tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57316608355548905532024-03-15T18:10:09.826-07:00bikesbirdsnbeastsBlack Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.comBlogger896125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-63486538346543343972017-04-17T14:49:00.001-07:002017-04-18T19:09:08.331-07:00Noetic Narratives<div style="text-align: center;">
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I'm back again, thinking of letters and words and critters and feeling the <span style="color: blue;"><b>N</b></span>eed to <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ote the events of my life over the past few weeks. I've <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>eglected the letters "K" and "L" and "M" for <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.ca/">ABC Wednesday</a>, but a few minutes spent at the <a href="http://phrontistery.info/n.html">Phrontistery site</a> provided quite a <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>umber of <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ew-to-me "N" words, so I'll try to employ a few of them in the post. As for critters, there is no one more committed to providing a <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>exus of communication between those who love them than Eileen. Her <a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/2017/04/saturdays-critters-174.html">Saturday's Critters</a> meme has been hugely popular for several years and I am most grateful for the opportunity to post a few recent wildlife photos to it, as well as considerably more than a few of my dear Black Jack.</div>
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I saw this Wood Duck a couple of months ago as it bathed in Lost Lagoon in Stanley Park. I loved the <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>aevous (speckled) image created by water splatters and the duck's own markings. </div>
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Some of you know that I am a <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>eophyte when it comes to drawing or painting. My first drawing was completed on January 14th, and exactly four months later, I completed this, my 7th project (the others are in past blog posts), a painting guided by the above photograph of the Wood Duck. <br />
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Each undertaking has been a struggle but I concede that I've come a long way from the "I-can't-even-draw-stick-figures" mentality that was a part of my perception. I guess you could say it's a multi-media effort, with acrylic paints used most, but watercolour pencils and even a magic marker employed here and there when <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ecessary. The biggest frustration was that I failed to recreate the effect of light on the duck's body. Bill and I made a few trips to the dollar store, selecting 11 different acrylic paint shades (what a great resource that place is and what a wonderful art-enabler Bill is!), but I realized I had failed to buy any shades of brown. As there were so many different brown hues in the duck, I once again turned to my friend Google for help. <a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Brown-from-Primary-Colors">This site</a> and also <a href="https://www.craftsy.com/blog/2015/12/how-to-mix-brown-paint/">this one</a> had great instructions for creating browns by mixing primary colours. I painted over that duck's back several times, adding and then covering over various white accents, changing the balance of hues and generally doing everything I could think of, but the illusion of <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>itency (lustre) <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ever did happen. My back-up plan is to finally try an art class. Luckily, the Roundhouse Community Centre is a few steps away from our building, and they have a drop-in option for an acrylic painting class that I'm going to try a week from Monday. Maybe the instructor will be able to help me figure out how to improve the painting. I hope so. Still, I love my duck, because he represents progress in my artistic journey. :)<br />
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Though Vancouver has had way more than the <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ormal amount of rain this year, Bill and I and Black Jack have still been able to go for some wonderful bike rides. We were at Jericho Beach twice lately, and on the second trip, saw these rabbits playing around some logs.<br />
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Black Jack loves to hunt for rabbits, and though she missed the ones above, she was convinced that <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>avigating a different log..<br />
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would bring success. <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>o rabbits were found, but she sure had fun looking.<br />
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Bill and I continue to visit our favourite Buzz Café at Harrison Gallery almost daily. We also are <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>joying (that spelling, believe it or not, was in a thesaurus dictionary!) our "new" (but not latest model) iphones. Here, Black Jack waited for Bill to return to our table and I experimented with a "selfie" shot.<br />
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The most fun, however, was the <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>arrischkeit (foolishness) that ensued when we tried to get a photo with all three of us in the shot.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>"You are my <span style="color: blue;">N</span>irvana, Bill!"</b></span></div>
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Some success, after a <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>oble effort, here. :)</div>
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I see many photo-ops as we go about our daily treks, but often, I am <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ervous to ask permission to get a capture. This gentleman's face is hidden, so I feel a bit less guilty for showing him as he enjoys a quiet read, with a Canada Goose resting just feet away from him.<br />
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I know Black Jack's image is no longer a <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ovelty but..<br />
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the <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>uances of her..<br />
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<b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>atural behaviours still..<br />
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make me smile. Here, she is <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>estled in her basket as we make our way to Granville Island on the Aquabus.<br />
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We follow two eagle <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ests within biking distance of home. This is one of the pair that resides at Vanier Park.<br />
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While we watch eagles, Black Jack rests <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>onchalently in Bill's arms, happy to investigate her surroundings from the perspective of his height advantage.<br />
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One eagle, most likely the male, sat on a branch, but it seemed the female was hiding in the <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ether regions of the nest, with no plans to emerge. When she finally flew out, she appeared to..<br />
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<b style="color: blue;">N</b>osedive but I think she was just inviting the male to follow her.<br />
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They were off for about a 10-second flight and then returned to the nest. I've been told there is at least one egg in the nest, so we may have some <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ewborn eaglets to report in a few weeks. <br />
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This distant shot was the only one I managed to capture when we were at Jericho Beach of the other eagle pair we follow. There is a <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>arrative attached to Bert and Ethel's adventures. You can read about that <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/vancouver-city-workers-repair-pathetic-eagle-s-nest-1.3771626">here</a>.<br />
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So many of Bert and Ethel's progeny over the years fell from their nests that concerned citizens in the area went to great lengths to construct a safer habitat for them. If we get back to the park, I'll try to update you on how that is working out. I'll add here one of the new words that I learned today. "<b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>idificate" means to build a nest. Who knew? Perhaps, you did. :)<br />
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While we were at Jericho Park, we saw some Ring-<b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ecked ducks.<br />
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If you look really carefully, you may be able to see the reddish colouring around the neck that helped me make the identification. If you are <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>onplused about that, not to worry. It is so faint as to rest almost completely in my imagination. :)<br />
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I <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>ever fail to be impressed by the agility and <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>imbleness of squirrels as they make their way up, down and around tree trunks and branches. This one was rummaging in the undergrowth beneath the Jericho eagle nest.<br />
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Finally, a bit of an update on our recent <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>oetic (of or associated with, or requiring use of the mind) pursuits. </div>
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Chris and Jennifer Harrison, of our beloved <a href="http://www.harrisongalleries.com/">Harrison Galleries</a>, invited us to attend a talk given by one of the photographers featured at their gallery. I'll be honest. We see <a href="http://friedmanphoto.com/">Steven Friedman</a>'s work around us every day, and while his photography was the first to draw Bill's eye on our very first visit, and while we've continued to admire and appreciate his work, we've become so used to having it around us, I don't think we fully realized how much there would be to learn from his talk. I know Steven travels far and wide to get his images, and I know he hikes to impossible places and waits for days (sometimes, years!) to get his beloved trees in just the right light and in just the right amount of wind, and in just the right balance and arrangement, but still, there were many things I didn't know. For example, until he gave his talk, I had no image in my mind of his wife, Joni, by his side, no matter the challenges. Her <b style="color: blue;">N</b>ame came up over and over again as he described the life his photography entails. One of those stories brought back an image of Bill a few years ago when he wiped insects and blood from their bites from my legs as I strived to get an image. But Joni went one better than that! Can you believe she even had to remove bloodsuckers from his legs on one occasion? Who knew photography's perfection could cost such an effort? </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KFjrYOSF7kE/WPJkh3ZDQvI/AAAAAAABFaw/xI8g_xR6zDAstFqW5vKtvYUyb-17a9cjgCLcB/s1600/DSC_7527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KFjrYOSF7kE/WPJkh3ZDQvI/AAAAAAABFaw/xI8g_xR6zDAstFqW5vKtvYUyb-17a9cjgCLcB/s640/DSC_7527.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Joni and Steven kindly posed for me at Harrison Galleries. It was the first time I had seen the entire gallery <span style="color: blue; font-weight: bold;">N</span>urtured in the warmth of Steven's images<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--bTz8bY2iOs/WPJkhppcG-I/AAAAAAABFao/_to8yQzrk50l8YhwJ0M080K4jXgcdfoKwCLcB/s1600/DSC_7531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--bTz8bY2iOs/WPJkhppcG-I/AAAAAAABFao/_to8yQzrk50l8YhwJ0M080K4jXgcdfoKwCLcB/s640/DSC_7531.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Steven and Joni and I all thought Chris Harrison, the gallery owner, should pose as well. He considered that a <b style="color: blue;">N</b>uisance but was good-<b style="color: blue;">N</b>atured and cooperative<b style="color: blue;"> </b>after we reminded him that he had started the whole process of arranging the talk to highlight Steven's art.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tV1YGlPAQ94/WPJkh_FkJqI/AAAAAAABFas/U9lCTHiW6Ng6bosEnv0iCDyCPxa7ognzgCLcB/s1600/DSC_7534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="404" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tV1YGlPAQ94/WPJkh_FkJqI/AAAAAAABFas/U9lCTHiW6Ng6bosEnv0iCDyCPxa7ognzgCLcB/s640/DSC_7534.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here, Bill poses with two of Steven's works. If ever you were entertaining the <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>otion of acquiring an outstanding piece of art, I can't recommend highly enough that you pay a visit to Harrison Gallery. For now, the place positively hums with a colourful energy that speaks of a dedication to one's craft that I can only imagine. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jEDsJyxpExM/WPJliQl3nnI/AAAAAAABFa8/6zE3hnVaKEYr9_wYPKvlTBI9aP_QpMN_gCKgB/s1600/IMG_1701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jEDsJyxpExM/WPJliQl3nnI/AAAAAAABFa8/6zE3hnVaKEYr9_wYPKvlTBI9aP_QpMN_gCKgB/s640/IMG_1701.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
This is Indiana Jones, who once accompanied Steven on many of his treks, but now stays at home with a trusted dog-sitter due to his advancing years. I took this photo of him in 2014, the first time we met Steven and Joni.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HjC1rJ3MZxk/WPPMFL4wPeI/AAAAAAABFgs/V1QvWE-lO4YUdTfwM8j-b3ue8u2u8ReHACLcB/s1600/DSC_9765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HjC1rJ3MZxk/WPPMFL4wPeI/AAAAAAABFgs/V1QvWE-lO4YUdTfwM8j-b3ue8u2u8ReHACLcB/s640/DSC_9765.jpg" width="420" /></a></div>
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And speaking of partners that go the distance in their support of each other, this is Jennifer Harrison. <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>tRtaining (yes, this was in the dictionary as well!) a large number of avid photographers requires jobs I hadn't even considered until I saw the weeks of preparation that went into the talk. Who knew one of those jobs would require standing on the table? :)</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sG4ktkpIotQ/WPJlibhHpwI/AAAAAAABFa8/6WemZl8gjL0UOxu4YOwLrrl3GCK73OLUgCKgB/s1600/IMG_1693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sG4ktkpIotQ/WPJlibhHpwI/AAAAAAABFa8/6WemZl8gjL0UOxu4YOwLrrl3GCK73OLUgCKgB/s640/IMG_1693.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Jennifer's laughter is truly <b style="color: blue;">N</b>otable. We love her joie-de-vivre. <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJfqNpt2qh4/WPJlicKceVI/AAAAAAABFa8/MnNpb_S-tRcPsLNyh1DwsYEVasO6w66cwCKgB/s1600/IMG_1691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJfqNpt2qh4/WPJlicKceVI/AAAAAAABFa8/MnNpb_S-tRcPsLNyh1DwsYEVasO6w66cwCKgB/s640/IMG_1691.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Steven's work centres mostly around trees, although he will occasionally be drawn to another subject. I'll leave you to stroll through the gallery here, but there is no substitute for actually seeing his work up close and personal for yourself. I'll throw just one more "N" word out here before you set off on your tour. I learned that <b style="color: blue;">N</b>emorphalist means someone who loves the woods. A truer description of Steven would be hard to find.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nzswcdGgmuU/WPJliaijcAI/AAAAAAABFa8/yFEnEALK3ZQld_sZ6dy8lWIyY1xmBGoCwCKgB/s1600/IMG_1689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nzswcdGgmuU/WPJliaijcAI/AAAAAAABFa8/yFEnEALK3ZQld_sZ6dy8lWIyY1xmBGoCwCKgB/s640/IMG_1689.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9sHvw3Fvztc/WPJliarBDhI/AAAAAAABFa8/MtkOy88CrOYKnzkSJxB6G6lDHaoO9KKrwCKgB/s1600/IMG_1687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9sHvw3Fvztc/WPJliarBDhI/AAAAAAABFa8/MtkOy88CrOYKnzkSJxB6G6lDHaoO9KKrwCKgB/s640/IMG_1687.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LizVt17nQOc/WPJliWtnDLI/AAAAAAABFa8/NWpBOtFpuEkQw_nMXAPASmQqdS2SvAJxgCKgB/s1600/IMG_1669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LizVt17nQOc/WPJliWtnDLI/AAAAAAABFa8/NWpBOtFpuEkQw_nMXAPASmQqdS2SvAJxgCKgB/s640/IMG_1669.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
This <b style="color: blue;">N</b>atty rainbow was an unusual find that Steven knew he couldn't pass up. Even then, his talent and years of disciplined photography stood him in good stead. He knew exactly where to run to find the perfect viewpoint to catch the entire rainbow spread evenly over the vista.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GbQDx5SPpwY/WPJliag3RXI/AAAAAAABFa8/AZ-kVJH6z9UYUXZ0x0FjK1YBEZrtZHZxwCKgB/s1600/IMG_1680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GbQDx5SPpwY/WPJliag3RXI/AAAAAAABFa8/AZ-kVJH6z9UYUXZ0x0FjK1YBEZrtZHZxwCKgB/s640/IMG_1680.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
And here, I resort to pictures with very little commentary, and probably the "N's" will be few and far between. <br />
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<b>DANCE/THEATRE</b><br />
<b><a href="http://balletbc.com/">Ballet BC</a></b><br />
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Ballet BC is one of Vancouver's best kept secrets. Their director, Emily Molnar, took over in 2009, and one of the first things she did was to hang tutus on the parking metres outside the dance centre. Her message to the world was, "Whatever you thought a ballet company was, we are going to change that view forever. I loved their Programs 1 and 2 so much that, if there had been an opportunity, I would have wanted to see the performances again and again. Now, we are looking forward to their <a href="http://balletbc.com/performance/program-3-2017/">Program 3</a> in May. Here's a small <a href="http://balletbc.com/beginning-after-excerpt/">video excerpt </a>of one of their dances.</div>
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I had the opportunity to take pictures of one of their dancers, Scott Fowler (he is all the way on the right in the above photo), and can attest to the truth of Emily's message, but more importantly, to the enormous respect and love all of the dancers feel for their art, and for Emily. Last summer, Scott was incredibly kind in agreeing to pose for me at Beaver Lake, Stanley Park.</div>
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I hope I am correct that Alexis Fletcher and Peter Smida are shown below, taking their bows after an incredible dance in act 2 of a world premiere called "Swan" that was choreographed by Wen Wei Wang. This was definitely one of several highlights for me. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1wcd8m8WxLw/WPJmiywDVoI/AAAAAAABFbQ/_VUSdF9gp_IOlDsnJSo2tlsLS5EkmfdIACEw/s1600/DSC_6741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1wcd8m8WxLw/WPJmiywDVoI/AAAAAAABFbQ/_VUSdF9gp_IOlDsnJSo2tlsLS5EkmfdIACEw/s640/DSC_6741.JPG" width="476" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Travis_Wall">Travis Wall</a> (latest touring show)</b></div>
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<b>Performance at Queen Elizabeth Theatre</b></div>
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I was really excited that Bill got tickets for this performance. Well, truthfully, I am thrilled every time Bill tells me he has just ordered tickets for an event. He chooses many of those events himself, but I can also be pretty sure if I ever indicate an interest in something that is coming up, he will quietly order the tickets just to make me happy. Thank you, Bill! In the end, we were very happy to have seen Travis Wall, but we both agreed we came away with an even deeper appreciation for Ballet BC.<br />
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In the photo below, one of the dancers is midway through a back flip.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TGr1eIDasZY/WPJpiGu5xPI/AAAAAAABFb0/3l6GXM7Ytg4RzM3mP8ByQw4H0uL21G_QwCLcB/s1600/DSC_7130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TGr1eIDasZY/WPJpiGu5xPI/AAAAAAABFb0/3l6GXM7Ytg4RzM3mP8ByQw4H0uL21G_QwCLcB/s640/DSC_7130.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
That dancer has just landed in this next photo. He is on the left.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AkUuhomeVXM/WPJphvkpWqI/AAAAAAABFbw/RGbnh32MRKYuzACZHt81iqQY_Nu4V9QAwCLcB/s1600/DSC_7131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AkUuhomeVXM/WPJphvkpWqI/AAAAAAABFbw/RGbnh32MRKYuzACZHt81iqQY_Nu4V9QAwCLcB/s640/DSC_7131.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
These next photos show two dancers in an aerial duet performed on trapeze-like ribbons. Just beautiful!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BOp3xNrD_40/WPJpit04nhI/AAAAAAABFb4/rzfZlVPB0QQI3rus1YJ0Tl8ZpxbVBS17ACLcB/s1600/DSC_7141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BOp3xNrD_40/WPJpit04nhI/AAAAAAABFb4/rzfZlVPB0QQI3rus1YJ0Tl8ZpxbVBS17ACLcB/s640/DSC_7141.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>"Room 2048" Performance by Hong Kong Exile</b></div>
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Here's Bill outside on the deck before the performance.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QClfdE2STRc/WPJqGaffqgI/AAAAAAABFcI/SJSiSXXCvisE7R-dO7znwYYKzj8uENIrQCLcB/s1600/DSC_7542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QClfdE2STRc/WPJqGaffqgI/AAAAAAABFcI/SJSiSXXCvisE7R-dO7znwYYKzj8uENIrQCLcB/s640/DSC_7542.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Another "<b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b>atty" shot - also on the deck outside. I love this one!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L8-g3jW2E2c/WPJqGKAFwWI/AAAAAAABFcA/1lP6Qsn42VMNZKV-iPJQxeDi60QHnheHQCLcB/s1600/DSC_7543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L8-g3jW2E2c/WPJqGKAFwWI/AAAAAAABFcA/1lP6Qsn42VMNZKV-iPJQxeDi60QHnheHQCLcB/s640/DSC_7543.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
The performance was unlike anything either of us have EVER seen before. Truly unique use of light and movement.<br />
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<b>JAZZ</b></div>
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<b>Bob Liley - Jazz Vespers - St. Andrew's Wesley</b><br />
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Bob Liley has had an illustrious career as musical director and jazz drummer, but he is showing no sign of slowing down. We saw him a few years ago, and I was impressed then, but honestly, it is not an exaggeration to say that he "keeps on keeping on" (expression borrowed from Terry Clark) getting better.</div>
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Below, you can hear "Del Sasser" as performed by his quintet the day we attended. II you are interested in particular solos, Jerry Cook is on tenor sax at 0:22, Norm Quinn on trumpet at 1:43, Roy Sluyter on piano at 3:05 and Bob Liley brings the house down with his drum-set dialogues beginning at 4:26 to 5:17. I must mention Mark Bender on bass as well. My camera didn't do a great job of picking up his sound, but there were no weak links in this ensemble. Every member was a star! </div>
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Oh, and I HAVE to include this shot of the clouds along the False Creek walkway. Why? Because I have another New N word for you. Did you know that <b><span style="color: blue;">N</span></b><span style="background-color: #ffffdd; font-family: "cynthopro" , "trebuchet ms" , "tahoma" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.3333px;">ephelococcygia</span> means the act of finding shapes in clouds? Okay, I admit it. I don't see a single shape here, but perhaps you do. If so, definitely let me know. </div>
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Here is our beloved bike path lined with cherry blossoms and yours truly in her new Natty (?) bike jacket. Photo courtesy of beautiful Bill!</div>
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Does this strawberry look like a heart to you! It did to us before we ate it for breakfast. :)</div>
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Bill said to dump this shot, but I think it is my best cherry blossom one this year, so it stays. :)</div>
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This one is for Phyllis, Bill's sister. I had to prove to her that some days have been shirtsleeve weather when we play pickleball.</div>
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This is one of our better volleys, though I lost :( And the weather proves we are not wooses. :)</div>
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Okay, I love this scene too. It is steps from our apartment building.</div>
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Another chance for you to engage in the process of <span style="background-color: #ffffdd; font-family: "cynthopro" , "trebuchet ms" , "tahoma" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.3333px;">nephelococcygia.</span></div>
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And a final shot of Black Jack looking Natty and chillin' out in her bicycle basket, as happy as can be. That's it, folks. Just an hour or two under the deadline, as usual. Many thanks for stopping by. Wishing each one of you the very best. </div>
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com82tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-20205644823860234512017-03-20T13:33:00.004-07:002017-03-20T13:33:49.983-07:00A few critters and some thoughts about JuvanescenceI missed the "H" and "I" posts for <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.ca/"><b>ABC Wednesday</b></a>'s meme but it looks like I <b style="color: blue;">J</b>ust might make it into the "<b><span style="color: blue;">J</span></b>" post Since I have lots of critters to share, I hope I can <b style="color: blue;">J</b>ustify posting to Eileen's <a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/2017/03/saturdays-critters-169.html"><b>Saturday's Critters</b></a> meme as well. Many thanks to the administrators of each of these memes. Their <span style="color: blue; font-weight: bold;">J</span>ob of <b style="color: blue;">J</b>oining up bloggers from around the world is one they do with <b style="color: blue;">J</b>oyful committment. <br />
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We hear this Flicker most days long before we spot him. On this day, his call was so loud, there was no question he was nearby. But where? After much searching, I was <b style="color: blue;">J</b>ubilant to catch him as he peeked up over the street lamp.<br />
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When he wasn't "kyeering" and "rolling-rattling", he was drumming on the lamp edge for maximum effect. (You can hear examples of his calls and his drumming technique by scrolling down a bit at <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Northern_Flicker/sounds">this site</a>), No females responded. Perhaps, he was a <b style="color: blue;">J</b>uvenile and needed more practice. :)</div>
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Suddenly, he stopped his work and stared into the sky, perhaps wary that an interloper might take over his <b style="color: blue;">J</b>urisdiction.<br />
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Before hiding again, he glanced at me, his <b style="color: blue;">J</b>aunty, red "moustache" looking positively dapper.</div>
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We saw this adorable little fellow in Olympic Village Park during one of our <b style="color: blue;">J</b>aunts about town. I learned that he is nine years of age but he plopped himself down with a slightly <b style="color: blue;">J</b>aded air. Perhaps, he was feeling impatient at having to wait for our conversation to end so that he could get on with his day. </div>
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12-and-a-half-year-old Black Jack has a heart murmur and some other age-related issues but she continues to show a <b style="color: blue;">J</b>uvenescent attitude.</div>
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Perhaps, that is because playing and <b style="color: blue;">J</b><span style="color: blue;">oking with Bill</span>..<br />
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keeps them both nimble and full of <b style="color: blue;">J</b>ollity.<br />
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Once invigorated by play, Black Jack looks like a <b style="color: blue;">J</b>unior half her age.<br />
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This dog, encountered as we walked along a Yaletown street, displayed a <b style="color: blue;">J</b>azzy sparkle that was in contrast to..<br />
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the slightly <b style="color: blue;">J</b>ittery attitude of this cute little one.</div>
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I liked the way his human smiled, aware in a <b style="color: blue;">J</b>oshing sort of way of the impression the two of them made as people stopped to admire the little one.</div>
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Though the weather has <b style="color: blue;">J</b>oggled and.. </div>
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<b style="color: blue;">J</b>iggled back and forth between sun, snow and rain, sometimes within just hours,<br />
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stopping to take a moment to recognize that fun can be had on even..<br />
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the more miserable days brings <b style="color: blue;">J</b>oy to our life. In the picture below, Bill and I played pickleball in the pouring rain. We put a garbage bag under Black <b style="color: blue;">J</b>ack, with her bed on top of it, a towel on top of the bed, and created a tent over her with a space blanket and Bill's down <b style="color: blue;">J</b>acket.<br />
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As we played, we noticed the wet court created its own shadow-reflections that were fun to photograph. We <b style="color: blue;">J</b>ested that there was something reassuring about knowing we weren't wimps. :)</div>
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As we walked home from our favourite café later that day, we were amazed to see some pink in the sky after a day that had contained hours and hours of rain.<br />
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Learning new skills is another way to preserve the <b style="color: blue;">J</b>ollity and fun in life. My attempt to learn to draw took quite a <b style="color: blue;">J</b>ump forward with this copy of a drawing.. </div>
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by Charles White. I didn't get the lips and <b style="color: blue;">J</b>aw quite right, so my "preacher" has a slightly different expression than the original, but overall, I am encouraged to see more progress than I expected to make after only a couple of months.</div>
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All around us, as Bill and I ride our bikes and walk together, we see that hitting the <b style="color: blue;">J</b>ackpot is not so much about..</div>
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winning the lotto as it is about doing what we love..<br />
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and seeing the humour..<br />
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and colour in our world.</div>
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There are Jewels to discover in our surroundings.<br />
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and in the people and pets we love..<br />
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that will keep us <b style="color: blue;">J</b>umping..</div>
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for <b style="color: blue;">J</b>oy.<br />
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Don't believe me? Sure you do! Just ask Black <b style="color: blue;">J</b>ack if you have any doubts. </div>
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No <b style="color: blue;">J</b>esting about that, nor about the heartfelt thanks I extend for stopping by!!</div>
Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-7769963656632887582017-02-27T12:55:00.000-08:002017-02-27T19:06:33.653-08:00Gentle Gestures, Gulls, Geese, and the colour GreenI <b><u>G</u></b>enuinely hoped to be on time for <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.ca/"><b>ABC Wednesday</b></a>'s letter "<b><u>G</u></b>" posting, and for Eileen's <a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/2017/02/saturdays-critters-167.html"><b>Saturday's Critters</b></a> meme (critters begin at picture number 11). I tried but failed to keep it simple. I apologize, especially to those who faithfully leave comments every week. Conceding that a <b><u>G</u></b>oal to learn to draw is taking up more time than anticipated, I decided to explore the different shades of <b><u>G</u></b>reen in my world and thought to focus less on drawing technique. I found many greens to inspire me. There were palm trees at English Bay..<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KTvqilsROAA/WLMizYCOk1I/AAAAAAABDro/mfPKb4wln8IIzQ9-Hld4MK3LTBinBHexgCLcB/s1600/DSC_5844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KTvqilsROAA/WLMizYCOk1I/AAAAAAABDro/mfPKb4wln8IIzQ9-Hld4MK3LTBinBHexgCLcB/s640/DSC_5844.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
and a painting by <a href="http://www.harrisongalleries.com/artists/ODO186/ODO7339.asp">Tatianna O'Donnell</a> at our favourite café at Harrison <b><u>G</u></b>alleries..<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XwBmR6G0j5s/WLMi26ISvbI/AAAAAAABDr0/BUOrnb7rCp0F6YtFtohnhhNJPRIUoF1FgCLcB/s1600/DSC_5974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XwBmR6G0j5s/WLMi26ISvbI/AAAAAAABDr0/BUOrnb7rCp0F6YtFtohnhhNJPRIUoF1FgCLcB/s640/DSC_5974.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
and a <b><u>G</u></b>orgeous landscape by the <a href="http://www.vancitybuzz.com/2014/08/false-creek-seawall-gets-trio-of-giant-jelly-bean-public-artfalse-creek-seawall-gets-giant-jelle/">Jellybean sculptures in Charleston Park</a>,<br />
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We had ridden our bikes there and then walked to the nearby pond, where I considered trying to draw Bill in his green jacket. He had <b>G</b>enerously..<br />
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<b><u>G</u></b>one along with my suggestion that he pretend to bask in the sun. But no, a portrait of him will have to wait until I have a better chance of doing him justice. <br />
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Besides, he burst into <b><u>G</u></b>ales of laughter as soon as I began to snap the photo. He is SO not a sun bather, though, like <b><u>G</u></b>oldilocks, he appreciates warmth, as long as it is just the right temperature - not too hot and not too cold. :)<br />
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Finally, I resorted to my friend, Mrs. <b><u>G</u></b>oogle for this week's art project. There was a <a href="http://www.dragoart.com/tuts/11089/1/1/how-to-draw-a-jungle-for-kids.htm">lesson on line for kids</a>, with fairly <b><u>G</u></b>ood instructions to draw a stylized jungle.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1KMi5QuyxDg/WLMl7-R1BBI/AAAAAAABDt4/QT9CC1s07Ao3gakEqitNCRCi5mJf1xFgwCLcB/s1600/Green.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="544" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1KMi5QuyxDg/WLMl7-R1BBI/AAAAAAABDt4/QT9CC1s07Ao3gakEqitNCRCi5mJf1xFgwCLcB/s640/Green.png" width="640" /></a></div>
A lesson for kids, but tailor made for this <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>rey-haired senior! Well, perhaps not. The one below was my first effort, and Bill says he likes it the best. Though initially disappointed that my colours lacked vibrancy, my attention was soon drawn to the varying thickness of black lines. I had never noticed before how such a simple technique can indicate depth of field.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BFYLQHxBZnU/WLMl7SpX8oI/AAAAAAABDtw/lLzC5_K0JycAKEyV7eaHxncvfhS1orerwCLcB/s1600/DSC_6136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BFYLQHxBZnU/WLMl7SpX8oI/AAAAAAABDtw/lLzC5_K0JycAKEyV7eaHxncvfhS1orerwCLcB/s640/DSC_6136.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I took a photo of the drawing, and edited it to saturate the colours, <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>uessing..<br />
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that might produce a stronger effect, but then I felt <b><u>G</u></b>uilty for cheating. Bill, ever the enabler of my passions, encouraged me to buy some coloured markers. I printed the photo of my original drawing, and overexposed it to edit out most of the colour. Then, I coloured it with my new markers. That had its own challenges, as I tried to combine markers, watercolour pencils, and regular coloured pencils to create a variety of hues. Another morning <u><b>G</b></u>one, and after all of that, we both agreed the original effort was the best. Still, I'm just happy to be <b><u>G</u></b>aining a little knowledge with each project.<br />
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Thoughts of the letter G and the colour green stayed in my mind all week. I even remembered a green insect that had walked along the top of the bathroom door way back in July. I never did identify it (some sort of cricket?) but I took this quick photo before carrying it <b><u>G</u></b>ingerly outside..</div>
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to the balcony. I loved the brilliant shade of green and those intense eyes, though I <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>rant some readers may not respond as I did. :)<br />
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There have been <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>obs of American Wigeons around lately, and on a sunny day,</div>
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their green markings <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>rabbed the light beautifully.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X7526B9xZWE/WLMkRDDWFhI/AAAAAAABDuM/ERLkJCrSYzEuUZA4rY5O5fN30C5arzxYwCEw/s1600/DSC_6093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="412" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X7526B9xZWE/WLMkRDDWFhI/AAAAAAABDuM/ERLkJCrSYzEuUZA4rY5O5fN30C5arzxYwCEw/s640/DSC_6093.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
They were <b><u>G</u></b>razing on a lawn, but when a dog came along, they flew to the water.<br />
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I was way overexposed for the flying shots, but loved the exasperated expression.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>"The <u>G</u>all of that dog!"</b></span></div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>obbling on this seaweed as soon as it landed improved its mood considerably.<br />
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A second one remained <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>rumpy, complaining loudly to bystanders.<br />
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Bill and I remark on the <b><u>G</u></b>ulls and <u>G</u>eese just about every time we go out walking or riding. </div>
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Canada <b style="text-decoration: underline;">G</b>eese <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>et the <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>oat of many people but they are wonderful parents and committed to their mates for life. One of the sources of irritation is the waste they leave wherever they graze, but if you think about it, that waste is almost entirely comprised of <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>rass. I do concede, though, that it is not pleasant to walk in, and definitely not the best diet for dogs (who often seem to delight in picking it up).<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">Each season, there seems to be one goose that looks different from the others. We saw this one last summer by English Bay. I thought it might be a <b><u>G</u></b>reylag Goose but I looked them up and in the photos, their bill is an orange colour. Perhaps this is a Canada and Greylag </span><span style="text-align: center;">Goose</span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;">hybrid? Or, possibly a White-fronted Goose hybrid?</span><br />
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Last week, in the midst of a <b><u>G</u></b>argantuan flock of Canada Geese, we noticed this one was quite a bit lighter in colour than the others. I wonder if the one we saw last summer bred with a Canada Goose and this is one of its progeny.<br />
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This close-up shows the <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>raceful neck of the lighter coloured Goose with its decidedly brown tones..<br />
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compared to the black <b style="text-decoration: underline;">G</b>enerally seen in Canada Geese.</div>
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Whatever their colours, I am always held in the <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>rip of their spellbinding beauty when they fly!</div>
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Seagulls are among the most difficult birds for me to identify. We watched some bathing one day. After a <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>randiose display,</div>
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their <b><u>G</u></b>lorious lift-off was magnificent to me. I believe this is a Herring Gull, though the bright orange spot on its bill doesn't show up very well here. <br />
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Their lift-off makes me <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>iddy with joy. :)<br />
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This gull, seen on another day, was much smaller than the ones above. I wasn't able to identify it. Rather than make a <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>affe,</div>
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I'll let that go this week. Perhaps, I'll be <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>alvanized into action and do a bit more research in the days to come.<br />
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<b><u>GESTURES</u></b></div>
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Another idea I had about the letter G had to do with gestures. A long time ago, I bought a book called <a href="http://drawright.com/"><b>Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain</b></a> by Betty Edwards. It sat on the bookshelf for months and months but I've looked through it a bit lately, hoping to gain some inspiration for new projects. When I saw this drawing titled <a href="http://whitney.org/WatchAndListen/AudioGuides?play_id=1212">Preacher</a> by Charles White, I knew it was too big a project for now, , but it remains a goal to attempt to draw (at least) a hand at some point.</div>
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Gestures run the <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>amut from looking directly at someone..</div>
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to racing away with <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>ratified relief when set free on the beach..<br />
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to a barely discernible turn of the neck to check out a camera. We saw these horses when we rode along the bike path by False Creek. They were <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>roomed..<br />
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for the <a href="https://cavalia.com/vancouver/?gclid=CjwKEAiAuc_FBRD7_JCM3NSY92wSJABbVoxBWrWwjfliXUyaXeob5S6TqzCUAM7sQm9RAPAofvb3-BoCjUfw_wcB&doing_wp_cron=1488226000.9721779823303222656250#ybdeem6rA8CtAZvG.97">Cavalia</a> show that has been in Vancouver for the past month or so, but I guess were enjoying some rest between performances. This one turned to look at me more carefully, although with a <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>regarious attitude that made me pine to approach more closely. We didn't, nor have we..<br />
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gone to see the show. We saw it a few years ago and we're blown away by the athleticism and grace of these beautiful animals, but the <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>ist of the matter is<b> </b>that I worry for their well-being when they race around tight corners in small spaces. <br />
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Bill spotted them in the coral that day as we rode by, and <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>enially offered to..<br />
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look after Black Jack while I <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>ratefully took some photos.<br />
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Black Jack was on <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>uard, in case those large creatures escaped but all was well.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This next photo might seem to be a complete change of topic, but it fits under the idea of Gestures to me. These are some of the people who go to <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>ym class with me in the mornings. On Fridays after class, we often go to a neighbouring..</span><br />
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café where we are slowly but surely getting to know each other as friends. Caroline, the second person from my right, was the one with the <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>umption to suggest this, and I am so <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>rateful that she did. In all the years that I have gone for gym workouts, this is the first time that people have reached out in this way. Some have even offered up their homes for the <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>atherings and others have taken a close interest in my attempts to raise awareness about the lack of research funds for kids' cancer (a subject for another day). Caroline, I want to take this opportunity to officially thank you on behalf of all of us. It was an unusual step that you took, and it has made a positive difference in our lives.<br />
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Black Jack wanted to get in on the idea of gestures too, and Bill helped her..<br />
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show her cute side, much to her <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>ratification.<br />
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This is Matilda. We have been getting to know her over a number of years and she <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>reets us almost daily when we walk out the door. She knows us no matter what we wear and no matter how we are travelling, even following us when we ride our bicycles. She is very <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>entle when she takes salmon treats from us and we have come to love her. <br />
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These last gestures..</div>
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were taken in fun..<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0lkRT3FME8c/WLMm9kcb62I/AAAAAAABDvA/GytG-Q3jyhkD_AX08YeRcK4hftVIlf7EwCEw/s1600/DSC_6260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0lkRT3FME8c/WLMm9kcb62I/AAAAAAABDvA/GytG-Q3jyhkD_AX08YeRcK4hftVIlf7EwCEw/s640/DSC_6260.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
one day after a Pickleball <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>ame.<br />
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I hope they bring a <u style="font-weight: bold;">G</u>rin..<br />
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or two..<br />
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as I finally bid adieu for today. Many thanks for stopping by. Have a <b><u>GREAT</u></b> week, everyone.<br />
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-20289425342947873962017-02-19T12:39:00.000-08:002017-02-19T12:43:51.169-08:00Thoughts about Freedom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>allen behind again and missed the letter "E" post for <b><u><a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.ca/">ABC Wednesday</a>.</u></b> I kept putting away my eagle drawing after <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>rustrated attempts to improve it. The good news is that when time ran out, I realized this week's letter "F" would <b><u>F</u></b>it nicely instead since <b><u>F</u></b>lying must be the ultimate <b><u>F</u></b>reedom. Many thanks to all the volunteers who keep my <b><u>F</u></b>avourite alphabet meme <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>unctioning smoothly. I'm posting to Eileen's <b><u><a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/2017/02/saturdays-critters-166.html">Saturday's Critters</a> </u></b>meme as well. Thank you, Eileen, for your <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>abulous dedication to the sharing of pets and wildlife around the world!</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wlt3AMwHKiU/WKYXXACC77I/AAAAAAABDog/XbwxK5IjlGoeBBJGfPUVarVaEqUceMe0wCLcB/s1600/DSC_5680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wlt3AMwHKiU/WKYXXACC77I/AAAAAAABDog/XbwxK5IjlGoeBBJGfPUVarVaEqUceMe0wCLcB/s640/DSC_5680.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here is <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gyg60a-pexs">the <b>link to the Youtube video</b></a> that guided the eagle drawing. Leonardo Pereznieto gave <b><u>F</u></b>ine instruction but my rendition of his eagle <b><u>F</u></b>ailed to achieve the realistic look I wanted. Still, I had <b><u>F</u></b>un and <b><u>F</u></b>eel I'm learning a little bit more with each drawing. I thought I might be able to improve the drawing by adding some sea and sky behind the eagle. This image in a <a href="https://karengillmoreart.com/2014/01/18/technique-of-the-week-watercolour-pencils/">Karen Gillmore art lesson</a> (scroll to the bottom of the page) gave me some ideas for that.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YSb67CjrPSk/WKYarxzpybI/AAAAAAABDos/AdMOCbsagRsHkpaM8Cffon26B5t8AaQ6wCLcB/s1600/scenery.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YSb67CjrPSk/WKYarxzpybI/AAAAAAABDos/AdMOCbsagRsHkpaM8Cffon26B5t8AaQ6wCLcB/s640/scenery.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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In <b><u>F</u></b>act, trying to incorporate similar scenery behind the eagle presented its challenges too, but with some new watercolour pencils, I gave it my best effort. You will be glad to know that even if I were still employed, I wouldn't think of <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>orgoing my day job. :) When I looked at the drawing as it appeared in this post, it seemed pale and washed out, so.. </div>
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I got the drawing out again, and added colour accents to the sky and water and some green lines to represent "trees" at the edge of the water. I am enjoying my attempt to acquire a new skill at age 70 though I clearly underestimated the amount of time, <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>ortitude and <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>orbearance it would take to keep it going.<br />
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Having the time in retirement years to pursue unrealized dreams is something I <b><u>F</u></b>antasized about. Now that I'm "here", I realize there are always limits on what we can do in life. Those limits change as we grow older but time is the one <b><u>F</u></b>actor that will steadfastly move ahead in spite of us. All to say, I have great respect for the person who bought a kite, packed it up, made the trek to Vanier Park, and spent several hours on a beautiful day to fly the kite shown below. I began the post by saying that surely flying is the ultimate freedom, but in fact, the liberation is in making the decision to fly with our dreams, whatever they are. <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CPyTa-EmRwE/WKYFcXM4KBI/AAAAAAABDk8/pD6SonaYZpkfbaD94OMBAOePHLTPy5GEQCLcB/s1600/DSC_7044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CPyTa-EmRwE/WKYFcXM4KBI/AAAAAAABDk8/pD6SonaYZpkfbaD94OMBAOePHLTPy5GEQCLcB/s640/DSC_7044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
The same day Bill and I watched that lovely kite spinning through the air, we also watched this <b><u>F</u></b>ellow learning to kitesurf. He almost <b><u>F</u></b>lew against his will..<br />
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but managed to pull his kite back to earth before disaster struck.<br />
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I've never tried this sport. I do dream at times of <b><u>F</u></b>loating freely through the air, but the logistics of choosing equipment, hauling it to the park, assembling it, and <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>iguring out how to operate it would take much of the "free" feeling away from the experience. But, this man persisted in spite of challenges! Good for him!<br />
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We watched the Redwing Blackbirds that day as well. This male..<br />
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flew behind a young couple. I liked to imagine they were in love and <b><u>F</u></b>ancy <b><u>F</u></b>ree.<br />
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The Redwing,however, had no illusions of being fancy free. It was Spring and he was calling to his mate.<br />
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Before I became addicted to taking pictures, I really hadn't given the skill of flying much serious thought. It was only after several months that I learned that many young birds (some say as high as 50%) <b><u>F</u></b>all on their <b><u>F</u></b>irst <b><u>F</u></b>light. These two young eagles were born this past spring at Vanier Park. Bill and I rode to the park quite <b><u>F</u></b>requently, hoping to <b><u>F</u></b>ollow their progress.<br />
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There was a lot of drama in their lives, much of it documented on the <a href="http://www.hancockwildlife.org/forum/viewtopic.php?showtopic=16479&mode=&show=5&page=233">Hancock <u><b>F</b></u>orum</a>. While the <b><u>F</u></b>ather eagle has remained at the park for quite a number of years (I think at least 11) and raised many chicks, the last <b><u>F</u></b>ew summers have proved unlucky for his mates. Two <b><u>F</u></b>emales died after being run into power lines by angry crows. (The eagles eat quite a number of young crows). In 2015, a new mother showed up but she was so uncomfortable with all the activity around the park, she wasn't able to hatch any eggs. However, in 2016, two chicks hatched but she left when they were only a few days old and nobody is sure that she ever returned. Dad was incredible during that time, managing to protect his young from the crows but he was bound to the nest for ten days and unable to hunt for food. Some eagle followers were aware of the drama, and they placed <b><u>F</u></b>resh <b><u>F</u></b>ish at the <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>oot of the tree for those days, and amazingly, the little ones survived. A female (most do not believe she was the original mom) arrived ten days later, and slowly, she accepted the chicks and began to help Pa with <b><u>F</u></b>eedings. <br />
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As you can see in the photos above and below, the chicks <b style="text-decoration: underline;">F</b>lourished. I'm sorry I can't tell you if this is Ma or Pa bringing the food in.<br />
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It was fun to watch the stage when the chicks began to prepare to <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>ledge. At first they clung to a branch, waving their wings vigorously to develop the muscles that would eventually allow them to <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>loat through the air.</div>
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Next, they went to the top of the tree and practiced..</div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OCLGDBP9Svc/WKYL03iS-sI/AAAAAAABDmo/GrSbdL8gbG4uv_9x8qC69VaH3FB6I3oeQCLcB/s1600/DSC_1130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OCLGDBP9Svc/WKYL03iS-sI/AAAAAAABDmo/GrSbdL8gbG4uv_9x8qC69VaH3FB6I3oeQCLcB/s640/DSC_1130.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
jumping (known as branch hopping) to a lower branch.<br />
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This was the older of the two chicks by a couple of days. I saw this flight a day after his or her very first flight so flying was still quite a novel experience.</div>
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I worried when I saw the crows giving chase..<br />
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but was relieved and impressed with the youngster's graceful flight..<br />
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and safe landing.<br />
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The younger sibling took off moments later. Apparently, they had both taken their first flight the same day. S/he also looked really proficient to me,<br />
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preparing here for a slightly..<br />
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confused landing, but happily, a safe one.<br />
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Still on the theme of flying, Bill and I spent quite a bit of time last summer watching the goslings around Granville Island. Many do not realize that both male and female geese moult when Ma is expecting, thus losing their ability to fly. <b><u>F</u></b>light is only regained when their young are ready to <u><b>F</b></u>ledge. This is a time when I feel particularly upset when people let their dogs chase the geese. </div>
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This juvenile was exploring happily when s/he suddenly realized the parents and other siblings (there were many!) had moved on. </div>
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S/he tried to catch up with the others, but those wings were not yet <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>unctional.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>"Phew! I'm not going to let THAT happen again." <span style="text-align: center;"> </span></b></span></div>
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Another day, Bill and I walked up the street and saw a small plastic tent with these butterflies inside. I was sad to see them confined but learned that they were just about to be released. What a <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>antastic story! Since monarch butterflies are endangered, there are now kits available to raise them in captivity and release them to the wild. Schools are becoming involved in this, giving students the understanding that they have the power to make positive changes in their environment. Here's <a href="http://www.educationalscience.com/index.php/butterfly-kits/butterfly-farm-kits-monarch-kits.html"><b>a link for more information</b></a>.</div>
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It was later in the summer when we saw this Swallowtail. It seemed to be very <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>ond of the wonderful flowers in the gardens near Granville Island.</div>
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Whether outspread or <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>olded, I <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>ound its wings extraordinarily beautiful.<br />
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This was the only shot I managed of a Mallard in flight this past summer.<br />
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I did better with my photos of dragonflies, I think. This one's <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>luttering wings..</div>
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were <b style="text-decoration: underline;">F</b>etching indeed!<br />
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All of the photos after the eagle drawing were taken last Spring and Summer but we are moving into the present now for the rest of the post. Since we are still on the subject of critters, I thought you might like to see Black Jack's <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>ascination with the resident cat during a recent visit to the vet. </div>
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The cat was exceedingly confident and not the least bit <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>azed by..<br />
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Black Jack's <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>astidious scrutiny.<br />
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I mentioned that I had some new watercolour pencils. In fact, I was unaware such a thing existed, but when I saw them in an art lesson and told Bill about them, he thought it a great idea to <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>oot it downtown to Opus Art Store. It is housed in the Dominion Building (bottom of the street at the left).<br />
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What a display of pencils and pens and every art tool <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>athomable!<br />
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Bill and Black Jack, <b>F</b>oremost buddies in my happy life, waited by the easels while I made a selection.<br />
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Bill's sense of <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>un never <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>ails to make me smile. <br />
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My thoughts of Freedom as I've moved through this post were at first linked to Flying, but have now come to the realization that simple rights to enjoy signs of Spring, to spend time..<br />
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at our <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>avourite café, watching light <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>ilter through Black Jack's ears,<br />
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to admire colourful umbrellas with <b><u>F</u></b>ancyfree images,</div>
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to revel in 12-year-old Black Jack's ability to Fly through the air,</div>
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to be just a little <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>oolish..<br />
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as we <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>rolic..<br />
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in the snow..<br />
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on our cardboard toboggan..<br />
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on my 70th birthday,<br />
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and to be quite <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>lighty and <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>lirtatious on Valentine's Day - well those, along with the ability to reach out in <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>riendship to so many dearly appreciated bloggers, are the ultimate <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>reedoms that I will always and <u style="font-weight: bold;">F</u>orever celebrate. Thank you so much for stopping by. </div>
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-55452834030945428462017-02-06T12:45:00.002-08:002017-02-06T12:45:32.526-08:00Drawing, Discoveries and Catch-up Critters<div style="text-align: left;">
I <b><u>D</u></b>reamed of posting for 26 Consecutive weeks to Celebrate each letter of the alphabet for <b><a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.ca/">ABC Wednesday</a></b>'s final run-through after 10 years with the Current roster of <b><u>D</u></b>edicated hosts at the helm. However, my <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>ecision to learn to <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>raw as a total beginner, and then to Choose the subject of Critters so that I could satisfy last week's "C" theme and join <b><a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/2017/02/saturdays-critters-164.html">Eileen's Saturday's Critters</a>,</b> was a Challenge that took me two weeks to Complete. <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8k2Rzmb-BjQ">This on-line lesson</a></b> came with a video but no instructor, and pausing to piece together the steps to the final image was <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>iscouragingly slow. I gave up for <b><u>D</u></b>ays at a time but finally <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>ug <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>eep and Completed the lesson. Officially, this is my Contribution for the letter "<u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>" but the Capitalized "C" words (not bold) are a token effort to Catch up the missed post. </div>
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As for the rest of our activities these past two weeks, Bill, Black Jack and I were <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>elighted to get out on our bikes several times after almost a month of inclement weather. That was a good thing, as the snow returned on Friday and a Winter <b><u>D</u></b>reamland was the weekend view over <b><u>D</u></b>avid Lam Park from our window.<br />
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This topsy-turvy view was looking <b><u>D</u></b>ownward to the street below.<br />
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On Saturday, I took a video of Bill encouraging Black Jack to <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>ash through the snow. If you listen carefully, you can hear my gasps of pleasure as I watch them.</div>
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<b><u>D</u></b>uring our week of good weather, we went to English Bay a couple of times. I tried to get some photos of Black Jack but..</div>
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her tail-end was the view she presented most frequently. She was <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>riven..<br />
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to <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u><span style="font-weight: bold;">elve into each nook and Cranny</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">, </span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>etermined to oust</span> any and all critters.<br />
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The last time we were there (Thursday, Feb.2), the <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>ivine sun gave just enough warmth in the afternoon to make the ride <b><u>D</u></b>oable for the three of us. This robin..</div>
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peered <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>irectly into my camera lens,<br />
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before <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>arting to another branch..<br />
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to <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>emolish the obviously <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>elicious berries.<br />
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We've also been to Olympic Village Park a Couple of times. You can see my shadow, and that of another person, as I photograph the beaver <b><u>D</u></b>am.</div>
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We went there with the specific <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>esire to see the beaver but didn't get lucky. The last time s/he made an appearance for us was on July 12th, though some people told us they had seen her/him a half hour before we arrived.<br />
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We watched him/her for some time that long ago day in July. Finding branches looked like <b><u>D</u></b>rudgery to me, but I guess,<br />
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to a beaver, that's all in a <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>ay's work.</div>
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The waves and high-rise reflections in the water made a lovely <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>isplay..<br />
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as s/he headed <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>eterminedly homeward,<br />
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taking the most <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>irect route possible.<br />
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S/he <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>isappeared through the <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>oor to the nest at this point.<br />
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Though we didn't spot beavers on this most recent visit, we saw lots of <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>ucks.</div>
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The sun reflected a <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>uplicate head to <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>ouble the pleasure in this shot. :)<br />
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The <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>rake's mate was ahead, leading him on with a provocative wave..<br />
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whenever he was <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>elayed.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>"Just follow me!"</b></span></div>
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We also saw the Crows heading home to roost, as they do every evening just before <b><u>Dark</u></b>. This is a small section of the sky..<br />
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and this next shot is even more zoomed-in. To see the sky full of crows on a mission is a sight that always <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>azzles me. We've befriended a few crows in our neighbourhood and have named one of our favourites Matilda. She eats from our hand, and knows our outdoor routines, following us when we walk and even on our bikes. When I ride to the gym in the mornings, I pull over to meet her at the parking metre to feed her a few bits of salmon kibble. Though we've learned a lot about crow behaviour, we know we've barely touched the surface as far as understanding them fully. I love them and do not consider them <b><u>D</u></b>angerous, but <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/facts-and-arguments/crows-never-forget-a-face-i-should-know-im-assaulted-by-them-daily/article30611128/"><b>this article</b></a> tells quite an amusing story of a Vancouver person who's relationship with crows is much more strained. There is <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>efinitely more to <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>iscuss on the topic, so I hope to return to it in the near future. <br />
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I am always intrigued by Athleticism and <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>iscipline, so whenever we go to our "secret" outdoor Court to play pickleball, we walk across the street afterwards to watch the skateboarders under the Cambie Bridge.</div>
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I have very little "<u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>aredevil" in my personality, at least when it comes to physical feats, so my respect for someone who can successfully ride a railing..<br />
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knows no bounds. This fellow took a number of painful <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>ives..<br />
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but he wasn't <b>D</b>aunted at all by that. <br />
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He did the <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>rill over and over again and finally had one successful run. I knew he would have to do it many more times to achieve that feat consistently.<br />
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>iscoveries</div>
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I will turn 70 tomorrow. I have been a slow learner in life, but the older I get, the more I appreciate having so much left to learn. For one thing, I will have to live a very long time to acquire even a modicum of the knowledge I've missed. For several years now, Bill and I have read aloud to each other every evening unless we are going out. We choose a variety of genres and subjects and many stories have affected me <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>eeply, but the last book we completed stands in a Class by itself. I knew about the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cultural_Revolution" style="font-weight: bold;">Cultural revolution in China</a> and about the <b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiananmen_Square_protests_of_1989">Tiananmen Square protests</a>,</b> but this book brought the composers, musicians, writers, and other artists to the front of my mind as never before. It made me think about the Children as well, and I find myself looking at all oppressed people in a new light. Let's just say I highly recommend the book if you are looking for a good read.</div>
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Another discovery came about because Bill ordered tickets to see an <a href="http://www.earlymusic.bc.ca/">Early Music Vancouver</a> concert. Paul, his nephew-in-law, was performing (he is in the front, in the photo below), and Alexander Weimann was conducting, and he knew the performance would be first class, but what I didn't know is that I would meet two new Composers for the very first time. Hearing their music and learning something of their stories absolutely blew me away. I'll just mention one here; <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevalier_de_Saint-Georges"><b>Joseph Bologne de Saint-Georges</b></a> was born to a plantation owner and his African slave, Nanon. His accomplishments as a violinist, conductor, composer, swordsman, dancer and as an advocate for political equality are truly extraordinary. You can read more about him <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevalier_de_Saint-Georges"><b>here</b></a> and one of his symphonies can be heard <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MO5PCMz5rgs"><b>here</b></a>. </div>
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Alexander Weimann runs on stage in this photo. He made us smile when he said that he felt like a "pig in mud" to have such a wonderful orchestra under his baton.</div>
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Coming back to critters to Conclude the post, I will Cut the Commentary to only the briefest of <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>escriptions.</div>
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Barrow's Goldeneyes on English Bay. </div>
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A female Barrow's pursuing her Chosen mate.<br />
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We rode our bikes to Stanley Park and stopped at this court to play pickleball. Seagulls were lined up on the fence to watch the game. :)<br />
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Just to show you we have had bright sunny days quite recently. Bill had to use his pickleball paddle to shade his eyes when I took his photo. Lost Lagoon is in the background.<br />
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We wrap Black Jack up in a spaceblanket, with one of my sweaters, and then, Bill's down jacket for the topper. We bring a bed and towel to put under her. She appears to be very comfortable while we play.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As much as we enjoyed the sun, it wasn't warm enough to melt the ice that had formed on Beaver Lake. The ducks were impressed.</span><br />
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We walked around the lagoon after our game. A chunk of ice glistened in the sun.<br />
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We saw an American Coot..<br />
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and some seagulls. They flew in to the little bridge, hoping for..<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">or should I say, <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>emanding, handouts.</span><br />
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This mallard seemed to stare <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>isdainfully.<br />
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The mountains and trees..<br />
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caught the light and I noted the <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>istinct Contrast between cold and warm.<br />
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A lone heron fished,<br />
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perhaps thinking about the mating season that will start soon.<br />
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One more sun-on-the-mountain shot.<br />
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After our walk, we sat outside to enjoy lattés and cookies. We had to wrap Black Jack again in her space blanket.<br />
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Yet another trip to Olympic Village park. A female Merganser showed up.</div>
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Always love the Colours in Starlings. This one stared in our apartment window.<br />
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The last trip before all the snowstorms hit was around Coal Harbour. We stopped for Black Jack to have a little run.<br />
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There was ice on the pond there as well. These boys broke off a chunk and then entertained themselves throwing it back into the pond. This clearly thrilled them!<br />
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A Towhee..<br />
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levitated for a moment.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here we are at The Buzz, our favourite art gallery café.</span><br />
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You can see through the window that it is snowing, but we are snug and warm and surrounded by art. We <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>awdled as long as possible before leaving. I hope in this gargantuan post that you have made at least one <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>iscovery to catch your interest. Many thanks for <u style="font-weight: bold;">D</u>ropping by, and many thanks to the ABC hosts and to Eileen, Critter-watcher extraordinaire! Their links are at the top of the page in case you would like to Contribute your own stories next week.</div>
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-28514162883411564682017-01-21T13:07:00.000-08:002017-01-22T23:15:46.096-08:00ABC Wednesday (B) and Our Beautiful World (Bicycle)This week, the letter for <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.ca/"><b>ABC Wednesday</b></a> is "<b>B</b>" and the theme word for <a href="http://our--beautiful--world--365.blogspot.ca/"><b>Our Beautiful World</b></a> is "<b>B</b>icycle" so the two memes line up nicely. Many thanks to the administrators of both memes. I am <b>B</b>eholden to each of you for volunteering your time to bring <b>B</b>loggers together from around the world.<br />
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My second learn-to-draw project was quite a challenge. To <b>B</b>e honest, I am <b>B</b>lushing a little to post it, but here it is. This young lady is wide-eyed as if slightly fearful and her expression is <b>B</b>leak. Perhaps those <b>B</b>umpy tires have something to do with that. :)<br />
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I used this site (<a href="https://youtu.be/oJA4RDLVuVM"><b>part 1</b></a> and <b><a href="https://youtu.be/E7aV_k_LgWw">part 2</a></b>) for a step-by-step lesson by Mark Crilley. He gave excellent instruction <b>B</b>ut even an incomplete drawing took much more time than expected. Finally, I decided to skip the <b>B</b>eautiful colours, omit the <b>B</b>aguette and <b>B</b>ottle in the <b>B</b>asket, and sort of smudge over some of the other wonderful details Mr. Crilley included in his drawing. I made a little progress and had some fun and I like to think I will do <b>B</b>etter as time goes on. <b>B</b>elow, you can see the result Mr. Crilley was expecting. His rider is definitely more relaxed than mine. :) </div>
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<span id="goog_258907643"></span><b>B</b>ill and I were out and about a few days ago, and noted some of the <b>B</b>icycles and cyclists in our neighbourhood. We met a father with his two sons and we <b>B</b>oth chuckled at the pained expression on the younger <b>B</b>oy's face. His older <b>B</b>rother had gone on ahead, looking quite proud of himself, but <b>B</b>ill joked that the thought <b>B</b>ubble over the younger child's head might be something like: "<b>B</b>alderdash, I'm falling <b>B</b>ehind here. I'm pretty sure I could walk faster without this Bike holding me <b>B</b>ack!" As Dad tried to <b>B</b>uoy the spirits of his younger boy, </div>
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<b>B</b>ig <b>B</b>ro suddenly found himself on his <b>B</b>ottom. Well, technically he fell on his knees and hands, but <b>B</b>ear with me for the sake of the letter "<b>B</b>" :)</div>
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Dad wasn't very sympathetic. Actually, he laughed - the <b>B</b>est approach, perhaps, </div>
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as the boy picked the bike up and carried on <b>B</b>ravely with no fuss and <b>B</b>other at all. <b>B</b>ravo to him, I say!</div>
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As we continued home, I stopped to take a photo of the <a href="http://reckless.ca/"><b>Reckless</b></a> Bike Shop near our apartment building. </div>
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The mechanics there provide us with <b>B</b>enefits that include free air and oil, but most of all, I appreciate that they and the owner, Paul Dragon, do everything they can to keep the three of us (Black Jack comes along in the basket) riding happily and safely. No hard sell - just advice when requested and bicycle parts and labour easily available when needed. </div>
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Paul Dragon was shot a few years ago in a freak incident involving a mentally ill person. It happened just across the street from his shop. In <a href="http://www.vancouversun.com/news/rise+Yaletown+shooting+victim+Paul+Dragan+with+video/10084149/story.html"><b>this video</b></a>, taken a couple of months after the accident, you can hear him talk about it as he works. He has continued to improve so much that strangers meeting him have no idea he was declared clinically dead that day. I don't forget, though. When we see Paul ride his bike to or from work, with his dog loping alongside, I think of all the things that went right for him that day, and shivers of awe run down my spine.</div>
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To me, the bicycle is a thing of great <b>B</b>eauty. <b>B</b>alancing on two wheels and <b>B</b>eing able to get where I want to go is something many take for granted, but I wasn't an athletic kid and it still feels magical to me. Commuting for years over the Lions Gate <b>B</b>ridge enhanced my world in ways I could never have predicted. </div>
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After retirement, and after Bill became seriously ill, I thought biking might slip out of my life. Instead, taking those first tentative rides together after he finally got out of the hospital brought him back to health as nothing else could have. I will never, ever stop feeling grateful for that. I still come back from every ride with him feeling like we're the two luckiest seniors on the planet. </div>
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We had some snow and then some cold temperatures over the past three weeks in Vancouver and we've had to cut back on biking. Neither of us is willing to risk a <b>B</b>roken limb because of a slip on ice and since <b>B</b>lack Jack rides in the <b>B</b>asket, we feel an extra responsibility to keep her safe. Now, the weather has warmed up and with good weather in the forecast, I predict we may be riding regularly again very soon. Here's Bill in the Bike room in our <b>B</b>uilding.<br />
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I thought you might like to see it, so we went down there a couple of days ago and posed with Black Jack in her basket. I think she was a little bit disappointed that we didn't go for a ride. <br />
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Our bikes will not win any <b>B</b>eauty prizes but we love them. They are hidden behind that lovely, shiny red bike. Sadly, it has only been ridden once In the past seven years. <br />
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Our past adventures are the carrot on the stick reminding us that getting back out there again will feel SO GOOD! Here's an older photo of our bikes taken one day when we road to English <b>B</b>ay.<br />
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That day, 12-year-old <b>B</b>lack Jack ran and jumped like a puppy.<br />
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I think I am fairly accurate in saying that bikes can take you at least three times as far as your feet can in about the same time. Once at our destination, we usually explore on foot.<br />
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Bikes led me to <b>B</b>irds and from there, to a more realistic understanding of wildlife. I stopped one day as I rode past the heronry at Stanley Park and was hooked. Photographing the <b>B</b>lue Herons as they <b>B</b>uilt their nests, chose mates, raised their chicks and defended against predators <b>B</b>ecame so fascinating, I was soon stopping almost every day on the way home from work. In fact, I talked so much about them that Bill suggested I <b>B</b>egin writing a <b>B</b>log. The heron below was fishing for food to take back to the nest.</div>
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I think fishing during <b>B</b>reeding season is probably the most peaceful activity in an adult heron's day. "Survival of the fittest" truly hits home when you watch a young heron try to push a sibling from the nest. By the end of the season, the parents don't interfere much. They drop the food in the nest, fly off and let nature take its course. I came to realize these life and death struggles are training for the real world. I never stopped feeling sorry for the weaker juveniles but at least, I came to understand the workings of Mother Nature a bit more realistically. The heronry is one of our destinations every nesting season. The pictures below were taken this past June. There were three chicks in the nest, and the squabbling and aggressive <b>B</b>ehaviour was something to see. If you look closely in this next shot, two of the herons fight, but another one at the left is lying low, hoping not to be pushed out of the nest, like..<br />
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this poor youngster. <br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><u>B</u>oo Hoo.. what do I do now??</b></span></div>
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Climbing up on the rung of the fence didn't give the lift hoped for, and we watched a long time as the poor thing tried to figure out what to do. Happily, <a href="http://wildliferescue.ca/"><b>Wildlife Rescue</b></a> responded to our calls, taking the heron to their refuge. They said that a little time to develop flying skills was all that would be needed before returning the heron to the wild.<br />
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Apart from the facts that bikes are a great way to go from A to B, and they provide wonderful exercise, they often bring awareness to certain causes. When we attended a Childhood Cancer Awareness event, we met Tim Sullivan and his wife, Samantha. They lost their beautiful son, Finn, to cancer. (His picture is on the frame of the bike.) </div>
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Part of their healing process has been to ride thousands of miles, raising money for childhood cancer research in Finn's memory. Tim wrote this poem and has..<br />
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mounted it on the crossbar of his bike.<br />
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Tim and Samantha's way of honouring Finn's memory is one I admire. Here's the <a href="http://www.teamfinn.com/event/ride-to-conquer-cancer/">link</a> for more information about the <b>B</b>C Ride to Conquer Cancer. <br />
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Combining a bicycle shop with a café is a ground-<b>B</b>reaking idea. We have only one that I know of in Vancouver. We stopped by the Tandem Bike Café a couple of times, and found the food and the atmosphere to be delightful. Here, Bill works on a crossword and you can see my reflection in the window as I take photos.</div>
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The café is on a tree-lined street, and one of the trees..<br />
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called out to us. <br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">"<b>B</b>oo!" </span></div>
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A Bike Polo Association has run an event for several years to increase awareness for their sport and to help the hungry as well. Each Valentine's Day, the riders meet under the Cambie Bridge to compete against each other. They pay an entry fee that goes to various food <b>B</b>anks around Vancouver. Sadly, the association has closed down its web page so I can't give you a link, but they certainly have provided entertainment for many. I like to think the two children watching from the playground may one day want to try something like this too.<br />
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Whenever a goal is scored, the two riders have to kiss.<br />
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In the midst of all the <b>B</b>uffoonery were some amazing bike skills!</div>
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We have a new bike system in Vancouver that is enjoying success. People can hop on a bike for a small fee and ride between any one of 150 stations. One of the stations is under the Cambie Bridge. <br />
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I took these photos a few months ago. The signage on the bikes has changed as Shaw Cable recently partnered with Mobi Bike in what appears to be a successful venture. One new benefit of that is the free wifi at each station.<br />
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<a href="https://pricetags.wordpress.com/tag/mobi/">This site</a> will give you lots of information about <a href="https://pricetags.wordpress.com/tag/mobi/">mobi</a> bikes, including some statistics showing interesting side-benefits of the plan.<br />
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I've mentioned the Cambie Bridge several times in this post. It has one of the most efficient spaces under it that we've seen in Vancouver. Game events, movie shoots, a toddler's play area, a Mobi bikes station, skateboarders' runs, BMX riders - everyone seems to get along and Bill and I have been welcomed whether we are watching the action or even when we play pickleball on rainy days. Below, Bill sits at the side, watching some very talented BMXers. </div>
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Although this post has mainly been about bikes, and the pleasures cycling has afforded us, writing it without mention of <b>B</b>ill and <b>B</b>lack Jack was, as you saw, impossible. The drawing of the girl on a bike, just like this Blog, would never have happened without Bill's encouragement. It was Bill who suggested stopping by the art store to buy my very first drawing kit ever, and.. </div>
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it was Bill who insisted we Buy a proper easel at Opus Art Store after I read on line that it is better to sketch at arms length from the drawing with a loosely held pencil. He chose this easel that can work either on the table or be extended to full length for standing. It is even sturdy enough to take outside. I love it!</div>
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<b>B</b>lack Jack and <b>B</b>ill bring untold fun into my life, so here they are to conclude the post. <br />
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Many thanks for stopping by! If you have the time, do stop by <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.ca/">ABC Wednesday</a> and/or <a href="http://our--beautiful--world--365.blogspot.ca/">Our Beautiful World</a> to find other thoughts from around the world about bicycles and/or the letter B. </div>
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-11155952002998010422017-01-15T12:25:00.001-08:002017-01-15T21:58:03.019-08:00Art for ABC WednesdayWhen I saw a comment by <a href="http://westwell.blogspot.ca/"><b>Trubes</b></a> on a recent post, the enjoyment I found from several years of posting at <a href="http://abcwednesday-mrsnesbitt.blogspot.ca/"><b>ABC Wednesday</b></a> came flooding back. She and the other volunteers at that meme have truly stood the test of time. I had dropped out of blogging for 10 months, and had responded less and less to even the kindest of comments. Yet, there she was, having read my post from beginning to end and taken the time to record her impressions of every detail in it. Thank you, Trubes. I am rushing to make it into the "A" posts before it is too late, but I will return to comment on your "Z" post, especially since zithers hold a special place in my heart. Does this badge (that I have yet to add to my page, but will) mean that the meme will close forever after this tour? I do hope not, but have to congratulate you, Roger Green, Leslie, Joyce, Gattina, Melody, Pheno, and Troy for running this meme that Mrs. Nesbitt began 10 years ago so very successfully.<br />
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For my "A" post, I have chosen "Art" for the theme. As a musician, I know I fit into the world of the arts, but having never drawn even stick figures with Any success, I had Assumed that drawing was not something I would ever be Able to do. In fact, I had pretty much Accepted that idea until Bill's cousin, Maryel, visited us at our favourite café (that also happens to be an Art gallery). She had recently taken up drawing, and I was blown away by her portrayal of an owl. What an impressive start to her new hobby. I posted this photo recently but will put it here Again for anyone who missed it.<br />
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Inspired by Maryel's success, and encouraged by her suggestion of a place where I could buy some pencils and other Art supplies, and even more encouraged by Bill's enthusiasm that I give drawing a try, I decided to Attempt something that started with "A" for this ABC post. What I found is this Aye-Aye.. or Aie-Aie (I saw both spellings on line, though I think the first is the more common). This Madagascar lemur was on the extinct list but was rediscovered in the 1950's. You can learn more about it from <a href="https://youtu.be/Lp91LQZZb80">this video</a>.</div>
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As Maryel told me, you can learn to draw just about anything from youtube. Sure enough, there was <a href="https://youtu.be/RpMGQ0fhxJ8">a video to guide me</a> with specific instructions for my Aye-Aye. How Amazing is that?? I know this isn't perfect. I have a long way to go, but it sort of looks like an Aye-Aye. I'm really happy with this beginner effort.<br />
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And, because I love to include Black Jack in most posts, here she is. I took this photo of her yesterday..<br />
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and then I tried to do an Artsy photo by cropping the photo to capture her eyes only. If you look closely, you can see me in one of her eyes. You can even see the balcony window behind us. <br />
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I also love to include my Adored Bill in most photos, and he spontaneously did this pose yesterday. I think his eyes are not only Adorable..<br />
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but rather Artsy as well. I love that you can see the smile in this 2nd shot.<br />
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And then, the laughter. :)<br />
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I guess my camera is something of an Art tool as well, and I liked this scenery shot over False Creek, taken moments after the one showing Bill's eyes.<br />
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Since the café at Harrison Gallery is surrounded by beautiful Art, I thought you might like to see a couple of professional paintings. I love these two by <a href="http://www.harrisongalleries.com/artists/TRI33/JOSE-TRINIDAD.asp">Jose Trinidad</a>. <br />
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Art Around us enhances life so very much, as do All of you at ABC Wednesday for the many ways you Augment our pleasures. My deep Appreciation to each one of you!!<br />
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<br />Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-80017748100627828432017-01-14T13:26:00.002-08:002017-01-14T13:26:43.734-08:00Critters, past and present, for Eileen's "Saturday's Critters"Because there was a gap between March 18, 2015 and January 4, 2016 when I didn't blog, I have a ton of critter (and other) photos waiting around in my iphoto to share with Eileen for her <a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/2017/01/saturdays-critters-161.html">Saturday's Critters</a> meme. (Thank you so much, Eileen!) These are from March 21st, 2015, when Bill and I bundled Black Jack into the bicycle basket and rode to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jericho_Beach">Jericho Beach</a>.<br />
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There is an eagle pair (Ethel and Bert) that has been around that park for many years. That day, we were excited to see that one of them had gathered some..<br />
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nesting material and was taking it to the..<br />
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platform that wildlife people built because Ethel and Bert..<br />
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have had nest upon nest fall to the ground. Rescuing their young after these falls has had some success but still, it was deemed a good idea to try out the platform idea, and that has worked out well. You can read more about these eagles <a href="http://www.vancourier.com/news/residents-help-bald-eagle-couple-nest-in-vancouver-1.389634">here</a>.<br />
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While we were there, we enjoyed watching seagulls..<br />
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flying around the fishing dock in the hopes of catching some leftover crabs.<br />
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We laughed..<br />
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at this happy dog..<br />
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digging a hole..<br />
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ever deeper into the sand.<br />
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Bill, laden down with everything we had brought along for the ride, still had energy to smile as he followed Black Jack over the rocks and along the beach.<br />
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We saw some Barrow's Goldeneyes by the dock..<br />
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and then we walked our bikes to the little bridge over a nearby pond. Black Jack watched the action from her basket.<br />
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There were some Ring-necked Ducks in the pond..<br />
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and also some turtles.<br />
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I was happy that the sun caught the "ring" in this male..<br />
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and his mate's colours showed up nicely in the light as well.<br />
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Here's a close up of Mrs. Ring-Neck..<br />
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and also one of the turtle. S/he looked up because of our shadows as we leaned over the railing.<br />
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Many people throw food in the pond for the ducks and turtles There are signs asking them not to do this, and the bread offered most frequently is the last thing turtles and ducks need, but sadly, they believe they are educating their children about wildlife. <br />
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I have to admit that the side benefit for me is the opportunity to get close-ups. <br />
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A post without a recent photo of Black Jack wouldn't feel right..</div>
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so here are a couple taken this morning. She stretched for me, and then suddenly looked up at a bird in the tree outside the balcony window. <br />
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Bill isn't officially a critter :) but I like to have a recent photo of him in most of my posts, so here is one taken at our favourite café/art gallery yesterday. We were working on a Sudoku while Black Jack sat on Bill's knee. She kept an eye under the table, just in case there might be a crumb or other food item dropped. </div>
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We still do crosswords almost every day and we both get a lot of pleasure out of Sudokus. I think that shows in Bill's face. Black Jack has almost disappeared, but Bill makes sure to keep her safe. He multitasks well. :)<br />
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I loved the way her paw draped over the bed that we bring along to keep her comfortable.<br />
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That's the critter post for today. Thank you so much for stopping by. I know you would love <a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/2017/01/saturdays-critters-161.html">Eileen's meme</a>, so head on over there to see many more critters from around the world. Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-83151784736844931182017-01-11T12:17:00.001-08:002017-01-11T12:17:36.309-08:00Birds and Haircuts<div style="text-align: left;">
I am sharing with <a href="http://paying-ready-attention-gallery.blogspot.ca/2017/01/wild-bird-wednesday-233-blue-faced.html">Wild Bird Wednesday</a> today for the first time in forever. :) Many thanks to Stewart for such faithful administration of the meme. His photos are truly spectacular. Today, he shows us the Blue-faced Honeyeater.</div>
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As some of you may have read in <a href="http://bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/2017/01/dentists-and-drawing.html">this post</a>, Bill's cousin, Maryel (photo of her with Bill about half way down <a href="http://bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/2017/01/its-been-while.html">this post</a>) has taken up drawing. She is having so much success, it inspired me to buy some art supplies, but sadly, I haven't yet drawn so much as a stick man. I'm sure impressed with this little owl, though. Isn't it magnificent? </div>
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Yesterday, after getting haircuts, Bill and I walked along Richards Street. I know the <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Bushtit/sounds">sound of Bushtits</a> (scroll a tiny bit down this page to hear a variety of calls that they make), but often, only their sounds catch my attention as I can't seem to spot them. Short of standing forever while Bill and Black Jack wait, it often makes more sense just to walk on. Some days, however, they are impossible to miss. It was like that yesterday. Not sure if we are seeing a Bushtit's tongue here.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They like to eat insects, and though the temperature was about 0 degrees Celsius yesterday, the insects must have been plentiful in these trees. </span><br />
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I caught some flitting and fanned tails..<br />
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but no flight shots.<br />
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Here's a look at one lovely, amber eye.<br />
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The next 9 photos show their gymnastic skills. Flipping..<br />
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upside down is no big deal at all. They remind me of trapeze artists.<br />
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Two feet holding,<br />
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and then swinging on one foot to..<br />
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transfer to the other side. This one seems all puffed up with a "Look Ma...." pose.<br />
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From there, a flit to the branch above.<br />
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Catch it with one foot,<br />
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and hang on with two.<br />
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Was this one eating the green moss, or perhaps finding insects inside?<br />
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Their feet hang on so efficiently.<br />
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Wonderful little birds.<br />
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Anyone strictly here for the birds :) is excused now. The rest of this post is about our haircuts. Elvis, of <a href="http://www.zhapestudio.com/?page_id=31">Zhape Studio</a>, is a former student whom I met when I first taught at an international school over 15 years ago. It was a stroke of luck to discover him one day, quite a few years later, as I walked past his studio. </div>
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I post on facebook or in the blog about him almost every time we go for haircuts.<br />
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We love that he is very cool; we never know what outfit or hairstyle he will be sporting when we arrive. Yesterday, he had pink hair (he said it is a wax product that just lasts for a day). If you are interested, he also has blue and purple choices. As cool as he is, he understands that Bill and I are more conventional. He gives us wonderful cuts and wonderful care.<br />
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Here are Bill and Black Jack at our favourite café after leaving Zhape. <br />
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And here I am.<br />
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Side view here.<br />
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Apart from the fact that we love Elvis, I promised Bill's sister that I would send her a photo of the two of us after our haircuts. These are a fail. Too dark and out of..<br />
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focus, but we laughed quite a lot in the attempt to get them, so thank you, Phyllis! I'll try to get another photo for you fairly soon in better light.<br />
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For any bird lovers still reading, don't forget to take a little trip over to <a href="http://paying-ready-attention-gallery.blogspot.ca/2017/01/wild-bird-wednesday-233-blue-faced.html">Wild Bird Wednesday</a>. Many thanks, as always, for stopping by! </div>
Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-40644182885698387912017-01-10T12:27:00.001-08:002017-01-10T12:38:38.854-08:00The theme of "light" for "Our Beautiful World" meme.<div style="text-align: left;">
On Saturday, January 7th, Bill and I walked home from our favourite café with our little dog, Black Jack. I felt inspired to record some of the lights we saw along our route, and only the next day, came across a blog meme named <a href="http://our--beautiful--world--365.blogspot.ca/"><b>Our Beautiful World</b></a>. The title attracted me as our immediate world (Yaletown, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada) is chock full of beauty. The meme invites readers to submit a photo each week that represents a one-word theme that is announced each Wednesday. When I saw that the word for this week was "light" I was hooked. Yesterday (Monday the 9th) we were again at that same café and "light" was still on my mind. Two ladies at a table near us were deep in conversation. One of them was wagging her foot in sync with the words she enthusiastically emphasized. We couldn't hear those words but I was mesmerized by her foot and its shadow playing against the light on the floor. I will choose this first photo as my submission for the week, but all the other photos in today's post speak of light to me in one way or the other. Many thanks to Kirsty for coming up with this meme idea and to <span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; line-height: 18.48px;">Ros, Mandysea, Ariadne and Riitta, her blog buddies from different parts of the world, who help her with the meme.</span> </div>
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Here's the lady's foot in the down position. (I showed her these photos and they made her smile.)</div>
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I took the photo below yesterday as well, before we went to the café. That's Bill, my full-of-light and much loved partner. We were playing pickleball in the tennis court by David Lam Park, about a two-minute walk from our apartment building. You can see False Creek in the background. We bike and/or walk along the paths by False Creek every single day. The rain began to fall as we played and I loved the tree reflections on the tennis court, the light in the sky, and of course, Bill, who spontaneously jumped.. </div>
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into this pose as I took the photo.<br />
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Taking you back again to the café where the post began, it is in an art gallery so we get to bring Black Jack with us. She sat on Bill's knee, watching the bouncing leg with almost as much focus as the camera.<br />
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Do you see the light in her eyes? And, I love her crossed paws. My last dog, Scott, used to cross his legs like that but it was unusual for Black Jack.<br />
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I thought you might like to get a sense of the art gallery. I love that we sit with our refreshments in the midst of paintings and light all about us. The back of the gallery changes all the time. Sometimes, this nook is set up for people to sit, but the last few days, it has functioned more as a storage area.<br />
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Remember that I mentioned photographing lights as we walked home? Well, I though you might like to see those photos as well.</div>
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I'm short on time to explain exactly what you are seeing in each photo,<br />
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except to say that these are all Yaletown sights. Below is one of my two favourite places to shop for groceries. I've always loved the way they light that building.<br />
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We've been admiring the lights of this store for a couple of years.<br />
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Those "snowflake" decorations are illuminated for most of the winter season. When summer arrives, they are turned off but they wait, ready to be reawakened the following year. Such a clever way to save time and energy and brighten the atmosphere for the season with the least light.<br />
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These trees are at the corner of Mainland and Davie Streets. Again, a familiar lighting that returns each winter and remains for a couple of months.</div>
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This is Mainland Street. You can read a bit about the history of the area <a href="https://yaletowninfo.com/history/caboose-rail-history/">here</a>. We had never before noticed that lit-up cross at the left of the photo.<br />
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A train museum is pretty well in our backyard. We have visited it several times.<br />
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Engine 374,The Roundhouse and the train museum are described <a href="http://roundhouse.ca/about-us/engine-374/">here</a>. We have long admired the beautiful lighting in this part of our neighbourhood.<br />
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Engine 374 is lovingly tended by history buffs who appreciate its significance. If you live near Vancouver, the museum is free by donation and there is almost always someone ready and willing to tell you wonderful stories and answer any questions you might have about Vancouver's history.<br />
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This is our doorstep, lit up for the Christmas and winter season. Bill and Black Jack light up my life too, so they fit right into the picture and theme.<br />
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I did not take this next photo. It is a selfie taken by my friend, Lynn-Anne, of herself and her daughter, Sage. The light in their eyes warms my heart. Sage will undergo a very serious surgery tomorrow. It is expected to last for at least 13.5 hours. Sage's body temperature will be lowered and her heart stopped, so that two small tumours can be removed from the vein between her liver and her heart. She had a similar surgery a year ago that almost got rid of cancer. That surgery gave her another year of excellent quality life and let her, as her mom said, just be a kid. Sadly, two small tumours grew back and they are resistant to both chemo and radiation. It is hoped that this 2nd surgery will be the final one needed to eradicate the cancer once and for all. If you are so inclined, you could send Sage's mom a message of light and optimism at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1819260965024363/?fref=nf">Sage's fight page</a>. Tomorrow will be a very, very difficult day for her, but she and the doctors have great hope for a successful outcome. </div>
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Finally, Bill and I often go to Jazz Vespers performances at St. Andrew's Wesley, on Sunday afternoons. This past sunday, Reverend Dan Chambers' talk was titled "Cracks of Light. Epiphany" and that, along with the music, left me feeling so uplifted, I thought you might enjoy a few small quotes from his talk as well as this light-filled performance of California Dreamin' by Don Stewart and the Ron Johnston quartet. Thank you to each one of you for stopping by to read today's post. May you all find lots of moments of light today and every day.</div>
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Quotes from the talk:<br />
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"When events seem overwhelming, I look for survival strategies. As Vanessa Lapointe [child psychologist at BC Children's Hospital) recommends, I instinctively hunt for the light like someone in a room when the power goes out. Catching glimpses of light reorients and grounds me; seeing light rekindles the flame of hope. It’s a first start, and allows us to see well enough that we can find our direction."<br />
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He went on to tell a story of a young girl who offered her seat on the commuter train to a derelict man whom others were avoiding. He added: "I drink in events like this like a thirsty hiker on a dusty trail. I bow in gratitude."<br />
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"We live in a tenuous age. Our neat maps of the world order, which have been sufficiently reliable in the past, are no longer working. Well-travelled roads are blocked. The footpaths have changed. The world as we knew it has been disrupted and is cracked. But, as the poet sang in his gravelly voice, <b>'There’s a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.'</b> May we have the eyes to see the cracks of light, the heart to recognize them, that hope is rekindled and the journey ahead embraced." (I bolded my favourite words of his talk.)<br />
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I hope you enjoy Don Stewart and the Ron Johnston Quartet performing California Dreamin'.. if you wish to skip the talking portion and go straight to the music, start at the 2:00 minute mark.<br />
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-17356666317542632772017-01-07T13:40:00.000-08:002017-01-07T13:40:31.330-08:00Mostly about the Green Herons I Have MetI haven't met very many Green Herons so every occasion is marked forever in my memory. I am sharing them (and a few other critters) with Eileen, who today publishes her 160th post for <a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/2017/01/saturdays-critters-160.html">Saturday's Critters</a>, the meme she hosts. She has remained a loyal and consistent blogger over the years, showing the wildlife she loves to photograph in her backyard and during excursions near and far. Her meme is a wonderful opportunity for critter enthusiasts to see just about every critter known to mankind from places all over the world.<br />
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My first ever Green Heron sighting was on the 12th of August, 2012 at <a href="https://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=BGC021-023">Deboville Slough</a>. My bird book tells me females and males are similar, with females a bit smaller and with more muted colouring. I would guess this and most of the ones I saw to be males, but will leave it to experts to identify genders if they choose.<br />
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I couldn't resist showing a few other critters spotted the same day as the Green Herons. This was an osprey we saw that day.<br />
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We were so excited about several of our sightings at Deboville that we returned three days later and saw this Green Heron with a frog fighting, futilely, for its life.<br />
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The very next day, we were back again. We knew there were bears in the blueberry bushes along the slough, and I hoped to see my first ever bear in the wild. Again, we saw a Green Heron, and this time, it gave me a reflection shot.<br />
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I was very excited to see a bear and her cub at quite a distance. This is taken with my long lens (125-500mm) and I cropped the photo to show a bit of detail.<br />
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That day, I also got a shot of this dragonfly. I didn't realize at the time that they are also part of a Green Heron's diet.<br />
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Another bear. This one shows the blueberry fields. The bears spend a lot of time in those fields. We were very cautious, never ever approaching the bears, but I confess I was beginning to feel a little too confident that they would not bother us. I was sure they were so interested in the blueberries that people would be of little interest to them. It was a shock to learn that a <a href="http://www.news1130.com/2016/08/14/10-year-old-girl-stable-after-bear-mauling-in-port-coquitlam/">young girl was seriously mauled </a>by a cub this past August (three years after we had visited the area). That cub's mother had to be shot and the cub put into a wildlife refuge. Clearly, this next..<br />
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shot, taken with my long lens, may have been pushing our luck. The bear was walking along the road. We followed at what I thought was a respectful distance when it turned and gave us an intense stare. I have a huge respect for wildlife and thought I was not harassing the bear but the more I learn, the more the feeling is cemented in my mind that animals are being squeezed out of their natural habitat and forced into human territory. We all, myself included, need to question ourselves about the integrity of our quest for wildlife interactions.<br />
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We spotted this frog that day..<br />
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as well as several dragonflies. This one gave me quite a stare as well.<br />
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Bill became very ill in 2013 and I mostly stayed close to home, but one day, he suggested I ride my bike to <a href="http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/mccleery-golf-course.aspx">McCleery Golf Course</a> to see the Green Herons I had read about on line. Bless his heart, he had to come get me, as I took a very long route home and finally realized I wouldn't make it before dark without his help. That was the last trip out for a while so this next set of Green Heron photos were my last until 2016. They sure were active that day. <br />
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I loved the "bad hair day" images. :)<br />
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When they are on the hunt, they seem to be able to traverse land or twigs..<br />
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with equal ease.<br />
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Walking on twigs. :)<br />
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Again, more confirmation that frogs are an integral part of their diet.<br />
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Moving ahead three years to June 22nd, 2016, I discovered a Green Heron in the creek by Olympic Village, not far from our apartment. Never before, had I seen one at that location. I could see that his bill was broken and called <a href="http://wildliferescue.ca/">Wildlife Rescue</a>. They answered the phone call but because I wasn't able to send a photo (no smart phone at the time), they decided, I guess, that the rescue would be impossible. I sent an email with photos when I arrived home, but never heard back from them. I was disappointed, but have to conclude they had good reasons for this. Wildlife Rescue is an incredible organization that does invaluable work rehabilitating wildlife.<br />
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I was glad to see that the heron was interested in hunting, despite his injury.<br />
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Here's a closer look at his bill.<br />
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And another look, straight on.<br />
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Four days later, I went back, hoping to spot the Green Heron again. Instead, I saw many dragonflies.</div>
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I took a ton of photos, but still hadn't caught on..<br />
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that they are part of the heron's diet.<br />
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A few weeks later (July 18th, 2016), Bill and I were happy to see the same Green Heron. It was clearly surviving and I caught a video of it catching dragonflies. I love this video most because of the excitement in Bill's voice. You have to listen carefully and turn your volume as loud as it will go to share in the fun.</div>
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Poor dragonfly, but I was happy the heron was surviving.</div>
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He also seemed to be catching tiny eel-like fish.<br />
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Another hapless victim, but again, good news for the heron.<br />
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He was having a lot of success that day.<br />
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My last sighting of the heron was on August 13th, 2016. He caught one of the little fish, and I thought he appeared to be thriving. We went back many times after that, hoping to spot him again, but finally had to conclude that he had either moved on, or worse, hadn't survived. I guess we'll never know the ending to his story, unless, by some wonderful chance, he makes a reappearance next year. If he does, I promise to let you know. </div>
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I watched herons when I was alone and when I was with Bill. Perhaps, you can guess that the most wonderful times were the ones shared with him. Here, he waves to me from the community garden where Black Jack loves to walk. He was keeping her amused so that I could concentrate on getting photos. <br />
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A critter post without a photo of Black Jack wouldn't feel right, so here is a photo of her that I took this morning as she basked in the morning sun. Thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you will find a little time to check out Eileen's <a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/2017/01/saturdays-critters-160.html">Saturday Critters</a> as well. Thank you so much, Eileen, for hosting!</div>
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-25818171495197017582017-01-05T10:37:00.001-08:002017-01-05T18:51:38.792-08:00Dentists and Drawing<div style="text-align: left;">
We both had dentist appointments yesterday. The office of <a href="http://www.bcperio.ca/patients/">BC Perio</a> is directly opposite our apartment building, on the other side of False Creek. We took the skytrain there, from Roundhouse Station to Broadway Station. Only two stops, so a very easy trip. As we walked out of Broadway Station, the light in the distance was highlighting <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Lions_(peaks)">The Lions</a>. I used my 500 mm lens to catch a shot of them. Sometimes, it seems to me, they can be seen no matter where I go in Vancouver. When I worked in North Vancouver, they were visible from my school. When we use the bike path along False Creek, we see them near Science World. Sort of like the Mona Lisa, their eyes follow us. :)</div>
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I switched to the 17-50 mm lens for this shot.<br />
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As we crossed the street at the corner of Cambie and Broadway, Bill kept a close eye on the traffic light while I stopped right in the middle to catch this shot. I cropped it to show BC Place in the background and the Cambie Bridge with its red banners.<br />
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Here's the view as we looked into the waiting traffic. The people in their cars were a bit amused, or perhaps concerned, by the camera facing them.<br />
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Bill's cousin, Maryel (shown in my last post) has taken up the hobby of drawing. She showed us her wonderful representation of an owl and I was immediately inspired to give drawing a try myself. A huge step, since I have mostly been confined to stick men drawings, and poor ones at that. We had no art instruction in my school days and drawing has always seemed like a mysterious talent to me. When Maryel sent me a little message with suggestions for basic supplies to begin sketching, I showed it to Bill, and his encouragement was all it took to decide to buy the items she suggested. As we walked along Broadway to the dentist's, we passed Michaels Arts and Crafts Store, and so I am now the proud new owner of..<br />
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a beginner drawing and sketching set. Hopefully, I'll have something to show for it in the next couple of weeks. In the mean time, if you see this, Maryel, I'd love you to send me a photo of your owl to show to the world.<br />
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I don't know how many people are privy to a magnificent view like this as..<br />
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they sit in the dentist chair. Morag, Dr. Kleinman's assistant, saw my camera..<br />
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and insisted I check out the view over False Creek from every vantage point.<br />
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She even took me to the side window to catch a view of Broadway Street.<br />
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We can see our apartment building in this shot. It is one of the three pink-brick buildings just a little left of centre.<br />
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We both had our appointments at the same time but I finished a little sooner, and Barbara, Bill's hygienist, kindly let me take this photo.<br />
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At the end of my appointment, Morag called me to take another photo. "Look! The light has changed," she exulted. Honestly, every single person who has looked after us at BC Perio (Dr. Kleinman, Dr. Birdy, Sharron and all of the others at the front desk, Janice, Barbara, Sheryl) seems to go above and beyond, not only to give our teeth stellar care but also to keep us as happy as possible in the process. I am very, very grateful to have found Dr. Kleinman many years ago when I moved to Vancouver, and through him, to the others at BC Perio. (They don't know I'm writing this post, but seriously, if you are looking for a dentist, you might want to give BC Perio a try.)<br />
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Sun spot on a highrise,<br />
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and one more view to give you a sense of the panorama before my eyes. Those are my thoughts for today. Many thanks for stopping by. <br />
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-16907902879827071062017-01-04T13:18:00.002-08:002017-01-04T19:11:17.830-08:00It's been a while<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It has been a long time. I miss my blogging friends and admit that facebook has substituted for the wonderful times I used to have reading about the lives of people from around the globe. Nothing against facebook at all. It has served us very well in many ways, and I still get to read about people around the globe, as many of my facebook friends were former students who have settled all over the world. My facebook page is linked at the side of this blog. For anyone interested, there are lots of posts describing the past year. But today, I have a yen to blog. I will not link up with any memes until I find some time to look up old blogging friends and leave comments. For now, just a catch up of some thoughts and recent photos.</div>
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Bill and I still live happily in Yaletown, Vancouver, BC, across from David Lam Park. Last winter, we saw no snow at all, but this winter has been very different. Here was the scene in the park a couple of weeks ago.</div>
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A few days later, all the snow melted and green returned to the park. Right now, though, more snow and a cold spell (dipping to minus 7 Celsius over night but more like O degrees in the daytime) has turned the park white again, and the streets are too icy for biking (one of our favourite activities).</div>
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Some of you may remember Lilee-Jean, a little girl who died of cancer on September 6th of 2013. I took this photo of her loving the stream of water in a park, a pleasure she hadn't been able to experience very often because of all her treatments. This was a couple of months before she died. <br />
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I blogged about her quite frequently. She was a beautiful little girl and her mom, Chelsea, brought her into our hearts with her wonderful blog posts. Lilee-Jean and her loved ones "danced in the rain" right up until her final moments. Her mom has recently published a children's book called <a href="https://thechelseydiaries.com/the-ordinary-girl/">The Ordinary Girl</a>. It is in Lilee-Jean's memory, though it isn't the story of her life (that one is still in the works. I haven't ordered the book yet, but will, because it appears to be beautifully written and illustrated, and because a portion of the money raised will go to research for children's cancer. Through Lilee-Jean, Bill and I met and/or learned about way too many children who have either died from or are battling cancer. We have reached out in small ways to do what we can to raise awareness. Tina, mom to Sean, who passed away Nov.24th, 2015, asked that people remember him by doing random acts of kindness on the 24th of the month (he was born September 24th). <br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Photo credit: <a href="http://www.evelynfordphotography.com/">Evelyn Ford</a></b></span></div>
We love the idea of remembering a child's generous and kind spirit by passing it on to those around us. Every month, Bill and I pass out a few photos of Sean, along with a Tim Horton's Gift Card and a snack bar to 6 people we find within walking distance of our apartment building. Last time we went out, we met Davin Boutang, a gentleman who is now in the process of rebuilding his life. He sells <a href="http://www.hopeinshadows.com/">Hope In Shadows</a>, a calendar with photographs taken by people who have recovered from dire circumstances. The street vendor gets to keep $10 of the $20 paid for each calendar. The rest goes into helping homeless people. Davin was very proud of this picture that was in the calendar. I took a photo of it from the calendar, so this is a photo of a photo of a photo of a photo (I think I have that right). It may not seem impressive at first.. <br />
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but if you read the write-up (sorry it is not as clear as I would like), you will begin to understand Davin's pride in the fact it won Best Artistic Photo. We met many people because of Tina's idea and have become much more connected to the homeless in our community. I love the idea that these children live on through our memories and actions connected to them.<br />
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Jumping ahead, now to Christmas Eve, 2016. Bill and I, for the first time, attended a candlelight Christmas Carol service at St. Andrew's Wesley. We love that church for many reasons. Jazz Vespers performances on Sundays, an inclusive attitude that welcomes even those of us who do not claim to be particularly religious, and the warm welcome given to our dog, Black Jack, would be tops among those reasons. <br />
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Here, Bill holds his candle as the church packed with enthusiastic singers, performs one of the most beautiful versions of Silent Night I can ever remember hearing.<br />
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On the way home, we stopped by the Lights of Hope display at St. Paul's Hospital. A kind gentleman took our photo.<br />
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We both have new iphones, something that has been a rather fun learning curve. Here's a recent iphone photo I took of Black Jack as she sat on my knee.<br />
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Here is one of our first selfies. It definitely makes me smile. :)</div>
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I still love birds and enjoyed meeting this Red-tailed Hawk named Rusty a couple of weeks ago during a public education project at Granville Island. He was rescued and will not be able to return to the wild because of an affliction called <a href="https://www.beautyofbirds.com/bumblefoot.html">Bumble Foot</a>. He is very much loved by his rescuer. </div>
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This Saker Falcon was also part of the demo. I wasn't as attracted to the idea that he has been raised in captivity, and is not indigenous to the area, but his excellent training to do a job at Vancouver International Airport probably saves many lives. It did make me happy to learn that he has never had to kill a bird. Simply flying around is sufficient to clear the skies of all birds around the airport.<br />
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We still love to attend movies and all sorts of cultural events. On Christmas Day, we saw <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pdqf4P9MB8">La La Land</a> and enjoyed it very much.</div>
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Family becomes more and more important to me, the older I get. My only sibling, Sherrill, is in Ottawa and we haven't been able to get together for a number of years now. We do email and send photos and I'd say, considering the distance, we have done a great job of staying in touch in all the ways that count. Still, I miss her and I'm sad that I don't have a recent picture of her. The three below were taken in 2013, the last time we were together. I love them, but perhaps, I will nag her to send me a recent photo for my next post.<br />
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We both love flowers. Here, I was showing her the rose gardens..<br />
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at Stanley Park.<br />
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I am happy to be closer, distance wise, to Bill's family. This is his cousin, Maryel. For many reasons, he is really just getting to know her now. She makes the effort to join us at our favourite coffee shop every couple of months or so. She happily joins in to make our crossword puzzle a group effort. We always have fun and we always look forward to the next time we'll be able to meet.<br />
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Bill's sister, Phyllis, just celebrated her 50th year with her dear husband, Barrie. They are independently active and yet clearly a team and their relationship grows ever stronger. I wish them many more happy years together!<br />
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I met Mary, a dear friend (grandmother to Lilee-Jean) a week ago at Granville Island. This is the view of the Burrard Bridge, as seen from the island.</div>
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Mary's friendship is something I appreciate immensely. Good friends are gold!<br />
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Raptors were again being shown at Granville Island the day Mary and I met. There was not a single seagull or pigeon anywhere near her, but as soon as the presentation finished, the birds came flying back.<br />
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I love birds, but will admit that the seagulls get pretty aggressive when people are trying to eat their lunches.<br />
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Bill and I eat a big bowl of fruit each evening while we watch the news or documentaries on television (the only television we watch). On New Year's Eve, we watched a wonderful Passionate Eye documentary about Yo Yo Ma.<br />
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Then we read to each other from our Kindle, as we do every evening (unless we have a movie or cultural event planned). I was so happy just to curl up in our favourite spot with Black Jack close by, and listen to Bill reading from our current book: <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31549906-do-not-say-we-have-nothing">Do Not Say We Have Nothing</a>. I set up my camera to catch this photo but must have erred with the settings as it is out of focus. Even blurred I hate this photo of myself but am trying to accept my wrinkles with grace. I post it here because Bill looks great and I love the memory.<br />
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As the new year rang in, fireworks exploded over False Creek. I managed to catch this shot from our balcony. Then we went out to soak in a bit of the..<br />
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festive atmosphere.<br />
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When we returned to the lobby of our building, there was no one around, so I used the mirror to try to catch a shot of the three of us. You can just see the tip of my head in the mirror. :)<br />
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It took some effort and lots of laughter to finally get more of me in the photo.<br />
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As we stepped into the elevator, we realized we could use the mirror in front of it before the doors closed. Again, so much laughter, making wonderful memories. I would wish laughter in the lives of each one of you over 2017 and beyond!<br />
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This is our hummingbird friend, named Henry. He comes every day to the feeder at our balcony window. Here, he sits in the tree by the balcony. I loved that the light caught his red colouring.<br />
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One more shot of Henry.<br />
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A sunset sky New Year's Day made me happy.<br />
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We saw quite an amazing movie that evening called <a href="http://www.camerapersonfilm.com/">Cameraperson</a>. For those of you with a yen for interesting photography and deep reflection, this one is well worth your time. I snapped a couple of photos of the screen. Kirsten Johnson took us from her childhood..<br />
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to situations around the world that have affected her deeply, and to her own family situation as well. The movie is still playing in my mind.<br />
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The rest of the photos in this post were taken yesterday as we walked along the pathway by False Creek. It was cold, but the sun came out and there were a few Barrow's Goldeneyes around.<br />
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The crows expect attention (more about that in another post) whenever we go out. This one watched us intently.<br />
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There are always cormorants around. I love to watch them landing.<br />
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There were also quite a number of American Wigeons. This one was digging through snow to find food items in the grass underneath.<br />
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We only saw one Barrow's Goldeneye pair. <br />
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I watched this female for a long time. I think she had caught a crab.<br />
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She fought long and hard for her lunch.<br />
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She was finally successful. As always, I found myself thinking from the perspective of the hunted, but overall, I have come to terms with the fact that nature works in her own magnificent way.<br />
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I think this was Bill's favourite of my photos yesterday. A female Goldeneye.<br />
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I am not expecting many readers after all this time, but if you have made your way to my post, I surely do thank you for stopping by. And to repeat: I wish you lots and lots of laughter in 2017!Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-72462482082788201672016-03-18T12:54:00.001-07:002016-03-18T22:34:13.005-07:00One of those Hodgepodge Posts with crows, eagles, a hummingbird and some Good Fences too.<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;">Linking to TexWisGirl's <a href="http://run-a-roundranch.blogspot.ca/">Good Fences</a> meme today, after trying week after week and running out of time to complete a post. I've given up on the old photos. All the fences here were taken over the past couple of days. I'm just in time to catch up with her two-year anniversary of hosting a fascinating meme indeed. Thanks so much, Theresa!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;">There are lots of birds in the post, so will link as well with </span><span style="color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Stewart's <a href="http://there%20are%20lots%20of%20birds%20in%20the%20post%2C%20so%20will%20link%20as%20well%20with%20stewart%27s%20wild%20bird%20wednesday%20meme.%20thanks%2C%20stewart%21/"><b>Wild Bird Wednesday</b></a> meme.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"> </span><span style="color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Thanks, Stewart! </span></span><br />
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Fences across the street from us. Bill and I feeding our favourite crow. </div>
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I look forward to this magnolia tree blooming each year.</div>
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Wearing a hat crocheted by a lovely lady in our building. She has just turned 87 and is involved in so many activities, she barely has an afternoon free. </div>
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Happy crow and so, so gentle.<br />
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We've started playing pickleball and love it. Right now, the cherry blossom trees line the fence outside the court. </div>
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False Creek fences here. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Other things on my mind that have little to do with fences or birds, but feel important to me, are added to the mix today. Hopefully that will be okay with my very patient readers. </span><br />
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This Anna's Hummingbird was sitting on a branch in Olympic Spirit Park.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Every once in a while, the light caught him just right to bring out his brilliant red.</span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_sKNpu5SH_0/VtINgCezUDI/AAAAAAABBV8/ynUzxnTva7s/s1600/DSC_5111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_sKNpu5SH_0/VtINgCezUDI/AAAAAAABBV8/ynUzxnTva7s/s640/DSC_5111.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;">I shared him on my facebook page some time ago but <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">this is his first appearance</span> on the blog. His beauty is all the more poignant, given the sad story of a blogger who will no longer be able to share the gifts of nature that she so clearly loved.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;">I was shocked a few weeks ago to learn of her death, having admired her writing from a distance. We both began blogging in 2008, but she was a much more consistent poster and commenter than I have been. She was a rare gift to the blogging world, posting extraordinary photographs drawing us into and beyond her world that started in the rural town of East Gwillimbury, less than an hour north of Toronto. That world included critters, birds, nature, shadows, barns, trains, boats, cars, snowy winter scenes, sunny summer scenes, children, and people going about their lives. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9GYMlwa33s/VsOSsAEGlAI/AAAAAAABBPs/T5LbctKK6m0/s1600/DSC_1338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Arial; line-height: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y9GYMlwa33s/VsOSsAEGlAI/AAAAAAABBPs/T5LbctKK6m0/s640/DSC_1338.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">To: East Gwillimbury CameraGirl</span></b></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;">Sh<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">e and her husband</span> died together in a car crash<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, </span>a cruel reminder that there are no guarantees for anyone as to how long we can expect to live. I am sad to have lost my chance to get to know you better, Tina (<b><a href="http://eastgwillimburywow.blogspot.ca/2016/02/gabc.html">EG Camera Girl</a>)</b>, and extend heartfelt condolences to your beloved family members and friends. Th<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">e bud waiti<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ng to open (above) and the</span></span> delicate hoar frost in Vancouver's City Hall garden (below) <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">are</span> the<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> photographs</span> I'd like to dedicate to your memory. <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">They</span> remind me of the fragility and transience of life. You will be so very missed!<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56YwS0slUO8/VsOSoau2OsI/AAAAAAABBPA/pBCV-LGfr9w/s1600/DSC_1181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Arial; line-height: normal; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56YwS0slUO8/VsOSoau2OsI/AAAAAAABBPA/pBCV-LGfr9w/s640/DSC_1181.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The photo above was taken way back on<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> November 29th, I had ridden my bike <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">over the Cambie Street Bridge from Yaletown to take a gym class at Fitness World at the corner of 12th and Cambie. <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It is only about a 15-minute ride, but <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">looking back down the hill <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">from the <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">gym </span>that day,</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #2b2670;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;"> it <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">felt <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">as though I had traveled from one world to the next. R</span></span>ising mist and steam in temperatures hovering just above O Celsius almost obliterated the red banners that line the bridge. <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In this shot, I happened to catch some p</span>eople in close-to-perfect sync as they crossed <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Cambie</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">S</span>treet.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGjnMRP-f44/VsOSnIIn9dI/AAAAAAABBO4/6iN1lKNJazQ/s1600/DSC_1161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGjnMRP-f44/VsOSnIIn9dI/AAAAAAABBO4/6iN1lKNJazQ/s640/DSC_1161.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Though the streets had not been slippery, <a href="http://www.weatheronline.co.uk/reports/wxfacts/Hoar-Frost.htm">Hoar Frost</a> covered most of the grounds at Vancouver City Hall, just across from where I stood. This turned out to be about as cold as it got in Vancouver this winter. We had a couple of light snowfalls, but no accumulation on the ground this year. The cherry blossoms and magnolias have been out for quite some time now. The weather has been blustery the last couple of days, but there are signs of spring everywhere I look.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I spent a few minutes admiring the patterns </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and textures</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Later in the day, the sun broke through just in time for our afternoon outing. This Gold Finch was the first I had seen in months.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The cormorants had lined up as they often do to dry their wings on the..</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"Brush with Illumination" sculpture in False Creek. This one was at the very top.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On December 9th, we rode our bikes around False Creek to Vanier Park. We stopped under the Granville Street Bridge for a few moments. I wonder if anything strikes you as slightly odd about this photo. In fact, I have flipped it upside down.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What I had photographed was a reflection in False Creek on one of the clearest and most beautiful days we had had that month. The photo below is the way things really looked.</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6OlIsn0rXzE/VsSDsCKzD3I/AAAAAAABBQQ/aEWRNDyvSVc/s1600/DSC_2377_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6OlIsn0rXzE/VsSDsCKzD3I/AAAAAAABBQQ/aEWRNDyvSVc/s640/DSC_2377_2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bill was doing his "serious" look here and that made me laugh. I'm not sure why we had put Black Jack's new raincoat on. What I remember of the day was bright sunlight, but perhaps, with so much changeable weather, we were prepared for rain. Or perhaps, we were trying it out as a sort of wind-breaker. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> cute Hooded Merganser (female) swam by, and then we continued on our way.</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NufZVY4VVHU/VsSDs0kL3bI/AAAAAAABBQY/ju3I-w-inKA/s1600/DSC_2387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NufZVY4VVHU/VsSDs0kL3bI/AAAAAAABBQY/ju3I-w-inKA/s640/DSC_2387.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some of you may have read the previous post showing an eagle flying overhead. That eagle, I'm fairly certain, is one of a pair that resides in Stanley Park. The eagle pair below lives at Vanier Park. We've been following the<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> male's</span> story for seven or eight years. H<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">is mate, up until two summers ago, bore healthy chicks almost every <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">year, but</span></span> unfortunately<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, he lost her a<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">s well as</span> a new mate the following season</span> to accidents when they were chased into high wires by crows. The female he is with now (I believe she is on the right) arrived in the summer of 2015 but was spooked by all of the activity in the park. They didn't raise any chicks that summer. <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">W<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">e <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">always check out <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">eagle action when we go to the park but <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">when we can't make it there, <a href="http://www.hancockwildlife.org/forum/viewtopic.php?showtopic=16479"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">this</span> web site</a> helps to keep us updated. Most of the posts<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> are<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> by Diana,</span></span></span></span></span></span></span> a lady <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">who</span> lives <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">near</span> the park<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. She has <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">been watching</span> th<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">at nest</span></span> for many years. </span></span> <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QEopDIc0bz8/VsSDtMbaO5I/AAAAAAABBQg/P_g5fGqWswY/s1600/DSC_2432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QEopDIc0bz8/VsSDtMbaO5I/AAAAAAABBQg/P_g5fGqWswY/s640/DSC_2432.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A couple of weeks ago,<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Diana</span> left this post: "</span></span></span></span></span><span style="color: blue;">I haven't posted for awhile but there hasn't been much to report. The
Eagles have been mating every morning on the totem pole for the past
week. I have been monitoring them in the evening and the pair does not
seem to spend the night together.......the female heads off to the West
and the male stays in the nest tree or in the little clump of trees
next to the canoe club. They have been bringing in nesting materials (mostly the male) for the
past month.The female still does not hang around when there is activity
or people hanging around under the nest. I have no doubt that she will
lay eggs but not sure that she will incubate them properly. She seems
to still have a lot of difficulty with humans around the nest. The area
has been busy as they are building another dock, renovating the Coast
Guard station and recently filming a series called "The flash " They
had bright lights illuminating the area and the nest for 3 nights in a
row. It is a constant battle with the parks board and animal control
to contain the off-leash dogs that often prevent them from catching prey
in the ponds nearby."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here is the entire totem pole<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. On December 9th, m<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">y </span></span></span>500 mm lens <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">c<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ould only<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> cap<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ture <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">a small portion of its</span></span></span></span> beauty, but we went back a couple of weeks later and I used the 17-50 mm lens. </span></span><br />
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The pole has been braced for a couple of years while the Parks Board people try to figure out how to deal with the base of the totem that has begun to deteriorate.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-okp5nmVtvxQ/VswDq7oek8I/AAAAAAABBU4/25t7ljeX_Vw/s1600/DSC_9592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-okp5nmVtvxQ/VswDq7oek8I/AAAAAAABBU4/25t7ljeX_Vw/s640/DSC_9592.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
You can read some of the details of the attempt to preserve the totem pole <a href="http://www.straight.com/blogra/792876/vancouvers-centennial-totem-pole-danger-falling-wind-gets-temporary-support"><b>here</b></a>.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pTCkthl5GLQ/VswDraJruUI/AAAAAAABBU8/iaSJ_rraoY0/s1600/DSC_9597.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pTCkthl5GLQ/VswDraJruUI/AAAAAAABBU8/iaSJ_rraoY0/s640/DSC_9597.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
Though we weren't lucky enough to spot the eagles, we enjoyed the sun and the scenery and the..<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TM0Ole7OoPU/VswDr3-fNII/AAAAAAABBVA/sXzxY7_DoMY/s1600/DSC_9598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TM0Ole7OoPU/VswDr3-fNII/AAAAAAABBVA/sXzxY7_DoMY/s640/DSC_9598.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
wonderful lawn where Black Jack had a little run.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--NxFQpaQ6D4/VswDsXbw3GI/AAAAAAABBVE/csGgioAdVW0/s1600/DSC_9607.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--NxFQpaQ6D4/VswDsXbw3GI/AAAAAAABBVE/csGgioAdVW0/s640/DSC_9607.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here's a close-up of Black Jack waiting for us to gather our things before an outing. She finds it tough, sometimes, to figure out why her humans dawdle when there are places to go and things to see.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05-ZXadddLQ/VswDqDuegcI/AAAAAAABBUw/suOB6kZUq98/s1600/DSC_9587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-05-ZXadddLQ/VswDqDuegcI/AAAAAAABBUw/suOB6kZUq98/s640/DSC_9587.JPG" width="620" /></a></div>
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But, back to December 9th:</div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As we were watching the eagles, a gentleman stepped up behind me to examine my viewfinder, curious to see how much detail I could ca<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">pture</span>. Bill immediately recognized him as a famous movie star. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Though we go to many movies, </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">poor</span> knowledge of even the most famous stars. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I talked with <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the man</span> for a while about the eagles with no idea that I should know him. When Bill finally asked, he confirmed his identity but neither of us felt he was thrilled to be recognized, so I won't mention his name here. I will tell you that I was surprised to learn from his web site that he is vegan. I don't know why I would never have predicted that. </span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UGn1PVsq1KM/VsSDuDLtpzI/AAAAAAABBQo/IXWmo298UnA/s1600/DSC_2507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UGn1PVsq1KM/VsSDuDLtpzI/AAAAAAABBQo/IXWmo298UnA/s640/DSC_2507.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Just after <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the gentlem<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">an</span></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">departed</span>, the male eagle left the totem pole, </span> <br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7N3Nchs9bkE/VsSDul_nVhI/AAAAAAABBQw/Vxuget8vEg0/s1600/DSC_2513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7N3Nchs9bkE/VsSDul_nVhI/AAAAAAABBQw/Vxuget8vEg0/s640/DSC_2513.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and the light was perfect to get quite a clear shot of him. </span> <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7dyxfO_0zsg/VsSDumq9AoI/AAAAAAABBQs/HZAK-Xnyjo8/s1600/DSC_2515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7dyxfO_0zsg/VsSDumq9AoI/AAAAAAABBQs/HZAK-Xnyjo8/s640/DSC_2515.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He flew back to the nest, a distance of perhaps 0.75 k from the totem <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">pole</span>. We rode our bikes back that way and stopped to see if the female would join him, </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6eQmRctKJis/VsSJ8Z1mDWI/AAAAAAABBRE/jRMQCjuXo48/s1600/DSC_2571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6eQmRctKJis/VsSJ8Z1mDWI/AAAAAAABBRE/jRMQCjuXo48/s640/DSC_2571.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">but he was still waiting when we finally headed home. </span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xuBsjLDtjTQ/VsSJ71QPjAI/AAAAAAABBRA/D7OiGw5UhWQ/s1600/DSC_2582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="404" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xuBsjLDtjTQ/VsSJ71QPjAI/AAAAAAABBRA/D7OiGw5UhWQ/s640/DSC_2582.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm jumping ahead again, but not quite up to the present. About two months ago, Bill and I discovered Pickleball. </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's a new and very enjoyable activity for us that <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I would never have known about, had it not been for some fun ladies in my morning <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">fi<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">tness cla<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ss. Super friendly, <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">they invited me to join their coffee get-togethers on Fridays, and the next thing I <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">k<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">new, Bill and I were lined up at our commun<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ity cent<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">er desk, trying to register<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> for the class, though it was </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">so pop<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ular, we had to </span></span>go on the wait list<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. We </span>decided to learn as much as we could until we could register so we practiced </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span>in various outdoor cour<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ts and park spaces <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">along our bike routes, just </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">batting the ball back and forth<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.</span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Here's Bill, on </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">January 16, 2016<u>, </u></span></span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">the very first day </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">the</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"> paddles he had ordered arrived. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">It was raining lightly, but we were so keen, we <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">decided to use <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">the walls of a basketball court near us as a<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> bounce-off point.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1RDHsKWw6AA/Vsi6k80UdcI/AAAAAAABBUQ/Vmi0WVEcgdU/s1600/DSC_7200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1RDHsKWw6AA/Vsi6k80UdcI/AAAAAAABBUQ/Vmi0WVEcgdU/s640/DSC_7200.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">Even though I have never been good at any racquetball sport, I managed to </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">catch a couple of bounces. That was it. We were hooked :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YDTq6ayxxVQ/Vsi6ljm8OoI/AAAAAAABBUU/BjCOYP_OuRE/s1600/DSC_7213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YDTq6ayxxVQ/Vsi6ljm8OoI/AAAAAAABBUU/BjCOYP_OuRE/s640/DSC_7213.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">Pickleball is a great way of keeping warm. We left Black Jack guarding the various layers we had shed. If you look closely below, you will see a crow near the right, on the fence above the court. It is one of several crows that we have been (probably unwisely) feeding salmon treats. We decided not to feed him/her from within the court, but can't resist giving out a few treats </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #2b2670; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">before and after almost every game. The crow waits for them, and calls his/her friends over when we arrive and when we begin to pack up our things. Now that we have progressed to the point of being able to get the ball back and forth between us, we usually use the tennis court beside this basketball court. The lookout crow is always there, as is a hummingbird (no photo of it it yet) that watches us from a small tree overlooking the court. We don't feed the hummingbird, but s/he seems to be doing well catching insects from the tree branch. We enjoy our little bird audience of two :)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-934W2ocI9RM/Vsi6l1StAEI/AAAAAAABBUY/nvitSQdmPrw/s1600/DSC_7222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-934W2ocI9RM/Vsi6l1StAEI/AAAAAAABBUY/nvitSQdmPrw/s640/DSC_7222.jpg" width="444" /></a></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="background-color: white; color: #00336c; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 19.404px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #2b2670; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Y</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>ou can <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">find information <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">about Pickleball at</span></span> <a href="https://images.search.yahoo.com/yhs/search;_ylt=AwrTccgjrchW2GYA_f4nnIlQ?p=pickleball&fr=yhs-mozilla-002&fr2=piv-web&hspart=mozilla&hsimp=yhs-002"><b>this link</b></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b> </b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">or you can watch<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> a women's go<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ld-me<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">d<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">al match in </span></span></span><a href="https://video.search.yahoo.com/video/play;_ylt=A2KIo9VpschWPz0AuXIsnIlQ;_ylu=X3oDMTByNDV2czA1BHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDdmlkBHZ0aWQDBGdwb3MDOQ--?p=pickleball&vid=70b77931b2d6ddf4bd58eff636de6434&turl=http%3A%2F%2Ftse1.mm.bing.net%2Fth%3Fid%3DOVP.V14037da360e695198763441af1feeeb5%26pid%3D15.1%26h%3D168%26w%3D300%26c%3D7%26rs%3D1&rurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DUN5fvIQAS6Y&tit=Gold+Medal+Match%3A+Women%E2%80%99s+Skill+Doubles+5.0+-+Huntsman+World+Senior+Games&c=8&h=168&w=300&l=3626&sigr=11b0jsoq3&sigt=12b0o1svh&sigi=1316qh4vm&age=1446787050&fr2=p%3As%2Cv%3Av&fr=yhs-mozilla-002&hsimp=yhs-002&hspart=mozilla&tt=b"><b>this video</b></a></span></span></span>. Or, you may want to watch<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> this tiny little video of us <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">batting the ball around</span> in a tennis court at Granville Island just a few days after receiving the paddles.</span></span> </span> </span></span></span></span><br />
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We usually play for a half hour or so and then we get back on our bikes and continue on our way. On Tuesday, there were interesting blues and greys behind the trees as we arrived at English Bay. The bike path is at the far right in the photo. You can just glimpse a tiny portion of it. </div>
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Bill had never taken a video with my camera, but we thought you might like to see Black Jack riding so calmly in her basket. I thought Bill did well as he had the 300 mm lens on, and that made the camera pretty heavy. We had put on all of our layers again, and we needed them as it was quite cool. However, if you look carefully at the end of the video, you will see a girl in a bikini just coming out of the water after going for a short swim with her dog. I'm not sure whether to describe her as brave or crazy but her dog was definitely a happy camper :) <br />
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We not only dress in layers ourselves, but we do the same for Black Jack. Bill is carrying her warmest coat wrapped around his fanny-pack shoulder strap, and.. </div>
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a lighter coat is folded into his inside pocket. He also carries mitts for me because my hands often get cold. I've come to depend on him for these things. He's a wonderful caretaker!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm including two other little videos here that were taken January 18. The first was taken by a small waterfall near Olympic Spirit Park and is just a few seconds long. It gives a good sense of just how comfortable Black Jack is in Bill's arms.</span><br />
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The second was taken moments later. This one shows Black Jack's happy energy and still impressive speed given that she is 11 years old.</div>
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One last shot of sweet Black Jack running. That's it for today. Many, many thanks for stopping by!<br />
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-76791325946005035082016-02-10T14:55:00.003-08:002016-02-10T14:55:54.628-08:00Critters and Birds, Hither and Thither!LInking today to <b><a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/2016/02/saturdays-critters-112.html">Saturday's Critters</a></b> (thank you, Eileen) and <b><a href="http://paying-ready-attention-gallery.blogspot.ca/">Wild Bird Wednesday</a></b> (thank you, Stewart!).<br />
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These were taken on October 31st at a Hallowe'en celebration in the "Barking Babies" shop that sells accessories for dogs. There was a gathering of costumed canines,</div>
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a few of them colour-coordinated..</div>
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with their happy humans. </div>
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We bought Black Jack's hat at that store. </div>
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It is working out really well for colder bike rides. Here are a few photos taken this past Tuesday along False Creek. I sewed the ear openings closed, as she is..</div>
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warmer and more comfortable when the wind doesn't blow through them.</div>
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She attracts attention when wearing the hat, but that doesn't seem to bother her at all. She'll even pose for strangers when asked politely :) </div>
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The staff at Barking Babies do not worry about their clients appearing babied :) There are always a few of their resident rescue dogs greeting customers. This Chihuahua is very elderly and loves to be snuggled and cuddled and toasty warm.</div>
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This Yorkie is another resident, and though he only wears a hat for special occasions, he, too, likes to be snuggled in soft blankets. Though we don't visit Barking Babies very often, we are always received warmly and I am always impressed with how much the owners love their own beautiful dogs, and the dogs that find their way into their shop. Thank you, Barking Babies, for a great visit, and for your kindness to people and dogs.</div>
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That same day, we walked along False Creek and discovered a new way of "framing" Black Jack photos. A picture-framing business had hung frames from trees in random spots around the park. I'm not entirely thrilled about the idea of using precious green space for advertising, but had to admit, </div>
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it was creative entrepreneurship, and we certainly..</div>
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used the idea to put some silly fun in our day.</div>
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On November 5th, we rode to English Bay and walked the seawall path for quite a while. There were the Barrow's Goldeneyes, </div>
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and large gatherings of small seagulls that I haven't identified. </div>
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My big lens spotted one Harlequin duck to the far left of the rock below.</div>
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Cropping the photo helped to confirm the identification. </div>
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The small gulls flew in and out of what looked like a.. </div>
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very crowded runway. </div>
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I had some fun.. </div>
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watching their interactions. </div>
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They all flew off at one point.. <span style="text-align: center;"> </span></div>
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and I wondered how they managed to manoeuvre with wings colliding . </div>
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On November 15th, we were again in the same area. What a day it was! The sky was the bluest I had seen in quite some time.</div>
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I wasn't alone in wanting to record the power of the waves.. </div>
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and the wind. </div>
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Riders coming along that bike path..</div>
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had a surprise in store for them. These two, I guess, had already discovered.. </div>
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that and were looking forward to seeing their friend's reaction. </div>
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We watched in some anticipation as well :) </div>
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He got a good soaking, but was still smiling when he met his friends. </div>
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People were inspired by the sun and wind to let their playful sides emerge.</div>
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The Barrow's Goldeneyes were.. </div>
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riding the waves too. </div>
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It was great fun to watch them.</div>
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It was one of the wildest days we had seen along the seawall. </div>
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You couldn't help but smile.. well, at least, that was the case for Bill :)</div>
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As we watched the antics of this group of people, </div>
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a shadow moved over me, and I looked up.. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UTvHT4JijKY/VrZmQzXfTkI/AAAAAAABBLE/pkkZrme1hJg/s1600/DSC_8572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UTvHT4JijKY/VrZmQzXfTkI/AAAAAAABBLE/pkkZrme1hJg/s640/DSC_8572.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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to spot this Bald Eagle. S/he was so close overhead, my big lens couldn't fit the image into the frame at first. Then, s/he flew.. </div>
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much higher, with a crow.. </div>
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in hot pursuit. </div>
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Some crows assume leadership in protecting their families. They do this with relentless courage, even willing, it seems to me, to die if necessary. I am curious about this. I wonder how the leader is selected? I've observed that they seem to work in pairs or small groups. I wonder if they remain as head of the clan until death. Is there a sort of retirement from active duty? Do the assistants move up to replace those that die or retire? So many questions. </div>
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I never judge the crows for harassing the eagles. They have lost many.. </div>
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relatives to them. Amazing how they turn themselves into little torpedoes. </div>
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As far as I know, both the crow and the eagle survived. Two eagles at Vanier Park have died in the past year after being chased into electric wires by the crows. As mortal enemies go, I think the crows and eagles are evenly matched. </div>
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Jumping ahead to the 24th of November, on the same section of the seawall, we saw quite a number of bird species. These were American Wigeons.</div>
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</div>
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Although we didn't see eagles that day, the crows were sure upset about something.</div>
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Next, we saw a few surf scoters.</div>
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There was a lovely Barrow's Goldeneye pair, </div>
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followed by the largest gathering of Surf Scoters I had ever seen.</div>
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Their landings are comical.</div>
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One minute, they were there, and then they would dive en masse.</div>
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They rose together as well, often creating artistic splash patterns.</div>
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The Barrows were outnumbered but asserted their presence.</div>
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To our far right, I saw what I thought was a gathering of cormorants, </div>
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but when they suddenly flew off, </div>
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I saw a glimmer of orange bill, and realized they were Oyster Catchers.</div>
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It soon became obvious that they had yielded their rock to some otters.</div>
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Each one had a fish (not sure what it was), </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yVh_G_V_M1k/VrZr3fWPE8I/AAAAAAABBNI/Bugj6QeiGjE/s1600/DSC_0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yVh_G_V_M1k/VrZr3fWPE8I/AAAAAAABBNI/Bugj6QeiGjE/s640/DSC_0217.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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so no sharing was necessary. </div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>"See? My fish is bigger than your fish!"</b></span></div>
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Suddenly, there was a scramble, </div>
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and then they were gone too.</div>
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Remember those huge waves at the beginning of this post? Well, the Parks Board had to close the seawall by Siwash Rock because of the damage caused by the wind and waves. It actually remained closed for about two months but is now open again.</div>
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We loved this scene because of the interplay of the waves with the sand.</div>
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As we walked back to our bikes, we saw one more Oyster Catcher looking for its lost surf board :)</div>
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It settled for an intertidal morsel. </div>
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As the sun was setting, one Fox Sparrow caught my eye to bring our bird count to six. Add the otter-sightings to our magnificent day, and we were happy.</div>
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Bill and Black Jack say, "Bye, y'all. Thanks for dropping by." </div>
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-72815620130426075382016-02-05T13:35:00.000-08:002016-02-05T13:35:03.849-08:00Some fencesI'm joining up with <a href="http://run-a-roundranch.blogspot.ca/2016/02/good-fences-98.html"><b>Good Fences</b></a> today. Thank you so much, Theresa!<br />
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These two shots go all the way back to November 9th, 2015. We had ridden our bikes to Granville Island and stopped by the little pond along the bike path before the Burrard Bridge. You have to look for a while before you see the fence reflections.<br />
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There are condos/apartments on the other side of the pond. I always wonder about the people who live in them. They've made some comfy-looking places to sit and watch the world (birds, otters, humans) go by their little piece of the universe, but I've never seen any one sitting outside.<br />
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A couple of days later, I took these photos when we walked downtown on a rainy day. I guess they are more like safety railings than true fences, but both of us..</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kG-fYd5pz3k/VrPJj9lZYSI/AAAAAAABBGQ/JwMPDZaDcyM/s1600/DSC_8175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kG-fYd5pz3k/VrPJj9lZYSI/AAAAAAABBGQ/JwMPDZaDcyM/s640/DSC_8175.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
are fascinated by the many heritage buildings..<br />
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and effort that goes into their upkeep.<br />
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The alley at the side of the building was fascinating as well, though I only captured the world above it that day.<br />
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We continued down to the waterfront and wandered into the Royal Canadian..<br />
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Mounted Police store. Neither of us had been in it before. I include this next photo because one of the badges is a State of Texas, Constable County one, and there's a Dallas Police one as well.. just for TexWisGirl :)<br />
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Bill and Black Jack and the kind gentleman at the counter (a sort of fence?) agreed to a photo. Poor Bill. He is so very patient with that camera-wielding addiction of mine.<br />
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We continued walking into Gas Town. I had never thought to mention that little fence around the <a href="http://www.gassyjack.com/gassyjack.html"><b>Gassy Jack</b> </a>monument on this meme, so here it is :)<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJtd4gTOKVQ/VrPJnGe-NFI/AAAAAAABBGs/_6nhgikqytQ/s1600/DSC_8223.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJtd4gTOKVQ/VrPJnGe-NFI/AAAAAAABBGs/_6nhgikqytQ/s640/DSC_8223.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Past the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dominion_Building"><b>Dominion Building</b></a>, another heritage building with lots of fencing..<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dXC_ATS0tGY/VrPJnRWB2QI/AAAAAAABBGo/yu5_DmpzV2g/s1600/DSC_8259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dXC_ATS0tGY/VrPJnRWB2QI/AAAAAAABBGo/yu5_DmpzV2g/s640/DSC_8259.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
and fire escapes..<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7M4B59d-B6Y/VrPJnuKJ8cI/AAAAAAABBGw/yThsDv5uWzA/s1600/DSC_8262.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7M4B59d-B6Y/VrPJnuKJ8cI/AAAAAAABBGw/yThsDv5uWzA/s640/DSC_8262.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
that become more interesting, the closer one zooms.<br />
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And then, past the war monument that we had visited only a few days earlier. At that time (Remembrance Day, November 11th), we hadn't been able to get close to the monument.<br />
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Perhaps, you can make out a few fences in the background.<br />
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On this day (the 13th), I took time to examine photos carefully placed there..<br />
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by loved ones.<br />
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There are many stories of unsung Chinese heroes. Here is <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/08/31/opinions/china-wwii-forgotten-ally-rana-mitter/"><b>a web site</b></a> for those of you interested in exploring a part of Canada's history that many do not fully recognize.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aGXBmLmEK2o/VrPJpysUquI/AAAAAAABBHI/6YqX_9v_6J0/s1600/DSC_8280.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aGXBmLmEK2o/VrPJpysUquI/AAAAAAABBHI/6YqX_9v_6J0/s640/DSC_8280.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
We left the monument as the sun began to set.<br />
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"Let's heal the divide" is the caption on the building in the background. It strikes me that makes a rather good thought with which to end this post. Thank you, as always, for taking time to stop by. Have a wonderful weekend!<br />
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-77503650541314321082016-01-21T15:04:00.002-08:002016-01-21T15:04:29.827-08:00Early November Fences and a January trek.<div style="text-align: center;">
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I have some <a href="http://run-a-roundranch.blogspot.ca/"><b>Good Fences</b></a> photos to share, today, with TexWisGirl's meme. Thanks, Theresa! Your meme definitely encourages us to keep an eye out for fences (and walls and gates and railings) around Vancouver.<br />
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Here are a few from November 5th, 2015:<br />
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As Theresa pointed out a few times, it is often not the fence but the changing view in front of or behind it that makes it photograph worthy. You can just make out a tiny portion of the seawall in the bottom right hand corner of the next photo. The tide was quite high and we were amused at this fellow walking on a pole. </div>
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He did very well, I thought.<br />
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He made it to a comfortable rock where his friend recorded the moment.<br />
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Black Jack watched the fellow as well.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hkN19b_zC9Q/VplYRuT9YHI/AAAAAAABA9M/oG9HsAuRJbA/s1600/DSC_7614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hkN19b_zC9Q/VplYRuT9YHI/AAAAAAABA9M/oG9HsAuRJbA/s640/DSC_7614.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Then she had a great play in the sand.<br />
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These stone steps lead to the bike and walking paths and to some wooden fencing that appears from time to time along the trail.<br />
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From our spot on the beach, it was amazing how many fences we could see.<br />
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Bill found this pole and had a momentary urge to test its weight.<br />
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It was pretty heavy..<br />
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but Bill is pretty strong!<br />
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A bit further on, this fence encloses the food and washroom area as well as the swimming pool by the ocean.<br />
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It was a couple of days later (Nov.8, 2015) when I took photos of the pool, and beyond it, the ocean.</div>
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Even in dreary weather, that pool, fence and reflections..<br />
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are often fun to photograph.<br />
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It was hard to stop,<br />
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but I finally made the water slide my last shot.<br />
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On the way back to our bikes, Bill suggested to Black Jack that she walk the fence (okay, the slackline), and because she trusts him totally, she gave it her best shot.<br />
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I have a bit of a plan (tentative at best) to show some catch-up and some recent photos in each post, so here are a few more current shots taken a week ago.</div>
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Dec.13, 2016<br />
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Our friend, Jock, had told us that a King Tide was to arrive in Vancouver and he even sent a little schedule so we would know the best times to view it. We walked across the street around 8:40 in the morning to look over False Creek</div>
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The water was the highest we had ever seen it. There had been <b><a href="http://bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/2014/07/a-for-alive.html">one time before</a> </b>that had come close, but that time, we had still been able to use the walkway along this section.<br />
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This time, the entire walkway was flooded so we had to walk along<br />
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the ledge above the walkway.<br />
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Some American Wigeons had gathered in front of these steps.</div>
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Later in the afternoon, I took a photo to show you how the walkway usually looks.<br />
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We had decided to walk the route that we usually ride. We admired the Heather in front of this fence.<br />
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There was quite a stretch of it to admire.<br />
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Just before the Burrard Bridge, we always enjoy this water spillway. The sun had come out, there was a seagull at the top, and our shadows made us smile.<br />
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Here's a closer view of our shadows and the colourful stones under the water.<br />
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The approach to the Burrard Bridge is littered with fences.<br />
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A restaurant is behind the fence on the right. We passed it and went around..<br />
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the corner like this random cyclist I happened to catch. <br />
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This is the view from under the bridge just a moment later. The blue sky was stunning and I loved the tree (that I cannot name) at the right.<br />
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We let Black Jack have a run on the beach. Here, she is leaping over a log (sort of a fence) to return to us to tell us to hurry up and join her.<br />
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Then we turned up Bute Street and admired this little community garden.<br />
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Someone had clearly invested a lot of love and labour in this beauty.<br />
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One more view to show the finer details.<br />
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The next fence we spotted was just around the corner. I sentenced Bill and Black Jack to five minutes in the doghouse just for the heck of it. <br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Help! Let us out!</b></span></div>
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We walked from there through Davie Street Village. Note the rainbow colours and the fellow running..<br />
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with his dog.<br />
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We continued past a picket fence with a welcome sign, </div>
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and a dog park with a..<br />
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community garden in front of it.<br />
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Behind the fence, we could see the dogs playing "King of the Castle".<br />
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I am going to close with a couple of amazing heritage homes with fences galore and Christmas lights still bringing cheer to the day, even in mid January.<br />
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The house next door also had a delightful star under the top eave. Thanks for joining us on our fun walk. Bill says "hi" and I say "bye" and Black Jack says "bow wow" for now.<br />
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-76174849105678423702016-01-09T13:03:00.003-08:002016-01-11T16:42:21.081-08:00Some new and some old critter photosPosting to Eileen's <a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/2016/01/saturdays-critters-108.html">Saturday's Critters</a> today. Thanks, Eileen! I appreciate seeing your backyard birds, your travel photos and the critters of loyal followers from all over the world. Your blog/meme is a gift to critter-lovers for sure. If I am mistaken in any of my identifications, do please let me know.<br />
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I am catching up so this first set of photos comes from an outing on October 29th. We took the bike path along English Bay and Sunset Beach (Vancouver) where we saw two mystery geese. <br />
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I would love some help identifying them.<br />
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They were hanging out with the Canada Geese.<br />
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We went as far as Stanley Park, enjoying the fall colours..<br />
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and beautiful trees.<br />
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We parked the bikes and walked with Black Jack around Beaver Lake. A black squirrel accepted a few seeds from us.<br />
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A Black-capped Chickadee,<br />
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a Chestnut-backed Chickadee..<br />
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and a Towhee also posed for photos.<br />
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We love this trail around Beaver Lake (though it is a pond and not a lake).<br />
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I thought these branch reflections looked like a giant pair of glasses. Black Jack isn't interested in reflections, but found lots to entertain her, nevertheless.<br />
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A Wood Duck came so close to my lens, I had trouble..<br />
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getting the photo. Always love the colours and details in these ducks.<br />
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I missed the tail of this Douglas Squirrel but still thought s/he was very cute.<br />
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There were a few Fox Sparrows around as well.<br />
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We left the pond and walked up to the Rose Gardens. At the end of October, the gardens are not in their prime, but we found a few roses..<br />
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as well as some other plants. This branch had broken off a bush and was lying, neglected on the ground. Bill thought it deserved some attention..<br />
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and though he wasn't in the market for a new hat, we agreed this certainly had possibilities. I finally suggested we leave it for the gardener to replant, as it didn't match his jacket :) (Some sort of butterfly plant, perhaps?)<br />
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I'll jump ahead to January sightings now. Black Jack had a lovely run under the Cambie Bridge when the sun again burst through a mostly overcast sky.</div>
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Jan 2</div>
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I'm still enjoying the Anna's Hummingbirds at our window feeder. This one posed for a moment in the tree beside the balcony.</div>
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Jan 6</div>
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Jan 7</div>
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On Thursday, we saw a large flock of Barrow's Goldeneyes in False Creek. It was overcast and they were too far away to get much of a shot, but here are a few of them. I've never seen so many of them appearing to lie on their sides.</div>
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Jan 8</div>
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Yesterday, after our trip to the post office to mail some very late presents, we walked along False Creek in Spring-like weather. Bill always admires this bush with yellow flowers. </div>
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There was one pair of Hooded Mergansers in the creek.<br />
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Black Jack was in fine form and made me..<br />
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laugh with her begging-for-treats balancing tactics.<br />
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She has a big chest for such a little dog.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We heard the unmistakeable sound of angry hummers, and Bill caught sight of one, though I wasn't able to get a photo. This Dark-eyed Junco was making.. </span><br />
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a strange clicking sound that continued relentlessly. At first, I thought that sound came from the hummer, but watching the Junco, it seemed certain I was wrong.<br />
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I wonder if s/he was trying to raid a hummer nest.<br />
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One thing for sure, there was a disagreement of some sort in progress.<br />
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December 25</div>
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Whoops, one more set of catch-up photos, these taken on Christmas Day. It was another of those overcast days when the sun suddenly burst through the clouds as we were riding along the False Creek bike path. A kind gentleman took this photo of the three of us. I'm still using an old bike jacket over two other coats as a way to keep Black Jack cozy in her basket. That's working really well, as is the hat we bought recently for colder days (shown in <a href="http://www.bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/2015/12/the-plan.html">this post</a>).</div>
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Many of you will know that we love to go to Jazz Vespers concerts on Sunday afternoons. A lovely lady named Jane always welcomes Black Jack, and on the Sunday before Christmas, she brought her a bag of treats (that were clearly delicious) with a suggestion to save them for Christmas Day. Well, that gift was so, so appreciated,<br />
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as you can see!<br />
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Bill took this photo of me after I had taken the two little videos of Black Jack that you can watch below if you have the time. Sometimes, if he gets the light just right, you can barely see the wrinkles. It's an illusion, but one I rather enjoy :)<br />
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This one is just 6 seconds long, showing Black Jack dancing for her treats.</div>
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This one is 21 seconds long. Bill gives her the treat and we say a "thank you" to Jane. It is such a delight to not only hear wonderful music at these concerts, but to visit with warm-hearted critter-loving friends! That's the post for today. Many thanks, as always, for stopping by!</div>
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-18188075058936535782016-01-08T13:57:00.001-08:002016-01-09T13:23:09.619-08:00Good FencesTwo posts in one day, barely ten minutes apart! What can I say except that I didn't want to miss Theresa's <a href="http://run-a-roundranch.blogspot.ca/2016/01/good-fences-94.html"><b>Good Fences</b></a> meme. It is such a fun one and I have fence photos building up from as far back as October 25th. Thanks, Theresa! Let's see if I can catch up to the end of that month.<br />
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This is Bill in George Wainborn Park. The fence is a beautiful stone one, but is..<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sLmpvZB8ywA/VpAjT120prI/AAAAAAABAzU/-Xa-iCL5sFk/s1600/DSC_5946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sLmpvZB8ywA/VpAjT120prI/AAAAAAABAzU/-Xa-iCL5sFk/s640/DSC_5946.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
hidden behind what I thought was beautiful foliage.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BV9ct2xX_Oo/VpAjTD4-qaI/AAAAAAABAzM/UeZvAC8gAOI/s1600/DSC_5948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BV9ct2xX_Oo/VpAjTD4-qaI/AAAAAAABAzM/UeZvAC8gAOI/s640/DSC_5948.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Here it is from the other side.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b6JCkPWK40M/VpAjTlSPaHI/AAAAAAABAzQ/GKdds8MyqCU/s1600/DSC_5989.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b6JCkPWK40M/VpAjTlSPaHI/AAAAAAABAzQ/GKdds8MyqCU/s640/DSC_5989.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As we walked to Harrison's that day, we had to take a few minutes to check out..</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6AQ4P2z9nkQ/VpAjUbc2F-I/AAAAAAABAzc/ezTiutSMLn4/s1600/DSC_6002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6AQ4P2z9nkQ/VpAjUbc2F-I/AAAAAAABAzc/ezTiutSMLn4/s640/DSC_6002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">this construction site. There are almost too many fences to count. They're not pretty but I do find them fascinating.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eO9h-HVnH1U/VpAjU2jf5MI/AAAAAAABAzk/14tw1MVY7K0/s1600/DSC_6006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eO9h-HVnH1U/VpAjU2jf5MI/AAAAAAABAzk/14tw1MVY7K0/s640/DSC_6006.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Still on the way to Harrison Galleries, this is one of those that we've passed..<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PBf_rD7UVIg/VpAjVSHFuzI/AAAAAAABAzw/nRAKdnre4P8/s1600/DSC_6018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PBf_rD7UVIg/VpAjVSHFuzI/AAAAAAABAzw/nRAKdnre4P8/s640/DSC_6018.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
many times, but it only called out to me that day.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This one, is on our street, just before our building.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UcTcpHXhplk/VpAjWBeSIMI/AAAAAAABA0A/MmWR9TOfc9U/s1600/DSC_6025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UcTcpHXhplk/VpAjWBeSIMI/AAAAAAABA0A/MmWR9TOfc9U/s640/DSC_6025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>October 26</b></div>
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The next day, I took these at Stanley Park. Can you see the little bridge in the distance?</div>
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Here's a close up of it..<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UP_Dnq6ua8k/VpAj3gtauSI/AAAAAAABA0Q/TAYKia898Gg/s1600/DSC_6102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UP_Dnq6ua8k/VpAj3gtauSI/AAAAAAABA0Q/TAYKia898Gg/s640/DSC_6102.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
and here it is again at a leaning angle with a seagull adorning it.<br />
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I've shown this one before. A fence around the swimming pool by Stanley..<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l3agTWqPw5I/VpAj4dUbm3I/AAAAAAABA0c/qAFQo5XlmWw/s1600/DSC_6131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l3agTWqPw5I/VpAj4dUbm3I/AAAAAAABA0c/qAFQo5XlmWw/s640/DSC_6131.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Park's English Bay that seems new in different light.<br />
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<b>October 27</b></div>
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You've seen this one more than a few times as well. It is by Coal Harbour.</div>
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Reflections and autumn colours made it irresistible (again).<br />
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And yet two more that you've seen many times, this one by the rowing club,<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vkeb_RPQPFs/VpAkefzEZbI/AAAAAAABA08/tn-lowC8D48/s1600/DSC_6468.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vkeb_RPQPFs/VpAkefzEZbI/AAAAAAABA08/tn-lowC8D48/s640/DSC_6468.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
and this one by the beach.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KEcU7sQzR4M/VpAkew1iZ0I/AAAAAAABA1E/pGqhnqjQ2Nc/s1600/DSC_6486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KEcU7sQzR4M/VpAkew1iZ0I/AAAAAAABA1E/pGqhnqjQ2Nc/s640/DSC_6486.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>October 30th</b><br />
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At Granville Island the next day, we looked across False Creek, enjoying the autumn colours along the bike path.</div>
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We looked at the boat houses that day. I'm not sure I'd want to live in one of these, as so many looky-loo tourists hang out there in the summer time..<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mDVS-4NyzeI/VpAljAR_20I/AAAAAAABA1c/mRlLOXgp45s/s1600/DSC_6854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mDVS-4NyzeI/VpAljAR_20I/AAAAAAABA1c/mRlLOXgp45s/s640/DSC_6854.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
but it was fun to look more closely at the convenience of having a sailboat at your doorstep.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xGV7BOrFpso/VpAljMdtSDI/AAAAAAABA1U/yDaElcBXQqY/s1600/DSC_6855.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xGV7BOrFpso/VpAljMdtSDI/AAAAAAABA1U/yDaElcBXQqY/s640/DSC_6855.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
These people even have a roof patio.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dazN5BNOqt8/VpAlkGi1BgI/AAAAAAABA1o/YZR3r5ADEYo/s1600/DSC_6863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dazN5BNOqt8/VpAlkGi1BgI/AAAAAAABA1o/YZR3r5ADEYo/s640/DSC_6863.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>October 31st</b><br />
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These last three are minutes from our apartment. Again, it's the reflections..</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KGFvLpQAxJo/VpAmLJkWgYI/AAAAAAABA14/YDK9EwvJ2XY/s1600/DSC_6993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KGFvLpQAxJo/VpAmLJkWgYI/AAAAAAABA14/YDK9EwvJ2XY/s640/DSC_6993.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
and fall colours..<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cb6Cyk6Eync/VpAmLd1sMaI/AAAAAAABA18/T14P8XTgg5A/s1600/DSC_7002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cb6Cyk6Eync/VpAmLd1sMaI/AAAAAAABA18/T14P8XTgg5A/s640/DSC_7002.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
that I'm hoping you might enjoy.<br />
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Thanks as always for stopping by. I'm going to spend the evening writing you comments as we are on our way out to mail Christmas presents (not kidding) right now. See? At least I'm consistent :)</div>
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-13957582464287552412016-01-08T12:44:00.000-08:002016-01-08T12:44:47.049-08:00Mostly about OystercatchersPosting to <a href="http://paying-ready-attention-gallery.blogspot.ca/2016/01/wild-bird-wednesday-180-grey-ternlet.html"><b>Wild Bird Wednesday</b></a> (thank you <a href="http://paying-ready-attention-gallery.blogspot.ca/"><b>Stewart</b></a>) and <a href="http://ourworldtuesdaymeme.blogspot.ca/"><b>Our World Tuesday</b></a> (thank you: <span style="color: blue;"><strong style="font-family: Arimo; line-height: 18.2px; text-align: -webkit-center; text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://pilskalns.blogspot.com/" style="font-family: Arimo; line-height: 18.2px; text-align: -webkit-center; text-decoration: none;">Arija</a>,</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></strong><strong style="font-family: Arimo; line-height: 18.2px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><a href="http://gattinawritercramps.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">Gattina</a>,</strong><strong style="font-family: Arimo; line-height: 18.2px; text-align: -webkit-center;"> </strong></span><b style="font-family: Arimo; line-height: 18.2px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><a href="http://ladyfi.wordpress.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: blue;">Lady Fi</span></a>,</b><b style="color: red; font-family: Arimo; line-height: 18.2px; text-align: -webkit-center;"> </b><strong style="font-family: Arimo; line-height: 18.2px; text-align: -webkit-center; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://sylviafromoverthehill.blogspot.com/" style="font-family: Arimo; line-height: 18.2px; text-align: -webkit-center; text-decoration: none;">Sylvia</a>, </strong><strong style="color: red; font-family: Arimo; line-height: 18.2px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><a href="http://slchome.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;">Sandy</a> </strong><strong style="font-family: Arimo; line-height: 18.2px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><span style="color: blue;">and </span></strong><strong style="font-family: Arimo; line-height: 18.2px; text-align: -webkit-center;"><a href="http://mymuskoka.blogspot.com/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: blue;">Jennifer</span></a>).</strong><br />
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We rode our bikes to 2nd Beach on Monday. There was snow in the morning, but the sun came out in the afternoon, and for the first time since Christmas Day, the bike path was free of slippery patches. I've finally (thanks to Bill) figured out how to add an arrow and some text to show you approximately where "home" is on the map. We rode alongside False Creek and then followed the shoreline of English Bay. I was euphoric just to be on the bike, but the blue skies didn't hurt either :)<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7cOmD5Jn30A/VoyWwx2Jx-I/AAAAAAABAy4/6mHvZf0dhno/s1600/Beaches.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7cOmD5Jn30A/VoyWwx2Jx-I/AAAAAAABAy4/6mHvZf0dhno/s640/Beaches.png" width="544" /></a></div>
A few Surf Skoters were in the bay. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t8eytiQfDDw/VovOQbpD8yI/AAAAAAABAt8/wB3CXF8MNkg/s1600/DSC_4506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t8eytiQfDDw/VovOQbpD8yI/AAAAAAABAt8/wB3CXF8MNkg/s640/DSC_4506.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I've never managed a good capture of these birds but always love to see them. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EUprW9gaHCA/VovOYW6YLHI/AAAAAAABAwg/k-645ZtXXZ4/s1600/DSC_4744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EUprW9gaHCA/VovOYW6YLHI/AAAAAAABAwg/k-645ZtXXZ4/s640/DSC_4744.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Far in the distance, three other birds made their way across the bay. At first, I thought they might be cormorants or Surf Skoters, but the translucent flashes of orange suggested Oyster Catchers.<br />
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Seeing Oystercatchers is always a big deal, though my knowledge about them is scanty. <a href="http://www.miss604.com/2014/07/oystercatchers-along-the-stanley-park-seawall.html"><b>This site</b></a>, describing the Black Oystercatchers of Stanley Park, was a helpful one. I learned that they spend their entire life cycle along a fairly short stretch of Stanley Park's shoreline. That amazed me, as our sightings have been so rare that I still feel it has been a rare bit of good luck when one appears. The video below is also excellent. It is over six minutes long, but is beautifully filmed and narrated, giving a personal account by a knowledgeable birder. Finally, if you are curious about the sound of oystercatchers<b>, </b>scroll down a bit at <a href="https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Black_Oystercatcher/sounds"><b>this link</b></a>. <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CIZ3meC8LBo" width="560"></iframe>
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Though we kept a respectful distance (I used my 500 mm lens), all the birds left after we arrived except for one. That bird appeared at first to..<br />
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have a broken leg (or wing?)..<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zr9Y9sul6_U/VovORQlFk7I/AAAAAAABAuQ/jxl3BvBbMfU/s1600/DSC_4521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zr9Y9sul6_U/VovORQlFk7I/AAAAAAABAuQ/jxl3BvBbMfU/s640/DSC_4521.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
but then it walked away on two legs..<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8FOJgmzXALI/VovORmB7_TI/AAAAAAABAuY/DL99LjnRtQY/s1600/DSC_4524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8FOJgmzXALI/VovORmB7_TI/AAAAAAABAuY/DL99LjnRtQY/s640/DSC_4524.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
so I think it was fine.<br />
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Bill left for a few minutes and when Black Jack saw him returning, she flew over the logs to reach him at a speed that makes it hard to believe she is 11 yrs 3 mos old. (I've been telling people she's 10 for a long time, but I guess I was dreaming.)<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>"I missed you, Bill!"</b></span></div>
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She ran just as quickly back to me..<br />
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and continued to fly between us until we were together. She has no interest in birds but Bill picked her up to make sure we weren't stressing the Oystercatchers.<br />
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This shot was a mistake (focus on the water instead of the bird) but I liked it.<br />
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The loner that stayed behind when the others left seemed to have no fear of us. Below, s/he walks toward us. </div>
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S/he appeared to be skilled at finding food. I learned from the site linked above that Oystercatchers have two hunting styles: they are either stabbers or hammerers. The stabbing method is a bit more refined as they wait<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Lato, LatoB, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16.8px; line-height: 26.88px; text-align: justify;"> </span>until the mussel or clam relaxes a bit and opens up. Then they stab their bill into the opening to get at their prey. Hammerers just pound the shell until it breaks apart.<br />
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The Stanley Park Oystercatchers are stabbers. It takes them about three years to perfect this system, and so they stay with their parents for longer than many birds.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>"Yes!"</b></span></div>
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We wondered if washing their catch was part of the preparation process.<br />
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I wonder why this particular bird was so at ease around us. </div>
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There is something rather comical..<br />
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about their walking style.<br />
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One thing for sure, the hunting was good for our friend.<br />
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As we walked up this favourite path to our parked bikes, I asked Bill to pose for..</div>
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a photo in front of the red berries that have brightened the area for several..<br />
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months. I love his mischievous look here as he plans a little salute.<br />
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I am posting two short videos that I took. Video is not my strength and I had the 500 mm lens on with no tripod, so they're a bit shaky. In this first one (26 seconds), the Oystercatcher nimbly balances on one leg, scratches a bit, and then hops over the rocks to another feeding spot.</div>
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This second one is 43 seconds. It is also wobbly but gives you a fairly good idea of their walking style and their stabbing technique. </div>
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That's it for Oystercatchers this week. If you've never had the chance to observe them, Stanley Park's seawall might be a great place to start. Happy weekend, everyone. Many thanks for stopping by!</div>
Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-51379325361919654722016-01-03T00:04:00.001-08:002016-01-03T01:14:14.479-08:00New Year's Day Critters for Eileen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There was a heavy frost on the ground and mist over False Creek when I woke up on New Year's Day. By breakfast time (8ish) the fog had rolled in and the high-rises were faint shafts of light in the distance. The lady in the apartment above us feeds the birds. We're not actually allowed to do that, but I'm happy she does as we love to see them gathered in the tree outside our balcony window. She takes care of the <b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Two_Little_Dickie_Birds">Dickie Birds</a> </b>(as Bill calls them) and we take care of.. </div>
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the hummingbirds and a few of the crows. When a hummingbird first appeared in the tree outside our balcony window on September 4th, we decided to go that very day to Wild Birds Unlimited to buy a feeder. The one we chose has suction cups that hold it against the balcony window. I filled it with sugar water (4 parts water to 1 part sugar), and changed it every few days as recommended, but it wasn't until two months later, on November 3rd, that we celebrated our first visit. Now, we see them regularly at breakfast time and at various intervals throughout the day. We're not sure how many use the feeder as we can't tell them apart. To date, there has never been more than one at the feeder, though we've seen a couple chasing each other past the trees. We noticed two styles of feeding. Some take a quick sip and then hover, usually at the left or centre of the feeder.<br />
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Others sit for a few minutes on the right side, taking long sips,</div>
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The above photos were taken in early November, on the same day as the ones of this crow. We are still trying to settle on a crow-feeding system that will be manageable. I was hoping to feed just a couple of crows, but they tend to tell their friends, and some of them can be a bit aggressive, dive-bombing us as we walk along the street if they feel we're a bit too slow with the hand-outs. I don't know about Bill, but I feel wracked with guilt when I forget to bring treats with me. I had to have a heart-to-heart with this one, when it found the balcony and thought that would be the perfect feeding spot. <br />
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S/he was so close to me, I had to back away to get this shot. S/he stared,<br />
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trying to understand my words, and ever since, has been especially cooperative. S/he doesn't fly onto the balcony any more, but knows that I leave the apartment around 9:00 (I go to a gym class each day at 9:15) so s/he usually flies to a spot where I can drop some of Black Jack's salmon treats at the base of a tree or by a parking metre. Lately, she flies when s/he sees me to a spot on a cement ledge attached to the neighbouring apartment building. That ledge is the perfect height for face to face contact. His/her stare is eery and wonderful because it's so direct and so.. knowing. S/he never caws at me, doesn't dive-bomb, and when I say there are no more treats, she leaves quietly. S/he has excellent manners :)<br />
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But, getting back to our day yesterday :) The fog lifted and the sun caught some lovely detail in Henrietta's head before she..</div>
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headed back to the tree. </div>
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There, too, the sun was able to reach through the branches to highlight her aqua-green feathers.<br />
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I wonder if she catches insects from that perch.<br />
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Her bill and the branch lined up so perfectly in this next shot, I thought at first I was seeing the longest-tongued hummer on the planet :)<br />
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The chick-a-dees looked to the apartment above, waiting, I guess, for the..<br />
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the feeder to be filled up.<br />
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My last "hummer" shot of the day was of Henry, or perhaps Henrietta, now high in the tree, and hopefully warmed up after the sugar water.<br />
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Bill and I took the aquabus across False Creek in the afternoon. With the fog..<br />
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lifted, the bright blue skies yielded amazingly detailed reflections.<br />
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This was taken through the boat's plastic window so it isn't the clearest, but you can see the Cambie Bridge in the background.</div>
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Our #2 route took us from the Yaletown stop to Spy Glass. If you can make out the print on this map, you will see it's a very short trip.<br />
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There's Bill by Spy Glass landing. He carries Black jack's coat, my hat, and often my mitts (that he picks up from the ground when they fall). He is ever ready to save the day, the minute I appear cold, or Black Jack shivers. Just one of a kazillion reasons why I love him.</div>
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From there, we walked to Broadway Street to meet our friend, Jock. It was Bill who spotted this lovely hat perched on a pole.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope the person that lost it will </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">eventually </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">find it. (They clearly need a "BIll" in their life!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Black Jack wasn't allowed in the Blenz café, so we sat outside for our treats.</span><br />
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It was pretty cold (for Vancouver) and Black Jack, even with her coat on, began to shiver until Bill tucked her inside his down jacket. It was great to touch base with Jock on New Year's Day.. he's a good friend and time with him is always fun.<br />
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We decided to walk home over the Cambie Bridge rather than take the ferry. There was just enough sun, and we walked just quickly enough, that we managed to stay reasonably warm.<br />
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The last burst of sun caught the side of our building. There's that glass partition I was telling you about yesterday. This time, I took the whole panel, and loved the beams of sunlight filtering through and around it.<br />
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Well, 15 minutes left before the third day of 2016. Just time to show you a couple of photos taken at the end of October that were never shared. Below is Cathy, one of our wonderful neighbours with her little dog, Frankie.</div>
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That day, the hedge between the walking path and the bike path had just about shed its beautiful red leaves but I thought it made a wonderful backdrop to..<br />
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highlight a sweet dog and a delightful friend.<br />
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I don't know the name of this hedge. Perhaps a reader can id it for me.<br />
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And since we're talking critters, here's a poodle that Bill and I saw later that afternoon. Poor thing really wanted to play but all the dogs in the park ignored him. Could they have objected to his haircut?<br />
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A little further on, we watched this squirrel..</div>
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and marvelled at the size of the nearby mushrooms.<br />
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That day, we walked along the seawall. I loved this shot of wide-eyed Black Jack.<br />
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We had some fun playing on the beach.<br />
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Bill got a bit wild and crazy with these bull whips that had washed up on the beach, but I promise no one was injured..<br />
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in the taking of this photo :)<br />
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We walked back up this path. It is one of my favourites,<br />
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with the red berries at the top always seeming to welcome us. That's it for today. Rushing to post before midnight. Many thanks to you for stopping by, and to Eileen for her wonderful <a href="http://viewingnaturewitheileen.blogspot.ca/"><b>critter meme</b></a>. Check it out. It's a great one. Whoops, the clock just struck midnight. <b><a href="http://seasonsinthevalley.blogspot.ca/2016/01/belated-christmas-visit.html">Furry Gnome</a> </b>(a fascinating blog to check out as well), I think of you these days whenever my posts are too long. Promise I'm working on it. Will try to stick to the plan tomorrow :)<br />
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-17289878366787804462016-01-01T11:01:00.002-08:002016-01-01T12:06:49.109-08:00 A few fences and a some thoughts for 2016!<div style="text-align: left;">
On Wednesday, when Bev, Mary, Bill and I walked and talked together, we laughed a lot (previous post), but when we stopped by Harrison Gallery's café for delicious food and more conversation, there was a serious moment as well. Bev's words of wisdom were to "live every day as though it could be our last." That cliché is one of those that I would appreciate someone whispering in my ear every hour, if not every minute. Yesterday was a good day, but if it had been my last on earth, I would have replayed parts of it. I suspect that is true of most of us on most days, so my wish for all of us on this first day of 2016 is not, as I planned when I began the post, for good health, or happiness, or love or even peace, but rather for the capacity to live honestly, kindly, fully.. minute by minute, hour by hour, day by day.. with no regrets when we review our actions. Below, a beam of yesterday's sunlight falls across False Creek. Perhaps, it symbolizes my "aha" moment. If you look carefully, you will see a fence in the background, and that brings me to Theresa's <a href="http://run-a-roundranch.blogspot.ca/"><b>Good Fences</b></a> meme.</div>
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There were lots of fences to admire as we went about our day yesterday, and as has frequently happened over the past months, I thought of Theresa when I noticed them. Fences represent more than one might first think. Keep out, keep in, stay safe, step over the gateway into my world.. goodness, there's even a movie called "Good Fences" that I just discovered. Theresa must have suspected the appeal of fences, because her meme is extraordinarily successful. Stop by for a visit, if you have a few minutes, meet Theresa and gain a whole new perspective on fences. You may find yourself not only returning to visit but posting photos of the fences in your world as well.</div>
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Vancouver's sun yesterday sent False Creek reflections..</div>
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to travellers on the Cambie Bridge..<br />
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and walkers/bikers along the seawall.<br />
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It was cold enough for warm clothes, bright enough for shades or hat brims, and..<br />
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cozy enough for my dear Bill and Black Jack to snuggle and bask in the sunlight.<br />
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I joined them, camera in hand, gazing over the fence to catch reflections of yachts whose owners dreamed of being a free spirit..<br />
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and high-rises wiggling and rippling their way to the depths of the creek<br />
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We walked on, stopping to watch the always entertaining cormorants. This one posed demurely on one of the bases of the "Brush with Illumination" sculpture (shown in yesterday's post).<br />
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Above him/her, a new arrival (front, left) forced the others to adjust delicately balanced positions.<br />
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I would love to know the family connections of the cormorants. Perhaps, a parent arrived to deposit a tidbit of food in a youngster's mouth, or perhaps, a juvenile was saying, "Look Ma/Pa, I'm getting pretty good at this landing thing."<br />
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Whatever the relationships, I'm pretty sure all the cormorants were loving the..<br />
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opportunity to dry their wings..<br />
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and feel the sun on their chests.<br />
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Bill and I wondered if the seagulls were as blinded by the sun as we were and laughed at the thought of outfitting them with visors.<br />
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A flock of American Wigeons grazed in the grass above False Creek.<br />
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There always seemed to be one standing watch.</div>
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My challenge was to catch the green patch behind their eyes that flashed only for a second when the sun caught it in just the right way.<br />
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Someone let their dog run free and at a signal from the watchduck, heads raised in unison and wings flashed way too quickly for my camera..<br />
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as they made their way to the water.<br />
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You are probably wondering about the fence theme. Below is one glass panel from a decorative partition (sort of a fence) outside our building. From second..<br />
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to second, the colours shifted, depending on the sun's angle against it.<br />
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Behind the partition, berries climbed the wall.<br />
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A lone sparrow sat on a branch, perhaps wondering it the berries would make a good snack.<br />
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Those were a few things and thoughts that caught my attention yesterday. Thanks for letting me share them. Here's to a day lived fully and kindly. </div>
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-80978541865530147922015-12-31T01:51:00.001-08:002015-12-31T01:51:10.904-08:00A few birds and a lot of laughter with friends Two parts to this post:<br />
1. Birds seen October 10th, 2015 for Stewart's <a href="http://paying-ready-attention-gallery.blogspot.ca/2015/12/wild-bird-wednesday-179-2015-highlights.html">Wild Bird Wednesday</a> meme.<br />
2. A recap of our day with two delightful friends, Mary and Bev. <br />
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*I've already strayed from my carefully laid out plan to spend no more than an hour writing a post. Back to the drawing board tomorrow :)<br />
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<b>Part 1: Wild Bird Wednesday</b></div>
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A lone white goose hung out at Sunset Beach with the Canada Geese.</div>
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I'm guessing it was a Snow Goose. We saw it for a few days and then it disappeared, hopefully catching up with the other members of its flock.<br />
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It was a little bit smaller than the Canada Geese and seemed to have the same..<br />
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grazing habits.<br />
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The same day, we saw several clusters of Barrow's Goldeneyes.<br />
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One or two Surf Skoters appeared in the midst of the Goldeneyes.<br />
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This lone Killdeer showed up at the edge of the beach.<br />
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At first, we thought it might be injured..<br />
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but after remaining in one spot for a long time, it finally turned,<br />
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took a look at us,<br />
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and then walked away with a decidedly..<br />
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jaunty step. I think it was fine, after all.<br />
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<b>Part 2: A recap of our day today with Mary and Bev</b></div>
Mary (<a href="http://bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/2013/09/lilee-jean.html"><b>Lilee -Jean</b></a>'s grandmother) drove for over an hour from the Fraser Valley to spend time with us in Vancouver today. We laughed and laughed with her and with her friend, Bev. Our first stop was to look at the cormorants on the "Brush with Illumination" sculpture by Buster Simpson. Mary had a new and wonderful hat. But more about that later.<br />
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I wonder if Mr. Simpson had any idea his sculpture would be such a popular one with the cormorants. It is fascinating to watch the juveniles practice landings and take-offs on the slippery railings. I wrote a story that you can read <a href="http://bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/2013/03/orans-story.html"><b>here</b></a> about one determined young cormorant that struggled with landing technique. <br />
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Bev was meeting Bill for the first time but their love of laughter gave them an instant connection.<br />
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The day was magnificent, with some of the bluest skies we've seen in quite a while. I had fun taking reflection shots by the Granville Bridge.<br />
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Black Jack had a lot of running to do to keep track of the four of us.<br />
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We spaced ourselves out on the beach and Black Jack's job was to run to the person that called her. She was a bit confused at first, but once she caught on, she went into super-speedy mode. I love this "greyhound" posture when she runs so fast, her back feet land in front of her front feet. <br />
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She had to skid to a halt to get her treat from Bev. She is about ten and a half now. Recently, when we visited our vet for a dental check, he discovered that she has a grade 2-3 heart murmur . He asked if she was coughing or showing exercise-induced fatigue. In fact, she isn't showing those symptoms and her blood tests came back normal. I've decided to carry on with our regular activities and have opted not to do an ultrasound. Even if there is something concerning going on with her heart, we wouldn't be considering surgery or any other invasive treatment. I'd rather that she do the activities she enjoys most even if that means a shorter life span. I think/hope the trade-off in happiness will be worth it.<br />
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After a few tries, she sat politely for her treats.<br />
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How lucky we are to live in Vancouver. We have great walk-on-the-beach weather as the new year approaches, but there is lots of snow in the nearby mountains for those who want to ski, snowboard or snowshoe. We did have a 4.8 magnitude <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/earthquake-detector-vancouver-victoria-1.3385281">earthquake last night,</a> the first one that I remember since 2001. That inspired some shopping today to buy canned provisions. The bang was pretty frightening, but no one was hurt and no significant damage was recorded. I come back to my original idea that "we're very lucky" to live here, but no matter where one lives, making a plan for possible disaster is a good idea. Bill and I are working on it.<br />
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<span style="line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bill posed with Bev and Mary inside the </span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 20px;">"217.5 Arc X 13" </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 20px;">Bernar Venet sculpture. That title describes its mathematical composition.</span></div>
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Then Bill insisted it was my turn :) Black Jack is in my right arm, though she's a bit hard to see.<br />
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When we passed this lady with her grand-dog, I couldn't resist asking for a photo.<br />
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They were so clearly enjoying their day together.<br />
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One of our goals for the walk was to introduce Mary and Bev to the "A-maze-ing Laughter" sculpture by Yue Minjun. There are a total of 14 patinated cast-bronze figures, each weighing approximately 500 pounds. Mary walked among them, <br />
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and then she and Bev played the imitation game that has become a favourite of tourists and residents alike. We had a lot of fun laughing along with the sculptures. I only noticed the person behind Mary and Bev when I looked at the photos later. I think that's called photo-bombing. Bill and I quite enjoyed discovering her. I've come to love these sculptures more and more because it's so much fun to watch people respond to them.<br />
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That hand resting on Bill's shoulder is interesting from the side, <br />
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but takes on a whole different persona viewed from the front. Bill saw someone else doing that pose and knew he had to try it. In fact, he held the pose for a very long time. I think he would do well in my morning gym classes where we seem to do endless squats. :) <br />
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I thought this expression would sum up my feeling for the day, but we smiled..<br />
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even more broadly when Mary agreed to pose in the Harrison Gallery Buzz Café with her new hat. As I was taking the photo, Bill had the idea to..<br />
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show off the hat's versatility. I love Mary's expression here, as she wonders what Bill is doing.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then, she totally gives in to the moment. </span><br />
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And talk about photo-bombing. Bill and I laughed even more this evening when..<br />
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we noticed the young girl at the table in the background. If you go from photo..<br />
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to photo, you can watch her expression change. I'm not sure if she was irritated, or perhaps, fascinated, or possibly just curious, as she tried to figure out what could possibly be making these (mature) people have so much fun. <br />
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On the way back to Mary's car, we passed a little wedding party on Homer Street. Though Bill and I have passed that restaurant many times, we have never been in it. I think it is called <a href="http://www.brixandmortar.ca/">Brix & Mortar.</a> The bride must have been quite cold by the time she finally walked through the velvet curtains. I hope she and her new husband will laugh a lot in their future life together. <br />
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Special thanks to Mary and Bev for sharing the day with us. Thanks as well to you for stopping by, and to Stewart for hosting <a href="http://paying-ready-attention-gallery.blogspot.ca/2015/12/wild-bird-wednesday-179-2015-highlights.html">Wild Bird Wednesday</a>. His meme is well worth a visit as it will take you to amazing birds all around the globe.</div>
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-55208444456952141102015-12-29T23:36:00.002-08:002015-12-31T02:55:07.912-08:00The plan<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I haven't made a New Year's resolution for years and do not plan to make one this year. I did make a "decision" today and admit it entered my mind suspiciously close to 2016, but that's purely coincidence. Bill and Black Jack are supportive of the plan. Bill told me so and even added suggestions to help me stick to it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Black Jack didn't comment but she always supports Bill, even when he places..</span></div>
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her new hat (so she won't shiver on the bicycle) ever so carefully under her collar.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, you ask, "What's the plan?" Well, it has 2-steps: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1. One hour to write a blog post in the evenings. When the hour is up, the post will be published, no matter what has been written.</span></div>
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2. One hour to read other bloggers' posts and leave comments in the morning. No more feeling guilty about the many much appreciated comments that have received no response.</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So here goes! I've already used up 25 minutes so this will have to be quick. Today, Lan, a former student, took the ferry from Nanaimo to spend the day in Vancouver. In the morning, we explored this antique shop. It's called Salmagundi. Here, she explores these drawers that make you feel as though you are being just a bit naughty when you open them, but they are put there for that very purpose. </span><br />
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There's quite a range of treasures in those drawers. <br />
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One never knows what one will find at Salmagundi. This stagecoach was in a glass case. It was my 2nd visit to Salmagundi (Lan's 1st), but I completely..<br />
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missed seeing the stagecoach and driver last time.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lan discovered a collection of old maps and loved showing me this one of Paris. She spent four and a half months studying in Paris and she loved the city and countryside around it very, very much.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">She also discovered this diary. Anyone can write their secrets in it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Some of the confessions were naughty. That's why Lan's hand is covering the top portion of the left page. Some of the confessions were positively scary. But many of the secrets were heartwarming, like the one that says, "I found the woman I'm going to marry."</span><br />
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Lan and I walked from West Cordova Street up to the corner of Smythe and Homer, to enjoy a delicious lunch at the Buzz Café in Harrison Galleries. Bill met us there and Lan showed him the links (Coursera and EdX) to university courses she has been taking on line for free from some of the top universities in the world. She is also registered in a masters program at Vancouver Island University. You could say she is a very busy student.<br />
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Lan's home and family are in Vietnam. Since graduating from high school in Vancouver, she has done a lot of traveling and she now is proficient in four languages. She loves her homestay in Nanaimo and enjoyed showing me this painting that reminds her of the terrain around her temporary home.<br />
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After our lunch, we walked with Lan to Zhape, the hair salon owned by another of my former students. Both Elvis and Lan studied at Bodwell (where I taught), though they never met as they were there at different times. Elvis did a beautiful job cutting Lan's hair. My photo fails to show the subtleties of his work. This is one cut you really have to see in person to fully appreciate. <br />
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After the haircut, Lan, Bill and I walked to a tree that Bill and I call "our" tree. Lan took our picture there. It's a bit hard to see us, but I love the photo. You can see the Granville Bridge in the background.<br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We ate supper together and then left Lan to do a little shopping before she caught the ferry back to Nanaimo. This was the view on Granville Street as we walked home.</span><br />
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There's so much more that I wanted to say, but my time is up for today. I feel honoured when former students spend time with me. That is one of the great rewards of teaching. Today was a beautiful day.</div>
Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5731660835554890553.post-78971114101635617642015-12-11T14:00:00.000-08:002015-12-11T18:51:28.011-08:00Dancing in the Rain and Brookifying the Dash <div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">A long silence, I know. This post has taken quite a few weeks to write. Since October 24th, when we attended Brooke Malakoff's Celebration of Life, I've been trying to write about my response to that day and to childhood cancer. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">It HAD to be written but no matter how I rearranged the words, they weren't "right" and they weren't enough. The blog waited, frozen. Today, I finally acknowledge there never will be a perfect way to express the impact of meeting the young people I describe below, but I will try, regardless.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">I am going to share this post with the meme <span style="color: #cc0000; font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://writingsofmaria.com/"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Orange You Glad It's Friday</span></a> </span>(thank you so much, Maria), since it does happen to be Friday today, and there is more than a little orange scattered throughout the post. However, for this week only, I am going to think of it as: <b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Orange You Glad It's ANY Day!</span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">Some of you might immediately know who we were thinking of as Bill "danced in the rain" a couple of weeks ago on a very rainy November day. </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-soNxVgGOUVA/Vl4B_WG_tJI/AAAAAAABAP0/BMRJW_VAW28/s1600/DSC_8836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-soNxVgGOUVA/Vl4B_WG_tJI/AAAAAAABAP0/BMRJW_VAW28/s640/DSC_8836.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We had never done that before. We discovered even the literal translation of the words requires a bit more effort than we had anticipated. The truth is that there's quite a difference in perception, depending on the temperature of the rain, whether you are really dressed for it, and whether or not your dog happens to be especially miserable in it. Never mind whether, as in my case, your arthritic joints would have preferred a little warm-up, rain or no rain :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2mkAmOBV2Yk/VmSlAftcRrI/AAAAAAABAQo/g3gsmcsCV9w/s1600/DSC_8849.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2mkAmOBV2Yk/VmSlAftcRrI/AAAAAAABAQo/g3gsmcsCV9w/s640/DSC_8849.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"Dancing in the Rain" was a concept first introduced to me by the family of <a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/young-girl-with-deadly-glioblastoma-cancer-has-dancing-the-rain-wish-list"><b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Lilee-Jean Putt</span></b></a> </span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">(Dec. 5th, 2010 - Sept. 6th, 2013) </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">though the original quote is attributed to <a href="http://viviangreene.com/">Vivian Greene</a>. </span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aJTPPezlCcM/Vju72o5dKKI/AAAAAAABAMM/ZkenwcMPPBE/s1600/DSC_6709.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="596" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aJTPPezlCcM/Vju72o5dKKI/AAAAAAABAMM/ZkenwcMPPBE/s640/DSC_6709.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass.. it's about learning to dance in the rain." For me, those words will forever be associated with the way Lilee-Jean's parents chose to pack all of the love and laughter and happy memories they could into their daughter's short life. And, talk about facing the most difficult conditions imaginable, when a beloved child is terminally ill. I wanted to take that lesson from this beautiful family and apply it to my own life. It comforted me that something of Lille-Jean would be preserved and passed on. Even Black Jack, who hates the rain, could be encouraged to find some pleasure in it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BOmUAHoECSw/VmSgiC1cXgI/AAAAAAABAQc/8HqOqLjkENo/s1600/DSC_8859.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BOmUAHoECSw/VmSgiC1cXgI/AAAAAAABAQc/8HqOqLjkENo/s640/DSC_8859.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And, I hoped by writing this post to offer some sort of comfort to families that have lost loved ones. I wanted them to know that their kids' spirits have reached distances they surely could never have anticipated. But, even as I write that, these words from a woman who lost her beloved son hit home this morning. Her comment on the passing of Seanny (just a few short weeks ago), </span><br />
<a href="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSkVJtd18iazCgtNTBBS-AifocdPin32YU6E5Utp4wLvXV0m9XEWQ" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Image result for sean, cancer, legoland" border="0" class="rg_i" data-src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSkVJtd18iazCgtNTBBS-AifocdPin32YU6E5Utp4wLvXV0m9XEWQ" data-sz="f" height="425" jsaction="load:str.tbn" name="5P4Zr8CyErQuVM:" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSkVJtd18iazCgtNTBBS-AifocdPin32YU6E5Utp4wLvXV0m9XEWQ" style="height: 176px; margin-top: -2px; width: 265px;" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">yet another child caught in cancer's cruel grip and now forever ensconced in my heart, echoed a view that keeps creeping into my thoughts, no matter how much I try to oust it: </span><span style="color: blue;">"I wish we could learn to appreciate the value of life, without our children having to be the ones to teach the world that." </span><span style="color: blue;">Seanny is shown at the right. You can read more about him <a href="http://globalnews.ca/news/2319465/vancouver-boy-with-terminal-cancer-dreams-of-going-to-legoland/"><b>here</b></a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">I echo that lady's thoughts for sure, but I will all the more fiercely live my life by the lessons taught by those kids, not to waste a moment of their precious lives. Who would have a</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">nticipated that strolling through Granville Island in August, 2012 would take me to the world of childhood cancer, one I didn't want to recognize but couldn't ignore. It all started with a young busker's beautiful singing voice. I had begun to observe and appreciate my world more closely a few years earlier, after meeting</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"> Bill in 2007, starting a blog and delving into photography with his encouragement. Then, when he became seriously ill, the lesson to appreciate every good moment was intensified. But, as most of us will know, it takes continual reminders to form life habits, and Lilee's example was followed by that of </span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">Brooke Ashley Malakoff (November 27,
1994 - October 17, 2015).</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qd4MsgekhaA/Vju6Fpu4bjI/AAAAAAABALw/YORAKd3uDj0/s1600/DSC_7250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qd4MsgekhaA/Vju6Fpu4bjI/AAAAAAABALw/YORAKd3uDj0/s640/DSC_7250.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif;">I could write for days about how tragic it is that </span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">Brooke and Lilee-Jean and Seanny are no longer with us, but I'm guessing they would think that quite a waste of precious time. They'd probably tell me to "dance in the rain" or "live my dash" instead of wasting anger on something that, at least until we figure out how to clean up our world and/or have a research break-through, will continue to take a high toll on living beings. So, I'd like instead to celebrate those young lives and their continued influence on mine. See that orange hat? Well, Bill suggested I try it on. We were at <a href="https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/home/storelocator/storeDetails/789/">Chapters-Indigo Book Store</a> at the corner of Granville and Broadway on a day that might have made us grumpy. A noisy fire alarm testing process </span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">in our building </span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">terrified Black Jack and made it necessary to stay out of the building for most of the day. We needed to find some way to pass the hours outdoors while still finding a few warm, dog-friendly places to rest from time to time. Book stores are not what they used to be. Mugs, CD's, clothing.. just about every product you could imagine, including that orange hat, were on display alongside the books. Black Jack was warmly welcomed and there were cozy reading corners set up that encouraged people to settle in for a nice read, so we selected Chris Hadfield's <a href="https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/an-astronauts-guide-to-life/9780345812711-item.html?ikwid=Chris+hadfield&ikwsec=Home&ikwidx=1"><b>An Astronaut's guide to Life on Earth</b></a> and spent a most enjoyable half hour reading aloud to each other. We liked the book so much, we ordered a copy for our Kindle, and finished it during our evening read-aloud-to-each-other times. And yes, I tried on the hat, eliciting laughter and the realization that a day we had been dreading was actually now a happy adventure. </span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oakcNWFC1oo/Vi54OUQ-X4I/AAAAAAAA_zA/023zlP5XiAo/s1600/DSC_1213.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oakcNWFC1oo/Vi54OUQ-X4I/AAAAAAAA_zA/023zlP5XiAo/s640/DSC_1213.JPG" width="640" /></a> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Looking at that hat now reminds me of these captures of Lilee-Jean. She surely knew how to appreciate a happy hat and an opportunity to laugh. As you can see, I still have more to learn from her to really get that laughter right :)</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pNBPc8vzNk0/Vi_YU3-QCuI/AAAAAAABAHw/_6FoqFea2eM/s1600/550580_392635280772015_1354389981_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pNBPc8vzNk0/Vi_YU3-QCuI/AAAAAAABAHw/_6FoqFea2eM/s640/550580_392635280772015_1354389981_n.jpg" width="640" /></a> </span>For those closest to Brooke and Lily, the ones who can barely breathe
in a world without their physical presence, I worry about the hypocrisy of claiming to have learned from them. In fact, I was only in Lily's presence once, Seanny's once (while he was sleeping) and Brooke's twice. But, perhaps that will give you some idea of the strength of their personalities and message. And, full disclosure. Although I vow never to have a negative thought again, they do still creep into my head space sometimes, and there are still days when the weather is a little <b>too </b>cold or <b>too </b>rainy and I find myself whining inwardly. But those negative thoughts are banished more and more quickly, and when I'm tempted to whine about the weather, I remember how lucky I am to be able to be out and about in <b>any </b>weather. Sometimes, I think even their loved ones may not fully understand
the vast distance these children's spirits continue to travel. They
make their way across continents and across time, passing from one
generation to the next, even via people like me, who could never claim to have known them. I fully believe those spirits are making, and will continue to make, the world a better place. I think of Brooke and Lilee-Jean and Seanny whenever a small moment makes me happy, because that is a part of what I learned from them - to appreciate the small stuff. I think of them when I see a rainbow (though for me, rainbows are big stuff), as I did on October 10th, four days before Brooke was admitted to hospital for the last time. It was hard to believe her treatment had been palliative for about a year; she drew smiles and laughter from those around her wherever she went and whatever she did. </span></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KkIZqpJ7Ijw/ViqYW7_dsgI/AAAAAAAA_nQ/_xou7gXpTTA/s1600/DSC_3728.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KkIZqpJ7Ijw/ViqYW7_dsgI/AAAAAAAA_nQ/_xou7gXpTTA/s640/DSC_3728.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Perhaps you've heard of <b>The Dash</b>, a poem by Linda Ellis. I hadn't.</span></span></span> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Its message inspired Brooke and so she shared it with her friend, Carmen, who shared it on Facebook. It was printed on Brooke's "Celebration of Life" program as shown below.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fwWDz2BuhSw/Vju6L9AFWBI/AAAAAAABAL4/DFHMuW4-nLo/s1600/DSC_7254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fwWDz2BuhSw/Vju6L9AFWBI/AAAAAAABAL4/DFHMuW4-nLo/s640/DSC_7254.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">I caught snapshots of
Brooke twice when she emceed the BC "Gold Ribbon" Childhood Cancer awareness events in <b><a href="http://bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/search?q=childhood+cancer">September 2014</a></b> and <b><a href="http://bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/search?q=childhood+cancer&updated-max=2014-09-21T11:32:00-07:00&max-results=20&start=1&by-date=false">September 2015</a></b>. In the picture below, taken less than a month
before she died, Brooke (in the blue jacket) hugged her dear friends and fellow oncology patients, Carmen and Danielle, after they sang a great rendition of "</span><b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4UqfrH74wc0"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">Fight Song</span></a></b><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">" by
Rachel Platton. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ovuboElMnVc/VjMATv0WoJI/AAAAAAABAIU/_wSm9ohMgxI/s1600/DSC_0589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ovuboElMnVc/VjMATv0WoJI/AAAAAAABAIU/_wSm9ohMgxI/s640/DSC_0589.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Carmen<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">not only sings but</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">also composes</span>. <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She</span></span></span> wrote <a href="https://www.facebook.com/carmen.steinbach/videos/867865929987565/?pnref=story"><b>this
song</b></a> for Broo<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ke and</span>
posted it on Facebook with these words: <span style="color: blue;">"For my angel Brooke, i wrote you a short little song because
it was really hard to find the words and music to express how truly beautiful
you were but I know you are at peace now. Thank you for teaching me so much,
and never failing to be the best sidekick of all time."</span> It's
a beautiful song. Here's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/carmen.steinbach/videos/867865929987565/?pnref=story"><b>the link one more time</b></a>. I've listened to it many times. I love it. It reaches my heart over and over, reminding me of the terrible loss of potential when children die, and of the pain inflicted when cancer survivors witness the death of friends met during their illness. And yes. It reminds me to "live my dash" while I can.</span></span></span></div>
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</span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FvXfLHqulTA/Vje6eU55-qI/AAAAAAABAKE/3mipJw1bDtI/s1600/DSC_0590_2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FvXfLHqulTA/Vje6eU55-qI/AAAAAAABAKE/3mipJw1bDtI/s640/DSC_0590_2.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">I don't know who took the photos printed in Brooke's "Celebration of Life" program but the photographer did a wonderful job of capturing the sparkle in her eyes and the sheer joy in her smile.</span></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x8HX6i7bQ9s/Vje2NQcg7zI/AAAAAAABAJ4/I89rMF36MNM/s1600/DSC_6029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="458" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x8HX6i7bQ9s/Vje2NQcg7zI/AAAAAAABAJ4/I89rMF36MNM/s640/DSC_6029.JPG" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">It was </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><a href="http://bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/search?q=lilee-jean+putt" style="font-weight: bold;">Lilee-Jean</a><b> </b>who led me to Brooke</span></span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">. Remember the beautiful voice I mentioned at the beginning of the post? Well, it belonged to Lilee's father, Andrew, and I followed it </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">like a child lured by the Pied Piper</span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">, though I was some distance away. In fact, I was ready to board the aquabus for home, but couldn't draw myself away from the music. When I found him, I sat on a bench for a while, soaking up the gentle lyrics, sweet melodies and velvety-textured voice. Later, hoping to find more of his singing on
line, I learned instead of the battle he and Lilee's mother, Chelsea, were waging for their daughter. I began to read Chelsea's blog and finally attended
a picnic given by Lilee's family to offer followers a chance to meet her.
Her grandmother, Mary, was there and we became friends. I learned that
Mary doesn't take friendship lightly. We lived an hour's drive apart and
Bill, recovering from his own cancer treatments, no longer had a vehicle!
Mary took it upon herself to contact me whenever she could. She traveled
to Vancouver often, usually to visit and comfort children and parents met during Lilee-Jean's treatments. Sometimes, she was able
to meet for coffee and a chat and little by little, we came to know each
other better. However, when she invited me to my first childhood cancer
awareness event, I didn't jump at the opportunity. It seemed too sad
to learn about more kids facing such a horrible disease. No, I wasn't keen,
but it was an opportunity to spend some time with Mary, so Bill and I
went. And yes, I found it sad, but I also witnessed a camaraderie and playfulness that was unexpected. An already cruel disease was sentence enough; these kids and their families were not about to let cancer also steal their ability to laugh and love. It was great to spend time with Mary..</span></span></span></div>
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reality, but also showing us that they weren't defined by their illness.
There was such a sense of their concern and love for each other, and a sense, too, of how much fun they found in each other. Brooke is just right of
center, wearing the gold-colored t-shirt. We heard from her and also from her mother, each telling their story with honesty and courage.</span>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">At that event, I
realized that Brooke had the kind of empathy and supportive nature that made
all the kids around her comfortable and happy to share the stage with
her. It took until the following year before I fully absorbed the
knowledge that childhood cancer is very different from adult cancer. I
posted about that </span><a href="http://bikesbirdsnbeasts.blogspot.ca/2015/09/lighting-up-gold-to-raise-awareness-for.html"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">here</span></b></a><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">. I believe there are small ways that each of us can make a difference to improve the odds for kids fighting cancer, and many of those ways have the potential to help cancer-afflicted adults as well. Looking into our own hearts to see how we can help is probably best, since individual strengths and concerns motivate each of us in very different ways. My personal focus comes down to two main points:</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">1. Lessen pollution (almost always have my own cup with me, ride my bike, use public transport or walk most places, eat vegan, avoid plastic shopping bags). Plastic is a particular horror. I quote from <span style="color: red;"><b><a href="http://ecowatch.com/2014/04/07/22-facts-plastic-pollution-10-things-can-do-about-it/">this site</a></b></span>: "</span></span></span><a href="http://ecowatch.com/2013/10/28/study-shows-plastic-microbeads-facial-scrubs-pollute-great-lakes/" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 25.2px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Tiny plastic beads</span></b></a><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 25.2px;"> used in hundreds of toiletries like facial scrubs and toothpastes </span><a href="http://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/pressroom/newsreleases/2013/april/polluting-plastic-particles-invade-the-great-lakes.html" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; box-sizing: border-box; color: blue; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 25.2px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; transition: color 0.2s linear initial;" target="_blank">have even been found in our Great Lakes</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 25.2px;"><span style="color: blue;">—the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world! </span><span style="color: #38761d;"><a href="http://www.adventurescience.org/microplastics.html?gclid=CjwKEAiAhaqzBRDNltaS0pW5mWgSJADd7cYDKKdGVK-3acoCg7MYRBBYAm3owdylWRPV5fNkzAqO9RoCDXzw_wcB"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">Giant garbage patches</span></b></a> </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 25.2px;">(one TWICE the size of TEXAS) can be found floating around in the oceans." </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 18px; line-height: 25.2px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am convinced that elements from plastic get into our food chain and cause some of the mysterious cancers </span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 25.2px;">afflicting vulnerable babies and children </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 18px; line-height: 25.2px;">(the ones that cannot be attributed to lifestyle choices like smoking and eating processed foods).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">2. <a href="http://donate.bccancerfoundation.com/site/TR/Events/Fuse?pxfid=20372&fr_id=1250&pg=fund&__utma=1.787603691.1445016512.1445224772.1445644460.5&__utmb=1.5.10.1445644460&__utmc=1&__utmx=-&__utmz=1.1445644460.5.2.utmcsr%3Dgoogle%7Cutmccn%3D%28organic%29%7Cutmcmd%3Dorganic%7Cutmctr%3D%28not+provided%29&__utmv=-&__utmk=166654142"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Make a donation earmarked to help Dr. Paul Sorensen</b></span></a>, a Vancouver doctor, continue his research. T</span></span></span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">his year, our Xmas shopping, except for the children on our list, will go to that cause, as I've learned that h</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">e may be on the brink of a discovery that could give kids with Sarcoma a better chance of survival. I know about him because of a little girl named Greta. "</span></span></span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "avenirltstd45book" , "arial"; letter-spacing: 0.28px; line-height: 20px;">Greta was 5 years old when she was diagnosed with an aggressive bone cancer in her spine, Ewing's Sarcoma. She is now 6 years old and still battling hard, while trying to enjoy the world as a little girl.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "avenirltstd45book" , "arial"; letter-spacing: 0.28px; line-height: 20px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "avenirltstd45book" , "arial"; letter-spacing: 0.28px; line-height: 20px;">Childhood bone cancers have some of the lowest rates of survival, especially when present in the spine."</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "avenirltstd45book" , "arial"; letter-spacing: 0.28px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #424242;"> That quote is from </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/gretasteam/"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>her mother's facebook page</b></span></a><span style="color: #424242;">. I promise if you spend a little time there, you will never forget her or her family.</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #424242; font-family: "avenirltstd45book" , "arial"; letter-spacing: 0.28px; line-height: 20px;"> </span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lilee-Jean's mom<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">has started a new blog called</span> <a href="http://thechelseydiaries.com/blog/"><b>The
Chelsea Diaries</b></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It describes</span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">a life forever changed</span> after losing <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">a</span> child<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> and one might think that <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">would make it <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">unbearably</span> depressing, but rather, <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">one begins to see in Chelsea's strength<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">honesty and humou<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">r <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">a part of the source of these same qualities in</span> Lilee-Jean.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The blog is </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">a <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">powerful</span> read <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">for anyone,<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span>but resonates <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">with particular meaning for </span>those struggling to get along in a world</span></span> both cruel and beautiful by turns</span>. <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The <a href="http://thechelseydiaries.com/2015/12/01/im-sorry-i-am-so-so-sorry/">most recent post</a> allows us to see and feel inside her head. It's raw<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and it's ugly, and it is <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">heartbreakingly beautiful. <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">E</span>ven as she says: <span style="color: blue;">"</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am sorry you won't respond to this and tell me I’m inspiring because there is nothing inspiring about this</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.."<span style="color: black;">and </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">continues with:</span> "</span>..</span>my positivity tank is empty, my well of sunshine and rainbows is dry, my
dancing in the rain legs are tired and my mama-without-a-child’s heart
is broken..<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"</span> </span>words follow close behind that attest to her determination to carry on: </span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"But then… like I always do, I’ll spend hours, days, weeks, and I will
gather up those pieces and haphazardly stick them back together until
I’ve assembled something that resembles a heart. I’ll fill up that tank,
I’ll dig a new well, and I’ll shake out those legs. Because she’d want
me to.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span>" </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyeJSlX3-pk/Vk1DiDy58WI/AAAAAAABAM8/RQDq4QTGRyU/s1600/1175360_558622897506585_1486145192_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyeJSlX3-pk/Vk1DiDy58WI/AAAAAAABAM8/RQDq4QTGRyU/s640/1175360_558622897506585_1486145192_n.jpg" width="426" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lilee's
dad continues to sing;<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span>you can hear him perform quite a few songs, including one
of my favorites, "Hallelujah" <a href="http://www.andrewchristophermusic.com/music-horizon/"><b>at
this link</b></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">He d<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">oes a great version of</span></span> a Bare Naked Ladies song called "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLAh0sNkL6Q">One Week</a>" with <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Big Shiny</u>, his new band<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> and h</span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">e</span> has also recently started <a href="http://www.andrewchristophermusic.com/new-blog/2015/9/24/yybv94kvz391iz2h9tkewbn5ohbs3e#comments-56047aa0e4b07f7a3e29b420="><b>his
own blog</b></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, </span>one that is already rich with musical as well as psychological insight. <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The picture above of Lilee with Chelsea, and the one <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">below of her with Andrew, were taken during <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">a "Christmas in August" celebration. Everyone wanted to make as many happy memories for Lily<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> and her fami<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ly as they could, and they knew at this point <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">t<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">hat she would be unlikely to live until December. In fact<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, she die<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">d just a couple of weeks after these photos. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NZJK8tGeVSg/Vk1mDuoN5XI/AAAAAAABANU/qMe40nxZjys/s1600/1234171_10153223355760078_1574150674_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NZJK8tGeVSg/Vk1mDuoN5XI/AAAAAAABANU/qMe40nxZjys/s640/1234171_10153223355760078_1574150674_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The pain is <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">still acute</span>, but two years after </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lilee's death, <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">her loved ones</span> are
slowly finding a way to live without her physical presence though they are
never far from her spiritual one. </span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QHAEATR2bYM/VjkejFnOznI/AAAAAAABAK4/YYKZ4Xg_rpc/s1600/150426_490652804303595_750520378_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QHAEATR2bYM/VjkejFnOznI/AAAAAAABAK4/YYKZ4Xg_rpc/s640/150426_490652804303595_750520378_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">D</span>uring
the time <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lilee-Jean</span> was here, she smiled and giggled and danced and laughed and <b>lived</b> more than many of us do in a full
lifespan. </span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Her</span> hometown hockey team even trucked in snow <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">for that <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Christmas</span> in August</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> celebration. If that isn't dancing in the rain, <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I</span> don't know what is! </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">In the video below,
filmed about five months before she died, Brooke explains the difference
between a "<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">living</b> list"
and a bucket list" as she describes her <b>life </b>philosophy. It was a revelation to me when she said, "Why not me? I mean, I'm strong enough. I can take it.." ..those words in
answer to the "Why me?" question most of us ask when hit with a
horrible crisis. Where could that maturity and generosity of spirit have come
from? The </span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">three and a half minutes it took to watch that video passed by so quickly, but I believe their influence will carry on throughout my lifetime and beyond. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There's Bill reading the program as we arrive at Brooke's Celebration of Life. Mary (Lilee's g<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">randma) </span>is <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">at the right, re<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">cording</span> a favou<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">rite B<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">rooke story to place</span></span></span> in the Memory Jar. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We took the Sky Train to Surrey where Mary picked us up and drove us to Langley for th<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">e</span> service. That Mary took time out of her busy life to make sure we could attend the <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">celebration really touc<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">hed me. I snapped a few photos as we drove.<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Brooke's favourite colours were orange and yellow. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She was also a <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">huge Canucks (NHL) fan and her mother also realized as she looked through photos of her that she loved plaids. </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The orangey/yellow </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pattullo Bridge between Surrey and Langley called out Brooke's name for sure.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I had never seen the BC Lions football team's club house before, and sure enough, its colours were also calling out Brooke's name. One speaker at Brooke's celebration of life was a young man whose words will stay in my memory forever. He was a longtime friend of Brooke's and had recently gone to a BC Lions game with her. While his focus had been on the game, hers had been on the players, and let's just say it wasn't their athletic skills that had her most entranced :) What I loved most was that she voiced her fascination (and glee) to him, fully embracing a moment of great fun with a true friend. When he quoted her at the service, everyone's tears turned to laughter, even those of her parents. I knew Brooke would have loved and celebrated her friend at that moment.</span><br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ShmBPKeq1Go/VlIrA2xsJTI/AAAAAAABAOM/Z_HajyuRR0o/s1600/DSC_5863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ShmBPKeq1Go/VlIrA2xsJTI/AAAAAAABAOM/Z_HajyuRR0o/s640/DSC_5863.JPG" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span font-family:="" sans-serif="" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , "sans style span style";">One speaker at the
celebration spoke of his new job as a principal of a high
school. I'm not sure if he had been one of Brooke's teachers or whether he was perhaps a family friend, but, like many others, he recognized
that her example could change lives. His goal as a new principal was to
somehow "Brookify" his school. Talk about a far reaching
impact! The kids at that school would "slow down enough to consider what's true and real, and always try to understand how other people feel. And be less quick to anger and show appreciation more.." Imagine growing up with those attitudes and passing them on! That "Brookify" thought stuck close that evening as we made our way home and the Sky Train malfunctioned. The 45-minute trip became more like 3 hours, and we became quite worried for our little dog waiting at home, not to mention that we felt quite lost in Vancouver's transit system. What saved me, I believe, is that I kept asking myself, "How would Brooke have handled this?" I realized quickly that she would have made a couple of friends along the way and she would have found a way to laugh. We talked to at least three people that evening who did their best to help us, and we laughed more than a few times. Thank you, dear Brooke!</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">Brooke started a blog in 2013, two years after
being diagnosed. This is </span><b><a href="http://bamalakoff.blogspot.ca/2013/09/when-it-all-began.html"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">her first post</span></a></b><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"> dated October 4th, 2013. Her <b><a href="http://bamalakoff.blogspot.ca/2015_07_05_archive.html">last post</a></b> was published on July 6th,
2015. She kept the blog up for two and a half years, writing a total of
27 posts. Not all that many, really, until you consider the wealth of
understanding wrapped up in her eloquent words. I love the photograph
below, displayed at her celebration of life. What you don't realize in
admiring the wonderful smile on Brooke's face was that her hair had begun to
fall out on the very day of her high school graduation. She describes in </span><b><a href="http://bamalakoff.blogspot.ca/2013/10/the-worst-part-is-losing-your-hair.html"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">this post</span></a></b><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"> how </span><a href="http://68photography.com/"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">6:8 Photography</span></a></span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">'s Kevan Wilkie and Duane Clemens managed to get
a photoshoot together while she still had some hair left. They rounded up
make-up artists and hair-stylists, and in her own words, </span></span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">by the time the shoot was complete, </span></span><span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">she "had never felt so
pretty in [her] entire life." Pretty is the understatement of the
year. Brooke was a beauty, inside and out!</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The legacy of these kids is such a powerful one, I can't see a beautiful sky without also recognizing how quickly and how far their messages have traveled. </span></span> </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XqhGJ_HY8Zs/ViqYWpgPskI/AAAAAAAA_nM/YiF7DMUiXh4/s1600/DSC_3601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XqhGJ_HY8Zs/ViqYWpgPskI/AAAAAAAA_nM/YiF7DMUiXh4/s640/DSC_3601.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At Broo<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ke's</span></span> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">celebration of life, </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Canuck<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">s <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">jerseys</span>, </span></span>plaids, oranges and yellows <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">were everywhere<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, and ever since that day, it seems that wherever I go, </span></span></span></span> </span><br /><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">oranges an<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">d yellows call to me</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q95TheqkF0k/Vi5yMFWFLGI/AAAAAAAA_ys/YtOSUTjMgo4/s1600/DSC_5942.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q95TheqkF0k/Vi5yMFWFLGI/AAAAAAAA_ys/YtOSUTjMgo4/s640/DSC_5942.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In looking back through <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">photos to find the one of the orange hat, I also came across other memories of that day as we wan<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">dered about </span></span></span>town waiting fo<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">r the fire alarm testing to end. We walked by several art galleries on Granville Street that we had never really noticed before. </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I took these photos through the window</span></span></span> of <a href="http://www.kurbatoffgallery.com/index.htm"><b>Kurbatoff </b></a></span><a href="http://www.kurbatoffgallery.com/index.htm"><b>Gallery</b></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. This <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">painting by <a href="http://gerdamarschall.com/"><b>Gerda Marschall</b></a></span>, so full of color and enthusiasm for life, brings Brooke and Lily and Seanny and childhood to mind.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The day these oranges appeared along False Creek, I was quite sure we had never, ever<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> seen oranges grow<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ing <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">there before. Perhaps, they were just waiting for my eyes to wake up and see what had been there all along. </span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The day Brooke died, Bill and I had met up with a former student from my high school teaching days. Her name is Lan and though I hadn't seen her in seven years, it felt as though it had been just yesterday since she graduated and began to travel the world to further her education. She still had the kindest of hearts and she still saw and appreciated the smallest of pleasures that many would miss. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The performance was by a group called <b><a href="http://gravityandothermyths.com.au/a-simple-space/">A Simple Space, Gravity and Other Myths</a></b>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We had amazing seats right on stage, so that the performers actually made eye contact with us. Apart from the unbelievable talent of these <span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">athletes</span>, there was that special "magic" ..</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">that comes when people genuinely care about the people around them.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This young girl must have felt so cherished as she landed safely in the arms of her trusted fellow performers. I saw love in all three faces and find comfort in imagining kids gone too soon, cradled similarly, as they passed from one world to the next by the deep love of their parents and other family members. </span></div>
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Their dashes weren't even close to what I would have wished for them, but they lived them to the maximum. Their inner light glowed as brightly as this flower. If I can live just the tiniest portion of my dash with such impact, I will consider my life one well lived. Thank you ever so much for stopping by, especially after all this time, to allow me to share my thoughts.</div>
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Black Jack's Carolhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436115876996209227noreply@blogger.com16