Sunday 23 December 2012

Magic of Christmas

A Christmas village collection of lighted houses, figurines, accessories and landscaping brought smiles to the faces of shoppers, and the spirit of the holidays to their hearts.

Saturday 22 December 2012

Holiday Spirit

An expansive Christmas village was created this season in the Downtown Chatham Centre. The display captivated and delighted friends and family members of all ages.

Wednesday 19 December 2012

Winter Warmers

It is winter and we have had our first snowfall already. My sister's home is nicely warmed up with the natural glow and crackle of the open log fire. It beckons one to cozy up with a mug of hot chocolate. 

Monday 17 December 2012

Good Fellows

It is not just Santa who delivers. This month I have experienced and witnessed much heartfelt volunteering and giving of time, talent and resources with local service groups and organizations. My heart is warmed with so many people sharing their blessings, and offering and giving gifts of self.

Sunday 16 December 2012

I See You

Today I went on my first birding experience. I helped the local Sydenham Field Naturalists do their Christmas Bird Count in the Blenheim/Rondeau Circle. In total there were 106 different bird species identified and thousands of birds counted. We spotted this Northern Saw Whet Owl in a cedar tree near Guilds.

Saturday 15 December 2012

The Tundra's Banana Belt

This weekend our temperatures are in the 50's. Can you believe it, it is the middle of December! The Huron Gravel Pit ponds around the corner from us in Pinehurst have been the sanctuary for thousands of migrating Tundra Swans. With corn in the fields and so warm out, I think they have decided to stay.

Wednesday 12 December 2012

Shine Bright

This week we will be crazy busy putting the tree up and decorating the house, attending seasonal celebrations, luncheons, parties and shopping. I'll need to remember the true reason for the season.

Thursday 6 December 2012

Adeste Fideles

                               Angels have been popular Christmas tree toppers 
                              and ornaments for a long time to represent the host 
                              of angels from the Nativity. 
                              This has been the custom of our family Christmas tree.

Wednesday 5 December 2012

Angels We have Heard on High

                                         Angels we have heard on high
                                         Sweetly singing o'er the plains,
                                         And the mountains in reply
                                         Echoing their joyous strains.
                                         Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Tuesday 13 November 2012

Candles of Hope

Candles of Hope are burning bright,
Filling our hearts With eternal delight,
Hope, joy, prosperity and health.
Wishing you Happiness & Peace.
Happy Diwali !

Monday 12 November 2012

Belaying a Rope

To fully secure your boat you have to tie it correctly. A cleat hitch is one of the basic sailing knots and it is used to attach the line of your boat to a cleat on the dock. The size of your boat does not matter as a cleat hitch can be used for either small or big boats. To make a good hitch is considered an art for many.

Saturday 10 November 2012

Beacon of Light

One-eyed sentries standing tall
dare to challenge every squall,
to be a beacon in the night;
A guide, a friend, dependable light.
Raging Nature can never douse
The welcoming beam of a lighthouse.
A fortress planted at the shore
Undaunted security at any hour.
~by Adam Smith

Friday 9 November 2012

Shrooms

The leaves are raked and the grass has had it's last cut of the year. We have not had a frost yet and the mushrooms have decided to grow in the grass.

Autumn Beauty


Thursday 1 November 2012

Art Gallery Ghost

The Chatham Art Gallery has a ghost that shows herself around this time of year.

Wednesday 31 October 2012

All Hallow's Eve

 As spirits roam the neighborhoods at night,
Let loose upon the Earth till it be light...

Monday 22 October 2012

Forest Floor

“How beautifully leaves grow old. How full of light and color are their last days.”
John Burroughs

Sunday 21 October 2012

Fall has arrived

Fall has arrived. Behold the changing leaves, and enjoy the crisp breeze. Let your eyes take in the bursts of color. Transformation is afoot and hope is in the air.