. During a recent trip to Toronto, I photographed this street sculpture.

Was it pieces of metal left over from a construction job and cheaper than going to the dump for the contractor? Does it conjure up any thoughts or ideas about life, relationships or the environment?
How does it compare to other street sculpture you have seen?

Like the big spider in front of the National Gallery in Ottawa Ontario- our captial! I love the size. In other countries there are huge pieces of art displayed in public places. Sometimes a major theme like a statue of a famous person is the centre of an area!

Here's Sir John Alexander Macdonald- the first Prime Minister of Canada,1867- in a park in Kingston Ontario! He actually had a huge long cobweb hanging from his nose to his hand. Does it tell us something about how people are old history? Can not say ancient about Sir John! Or are there just a lot of spiders making webs? What art and images do you see and like in your community?

CANADIAN CITY NEW-EUROPEAN CITY OLD

I love cities to visit and explore. As you know one of my favourite cities is Rome. In my youth I visited London England several times. What always impressed me was one street could have buildings and sculptures from many different periods in history. If we look closely at our own Canadian cities, we can find some contrasts as well.

Front Street where the St. Lawrence Market is located has this beautiful backdrop with the Gooderham Building in front with modern downtown skyscrapers behind. It is one of the most photographed building in Toronto. Modern cars and even a garbage truck let us know it is 2012!

Front Street is one of the first streets in Toronto with lots of history. The St Lawrence Market is housed in the old telegraph building that originated from the 1840s. Not old by European standards but considering many Canadian developers often tore down whole city blocks to put up their modern building, it is a testament to Canadians desiring to perserve their history while accomodating the new!

It works as every street does not need the tallest buildings or condos.

Row buildings typical of places like London but it is Toronto.

Thought the plaque would give a little history of the building for you to see. Front Street is a longer street across Toronto. Perhaps it deserves a little scrutiny from this writer with camera in hand. Even revisiting this area in the Fall when the trees are in full colour might bring some interesting photos and thoughts!  Have you explored your city and community lately? History ties us to our past, let's us enjoy our present and think about what to leave the future generations.
One street anywhere can reveal history but much more- stories about people!

A POSTCARD FROM MY CHILDREN FROM ROME ITALY

Both my girls had opportunities to visit Rome. I love Rome-have been there three times and would visit every year if I could afford it. There is so much to do and see. The atmosphere, the people, the food, the history, the art, the culture but you can keep the traffic!

Natasha went to Rome with her friend Ami the summer of 1995. Adolph's cousin Lillina kept them fed and housed as she always does in her very loving and hospitable way.

Natasha wrote- "Dear Mom, Dad and Sonya, Yo guys, whats up? I know you all miss me more than anything and I kinda miss you too. Anyway, Ami and I love Italy. It's so beauftiful and different, and I think I could get used to it here. I am picking up the language pretty fast but I am too embarrassed to speak it. Oh and Dad you were right, these Italians drive like crazy people. Sonya, you would love the clothes here, they are amazing. Love you Lots, Tasha XO"

In 2001, when Sonya was studying at the Luigi Boconi University in Milan, she visited a friend in Rome in November and sent us this card.
Sonya wrote-" Ciao Family! Nov 6/01 Ciao from Roma!- Roma is beautiful. I guess you all don't need convincing, though I've done a little bit of sight-seeing, but have mainly been enjoying the nightlife thus far. I've gone to see two shows at the Teatro Olympico( The Harlem Gospel Choir and Bolero- a Spanish ballet). Both were amazing. Joe has been a great host. It's nice to catch up with old friends. Tomorrow we will go shopping, and to see more sights. I've already been to the Trevi Fountain, the Colosseo, some ruins and the Spanish Steps. Only 6 weeks left in beautiful Italy. I'll definitely have to come back some day. I love you all very much and miss you tons. Love Son XOXO"

Just having a gelato or caffe in a piazza in the late afternoon is a fun experience. Every little side street has so many picture opportunities. Ciao bella Roma! Arriverderci!
If you want a postcard featured here, email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address so you can send me a postcard!

ANGER IS A STRONG EMOTION

We all become angry at something or someone sometime. Sometimes we fume inside and sometimes we yell or become irritable. Walking away from anger takes discipline. There are things that can trigger our emotions that can lead to anger. Some people are just angry all the time. Others take a long time to become upset. Anger can lead to road rage, abuse and other unsociable behaviours. Anger can also be a defense for sadness or grief! Look behind a person's anger to what else may be occurring! In my work, patient's families often present as angry. Understanding what might be happening often reveals they feel like a fish out of water when someone they love is sick or in the hospital. Sometimes they are just scared so they lash out! "Where's the doctor?" "The tea is cold!" Learning to manage our anger helps us stay civilized! We do not harm others. Are there times you wish you had contained your anger?

ACCEPTING OUR DIFFERENCES

People come in all shapes, sizes, cultural differences and religions. Everyone loves their family, has their own style of food and wants a a place to call home. Sometimes we can appear very different or fit into the group!
A person is  a person no matter how they appear!

THE CANADIAN LANDSCAPE

Can vary depending on which area of the country you are visiting. Here in Ontario with the Precambrian Shield and waterways, rock and trees are very common to see. A simple picture of a typical shoreline! What typical pictures do you have from your area of the world?

THE GRASS IS GREENER ON THE OTHER SIDE

Or in this case the trees! We have so many expressions in English that I often wonder who really said them first and when did they become a cliche! This picture could also have the caption- The Light at the end of the Tunnel! Or is it a walkway or a little road! Not a tunnel! If early morning, the thought that each day brings us from the dark into the light! It is darkest before the dawn! When you look at the picture, what do you see? Does it bring positive or negative thoughts? Seeing the trees and the water, do you walk through the "tunnel" to get a view from the other side? There is shade, do you want to get out of the sun? Or do you want to have a look then keep walking?

NANA SAYS GARDENING CAN BE FUN FOR CHILDREN

Having the grandchildren to our home can bring challenges. We have too much for them to resist. Buckles of water warming to use in the garden are magnets for the children to want to do- well water play. Turning the play into help such as- get your little watering cans and help granpa water the garden vegetable plants- tries to keep the involvement positive. Sometimes they just play and waste the water- hum! Instead of don't touch and leave it alone, we try to encourage the helping activities. Although I do hear, don't touch coming from my mouth often. And please don't pick Nana's flowers! The garden itself has so many learning opportunities. For example, the milk weed growing to allow the Monarch Butterflies to lay their eggs gives a little information on the natural wonders of the world. My granddaughter and I try to stay still so a butterfly will land on us. Of course, the sticks in the garden can be toys or weapons! Need to watch out for those dangerous items! We label the flowers that are changing in the perennial beds. We watch the squirrels and the birds. They are not quite at the - see how many weeds you can pull stage- perhaps next year? If they really enjoy the garden, I may have some real little garden assistants in training!

THE WAKE WE LEAVE IN THE WATER!

Do you ever notice the wake left by a passing boat? There's a line of sorts. Little waves or ripples are made that fan out. If you are in a canoe, you really notice as the ride becomes bumpy when that boat passes. Sometimes the waves go crashing to shore. The scenery in the distance diminishes as the boat approaches new shores. Being on a boat on the water forges up many images and thoughts. Sometimes we all are just along for the ride or the captain of the boat steering its course. A little vulnerable as the vastness can make us feel small. If the ride is smooth we feel safe but if a storm were to arise, it would be a longer swim to shore than imagined. Knowing where the life jackets are kept or like my ride beside the life preserver, well just in case. I could enjoy the ride but I am always a little safety conscious! What kind of wake have I left in my boat of life? Did I make it bumpy for those around me? Did I steer a calm course, close to shore keeping others safey in mind? Did I remember to enjoy the ride? I have been on various "boats"- a cruise ship, several ferry boats in various parts of the country, canoes,  rowboats,  motorboats, flotation devices like a rubber tube and a sailboat or two, to name a few! Each one a different experience! Being on the water is so much different than sitting on the shore enjoying the view!

BEATING THE HEAT WAVE

Despite some thunderstorms and rain, it is still very hot here in Southern Ontario. As is typical of Canadians, there are lots of complaints about the weather. "It's hot!" Hydrate, stay out of the sun and stay cool are the main pieces of advice! If you don't have an air conditioner but have a basement then go to the basement- it was how we stayed cool in the old days before universal air conditioners everywhere. Malls are air conditioned as are movie theatres so get out and stay cool at someone else's expense! I like the summer and don't mind the heat. Do you realize people spend thousands of dollars in the winter to go south so they can have hot weather and sit on the beach? So I can sweat without spending the money. The dog days of summer or the lazy hazy days of summer are an opportunity to be lazy because it is too hot to do too much. Sit and read! Do some slow simple handwork! Have a siesta! Heat waves do not last forever! Remember in 6 months time, we Canadians will be complaining- "it's so cold!" How are you coping with the heat?

A POSTCARD FROM THE 1000 ISLANDS

A recent jaunt took us to Kingston, Ontario and the 1000 Island cruise. Three hours from home, we arrived mid-morning so Adolph and I could could take the cruise since we could not check into our hotel until 3 p.m.

Our boat was the Island Belle which had two decks. We sat on the top deck so there was a panoramic view and of course, better for taking pictures! There was an audio tour guide with an impersonation of Sir John A. Macdonald our very first Canadian Prime Minister narrating. Why? Kingston was his home! I listened to most of it but sometimes tuned out just to enjoy the view. There is something about being on the water in a boat of any kind. There was a point on the cruise where Lake Ontario ended and the St. Lawrence Seaway began. Some of the land- several islands are deemed protected by the Canadian Government! I wonder who counted the islands! Are there really a 1000? From the boat we saw Fort Henry, Royal Military College, the Kingston Pen and part of Queen's University. If you take the longer cruise, you can visit the Boldt Castle on Heart Island!
There are lunch and dinner cruises- maybe next time! We saw other sites in Kingston and I even wrote a postcard or two to family members!
If you want a postcard featured here, email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address so you can send me a postcard!

CRAFT STORES ARE FULL OF POTENTIAL

My recent jaunt to a quilt store in Newmarket inspired me to get back to some small quilt and knitting projects. The store had quilt items, tons of material and a wool area. There was so much to see. I had to contain myself not to buy too much. As a normal crafter, I do have lots of supplies at home.

The selection of fabric covered every colour in great depth. I stuck to fat quarter packages with a selection of 8 different patterns in each packages. The wool section had a good variety from other countries and sources that one would not find in a Walmart or Zellers. Textures and colour combinations were fun to explore. I can use the coloured ones with some plain wool.

The Quilt store in Newmarket Ontario is worth another visit or two in the future. The drive on Leslie Street is a little bit country and little bit city.

What do you think of my buy?

There is something that soothes the soul when products inspire the imagination. What do you see? I see a potential baby blanket or two, scarves, hats and even a winter sweater for me!

A CHANGE IS AS GOOD AS A REST!

Time away from any normal routine sheds some light on life. A week's vacation, a weekend, dinner out or going to a new park for a long walk can give a refreshing new outlook on life. Routines are good as they allow us to get many mundane activities accomplished. But being stuck in a routine stifles creativity and can make life boring! Little changes- like rhubarb-ginger ice cream on a recent road trip! Goat cheese appetizer for part of my dinner! Trying a new farmer's market! Babysitting the grandchildren over dinner rather than first thing on a Saturday morning! What changes have you tried lately? Do you own your routines or they own you?

NANA SAYS IT IS FUN TO REMEMBER SUMMERS PAST

I remember taking my girls to many local attractions yearly. They loved Canada's Wonderland which they could go alone when they were older. A season's pass was an annual purchase! I loved the Toronto Zoo so we would go at least once and even twice some years. The Black Creek Pioneer Village with its horse and wagon ride was fun. Local beaches like Lake Wilcox and the local pool consolidated winter swimming lessons. A few trips to Centre Island in Toronto with their father in tow was a fun day. Ontario Place had several visits from us. If invited, an overnight at a friend's cottage. One summer I took the girls and one friend each to a rental summer townhouse on Lake Simcoe for a week. Adolph came up during the week and Sundays! It was a blast! Another summer-1989- I took the girls west to see the folks in Westbank, BC. They had a fun visit with their cousins as well. With Adolph's busy summer schedule, the day trips were just me and the girls. Of course, when I first started genealogy, many trips to local museums and cemeteries searching for our roots! I would pay the girls a loonie even if they did not find a family name! I enjoyed the day trips but not the fighting in the car and "are we there yet?" What about you? What trips have you done so far? Are there favourite places you visit every year?

AN ANNIVERSARY WORDLE

Wordles are fun so I created one to celebrate two years of blogging.

So what do you think?

SECOND ANNIVERSARY OF BLOGGING

Well over 700 plus posts and a readership that has touched all the earth's continents, I am proud to say blogging has become part of my life. Some regular readers such as Roy, Amy, Edna, Heather and other family and friends in Canada, United States and Italy are thanked for their loyalty. Especially Roy for his interesting and sometimes funny comments. To you in Russia who read daily, let me know who you are so I can thank you for your attention. My weekly visitor from Germany, comment sometimes. If you do follow me, then why not become a follower so I know who you are. Perhaps, you can suggest some themes. Those who read regularly know I have some recurring ones- A postcard from, Nana Says, Canadiana, history,whimsical, clinical, garden and flowers, crafts and sometimes whatever strikes my mood of the day. I plan outings to find and photograph pictures for the blog. Of course, not every photo is amazing but it does help to tell a story. Since I love symbolism, look for another meaning in some of the photos I chose. I really hope you enjoy reading the posts. My choice to try to post every day can be challenging. In order to write and write well, it is vital to commit to writing. With my dictionary and thesaurus handy and lots of photographs, I venture every day to try to commit words to post! With well over 13,000 pageviews I know I am reaching someone! I also assist Adolph with his blog- http://granpalovestocook.blogspot.com/  The photographs and typing are mine- the food and recipes are his very own creations. The sarcasm belongs to him! Perhaps his blog will venture into a family cookbook! Mostly I have found a very creative side to me that I love to share. With my work and life experiences, I have knowledge and expertise to communicate to others! I can also learn from others' reactions to my posts! Feel free to comment. If you are unable to post a comment, then email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will transcribe the comment to my post. So what will another year bring? Will I think of some new recurring themes? Do you have suggestions for me? Again thanks for visiting and do come again!

CANADA'S PART IN THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD

Did you know July 9th is a significant day in history? July 9, 1793, Lt. Governor John Graves Simcoe helped push a royal assent that allowed a colonial act to limit slavery in Upper Canada- The Upper Canadian Act Against Slavery. It helped open the door for black people from the United States and those living in Canada to live as free men and women. By 1833, slavery was abolished in the British Empire. In the 1840s, the Underground Railroad or the "Freedom Trail" was established to assist slaves to go the Northern states or Canada from the Southern American states. People risked their lives to help those on the road to freedom. Ontario history is rich with the subject. There is so much to say about it. I would recommend doing your own research to learn about this important piece of Canadian history. Settlements occurred throughout the province. For example, near Barrie Ontario in Oro Township there is a plaque and remembrance to a small settlement and a church where an original group of 40 "coloured" families settled in 1847. Parks Canada has deemed several sites throughout Canada honouring this community. I would surmise few Canadians really recognize what an important day this is. Did you know about this day? Well, now you do!

A DAY AT A CANADIAN FLEA MARKET-COURTICE FLEA MARKET

When I was younger and decorating my house, flea markets were a potential place to find little odds and ends for a home. Then for some reason, probably because I had a house full of stuff, I stopped going to them. They had changed too. A lot of markets sell cheap dollar store like items. The Courtice Flea Market in Courtice Ontario- east of Toronto, close to Oshawa- is really an old fashioned market. Tables with lots of things, old tools and furniture a little dented make for a fun time to look and see if there is anything to add to a collection or two.

For example, if you collect any old Coca-Cola items, there are plenty of interesting finds. I've decided to be good and limit any purchases to very small items- like a salt and pepper shaker set. Some old Disney videos for the grandchildren were a good buy. I have one of those units that allows for videos and DVDs so the quality of the tape is not the issue. If the children watch them a few times then I have my money's worth and perhaps can resell at a future garage sale or two.

The people who have a regular booth earn a living. Like the two ladies that own this little area. The lady in purple is an avid knitter so was selling some of her crafts too.
Courtice also has significant family history connection. On my mother's side, our Witheridge roots come from the area. At the cemetery at the Ebenezer United Church, down the road from the Flea Market, the older section has many of our ancestors buried there.
The little day trips touch my soul in many ways. Do you go to Flea Markets? What are your favourite day trip locations? Do you revisit places on a regular basis?

A POSTCARD FROM GREECE

My folks received lots of postcards over the years from friends and relatives. One of the couples they knew well travelled often. Here is their postcard from Greece.

"April 25. Dear Maisie and Elly, The time passes so quickly since we go ashore almost every day. We have enjoyed our visits to Athens, Crete, Rhodes, Patmos and Istanbul. There has been a great deal of walking and we both have tender feet. But it is worth the effort. The ship is small and no "love boat" but the food is satisfactory. The weather good all the time, lots of sun and smooth sea. Love Kathryn and Jack"
It is impossible to read the year but probably the 1980's or 1990's as Kathryn died before Jack . They were the same age as my folks so stopped travelling much when their health changed.
Jack was an engineer and had worked not only in Canada in the Mines but in Africa. He was very bright. Kathryn had been a teacher. Mom always seemed a little envious that she had her own teacher's pension. Interesting as many women in that age group relied on their spouse and like my Mom were encouraged not to work. So Kathryn was her own woman with a pension to be able to travel.
If you want a postcard featured here, email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address so you can send me a postcard.

THE CANADIAN BARN

Country drives along rural roads or major highways in Ontario reveal the farms that bring us our food. Of course, similar drives in any province would bring us to many farms and the people who work and live in the farming industry. For some reason I have always loved the architecture of barns. They are featured in movies, stories and some of us may have visited a farm or two in our lives and have the experience of being in a barn. In my childhood, my siblings and I used to spend some time on a family farm in Coldwater, Ontario.

Of course, modern barns are fully automated with electricity and other necessary equipment to be operational, productive and fiscally solvent for the farmer or company that owns them.

Perhaps on my country jaunts I will try to find some other barns to photograph. What do you see when you look at the picture above? Does it tell a story with the barn, country farm house and the Canadian flag in the background? Do you wonder who lives there? Why did they chose this life? Would it be a life you would want? Do you have your own story about a barn?

CAN PEOPLE BE LIKE SUPERHEROES?

Superheroes in movies, toys and birthday party themes are as popular with the current generation as they were with people in other generations. Why do we like superheroes? What is it about Superman or Batman or Spiderman that touches our spirit? In history and other cultues the Greek Gods or Roman Gods or in Norse mythology of the Vikings- the all had their Superheroes! We like the idea of heroes- someone who does good and saves others! Yet most people performing an heroic act will be very humble usually saying they just did what was right! Very few people expect recognition or a medal! Does the concept take us from the ordinary and the boring aspects of our lives? Gives us a thrill! If you could be a superhero or a Greek God or a Viking Chief, who would you be? How about Artemis- Goddess of the Hunt?

NANA SAYS SIBLINGS ARE DIFFERENT AND NEED TO BE RESPECTED

I have often heard parents say- my children will not have any sibling rivalry! Well read the Bible and the story of Cain and Abel. It is always difficult for children to share their parents and grandparents' love and attention. Quite frankly I find the fighting, whining and other nonsense with sibling rivalry to be very boring and it sure is a way to get your buttons pushed! Yes children need to cooperate and learn to share the world. Regardless of how many positive or negative messages there are to deal with the matter, one of the best solutions is to separate the children to age appropriate activities. Some of my best time with my own children and my grandchildren is being able to have them one child at a time. Then it is quality time and not trying to diffuse situations. Meaningful little conversations occur, can read a story or play at something fun- like blowing bubbles and letting the little one catch them. Sure there are many times all the children must be together. Even now individual time with my adult children is good. I think my girls like it- to talk to Mom without anyone else. Sibling rivalry will always be with us but I still am trying to find creative ways to enjoy moments with people in my life. Do you have special techniques? What do you use? Remember like Cain and Abel, not everyone in your life may get over their sibling hate and may end their childhood not friends as adults!

THE CANADIAN SUMMER VEGETABLE GARDEN

With the arrival of July, the vegetable garden continues to produce food for the table. Lettuce, beans, and a first little cucumber make the concept of self sufficiency feel good. One little plot can produce lots of food. Here in Ontario and especially Toronto, there are small garden plots. Some High Rise buildings open up garden plots for their tenants to have their own hand at growing some summer bounty. By toiling the soil and weeding and watering the garden responds. The vegetable garden is the work of my husband Adolph. World wide there are opportunities for people to maintain independence by providing some of their own food. Supporting our local farmers whether it is fruit, vegetables, honey or eggs, we all can have a part in sustaining the earth and using the resources wisely. We compose and use the broken down matter in the garden and flower beds. Back to our little plot and the minimal amount of work needed. Unlike the farmers, no $100,000 plus farm equipment- just some simple tools and lots of elbow grease!

Do you see any cucumbers yet? For a couple of months, fresh picked food from the garden or a local farmer's market sure make the summer months enjoyable!

IT WAS A DARK AND STORMY NIGHT....

 Is often a line in a murder mystery or even an Edgar Allen Poe story or two. Years ago it was fodder for a writing contest. Everyone was to start their story with the line. So yesterday I saw a crow and it cawed! For many cultures seeing and hearing a crow caw can have symbolic meaning. Also if you are a farmer you may have a flock of crows that hang out and hear cawing all the time. Sometimes crows are just noisy pesty birds. But what if we had a contest- the crow cawed and make a story out of it or a poem or perhaps just think about it! Or we could have it was a dark and stormy night and we heard the crow caw! Sometimes on  my walks I have very interesting reflective thoughts or sometimes not so interesting! I am not sure which category this would be! Do you?

CANADA DAY 2012

Canadian Flags can be found everywhere. The red maple is such a symbol of Canadian culture.

We are celebrating 145 as a Nation even though the territories and provinces that make up Canada have been here since time began. What does it mean to be Canadian? As a sixth generation Canadian, it is my nationality. I have roots- English, Irish, Palentine German and way back Celtic. But Canada is what makes me so proud to be Canadian. A land of diversity, democracy, opportunities for higher education, a great health care system and protection by law of our vulnerable and weak are just some of the reasons we are a world class country. We do not mind having Americans as neighbours as our two nations have lived in peace and harmony except for that little glitch with The War of 1812! Could not want a better neighbour! It is on my bucket list to visit all my country's provinces and territorities. From coast to coast to coast- remember we do have 3- not land locked! We are not the largest nation- just number two but we do have the biggest, compassionate heart in the world! Happy Canada Day! Buon Fete Canada!