Daniel's View

Treasure Chest for February 2012

2012-02-27T06:17:00.001-05:00

A new post before I board the plane to Orlando, Florida.

All in the Family

Rich man, poor man.

Guess who's coming to dinner

Migration or Immigration?

Captcha to ReCaptcha etc.

2012-02-25T20:10:00.000-05:00

Please set aside a little time to gain a better understanding of WHY it exists and its evolution.

Thereafter you might see why I and so many others are disabling this layer of security on their respective Blogs. Its application and usage can be counter productive to Blog Followers.

Besides, you can enable the Comment Moderation option to weed out spam and distasteful comments.

On the flip side, there are other developments (read: spin-offs) going on today.

Want to learn more, visit www.captcha.com

Urban and Country Life

2012-02-24T21:37:00.000-05:00

As I travel the back roads in and around my new home, I am constantly reminded of the beauty that exists everywhere. There was a time when I didn't see with eyes wide open the beauty that surrounds us all.

An old abandoned house in the country.

On a different level, some photos capture events, situations and behaviours that many may find offensive, disgusting and uncomfortable with. Where do you stand? Ignore, voice your opinion, right of self-expression? Use the following scenario, photographs of homeless, urban decay, drunkenness, night life, drugs, prostitution. Would photographs taken under these circumstances be okay?

Share your point of view and I in-turn will share mine.

Prominent Country Figures

2012-02-24T01:21:00.000-05:00

He watches over the fields in a 'calm assertive' manner. He is a noble animal who enjoys the rigors of his duties as much as curling up at your feet. A dedicated and loving companion.

Who can resist a curly red head...

Photo-cold and Refreshing

2012-02-21T23:47:00.000-05:00

Winterlicious

2012-02-21T10:25:00.000-05:00

Generations of Silos

2012-02-21T01:50:00.000-05:00

Amherst Island, Ontario, Canada

Like what you see, then head on over to Barn Charm for this weeks edition.

Snowfall and Hungry Jays

2012-02-19T14:15:00.000-05:00

Treasure Chest for Feb 20-12

2012-02-15T03:57:00.000-05:00

Part of Our Backyard

Farmland Structures

2012-02-14T18:02:00.001-05:00

Some of these structures are located on Amherst Island. To get there, you must take the ferry.

Open Concept

Sun-Kissed

Winter Colour

Amherst Island Hay Barn

Like what you see, then head on over to Barn Charm for this weeks edition.

Sandbanks

2012-02-13T09:43:00.000-05:00

Within the borders of Prince Edward County lies the popular and unique Sandbanks Provincial Park. Its claim to fame are its sand dunes.

Breaking News!

2012-02-09T15:16:00.002-05:00

Due to health issues, I had to make the difficult decision to sell my camera gear. I was fortunate to find someone who wanted to purchase all my equipment. Now I have the challenge of finding a Point and Shoot also known as a Compact camera replacement that I can manage.

I'm seriously considering the Nikon Coolpix 510 seen above. This camera has many of the features I'm looking for, but is lacking RAW. There isn't any one Point and Shoot/Compact camera that has everything in one package. I suppose this will be part of my challenge. On the plus side, it's a light weight camera that will allow me to get back to taking photos again.

Note: these items are available for purchase.

SOLD Nikon D80 camera body
SOLD Ikelite underwater housing (6808.1) for Nikon D80
SOLD 8 inch dome and port body (5510.45 and 5510.22 ) for Nikon wide angle 12-24mm lens
SOLD Flat Port (5505.5 port ) for Nikon Macro 105mm lens
AVAILABLE Two DS125 substrobes from Ikelite
SOLD Pelican 1510 carry-on case to transport the housing and sub-strobes

Please send any questions you may have to: danielDOTlafranceATgmailDOTcom

p.s. I apologize for not visiting any blogs lately.

Wanderlust

2012-02-06T14:25:00.000-05:00

A Day Dreamers Paradise

Coyote Tracks

More Tracks

Natures Bedding

Cattail or Natures Cigar

Track Marking in Crystal

Waters Edge

Our First Walking Trail

Central America

2012-02-05T02:11:00.001-05:00

These are some photographs I took on a dive trip to an island off the coast of Honduras, Central America.

Truly honoured to have been selected. Thank you very much Hilary!

I encourage everyone to visit The Smitten Image and see for yourself why it is such a highly regarded blog.

Fairy Basslet

Rock Beauty

Christmas Tree Worms growing on Maze Coral

Underwater Landscape

Scrawled Filefish

Long-snout Seahorse

Blue Planet

2012-02-03T03:10:00.000-05:00

This photo-video is a compilation of underwater photographs I took over several dive trips to the Caribbean and the Atlantic.

I know some of you may have already seen this, but most haven't. From where I sit, these images are timeless. Sadly my diving days are drawing to a close, due to some health issues.

I hope you enjoy the slide-show! :

Beauty is Skin Deep

2012-01-31T00:26:00.000-05:00

I've discovered that barns cannot be judged by looks alone. Many barns on the surface appear so rough looking that they'd be condemned. Nothing could be further from the truth! While many are collapsing, others are being dismantled. The barn boards and hand-hewn beams are then sold for a pretty penny. Tin and sheet metal roofs are sold for scrap metal. However, many of these old barns are still being used for farming, while others are used for storage, shops, studios, etc.

If you fancy these Barns, mosey on over to Barn Charm 70 for more. Enjoy!

You're invited to...

2012-01-29T03:21:00.000-05:00

Post your suggestion(s) for a 'caption' to go with this photo. Everyone is welcome.

Beautiful and clever clams from 3 seasons asked the 4th. "what are you doing here?"
before it left on a sedimentary journey, riding a beautiful tide.

The winning caption was a seven way tie, resulting in a 'unique' caption.

Thank you all!!!

Birdhouse City

2012-01-28T13:12:00.000-05:00

Have you ever entertained the thought you may have overlooked sights, architecture, anything historic, parks, events, festivals in your own backyard? I know I have! Since relocating to the County, we decided on making our own 'Discover the County' road trips. It is an adventure, and affordable too!

Birdhouse City is located within the boundaries of Picton, Ontario.

County Road 8 (Union Street, on the eastern outskirts of Picton) Birdhouse City, located at Macaulay Mountain Conservation area, has attracted thousands of people. There are over 100 birdhouses, most of them reproductions of local historic buildings and other recognizable buildings.

The idea is fantastic, and it may inspire you to create your own bird house project. You're creating a home for our feathered friends. Besides, there are no hard fast rules. Just have fun!

Tip: you could source wood scraps from construction sites or neighbours just cleaning out their garage, basement, or shed.

Which One are You?

2012-01-27T15:34:00.000-05:00

If you were a farm animal shown in this post, which one would you be and why?

I hope you participated and enjoyed our "Which One are You" game. The game helps us learn how to be a little more introspective while having a little fun. Laughter is great medicine and we all could use a little more in our lives... don't you agree?

On the Rocks

2012-01-25T02:42:00.000-05:00

And it's on the branches too!

Wondrous Winter

2012-01-23T09:35:00.000-05:00

Linked to Barn Charm 69

Ancient and Modern Elements

2012-01-21T23:58:00.002-05:00

January 20-12 Treasure Chest

2012-01-18T02:29:00.000-05:00

Barn Buffet

2012-01-17T02:52:00.000-05:00

Pick your favourite barn and tell us why it's your favourite. One word answers such as 'cuz' etc. would be considered as valuable as a parent asking their child/teen/husband "where are you going?" and getting the following answer "out". Now that we've established the ground rules; don't be shy, jump right on in. It will get better, trust me.

If barns are your thing or you're just barn curious, then be sure to check out Barn Charm 68. The best part of this adventure is that you can share the experience with friends and family.

Long Tail Beauties

2012-01-15T02:56:00.000-05:00

These lovely diving ducks were captured during a lull in the snow storm.

Club Goose

2012-01-15T02:22:00.000-05:00

Windy Winter Blast

2012-01-14T11:30:00.000-05:00

In the country, great open spaces is the norm. It is also the perfect environment for snow-drifts and white-outs that can limit visibility.

The wind played a melancholy song.

Lonely Headlights

Deserted Road

Hay raising weather!

Calm before the Storm

2012-01-13T14:47:00.001-05:00

Great Open Spaces

Former One Room School

Mansard Roof Home

Nice looking beaver lodge; I wonder if anyone enjoys eating Beaver tails ?

Mooving to a BBQ near you

Made in Canada

Freezing...

2012-01-12T21:58:00.000-05:00

I don't mind winter at all, in fact I enjoy it within certain limits. You know, everything in moderation. Those limits include temperatures that exceed -40, when winter drags on month after month, winter fatigue kicks in. Lastly, freezing rain has to be worst thing. It's even worst when followed by a flash freeze! It causes havoc in so many ways. It's impossible to drive, it typically damages plants, knocks out electricity and makes it nearly impossible to walk outdoors.

Note: The images in this post were all taken on our property. It made no sense to risk a car accident by driving anywhere.

Maybe a trip to the sunny south would be in order. :)

Rural Buildings

2012-01-09T23:44:00.000-05:00

Linda of The Road Awaits Me blog honoured and presented me with the Candle Lighter Award. Thank you Linda.

Another contribution to the ever popular Barn Charm Series.

Pick One

2012-01-08T03:46:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's outing was invigorating and sunny, but the winds on the water were bitterly cold. I knew the results of this outing had a little bit of 'this and that' and I just couldn't pick one. So it's a mixed bag. I hope you enjoy them.

Just a few visitors

Long-tail Duck

What's his name

Pretty Place

Wham!

Location, Location, Location

Imagine the tree being a Palm Tree :)

Time Fades Away

2012-01-07T00:47:00.000-05:00

I'm sure most of you have heard this many times, 'Life is too short". It may sound like an overused cliché, but those simple words are true. Make the most of your time before it runs out. If you're the type of person who keeps putting off 'whatever', I hope you will reconsider your position.

Cars in Barns - Vol I

2012-01-06T08:19:00.000-05:00

1947 Chrysler Windsor

Suicide Doors

Here's what the barn-car might look like if restored.

Do Blondes Have More Fun?

2012-01-04T17:55:00.000-05:00

These girls seem pretty giddy and ready to party!

On the Road Again

2012-01-02T23:59:00.000-05:00

When you explore new territory, you never know what you might discover.

Like what you see? Then head on over to Barn Charm 66 for a whole lot more.

December Afternoon - A Photo Video

2012-01-01T01:23:00.002-05:00

This is a repost of a previous entry. It's one that I'm proud of and I hope you will take a few minutes to watch and perhaps comment on it too. It represents a collection of photographs I took in the month of December at a local park when I still resided in the big city.

The photo video is set to music. I encourage you to listen to the accompanying sound track.

December Afternoon from Daniel LaFrance on Vimeo.

Is this LaLaLand?

2011-12-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Rural Barriers

2011-12-29T06:30:00.000-05:00

Zigzag or straight, wood, stone and metal fences have for the most part kept livestock in and unwanted guests out. Rural fences are indeed part of the rural landscape.

County Scenes

2011-12-27T15:18:00.000-05:00

Life in the Country tends to go by at a pace many city folks would consider slow. It certainly is slower, but it can be hectic at times too. I think it is a healthy pace compared to the alternatives for myself.

If you're interested, share your thoughts on how these images make you feel. Some folks find it helps if they imagine themselves being present in each image. Give it a whirl!

Junk, Relic or Vintage Classic

2011-12-21T01:49:00.000-05:00

1958 Dodge Crusader

1957 Oldsmobile

Rusty Ride II

2011-12-19T09:55:00.003-05:00

I revisited the spot where I had found the original Rusty Ride. I took a different approach by attaching my wide angle lens. The thought process was simple, I wanted more artistic opportunities and perhaps note a make, model or year in the process. The latter didn't panned out as I had hoped, but I was able to discern some information that may be of some interest.

We had received a fair bit of rain preceding this visit, so I wore my rubber boots. I'm thankful I did! It allowed me to approach the truck from a variety of angles. I'm not as nimble as I used to be due to some hardware in my spine. Some of my methods for getting up and down may seem odd to strangers. lol

This particular photo allowed me to identify the truck as a Fargo. I was not familiar with name and did a little Google and found both Chrysler and Dodge have direct links to the FARGO brand name. It must have had a good reputation, there's a Racoon's Stamp (paw print) of approval on the tire.

There are a number of other artifacts scattered on the property. Most of which I don't recognize.

Rusty Ride

2011-12-15T16:02:00.001-05:00

Clear your mind and exhale. Now take a deep breath AND exhale S L O W L Y.

Feeling better? Do it again until you're feeling mellow. If you find yourself at breath number 13 and you're still not feeling a little relaxed... pour yourself a drink and play along.

After drink number two, close your eyes and imagine your driving this hot looking flat-bed truck pictured below and let your imagination run wild. If you're game, share your thoughts in a comment.

Past, Present and Future Barns

2011-12-14T11:54:00.000-05:00

A slice of life from the past, the present and the future.

Past

Present

New Building for a New Winery - Future

Like what you see? Then head on over to Barn Charm 63 for more dazzling barns.

What's for Dinner?

2011-12-12T12:10:00.000-05:00

Noix au Vent

Look Who's Talking

2011-12-08T19:18:00.001-05:00

During the month of December, the commercialism of giving reaches a fevered pitch. I would like to share and suggest a different perspective. The act of giving is something many of us don't do often enough. For those of you who do, keep on giving! Brightening someone's day is a big deal and everyone has the power to give the gift. It doesn't cost much, just a little effort and time.

It can be a simple Smile, a Hello, a Gesture, an Acknowledgement, a Hug... a Warm Embrace. Please don't underestimate the difference you can make.

Here's a little something I hope brings a smile to your face. Animal Voice-overs

The Gular Effect

2011-12-07T17:36:00.001-05:00

Blue Jays are able to pack food in their throat in an area referred to as the “Gular Pouch.” So if you're wondering how they can eat so much. It has more to do with storing food away for the winter and doing it efficiently.

Five peanuts per flight!

Barn Charm and Friends

2011-12-05T22:52:00.001-05:00

Mink Island Farm

Fast Times at Hanky Panky Marsh

2011-12-03T00:30:00.001-05:00

Summer Time Memories

2011-12-01T03:11:00.001-05:00

It all started with a stroll down a path...

BJ Fact or Myth?

2011-11-25T23:23:00.001-05:00

In most bird species there is some difference between the female and male.

True or False: Female and male Blue Jays are identical. For the answer, scroll down.

There is no difference between the female and male Blue Jay.

Missed Flight

2011-11-25T15:28:00.001-05:00

Who am I?

Pulled from my archives. Not feeling well lately.

Red, Green and Somewhere in Between

2011-11-23T04:31:00.001-05:00

Engineering Marvels

2011-11-23T03:00:00.001-05:00

The definition or words alone are typically related to areas involving construction by both women and men. From my perspective, engineering marvels belong to nature. In many instances Mother Nature herself serves as the platform for the hand(s) in construction design.

November's Treasure Chest

2011-11-18T03:07:00.001-05:00

Eastern Garter Snake

Redtail Hawk

American Goldfinch

Purple Finch

See Life

2011-11-17T21:16:00.000-05:00

A magical world beneath the waterline. If you have the opportunity to scuba dive, seize it.

Blue Spotted Angelfish

Christmas Tree Worm

Coral Banded Shrimp

Puffer

Lionfish

Spadefish

French Grunt

... Under Attack

2011-11-15T13:56:00.000-05:00

For many of us the notion that Sharks are under attack would seem ridiculous. We are general much more aware or in tune to hearing shark attacks on individuals. Well that's the media circus at work using sensationalism to get your attention. Shark attacks do occur, but it is not the norm. Sadly, it is the shark species that is under attack. The practice of shark finning represents a large portion of the shark killing. Fishermen around the globe still use long line fishing techniques and this practice has had a large impact on sharks as well. Then there is recreational shark fishing where individuals (anglers) go out and fish for sharks using high test lines, heavy duty tackle and rods.

In this photo, I was able to approach the shark and noted the hook and leader still in its mouth.

Shark populations around the globe are under stress and some I'm told are in fact endangered. Some might say that's a good thing and I can appreciate their statement. What they fail to understand is the ecological system and the importance each species plays in maintaining a balance.

Lest We Forget

2011-11-13T00:28:00.000-05:00

Asleep at Dinner

2011-11-10T15:25:00.001-05:00

Do you remember a time when you or someone in your family feel asleep at meal time?

Thanks for dropping in. :)

Barnyard Boogie

2011-11-08T00:28:00.003-05:00

Another great Sunday weather wise and an opportune time to explore another county road.

Sea Life

2011-11-06T00:02:00.001-04:00

Curious George

Marine life is so intriguing, that's one of the main reasons why I started underwater photography.

I wanted to capture and relive my experience, moreover... share my experience with others.

I hope you enjoy viewing them.

Tarpon

Caribbean Grey Reef Shark

Stoplight Parrot Fish

Hermit Crab with Conch Shell on its back... aka: Blue Eyes

Black-eyed Inspired

2011-11-05T01:38:00.002-04:00

She's relaxed but left wanting more.

He's curious and wondering why she's fussing.

It could be a case that many share. Just Can't Get Enough

Wooden Fence

2011-11-04T08:51:00.000-04:00

What do folks know of putting up a fence today? How did our fore-fathers do it back in the day? How did they know where the boundaries were located? One difference is the use of machinery and specialized tools.

I bet some of you must have some interesting stories to tell. Perhaps these stories were passed down through the generations, while others occurred during your lifetime.

Here's a shot I took yesterday as I meandered about our property. I think it tells a story. What does it tell you?

Country in the County

2011-10-29T23:02:00.002-04:00

I hope each of you enjoy these images and see in these images the stories within.

Comments are encouraged. If nothing comes to mind, a simple Hello, along with your name and location are appreciated. Thanks!

Link to Barn Charm for all who enjoy barns of all sorts.

Family Run Farms

2011-10-26T23:47:00.000-04:00

As I explore the County I now call home, I am discovering there are a number Family Run Farms. Most of these farms have been in operation over a number of generations. It is comforting to know they are still families out there willing to maintain a way of life that is rich in tradition but also focused on producing quality product when compared to the massive processing establishments labelled as farms.

Support your local farmer. You'll probably discover the freshness factor trumps store purchased products such as fresh eggs, milk, and beef to name just a few.

Chick-A-Dee Chick-A-Doo

2011-10-25T01:18:00.000-04:00

There is something special about the Chickadee with its seemingly human qualities. It has a unique manner in which it endears itself to most of us. If you can afford the time to sit quietly, and have some Black Oil Sunflower Seed on hand, they may grace you with a level of trust that is seldom experienced by most.

Abs of Steel

2011-10-22T11:00:00.000-04:00

It never ceases to amaze me how nature adapts.

Hmm... which do you prefer?

Nutty Peckers

2011-10-21T09:40:00.000-04:00

Mr. and Mrs. Downy Woodpecker have taken a fancy to our nutty feeder.

Female

Male Downy Woodpecker Sounds

Déjà Vu

2011-10-19T02:22:00.000-04:00

Have you ever had a deja moment? Some folks have described the sensation of being in a fog, others have used words such as familiar, seen it... but can't remember when, reliving a past event, as if time stopped and rolled back some. All accounts are seemingly real for the individual.

As a child I vividly remember playing in the barns, sitting on old tractors and machinery from days gone-by. These shots remind me of those days. Not exactly a deja moment, but it got me thinking about it.

Illusions

2011-10-16T10:51:00.000-04:00

What do you get when you cross a Chickadee and a Finch?

Robin Who?

2011-10-14T16:23:00.000-04:00

It's been an interesting few days! Up to 100 Robins or so have been visiting our berry filled bushes. These bushes are full of dark coloured berries. The Robins have also helped themselves to the juniper berries found on our property.

As I've read and observed myself, it seems most Robins simply disappeared back in August and are now reappearing. Not sure what all this means, I'm just sharing what some have shared with me and my own observations. What are your observations?

Black and Blue...

2011-10-13T01:24:00.000-04:00

Feeder Activity Vol.1

2011-10-12T10:09:00.000-04:00

Here's a small sampling of activity at our feeders this AM.

White Breasted Nuthatch

Black Capped Chickadee

The Greatest Thing About Waking Up...

2011-10-10T20:56:00.000-04:00

Started my day like most days, with a nice cup of coffee. I like my coffee strong, yet smooth with a hint of sweetness. What was different about this early morning ritual... I had my first sighting of a rabbit in our mist filled backyard.

Turkey Anyone?

2011-10-09T21:27:00.000-04:00

Relaxing in our pergola I noticed a wide wing-span overhead. There were Turkey Vultures riding the warm air thermals for part of the afternoon. Air-gliders look at cloud formations and soaring birds as clues to track these thermals. I have no idea how these birds do it.

Turkey Vulture

Have yourselves a Thanksgiving to remember.

Horsing Around...

2011-10-09T01:22:00.000-04:00

In my previous blog entry and going forward, most of the images I'll be posting will be from my new location in Prince Edward County. We're still busy settling into our new home and running all kinds of errands. Let's just say our 'to do' list is somewhat lengthy.

Country Castles

2011-10-08T14:20:00.000-04:00

As some of you know, I have a soft spot for old barns. If those old barn-boards could talk, I'm pretty sure there'd be endless stories of past years and seasons.

The Mystical Nuthatch

2011-09-30T01:11:00.000-04:00

White-breasted Nuthatch + Sounds

Nuthatch teaches grounding of spiritual energies along with faith and trust in the realms of spiritual and physical. Nuthatch shows how to move in many directions in search for spiritual and mental "food", sometimes head first is needed but rest assured, Nuthatch will also show how to hang on with amazing agility. Nuthatch is also a bird of ingenuity. Perhaps it is time to be creative and find solutions in new areas? Do you need to crack something open before your reap rewards? Nuthatch can demonstrate rebuilding or refurbishing your own dwelling to suit you better. Is it a mental/emotional over hall or a physical/construction one? In any case, he will bring attention to details in moving from one phase to another. It is time be sharp and aware.

Excerpt - Animal Totems: Dictionary of Birds

Note: a quick note to let everyone who visits this blog that we'll be offline for a few days. We are in the process of moving to a new home. Hopefully the transition won't take too long, and we'll be back real soon.

I Gotta Feelin

2011-09-28T22:43:00.000-04:00

I gotta feelin that you my dear friends will be able to help me identify these little characters.

Who am I ?

They showed up and hung out in our Mountain Ash trees for a short spell. They moved around quickly, so it was difficult to get a sharp photograph.

He said... She said...

2011-09-25T01:52:00.000-04:00

Pssst... have you seen my Lady?
She comes around here pretty often and I'm worried!

Hi ya honey, don't tell my Man you've seen me, okay?
He's being a royal pain lately and I don't have time for his whining.
I'm working at getting myself new feathers since I lost my weave.
I've got to look good for my Honey!

Quackery

2011-09-22T16:42:00.000-04:00

Who is Toronto's current Mayor?

Available for Voice Overs

Calm Before the Storm

2011-09-21T19:48:00.000-04:00

La Dolce Vita

The Good Life

Serendipity Times

2011-09-20T14:18:00.000-04:00

Muskoka Chairs of Comfort & Bird Watching

White-breasted Nuthatch and Sounds

Mr. and Mrs. Northern Cardinal Sounds

MINE!!!

Life's Miracles

2011-09-19T23:27:00.000-04:00

Stop and Recognize Life's Miracles

Personalities of a Blue Jay

2011-09-19T19:43:00.000-04:00

There is nothing in which the birds differ more from man than the way in which

they can build and yet leave a landscape as it was before.

~Robert Lynd, The Blue Lion and Other Essays

Sharp Dressed Man

Where's my comb?
Blue Jay Calls

100 Years

2011-09-18T16:40:00.000-04:00

The Common Snapping Turtle reaches maturity between 15 and 20 years and typically lives 30 to 40 years... however, it is not uncommon for these moss covered beauties to live 100 years or more.

Snapping turtles are among the largest freshwater turtles in the world.

The Snapping Turtle has also been assessed nationally as a special concern species by the federal Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). It's survival is dependant on healthy wetlands.

Backyard Bust

2011-09-18T01:05:00.000-04:00

Molting or Skin-head Northern Cardinal (female)

Salon Cut and Blow-dry

Bad boys, bad boys
Whatcha gonna do, whatcha gonna do
When they come for you

Deep Woods

2011-09-15T20:23:00.000-04:00

The deer were in the thick of it. To my surprise and theirs, I don't think they were expecting the likes of me, nor my attempts at deer like sounds. I probably sounded like Big Foot with gas. lol

I heard and smelled you, and now I can see you!

Looks French to me.

Harmless photographer... whatever.

I miss my antlers; can't wait for the new ones to grow in.

Nutty Butcher

2011-09-14T14:59:00.001-04:00

“My local butcher has started selling squirrels and I was thinking;
he should put public health warnings on them - This Product May Contain Nuts.”

-- Anonymous

48 hours to End Ocean Clear-cuts

2011-09-13T23:54:00.000-04:00

Please Sign the Petition
Our oceans are being decimated by deep-sea trawlers -- leaving vast wastelands behind them. A crucial UN fisheries meeting is happening in 48 hours and it could be the turning point
against this senseless destruction, but only if enough of us speak out now. Take action today!

To members of the UN General Assembly:
As concerned global citizens, we call on you immediately to implement and enforce your obligations to the UN resolutions on fishing and work to ban the destructive practice of deep-sea bottom-fishing. We urge you to usher in a new era of accountability and commitment to our injured oceans by steadfastly holding other nations to their promises to protect oceans and curb devastation.

In the Water, Tree, and Bush

2011-09-13T15:53:00.001-04:00

Canada Goose & Gosling Sounds

Belted Kingfisher Song

Eastern Kingbird Song

Soldiers Past, Present, and Future

2011-09-13T14:59:00.000-04:00

There is one constant in history and that is history is destined to repeat itself. Generations have seen and experienced acts of war in one form or another. Soldiers and their respective families have made sacrifices most of us cannot begin to imagine. Governments who send them into harms way should do whatever is necessary for these women and men during their tour of duty and upon their return, yet they play politics with their health care needs.

It is high time that the individuals who serve our nation no longer suffer the indignities of governments inaction or lip-service. There should be special amendments to our constitution or laws to ensure their needs are protected and looked after in a timely fashion. Remembrance day should not just be observed one day each year. They should be remembered every day.

Speak up and let your member of parliament know where you stand. It is high time the words that appear on paper and road signs have real meaning.

Paradise

2011-09-12T01:07:00.007-04:00

The many great gardens of the world, of literature and poetry, of painting and music, of religion and architecture, all make the point as clear as possible: The soul cannot thrive in the absence of a garden. If you don't want paradise, you are not human; and if you are not human, you don't have a soul. --Thomas Moore (1779 - 1852)

Northern Flicker (yellow-shafted)

2011-09-11T00:39:00.000-04:00

When you hear the different calls of the Northern Flicker, close your eyes and let your mind take flight.

Marine Life at Peril

2011-09-08T13:48:00.002-04:00

I'm afraid this isn't a feel good blog entry. In fact, it is many things and none are positive in my opinion. That said, there is a glimmer of hope. By getting the word out about various issues, more individuals will be informed. Informed individuals can make an impact and right now we collectively need to have our voices heard. Contact your political representatives and let them know you oppose Shark Finning.

The practice of Shark Finning is inhumane!

I hope you will join me and thousands of others in denouncing this practice. The sheer number being taken from our Oceans is having a negative impact on the fragile ecosystems. I've taken the liberty to provide links to reliable resources and a petition.

We endorse the Save the Sharks Petition to Restaurant Owners and All Who Read the Petition.

http://www.squidoo.com/stopsharkfinning
http://www.projectaware.org/project/sharks-peril

Gordon Ramsay on Shark Fin Soup.
Please spread the word and share this link with your readers, friends and family.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r65FgUYdBOc&feature=player_embedded

Do you part, together we can bring about change.

Destination Puerto Vallarta

2011-09-06T01:35:00.001-04:00

When down time is needed, Puerto Vallarta fits the bill quite nicely. It's the type of destination we enjoy visiting for several reasons. It offers an attractive price point, relaxing environment, friendly locals and quaint restaurants and bars. However, it doesn't have the attractive beaches the Caribbean provides. If you're after white sandy beaches and Gin Tonic Clear Water, then I recommend the Caribbean.

Downtown Puerto Vallarta

Holiday Inn Beach Front

Margarita Moments

Take off... eh!

2011-09-04T20:32:00.000-04:00

Great Things Come in Small Packages

2011-09-01T08:45:00.000-04:00

Mommy Dearest

2011-08-28T16:21:00.000-04:00

Mommy

Dearest

Reminiscing

2011-08-27T18:51:00.004-04:00

"Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened."

- Dr. Seuss

Memory of my Sister

2011-08-25T14:19:00.004-04:00

In memory of Anita Gatien (nee LaFrance)
1964 - 2011

Mother, Wife, Sister, Aunt, and Friend.

My sister passed away this August from Ovarian Cancer; she was only 47 years old.
Encourage your female friends and relatives to get the CA125 blood test.