Late night visitor
I consider myself a cat person, really I do. That is, unless that cat happens to be in a tree, outside my bedroom window, and making the god-awful sounds it makes when it’s mad and I’m trying to sleep at quarter to two in the morning. Then not so much. That sound is incredibly eerie and I’m only glad I woke up before the cat began making its maddening cries. I got up to shout at it and scare it away, but stopped because there wasn’t just a cat outside.
There was a deer.
The cat was hissing and spitting at a deer. Just one, then two more appear once the cat jumped down from the tree and sped off into the night. Good. At least it won’t be making noises outside my window.
I managed to get a few snaps of the deer. Now mind you, this is late at night, I don’t have proper equipment to take nature photos, but I still wanted to take a few pictures.
Crossing the road to nibble on some grass. And most likely because I startled them in order to get a photo or two.
Standing cautiously on the other side of the street.
Continuing on their way.
It’s raining, it’s pouring
Over the past week, that’s been the case in this area of the world. Constant rain, not overly heavy, but just enough to make things wet and miserable. The sun is out today, which makes for a more pleasant situation.
The unusual weather continues around this neck of the woods. The past few days there’s been rain and slightly cooler temperatures, but nothing completely off. A look at the national map from Environment Canada shows that across the country the temperatures vary from east to west, with Ontario and Quebec getting up to the mid teens and low twenties (that’s in Celsius). But it’s one temperature in particular that worries me, as might be seen on this map.
While Whitehorse, Yukon is sitting at 1 Degree Celsius, it happens to be Prince George that is the one spot to have the negative temperature, sitting at -1Degree Celsius. Fortunately, a look at the local forecast here in Outlook shows that we are looking for some nice weather over the next three days, which is good for the Thanksgiving Day long weekend. I must admit, however, by Friday that temperature of 10 Celsius for a high and 0 Celsius for an overnight low does give me pause. I’m still hoping that this warmer weather does continue on into November, however.
Stands to reason, though, that we’d go from temperatures of around 30 degrees Celsius to ones closer to 10 to 15 Celsius. This is the usual cycle here in Saskatchewan.
Autumn turns
I realized that a very important event passed without my notice. Autumn came and went last week. I call it important, because the moving of the seasons is just like turning the pages of a book. Except, last week’s change of season really didn’t feel like a change of season at all. The air was much more like summer than autumn, and the trees themselves are still green, the grass is lush. The Farmer’s Almanac is actually predicting we could be in for an Indian Summer as well. So, to usher in this passing day, some random things about autumn.
First, some poetry for thought:
Off to School
Fall comes again – a little lad
Goes trotting off to school,
To learn to count, and read and write,
And keep the Golden Rule.
Oh, teachers, in your hands is placed
A wondrous trust devine
Please help and guide this fresh young mind,
To climb the heights sublime.
A nation’s leader he may be -
A statesman, true and bold.
To fight the evil, vaunt the good,
He needs a heart of gold
Sometimes the tiny little tikes
Have talents unsurpassed;
To bring them out, and watch them grow
Is now your sacred task.
Author Unknown
Reprinted from Games and Readings by Marie Wankel
On this morning, it did start to feel a bit more like fall. Though, the air was still warm, it had the look of fall.
Pink sunrise. Fifteen minutes after this was taken, the colour of the sky turned grey.
Leaves are turning colour. It looks like fall, but the air still feels warm like summer.
Orange, yellow and red leaves cover the ground. The grass is still green.
The last vestiges of light
I awoke this morning at 5:00 am like I usually do, but this morning I awoke with a sudden realization. The darkness.
It was cloudy out, so that contributed to it. It had been raining when I got home and had been cloudy most of the day. Most mornings when it’s cloudy it’s at least a little light out as well. This, however, is September 1st, with only three weeks of summer left. We’ve had a pretty good run, with some very warm days.
The first indication that summer is slowly creeping away is the darkness. Summer always means, for me at least, very early sunrises. It makes it so much easier to crawl out of bed. Not so much during the darkness of winter.
There is one solace, though. Autumn has some of the most beautiful colours around here. There’s also a plus that this fall is predicted to be a warm one. Which we haven’t had in a while. The past few years it’s always gone from sort of warm during summer to crisp and cool into fall, then straight into extreme cold.
Maybe this year we can get gradual cold with it never hitting extremity freezing temperatures.
I’ll miss the sun in the morning, but I’m safe in the knowledge that it won’t be gone forever. Just another few more months and we’ll be back into spring. There’s a lot to do between now and then after all.
In the summertime…
Two weeks of wonderful holiday is about to start.
It’s that time of year when we head out for our two week shut down. Instead of each person taking holidays here at the office, it’s easier to just shut down the printers for two weeks and be done with it. We actually tried each person having their own holidays, and it was kind of chaotic. And that was when we had six people working here. Now there’s just the three of us.
I plan on spending the time writing, drawing, relaxing by the river, and once my car has it’s tune up, heading into the city for Fringe Festival frivolities. Plus, buy more books.
So, this will sort of be a staycation in a way, I don’t plan on heading anywhere too far away. Not like two years ago when I drove down to Bloomington, Indiana.
In commemoration of this event to come, Mungo Jerry! Summertime!
It’s the end of the world as we know it
Heavy rains! Strong winds! Tornadoes! The world is coming to an end!
No, it’s actually just another typical summer in Saskatchewan.
After a few years of less than ideal conditions in the province, we’ve gone from cold and crappy summer months to hot, muggy, rainy, windy and every other adjective, adverb or other descriptive word that one could use to describe this summer so far. Some people like the latter, some like the former. I’m sort of in the middle. I can do without the humidity.
Last night with heavy rain and wind, and pitch black clouds, it was the second event and third event of the realization that we definitely are dependent on a lot of things.
A few weeks ago we had a telecommunications outage. No internet, no cellphone (or rather limited might be better) and no long distance or local calling, which also meant no faxing. We just had no phone service at all. It wasn’t just this building, where I work, it was the entire region. Bank ATM’s were down, which meant money withdrawls had to be done the old fashioned way. No business could accept credit cards or debit cards at all. Everything had to be cash. It was like there was suddenly no communication whatsoever. No, it was exactly like that. Like we were stuck in the 80′s. For real! I was waiting for a John Hughs movie to start up, something starring Molly Ringwald.
Last night, the other two things happened. The first was being informed that the apartment building’s water was being shut off for emergency due to a backed up sewer line. I didn’t have much choice, but instead I prepared for it. I hopped into my car, drove to work and filled two small pails of water. For washing, cleaning dishes and morning coffee. Yes, the pails were clean, I made certain of that. Needless to say, there wasn’t a whole lot of water for washing. At least I had enough to brush my teeth.
So there again was the amazing aspect of living without something we take for granted; running water. I am old enough that I do remember the days driving down to the municipal water station and for 25 cents filling a water tank on the back of our ’49 Chev half ton. I’m also old enough to remember 35 cents per litre for gas, and how shocked we were when it rose to 70 cents. Now it’s $1.23 per litre. But water, running water from the tap. That’s another thing that amazes me how much we depend on it. No water for washing dishes, none for taking a bath or a shower, no water for cooking, and no water for going to the bathroom and flushing the toilet.
The irony of all of that, came when the third event happened late last night. Around the time the sky turned black and the first thunder clap roared.
It was one of those storms where you just know the power is going to go down. You expect it, and if it doesn’t happen it’s a complete fluke. Last night stayed true to form, as I was working on my computer (fortunately I had saved along the way, because I had a strange feeling) and saw the lights, monitor and other appliances visibly or audibly flicker. For a brief second it was as though the power struggled to stay on, but it was only for a second.
And then darkness.
Power is that one thing that all the previous things are dependent on, and in turn, that we are dependent on. When the power goes down, the darkness can be quite unsettling, and the quiet can be deafening. Without power, there is no telecommunication of any kind. Nor is there any water, because power is needed to help water move through the water lines. But even more, power operates our entertainment centres, our street lights, our phone and laptop chargers, our refrigerators and freezers.
If the power goes down, then one can still read a book, or play card games (with real cards). But as it happened last night, it was black outside. I needed candles (of which all I had were the scented kind, really need to buy emergency candles) and I needed my flashlight. Once I had those, I could move through the apartment quite easily.
This morning I woke up, with power because it wasn’t out for too long last night, but without water. And the news telling me on the radio that there were several tornado warnings last night issued for Delisle and area, not far from me. We’re a month into summer. This is gonna be a wild season.
Until next time…
…keep ‘em flyin’!
Photostream
I had planned on posting this yesterday, but I got a bit busy. This is just a photo essay, really. different places around Lake Diefenbaker. Take a look, and enjoy.
TSN Coming to Outlook!
The Kraft Celebration Tour is going to be in Outlook, Saskatchewan tomorrow. Jay Onrait and Dan O’Toole will be in town to broadcast live. They’ll be in the Outlook & District Regional Park on the crossroad between the Outlook Swimming Pool and the Riverview Golf Course. Here’s what the Kraft Celebration Tour web site had to say about Outlook.
The swimming pool in Outlook has been in existence since after WWI. It was upgraded in 1989 making it a first class Jr. Olympic facility. It is ideally located in the Outlook Regional Park along the beautiful South Saskatchewan River. It is an asset to the community and the Regional Park drawing countless Campers from across the province and country. In 2005 this park was awarded Saskatchewan Regional Park of the Year. Park use has steadily increased. Camping sites are in demand. The picturesque 9-hole golf course adjacent to the park adds to the appeal. The pool is the jewel of the park. Swimming lessons are offered to all ages from late June until September. The pool is used extensively by the community for exercise and recreation. There is designated lane swimming every day of the week.
This program is well used by the public including several octogenarians! Aquasize classes and water polo clinics have been offered. The pool offers the opportunity for lifelong swimming for patrons from a radius of eighty kilometres. Grandparents have their grandchildren spend a week or two in Outlook over the summer to take advantage of the pool programs. Fun Days are organized promoting interest and activity at the pool. The pool has hosted the first leg of local triathlon races. From poolside one can see the “Skytrail”, Canada’s longest pedestrian bridge. This bridge was built in the early 1900’s and was decommissioned 20 years ago. With financial support and free labour provided by the community and the Canadian Army, the walking bridge was created. It is a source of pride for the community spurring a renewed interest in walking, running and a healthier lifestyle by people of all ages. This area was the site of the SHSAA Provincial Cross Country Championship two years ago hosted by our schools. High school sports are hotly contested throughout the school year as Outlook has not only a public High School but also a residential Historical High School, the Lutheran Collegiate Bible Institute. The entire community of Outlook has a passion for sports. The Jim Kook Memorial Sports Complex houses a modern skating rink, 4-sheet curling rink, bowling alley, gymnastics facility and archery range. Four softball diamonds and one baseball diamond and two beach volleyball courts surround this facility. A source of dismay to the locals is that the main street to this complex is one of the first to be ploughed after a winter storm, long before residential streets receive attention. We take our sports very seriously. The upkeep of the pool requires considerable financial resources. This year, a loan for new, state of the art boilers was approved. A local contractor installed the boilers at considerable personal expense making this project a reality. The pool has worked well for many years, but its seemingly idyllic location has become its bane. Because it is located on the riverbank on not so stable ground and because of its substantial size, the weight of the pool is causing it to slowly tilt towards the river. This tilting causes the pipes to break intermittently, usually over the winter months. This delays Opening Day in the spring and necessitates costly repairs to the circulating pipes. Presently the water level is exactly 3.75 inches lower on the river side of the pool. It has dropped .25 inches since last year. If the sinking continues, the pipes may break necessitating costly repairs. This would be tragic for the Park, Outlook and surrounding communities who all benefit from this facility. Discussion about rectifying the situation by employing a special engineering procedure called “Mud Jacking” to help stabilize the pool has taken place but the cost is prohibitive for this non-profit park. This procedure would add many more years to the longevity of the pool. A $25000 Community Refresh Award could rescue this pool from total collapse and help keep community spirit alive and well in Outlook.
Looking forward to a great day tomorrow, and hoping the weather is great!
Summer moves into autumn
August is almost done with. It has been a great summer thus far here in Outlook. Even with all the rain. The first two weeks of August, which also coincided with a nice time of relaxation, were also very warm. The mixture of rain added to the humidity in the area, which can be a bit of a pain sometimes. However, it gave me the chance to sit down and get caught up on some reading and on some writing.
Image by jen.young via Flickr
Image via Wikipedia
The reading included some of the books in the Jim Butcher Dresden Files series. At some point in time I’m actually going to watch the series that has been airing. I like to equate the Dresden Files like a new kind of hard core detective. Like Mike Hammer had he investigated mystical crimes.
I also cracked open the Sherlock Holmes anthology that I bought recently, revisiting a lot of the stories I remember reading as a kid, and even some of the stories that I watched with the Jeremy Brett version of Sherlock Holmes. I’ve yet to see the latest movie, but I’m going to at some point.
As I stated earlier, there is some writing that I’ve done as well. Blood of the Moon, Flag on my Backpack and even the outlines for a Halloween story (just in time for October) staring Black Mask & Pale Rider. Plus, I set up a site dedicate to just Flag on my Backpack, which runs a little more to the political at times, as that’s eventually how the story will take it’s turn. Real life, social issues will be focused on, while the story will still contain a light feel to it, and somewhat campy at the same time. By the time the end of August rolls around, I probably will be setting Blood of the Moon to the side for a little bit, as I’ve found it difficult to get moving. There may be a re-evaluation of Chelsea and her co-stars that comes with the story, because I honestly don’t want to leave it hanging.
As the end of the month comes upon us, it is a bit disheartening. The sun was setting at 10 o’clock at night and rising at 4 in the morning. Now, it’s started setting at 9 and rising around 5. Still that leaves a lot of sunlight hours in the day, but it’s also a reminder that soon the days will grow shorter and colder. Hopefully we’ll get a nice, warm autumn out of the deal. After all, this summer was much warmer than it was last year.
Until next time…
…keep ‘em flyin’.
Photos to music
A video I put together with several photos I took around Outlook, all put to the tune Home, by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros.
Flag on my … laptop bag
It's my laptop bag. And there's a flag on it.
The first week of my staycation (that means my vacation where I stay at home) is almost done. Presently, I am putting together a video of my walk yesterday down to the Skytrail bridge, which I’ll post on my Youtube account soon enough. Today, I wanted to kick back and relax (like I’ve been doing for the entire week already).
Part of why I like this vacation is that there’s no pressure. I can be at ease and do things at my own pace. Not that I don’t mind going long distances like last year, or even head into the city to take a break from Outlook. But this year, I wanted something quiet and no hassle. And that’s just what I’m doing.
The only thing that could make my Breakfast of Awesome even better would be to add toast and Saskatoon Berry Jam. Hindsight is 20-20.
Part of the awesomeness of a staycation is the food. I know, you might say “but Tim, you get awesome food when you go out someplace else”. Yes, I do, but I also get to try a few different things, or even have something really familiar. Like this morning’s fair of a sliced up apple, crispy bacon and scrambled eggs. Jealous yet? I should say so!
Look to the left. You may begin drooling now.
As I said earlier, I will have a video posted later, and that was of my walk down to Skytrail. Anyone who follows me on twitter will have seen the seven photos I posted yesterday along my walk. I’m going to do another one tomorrow, as I sling my backpack (laptop bag) over my shoulder and head on over to the Outlook & District Museum. I’ll take photos and shoot some video, and I’ll post that tomorrow as well.
I’m also thinking that tomorrow’s food picture of the day should involve ice cream.
Anyway, I only showed a sampling of the pictures I took yesterday. Here’s a bunch more.
Until tomorrow…
…keep ‘em flyin’!
Wow! Just… wow!
How was your Canada Day?
Mine was interesting. It started with a slow start, but knowing there were a couple of exciting things to see. It ended with some exciting fireworks, but sadly, I forgot my camera. Because I was too busy going “Wow, just… wow!” after the opening day game between the Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Montreal Alouettes. The game started off bad, but then something happened.
The most explosive back and forth battle in the CFL occurred. The third highest scoring game in CFL history, with the final score being 54 to 51 in favour of the Riders. In double overtime.
To say that the game was incredible is one thing, but it included a moment of deja vu. In last year’s Grey Cup, the Riders lost on a too many men penalty. It happened again, but this time the Riders had time to score. And they did.
After Montreal booted a field goal, the Riders marched the ball down the field and capped it off with a pass to Weston Dressler. As Dressler said in the post game interview, the Riders were just laughing when the penalty call was made, and Dressler looked to Durant and said “we gotta score again, let’s get it done.”
This opening game for the CFL season was broadcast on the NFL network, and what a game to open the season. The comments on the NFL network board were amazing about the game that got the ball rolling, so to speak. An interesting side note: Weston Dressler and Prechae Rodriguez both scored touchdowns last night. Dressler, who won the 2008 Rookie of the Year in the CFL, was up against Rodriguez who played for the Hamilton Tiger Cats in ’08.
Others to score during last night’s game for the Riders; Wes Cates scampered into the endzone from ten yards out. Cates hit the opening game of the season with over 100 yards rushing, here’s hoping he can eclipse last year’s rushing totals. The Canadian Air Force continued to dominate as Rob Bagg and Andy Fantuz both grabbed touchdown passes. Bagg’s came on an 87 yard pass and run into the house, while Fantuz’s had to go to video replay to see if he was indeed past the goal line when he caught the ball. Chris Getzlaf added points on two point conversion rounding out the air force. Darian Durant also scored on a short quarterback option play.
If this game is indicative of the rest of 2010 for the Riders, then the Riders are looking to repeat in the West and challenge for the Grey Cup again in their 100th year.
Oh yeah, it was Canada Day yesterday as well. There was cake, and fireworks.
And… wow! Just… wow!
Flight of the Skyhawks: Summertime
Summer is here!
In Saskatchewan it officially came at 5:51 a.m. (I know this because my alarm clock radio was blaring the news at the time and it said so). Summertime means summer like activities, you know, like going outside and braving the scare ball in the sky. This also means that Black Mask & Pale Rider will be taking a short vacation as well. This will give me some time to do some much needed clean up on the story, plus present the next part in a much better fashion than what I presently have.
Fear not, dear reader!
This doesn’t mean there won’t be any stories to read. After all, Blood of the Moon will be continuing, and Flag on my Backpack begins July 1st, which will be the summer replacement (think of it like TV, but with text, and your imagination creates the pictures). Also, look for a new draft of the first series, complete with stills drawn by Clarissa R. Hummel. I’m using the summer months to do some sun shine activities, relax and do some reading (which means adding some much needed reviews to current web lit I’ve been reading at Web Fiction Guide). Also, I’m going to be preparing for this coming October’s 31 Days of Ghosts: 2010 Edition. I’ve got something special this time around, that factors in with the western style that Black Mask & Pale Rider have been involved in. Thet’s raight, pardner! Ghost stories of the Wild West! Plus! Blood of the Moon will have a Halloween Special, as each day in October will have a new, ongoing series dedicated to all things spooky!
So that’s the deal for the summer months. Hope you have an enjoyable and fun filled summer. Flight of the Skyhawks will return! Fear not dear readers!
Welcome Summer!
Memorial Day weekend poses for a lot of things, specifically the start of the summer season. Pools open, services are held for those that need to be remembered and cookouts happen! I love and hate this season at the same time.
Yesterday, May 29th the pool in my complex opened. I was quite literally dragged from my bed by my four year old who begged me to go swimming; at 10:30 in the morning. So we donned our swimsuits (of which i bought a new one for myself) and went to the pool.
With the smell of sunscreen and chlorine in the air we trekked the lawn to the pool. Within minute my son became a fish. Only getting out of the pool to jump right back in. Me? I jumped in decided it was too cold and got right back out again to bask in the heated rays of the sun. Along for the poolside fun besides me and my son were my brother’s best friend (in Indiana) Michael, my hobo friend Tony, his friend Ricky who we’ve dubbed as Giggles, Sara, Mallery and Donella.
This was round one. After about 2 hours of swimming we declared lunch and sped off to our houses to get food. We planned on going back to the pool a couple hours later. However, the events of the morning were enough to cause both me and Rhys to pass out after lunch. It was a nice nap. Shortly after waking up, we put our swimsuits back on and went right back out to the pool. Joining us this time was my brother and his friend Kyle.
Now when I say he’s my little brother I say that jokingly. My brother is a whopping 6’9 and just slightly over 400 pounds. So when he makes splash, he MAKES a splash. Him and his friend Kyle who is just a heavy and slightly shorter than my brother, were doing cannonballs into the pool and everyone was cheering, laughing and enjoying the huge splashes they would make.
All in all it made for a great day, even if it did end with some serious cases of red lobster like skin. Rhys and I only have a little bit of color but it still stings nonetheless. I’m looking forward to what excitements this summer holds for me. At least the good ones.
Keep it real and rockin’
<3
Trade Show Weekend
I was going to write about this on Sunday, but a case of the lazies came over me, so bad that I didn’t decide to do this until today (actually, yesterday I was quite busy at work and had a couple of other things to blog about).
This past weekend was trade show weekend in Outlook. The Fourth Annual Outlook & District Chamber of Commerce Trade Show to be exact. 96 booths were featured with businesses throughout the area and even some from Saskatoon came out to show off and describe everything from products to safety (as was seen at the RCMP roll over demonstration). There was even a chance to get a glimpse of two members of the Saskatchewan Roughriders as Marcus Adams and Darian Durant made an appearance in the afternoon.
Of the three trade shows I’ve attended (I missed out on last year’s) this has got to be the best attended one so far. There were a great number of spectators and everyone at their booths mentioned how this was better than last year. And naturally, most everyone was sporting some form of Rider apparel (myself included). As has been said in the past, a picture can speak a thousand words, so without further ado, here’s a sampling of this past weekend.
Marcus Adams and Darian Durant make it to the trade show. Durant, in his first full year with the Riders as starting quarterback, lead the Riders to a first place finish and a berth into the Grey Cup. Adams helped anchor one of the best defenses in the Canadian Football League last year.
The crowd gathers as the arrival of the Riders is anticipated. People could sign the.. well, sign displayed at the back which boldly states Rider Nation.
Almost one hundred booths had different products available. From farm equipment to clothing to furniture to food. This year's trade show had a lot to offer everyone, including the kids, as there was a pony ride and a bouncy house.
The RCMP had their roll over demonstration and a small demonstration with an available police dog.
Saskatchewan Alley Cat Allies made their third appearance to the trade show, this year adopting out a cat. The organization rescues abandoned cats, gives them medical attention and finds homes for them. Sask Alley Cat Allies only had to put down 5% of the cats they rescued last year, compared to 75% by the SPCA. All cats rescued by Sask Alley Cat Allies received treatments and are spayed and nutered. And yes, that's an iguana sitting under the sun lamp.
This is the place I got my new Rider jacket. I needed a new spring/summer jacket anyway, and got it here at the trade show. Tried on the Friday before, but almost all of their Rider gear had been packed away to travel over to the Jim Kook Recreation Complex for the day of the show.
A crowd gathers around another of the attractions, a silent auction. In this same area was where the antique appraiser Vern Reese came to give his expert opinion on items that everyone could bring in for appraisal.
And that’s another successful trade show. Until next year (for the show, at least)…
…keep ‘em flyin’!
Farmer’s Market
A while ago, I did a write up on the local Outlook Farmer’s Market. I like going to farmer’s markets, there’s all sorts of produce and products to buy, and often times you’re pretty sure it’s locally grown or produced.
This past weekend I had the opportunity to go to the Saskatoon Farmer’s market. It was awesome! Located in the city’s downtown and part of the river front project that is ongoing right now in Saskatoon, it was a nice change of pace from the bustle of going through a major shopping centre. It’s also proof that establishments like Wal*Mart will not be the end of all smaller businesses. Mostly because a lot of those smaller businesses have produce and products that Wal*Mart can’t (or will not) carry.
When I walked into the farmer’s market, I had a sudden feeling that this was like the exhibitors lane at the Saskatoon Ex, but on a smaller scale. And it’s held year round, as opposed to just for the ten day duration of the Ex. Or, in the Outlook Farmer’s Market case, just during the summer months. To be fair, this building was set aside by the Saskatoon City Council and by the business community. It adds to the River Landing.
Locally grown produce and locally manufactured food stuffs and hand crafts are all on display. Even a couple of restaurants have set up smaller food court versions in this place to give the place a nice sit down area to have a bite to eat. And next door to it all is a specialty beer and wine store, filled with imported (both internationally and interprovincially) alcohols. From pale ales, to stouts, to bitters, it’s got it all.
It’s one of many wonderful things to do on a Saturday afternoon, or during the week over the lunch hour. Be careful about heading out to the Farmer’s Market during the work day, however, because you can easily lose track of time while you’re browsing the wares. But it is an experience that should not be missed at all. Markets like this are a great thing, whether it’s in a city the size of Saskatoon, or a town the size of Outlook (or smaller). But the bottom line is this; support your farmer’s market. You are in a win win situation when you buy locally grown and produced products.
Until next time…
…keep ‘em flyin’.
The odd and weird
Work around the office is slow, very slow. So it’s given me the opportunity to devise a few posts. I put up a couple of cool observations already today, but wouldn’t you know it, I then find some weird things.
For anyone who is jonesin’ for a Tesla Coil, maybe start searching in the city of Regina. As the blog, Best of Used Regina puts up, there’s someone in desperate need of a Tesla Coil. Maybe they’re working on their own creation that would make Tesla himself impressed. Wonder if anyone in Regina has Jacob’s Ladders? Should I check?
Another odd, yet completely normal thing has been this year’s weather. Past few years has been up and down as far as weather, but this entire year has been strange all around. Essentially a wet cold spring that turned into a cold dry summer (save for two weeks when I was driving back from Indiana), that turned into a hot September. A flash of snow in October, then back to warm conditions throughout Halloween and most of November. But Mother Nature reminded us just how fickle she can be when she dumped snow and cold temperatures on us on December 1st.
I know, I may talk about the weather a lot, but I live in Saskatchewan. Unless it’s politics, curling, agriculture or the Riders in the Grey Cup there isn’t much out there.
Until next time…
…keep ‘em flyin’.
A Taste of Fall
Well the weather this week has be crazy. Last week it did nothing but rain. I was so sick of the rain after twenty-four hours that it starting to affect my mood. Everyone noticed that it was weather. You see I suffer from SADS (Seasonal Affective Disorder,) simply put, I get depressed when it grey and cloudy for an extended period of time. Normally this doesn’t occur until winter rolls through. At times it’s a crippling disorder. Causing myself and millions of others to not want to get out of bed or do the norm for us.
So yesterday (Monday) I was excited to go to work because it was sunny outside. It was also cold and the wind had a bite to it. The previous week, the air was still warm enough for me to turn my AC on just to cool off my place enough to breathe without breathing water. Yes it was that humid.
Now I love fall, between all of the seasons spring and fall are my favorite. Fall more than spring because there is more color. The rich browns, golds, and red, the warm earthy colors that tell you snow is coming. I enjoy the crisp mornings and standing outside to smell the seasons. That’s right I said smell the seasons. Try it some time.
Winter has a cold, crisp smell. Everything smells fresh and new. It also looks pretty when the snow is piled up and still coming down. Yes I know the dangers of the roads I grew up in Philadelphia, and have seen what a blizzard can do to a city that large. But it doesn’t fail to impress me.
Spring has that fresh, wet dirt smell. New flowers filling the air with their fragrance. Life of all sorts waking up or in some cases being born. I remember the first spring I had when I was out of high school. I saw the world in a whole new light. Everything looked brighter and green. It was amazing to watch the yearly flowers coming into bloom seeing them start out as little bulbs and becoming a hyacinth, daffodil, tulip and even lilies. I was lucky enough to live where I could see new life beginning. It was truly a cool thing.
Summer smells like heat, that musky dry smell with a spice kicker. Summer is a great season too but not a favorite only because it’s too stinkin’ hot at times. Humidity kills me, but it’s a sign of great things coming. Like cookouts, outdoor activities, swimming and for kids it’s a mark that school is over for several months. The other good thing about the summer is everyone in my immediate family has a birthday in the summer. Dad is July 8, Brother is July 16, mine is July 23. I’m older by five years and fifty-one weeks. Finally there’s Mom, she celebrates her birthday the 26 of August.
Now on to fall. Fall has that earthy smell without spice. It’s more of a mellow decay smell. My favorite smell is that sun baked leaf smell. Just after it rains and the sun dries the leaves. The leaves falling, while messy, looks amazing . Sure it’s a closing of warmer months, but it a kind reminder that family celebrations are coming. Halloween, Thanksgiving. My only thoughts when the month of November hits is ohemgee where’s my turkey! I love Thanksgiving, not so much the family part but the food part, oh yeah all over that.
So as I was saying, last week my AC was on, this week I open my windows and put the fan in. It’s cool enough that it requires a warm coat to step outside in. I’m sad to see the vacationing season close, but excited that my fall is just as busy as my summer. It will bring about a new set of things for Rhys and I to do. Like collecting leaves. This year, we’ll be able to save those leaves that finds and press them.
It’s also a time to head to the apple orchard for some fresh cider, apple butter and of course apples. Then there’s hay rides and my favorite holiday. Halloween. It’s become cooler since I’ve had Rhys because I still technically get to go trick or treating. It brings up a lot of good memories and helps to make many more.
Keep it real and rockin’
<3
More visiting
Psst!
Zodi has more company at her place. So, she may be a tad preoccupied. I thought I’d use this time to update what’s happening here.
Sadly, due to vacation time, Zodi and I did not get any editing done on the next few pieces of Black Mask & Pale Rider. So, I’ll have to give myself a swift kick in the booty in order to get some stuff laid out. It may be a couple of weeks, but the next part in the adventures of the two elven gunslingers will be up, I promise. You have to remember, neither Zodi nor myself are full time writers. While it would be cool to get the story published, we’re currently just happy offering it to everyone for free for now. Summertime also has drawn us away from some commitments, plus plotting for the next three adventures of Shani and Pania has taken some toll.
So you might wonder who Zodi has as extra company after I have returned home from my week long visit to the Great South Land (a.k.a the United States). I will leave that description for Zodi. Besides, we’ve got more time to discuss the Adventures of Tim and Zodi.
Which brings me to a bit of randomness.
I noticed a glaring difference between Canadian and American border guards. On July 13 I hit North Portal, and was greeted with what I expected. Humourless guards that had a job to do. At the time, I did not realize there was a smaller border crossing to the west which would have been easier to get through. The guards looked rather drab in their dark blue uniforms, gun visibly holstered at their hips. I was questioned in a room for about ten minutes, and had to wait as the guards searched my car. After an hour wait (I never got to see them search the vehicle, but found out later that they merely “patted down” my stuff), they waved me on my way.
On July 26, I returned. Coming to the Portal crossing and driving to the Canadian Customs office. There, I was directed to drive my vehicle to a large building after the border guard asked me a number of questions about weapons, alcohol, tobacco and where I had been and where I was going. I drove my car into the building, where guards were already searching through one vehicle. Three young men were sitting at a table, obviously waiting for the search to end.
Canadian border guards look a lot different. They remind me of RCMP officers in dark blue. Complete with bullet proof vest, two way radio on the shoulder, weapon holstered in RCMP fashion, and neat attire right down to neatly polished boots and black gloves. I began to wonder if these guys were trained at RCMP Depot in Regina. They even brought out a dog, and searched the contents of my car right in front of me. They suggested I sit down at the table, with the three other men.
That’s where things got interesting.
I overheard the conversation clearly. The three men claimed they had tobacco. They had a lot, as the guard mentioned something like 8 cartons of cigarettes and three tins of tobacco. And then the excitement. A guard motioned her partner over and they had a hushed conversation. The first spoke quietly into her radio. Within two minutes, a pair of RCMP Cruisers arrived, and four RCMP officers approached. The two other guards searching my car, escorted me to another room. I discovered later the three also had a large amount of marijuana on them as well. Carrying an illegal drug through a highly used border crossing. Not smart.
After the excitement, the border guards finished their search and I was back on the road. I found it amazing after driving for so long in the States how driving through Regina was like familiar territory.
Tomorrow, I’ll have some pictures of our time at the Indy Zoo.
Until next time…
…keep ‘em flyin’.
Zodi Highjack-like flapjack only less tasty.
As Tim stated I might be a bit preoccupied, as my father has come into town to visit me for two weeks. So now I have to share my computer with BF, brother and now my dad. Mind you I’m not griping about it, I like having my dad around.
The trip to the airport was uneventful except for the fact the plane my dad was on was delayed due to a thunderstorm. Dad landed safe and sound and we made it back home much later than anticipated.
I’m looking forward to the next couple of weeks, but I am also looking forward to this all being over since I’ll be able to get my apartment and life back in small order.
Don’t get me wrong I like having company, I enjoy my friends coming to visit me and my family to visit as well. However, I like my house a certain way and when things change around my house, I have a bit of a struggle in adjusting. Nothing too major, just going to enjoy the company and savor my normalcy when it returns.
Keep it real and rockin’
<3
Finally, it’s in my hands
After nearly a complete month of government red tape, I finally have it. I finally have my passpot in my hot little hands.
Let me detail the process of this quest. Thanks to events of September 11, 2001, new security measures have taken place between what was at one time classed as the world’s largest undefended border. Technically it still is, but now you just need a passport in order to drive across it. The first step was to gather the information to start getting the process going. First off, Passport Canada’s Website. There, I found locations of where I could drop off the necessary forms. Saskatoon has one location. Outlook doesn’t have any. Which meant I needed to drive. And yes, I could have done this online and paid by credit card, but I don’t have one of those things.
Passport Canada does have a good number of forms which you can download direct from their site, which was good for me. I down loaded the handy pdf file, printed it off to read it (I’m one of those weird people that likes to read things on paper, I blame age, and the need for glasses). After reading it over, I went through the process of filling it out, which included getting the signatures from people to say that yes, I am who I say I am. Once that was all done, my trips to the city began.
Yes, I said trips.
Three, to be exact.
The first time, there was a small issue with the paperwork, so I had to go back and have a friend who helped out to resign some information, only to be told that no, he didn’t have a passport for two years. In order for me to get a passport, I need someone who has had a passport for two years to vouch for me. Very hard to find someone like that when most everyone I knew didn’t need one until now, because most everyone I know spends their winters in the States. But needless to say, I found one.
Once that was taken care off, it was one more time into the city. It was getting very close, like a week. But, the clerk behind the counter said the magic words.
“For an extra thirty dollars, we can push this through and you’ll get it on Monday, July 13th.”
It’s absolutely amazing how we as human beings will go forth and willingly pay more money, without question, just to get something done. So, I pay the extra money, and the waiting game begins.
That brings us to today.
Today was a simple transaction. I produced the receipt, I got my passport. It was a done deal. With the help of Zodi, a route has been planned. So starting tomorrow, I’ll post information when I make stops along the way. Assuming I get an internet connection, that is. Or, I’ll have Zodi do it!
Until Minot…
…keep ‘em flyin’!
Zodi Highjack
Having been through the passport process myself, I know what a hassle it is. I made sure that I had it well enough in advanced before I went to England. I even gave Tim a bit of insight on how the States worked theirs. I did tell Tim that it takes a while, and even told him to get started on it months in advance just incase things prevented it. Of course, I knew there would issues that cropped up. Sometimes the government can be a bit anal when it comes to perfection.
So originally Tim was supposed to have left at oh my god o’ clock to arrive here tomorrow. This didn’t happen. He had his car in the shop on Friday for it’s inspection to make sure it was safe to make the 1500 mile trip down to visit me. I was okay with this. Seeing as I want him safe while driving, and not getting stuck on the side of the road. Today Tim went up to the city to retrieve his passport. I squeed a little.
He made his phone calls, set up things so that he wouldn’t have to worry about them while he is away. All was great, trip was set to happen a day later. Tim was supposed to leave at 3 am his time on the 14th, 5 am for me. But as bills come around and tend to steal our money without us even knowing it at times, Tim had a slight problem. That was lack of gas money. I would rather him a day late, then stuck on the road out of gas and probably panicking.
Soooooo with a slight bit of disappointment (which I think I hid pretty well), but a great deal of understanding, we planned the trip to start on Wednesday at oh my god o’clock, and for him to be here on Thursday. Which back in May when all of this started to fall into place, was the original arrival date. Either way I’m still super excited, and anticipating a great deal of fun while Tim is here and I made him promise he wasn’t going to push the date back any further.
Better late than never
Keep it real and rockin’
<3
PS: Service Canada should pull their heads out of their butts on the strictness of photo size.
Sun worship
The months have rolled along and 2009 is well underway. The weather has improved a great deal, as it’s now much warmer than what it was before. Hopefully, it’ll stay this way for a good long while.
With the warmer weather comes the green of the leaves as the trees have suddenly become fully alive. Other sure signs of summer have taken hold as well, those coming early in the morning, and late in the evening.
During winter months, waking up and going to bed is a process of looking out the window into a void of black. At least stars wink back as I look out through my balcony window, cursing slightly as it sometimes has an ice build up leaving it shut quite well. Six months later, the change is the polar (pardon the pun) opposite.
Last night while reading, I just happened to catch the movement of a car driving on the street in front of my apartment. It was still light out, and the little voice in my head said “what time is it”. Instinctively I looked at the clock in my kitchen. It was quarter after 10. I had to blink a couple of times. It was growing dark out, but there was still light. We were in twilight (but no worries, no sparkly vampires). I had a similar effect this morning when I woke up, granted a tad startling than anything.
I’d gotten used to leaving the blind in my room up, with it’s eastern exposure. My bedroom window isn’t huge, but it’s big enough that at 5:15 in the morning, the sun was already peeking into my room. For a moment I had my mind racing that I was late for work, until the logical part of my brain said, check the time. Through a blurred haze I saw the clock, barely making out the numbers 5, 1 and 5. At that moment, the alarm went off. I wasn’t late, the sun was just early.
I live for these months, with the longer days, warmer weather and life in the outside world. I wish it could last all year, but know that if it did, I wouldn’t dream of days like this in the cold dark that is winter.
Until next time…
…keep ‘em flyin’!
Friday randomness
Weather
This was a common sight in Saskatchewan during the 1980s.
I did have a blog post all ready to go complaining about the weather. And then mother nature tosses me a raspberry and in becomes warmer. Windy, but warmer. However, according to environment Canada, this warm weather won’t last too much longer.
The year started off pretty crappy, as March seemed to drag into April, and then into May. Usually May is the time when we look forward to the first buds of spring to really take off. But this year, it didn’t happen until the end of May.
However, now it seems that the weather has decided it really can’t make up it’s mind about if it wants to be warm or cold. Yesterday was a nice warm day, a little windier than I care to have, but still warm. Today, however, turned cooler. We in Outlook were lucky. Some places had temperatures dip below zero, and some got snow. I hope and pray that snow does not hit here until… let’s just say November. I check the forecast and at least there is some warmer weather in sight. Hopefully, it’ll get here soon.
Work
Reid Motors in Outlook.
I can remember last year around this time of year was a scramble in the office. Fridays the paper was usually completed and we had a graduation issue to look forward to. Now, that is much different.
It feels slower, maybe because we publish Wednesdays instead of Fridays. But there’s also a severe lack of advertising coming in. Some of that comes from the fact we no longer will have a GM ad, after the motor giant went into bankruptcy court hearings. It kind of sucks because a lot of small town dealerships were affected, including ours here in Outlook. They didn’t close, but one can only wonder, what happens now.
Anniversaries
Tank Man — This famous photo, taken on 5 June 1989 by photographer Jeff Widener, depicts an unknown man halting the PLA's advancing tanks near Tiananmen Square.
Twenty years ago pro-democracy protesters raised awareness in China. Who can forget the image of a lone man blocking the way of a tank as it tried to get to Tiananmen Square during the several weeks of protesting. Now, the anniversary is come and gone, and one can only wonder if anything was really learned in China, as the government banned several popular web sites including Twitter, YouTube and Google (just to name a few) on the eve of the anniversary.
Personnel of Royal Canadian Navy Beach Commando "W" landing on Mike Beach, Juno sector of the Normandy beachhead. 6 June 1944.
Sixty five years ago, allied armies launched the largest offensive to that date, in a bid to push back the Nazi army. Dubbed D Day, the landing at Normandy saw the six pronged attack by American, British, Canadian and Norwegian soldiers cripple the German army and help bring about the end of the war. In history, I had always been taught that it was Canadian, American and British and did not know of the offensive by Norway. As well, I always thought it was a five pronged attack, with locations codenamed Sword (British), Gold (British), Juno (Canadian), Omaha (American) and Utah (American). Pointe du Hoc was another landing by Allied forces.
That’s it and all for now. Until next time…
Keep ‘em flyin’!
Summertime!
So it’s not offical yet, but summer is here. People are grilling out, drinking summer style drinks and my personal favorite, Swimming.
The pool here opened Memorial Day weekend and I was among the few who ventured into the icy water to enjoy the start of the summer season. Of course the initial shock of jumping into the freezing water always felt like a thousand knives in your skin, but once you get used to the water, it was quite refreshing.
I decided that for once in my life I was going to get a tan and I’m well on my way to that sun kissed look. I’m generally fair skin so I
have two shades in the summer, pasty white and tomato red. This is assuming I don’t use tanning oil or sunblock. Having learned my lesson and seeing what happens when you don’t use SPF something or other, I decided to get a low number of SPF going with 15 so that I have protection from the harmful rays and blah blah blah. For Rhys, it’s spf 50 and even he’s getting a great little tan.
The weather has been wonderfully unstable. Thunderstorms popping up here and there, but usually in the evening after I’ve ventured in for the night. I’m more cautious with storms out here since I live in the start of Tornado Alley. I don’t really like thunderstorms, but have started to grow fond of them, even doing so much as to sit on my front steps and watch Mother Nature’s light show.
Besides swimming with Rhys, my other favorite thing to do is Grill outside. I’m very impatient and prefer my gas grill to a charcoal one, but prefer the hickory flavor of charcoal. I would say on average, I cook on the grill at least three to four times a week. Everything from hot dogs and hamburgers to filet mignon. This also includes vegetables. I love grilled veggies.
Now on to something I’m super excited about and hopefully all will go well. Tim is supposed to be driving down to visit me the middle of July. This excites me for a number of reasons:
- I get to actually meet him in person face to face. Heh. That’s right. Tim and I have never physically met each other.
- I get to cook for him and this could probably trigger a dual blog of Don’tcha Wish Ya Girlfriend Could Cook Like Me. Having Tim tell you exactly what he thinks of my nommy dishes.
- I’m holding him hostage here until the 24th (if he lets me) because the 23rd of July is my birthday. Yay Zodi and reaching the 1/4 part of her life.
With all of this going on, I figure this is going to be the best summer ever.
Keep it real and rockin’
And don’t forget your sunblock.
<3
Days of the Fall
Summer is quickly winding down. Examples of the coming of autumn are all around us. Though the weather has been relatively warm, that still hasn’t stopped the colours of fall to shows up all around us.
The past few weeks I’ve had the opportunity to drive from Outlook down line 19 in delivering a weekly publication to different locations spread throughout the communities along the highway that leads to Lake Diefenbaker. Along the road, nestled in little patches of prairie are these jewels of communities that are surrounded by trees. The small bluffs hide within them the communities of Hawarden, Strongfield and Loreburn. The last jewel in my drive is the village of Elbow that is right on the Lake.
Each of these communities is just off Highway 19 and each has a peaceful tranquility that can only be seen in the small villages that dot the Saskatchewan landscape. It’s almost captivating to be there. For myself, I feel a rush of memories to when I was younger, and would be in Ardath or Conquest when I was growing up.
These gems that lead to Lake Diefenbaker are capturing some attention. Not major news, mind you. But they are being seen as a great place to live for those looking for a summer retreat. I’ve spoken to a few people in Elbow and there have been so many new people that have come in from Alberta and given the communities along the road a new life. I’ve actually found myself thinking about that very concept of moving to a place like these. It isn’t the city, there’s no major shopping centers, no hustle and bustle that pulls one in as the rush of traffic moves like soldier ants down the freeways that is Saskatoon.
It’s much more peaceful than that.
Until next time…
…keep ‘em flyin’.
