Tag Archives: opinion

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.

MY COUNTRY’S BIG DAY

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Today, July 1st is my country’s big day–Canada Day. My country is 158 years old so it is still very young. I have always felt proud being Canadian. When my grandparents came from China in the early 1900’s, it was supposedly a land of opportunities for this was a very young country. It was a lie for the country was still ruled by racists and strong prejudicial feelings towards any non-white foreigner who was willing to work hard at any menial job just to survive and raise a family. Both my parents were born in Canada, but not recognized as Canadians. It was a hard life for them too because racism and prejudice still ruled. When World War 2 broke out, young Chinese men enlisted to fight for an adopted country who didn’t want them. My father helped build ships. They fought a war that semi-promised they would have citizenship as Canadians when the war ended. It wasn’t until 1949 when Chinese Canandians were allowed to vote, giving them the opportunity to finally enter business, universities and pursue professional careers.

My brother, sister and I were fortunate. By the time we were born, people were more open-minded in their thinking. Education and opportunities were there if one was willing to work hard. My classmates and I did. There were engineers, teachers, doctors, lawyers, accountants–even politicians and judges. Times were changing and Canada was growing.

Today, my fellow Canadians and I are sharing strong patriotic feelings for our country. We are made up of thousands of immigrants who, like my grandparents, built up generations of their families, making Canada their forever home. Asians, Europeans, Middle -Easterners, Africans–any one wanting to start a new life–all contributed their cultures, foods and skills to make Canada special. The First Nations people, who were here first, have fought long and hard to be recognized too. We all have a history. We all have a story.

July 1st will see new Canadians proudly taking the oath of allegiance to their new country. Many will be grateful for the opportunities to choose their own paths; the freedom to speak and write their thoughts; the freedom to travel wherever they w ish. I can’t imagine living in a country with a dictator who rules using terror and fear 24/7. And if your thinking is not along the lines of the dictator, then you are labeled a subversive, a dissident, a trouble-maker.

I hope and pray Canada will never be that. We need to speak out freely. We need to disagree if something doesn’t seem right. President Trump said Canadians were difficult people. We’re not. He just hasn’t learned the art of respect, diplomacy, friendship, compromise and fair negotiations. He can’t run a country like a television show. Pointing a finger and yelling, ‘You’re fired!’ just isn’t acceptable. And, he can’ t take another country just because he wants to.

I feel grateful and proud that I’m a Canadian. Today my walking route was through the Village and along the water, but the Canadian flag was fluttering in the breeze everywhere. Thanks to my grandparents who came to this country and put down roots for all the generations to follow. Their perseverence, determination and hard work, despite all the difficulties, made the members of my family what they are today.

Canada Day is a celebration that Canada is its own unique country. Yes, we still have growing pains and bumps in the road as we navigate our future. After all, my country is only 158 years old. But we will never be the 51st state for our American neighbors. I live near the US border and American visitors to my city will always be warmly welcomed. I have many friends and some family in the US. Visits across the border have always been friendly and fun. But forgive me if I travel within my own country for the next little while.

As Canadians celebrate with enthusiasm and joy July 1st, I wish all my American friends and family the same for their July 4th. No matter what side of the border we live in, people are the same. We all want a peaceful existance with democracy in full display. This is what we all fought for in our long histories. And, this is what we all want to firmly hold.

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.

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.

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! 

Searching for the Perfect Home

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Feeling in a frivolous mood and what better way to express this. . . .to all the little girls who believe in fairies, elves and gnomes. . . .

Searching for a home is universal–whether for fairies, elves, gnomes or humans. It is the same requirements: location, location, location. And the price has to be reasonable.

If brand new, the right tree in the perfect location has to be selected and must answer the many questions asked by the potential buyer,

Is the entrance (hole) facing the right direction? Is it high enough for an excellent view? Would the architect be able to design a 3-bdrm/2-bath plus a small attachment for Grampa?

Or perhaps a penthouse with its private ladder access might appeal . . . .?

Then there are all the other choices available. Did the buyer want a fixer-upper? A handyman’s special? Or maybe just a fresh coat of paint? What about landscaping? A basement suite?

Or maybe a nice ready-to-move-in home—–complete with nicely painted steps and door, a tiny table and is that a mailbox to the left. . .?

And there’s always that very secluded stone mansion in the woods . . . . .

Add a handy-dandy “Beware of Gnomes” sign to ensure no trespassers come through the woods uninvited. . . . .

See, those Tiny Folks are just like us when it comes to house-hunting. . . . .

BUT when that perfect home is found, then the “Welcome” mat is the first thing to show “this is finally HOME!”

New Beginnings

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Retirement is not a word in my dictionary–that is, if I ever had to create my own word dictionary–retirement would never find its way in there.

There is something very final in the word retirement. Perhaps, it’s the connotations in today’s world. After all, if a person has been happy enjoying their work/profession for decades, then suddenly thrust into leaving a job they love because of their age or because of circumstances that forces an early retirement or just an excuse to make room for a younger, less expensive workforce,  retirement must seem like the end of a useful life.

I like to think of retirement as a graduation–a graduation to a life of freedom to do what you have always wanted to do. There is no reason or excuse not to become that full-time artist or writer or craftsman because we did finish school, got a real job and made something of ourselves. We have left behind our footprints and hopefully helped create a responsible world–at least, a teeny-tiny portion of a world where we have helped people and made a difference in someone’s life.

Now it’s your turn. You can seek your rainbow with an adventurous spirit. You can satisfy your insatiable curiosity for knowledge in matters unrelated to your previous working life. This is your time to fully leap into your part-time hobbies or activities that you always thought would be your full-time job when you retire.

Sound familiar? We have all said this at some time or other while we toiled away at our jobs. Now it’s official. You can do all the things you had thought about and regretfully put aside because other things like family responsibilities and life’s crisis made it impossible back then.

And hey, you know that age thing that got you retired in the first place? Don’t listen to those nagging voices telling you that you are too old to climb that mountain or fly that plane. You are too young not to aim for the moon, the stars and the rainbows.

Go ahead. Graduation is for everyone–not just the young. The world is really your oyster now because you have earned the right to grab your dreams and make them come true. After all, you have the battle-scars to prove it. So let’s raise that glass of bubbly to a New Life and New Beginnings–it’s waiting for you.

(This is dedicated to two good friends who recently retired after working a total of 82 years between them.)