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Bits and Bobs

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I enjoyed reading Richard Osman’s “The Last Devil to Die”, an entertaining murder mystery involving the Thursday Murder Club. I think part of the enjoyment comes because the four friends are all seniors, living in a retirement home and made it their hobby to help the police solve murders. One of the characters mention writing her bits and bobs in her daily journal and those three words grabbed my attention. I had always thought it was bibs and bobs as one of the tenants that had rented the upstairs of the family duplex, had a bit of a lisp, especially when she forgot to wear her upper plates. Now, decades later, I have the corrected version which makes more sense.

Being awake at 2:33 am is no fun. Instead of drifting off again into a nice, restful sleep, my mind was hop-scotching in various directions–none of it earth-shattering or needing life-and-death decisions. Bringing a home-baked apple pie or a lemon meringue to a pot-luck was not exactly serious enough to result in insomnia. And neither was car-pooling because our driver was a certified teacher for educating her students to the rules of the road. I had already dismantled the newborn hat that didn’t fit the grapefruit and started another version. The grapefruit was supposed to be the size of the newborn’s head. My last thought was throwing together blueberry muffins now to bake later or baking them now and we would have fresh-baked but colder by the time we were ready for breakfast. Also, if I did get up to do all this, I would be really wide-wake. And it was on that thought that I must have finally fell asleep.

Browsing through my favorite shop, Gardenworks, made me realize Christmas was exactly four days away as I write this. The artistic staff had been busy with their Holiday creations and there were plenty of inspirations for photos and gifts. Gnomes and Christmas birds were a part of it. Perhaps that was why my thoughts were scattered and filled with bits and bobs–Christmas was already around the next corner and I was just not ready. . .yet.

Lots of Holiday reds. . .that helped make a festive mood. Note I said festive and not chaotic which was what I was kind of feeling. . .

Gnomes and Owls–that helps. . .I really love owls and gnomes are another favorite. . .

A real orange tree makes it a Holiday scene. . .I’m feeling a bit of that festive mood now and less chaotic over what needs to be done. . . .

Pinecones and evergreen boughs. . really great scent and the sight evokes Christmas scenes of the past. . .

They’re not silver bells but silver balls and cones, on a bed of evergreen boughs makes it another Christmas scene.

Christmas Eastern Teaberries add to the mood. Thank you Gardenworks for getting me back into the Holiday spirit. Just browsing through your wonderful and friendly store makes it inspiring. . .

I think the sound of Christmas really hit when I attended a Pre-schooler’s concert. The carols sung by the 4 year olds was especially memorable, when one of the little boys proudly announced that it was his baby brother who was asleep in the large wicker basket as the enthusiastic voices sang ‘Away in the Manger.’

The smell of butter cookies, gingerbreads and mince tarts, baking in the oven, makes Christmas even closer–practically on my doorstep! It’s nice to know that the sight of Christmas-y reds and greens on displays– plus the sugar and spice scents that dominate the Holiday scene does make it a holly, jolly, ho-ho-ho, candy-cane moment.

Now the big day is finally here.

Thank you to all my Readers who read my bits and bobs and joined me on all my walks. I would like to wish all of you the Merriest of the Holiday Season. May 2026 make many happy memories to savor and enjoy; bring unexpected moments to be fondly remembered. But most of all, have old friends by your side joined by new friends met along the way.

MERRY CHRISTMAS! HAPPY NEW YEAR!

FROM “HONEY AND HUGS”

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I’ve always had a warm spot for Pooh-Bear and one of his besties, Piglet. Somehow, he always knows the right things to say. AND in this crazy world of ours, this is a very wise observation. . .

This is shared from “Honey and Hugs” (found on Facebook)–a wonderful collection of Pooh-Bear’s interpretation and observations in his 100 Acres Forest home.

HERE COMES AUTUMN. . . .

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Well, who would have thought Summer would eventually migrate south to warmer climates and sunnier days. Here we are, almost mid-October and all the signs of Fall are parading past on my walks–suddenly my walking tees and shorts are now sweaters and jeans.

The first signs for home-owners and pedestrians alike–the trees are shedding their leaves, baring themselves for Winter.

Heavy overnight rains often result in a burst of mushrooms, popping up on lawns, patches of bare soil and wherever they can grow. Summer had its occasional tiny patches but heading into cooler, wetter weather–larger patches of mushrooms seem to favour Fall.

These lichee-like fruit caught my attention last year, but I didn’t have my super spiffy cellphone that takes the photo and has the option of telling me what this is. Now I do. I was very surprised to discover that this is a species of dogwood, Cornus kousa.

The scented roses along this rock wall have finished their Summer blooms, leaving behind bright red rosehips–a sign of a season leaving and another beginning. . . .

Baskets of various squashes from my favorite shop, Gardenworks, definitely defines Fall. Mother Nature is preparing herself for a bountiful harvest and Winter’s hibernation.

Chinese Lanterns, coming to its almost dry whispy shells–ready for an Autumn floral bouquet–just in time for a Canadian Thanksgiving.

One eager homeowner had to set up his Halloween display before the month came to an end. October signifies hopefully, a bountiful Harvest, a Canadian Thanksgiving and it seems, Halloween.

I loved this when I saw it–an old farm truck piled with pumpkins at my favorite farmer’s market. . . .

With the Canadian Thanksgiving arriving in a few days, (October 13th), I have much to be thankful for. I am thankful that all my family are in good health and secure in their various homes. I am thankful that my American family and friends are safe and well where they live. I am thankful for living in a democratic country with freedom of speech and the freedom to vote however I choose. A few may disrupt the system, but never destroy it. . . yet. All our rights, so fiercely fought for by all our ancestors, must never be taken for granted and left unprotected.

MAY THIS THANKSGIVING FILL YOUR HEART AND HOME WITH LOVE, FAMILY, FRIENDS FROM BOTH SIDES OF THE BORDER AND HOPE FOR A BETTER TOMORROW.

AND FOR THOSE WHO COULDN’T THINK OF ANYTHING TO BE THANKFUL FOR–THEN BE THANKFUL FOR EACH DAY THAT BRINGS US A FRESH START. . . . .

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM MY HOUSE TO YOURS.

IF YOU ARE IN VICTORIA, BC ON AUGUST 28TH

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INCLUDING MURDER, MAYHEM AND OTHER CRIMINAL SHENANIGANS

COME JOIN ME AND A BEVY OF WELL-KNOWN CRIMEWRITERS FOR AN ENTERTAINING EVENING OF MEETING THEM AND LISTENING TO EXCITING EXCERPTS FROM THEIR CURRENT WORKS.

WE WILL BE AT THE TRENDY COFFEE ROASTERY CAFFE FANTASTICO 965 Kings Road on Thursday, August 28-2025 beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Come meet and hear John Farrow, Jean Paetkau, Ardelle Holden, CJ Papoutsis, Shane Joaquin Jiminez, Christine Cosack, Jim Bottomley, Judee Fong and Host/Writer Magnus Skallagrimsson.

A Mother’s Day Walk

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This fantastic grafitti is there no longer . Progress took over. But I loved seeing it when I took a walk a few months ago in a different direction and felt compelled to photograph it before it disappeared forever.

Reaching into my pocket, I reached for the first of my fortune cookies I had packed for a snack. Munching away, I read my fortune and laughed out loud. Destiny or Karma really knew how to gently scold . . . .

My fortune read: Do not despair. Embrace new changes.

Karma had perfect timing. . . .

The deep pink camellia petals was so picturesque as I ambled around the corner to the Library with my bag of books.

I was anxious to see what Anthony and his Creative Team did with their Spring display at my fave stop, Gardenworks–and they didn’t disappoint. This was an outstanding display a month or so ago–always filled with eye-catching displays, Gardenworks gives its creative staff free rein and customers truly appreciate the artistic creativity.

It was hard to decide which direction I should explore as I was just beginning to use my new cell-phone camera again. I opted for a stroll along the Avenue to check for photo ops. AND as usual I found a few. . .this beautiful dogwood tree in bloom. . .

These gorgeous eye-catching towering plants called Towering Jewel, was newly installed in the centre of the Village.

Before I knew it, the camera and my feet took me through the Village and on a street I knew well. It had my fave house–a house I always felt should have a writer’s den in the tower.

There’s my den–just below the green pointy roof. . .

At least, that’s what I always think whenever I pass. . .

This beautiful Guardian of a consignment store found a new home immediately. I thought he looked quite comfortable in the midst of all the other treasures. And I’m so glad I snapped a photo when I did. . . .

This is one of the many artwork displayed along the Avenue–a family of foxes, enjoying the view.

I had to make a rest-stop and this was cleverly drawn on the inside of the door–such a cheeky looking cat and I’m sure, a cheeky artist!

Homeward bound, I marveled how life goes on–with or without you. It felt good to discover new things and rather disconcerting how progress can destroy the familiar. Reaching into my pocket, I unwrapped the last of my fortune cookies that I had brought along for a snack. Reading my last fortune, I had to laugh–Destiny or Karma really knew how to make a mere mortal laugh. . . . .How did she know?. . . .

IChanges brings positive vibes–embrace them.

I must say, Karma did recognize my mood at the beginning of my walk, but at the end–on the home stretch–I was feeling much more positive. Mother Nature, artists and things can change a person’s mood very quickly. and for the better. It was a fun walk and I had some great photos. .

I hope my Readers did too. . . . .Embrace your day with a smile—that’s Me, not the fortune cookie!

Your Worst Nightmare

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Does anyone else suffer through the ecxcruciating pain of navigating the convoluted maze of getting a real human to solve a telecommunication problem?

In my neck of the woods, I thought I discovered the painless method to bypass the lengthy wait on the phone to solve a problem with the phone bill. My secret shortcut was the online “chat” room with a human agent.

It used to be so quick. No queues. No one else in line. Now, I get a Robot.

Robot: Hello. How may I help you today?

Me: I’d like a real live person please.

Robot: I can help you.

Me: I’d like a real live person, please.

Robot: Do you mean an Agent?

Me: Yes.

Robot: I can help.

Me: No, I need an Agent.

Robot: Is it in regards to phone, TV or other technical problems?

Me: An Agent for Account Management.

Robot: I can direct you to an Agent regarding phone, TV or other technical problems.

Me: An Agent.

Robot: Would that be “Chat Online” or “Return Phone call?”

Me: Chat

Robot: One moment please. I will transfer you to an Agent. You are now 24th in the queue.

By the time I was connected to an Agent, I liked to think I was helping a trainee in dealing with human relation problems online. He/She felt good at helping me and I felt good offering training experience.

Not all the agents were trainees, but most seem to use that useful catchall phrase, “Let me consult with my colleague about this unique problem. ” As if my bill with the incorrect balance of a couple of extra zeroes was most unusual. To me, my bill made perfect sense in the hands of a vengeful robot who resented my request for a re al live Agent each time I called.

To be honest, there wouldn’t be any problems if my Hubby hadn’t called “Technical Assistance” for help in adding a second email address for himself. It seemed such a simple request except that trainee managed to remove the entire email program and decided to call it a day, leaving his colleague to fix the problem tomorrow.

After that nightmare was resolved the next morning, Hubby and I agreed that technology sucked big-time. However, the nightmare persisted in that our corrected online phone bill arrived under Hubby’s new email which he quickly forwarded to mine. Unfortunately I could no longer access the billing statement as it was now under Hubby’s new email and passcode.

So, that’s why I’m dealing with that vengeful robot again and waiting for a real human. . . again.

DASHING INTO 2025

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As usual, I can’t believe we are at the mid-January mark. Where did the first two weeks of a brand new year go?

A few days ago, I decided to see if Spring was very far away. The first thing I saw were clusters of snowdrops carpeting the bare ground. To me, Spring had definitely arrived early.

Most Christmas decorations had been removed from houses, buildings, the Village businesses and lamp-posts. But there was one that was just too cute to pack away quickly. I almost missed the cute Holiday Llama. . . .tucked behind some firs and shrubs . . .

Art and Literature seemed to abound on my walk. I love when this happens because each is so unexpected when you’re not looking for it.

The above pieces of glass sculpture were displayed in the Avenue Gallery front window. Often the Gallery would display a large painting to complement the sculptures and this was another successful pairing. Unfortunately, I showed only a corner of the beautiful painting.

But when is art considered graffiti? AND when is graffiti considered art? Abandoned buildings are often canvases for artistic graffiti if there is such a thing. The two pieces of “art” below were painted on two abandoned doors that were part of a derelict building. These were taken a year ago as the doors are no longer there today.

One more photo–Is this considered graffiti (it was painted on the side of a skateboard ramp). . .or is it artisitic graffiti?

The quote below was on the display window of The Village’s bookstore. I thought Neil Gaiman must be a very wise man to write these words.

“I hope that in the year to come, you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are learning new things–learning, living, pushing. You are changing your world. You’re doing things never done before and more importantly, you’re doing something.” ( by Neil Gaiman on Ivy’s Bookstore window)

The contents of the Village Bulletin Board yield an unexpected piece of literature. Tacked atop the ad for piano lessons was a poignant break-up letter of regrets and good-bye.

I often wondered if this very public letter ever reached the person it was intended for—as the letter mysteriously disappeared 3 days later.

My homeward bound route was through Bowker Creek Park. The Creek had been undergoing a serious redevelopment of preserving the natural habitat for the ducks. The vegetation and natural plants were carefully cultivated and protected. That day, the ducks were out in full numbers with a lot of “Donalds” looking for their forever “Daisies.”

Single, happy and full of confidence, still searching for his perfect “Daisy.”

Oops! Lots of bachelors and is that an unimpressed “Daisy”?

Don’t worry, fellas. . .Valentine’s coming

Swinging through a side street, I found an unexpected piece of garden art. I really believe if a person looks. . .really look. . .art does pop out and grab your eyeballs. . . .

Then I came across a surprising sculpture at the bottom of the entrance to St. Mary’s Anglican Church.

And then took a closer look at the white tag. . . .guess this is called useful art!

I couldn’t resist adding one final piece of art—-the sandals and sneakers were covering a whole section of fence. AND was a traffic stopper at the major intersection.

I’m not sure why the theme was “shoes” but it reminded me how very diverse and clever and creative, we all can be. We come from different cultural roots with different influences and yet we are all similar. We are adaptable and survivors.

Life isn’t about waiting for the thunder and lightning to pass; it’s about waiting for the doughnuts to finish baking and to keep dancing in the noisy storm. . . .

FACES, PLACES AND THINGS. . . .

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I truly enjoy my morning walks and when I was unable to do it for a week, I really felt the difference. This morning I opted to walk towards the water view but an unfamiliar connector lane beckoned and my footsteps obeyed. I am very glad I did.

The first thing I saw was a replica of the owner’s house, mounted outside by the sidewalk. It was artfully disguised as a free-lending library but the details of the mini-house were awesome. It was obviously constructed with loving hands.

The white tab by the side of the front steps is the handle to open the door of the free library.

Faces have always appealed to me. And it is amazing what people have carefully tucked into their gardens. I enjoy discovering them as I stroll by–senior cellphone camera ever ready. . . . except for the young deer, who most home-owners consider an “invader”, but I loved his cute curious face.

Further along, I was attracted to an electrical box that powered up the area and a dumpster. They all wore decorative covers that were attractive–in other words these containers were not the bland corporative khaki tan or ukky green that were an invitation for ugly graffiti.

Unusual signs have always been another favorite of mine. Over a series of walks in different directions, I have collected quite a few.

Nowhere near any fishing hole but a clever post for privacy. . . .

I wonder what others must conjure up in their minds, but I can’t imagine answering the phone as “Topliss Law Group”. . . . . .without smiling.

This was posted in a store window celebrating new graduates—-a very positive message to never let any negative attitude stop you. . .

I’m not sure if a sign warning of garden gnomes lurking and ready to pounce actually works. I haven’t spotted any yet. . . .

Enroute home and pleased with my photo treasures, I spied my final “treasure” high up the trunk of a huge oak tree. What a clever home-owner to tuck this little elf in a natural niche. . . .

Keep well, stay safe and may you enjoy the “magic” of your own neighborhood walk.

JULY BRINGS SUNSHINE, ROSES AND . . . .

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Morning walks seems destine to be early ones, if only to beat the hot temperatures that goes from 70 degrees Fahrenheit to a hotter 85 degrees Fahrenheit in a mere few hours.

Choosing my favorite walking routes of random back lanes and connectors, I noticed this amusing scene in someone’s backyard. I called it “The March of the Pink Flamingoes. . . .I wonder where they’re going? . . . . . .

Other people’s gardens are fun to see as often there are whimsical touches that are quite unexpected.

Like this unusual and whimsical wind-spinner. I think I’m on a path of flamingoes. . . . .

I love roses and this appears to be the month for them. The scents are quite amazing, especially when carried on a gentle breeze.

There’s something beautiful seeing these pink roses poking through the worn fence. I wished I could paint them but will have to be content with a photo.

Continuing my walk through the back lanes and connectors, I should be quite use to seeing a nonchalant deer, intent on his meal mission in someone’s backyard. Where do they learn their attitude?

I think he’s thinking, “Ignore the Human, food is around this corner. . .”

Next to roses, my next favorite flower seems to be poppies. I never realized how many colors poppies came in. Did you know there’s even a lavender color poppy?

I’m always happy when I can walk early. Not only is it a quieter time but also much cooler. Summer months teach us to slow down. It’s time enough to face Autumn’s harvests and Winter’s frost. For now, we savor and endure Summer’s heat, colors, flowers, wildlife and whatever whimsy that falls in our path. I spotted this in the window of a thrift shop.

I call this one the “Perfect Shoes” except these won’t be on my feet, but on someone else’s. I envy the person who can move gracefully on these–most of all, I envy the 4-inches in height this person will gain.

Almost at the end of my last back-lane and close to home when I had to stop in my tracks to take a photo of this striking blue flower. If there’s anyone who know its name, please let me know. Initially I thought of it as an exotic cornflower but it’s not.

Happy July to all of you. Remember this heatwave we are all enduring now. AND don’t forget this when we are all in the throes of icy Winter. Delight in all the Summer moments and don’t forget to hydrate and use your sunscreen when you’re out in that sun.