Tag Archives: entertaining

New Adventures. . . .

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September seems to beckon with new adventures. I suppose it’s because September gave a brazen wave telling us “Say farewell to lazy, sunny Summer, ‘cause here I come in all my blazing glory!” Little kids starting formal schooling for the first time AND adults trying new activities at the Senior Centre. New adventures for everyone. One of my neighbors was eager to try her skills at pickleball and signed up for classes. Another friend signed up for billiards while a third was determined to prove her bridge skills. Exercise classes and dance classes did not beckon to me yet, so I decided to go for a walk and see what new adventures awaited on whatever route I ambled along. Besides, I was testing out my new pedometer and was curious to see how far I really walk when I do my jaunts.

Tucked among some rocks, I found this treasure that set the mood for the early morning.

A person certainly couldn’t be gloomy seeing that! A few blocks along, I decided to explore a lane I had never noticed before, And just as I walked a few yards, a bright yellow house with the most cheerful garden came into view. I’m sure it was the colorful “cat” umbrellas providing shade to some of the more fragile flowers and foliage housed in colorful pottery set against the yellow—but it made me smile with delight.

Framed in a “window” of the hedge and foliage, was this tiny birdhouse, perched near one of the umbrellas. This was almost missed. . . .

Reluctantly leaving this show-stopping corner, I moved along to see what else awaited me down the lane and over the hill. . .

Near the end of the lane, another backyard showed a replica of a Chinese Terracotta Warrior. It looked as if he was peacefully meditating in a serene corner surrounded by Nature. I thought of it as his calm before the storm of war.

The fruit of this tree stumped me. Then I remembered my handy-dandy grown-up cellphone and used it. Wikipedia informed me that this was a species of a “Chinese Lantern” tree. I had never seen a real Chinese Lantern before that wasn’t a dried orangey husk used for Fall arrangements! You really do learn something new every day!

I knew there were loads of readers in my area because most streets had at least one ‘free library’ available to any passerby. I loved to photograph the colorful and unusual ones. This one caught my eyes because whoever built it continued the marine theme by using glass seahorse knobs for the doors. . . . .

I decided to turn right onto a major road that would take me through the Village and finally home. I had heard that the merchants were sponsoring local artists by having their works displayed in their front windows or on the street. I was curious to see what was chosen.

Initially, I had thought this ‘elegant’ lady was constructed of paper mache, but I was wrong. The owner of the ladies’ wear who sponsored this piece of art said it was strong enough to sit on. AND she did. The seat was surprisingly quite comfy. There were a lot of details artfully added to the gown, neckline and hair, but my eyes were caught by the sturdy black boots beneath the elegant gown. . .

A few windows beyond, this piece of art pulled my camera closer. . .

Does this remind you of fun school trips and the not-so-fun part of writing or drawing what you learned?

I’m not sure if this birdhouse builder meant this to be hung so low, but concluded these were meant to be decorative. They looked so cute and pretty.

Yes, Fairies are real. You just have to believe. . . .

The flowers and fruit trees are pushing out their colors–the fruit is definitely coming. AND those busy squirrels are scurrying to gather up the fallen nuts. .

The deer population has been growing with many twins and a set of triplets. This one was a lonely only. However, all the deer know exactly where to go for the best nibbleys and greens. . . .

Home at last! It was a fun walk and I did learn something along the way as well as enjoy all the things I saw on my rambling walk. I hope you enjoyed it too. Stay safe and well. . .always.

AN EARLY MORNING. . . .

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I love my early morning walks the best. Not because it’s cooler or even quieter, but because I’m always amazed at things I see and can photograph. I can be attracted to gardens or store-fronts or even a simple bloom that must be photographed or it’s gone forever.

The deer population had been quiet–meaning unseen–on my walks, although the gardeners have remarked how much of their gardens had been treated as a buffet for the four-legged wildlife. Much as I sympathized with munched upon gardens, I marvel at their survival instincts. I wasn’t quick enough or close enough to photograph a Mama Deer with her very young triplets or another family with their new twins. On another early morning walk, I did see several young bucks taking their chances being hit with an errant golf ball. I think the second guy felt no one would hit him among the trees. . . .

I enjoy spotting the unusual among the garden plants in stranger’s gardens. I admire the creativity of so many who do their best with very little.

These were handpainted plates mounted on a worn fence and tucked behind some lavendulas and tiny daisies. Another fence had ‘musical roosters’. I recognized the sax-playing bird on another owner’s property but had never seen the guitar playing buddy. His guitar isn’t clearly seen as he’s turned the other way. . . .

Since I was exploring lanes and side streets I wasn’t familiar with, my walking route was rather convoluted. The short street I was walking on took me back to the water view, which changed constantly.

The centre art piece is called “Cosmos” and is one of the newly installed 2025 Oak Bay Street Art at McNeil Bay. Cosmos is likke a giant pinwheel and often caught spinning by the sea breezes. The “Copper Bird” is an art piece from 2021-2022. It was an amazing sight when caught by the sunlight.

Signs always fascinated me. It can say so much with only a picture or a few well chosen words.

The last photo is a well-worn sign with a faded raven and the words, “The Coven.” It intrigued me as no one was in and the sign on the door simply stated “By Appointment Only.” As a writer, my brain was buzzing a million miles a minute. Was it really? Could it be? Rest easy my friends. It is a very clever marketing ploy by a trio of creative and professional hair stylists. . .

It’s true that if you stand still and keep looking up, people will stop and look up too–even if there was nothing you were actually looking at! BUT, there have been times when I would have missed completely moments like the following:

I’ve seen many birdhouses but this is the first multi-housing one. Who would have thought our feathered friends would be having problems finding their nesting place?

An old-fashion cowbell at the high back gate but with the cow attached! AND, yes it does have a very loud ring . . .

This house had an old-fashioned bi-plane hanging from their tree. It was made of recycled coco cola cans and looked amazing.

I’ve often wondered if the deer could actually read this sign. I think just looking at the grumpy face would be enough to deter them. . .or maybe not.

You don’t have to get a crick in your neck looking up. You can also look around and see some pretty entertaining things.

Everyone makes their home their own. I’m convinced the first is a retired fisherman. The second homeowner has a gate that is distinctive and marks the garden and home behind it as his. AND even the gnome’s home has his comfy bench to sit on to enjoy his early morning coffee. . .

Another fun walk to almost end my week. I feel very blessed that photographic moments are there for my camera to capture. No matter which direction I walk, the opportunities are present–you only have to see them.

WHOOPS

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(NOTE: This is an excerpt from an on-going manuscript of a group of retirees who meet each morning for coffee and conversations with their Moka-House friends. They are of various ages and careers ranging from 57-88. Their opinions don’t always agree. The book is tentatively titled “The Moka-House Gang.”

“You know the one word you never want to hear a repairman utter?” asked Henry Goldman, as he put his cup of mocha latte on the large round table where Charlie Swanson and Annie Loo were already enjoying their coffees and pastries.

“Bill?” laughed Annie.

“No, ‘whoops,'” was the morose reply. “Goodness Henry, what happened?” Annie asked in a concerned voice. “Plumbing problem,” Henry said succinctly.

For a moment, only the sounds of cups returning to its saucers and jaws enjoying the Moka-House pastries were heard. Violet Whitfield and Walter Young both made places for themselves and their coffees at the round table.

“Uh-oh, I heard the word ‘plumbing'” Walter said sympathetically.

“Plumber,” said Henry. “Young one,” he added solemnly.

“Young doesn’t necessarily mean ‘inexperienced’,’ Violet commented.

“It does when Senior figures Junior can handle the simple problem of replacing a filler valve.” “Uh-oh,” Walter murmured, knowing what would happen.

“I could have done it but my hip doesn’t allow me to squeeze into that tight space to turn off the outside water valve,” Henry explained.

“Did he forget that important step before he drained the tank first?” Annie asked with a grin. “Yep,” was the succinct reply.

“Oh my,” Violet commented.

“It was a good thing I insisted the kid put a bucket where it was needed, otherwise there would have been much more mopping to do. Being young and thinking he knew it all made his learning experience a very wet one!”

“Well hopefully Junior changed his attitude and chalked this up as an experience never to be repeated!” Violet huffed indignantly.

“You know,” Charlie said thoughtfully, “we all tagged this youngster as inexperienced as soon as Senior called him Junior. Well Junior definitely has his own interpretation of a white-haired senior who tried to tell him about the shut-off valve. After all, who’s the real plumber here?”

A moment of silence followed while everyone munched the last bites of their danishes, brownies and Charlie’s wise observations. Then Violet spoke.

“I sympathize for you , Henry. It must have been a very trying experience. I hope Junior ventures forth on his plumbing career with an enlightened attitude towards seniors.”

“And I hope he does change his attiude as he won’t make it far in his career. There’s an awful lot of seniors needing the services of a plumber in the immediate future. If a smart-aleck-know-it-all lands on my doorstep, I’m not sure I have the patience to deal with him,” Annie added.

“I can understand the ‘whoops’ part,” Walter added, “but what did your plumbing bill actually come to–especially with the mini-flood in your bathroom?”

“Senior decided the work was free gratis. Junior confessed he had ignored my suggestion about the turn-off valve. Senior actually rechecked his son’s work and it was all fine–just that one wet mistake!” Reflecting a moment, Henry added, “Junior definitely changed his attitude and apologized for his mistake. I think he’ll do just fine despite this mishap on his first solo as a plumber.”

“Well, I’m glad all’s well that ends well,” Charlie commented. “At my age, everyone is a youngster. By the time I use their services, they are all experienced. After all, we were all in their shoes once too.”

Gathering up his newspapers and popping his cap on his head, Charlie nodded his goodbye to everyone as he headed out the door, fortified with coffee and conversation to start his day.

A JUNE WALK

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So far, June has been a month of blue-skies and sunshine. It wasn’t difficult to decide on a walking route–choose the one with the cool breeze, a water view at the end and a place for coffee plus an almond croissant. I knew the route I would take–it would take me past a few of the recently installed Avenue Art 2025.

One of the first pieces installed is titled “Modern Man Thinking.” It is a very provocative and controversial piece constructed of stainless steel and cleverly assembled. I noticed the Tin Man’s boots first—very detailed–then the cigarette he held to his mouth and the cellphone in his other hand. It was my Singalong buddy who pointed out what the Tin Man was sitting on. I couldn’t stop laughing. . . .I hadn’t noticed . AND here I thought my neighborhood was too conservative!

It appears there is no common theme for the art pieces this year. Each piece is quite individual and completely on its own. The first is an acryllic face I named “Ice Maiden”; the centre piece is two fish locking lips and heck if I know what that means! And the last piece is named by its artist, “Butterflies in Flight.” There are a few blank places left so it will be fascinating to see what will be installed there over the next few weeks.

Moving through the Village, I remembered the three strange flowering plants that had been planted by the Village clock’s container. And yes, my new iPhone identified it as “Tower of Jewels.” This is a biennial, native to the Canary Islands off the coast of Morocco and now surviving in my neighborhood.  This photo was taken in late April–now, the blooms have fallen and it is all green. I think the bees are giving a huge sigh of relief as the zillions of flowers were quite challenging . . .

As I continued onwards, I marvelled at the many creative ways home-owners made gardens from very little. Not all the homes along my route had big front yards , but I liked what was done with the space available.

A tiny corner off the sidewalk. . .what a wonderfully, peaceful bench to sit and think. . . among the colorful flowers.

Small plants in colorful ceramic pots–resting on a bed of pebbles–very eye-catching.

These hardy purple flowers are thriving very well at the edge of a gas station–hot as blazes with hardly any soil.

I think even my brown thumb can manage this!

Outside the gates of this home that has security, I saw this rooster playing his horn very confidently in a tiny patch of purple flowers..

There’s something about gates that I’m attracted to–this one has a crane–I would love to see the garden behind. . .

I was walking past and had to return for another look. Yes–it definitely was a tiny blue ceramic frog enjoying his stump time in the hot sun. . .

The Dogwood Flowers, BC’s provincial flower, are all in bloom now. They are so magnificent when it fully covers the tree.

I do enjoy the whimsical humor of home-owners. They have definitely recycled a bit of tree stump!

Almost home and the many flowers, along my route, are all blooming well. I enjoy the colors, the warmth of the sun, that bit of breeze. These are just a few of the blooms–they are at their peak and will be enjoyed by all the walkers who pass by.

Passing my fave store called “Good Things,” I had this urge to enter and explore. I was glad I did as this cluster of unique houses made a fantastic photo op.

Perfect ending to my walk. I was almost home and I had walked off that delicious almond croissant. Tomorrow would be another day to explore another direction and hopefully more photos.

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. . . .

IT’S THAT TIME OF THE YEAR

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It’s that time of the year again. ..already.

Whatever happened to the rest of the year? Do you find that time zipped past so fast that the growth rate of your grandchildren are your only clues that this happened?

I was asked the other day–by a lady who is so organized that she had already set up her two fully decorated real trees and had done her massive amount of baking—“Are you ready for Christmas?”. Thank goodness, my friend had a sense of humor and had answered the question that her tree would be decorated Christmas eve by her family coming from out-of-town. As for me and my family of collectable gnomes, I asked, “Does putting a sprig of holly on Simon’s hat count?” Simon is my woodland gnome.

Norbert, Simon and Homer look ready to burst into song, especially “Rocking’ Around the Christmas Tree” (that’s not up yet). . . .

At least, one saving grace this Christmas is the lack of postal lineups and the cards sent to family and friends. But the downside of that is the time saved on this task did not spread to other tasks. I found that I liked writing personal notes on my cards to family and friends who are far away. AND if you ever received a card with just a signature, it means you’re off their list next year because they can’t remember who you are and why you rate a card. But that’s okay–I already eliminated them from my list as I couldn’t remember who and why either.

I love the Christmas lights. It’s really pretty driving home when it’s dark seeing The Village and boulevards all lit up. The workmen had been busy weeks before, stringing up lights in impossibly high places while other busy elves placed lights around all the store-fronts and doorways of the Village businesses. The lampposts at the beginning and at the end of the Village route, were also wrapped in lights .. The candy cane lights were actually three canes, each holding a lighted ornament. . .

Shop windows and indoor displays are always a favorite of mine. It’s amazing to see the creativity of the merchants’ front windows. I like to see the bits and pieces as well as the whole picture. . . .

Anthony at Gardenworks never disappoints. He is phenomenal in his annual Christmas displays. And all his other artistic and creative displays throughout the year.

My favorite Christmas camels in Nicholas Randall’s window.

This was part of a planter display shared by two clothing stores.

I loved the sight of this Holiday spirit with the holly in the basket, a “topper” with a red band and a bicycle—parked outside a Village merchant. . . .

I don’t know about you but the more Christmases I go through, I learned this one truth. Don’t panic and just go with the flow. It only took me a few decades to figure that out. When I’m organized, a number of things can go wrong like the year the power went off as the turkey was cooking. That’s when you know Murphy’s law is about to fall on your head. Now I bake for our visitors and I put up a few Holiday decorations.

Another beautiful tree decorated by Anthony from Gardenworks. . . .

Hubby and I are ready–at least as ready as can be. Meanwhile I get to wish all of my Readers, a very Joyous Holiday Season. May your homes be blessed with the laughter and love of Family and Friends. May all your dreams and wishes come true in 2025.

MERRY CHRISTMAS! HAPPY HANNUKAH! and a HAPPY, HEALTHY 2025!

And oh yes, may you always have a bowl of dark chocolate cherries in brandy by your side.

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.

Spring Has Sprung. . . .

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It was the white Winter Rose (Hellebores) that caught my eye. I was on a mission to see what was Springing forth on such a warm day. AND there was plenty to catch my eye as gardeners busily cleared the winter debris off their grounds and scurried to the Garden Centre to find plants to pop into the ground.

I wanted to find unusual things that perhaps get missed on the day-to-day walks. Today was another treasure-trove. . . on my first Spring walk for 2024.

Someone had spruced up this trendy birdhouse for some lucky birds looking for their perfect Spring-time nest. . . .

I had almost missed this rocky frog, sitting peacefully atop his rocky perch and shaded slightly by the drooping leaves.

I never knew that magnolia buds were “furry”–so all winter long I was waiting for pussy willows. Boy, was I wrong!

These fat pink buds began to finally unfurl and will grow into those fat fabulous magnolias that are my favorites.

I knew Oak Bay was big on recycling and this free neighborhood library is an “original.”

Where else would you find a vintage radio converted to a free library?

I’m glad the clever person also loved his/her books. . . .

On my homeward walk back home, I sighted this pair of cheerful blue birds, destined to be placed somewhere in this large garden.

I hope the owners put them somewhere obvious as they are too cute to be hidden . . . .

Almost home and enjoying this first full day of Spring—-my mission was successful and my reward of a triple chocolate brownie almost in my grasp.

HAPPY SPRING EVERYONE!

My Christmas Wish For You

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Despite the wars, unrest and turmoil abroad and within, I wish I had the power to demand Peace. 

A tiny tree, bare of leaves, but made beautiful in the Spirit of the Season.

I want to give the gift of Hope and to show that Joy does exist, even in the simplest of things.

This was a bare corner of a large building and some one there, who is very creative, made a “statement” using the empty planters, pots and plants who were comin g to a “resting” stage. . .

The gem and stone store showed its Holiday spirits by using gems as the window display. . . .

My favorite store, Gardenworks, never disappoints in seasonal displays.

So many enjoyable, unexpected, simple moments– and there for anyone to appreciate. I count my blessings every day that I have these moments. BUT I wish I could command that wars stop so others can hear and savor peace–not bombs and destruction

     “It’s Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air.“  W.T.Ellis 

    “Christmas works like glue. It keeps us all sticking together.”–Rosie Thomas

    ”Christmas is doing a little something extra for someone.”—Charles M. Schulz

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS, EVERYONE. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELVES AND TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER. MAY THE LOVE AND JOY OF THE HOLIDAY SEASON TAKE YOUR FOOTSTEPS TO FABULOUS ADVENTURES AND FUN TIMES IN 2024!