Today’s Projects are Tomorrow’s Memories

by | Aug 17, 2018 | 0 comments

Hey everyone! I want to share a little story about how I discovered the true beauty of handmade gifts and the precious memories they hold. It was around 2002, a couple of years after my mom passed away, when I stumbled upon this plastic canvas pattern for a memory box. The moment I saw it, I knew it was the perfect thing to make for my dad.

Making that box was a journey of love, really. Every stitch took me on a trip down memory lane, sifting through all kinds of memories, both joyful and bittersweet, all the while hoping my dad would love this special gift.

Creating the box turned out to be quite an enjoyable task, even the bit where I had to figure out the hardware and reinforce it with felt-covered foam board for stability. The toughest part, though, was choosing two of the few precious photos I had of my parents together, enjoying their travels out East. I was just a little one when they took that trip, but those photos mean the world to me.

Below is a close-up of the hinge hardware. Remember those paper clips we used in school to bind pages together? The brass ones that looked like they had two legs which would be bent outward? I used those to attach the hinges and I think it worked very well.

After Dad died I found the memory box on his dresser and do you know what I found in it? Memories! A full set of Canadian Centennial coins from the year I was born, (for non-Canadians that would be 1967) and a cassette tape with his voice. HIS VOICE! It’s irritating that I don’t have anything to play it on. I’ll have to borrow some equipment and digitize it so I can share with my siblings.

This memory box sits on its own shelf in my living room where I can see it everyday and it’s strangely comforting. I know Dad loved this gift. His face lit up when he unwrapped it, examined it and in an emotional voice just said, “Thank you.” That’s all he needed to say.

When we give from our hearts it’s felt by others and it’s cherished.

Until next time friends…

My First London Pride Parade!

by | Jul 30, 2018 | 0 comments

Hey everyone! I want to share a little story about how my daughter and I unexpectedly found ourselves at Pride this year. We had planned just to hang out downtown, completely unaware that it was the day of the Pride parade. I only realized it when my bus had to take a detour.

Stepping off the bus, I noticed the stormy sky and hoped to dodge the rain. My daughter had the same thought and suggested we wait it out at a new coffee shop. Though I can’t recall its name and forgot to snap photos (oops!), the place was lovely, and the iced tea was fantastic! I was just so excited to catch up with my daughter after weeks apart that the name of the coffee shop slipped my mind.

We sat there, chatting away and sipping our drinks, watching others get caught in the rain and sharing a laugh about our good fortune. When the rain let up, we decided to brave the parade, confident we wouldn’t melt in the drizzle.

Approaching the parade route, we were greeted by a sea of colourful, cheerful people, undeterred by the rain. The atmosphere was vibrant with music and laughter, but there were a few protesters too, with police nearby ensuring everything stayed peaceful. Interestingly, off-duty officers were also part of the parade, donning pink shirts and looking quite cute!

The parade was a celebration of peace and love, and it was heartwarming to see everyone so happy and friendly. It’s a shame that some people can’t move past their prejudices, but hey, all that negativity can’t be good for anyone. Once the parade started, the music and cheers drowned out any dissenting voices.

I admit, I didn’t take many photos – I was just so caught up in the fun and excitement! People were dancing, handing out beads and candies, and no one minded getting a bit wet from the Super-Soakers and mist sprayers on the floats. The atmosphere was incredibly positive and inclusive.

It was amazing to see groups like the Teacher’s Union and Scouts, who might not have participated a decade ago, now fully embracing the event with bright colours and high spirits. It’s a sign of growing acceptance, and it gives me hope for the future in other areas like race and ethnicity.

The parade ended with a much-anticipated appearance by the firemen – let’s just say, they did not disappoint! As the crowd dispersed, my daughter and I strolled through Victoria Park, taking in all the sights and booths. It was a day where the extraordinary became ordinary, and it made me wish every day could be that open and accepting.

Eventually, real life called, and we parted ways, feeling happy and content to have shared such a wonderful experience. I’m definitely planning to be back next year, and who knows, maybe I’ll join in and deck myself out too!

Until next time friends…

Why Do I love Kayaking So Much?

by | Jul 9, 2018 | 0 comments

So, I’ve been chatting non-stop about kayaking, and it occurred to me that I haven’t really shared the story behind my passion for this amazing sport. And it’s all thanks to @shadowspub!

Growing up, our family of seven was all about camping during the summer vacations. That is, until 1976, when my parents bought a general store in Castleton. With the store came a new lifestyle and, sadly, an end to our family camping adventures.

Some of my fondest memories are from camping at places like Algonquin, Bon Echo, Balsam Lake, Killbear, and Sharbot Lake. It was at Sharbot Lake where my love for paddling first began. Our campsite had this charming little path down to the lake, and one morning, @shadowspub and I sneaked out for my very first paddle. I was about five or six, and every paddle stroke created sparkles on the water like hundreds of diamonds. It was so peaceful and magical, and I remember trying to follow a loon as it dived and resurfaced. It was a fun game, guessing where it would pop up next!

Fast forward a bit, and we’re living by a small lake near Haliburton. My hubby and I got this old 14-foot canoe. It was a bit overkill for our pond-like lake, but we had the best time spotting wildlife, like the legendary Moby Dick, the muskie who loved to shake our dock while we fished. Those were some great times!

Life took another turn when my hubby passed away, and things were pretty hectic for a while. But then, life brought me to London, where I met my current hubby, started a business, and got a trailer in Port Bruce by Lake Erie. That’s when my kayaking journey really began. A friend lent me an inflatable kayak, and I was instantly in love with paddling along the shore and up the river. When my trusty kayak finally gave out, I knew it was time for an upgrade.

That same year, my dad got sick and passed away. Amidst that tough time, I received some wonderful news – I was going to be a Nana! The realization hit me when I saw @dezziq one morning, and it was such an exciting time. Over the winter, I dove into researching kayaks and, with some inheritance money, I got my current inflatable kayak and gear. I’m so grateful for the thought I put into choosing the right kayak. It’s been my trusty companion for 12 years now, and every time I inflate it, I feel a sense of gratitude to my dad.

Apollo in the Kayak

Kayaking is more than just a hobby; it’s a unique experience every time. It’s never the same, and that’s what makes it so special. Do any of you have a passion that means the world to you? I’d love to hear about it!

Until next time friends…

@simgirl and @snook’s Bad Karaoke Contest

by | May 28, 2018 | 0 comments

I finally faced my fear and made a Bad Karaoke video. It’s not great but it’s filmed on Fanshawe Lake in my kayak so the scenery is nice.

I’ve always admired @snook and @simgirl‘s contest. The people who enter always seem to be having fun but if you know me then you know I’m the introvert’s introvert but I want to support this awesome initiative. So….this is for all of you.

BTW: I still think you should call it Bad Ass Karaoke. AND…. I may have swore a few times…just so you know. LOL

Until next time friends…

Hanging Out with Apollo – Shot of the Day

by | May 27, 2018 | 0 comments

This photo was snapped about eight and a half years ago and is one of my favourite shots of Apollo. He was three and always happy to play outside with his Nana. Actually, he is still happy to come play with his Nana, with a camera in his hand. LOL

I almost used this shot a couple of times with text along the top for a fall themed photo but it just didn’t feel right. I mean, I think this would be safe to use. It doesn’t show his face but at the time it didn’t seem safe. What are your thoughts about sharing photos of your kids and safety? Everyone seems to do it with no worries. Am I too overprotective?

Here’s another shot from that day. It’s a little blurry and the reflections on the glasses are rather distracting but look at that face! I could be a little biased.

Take a good look at his coat! I loved this coat because it had schematics all over it. Well it had traces anyway. LOL! My husband started showing Apollo basic schematic symbols just around this time because of his coat. Man kids are like sponges… they just slurp up the knowledge.

It was around this time that Apollo started learning how to beat box. He was born with Stickler’s Syndrome, a connective tissue disorder, so his Mom, @dezziq has always encouraged any interests which don’t include strenuous activity such as contact sports.

Apollo is now 11 and I think he’s an awesome beat boxer. A while back he very confidently performed when he opened for a group called Dead Celebrity Status at a local venue. (I can’t find my pics from that night but I’ll keep looking through my drives until I find them then I’ll share!)

I’m going to church with the boys tomorrow….. yes…..I said it…church. If you know me then you know this is not a common Sunday morning routine for me but tomorrow is special. Who knows what shenanigans we will get up to.

How did I get way over here from there? Is this what a “free write” is? LOL!! Thanks for reading.

Until next time friends…