YOU HAVE TO BE A CATERPILLAR

To become a butterfly. Life can be about transformations. To move forward we must let go of one part of our lives. Is it easy? Does it come with trepidation? Is change always for the better? Do we even like change? Do we have to like change? Can we help nurture those around us to help their journey forward? Like my backyard- I have many milkweed plants to help the journey of my little monarch butterflies. I help with one part of their journey. Sometimes I think about those who were part of my journey. Would they be happy, proud of who I am today? Fly away little butterfly- see the world!

NANA SAYS THE TODDLER YEAR IS BUSY

When the baby becomes a toddler, the household can be turned upside down. Every cupboard, drawer,area of the house is a place to explore. Safety is so paramount to make the environment safe.




It is also a magical time when your child's language development goes from a few words to sentences and the ability to talk with you. There are too many toys and books on the market to recommend so you can explore and bring into your home the needed external stimulation. However, the most important ingredients are the regular family members- parents, siblings, extended family to help with the emotional and social development- establishing those relationships are vital. Media bombards us with the need for learning, learning and flashcards so the child can read at an early age. Each child will read and do when ready. Different children gravitate to different things of interest. The toddler loves books with pictures and loves to point!Providing a loving, caring and stimulating environment will fodder those interests. Setting clear boundaries is important. Routines! Talking, reading, playing- yes playing! The old concept- less is more! You are a huge toy to your child! The balance for you to accomplish what needs to be done in household routines, work schedules and the time to be with your child takes discipline, commitment and lots of energy! Fortunately, the toddler year only lasts 12 months. But be prepared to be busy! Do you have a toddler in your life? What do you do with your little child? Are you having fun? Are you enjoying? In your busy day, remember to step back and enjoy! Tell me your stories!

A VISIT TO A MUSEUM

During my recent vacation week, I was able to visit some museums and historic sites. There are the big museums like the Royal Ontario Museum that attracts large crowds. In every community across the country, the small local museums offer insight to the community or have a theme. Pictured here are two views- one from the Anglers and Hunters Heritage Centre in Peterborough and the other from the Air and Space Museum in Northern Toronto. Small but full of information on their related topics. And not crowded! Both little museums had a personal attachment for me- thus the reason to visit. It also gives a possible opportunity to donate old things that linger in homes that other family members may not want. Regardless of age it is an opportunity to discover new information or revisit other times of your life.

For example, the Air Canada corner at the Air Museum showed a typical meal from the 60's on board a plane and compared to what one gets today! To think everyone used to complain about airplane food- a full meal with cutlery! The Heritage museum showcased the out of doors. Still a work in progress as many displays are not finished yet! Even the visitor centre at the Lift Lock in Peterborough had a display of the building of the Lock. In your travels across this country or your own country do you visit the local museums or art galleries? Do you ever donate items to them? Do you have a favourite place you like to see? Can you comment on a local venue you like to visit? Do you even like them?

TO PLAN OR NOT TO PLAN

Planning helps us stay focussed on what needs to be done. We all have calendars- whether manual or on the computer, daybooks, little notes, reminders! A vacation is a good thing to plan as the time flies and before you know it- back at work! Sometimes in our busy planned lives it is good to relax and see where the day will take us! Plan and organize a party but let the party have a life of its own is one example. Can you just follow the path and enjoy the experience? Let's hope it's not the yellow brick one with a bad witch to which we must contend!

A POSTCARD FROM THE OKANAGAN

Since our parents retired to the Okanagan in 1976, many family members have made trips and spent vacations there. They live in Westbank now called West Kelowna. During my trip there in 1989 with the girls, Adolph had to work in his businesses-summer was the busiest time- they were enthralled with the legend of Ogopogo. They were convinced they should see him! The famous lake monster whose legend came from earlier times is supposed to live in the lake. Many people claim they have seen him. Beaches, fruit, outdoor activities abound. Many vineyards throughout the valley make good wines. Visited Mission Hill once doing their wine tour with the folks! On one visit in June 1997 by myself, I sent a postcard to Adolph-" Hi Curly, Enjoying my visit- slower pace- reading, walking, eating etc. I'm taking care of my folks. Bought my Dad- Pesce Vino- wine in a fish bottle. He thought it was cute. We'll go out to dinner for Mom's Birthday. Love you, see you soon- Barb" It was Mom"s 75th birthday.

The Okanagan Lake is a long thin lake with many little communities along it- Kelowna is the larger one, Vernon, Peachland, Summerland, Penticton, Okanagan Falls, Oliver and Osoyoos- which is famous as it is very dry like a desert community!The mountains are a low range similar to the area around my husband's hometown of Cassino. The people are hospitable and cater to the tourists! Have you been to the Okanagan? Do you like the area? Do you believe in the legend of Ogopogo? Hey, wait I hear a splash in the water! Do you think it could be him?

If you would like your postcard featured here, email me at abdm@rogers.com and I will send you my address.

BOATING- A GREAT CANADIAN HOBBY

To live in Canada means at some point in your life you will travel in a boat, buy a boat or have good friends that let you ride in their boat. Sailing, canoeing, motor boating to name a few. If you live on an island, then a ferry boat is needed. I have taken the ferry to and from Vancouver Island several times in my life. In Toronto there is a ferry to Centre Island and another one to the Island Airport.

For some ownership of a yacht is quite prestigious. A floating home with all the perks. Any tourist place offers tours of the lake, harbour, fishing for a day. If you have a cottage, you have a boat. Camping holidays include canoes, kayaks, row boats. Much of my youth was spent in a canoe. First time I remember being in one, I was about three. I always loved the ability to float quietly on the water hoping to sneak up on some wildlife. Learnt to waterski on our family boat as a kid! Friends have a sailboat that Adolph and I were able to have a sail on a harbour near Georgian Bay. The only boat I
have had as an adult is a little dighy rubber boat I bought for the kids when we rented a cottage one summer. Served a purpose- the girls had fun with

their friends.
Most Canadians live near some water or waterway. We live near Lake Ontario to the south, Lake Simcoe to the north and the Trent-Severn waterway to the east. Of course the St. Lawrence connects the lake to eastern Canada. Travelling in Ontario brings us to one of the Great Lakes. On each coast, Canadians are connected to two oceans- the Atlantic and the Pacific! If you want to travel on the ocean, you need a big boat!

Even our motto is about water- mare usque mare- sea to sea. Do you love some water sports? Is your boat just for fishing? Do you find it pleasurable to have a boat? But remember to wear your life jacket! No matter how good a swimmer- it is a must! Remember all the rules of boating safety!

DOORS

A front door. Back door. Side door. Open the door. Close the door. Screen door. Garage door. Stained glass, wood, metal. Trap door. Pet door. Entrance. Exit. Who's knocking at the door? Hinged. Sliding. Wild West has saloon doors! Used to have door to door salesmen. Enjoy nature in the Great Out of Doors! City of Toronto has the annual Open Doors- gives visitors a chance to explore over 100 buildings! The 60's rock group- The Doors! In literature a door can symbolize a change. I entered a new door of life! The door was slammed in my face! Didn't answer the door so missed an opportunity. " I adore you!" Shut the door on your way out! Do you have a favourite door?