View of 1000 Peaks

Cubes

2012-02-04T19:30:00.006-07:00

Thinking outside the box
is akin to
waking up
and putting your brain on sideways

Tenses

2012-01-24T18:13:00.014-07:00

Our past is history.
Our present is a gift.
Oh, what luck!
Our future is an empty slate.
It's all within a moment.

Time's Gift

2011-12-11T08:42:00.011-07:00

Our Dad.
A kind and gentle soul.
He was a father
and so much more.
A patient man
who always saw the best in everyone
and everything.
He was a steady guide through stormy seas;
both pilot
and steering star.
Dad was the one who would keep his head
when those about were losing theirs.
When we were little
he would dance with us balanced on his toes.
He would blow perfect smoke rings
as he pulled on his pipe,
and sit in comfortable, reflective silence.
Dad was an eager teacher
and a humble poet
with the inner strength of a tall pine.
He could explain the world in simple terms;
from the tiny veins in a fallen leaf,
to the inner workings of an outboard motor.
He was a quiet man who
when he spoke
we paused to listen
and we heard.
He was the loving substance that bound us.
And that beautiful Love endures.

Morning's Breath

2011-10-19T15:47:00.013-06:00

Stealthy
as white night
with fingers twined about slender trunks,
lingering over frosted blades.
Caressing.
Poised.
Its embrace
ethereal.
Cloaking rock, stone and earth
as it hangs,
cleaving in vain
before the advancing bright.

Perspective

2011-10-09T09:58:00.006-06:00

How small we seem
When from the outside seen.
How large we be
When from within we see.
Just a pinprick in time
When we gauge the line.
But expansive we are
When we look afar.
In this we may confide
For it is ours to decide.

Reflecting

2011-08-12T07:41:00.002-06:00

I had a dream
That when I looked into a mirror
Past my shoulder
The impossible was possible

raptors

2011-06-29T08:00:00.000-06:00

the osprey
the eagle
wingbeat for wingbeat
a flawless choreography
swoop for swoop
wheel and dive
the fish
tumbles
free
from the grasp of the osprey
the eagle
like a rock
plummets
to rise again
triumphant
clutching its plunder

Secrets of the Garden

2011-06-29T07:33:00.030-06:00

Being in touch with the earth.
The literal sense will also take us to where we need to be figuratively. My fingernails currently bear signs of the moist, black soil in which they were immersed - and where they will return. I cannot imagine living high above the ground, within blocks of stacked, drywalled capsules, where I cannot stretch my toes and touch the grass from my stoop. However, the large attached deck that soars above the ground, is my refuge during the warm summer months and upon it I tend my garden, a riot of cascading colour, that thrives in clay pots and planters. From this vantage, I may cast my eye over the valley and accept the peace it offers up. The purpose of this garden, jutting out from the hillside as it is, is as practical as it is aesthetic, for the local ungulate population has a voracious appetite - petunias, begonias and pansies; apparent delicacies. The lawn, on the other hand, slopes from the gravelled road in front, in undulating rolls and rocky steps, back and downward to merge into pine and poplar forest, eventually sliding beneath the water's silky edge. The fire pit, noted as the social gathering area, has been relegated to a relatively flat portion of tended grass at the north end of the house - a cool, breezy spot, shaded by a large willow and protected by lilac bushes and towering fir trees. It affords a different perspective across the lake. The irises that flourish beneath the shadow of the trees at the edge of the property are left in peace by the deer - I like to think it is the result of an innate reverence for their beauty.
My garden. A labour of love, wherefore the rewards I reap are tenfold.

Relative

2011-01-27T15:27:00.000-07:00

You
are you.
I
am me.
Together
we are us.

A New Blog

2010-12-19T06:48:00.002-07:00

Beth has just started a blog of her own!

If you would like to check it out, go here:
http://dontlaughyoullmeltlikeabanana.blogspot.com

Big Things and Little Things

2010-12-09T08:50:00.008-07:00

As I head into the busiest time of my year, I find that writing and playing on the computer is so low on my list of priorites that I cannot see it through the haze.
I have been very busy at work. Inventory is an important item during the shoulder season, and I have found myself running from room to room, counting and replenishing. It is a rather fun, but time-consuming activity. With all that, and keeping up with the paperwork, I am virtually breathless.
On top of all that, I have attended the resort orientation for the most part of the week. The snow school is now under the umbrella of Panorama Resort, so it is compulsory that all employees attend the official orientation sessions. In past years it has been a simple e-mail to Don or Heather - and I'm in. Not so this season.
It is quite exciting to be involved with a fledgling snow school! We all have a say in how the manual for future years will read and new ideas on how we think the entire operation might run smoothly. There were forty eager, newbie and veteran/young and old, instructors in one big room. It was fun tossing ideas about and voting-in those which we think will stand up and voting-out those we think might flounder. We got to know each other and are now a united front - slightly different from the relaxed ski school of years past.
This is no slur to Don and Heather whatsoever, who ran one of the best ski schools in North America! They were ready for retirement and the ski school had become slightly faded and jaded, as will anything after many years. There is now a renewed energy that we all feel.
Yesterday morning (in the falling snow) we experienced our first on-snow session of the season and, with it, the opportunity to take the new-to-the-mountain instructors on a tour. It was not only to familiarise them with the hill, but to show them the best teaching terrain - a very important aspect of instructing on the slopes.
As the session came to a close, I simply skied off to my office...
I have today off from work, but not resting by any stretch of the imagination. Getting caught up is more like it - but there is more!
We have a two-bedroom condo reserved for three nights - one of the perks of my job. Once I leave this keyboard, I will be spending the remainder of the day cleaning, doing laundry, organising food, supplies and clothing, then packing the food, clothing and outerwear, as well as skis, boots, poles, helmets, etc. The pets need to be looked after, as well. I've left them in the care of Hillory, who lives in the downstairs suite of the house. She is a kindred spirit when it comes to animals!
Bobby and Jenny have their bags packed and ski clothing and equipment ready and waiting. Both of them are pumped for opening weekend. Bobby is bringing a buddy, but unfortunately, Jenny's friend was not able to come along. Beth will be meeting us there later this evening after work, so the girls can ski and hang out together.
If anyone is wondering, we have declared opening Friday at the ski hill an official Statutory Holiday...
On that note, I will abandon my computer and begin my long weekend - and wish you all a good weekend, too!

2010-11-27T08:40:00.001-07:00

Waraz Baldy aka "Red"
May 11, 1979 - November 24, 2010
Funeral service 10:00 am at Fiddler on the Hoof Farm.
In lieu of flowers, donations to your local SPCA will be greatly appreciated.

In His Own Time

2010-11-24T10:24:00.010-07:00

.
I see you leaping the Rainbow Bridge - head and tail held high as you gallop with the wind.

I will miss you, my old Friend.
.

The Eleventh Hour

2010-11-15T20:04:00.061-07:00

We went to visit my horse on Saturday.
I had previously informed the owners of the farm that we were going to see him for one last time and, after that, the rest was in their hands.

I admit, I hadn't visited Red for some time, but he really did look quite well. He had a twinkle in his eye, his winter coat is growing in thick and full, and he had no trouble enjoying the treats we bestowed upon him - the kids and I had assembled a cornucopia of apples, carrots and guinea pig food... After he'd been fed, coddled, crooned-over and scratched in all the right places, we bid our farewells and watched him trot down the hill to the watering hole. His stride was sure, albeit slightly uneven, but it was sure, nonetheless.

During his last supper, as the kids were wont to call it, and during the photo session, I kept looking for something wrong with Red. He does have a new small lump on his neck, but he's got lumps everywhere - nothing out of the ordinary for a horse - and the ends of the hair on his sides are slightly sun-bleached. He wasn't as able to dig into the apple with his past, youthful gusto, but he was still able to bite it in half with a couple of solid crunches. In retrospect, I should have brought his favourite - a can of Kokanee beer.

When we drove away, I bit back tears as I watched him fade into the distance in my rear view mirror. Could this really be the last time I see him?
I resigned myself to it.
But, something was niggling - not sitting quite right. I just know, that I know... that I know...

Later in the evening, when Gene and I were sitting in the hot tub under the half-moon, I asked him how he thought Red looked. Not being a horseman, but an attentive observer, Gene said that he thought Red looked quite well, given the horse's age. I agreed and it was then that I decided to make one, last phone call. Actually, two.

I had to tell the farm-owner to not go ahead until further notice. I also called my long-time friend, Sam, who's farm had originally been the place where I would take Red to spend his retirement days.
Unfortunately, Sam was recently involved in a car accident and, suffering from the after-effects, had been unable to take on the responsibility. I also know she is very connected with the local horsey community and I thought that one last plea might avail and she could pull something out of her hat. Red might not be so near to death's door if he had a place to stay that could offer some good old fashioned TLC.
As it turns out, after some plan B's, plan C's and plan D's, Sam can keep Red at her place, after all!

Red will continue on to be nursemaid for Sam's two weanling fillies. He will live out his golden years in comfort while resting in the quiet pasture outside Sam's front window. He might not be looking out over the lake, but the vista across the valley is equally as magnificent.
My old soldier will no longer have to compete with the rest of the herd for food, nor battle the cold winter winds that howl and swoop down from the icy peaks. Furthermore, he will have a pair of admiring young maids to keep him company.
As Sam puts it, he will be King of the hill and I'm good with that. Red will be, too!

We didn't ask for more, but we got it.

November

2010-11-13T10:24:00.002-07:00

The time between

When our world lies back

And heaves a great sigh

Preparing to ease beneath

Its icy blanket of snow

Reality.

2010-11-08T14:58:00.009-07:00

I find myself now having to make the ultimate decision.
My old horse's health is failing rapidly and, by all measures, it is apparent he will not make it through the winter. I am loathe to play God, as it were and, aside from the fact that Red has long been my faithful companion, this is also matter that I am wrestling with. Who am I to make the decision as to whether another being lives or dies? That is a tough one, and I could debate it forever.
Red has been with me for the past twenty-two years, and my children have never known life without him. If summer were upon us, and Red was failing as he is now, I would allow him lie down and fall peacefully back into the earth in his own time. But our winters are cruel. An old soldier such as he does not deserve to suffer.
Next weekend Beth, Bobby, Jenny, Eugene and I are going to say our last farewell to our beloved Red.
I have not specified a time, nor will I be there - I could not bear it. The owner of the farm will let me know when he is gone.
His final resting place will be in the shade of a pine grove in his sweeping green pasture on the shores of the lake.
I could not ask for any more.

Dreaming...

2010-11-06T07:28:00.028-06:00

Discovering my newly-inherited, antique school bell in the hands of another...
Being late, due to a series of unfortunate events, for my first day of teaching on the mountain...
Skiing on lost skis, while wearing an ill-fitting ski suit, across a dwindling snowpack melting into asphalt...
Injuring my thumb when breaking a speedboat in half as we load it onto a yacht sailing upon a non-existent lake at the resort...
And making a stop, while on board, at the bar for a Guiness during the search for my son who had apparently been playing truant...

Waking up.

Crash

2010-10-26T06:35:00.001-06:00

My computer has gone boom.

Birthdays and Beaches

2010-10-21T11:33:00.016-06:00

The main purpose of our holiday was to surprise our friend, David, on his 60th birthday, then spend the weekend visiting with him and his family. We hadn't seen David since the banquet in Banff almost a year ago, when he was inducted into the Canadian Ski Instructor's Alliance Hall of Fame. His wife, Jane, had been in touch with us for a couple of months, making plans for our surprise arrival.

Above are the remains of the fabulous food dishes brought by all the guests. I packed my own "famous" potato salad all the way in a cooler. The name tags on our backs were not only our way of introducing us to others, but a way of saying how we know David. Apparently, the fellow in the Hawaiian shirt is David's lover...

The two Grandma's. Jane's mom, Catherine, and David's mom, Ruth. Such sweet ladies - they were the life of the party!

Eugene toward the end of the evening, with a glass of deliciously decadent Grand Marnier for dessert.

Walking it off the next morning in the rain forest. From left to right is David's sister, Linda, Larry, David, Eugene and Heather. I don't know where Jane went...

And Mocha! I mustn't forget Mocha!

The boom of the sea, such as I have never heard before, and the wash of the waves against the shore were all so foreign to me, the land-locked mountain dweller. As well as the gagging aroma of the kelp lining the rocky beach...
That is Jane, appearing again out of the blue, in blue.

Motherhood

2010-10-20T12:19:00.001-06:00

Without a doubt, a test of our mettle.

dragon slayers

2010-10-16T19:56:00.005-06:00

The Fair - circa 2001.

That's Jenny riding shotgun with her best right hand friend, Courtney.

And, true to form, Bobby has the dragon by the tail.

Going West

2010-10-04T08:29:00.012-06:00

The Trans Canada Highway - meeting construction head on in Salmon Arm. This city, located at the southern tip of Shuswap Lake, is considered to be the "houseboat capital of the world". Ahead of us are Gene's brother, Larry, and wife, Heather. On the first day, we convoyed to Whistler over the beautiful and remote Duffy Lake Road, then stayed in a finely appointed suite at the Club Intrawest Hotel for the night. After a delicious Italian meal at the popular Umberto Menghi's Il Caminetto, we were indeed ready to collapse into a soft, downy bed!

Day two saw us waving good-bye to the Mainland after traveling the newly-upgraded Sea to Sky Highway down the rocky coast of Howe Sound. We sailed from Horseshoe Bay and chugged our way across the Straight of Georgia to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. This is one of the largest and busiest ferry terminals in the province. Operated by BC Ferries as part of the public transit system, the ferry ride cost $75.00 for Gene and I to cross in my mini van.

Larry, Heather and Eugene on deck. The weather - cold and foggy, with misty rain and a spray of salt to top it off. The seas were relatively calm and the crossing was smooth.

This is myself squinting into the wind and, at the same time, leaving a fair-sized wake behind me. The ferry was large, therefore it was deceptively slow. I don't know at what land speed we traveled, but it was not at a snail's pace, to be sure!

Two ships passing in the fog - about fifteen minutes out of Nanaimo. The weather became steadily wetter as we approached The Island. The steward soon annouced that all those traveling via vehicle must go below to prepare for docking and disembarkment.

We were then on to the next stage of our travels.

For Gina

2010-09-21T18:39:00.003-06:00

Castles in the sand... can be shaped again and again. xo

my peace

2010-09-09T19:52:00.002-06:00

hiroshima
nagasaki
new york

2010-08-24T21:49:00.014-06:00

Lonely?
There's a dog under my coffee table.
And a cricket in my flower pot.

Neighbours

2010-08-02T06:55:00.011-06:00

Do they not realise that the morning has barely unfolded?
They've been at it since before the sun chanced a peek over the treed horizon, but it now hides its face behind a smoky, leaden layer of clouds. Last night's rain has left puddles glinting on the deck that throw back the dawning grey, and there is a palpable dampness in the blue-tinged air.
The valley would be calm and still, but for the screaming and screeching emanating from the home next door. It seems they quarrel over the smallest of things.
I have duly made note of their names.
Eagle and Osprey.
Please, never let up the bickering!

2010-07-28T14:10:00.004-06:00

Set fans at warp 8.
Lock in coordinates
50'28'03.6"N 115degrees59'34.88"W
Engage!

evening ...

2010-07-18T08:13:00.000-06:00

in paradise

Honest!

2010-07-17T18:06:00.003-06:00

I've been bad.
But I've been visiting.
Lurking but not commenting.
Really!
I will make time.

xo

.

2010-07-05T07:38:00.121-06:00

Why do bad things happen to good people?
Is it reverse Karma? Or a void, perhaps? Is it a hole, left by someone else's bad Karma not yet fulfilled and lying in wait, into which some gentle, unsuspecting soul might fall?
Is it a momentary imbalance in the Universe? Conceivably, a split second where a tiny rift appears in the weave of the fabric binding the cosmos?
Could it be a trice, where light is superseded by dark and where shadow, let loose, greedily consumes the brightness?
How ever one might fathom it, terrible things can happen to those least deserving. In a breath, a person's world may change. No going back.
And with consequences beyond one's imagining.
Circumstances, bad or good, occur for a reason. Often enough, that particular purpose will not be immediately apparent, but instead, be slowly revealed across the span of time.
That being said, what if there is little time left? What if one is toiling toward the end of their course on earth, and simply looking ahead to a few comfortable years of quiet reflection? In such case, will there indeed be enough days remaining for all to be declared and understood?
My hope is that, when one comes of an age, we are somehow more suitably equipped to deal with horrific misfortune.
As for myself, I can merely send up my heartfelt love and prayers for these dear, kind and worthy friends of my family who may now be trapped in this conundrum. And I commit similar love and prayers to the family that bears the more direct consequence of this tragedy.
God be with you.

2010-07-01T08:30:00.007-06:00

Distant booms
and staggered light
Exploding into sparkling orbs
scattering
and disintegrating
Silently tinkling down
into the dark that is the night horizon.

2010-06-28T08:00:00.002-06:00

Dreaming dreams of having to leave ... and, in those dreams, I am confused and ask myself "why?", as there is nothing I wish to do less ... maybe there is a message realised - the tenuous state that is life itself?

2010-06-25T16:31:00.001-06:00

I am taking a deep breath, opening my eyes and searching for words that appear to have eluded me.

that's about as straight as the roads get...

2010-05-24T21:31:00.006-06:00

This photo is of one of the most beautiful places I can remember.

A lovely valley nestled among the green folds of the Laurentian Mountains in Quebec.

Interestingly enough, when I go back to visit, I see nothing has changed at all!

Maybe a coat of paint here and there...

Photo courtesy of the world wide web.

2010-05-22T09:01:00.001-06:00

Okay, okay!
I'm thinking...

Happy Mother's Day, Mum!

2010-05-08T10:16:00.008-06:00

You are the best!

Can't wait to see you!

Now That's Art!

2010-05-08T09:51:00.007-06:00

Q?

2010-05-05T14:50:00.004-06:00

Well, that's that... I'm joining Starfleet!

Erwin

2010-04-30T07:49:00.010-06:00

We lost someone special on Monday.
He was a friend and colleague of mine for the past seventeen years and our extended families have grown close over that span of time.
Two years ago he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He and his family put up a brave battle and I have grown to admire their tanicity, closeness and ability to live every day to its fullest.
His entire family continues to be an inspiration for me.
Erwin, we miss you.

xo

The Blanket

2010-04-26T08:37:00.037-06:00

This is not a happy story, but I feel compelled to write.
Yesterday, on the way home from Jenny's swim meet in Fernie, we came upon a tragic scene. The first thing I noticed was a red SUV nose down in the left ditch. In the next moment, a wave of horror washed over me as I saw a crumpled sheet laying across the centre line of the highway.
I knew instantly that it was not good.
There were people moving about in the ditch by the vehicle and several more on the other side of the road. Passersby had obviously arrived on the scene before us and were aiding those involved. I then recognised the single red crescent shape of a fender lying on the the pavement before detecting the remaining wreckage of a motorcycle several feet away. There were no police nor any rescue vehicles there yet, so it must have happened shortly before we rounded the curve.
We had pulled over onto the shoulder and were stopped as all traffic had come to a halt in the wake of the accident. A gentleman was speaking with the driver of the car in front of us before approaching our window. He asked if we had a blanket he could use. I told him that we did and retrieved my old, weathered car rug from the back of the van. He promptly carried it across the road and wrapped it gently around the shoulders of one of the victims beside the truck in the ditch.
To those unknown strangers who's lives were touched and taken, I wish you Godspeed.

Work in Progress

2010-04-17T10:31:00.001-06:00

Wonderments and Theories

2010-04-13T07:27:00.011-06:00

Have you ever wondered why it is that we are not permitted to spank our children, yet it is entirely acceptable to drug them?
Sadly enough, my theory is that there is no profit in spankings.

Have you ever wondered what happened to the H1N1 influenza pandemic?
My theory is it was discovered that Tiger Woods had several extramarital affairs.

2010-03-31T17:52:00.003-06:00

I've been absent
So busy!
I try to keep up
yet fall farther behind
but remember folks
you are still on my mind!

Brand New

2010-03-22T07:00:00.001-06:00

well I've seen clouds...

2010-03-21T17:48:00.005-06:00

This song came to me as I looked out the window of my kitchen while preparing supper this evening.

The little peak of white snow in the middle is, what we call, the top of "Jesse's Monster".

It's way round back of Panorama on the far side of Taynton Bowl - a poached run, as it's out of bounds.

the guillotine

2010-03-17T18:22:00.002-06:00

and still going

2010-03-11T16:59:00.002-07:00

an old friend ...

2010-03-02T15:54:00.014-07:00

Red and Me

Bow Valley Riding Club, Canmore, Alberta 1988

The trail to Carrot Creek between Canmore and Banff, Alberta

Carrot Creek Canyon

Carrot Creek trail

Red at home with his buddies, Earl Grey and Pheonix

The best paddock ever at the riding club!

lac des trois freres - circa 1957

2010-02-27T13:42:00.092-07:00

It is here I learned:

That a bee will sting if provoked.
That a garter snake sunning itself on rock is harmless.
That if I hide beneath the warm, green beach towel I can enjoy the soothing rock of the rowboat with Dad's every pull of the oars.
That a dragonfly and a blue bottle are of different species.
That mountain climbing does not involve crawling on hands and knees on top of the trees while silhouetted against the sky.
That one can have a picnic no matter what the weather.
That on a hot day the heat will permeate the carpet of pine needles that cushions my feet and will rise again to greet me with a warm, sweet aroma unmatched by any other.
That newly-mown dry grass is pokey on little bare feet.

That the buzz of cicadas heralds a sultry day and no matter how far and wide I search, I will never find that chainsaw bug.
That at nap time I can study the worn blinds darkening my window and imagine its pinprick holes are bright stars in a night sky.
That the inside of a canvas army surplus tent is hot in the sun.
That ice blocks won't melt when packed in sawdust during the wagon's delivery to replenish the ice-box.
That draught horses are big - and have poops to match.
That when helping Mum with the laundry I must never stick my hand in the ringer washer.
That Mad magazines are for reading in the hootnanny - but not for too long, as the smell will take over.
That the cuckoo bird in the clock behind the heavy log front door does not want to eat me.
That lightning comes in all shapes and sizes.
That a baby brother, who is still only at the crawling stage, is a good companion when exploring the outdoors.
That valuable flashlight batteries have a habit of rolling out of reach beneath the couch.
That fire can keep us warm as well as fed.
That even when I sleep in my parent's soft, downy bed I can still have unspeakable nightmares.
That I will never learn the secret of Stripe toothpaste.
That Pocahontas is always watching over me.
That a beautiful garden can be an overgrown riot of colour spilling out of control down the hillside.
That I can actually catch a fish with a stout stick, a piece of string and a bent pin.
That I have to be careful when stepping from the dock into the canoe.
That bushes can grow in the water.
That upon waking in the top bunk to not to sit up too quickly.
That my favourite portion of bacon is the rind.
That a potty in the bedroom at night is very handy and helps to avoid midnight treks down the dark path to the hootnanny.
That birds of all sorts will appear once the feeder has been refilled.
That my favourite flower is the tiger lily and geraniums smell funny.
That good neighbours come with a candy bowl.
That the comfiest chairs are the ones with the most pillows.
That woodpeckers can be quite annoying, especially when hammering for breakfast on the tin stovepipe.
That the cellar behind the old double doors is a fascinating and different world with its pleasant earthen aura.
That humming birds can fly backwards and up and down.
That on a misty morning when I skip a flat stone across the smooth surface of the lake the ripples will radiate forever.

Memories are what make up a lifetime...

Dancing Tree

2010-02-21T06:35:00.002-07:00

Fire and Ice

2010-02-17T05:48:00.002-07:00

This pic was caught about ten minutes before the top photo was snapped. It is a view of the left sundog from above - the ice crystal layer was about half way down the mountain.

No fancy camera - I just pointed and shooted...

Hot Sultry Smoky

2010-02-09T10:17:00.002-07:00

If you're looking for me ...

2010-01-21T09:37:00.005-07:00

A Good Morning to All

2010-01-06T08:55:00.041-07:00

The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow...
I know, those words have been used before, but dawn today was beautiful and it put me in mind of the Christmas poem by Clement Clarke Moore - the words, dashing and dancing through my head, as I trudged through the snow with a pair of skis slung over my shoulder. Jenny is riding the mountain with her Grade Seven class this week and she needed help carrying her equipment to school - a miniature sleigh would have definitely come in handy.
The temperature dipped to minus twenty through the night - it was clear and the air had a particular zing to it. The sun was still well beneath the horizon and a bright half-moon hung high in the sky, giving a luster of daylight to the mountains below.
Tucker frolicked along with us in the waxing daybreak, running ahead and bounding back, only to dash away once more.

In the nearby woods, the deer watched with their soft, brown eyes - until they spied Tucker. Immediately, there arose a large clatter, and I could sense the prancing and pawing of each tiny hoof as the shy creatures took flight through the trees.
The cold air was refreshing and I was loathe to go indoors when I arrived home. So, I shoveled the rest of the snow from the drive before coming inside to stoke the fire and watch the woodsmoke rise up the chimney.

Earthenware

2010-01-05T11:46:00.009-07:00

It is a difficult thing
to break the mould,
And all the while
remain intact.

Intent

2010-01-03T06:54:00.002-07:00

Poetry clings to me
I must set it free

2010

2010-01-02T07:35:00.002-07:00

I will look forward with the innocence of a child, bringing with me the wisdom of the past.

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T06:57:00.009-07:00

I would like to wish all my dear blogger friends the very best for the coming new year.
We will be spending this evening quietly by the hearth with family, as we celebrate the past and look forward to the future.
No pomp, no parade.
We will greet 2010 with gentleness, care and due respect for what Time has to offer.
May this year bring everyone the profound Joy that is gained through the calmness of Wisdom.

xx

2009-12-23T21:03:00.003-07:00

I Wish all my Dear Friends a very Merry Christmas and a Wonderful Holiday Season!

High School Concert 2009

2009-12-17T09:44:00.007-07:00

Bobby - ready for his first concert performance.

Bob plays the clarinet and has his sights set on advancing to play the saxophone.

... you get the general idea!

Pieces From The Peaks

2009-12-07T09:23:00.013-07:00

A lone kayaker, slicing the calm between frost-laden shores.

Haunting calls from a single black V, as it wings its way through the sapphire cold sky.

Groans, whale songs, rumbles and gunshots echo down the valley as the lake ice settles into slumber.

The sun shows itself - the snow sparkles back.

Sunrise Moon

2009-12-03T11:40:00.002-07:00

Sunday

2009-11-16T06:58:00.009-07:00

Looking up toward Showoff from the base of the mountain.

Some pre-season snowboarders bootpacking up the slope to poach some air!

Oh oh... someone not quite used to winter driving?

Apparently so...

Fortunately the trees caught the vehicle before it ended up in here.

No injuries.

Contrasts

2009-11-10T09:36:00.002-07:00

Lime plant at Exshaw, Alberta

Coal mine at Sparwood, British Columbia

Autumn in the Peaks

2009-11-04T12:34:00.006-07:00

Through the looking glass...

Beau and the pumpin patch.

Jenny and friends...

Just past full...

Alone on the lake.

BOO !

2009-10-31T08:53:00.003-06:00

Hype or Health?

2009-10-29T09:00:00.136-06:00

I am in a bit of a quandary.
My uncertainty is with regards to the H1N1 flu bug that, according to the media, will soon grow to pandemic proportions.
Do I listen to the media?
Or do I follow my own skeptical heart?
For one, I am doubtful and mistrusting of the pharmaceutical industry - that which holds our health care system within its sovereign grip.
Indeed, the science of medicine has come a long way across the past two centuries. It has increased the understanding of how our bodies work on a physical level and how disease affects our bodies on that same plane.
But I believe our health is much more than the sum of those two parts.
It is a whole - an entirety.
A combination of things we can see and feel.
As well as a composition of those that are ethereal and intangible.
There is, too, a difference between the medical industry and the creation of drugs in an attempt to heal us. We have to keep in mind that, for every drug that masks or corrects a symptom, there are side effects - sometimes deadly ones.
This leads to what I feel is another misconception - the idea that our doctor can heal us. A doctor cannot heal us.
We mend ourselves.
We are responsible for our own health and healing - whether it is physical, psychological or spiritual. We do fall ill, that is a truth - some more ill than others and we do what we may, depending upon the circumstances.
But we are in charge, whether we believe it or not.
Secondly, I am very skeptical of the media. Our news has gone from reporting circumstances within our immediate locale, to satisfying a lust for sensation, through vivid detail pertaining to war and famine, to depicting ghastly acts of violence upon each other and warnings of impending pandemics.
All on a global scale.
These accounts have mutated from simply maintaining public awareness to an attempt at keeping us bound within the clutches of fear - the most powerful and perfidious means of control.
Furthermore, it is imperative that we heed and accept our own responsibilities. We have to be culpable for our singular actions - and reactions. Instead of allowing others to dictate, by following along as sheep to slaughter, we are obliged to gather up the reins and steer our own direction - to reason and decide what is best for us on our own terms. Doing this, and doing it within the confines of what is socially acceptable is not easy.
But it must be done.
Life is difficult but, in the end, it will become far more so, as long as we continue to permit outside influences to do the thinking for us.
I could go on and, veritably, I could argue on both sides of the fence. It is a fine line and I have merely scratched the surface.
But again I look back upon my original dilemma...
Do I have my children immunized against swine flu or not?
My instinct, albeit cynical, yet which I trust most implicitly, tells me No.
Then my head speaks to me with the logic of the press, saying Yes - for how could I forgive myself?
I weigh the chances.
I keep myself informed.
But, I do not fear.

Missig...

2009-10-26T15:19:00.004-06:00

I'm ot able to write much.
Well, I guess I still ca but I have a letter o my keyboard that refuses to work.
ow I kow where all those lost socks from the dryer go - somewhere betwee the letters "M" ad "O"!

Homework

2009-10-20T15:14:00.001-06:00

2009-10-16T09:21:00.001-06:00

Smoking Waters

this morning ...

2009-10-14T08:04:00.006-06:00

Bobby had a choice - either bring a load of firewood inside or shovel the walk...

This is the backlash from the storm Grace was experiencing on her wild, northwest coast. The winds off the Pacific are blowing north and the edge of the disturbance is dumping snow farther inland - right on top of us!
This morning Bobby and Jenny could not wait to get out and frolic in the white.
Tucker took one look and did a quick one-eighty back to the house.
The roads are treacherous, with black ice and drivers who have yet to adjust their habits for the poor conditions.
Gene cannot work today, as the shell of the house he is building is under almost four inches of snow.
I am home with Tnu and Jack - a warm fire is radiating from the grate.

A Laurentian Mountain Point of View

2009-10-11T14:27:00.004-06:00

This is the view from Mum and Dads' deck in Quebec. Beth and I just spent ten lovely days visiting with my folks.

It Wasn't Me!

2009-10-09T09:41:00.016-06:00

As a rule, I don't begin praying fervently for snow until the end of November. Therefore, I cannot take the blame for the snowstorm mother nature set upon us last evening. Dusk brought a wind howling down from the north that quickly dipped the thermometer below freezing and dashed thick snowflakes against the window pane. Within minutes two or three inches of snow had blanketed every exposed surface. The storm let up as rapidly as it descended, leaving everyone surprised and shivering in its frosty wake.

If you enlarge the top frame it gives you a good idea...

Fallout Across the Border

2009-10-06T08:59:00.064-06:00

Spiderman, Spiderman,

Does whatever a spider can

Spins a web, any size,

Catches thieves just like flies

Look Out! Here comes the Spiderman.

Is he strong?

Listen bud,

He's got radioactive blood...

Of course, the thought never ocurred to me, but one cannot cross the border into the United States carrying radioactive cargo.

Since the 9/11 scare, security has been tightened quite significantly. No doubt this law is in place to avoid the transport of unstable elements such as Plutonium, Uranium, Strontium, Palladium, Eugene, etc.

Eugene?

Apparently we lit up the Geiger counter as we passed through the border gates on Saturday. My unassuming family van was instantly surrounded by gun-wielding guards with hand held radiation detectors flashing red. They instructed Gene to pull over and informed us that we were "hot".

Luckily, we had been forwarned and Gene produced a letter from his doctor explaining that he would be radioactive for a period of time after undergoing an ECG stress test.

We were quickly separated as a border officer guided Eugene to a small room where he monitored his radiation levels. The officer also asked him questions regarding the stress test and gathered other information before allowing us entry into the country. Meanwhile, my vehicle was searched and I, too, was "Geiger counted", but we were green to go.

Fortunately, radioactivity is not contagious!

The crossing back into Canada the following day was less eventful, with only having to fill out a declaration and make a duty payment on some items we purchased while in the US.

reprint - for lack of time and slow dial-up...

2009-09-25T12:03:00.003-06:00

Through the smoke of distant fire
Drawn into the dusky sky
Growing stronger - rising higher
There it met my eye
Its glow was sure - a firey red
A pagan sight it's true
From the sleeping sun it fed
And yet it was quite blue

Any idea what it is?

A Study in Pink

2009-09-18T08:15:00.011-06:00

I took this photo early today.

As the sun rose, it caught the clouds at an unusual angle.

The eerie morning light illuminated the landscape, creating a surreal glow that reflected itself from the wet surface of the deck.

Tucker also appeared to be enjoying the moment.

Stewed Red Tomatoes

2009-09-17T13:05:00.023-06:00

It's Fall. And the nesting urge is upon me.

As the days grow shorter and the winds blow colder, I feel I must reap and gather. Although I don't have a vegetable garden per se, I do have a selection of tiny, green plastic pots bearing fruit. Well, in this case, tomatoes... which, arguably, are indeed a fruit - but I use them in a vegetable context...
These tiny, green plastic pots were purchased through Jenny's school to help raise money for her class trip to Quebec next spring. The entire idea being, that the plants growing in these tiny, green plastic pots be transplanted to a traditional garden or large planter. In my case, this did not happen. I moved into my new home this spring, and the idea of hoisting a large bottom-half-of-a-barrel filled with soil and seedlings was not appealing at all. So, there the wee plants remained - in the tiny, green plastic pots.
Throughout the summer I tenderly cared for the tiny flora. The dill discontinued, the cilantro croaked and the basil breathed its last. The parsley promised not to perish, but the tomatoes triumphed!
There they were - four of the most-cherished vegetablefruit in the valley.
Today, I swept down upon them. I reaped and I gathered. Then I cooked.
I don't know if I can eat them now...

After the Harvest

The End Result

2009-09-15T17:25:00.002-06:00

In Memory of Patrick Swayze...

2009-09-13T11:07:00.000-06:00

Tucker

Why.

2009-09-09T08:07:00.108-06:00

Skiing B1st in 2006.

Each year, we look forward to winter and, along with it, our preferred sport - alpine skiing. We do, of course, enjoy everything the other three seasons our temperate zone offers up, but our true passion lies among the folds of the snow-covered hills.

Spring reveals growth and renewal - an efflorescent season of rebirth, delivering possibilites and potential.

Summer settles into relaxed freedom - escorting a period of sultry peacefulness while fashioning maturity.

Autumn, spring's reverse counterpart, declares further change - with the achievement of growth, it dictates reaping and gathering, while heralding a period of slumber.

Winter, a span during which the land is in repose - bearing with it a blanket of colder temperatures - and snow.

As members of the ski industry, we depend upon it. Without snow we would be unable to satisfy our urge, and other's, to glide over the packed and sweep through the powder. Elements of physical fitness and a sense of well-being are addictive, as is the resulting adrenalin rush.
The social aspect of this mountain sport is important, as well. There is nothing quite like the muffled resonance of whoops and hollers from like-minded enthusiasts, as we make our way through the the trees on the backside (and, hopefully, not our backside) of the mountain. This is an individual sport but, to share it with a friend, or several, most certainly adds to the fun - and can be handy if one finds themself in a tight spot.

Once the lifts have closed, and the patrollers have done their final sweep, the communal feel will often spill over into apres ski. Stiff boots are replaced with comfortable hikers and bulky ski suits substituted by soft, warm woollies and fleece. Refreshments, hot and cold, are held high beside the fire in honour of the moment, followed by boasts and embellishments of the day's adventures. Tired and happy souls will soon make the trek down the mountain, home to warm dinners and snug beds.

Only the fortunate few get to rise early, braving the frigid morning air, to do it all again!

When the cat's away...

2009-09-08T14:18:00.006-06:00

Beau in front of the fire - notice his short front legs.

... should I worry?
I thought we had lost Beau over the weekend.
He is such a bold and friendly kitty and I was sure that had landed him in trouble.
He disappeared for more than a day and I feared he had been scooped by a weekend visitor and whisked away to the city.
A good example of Beau's bold attitude is, just the other evening, we were out at the front of the house watching a doe and her twin fawns feeding on the empty lot across the road.
Beau caught sight of them, crouched down in the tall grass, wiggled his back legs and pounced, right into the nose of the mama deer! She just looked at Beau, with her big doe eyes, and sniffed noses with him.
Imagine! Wee Beau attempting to take down a deer who's head alone was larger than his body!
Beau did return last evening, none the worse for wear, although he is favouring his right front leg. There were many people about over the long weekend and I think he just went visiting - after all, it wasn't nearly as exciting here as it was several doors down...
Now that all the action has passed, he appears content staying at home.

Wait Ten Minutes...

2009-09-07T08:23:00.023-06:00

I awoke this morning to frigid feet and a nose fit for an eskimo kiss.
After last week's heat, with wild storms and rain, one might think this would be a welcome respite.
Could it not have waited just one more day?
It's presently the last twenty-four hours of the summer holidays and many are hoping to lounge in and about the lake. A couple of hardy souls are out this morning, braving the single-digit temperatures, but, other than the accompanying whitecaps, the lake is quiet.
A fire is now roaring in the fireplace as I sit with my coffee. Patched sunlight is creeping down the mountainside across the valley and will soon slide across my deck. Tattered clouds are sweeping from the south, banking ominously above the northern horizon, and the wind is tossing the leaves about.
A fresh snowfall caps the peaks.

We have a saying in the mountains:
If you don't like the weather,
Wait ten minutes.
It will change.

Wind Over Windermere

2009-09-03T14:20:00.015-06:00

The wicked southwest gale brought trees down all over Windermere. Huge willows, that have been standing for years, were scattered like matchsticks and once stately pines were split into halves, as though snapped by the hands of a giant.
A second wind storm - no rain this time - blasted down from the north in the early evening, wreaking further havoc. I was in town at the time and returned to find my deck in shambles.
My large, heavy corn plant had been tossed onto its side and was surrounded by dirt and scattered pebbles. The comforter from my outside couch had blown completely free and was wedged against the railing at the other end. The tablecloth would have completely disappeared, had it not been held down by my Christmas cactus - a hardy little fellow. The only reason my bike was still standing was because I had it cabled to the rail and my flowers were also spared, as they are located at the southern end of the deck.
Wild weather, indeed!

How many different ways can you say...

2009-08-31T14:31:00.023-06:00

...I hear, or see, a train?

Sandpoint Idaho has to be the iron horse capital of the world!
Apparently, no less than forty to sixty locomotives pass through that town on a daily basis.

Last weekend, every time one passed by, I couldn't help but jest about their ubiquitous presence - without using the word train...

I hear something.
Can you feel that?
What's that noise?
There must be an earthquake.
Is that a helicopter?
Another tractor-trailer unit must be passing through town...(an entirely different post).
Can you hear that?
What's that banging?
I hear a whistle.
What are those lights?
What's that screeching?
The ground is shaking.
WHAT DID YOU SAY?

I have always found trains facinating:
Their power.
Their noise.
Where are they going?
Where are they coming from?
What are they hauling?
I can't help pausing to listen and watch every time one rolls by, shrieking and pounding, along the rails.

A helicopter flew directly over our heads yesterday morning...
"Oh, look, a train!"

Manx A Lot

2009-08-23T12:16:00.033-06:00

Beau and Jenny.

After a certain amount of head-scratching, followed up by some concrete research, I discovered we've inherited no ordinary kitty.
It turns out that Beau is a Manx cat.
Manx are typically known for being "tailless", yet their tails do come in all lengths. In order to avoid a certain genetic defect, where the spine is too short causing severe problems, breeders will always incorporate a tailed cat in their breeding program.
Other characteristics of this type of feline include shorter front legs, a broad chest, a plush, "double" coat of fur, a longer-shaped head with ears set far apart, prominent cheekbones and large, slanted eyes - all of which Beau possesses.
Beau does have a long tail, but the odd thing is that he cannot hold it straight in the air. Rather, it will flop over, quite comically, from side to side, wagging awkwardly when he walks.
Another distinguishing attribute is Beau's penchant for playing in water. He loves helping when I water my flowers and he will actually roll in any spills and puddles. I've also had to put his water in a sturdy dog bowl, so he won't knock it over and play in it - or vice versa. I've often discovered Beau soaking wet, and he appears quite content being so. Apparently, he'd rather jump in than drink it! This, too, is another profound characteristic of the Manx breed.
So, there it is - the long and the short of it...
Beau's odd looks and remarkable behaviours have been explained.
Thus far...

This little piggy went to market ...

2009-08-22T13:26:00.006-06:00

The weekly Farmers' Market was a feast for the eyes, nose, tastebuds - and sore feet.

We wandered through stands loaded with fresh fruit, vegetables and bakery items, arts and crafts, hand-made jewelry, trinkets and carvings. Buskers were on every corner, sending their soft melodies out to wind through the marketplace and the aromas of brewing coffee, baking breads and hamburgers twisted tantalisingly about our heads.

I came home with ten pounds of baby potatoes, a bunch of carrots, two huge green onions, half a dozen cobs of corn, three pounds of tomatoes, one large English cucumber, two cloves of locally-grown garlic, a baby yellow watermelon, a pint of juicy blackberries and four loaves of different Artisan breads...

August ...

2009-08-20T16:38:00.008-06:00

Mama deer and babies.

Colleen and daughter, Trina.

Lake Windermere.

Hidden Bay beach.

C'est Beau...

R.I.P.

2009-08-19T07:45:00.007-06:00

Two days ago Ian, Eugene's older son, discovered Smoke in his favourite shady spot.
It appears Smoke lay down and crossed the Rainbow Bridge in peace.
He is now at rest on a sunny hillside next to Henrietta.
I also believe that Scat crossed the same Bridge several weeks ago, but we will never know for sure.

Rest in Peace Scat and Smoke - we love you.

Enjoy yourselves as you bask in the sunlight, pounce on field mice and chase butterflies...

2009-08-17T14:06:00.003-06:00

Beth and Tucker up Pedley Pass - elevation approximately 4,000 feet.

Smoke

2009-08-06T17:28:00.022-06:00

Eugene has a cat - a very old and beautiful cat.

His name is Smoke and he has been in Gene's family going on twenty years now.

Alas, old Smoke is looking toward the Rainbow Bridge, I am afraid.

Gene came over today and asked if I would take a look at his lovely grey tom. It was heartbreaking to see his rheumy eyes, matted coat, distended belly and to feel his bones, sharp and protruding, beneath his skin. Smoke was calm and he looked up with trusting eyes as I held him in my lap on the drive to the vet clinic.

Of course, at his age, the prognosis is not good - cancer or congestive heart failure is the apparent diagnosis. We could do the heroics and spend a fortune in vet bills, but Gene and I both want to see him live out his days the way nature intended. So, the vet gave him an injection for dehydration, a steroid to make him feel perkier and some ointment for his eyes.

When we got Smoke home, he lept from my arms and headed for a the shade where I fed him a bowl of canned salmon. He has had such a difficult time eating lately, that it was good to see him enjoy a meal. No more cat food for Smoke - canned tuna and salmon from now on.

We hope that, when his time comes, Smoke will wander off and find a sheltered spot with a view where he can lay himself down.

It seems that our furry friends are leaving us as quickly as they are finding us.

Take care, Smoke.

Fur flying everywhere...

2009-08-05T12:11:00.012-06:00

Jack

Tippy

Beau

I simply could not resist!

Jack, so named, because my kids were watching a Jack Black movie when we got him, is a multi-coloured Abyssinian guinea pig. Tippy, named for the white tip on her right ear, is a rabbit of unknown breeding and the kitten, Beau, is the result of a brother and sister pairing. Beau has bowed front legs, either a result of inbreeding or possibly an inherited dwarf gene. The only pet we actually purchased was Jack and the other two are rescue animals. We decided to buy Jack, because we could not find any guinea pigs that were up for surrender in town.

Murphy's Law promptly kicked in and there are now four guinea pigs up for adoption...

We are also looking at adopting a Brittany Spaniel through the National Brittany Rescue and Adoption Network in the United States. I am waiting to hear a reply to my inquiry as to any Brittanys that are available, suitable and whether adopting internationally is feasible. It would be so nice to be able to offer a good home for some of those orphaned (young and old) dogs.

We have our hands full now and are looking for a sizeable hutch for the Jack and Tippy. At the moment, they are in a cage divided with cooling racks held together with twist ties!

Necessity is indeed the mother of invention.

I love these furry creatures and I often wish I lived in a place where I could take them all in! Alas, that is not to be, but I will rejoice with the ones who have found a home with us.

Sunset

2009-08-03T19:30:00.002-06:00

August 1, 2009

2009-08-02T17:02:00.003-06:00

A Wedding and Things

2009-07-31T15:50:00.018-06:00

Tnu

We are off to Stephanie and Tonys' wedding tomorrow!
I've searched out the perfect gift, assembled two summer salads and banged out a long list to assist my feeble, menopausal mind...
I also managed to secure affordable lodging in a little settlement with the dubious name of Dead Man's Flats. There is a story as to how that place got its name, but it escapes me right now.
Note to Self: must get hold of Walter Morris...
This is a the busiest long weekend of the year and we will be traveling from one tourist destination to another. The highway will be crazy, with a capital C, but we hope to miss most of the traffic by leaving early. We will, no doubt, still be held up by the ubiquitous bear, elk, deer and coyote jams, as visitors stop along the shoulder of the road, jostling for the best photo opportunity.
Thus, our traveling motto is; "No Hurry".
The weather is still hot and unusually muggy, causing evening thunderstorms of threatening proportions. Last night lightning struck several hundred yards away around the shoulder of the hill. It sent Tnu and me scurrying - and Eugene laughing...
A couple of minutes later, we heard sirens (police or ambulance) followed by the blasting horn of the local fire truck as it left the station. We still don't know what the outcome was, but we are certain it was in response to the fact that lightning struck in a relatively populated area.

Um, like next door...
Clouds are gathering along the edge of the valley as I speak (er, so to speak) and it looks like it might be another eventful nightfall.
Who needs TV when I have mother nature at the doorstep?
I've also been kept occupied with continued unpacking and setting up house. I have most of the big stuff done, but the smaller touches take a mite longer.
And the aquarium and my desk are still countering for position...
I've been tending my planter garden on the deck, registering Bobby for summer camp, hosting a myriad of sleep-overs, shopping at the Farmer's Market, doing as little cooking as possible in the heat and doing as much as possible to stay cool.
Speaking of which, we are off to the beach before lightning strikes again...

Last Evening

2009-07-28T09:36:00.001-06:00

... and did I mention the graveyard?

2009-07-27T14:14:00.009-06:00

Now that I am firmly ensconced in my new home, I can dig deeper and find time to download more photos.
I did mention that my new house has a lovely wrap-around deck with expansive lake and mountain views. What I neglected to indicate is that the local cemetary is directly below me on a bluff along the lake shore. It is one of the most picturesque burial grounds I have ever encountered. It's also quite interesting the number of people I see, on a daily basis, wandering among the modest headstones and markers.
Our swimming beach is just below the dirt track that climbs a side hill from the shore to the cemetery gate, and I can float on my back while looking up at some of the taller gravestones.
I assure you it's anything but morbid.
Rather, it's a lovely resting place encompassed by a quiet sense of peace.

Birthdays and Baked Potatoes

2009-07-24T10:55:00.003-06:00

This morning I'm busy making salads and such, because we're celebrating an important birthday.
Beth is turning nineteen tomorrow!
It's an important milestone for her, as she'll become the age of majority. Now Beth will be recognised as an adult under the law, be able to vote provicially and, more importantly, she'll be able to grace the local pub with her presence.
Another birthday we are heralding in is that of Rachel Fuller. I don't know exactly how old she turned today, but I do know I still have a few years on her!
The weather has been so hot this week that cooking has become something of a distant memory. Hence, the salads being made at such an early hour in the day. I did buy some (Jenny's tooth just fell out...) steaks and will be grilling them on the barbeque, but everything else will be cold!
Other than the fact that, like Grace, I feel similar to one - absolutely no baked potatoes!

Passion

2009-07-22T15:03:00.029-06:00

My name is Midnight Raven.
My passion is Freedom.
I fly with the eagles and the ospreys.
I sail upon unfurled wings.
I feel the wind in my face
and laugh
and cry.
And in the presence of fear
I soar
higher and higher
farther and farther.
And exalt in the face of that fear.
I live
and I thrive
as I ride the mistral.
I am Midnight Raven.
And my essence is Freedom.

And I Moved

2009-07-05T09:04:00.001-06:00

... but I moved toward Me!

1

2009-07-04T11:42:00.001-06:00