The Room to Grow

Happy!

2012-01-10T14:34:00.000-08:00

I am so excited! Just 10 days into January and I'm ready to garden!

There is nothing quite like the feel of slipping into well worn overalls

and a pair of rubber boots, I can't get into them fast enough!

It's absolutely silly how happy this makes me, but it just does. The ground is damp and cold and so is the air, yet the Day Lily shoots are already poking up through the winter mulch. First thing on my list is getting the Pyracantha Bush trimmed back... in the Spring it's red berries will be turning into lovely little white blossoms... isn't it wonderful!?!

It's Just a Matter of Time

2011-11-08T07:24:00.000-08:00

Time is precious.

It takes time to go... and it takes time to stop...

and there is wisdom in proceeding with care in both.

This weekend we spent some precious time in our going,

and in our stopping.

We happened upon a boardwalk bench...

...and I loved the inscription.

So we took a seat, and enjoyed the view...

and one another.

And all it took,

was just a matter of time...

with love,

A New Beauty...

2011-11-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

I'm a happy girl when I'm mucking about in the garden.

Tending to all aspects of it always brings balance to my life and teaches me a great deal.

It is so freeing to slog around in old clothes, getting the dew of the morning all over you and the dirt of the earth worked into your hands.

It takes effort to maintain a garden, neglect will always show itself quickly and while you can have someone do it for you... I find a deeper blessing in actually being a part of the garden through not only enjoyment, but contribution and tender care as well.

This morning the colours were glorious as many of the plants are leaving this season of their life with a spectacular last showing of the best that they have to offer...

Some have messages to convey...

individual flowers are finding that they are blessed in their latter days more than their beginning;

some are already pointing to better days ahead by producing the buds of promise yet to come.

There is a tendency in life to want to hurry through the very passages that can teach us so much.

There are some plants in the garden that just quietly seem to begin to fade.
Each day they become less vibrant, less visually appealing, more likely to be quickly swept away so as not to mar the beauty of the rest of the garden.

But there is such wonderful Beauty here!... and they also have a message to convey.
In the vulnerability of their fading outward appearance
a new Beauty emerges...
it's one that speaks of going deeper than outward appearances,
it's a Beauty that bids us to look a little closer at the intricacy of the inner life that willingly and joyfully gave so much to the Beauty of the garden.
A life spent in the service of not only contributing Beauty, but offering refreshment to those that would take the time and spend it in the midst of a garden.

With love,

Vintage Finds

2011-10-12T16:13:00.000-07:00

I found a really good find at the vintage store a few weeks ago.

Wooden frames!

They were priced at $1.50 each and it was half price day...
for 75 cents each I couldn't resist.

So yesterday I dismantled them...

then cut some canvas and a lovely soft cotton lace material,
as well as some batting

and began to reassemble them.

It was a quick little project.

I also found a fantastic mirror at the same vintage store,

and now the little frames hang on either side over our bed.

The perfect place to pin little notes to my husband!

The bedding will be getting a bit of a pre-winter update as well...

and it all begins with this fabulous Double Ruffle Pocket Pillow,

with my favourite book and reading glasses tucked discretely into the back!

Quick and easy,
and so much fun!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-10-11T15:35:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely Thanksgiving Dinner at our son and daughter-in-law's home this past weekend.

Apart from the Giving of Thanks...

food always seems to take centre stage.

Great Gramma GG, Grreat Gramma Cawker and Gramma Devlin

all made their sweet contributions!

A certain little Miss seemed to be in her element...

and the pleasures of family and good food were not lost on any of the bigger kids either!

Some of the Gramma's get time to chat...

Great Grampa Cawker oversees it all.

This picture just cracks me up!

It looks like I've just polished off the entire turkey,

and left only the broccoli on my plate.

Not to mention the inference of the wine glass!

The glass is mine and full of sparkling water,

and the turkey was gobbled up by others as I enjoyed a beautiful vegetable plate!

I passed on dessert,

but it did not pass on me.

It's the new look for Spring 2012...

Lemon Meringue accessories for sandals!

Hope you had a wonderful Thanks Giving Day!

love,

She Loves You Yeah, Yeah, Yeah

2011-09-02T10:45:00.000-07:00

It was raining.

So we made two kinds of cookies...
spent a few hours outside under the covered deck playing Scrabble, Dominos, making up stories,
having lunch with Poppa and reading books under the quilt.

Then we dressed up like princesses and twirled while we danced to Kids Stuff Music.

Then it was time for a nap...

and perhaps a few Beatle songs...

And as good as Life is, once the realization of why her granddaughter was not napping dawned, she promptly settled herself down (Gramma) and guess who was fast asleep in under 10 minutes (Makenna)... Gramma is learning too!

New Shoes

2011-07-27T14:03:00.000-07:00

As the campfire began to dwindle and the evening drew to a close, it made me smile to see that amid all the sandals, runners, hiking boots and flip-flops at the cabin this year, there was a new pair tucked in among the group... thank you Lord... we are blessed.

A Private Moment

2011-06-26T19:51:00.000-07:00

My granddaughter had something important to tell me.

So she pulled up her little chair as close as she could and began to share her heart.

Her Papa tried to capture the moment through the screen door.

Then decided to open the door and take another picture.

Apparently, this was meant to be a private moment!

The door must remain closed... screen or no screen.

And what was it that this Little Miss needed to tell her Gramma?

"Gramma.... you must never, never, never, ne-ver........

(thinking hard at this point)

.... stand next to a bear!"

And you know what?

She's right!

A Morning Walk in the Garden

2011-06-12T15:23:00.000-07:00

The Road Less Traveled...

2011-06-07T15:15:00.000-07:00

My husband and I went on a mid-evening ride a few evenings ago.

I love when we are together.

I even love how our bikes look together!

Scott and I have always seemed to enjoy pursuing

The Road Less Traveled...

... so I was wondering why he was doubling back on me -

until I saw what had come around the corner!

Guess the tractor guy was taking the scenic route home!

The wildlife is always breath-taking...

and I'm always amazed at the beauty found in a natural...

and wild garden!

We came across the evidence of a horse event
that had just recently been held.

As we rode into the yard of the Riding Centre -

we met a woman who had just competed and we were able to view some of the horses.

There is nothing so wonderful as the smell of horses and their stalls!

I used to play on this land when I was a young girl.

The house of my friend has now become a pub;

the horse stalls that used to house the Palomino's of Chief Dan George

are now home to event participants;

and the barns that we played in,

and that were home to hundreds of hay-bale cats...

well, I'm thinking their descendants are probably still catching mice in them!

As we continued on our ride,

we found more evidence... of horses!

My Home Girls will totally get this,
when I say, that I can see a spiritual lesson in this picture.

Sometimes in life, we don't always have the luxury of being able to stop for a moment to unload;
sometimes we just have to keep moving forward -
and unload as we go!
And it's knowing Where to unload that's important!

Listen, I'm just sayin'...!

We came across a film being made.

This was the same location that,

many years ago,

Scott and Daniel met Christopher Reeve

when he was filming here...

I remember Daniel was really taken with how blue his eyes were!

As the sun began to set,

we headed back to the truck to load up our bikes.

I realized a long time ago that it's the simple things in life that hold True Beauty and Contentment for me.

An evening bike ride with my husband fills my heart far more than any planned resort holiday.

Who needs more than what can be found...

right where we are, right now.

Beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder,

all we have to do... is look...
Contentment is sure to follow.

Girls Who Stare at Goats...

2011-06-03T21:06:00.000-07:00

George Clooney may have starred in a movie by the name of 'Men Who Stare at Goats', but those guys have nothing on us girls!

Girls Rock!

Something Old and Something New

2011-04-30T18:11:00.000-07:00

While out vintage shopping a few weeks ago, I came across this little cabinet. I was taken with the shape and size and immediately thought that it would be perfect for our hallway... it was such a good deal that I couldn't refuse!

Scott is the painter in the family and he was kind enough to prime and paint this little gem for me. Even though I had originally envisioned it in the hall with a little lamp on it, by the time that it was ready to be placed, I already knew that I had found another home for it!

It mirrors perfectly the larger pieces in the room, anchors the bed the way a wooden footboard would do and yet takes up surprisingly very little space and has ample storage... I'm delighted!

I get such enjoyment from taking something old and breathing new life into it. This little piece has found a new home and will happily accommodate flickering evening candles, a breakfast tray on a lazy weekend or fresh flowers from the garden throughout the summer. I couldn't be more pleased!

Sharing in The Garden

2011-04-19T09:16:00.000-07:00

Gramma and Makenna took advantage of the lovely sunshine

and spent some time together in Gramma's Garden.

After a morning of baking cookies,
walking to the play park,
sliding on slides and swinging on swings,
we walked backed to Gramma's House to spend time in the Garden.

We played tag

and rolled around on the ground giggling,

we snuggled up under the blanket and whispered

as the little birds flitted around us looking for worms,

we put together a picnic and enjoyed our snacks in the warmth of the Sun.

The new buds in the garden are beginning to unfurl,

so together we cleared away the Old,

in order to make room for the New.

Already there are full blooms in Gramma's Garden,

Beauty everywhere we turn.

We shared our day, giving no thought to time,

we shared our hearts, giving no thought to restraint...

It's good to share.

The Very Best Part...

2011-04-13T10:29:00.000-07:00

Home is where the heart is...

but it sure is nice to go out and have someone else do the cookin' every now and then!

This past Monday,

after a few phone calls and texts back and forth,

we all piled into our cars and made our way to Burnaby Mountain for dinner.

We had actually attempted this same trek in January.

Only then it was my 'significant' birthday and our destination was to be my surprise.

It turned out that the destination was not so much the surprise,

as the actual journey was!

Makenna and I had been chatting pleasantly in the backseat.

I briefly turned my head for just a moment to look at the lights on the river,

when I heard a little noise from Makenna and happily turned to look at her...

just in time to see her projectile vomit with a force that amazed me.

I was stunned... and then she did it again!

It was dark and pouring rain,

my son managed to pulled the car over to the side of the road,

the ditch side doors were flung open.

Makenna's clothes were quickly changed,

and attempts were made to clean up the mess.

'IT' was all over my purse and shoes,

and the car interior just reeked!

Phone calls were made,

plans adjusted,

and as we headed home,

with the windows rolled down,

Makenna serenaded us with "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star".

It turned out to be a great birthday!

While the kids cleaned out the car and hung the mats and car seat in their tub to drip dry,

dinner was ordered in.

We played an interactive boxing game that hooks up to the TV...

Makenna and I found lots of things to play with in her Toy Box...

I was given a rousing chorus of "Happy Birthday"

and some really wonderful gifts,

AND a big champagne glass full of blueberries for dessert!

But the very best part...
was that I was surrounded with my family,

and my cup ranneth over!

So this past Monday we once again piled into the cars,

and headed off to Burnaby Mountain!

Look at these two girls...

like two peas in a pod!

Makes me smile....

While Amanda's spoon is already to dig in,

Adam better play a quick game of catch-up!

A happy girl with her ice-cream!

A happy girl with her man!

After dinner we all went for a stroll...

and it was freez--zz--ing!

Uncle Dan took to the heights...

Makenna stayed on Terra Firma!

I love this picture that Daniel took before we left,

it's a little gathering of Forget-Me-Nots...

at least that's what I've always called them...

I smile to think that every day with my family,

brings another gathering of memories,

that I will always cherish in my heart...
my very own little gathering of Forget-Me-Nots.

...One Very Contented Woman

Meet Meg!

2011-04-04T15:13:00.000-07:00

There has recently been a new addition into our family... my very own brand new bike!

She is still awaiting her new name. Although the name 'Meg' is in the running, I have to admit that while out for a short spin with my friend Linda, who also is the proud owner of her own new bike, I suggested the name 'Spoke', for obvious reasons, but also because she makes such a lovely, soft puttering sound when she moves... Spoke speaks to me!

The reason I'm partial to the name 'Meg' is because it is the name of my Great Aunt on my father's side.

Aunt Meg was sliding down play park slides, turning summer salts on the living room floor and getting herself involved in snowball fights in her eighties!... she enjoyed the outdoors and somehow I think that she would have enjoyed the fun of bicyclng as well.

I've always felt a connection with my Great Aunt, yet, the older I get the more I realize how much my Aunt Meg and I are similar in our sense of fun and play. No sooner had Linda and I set off on our maiden voyage with our new bikes, than I was cruising 'hands free'... it was fabulous! I think I scared Linda half to death... she reminded me that both my son and husband's last words to me were 'be careful'... honestly, I thought they meant watch out for traffic, it never occurred to me that they could be talking about me being careful of my own self!

I was just thinking how this was supposed to be about my new bike and how it has now become sweet thoughts of my Aunt Meg... but perhaps that means that this is really about them both... looks like my new bike is... Meg!

My Aunt Meg emigrated from Scotland as a young woman and married later in life. She and her husband had a lovely, small farm in Langley and although they never had any children of their own, apparently when I was born, my Great Uncle declared, "Why, she looks just like our Meg!" This declaration has always delighted me, I wonder if he would see any similarities today.

I love the above picture of my Aunt Meg with her cow... the cow looks full of trepidation, and Meg of quiet confidence... I have no doubts that if it came down to the cow or Meg... Meg would be the victor!

Meg is on the far right

My Great Aunt loved to bake and was also very social.

This is a picture of her Langley Garden Club, what a group of characters!

But this is the picture that just tickles me!

There she is on the far left fiddling away with her camera when she should have been paying more attention... I totally get it!

(Notice how she's distracting others as well with her antics!)

One of my favourite pictures of Great Aunt Meg is this one taken when she was walking about in her field on the farm. It looks to be a beautiful summer day, the breeze is ruffling her dress and causing her hair to wisp gently off her face... she looks content and fulfilled.
Her great niece walks in this particular blessing as well.

The first Bible I ever read belonged to my Aunt Meg,

she had carried it over with her on the ship from Scotland as a young girl, and within it's pages I found she had written these words,

"Thou who hast given me eyes to see,

and love this sight so fair,

Give me a heart to search out Thee,

and find Thee everywhere."

And so, as I begin my new cycling adventures... Meg goes with me!

And I am sure that we will indeed... "find Him everywhere!"

Here's another really neat thing...

this is an Africabike designed by Kona for the Bike Town project -

this means that $100 from the sale goes towards getting these same bicycles into the hands of health care workers in Africa so that they can deliver antiretroviral drugs to HIV suffers in the remote, outlying villages where other vehicles have no access. So far, over 3,000 bikes have been shipped.

I think Meg would be pleased...

A Brand New Month and Piggy-Tails...

2011-03-01T07:46:00.000-08:00

What a lovely wee, cheery face to greet me on this,

the first day of March!

It has taken 2 full years to grow those Piggy-Tails,

and well worth the wait I'd say!

Blessed Be Your Name...

2011-02-19T08:30:00.000-08:00

It is with great difficulty and profound sadness that I send this message to each of you. Our beautiful twin granddaughters, Kinley Elizabeth and Faith Ann, were prematurely born on Thursday, February 17th. Scott and I are taking this time to be with our children, granddaughter Makenna... and each other.

Scott and I, along with Adam, Amanda and Daniel, thank you all so much for your prayers, phone calls and e-mails.

We thank you for the joy that each of you expressed at the initial news of these two precious little girls... they will always be our babies of joy as they brought everyone nothing but happiness from the moment that we heard of them.

Blessed be Your Name
When the sun is shining down on me
When the world is all that it should be
Blessed be Your Name

Blessed be Your Name
In the way marked with suffering
When there is pain in the offering
Blessed be Your Name

Cathie

Room To Grow... Indeed!

2010-12-30T12:40:00.000-08:00

On November 11th (Remembrance Day) we were given the joyous news that Adam and Amanda were expecting a new baby... on December 30th we were given the added joyous news that Adam and Amanda were in actuality - expecting TWINS!

Our cup runneth over with joy, and laughter seems to be the expression of our hearts as we try and take this wonder in!

A little game of 'peek-a-boo' was played on December 30th,

and some pictures were taken

of these two precious little ones...

This is sweet little Baby A...

and this is sweet little Baby B...

and these are the two of them...
all warm and cuddly,

being knit together by God,

in their mother's womb.

I find myself these days being quite quiet... just trying to soak it all in... and giggling sporadically!
Scott just slaps his forehead and roars with laughter whenever a Pampers or Huggies commercial comes on!

Christmas Village Treat

2010-12-21T07:59:00.001-08:00

I had the best treat ever... an evening out with my husband to a Christmas Village Museum! I was going to post loads of pictures, but as it is only 4 more sleeps until Christmas, I just don't have the time that it takes to get all the pictures uploaded - but I can quickly share a few!

I just loved the Old Schoolhouse... I could have honestly stayed here for the rest of the night! It smelled just like my old one room school house when I was young - I know that I'm not that old, but I still remember my wet, red woollen stockings hanging over the black stove pipe, getting dry while I worked away on my printing at my desk.

After the curator had finished speaking, I asked her if I would be able to step over the rope and actually sit at the teachers desk. She asked if I was a teacher, and when I said that I taught inductive Bible study, she motioned me towards the desk to sit down, then slowly opened the drawer and took out the Bible and laid it on the desk in front of me saying wistfully, "Teachers used to always begin each school day with Bible reading and prayer... "

We saw so many lovely places, the Bakery and the Ice Cream Parlour; the Barber Shop and The Old Theatre; The Old House done up for Christmas and the old Tram Car. We heard carols coming from the Village Church and made our way there - Scott and I entered in together, then quietly he left and I was able to spend a few moments in worship, in this lovely, simple place.

As we walked through the village, it was the Carousel that next caught my husband's eye!

Although, judging by this picture, he may have begun to have second thoughts!

It was so much fun!

I highly recommend a carousel ride as amazingly good for everyone!

What a lovely way to spend an evening with my husband.

Snow Day!

2010-11-22T13:32:00.000-08:00

Books and Pig Tails

2010-11-10T12:48:00.001-08:00

Makenna and I are taking part in the Friday Morning "You-Me-and the Library" program being held at our local Library.

There are stories and songs, rhymes and dancing, puppets and of course... books!

When we first arrived there was so much to take in, but Makenna got the hang of it real quick and made a beeline for the book shelf. Once she found the book that she wanted, it was a short distance for her bottom to find a place on the carpet to sit down and enjoy her literary pick... and what a pick! First book off the shelf and look at the last name of the authors... this is one amazing little girl! Out of all the names, on all the books, Makenna's first choice has her mommy's maiden name right on the front... like I said... amazing!

It was a day for pig-tails...

such a curious little miss...

but she waits so patiently,

and politely,

with her book on her lap,

until the Library Lady comes,

to open the doors to the Story Book Room.

Once inside,

Gramma and Makenna get themselves settled on the floor.

It's still all a little new,

so lots of snuggling in...

and then the stories and puppet show begin...

and this little girl is mesmerized!

After the stories and dancing were all done,

(don't have pictures for the dancing... I was too busy twirling!)

we spent some time checking out the tables and chairs in the library...

then we asked the nice Library Lady if she could order in Uncle Daniel's favorite book -

"Courderoy"...

and then we headed home for a soup and sandwich lunch before nap time.

Oh, and we made a trip to the Library bathroom before we left...

Makenna is wearing big girl panties now!

Good Things...

2010-09-16T15:41:00.000-07:00

I just love it when things come together, even if they take awhile to get there! Two years ago I purchased a lampshade at the Salvation Army for $1.99. The plan has always been that it would be placed in my Sewing Room... once I had paired it with a lamp base.

Today, Scott and I popped into Value Village before heading home and I spotted a brown/black lamp base for $7.99. I found a socket, apprehended a bulb and voila... it worked! Still thinking that it was meant to grace my Sewing Room, I was delighted when I realized how well it worked in the Entry Hall. I have been wanting a lamp here for years, but all the lamps that I have seen were much to ornate or too modern and all cost $50 and over... yet, today I have one, and for under $10! Simple, clean, elegant, yet welcoming and homey. Just the right fit.

Next on the list... patiently waiting until my husband places an electrical socket in the Entry Hall that the 'new' lamp can be plugged into! Sigh... good things do come to those who wait... they do... they do... they do...

A Stroll Through My Autumn Garden

2010-09-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the old saying 'A picture is worth a thousand words' just seems to fit - and this afternoon, as I was hanging out the cotton sheets to dry on the line, my Fall garden just took my breath away and I needed to pause and take a stroll through the amazing display of Beauty that is so lavishly being displayed.

I cannot help but think that even if no one was to take the time to look, even if no was to take notice, that this Beauty would still be as bountiful in its offering, still as glorious in its declaration of its glory to God.

Tea for Two

2010-08-11T17:02:00.000-07:00

I had a lovely little surprise today when Edna dropped over with a teacup. No, she was not going to stay for tea, but rather had with her a handmade gift.... a piece of garden art for me!

Edna made it herself! It's a lovely little teacup and saucer that sits quite composed upon a glass block. A copper pole secures it in the ground nicely and it is accented with copper wire and soft blue beads... lovely. Edna even provided a battery tea-light candle for evening and I can hardly wait to try it out tomorrow evening when the kids all join us for dinner outside.

God has blessed me with such a creative sister in Edna, just enjoying her creativity would be blessing enough, but to know that she thought of me, in such a loving way and then expressed her thoughts with such generosity - she has blessed me this day and has added beauty to the garden of my heart.

My cup does surely overflow each day... but some days... well, God is just so blatant! Each time I look at this little piece of garden art, from my sister Edna, I will be reminded of the overflowing goodness of God to his children.

A Pocket Full of Posies

2010-08-11T11:59:00.000-07:00

It would appear that I have a little flower girl in my midst. This being the second little posey that has appeared upon my doorstep in the last week - a gift, I do believe, from little Yasmine next door.

After we arrived home from our trip to the lake, I had written a thankyou card to Yasmine and her mom Trish, who kindly watered the hanging baskets in the front of the house while we were away. The next day, Yasmine was at the door with a beautiful bouquet of fragrant, deep pink lilies. We just happened to be sorting through some of the boys' old stuffed animals that we were intending to give to the Salvation army, and Yasmine scored by taking home three... a dolphin, a monkey and a frog. Two days later, a lovely little posey greeted me as I went out to check on the mail.

I really appreciate this lovely gift, since I enjoy flowers so much and that the giving of posy's, it would seem, has become such a thing of the past... except perhaps to little girls!

A nosegay, posey (or posie, posy), flower bouquet or tussie-mussie is a small bunch of flowers, typically given as a gift.

They have existed in some form since at least medieval times, when they were carried or worn around the head or bodice to mask the unpleasant smells of the time - literally, to keep the nose gay (to keep the nose happy).

In their current form, they rose to popularity during the reign of Queen Victoria, from 1837 onwards, at which time the tussie-mussie became a popular fashion accessory.

Typically, tussie-mussies include floral symbolism from the Language of Flowers, and therefore may be used to send a message to the recipient.

Whether it's a NoseGay keeping my nose happy or a Tussie-Mussie keeping me fashionably adorned, a Posey by any other name is still a sweet gift of the heart!

The combination of Hydrangea and Poppy that Yasmine blessed me with today, according to the Language of Flowers, carries the meaning of 'imagination' and the sentiment of ' thank you for understanding'... a sweet little offering indeed!

Hakuna Matata!

2010-07-18T10:45:00.000-07:00

We went to see The Lion King stage production at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre last night! No sooner had we arrived than Scott made a beeline for the vendor's table, I was terrified that he was going to buy me a T-shirt (just not my thing), but instead, he came back with the, not to be without, Special 2-Disc Edition which includes the Original Broadway Cast Recording and new BONUS behind the Scenes DVD of The Lion King, the Landmark Musical Event! Oh, yeah... and the evening had begun!

Amanda and I have been sewing our little brains out for the past two weeks, trying to dead line our Lion King dresses, and yes, we girls got them finished and wore them with great... (no pun intended) pride.

We were told not to take any pictures in the theatre and although I adhered to the rules throughout the production, I was able to take a few random pictures, and I do mean random, before the musical got underway.

I wasn't quick enough on the draw when I took this one as Adam and Daniel had just been doing the 'stupid laugh' that only two brothers can do, and only two brothers can totally get.

They had another one that lasted from the closing of the show until almost to the parking lot - some guy at the end of the show got individually very enthusiastic in his applause and vocal appreciation and it sent the boys into fits of manly giggles - to further their enjoyment, they continued to re-enact the guy's response, only adding to their hysterics (just as an added bonus, Daniel informed us that he actually blew a snot bubble from laughing so much)... yep, I surely love my boys!

This is a picture of the two Lion King dresses, side by side...

... and our footwear of choice for the evening.

Like I said... random!

It was a fun evening, and a nice diversion in the middle of our summer.

Hakuna Matata!

Cardiocrynum

2010-06-30T11:03:00.000-07:00

Just look at this beauty! The name of this plant is Cardiocrynum and it is originally from the Himalayas; the UBC horticulturalists were able to somehow cause it to be adaptable to our cooler climate on the West Coast, and this morning I was so grateful.

This plant found its way into my garden, as so many of them do... as a lovely gift. A few years back, I was invited to an older couple's home to see their amazing display of rhododendrons on their sprawling acreage. The names of this couple are Ken and Ted and they used to get a laugh out of people thinking that they were a gay couple... but they weren't! Ken's name is actually Kentucky, apparently her father had visited the states as a young man, and was quite taken with the state of Kentucky. I told Ken she should be grateful that he hadn't been impressed with Illinois - imagine going through life as the girl that was 'ill'!

Anyway, on this particular visit, Ken was confined to a wheelchair and was unable to go through the grounds with Ted and I, so after she introduced me to their 'pet' ducks, which waddled out from the back bushes and made their way to the kitchen door for a treat, Ted and I headed out to look at the Rhodos. To be honest, I like Rhododendrons, but not as much as Ted, he actually belongs to the Rhododendron Society... I had no idea there was such a thing.

As we rounded the corner of the house, I saw the garden from a different angle and spotted right away the Cardiocrynum's, how could you miss them, there were simply masses of them and none under 12 feet high. And the scent was AMAZING, each flower trumpet has the scent of a fragrant Lily and with all those flower trumpets, the air was perfectly heady. I spent the next 30 minutes learning about these plants and practicing it's name. I told Ken that the 'cardio' part of its name reminds me of the heart, and the 'crynum' reminds me of the mind.

Ken passed away not too long after that visit; I am so grateful for the lovely afternoon and the gift that both she and Ted gave me from their garden; and this morning, as the fragrance of the flowers floated in through the windows, I realized that Ken was indeed on my heart and mind.

The Giver of All Good Things

2010-06-15T10:26:00.000-07:00

Here's me,
making like a piece of driftwood
on our day spent at the beach.

Who needs a spa, when your husband chooses rocks,

heated by the sun,

and places them on your shoulders to ease muscles and relax you.

The Buchart and Minter Gardens may attract the crowds,

but nothing compares with the sweet and unassuming beauty of wildflowers,

growing amidst the driftwood.

And as for purchasing a memento of the day

in an over-priced gift shop...

a simple shell, washed up onto the sand will do nicely!

I enjoyed the view immensely...
Both of them!

And,

before heading back to the Fun Bug,

to continue on our day...

I gave thanks,

to The One Who is the Giver of All Good Things.

The Winds of Change

2010-06-07T19:08:00.000-07:00

The Winds of Change blew softly this morning in the garden and as a result, the baby robins left their nest, almost two weeks to the day of pecking their way through their little pale blue eggs and into the bright new world.

I've enjoyed our morning, afternoon and evening visits. I've enjoyed whistling to their mama and papa to let them know that I am there to check on their babies and to let them know that they are taking care of them, beautifully. I felt a little sad that I wasn't able to see them off, and their little nest looked almost forlorn without them all cuddled in.

Their mama was sitting atop the holly tree this afternoon, watching me. I told her how thankful I was that she allowed me to spend these past few weeks with her and her babies, and how gracious she was to me, even after she got caught in the clothes line as I was putting out the sheets a few days ago.

At the exact moment that I was pulling the line out, she landed on the line, close to the wheel, and got caught, flipping upside down. She lost a few feathers... there were at least three big ones that twirled through the air, and a whole bunch of those soft white downy ones that just seemed to hang in the air and make it all seem like a bad dream. She squawked like crazy until her husband came and flew in a frenzied circle around her, until finally, I was able to get her uncaught.

My heart was beating as fast as her wings were and I thought for sure I had killed, or maimed, those poor babies mother. I was praying as loud as I ever have until she finally was released and flapped herself, haphazardly, over to the pear tree. I thought for sure she would give me a good tongue lashing... but she just looked at me quietly, then swooped down to her plum tree nest, settled herself around her babies and gently tilted her head to the side as if to say, "I know that you did not mean to do that, but really, you MUST be more careful in the future." I felt like one of those characters in a Disney animated animal movie, you know, the dreaded PEOPLE who make the animals lives sheer torture. Remember what happened to Bambi's mother? Remember Cruella Deville?

A little wren was on the clothesline recently. I stopped and watched her for a bit, then told her I really had to get on with the task at hand. I shoogled the line a bit, but she stayed on, enjoying the ride. I told her what happened to Mrs. Robin, shoogled again, and she very spritely took to the air.

I've prayed for those little ones, as they make their way in this world, and leave them with this song, paraphrased to fit the moment...

May you rock in the tree tops

all day long...

Rockin' and a boppin'

and singin' your song.

May all the little birdies

on Jay Bird Street...

Love to hear you robins
go "tweet, tweet, tweet"!

Baby Birds Nap Time

2010-06-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

While Mama Bird...

...and Papa Bird,
watched carefully from their perches close by...

All three of their babies,
tummies full from their freshly catered lunch...

Were beginning to settle down
for their afternoon nap...

(click four arrows to view full screen)

"Look at the birds of the air,
they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns,
and yet,
your Heavenly Father feeds them.
Are you not of more value than they?"
Matthew 6:26

A Little Thyme Spent in the Garden

2010-05-27T18:25:00.000-07:00

Now that the large evergreen has been removed, the foundation for our Summer Gazebo is being prepared... in the meantime though, until it is done, I thought that I would share a little walk around the garden with you...

This Wild Rose has a fragrance that is absolutely amazing.

Early in the morning, I take the petals from one rose
and place them in a crystal bowl -

they scent the bedroom beautifully.

As the Lavender is getting ready to bloom -

the Iris's seem to be showing off their colours as an encouragement!

The Rockery is also filling in nicely

and making a sweet appearance...

The Rhododendron was beautiful this year,

and just as it is beginning to round out it's showing...

the Azalea is picking up the theme

and showing off her colours as well!

It's always important to spend a little Thyme in the garden -

here I've chosen to tuck it in underneath the spreading foliage of the Petunia.

And the more Thyme you spend,

the more you will find to enjoy.

For instance, here is a little Robin's Nest that sits,

almost within arms reach, from our morning breakfast table out on the deck -

it is perfectly nestled within the branches of the plum tree.

That Mama bird is simply a joy to watch,

and she sings a very happy song each day!

If you look really close,

you will see that she has decorated her nest,

with a lovely blue ribbon...

well done!

Whatever kind of garden you may have, even just a few potted plants on a balcony will do, I hope that you are able to take a little Thyme...and enjoy!

Petals, Bubbles and Lovely Spring Mornings...

2010-05-10T06:44:00.000-07:00

In a fast paced world, it's always good to be reminded that some of the most beautiful things in life simply require time to enjoy...

Click on the video's arrows for full screen

Ponytails, Polka Dots and Shawls

2010-04-29T12:14:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful sunny morning... but chilly!

Makenna was arriving soon and so I quickly put my hair in a ponytail and awaited her arrival.

She checked out my new do and then gently touched the back of her own head...

nope, no ponytail there yet, just needing a little more hair!

We were heading outside so I quickly grabbed my shawl and heard Makenna saying, "Up!"

No sooner had I lifted her up than she was attempting to put my shawl over her shoulders - this little miss was ready to accessorize! We might not be able to attempt a ponytail, yet, but a shawl... that can certainly be arranged!

So, I laid out all of my shawls for her perusal and selection, and on this particular Spring Morning, the mood was... Polka dots.

She seemed truly delighted with her choice...

And after checking her sweet self out thoroughly,

and from every angle...

we were ready to go outside and play in the garden!

And yes, that little shawl stayed on until it was time for lunch!

My Cup Runneth Over...

2010-04-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

Well, as a beautiful ending to our very full Easter weekend, we celebrated our Easter dinner early Monday evening. As usual, I had my hands full in the kitchen, but I did manage to take a few pictures here and there...

Simplicity is key with me, so I simply cut a few Spring boughs from the garden for the centre piece and placed them in a crystal decanter, the scent was just lovely! The little table cloth once belonged to my husband's grandmother, I enjoy the delicate weave and use it quite often.

The tableware was a mixture of two different patterns, but I really like the look - fresh!

And although our meal consisted of homemade Cauliflower Soup, Baked Ham, Tagliatelli with Mushrooms and Havarti Cheese, Buttered String Beans, Kabachi Squash, Baked Beets, Corn, Peas and Dinner Rolls... with the exception of the Dinner Rolls, the only pictures that seemed to be taken were of the dessert offerings!

My granddaughter takes her Dessert very seriously. Her lovely headband remained on throughout the main meal, but when Dessert came, it was tossed to the wind!

Needless to say, that all good things must come to an end... even Pound Cake and Whipping Cream.

Gramma distracted her with a few rousing renditions of 'This Little Piggy Went to Market'...

Then while I tidied up in the kitchen, Makenna had time with her Grampa....

My boys disappeared downstairs to play hockey...

that's my boys!

Then the girls settled in to read their books...

...while my husband joined me in the kitchen to help with the washing up.

Sigh... was there ever a more contented woman than I?

My cup runneth over.

Me and my shadow....

2010-03-09T08:51:00.001-08:00

I have a little shadow,

that goes in and out with me...

(Robert Louis Stevenson)

... and just recently it seems

that my little shadow and I have been more out than in!

Last week we were checking out the action in my little shadow's new spring garden;

Colour, New Life, and Promises of Good Things to come were in abundance there....

There were so many things to discover,

old gardening pots, a stone step with a flower etched on it...

and a wee man,

with wee ears, nose, eyes and cap...

which brought my little shadow seemingly great delight

and sent her into a fit of giggles when she discovered,

upon checking out his back side,

that he also had a wee bottom!

Having a little shadow is good companionship indeed!

One Year Old... And Workin' It!

2010-01-28T14:02:00.000-08:00

It's our granddaughter's First Birthday today...

And I suppose I just wanted to say...

This first year has gone by in a blink.

Our moments were all full...

Not one at all dull...

She's as cute as a button - don'tcha think?

Small Steps, Big World

2010-01-08T20:36:00.000-08:00

Makenna and Gramma decided to bundle up and go out for a walk before the rains came.

Grampa thought that it was a good idea too and decided to come along.

Jasper didn't want to miss out either!

For little legs and little feet...

A walk outdoors can seem to be a very l-o-n-g and winding road!

But the fresh air and adventure of it all was well worth the effort and her bottle was a welcome thought at the end of it all!

As If I Didn't Have Enough To Do!

2009-12-09T16:22:00.000-08:00

click on pictures to enlarge

(I wasn't actually considering sharing this... but after speaking with my niece Savanah on Boxing Day, well... this post is for you sweetheart!)

Months ago... and I am talking months ago, when Spring had just sprung, my husband and I went out for dinner with his brother and sister-in-law and their two daughters. While at the restaurant, we were given little gummy toy frogs and let me just say that one thing led to another and I just 'happened' to fling mine in the air and it stuck to the ceiling. We had our meal and I honestly thought that the little frog would soon free fall back to us again... we even prolonged our meal as LONG as possible in order for this to happen... but, it did not.

Upon our departure we were graciously given another frog.

After we arrived home I decided to demonstrate to my son, in his room, what had happened and sure enough... the new frog stuck! And there it has remained throughout Spring, Summer, Fall and now Winter.

The other day it was C-O-L-D. I happened to glance up at the little frog on the ceiling and he looked so... cold. To be perfectly honest, I was thinking NAKED... he looked cold and he looked NAKED.

So, I went to my knitting bag and cut off a couple of inches of green and cranberry coloured cotton wool. And with the help of my husband (who held the chair I stood on and told me he couldn't believe what I was doing), and my son who still thinks that I have somehow 'assisted' the little frog's staying power all these months (I have NOT!)... I was able to wrap a little scarf around the frog and thus made myself feel better knowing that he was a least warm... if not upside down.

The New Year is just around the corner... I wonder if a new Spring outfit will be necessary... for the frog I mean.

Update... August 2010
I can hardly believe it, that frog is still hangin' in there!

In honour of its sheer tenacity,

something in the way of a new summer outfit was a definite must!

Shades!

A Girl of Simple Pleasures

2009-12-09T14:42:00.000-08:00

I hope that I never lose the sheer pleasure that I get from baking bread.

Today it is Italian Herb Bread which has, among its ingredients, Marjoram, Basil and Thyme... the kitchen smells WONDERFUL!

Tonight it will be served with homemade Garlic Butter.

I also made some Whole Wheat Buns.

After the dough has been made, kneaded and has risen for the second time. I half it...

...and those halves become nine separate dough balls.

Which are then placed into two greased pans...

...covered, and set aside over the warm oven to rise for another 30 minutes.

Once they have risen to double their original size...

...they are covered in a whole egg wash and placed in the oven for 30 minutes.

and Voila! Fresh rolls!

It's absolutely silly how happy this makes me!

I am definitely a girl of simple pleasures.

Maybe half the fun is wearing the cute little apron that Linda gave me the night we went to see 'Julie and Julia', the movie about the famous chef, Julia Child! (I quickly took this picture on my iMac, and even though I attempted to lift the apron so you could see the frill on the bottom... it is still out of view! Plus, I was giggling at my own silly self for even taking it!)

Wishing you all 'Bon Appetit'!

Happy 50th Anniversary!

2009-12-06T19:36:00.000-08:00

It was my husband's parents 50th Wedding Anniversary recently and so this past weekend the family gathered and celebrated with a lovely meal in a cottage that overlooked an expanse of grounds that gently sloped down to the lake, which happened to be our view during our time together as the cottage walls were floor to ceiling windows.

It was a beautiful day, but C-O-L-D, so we were cosy inside and the fire helped to warm things up!

I hope that everyone had an enjoyable time... this goofy little Photo Booth montage is for you!

love,

Caught... Staring!

2009-11-27T15:32:00.001-08:00

I was caught stairing staring today...

stare

stare |ste(ə)r|

verb [ intrans. ]

to look fixedly or vacantly at someone or something with one's eyes wide open : she stared at them in amazement | Cathie sat staring at the stairs, her mind numb in disbelief.

OK, so I had a little fun with the definition! Honestly, the only

reason I am even sharing this with you is because many of you

have been right there with me through the travails of these

stairs being 'birthed'.

I was beginning to count how long they were taking to be

completed by the holidays that were flipping by on the calendar!

But here they are and I am delighted, they are exactly as I had

envisioned and planned.

Simple, clean, and open in design, with the black and white accent that I enjoy so much.

I can hardly wait to add the finishing touches that will pull it all together, then off to find some new flooring next week.
And the beat goes on.....

It's A Dog's Life!

2009-11-25T18:39:00.000-08:00

After a long afternoon of working at my desk, I was finally finished. So after tidying up, I turned around to leave the Little Room... and saw this...

Thinking that I wouldn't mind forty winks myself, I instead quietly reached for the camera and as I snapped the picture the 'click' of the button awakened him.

I made the grievous mistake of telling him (in fun) that he was a
'lazy dog'....
and this is what he gave me!

Well, two can play at that game mister...

Just don't mess with the blogger!
Seriously, this dog needs a haircut.

A Wonderful Way to Spend a Weekend!

2009-11-23T13:51:00.000-08:00

click on pictures to enlarge

The weather this weekend was wet, cold and miserable... but did we care? Nope! We had all the sunshine we needed right within our own four walls!

Makenna had arrived and was ready to explore.

Cupboards and drawers seem to be be her preferred choice at this particular time...

...especially ones with knobs or handles on them.

After all her exploring it was finally time for dinner.

Grampa set down the table etiquette rules of the house...

Which were listened to intently...

Then it was game on!

Chicken, peas, carrots, and mashed potatoes! All given by Uncle Dan!

After dinner we attended evening church services, which our granddaughter seemed to enjoy thoroughly, although I never did mention to our pastor that as soon as he began to preach she promptly fell sound asleep!

Afterwards, there was plenty of visiting to do and Makenna was able to meet so many wonderful people that are very dear to us. One particular little three year old boy seemed to take a shine to her and upon leaving, gave her a kiss on the bridge of her nose... precious!

When we arrived home it was time to get on our pajamas...

Put up our feet...

And watch a little TV before calling it a night.

Our program of choice?

Why the 'Backyardigans' of course!

After a little 'Spa' music to unwind it was time for bedtime prayers before settling down for a good night's sleep... ZZZzzzzzzzz....

Was it just me or did that seem like a very short night from my head hitting the pillow to arising the following morning?

Whatever the case, when morning came, this little girl was raring to go!

But not before we first had a time of 'pillow gymnastics'!

Then a morning bath...

After which, Gramma could just not resist putting in a little barrette that she just happened to have lying around.

Where it stayed just long enough for me to take this picture and for mummy and daddy to see when they arrived a little later in the afternoon.

And while I was busy making the blueberry muffins for brunch, Makenna, for the most part, over saw the entire thing... in between snacking on her 'puffs'.

It was a wonderful way to spend a weekend!

A Pleasant Thought...

2009-11-21T13:09:00.000-08:00

This morning I awoke with this pleasant thought...

Our granddaughter is coming to spend the weekend with us!

Needless to say,

I am delighted!

Monday morning I will be tired...

But very, very content.

A Lady Bug At My Window

2009-11-01T10:13:00.000-08:00

Look at that sweet little face at my window! We had the flu at our house this past week and so this is as close as Miss Lady Bug and I were able to get - a window pain pane between us...

I looked up pathetic in the dictionary and it means pitiful... yep, look at that little face... purely pitiful!

After she flew away, and feeling a little pitiful myself, I went and found the Lady Bug Song...

(video may take a moment to load)

It cheered me up a little, and after all... Miss Lady Bug did fly off and had a wonder-full day! Bless her little heart...

Her very first little pumpkin....

At this point a soother will have to fill in for CANDY...

Stuffed toys, glowing pumpkins, a little Lady Bug treat bag, and smiles from every one who meets her... yep, Miss Lady Bug would have appeared to have had a wonder and full day!

A Change of Seasons

2009-10-26T16:11:00.000-07:00

Jasper and I headed out into the garden this morning, mostly to enjoy the invigorating wind that had whipped up and was blowing the already branch dizzy leaves off into the blue, their flight to freedom short lived as they were to only land on our grass before making the final hurtle over the fence.

It was time to say thank you, for all the pleasure the garden has given over this past summer; time to say goodbye to those plantings that will go deep into their roots, gaining strength for yet another season, not yet here; time to smile at those stalwart evergreens that will bear the weight of the heavy rains and snow of winter, as well as the bitter winds that blow in from the North.

The colours right now are quite beautiful; there is an ease and maturity and nobility about Autumn that is quite elusive to bright and cheeky, energetic Spring. Both of these Seasons bring change, just a different kind.

I always feel my best when I am outside in my garden. I've known for years that the 'real me' is to be found in a pair of overalls and a plaid shirt, securing the notion that with my Scots heritage I really am quite 'tweedy' by nature. If I didn't look such a fright when I did it, I would probably be quite happy mucking about for weeks on end, hair back in a bandana and gum boots at the ready by the door.

I have noticed that the older I get the more I seem to appreciate the beauty of Autumn. There is a slower pace, a 'cosying' up that comes with it that I appreciate so much. The trace of lingering fog in the early morning that the warmth of the sun has not yet chased away; the air laden with that peaty, smokey scent that seems to be such a part of the area that I live in. I love the dampness underfoot and the moistness in the air and how oatmeal just seems so right to begin an Autumn day!

As I walked through my garden I found a planting that I had placed during a Season when my boys were both young and still about my feet; then I stopped and gazed up at the Honey Locust that we planted as I entered into the season of being a gramma - we call it the Gramma tree, in the shade of which my granddaughter and I will sit during the warmer days yet to come and read to one another, or perhaps just giggle about nothing in particular for absolutely longer than necessary!

Both of these Seasons have brought change, just a different kind.

Joyfully Giving Thanks!

2009-10-12T13:04:00.000-07:00

click pictures to enlarge

I awoke this morning to find all the rooftops white with frost... Fall is definitely here. The trees are beginning to put on their spectacular colours of various shades of gold and russet, the sun is full and bright, and the air is crisp and cold... and I love it!

We had our Thanksgiving meal last night here at home, and first thing this morning I had the pot on the stove in preparation for making the inevitable turkey soup... mmm-mm!!

It will go good with the homemade Dinner Rolls I made yesterday afternoon!

It's such a great time of the year for so many reasons, one in particular is that it's the time that I get to indulge in my Joy... of baking! I go through a bit of withdrawal in the summer because it's just too hot to turn on the oven, but in the Fall I make up for lost time and enjoy every moment of it!

This morning I decided to make some Pumpkin Orange Muffins for my husband to have with his mid-morning coffee. I made a dozen yesterday afternoon, but they have quickly disappeared and I have plenty of pumpkin for another two dozen.

This particular recipe comes from The Joy of Cooking cookbook that was given to me as a wedding present (how could it be almost 30 years ago!)

Just yesterday a section of pages fell out and into the soapy water of the kitchen sink. I rinsed it off and hung it on the line to dry, the wind picked up quite a bit and its pages were flapping 'Joy' fully in the Autumn breeze. I'll never give this book away, but I think that perhaps I have now entered into a new season of life which beckons me to 'upgrade' into a newer and fuller Edition of Joy.

The muffins...

... seem to be a hit and the house smells YUMMY!

And even the few moments that it took to do these...

... became an act of Thanksgiving in the Light of the Bounty that I live in today.

And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. (Colossians 3:17)

A joyful heart is good medicine! (Proverbs 17:22)

May you too, with thanksgiving, know the Joy in and of Today,

with love,

Goofing Around

2009-09-25T19:29:00.000-07:00

The other evening my sons and I were goofing around with my new little iMac Camera.

We were trying out the 'Pop Art' pictures...

And the 'Comic Book' pictures.

This one looks like the 'The Perils of Pauline' - with me being Pauline, and my two boys the hero and the villian... oh, brother! And I still had a dinner to get on the table!

This one is supposed to be a 'Pencil Sketch'....

And this one is supposed to be an 'X-ray'...

It probably took all of 10 minutes. But we had fun and laughed our fool heads off! These pictures are as lovely to me as any I have of my boys and myself... it shows our silliness and love of play. I wouldn't trade them in for a professional photographer's portrait picture for anything.

Gramma's Playdate! (We Make A Lovely Pair)

2009-09-17T13:42:00.000-07:00

Even though she had just been over the night before with her mom and dad, my play-date with Makenna finally arrived the following day.

My very favorite place to be with her is out in the Garden so we zipped up and headed out to see what changes September has already brought in just a short time.

Many of my late summer blooms have faded away, but there are still a few that linger and add beauty. Even my faithful rhododendron has decided to shed her summer accessories for the deeper shades of fall.

As we meandered around I noticed that our ornamental pear had begun to decorate our lawn with its offerings. I shook out the blanket for Makenna, a little bit away from the danger of any pears dropping on her head, and began to pick them up and sing to her as I went along... "Johnny the Fruitman sells fruits and vegetables, to pretty Marie.
As he pushes his cart along, he sings Marie this song...
OH, dates...dates...won't you be my steady date?
Pears, pears, we'd make a lovely pair.
Peaches, peaches, the peachiest anywhere.
If you cantelope, cantelope, please marry me... we'll live off of my celery!"

You can see for yourself the look I got. Finally, when she realized that I had a whole selection of songs like that, and that I seemed to be intending to sing a goodly portion of them, she just put her little head down and seemed to waive a little white flag of surrender to the entire thing.

Soon the raindrops began to fall gently, I pulled the blanket over her and continued to pick up the last few pears. Just as the rain began to really come down, I scooped her up and headed into the house.

It was time to play on Gramma's bed!

I really don't know which of us enjoys this more... I just know I look forward to it each and every single time!

A little while later, Jasper came in with that 'nobody is paying any attention to me' look.

It was time to change Makenna's diaper.
Give Jasper his lunchtime cookie.
And give a certain little someone her bottle.

And just a little while later, she was sound asleep on Gramma's shoulder. Two very happy, content and blessed girls.... who thoroughly enjoyed their much anticipated play-date together.

Play Date for Gramma!

2009-09-14T20:16:00.000-07:00

I have a play date with my granddaughter in a few days... only two more sleeps!