Arthurs House

2012-01-28T15:23:00.000-08:00

A Hornby Welcome

For me, coming home always happens in stages. Piece by piece the city armour is removed and Hornby slowly seeps in. I begin to hear the gurgle of the creek running by our front door. Then my eyes open and fill with the black sky broken only by the pinpricks of a million distant stars. The bouncing tree limbs overhead alert me to the chilling wind and to the purity of the air moving inside me. Each revelation leads to the next and soon I realize how much my home welcomes me when I return. The inherent stillness of this place fills and calms me, revealing space around and inside me. And like finally seeing a longed for lover, I am in love anew.

2012-01-18T11:08:00.000-08:00

My Birthday Wish

"If only I may grow:

Firmer, simpler - quieter, warmer."

- Annie Dillard

2012-01-17T13:49:00.000-08:00

The Secret O' Life

When I was twenty something I heard James Taylor singing "The secret of life is enjoying the passage of time". And lately, as I ride my bike on our quiet winter roads or walk along looking up at the evergreens bordering the expansive blue sky, I am lulled into believing he is right. The thrill of breathing this clean arctic air combined with the peacefulness of gently falling snow brings me to this day and to the perfection of my life.

2012-01-08T20:39:00.001-08:00

Sandpiper To Infinity

I love my home.

2012-01-04T14:51:00.000-08:00

A River Runs Through It Now

50 mm of rain yesterday + another 50 mm of rain overnight = our stream becoming more of a rushing creek overflowing its banks now. It makes it even more prodigious that Michael built a new bridge for us last summer or else we would be cutoff from the fun of jumping in the great lakes forming in our backyard. While this freaky weather is worrisome it also gives me a new appreciation for my trusty rubber boots.

2012-01-01T14:02:00.000-08:00

Hornby's Polar Bear Swim 2012

These are just some of the brave and happy souls who banded together and jumped into the beautiful cold waters off Grassy Point. Oh, such winter fun!

2012-01-01T10:07:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

Ring out the false,

Ring in the True.

- Alfred, Lord Tennyson

Bay leaves and garlic and shallots, oh my! Thanks to our dear friend Janice for this inspired wreath of bounty and flavour. May it bless us all in this brave new year ahead.

2011-12-31T15:45:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years Eve

Such a beautiful day, such a wonderful year. From us at Arthurs House to all our friends, family, and neighbours near and far; Happy New Year!

2011-12-30T14:41:00.000-08:00

The Cottage Is Decked Out For The New Year

Michael and I have been hard at work spiffing up Arthurs Cottage for 2012. We are excited for all our guests to enjoy the cozy furniture and decoration we have added. It is our mission to create a space that is rich and soothing where a couple can rest from the fast pace of the city. Of course, the real respite comes from the quiet and grand beauty of supernatural Hornby. But we like to do our humble best to sweeten the deal.

2011-12-26T17:54:00.000-08:00

Turkey Hangover

Happy Boxing Day!

2011-12-26T12:03:00.000-08:00

Lucky Me

This is one of my favourite views on the entire island, found just at the top of the hill on the road going to Ford Cove. It makes for spectacular scenery in a car but on a bike it becomes a destination all unto itself. The small reef in the centre provides a sunning spot for sea lions and you can easily hear their melodious croaking from the road. It is a place where you cannot contain your smile and always reminds me to count at the top of my blessings that I live here.

2011-12-24T12:28:00.000-08:00

It's A (Recycled) Wrap

Definitely the best part of Christmas for me is wrapping the gifts. There is so much to feel; love and gratitude for the people in my life, excitement thinking about their hopeful happiness, and admiration for Michael's incredible talents as a gift wrapper. He approaches each gift differently and works on them like puzzles. I love the edgy feel he gives gift wrapping, turing the wrapping itself into an event and our tree into a party. This is my favourite gift he wrapped this year, the paper coming from a beautiful old calendar he found at the Hornby Free Store. Merry Christmas everyone!

2011-12-23T14:24:00.000-08:00

Cape Gurney

"The one thing grander than the sea is the sky. The one thing grander than the sky is the spirit of the human being." - Anonymous

2011-12-20T17:07:00.000-08:00

Our Country Tree

With the abundance of talented crafters on Hornby Island my collection of homemade ornaments is quickly growing. Each one reminds me of the person who made it and makes admiring our tree all the more rich.

2011-12-12T12:06:00.000-08:00

Christmas Smiles

There is no better way to spend the day than laughing from morning to night. We cemented a new tradition by enjoying morning dim sum with our good friends Doug and Rachelle before we all went out to cut down Hornby grown Christmas trees. I don't even remember what was going on when we made these faces but the spirit of it continues to crack me up. I keep hearing strains of "I'm a lumberjack and I'm okay".

Hail the mighty and successful Chirstmas tree lumberjacks!

After a couple of hours of focused work I put up the 3 string of lights and our tree was ready to decorate. I have discovered that things go much faster if you don't keep stopping to take congratulatory sips of rum and eggnog after every bulb has been placed. And while some might disparage the fullness of our Hornby trees I am sold because they show off the ornaments all the better. Let the reindeer games begin!

2011-12-08T07:53:00.000-08:00

Darkness Reigns

I don't think I ever enjoyed winter nights as much as I do now living on Hornby. The absolute darkness provided by the absence of street lights and the like allows for deep long sleeps, starry skies, and dramatic Christmas lights, even though we only own 4 strings wrapped strategically around one tree.

2011-12-05T11:48:00.000-08:00

The Kindness of Jan

Check out our homemade Christmas wreath, the latest surprise gift from our talented friend Janice. She thoughtfully designed it with a country vibe to reflect the French Country style of Arthurs House. The frame is patiently crafted out of grapevine and the tiny apples come from the orchard near Fords Cove. And in true Janice form, she gave it to us just when we were feeling like we needed a little Christmas.

2011-12-04T09:50:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Doug!

Our friend Doug is one of the nicest guys you could ever hope to meet. If a movie was made about Doug you would need to resurrect Jimmy Stewart to play him. He is incredibly well rounded, funny, smart, happy and kind. He is a stand up kind of guy who goes out of his way to help others and so he easily generates that kind of feeling back toward himself. I know he is also humble enough that this post is probably embarrassing him but I believe people need to hear the good stuff about themselves more often. Happy Birthday Doug!

2011-12-01T07:11:00.000-08:00

Winter's Trumpet Sounds

The leaves have all fallen, signalling the end of one cycle and the beginning of another. The naked limbs look cold and disconcerting against the periwinkle sky but they also hold beauty and truth. Each tree grows differently but all reach for the same light. Just as it is with people. It reminds me that our journey is both continuous and cyclical. But ultimately, I am reminded there is enough light for us all.

2011-11-30T14:36:00.000-08:00

Dream Ride

Maybe I have been living in the country a little too long now because I have a new found appreciation for American made SUVs. We rented this Dodge Dakota Sport to carry a load of furniture home to Hornby and it stoked my pick-up truck envy. Oh, how my life has changed.

2011-11-29T17:05:00.000-08:00

Homecoming

I am never truly home from a trip to the city until I walk around Sandpiper breathing in the fresh sea air and registering the country quiet, a peace unknown to the city. While I enjoy the distractions the city offers in restaurants, shopping and cafes, I am happy to live on this remote island that caters to none of those whims. Instead it leaves me the space to relax my pace, to hear my thoughts, and to focus my gaze. Surrounded by the towering trees' dancing silhouette I find solace in late autumn's dark embrace, unbroken by any ambient light from street lamps or passing cars. The eagles soar, the winds roar, and, yes, the rain pours but time passes slowly. I sleep the sleep of the blessed; deep, undisturbed, and restful. I love coming home.

2011-11-15T07:31:00.000-08:00

Cookie Jar Saved!

I love cookies. I love to bake them, share them and eat them (all too quickly most of the time). And for the amount of things you can buy out there in this consumer's world it is remarkably difficult to find a decent cookie jar. So imagine my delight when we inherited this homemade cookie jar (circa 1979) when we purchased Arthurs House, the ultimate gift with purchase for a cookie-phile like me. Calamity struck though when the lid smashed into a thousand pieces as I was putting it away one day. But the silver lining provided itself in giving me the opportunity to commission the talented and amazing Tom Knott, Hornby's local wood sculptor, to fashion me a handcrafted wooden lid. I wish I could tell you what kind of wood was used but in my excitement I forgot to ask him. What I can tell you is that it feels so right to have the naturalness of wood next to my cookies. To sweeten this story, he and his wife Jonni returned the cookie jar filled with homemade cookies. Now every time I go for a cookie I am reminded how blessed I am to have two new friends.

2011-11-13T12:08:00.000-08:00

The Bette

Michael has been hankering for a burger joint cheeseburger so last night he answered the call of the wild and fired up the barbecue. He left me to dress it and I struck gold when I found our friend Bette's summer gift of homemade rhubarb orange chutney. It literally turned the ordinary into the sublime, every bite ridiculously delicious and better than the last. Along with Michael's sumptuous homemade wedge fries served with au jus we put every burger joint to shame. People constantly lament the lack of restaurants on the island but I appreciate how it forces you to shop your own pantry and become better cooks. The results are usually astounding and so dee-lish. Friends and neighbours, get hungry! There is something new on the menu at Arthurs House.

2011-11-11T13:04:00.000-08:00

In Remembrance

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

- John McCrae, 1915

In honour of all the brave men and women who serve our countries in the pursuit of a peaceful coexistence. We owe you our lasting gratitude.

2011-11-08T16:42:00.000-08:00

Sandpiper Sunshine

Even though we have been enjoying an exceptionally bright and warm autumn, each day of sunlight still seems special. Having lived my entire life on this west coast I am all too aware (while still being appreciative) of our wet and grey reputation. So the other day I took note of the sunshine as it touched the trees and the twisty curving roads around Sandpiper. This dry weather has given us a gift rarely seen in evergreen BC; the slowly savoured changing colour of the leaves.

2011-11-02T20:09:00.000-07:00

Of Baskets and Yogis

A friend once told me that when you most need them your teachers will appear. And for me this fall, they have appeared in droves. Alastair sent me this picture, a reminder of the fun I had last month learning from him. And yesterday I took Jennifer's yoga class for the first time (finally!!), sharing the floor with some of my own Pilates students. It felt great to be a student, to be taught a new way to be in my body. It gives me new inspiration as a teacher; to see as a participant sees and to hear how good teachers describe action and share knowledge. I am fortunate to have so many gifted teachers on this little island.

2011-11-01T16:24:00.000-07:00

Maple Dreams

Both Jan and Rachelle have brought me maple leaves over the last week, giving me cause to admire them anew. What blows my mind presently is their texture; supple like thin, soft, warm leather. As I gape at the translucent leaves and their ability to absorb and filter this precious autumn sunlight, it evokes a mix of appreciation; of being Canadian, of the warm days and cool nights during this unusually dry fall, and of like minds who enjoy the ever changing beauty of nature.

2011-10-31T12:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Hallowe'en Hornby Island

Just some of the colourful people at the hall dance this last Saturday night.

2011-10-29T14:03:00.000-07:00

Hooray!

I have always been a nut about pears; their soft, sweet and juicy melt-in-your bite texture. So imagine my delight when both Susan and Deb came to class the other day with a bag and a box full for me. We have been using them in everything, putting them into pastas and salads, serving them with brie and yesterday roasting them with honey. Yummy!

2011-10-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

Nick Of Time

After an extraordinary run of sunshine and warm weather, today is overcast, windy and raining; in short, a typical "Wet" Coast day and probably the start of more to come. How lucky for us then that yesterday Jan gave us this sunny bouquet gathered from the last flowers in her garden. Every time I see the bouquet I am reminded of what gets us through the darkness and makes life rich; friends and family reaching out to one another in the gift of love.

2011-10-25T10:24:00.000-07:00

Michael's Newest Work

Michael is hard at work doing what he loves best. When we first moved to Hornby we both wanted to recreate ourselves, do new things and discover new passions. Michael has found that expression in his artwork, something he enjoys so greatly he now sees doing it the rest of his life. I am always moved by the beauty he makes, by the energy he invests into the wood he collects. There is a calmness, a warmth, a generosity and, above all, joy. You feel his love for living. It makes me glad we moved here. To see more of his newest work, please visit Country Boards.

2011-10-24T15:03:00.000-07:00

Unexpected Benefits

The ferry closure prompted some of Hornby's year round residents to spend some time abroad. So our usually quiet island has become more so but it extends much further than just noise level. The island feels stilled and more remote, a rarity in our fast age of instant gratification. Combined with this spectacularly warm weather at the end of October and those of us who didn't leave the rock are feeling lucky we made the decision to stay behind.

2011-10-20T17:11:00.000-07:00

Teach A Man To Fish

Michael and I LOVE Christmas cake (I almost never capitalize when I write). We never knew though just how good homemade cake was until my sister in law's mom gave us one. Needless to say, we were hooked ( or maybe addicted is a more apt description). Every Christmas we prayed we would yet again merit the gift of more cake. Thankfully, our friend Rachelle saved us from our pitiful wishing when she shared her family recipe with us. Last year we made the cakes in November, very late in terms of baking Christmas cake. Nevertheless, they rocked! It'll be interesting to see if making them in October will result in more scrumptious cake. And before you ask, no not all four cakes are for the two of us. We plan on helping Santa out by sharing with all the Hornby boys and girls who made the "nice" side of the list, saving ourselves a mere two. Okay, maybe three. Remember, I said we LOVE Christmas cake. For Rachelle's family recipe press here.

2011-10-18T14:45:00.000-07:00

Any Reason To Look Up

We are trying our best to soak up all this welcome vitamin D, stocking up before the inevitable rains. The sky is mesmerizing and keeps drawing my attention to the intersection between blue and green.

2011-10-18T14:38:00.000-07:00

The End Of It All

From October 23rd to November 7th the ferry run between Hornby and Denman Islands is closed to effect repairs and maintenance to the docks on both sides of the crossing. All over the island there are plans of mass exodus as well as hot speculation that the closure will last much longer than the expected two weeks. While local reactions run the gamut from passive indifference to lamenting alarm it does highlight the fact that part of the road to our island home is over water and that I live a BC coastal life, like the CBC classic The Beachcombers (except our Hornby cast is much more improbable and entertaining). Listen for the resounding slam signalling the closing of our island door on October 22nd at 6PM when the last ferry sails.

2011-10-16T17:46:00.000-07:00

Our Indian Summer...

...continues. We are all outside soaking in the sun sharing chores and conversation. There is a chill under the trees but I am revitalized when step back into the light. I hardly recall and easily forgive our soggy July when October shines.

2011-10-14T11:39:00.000-07:00

Sandpiper Solitaire

My friend Rachelle has always praised the good fortune we as Hornby locals enjoy during the off season. She raves about walks on the beach without another soul around, embraced by the expansiveness of nature.

I detoured from the usual walk I take with my dogs today and was surprised to find Sandpiper all to myself. The sun radiated pure energy and the water refracted and amplified it. Deliciously, it was all mine to absorb, sheer Hornby bliss.

They say you should never judge someone until you walk a mile in their shoes. Well, Rachelle is right about our local blessings.

2011-10-12T15:40:00.000-07:00

Today's Welcome Distraction

Dappled autumnal sunlight filtered through the maple leaves in our backyard.

2011-10-11T20:26:00.000-07:00

The Most Stylish Guy On Hornby

"Oh my man, I love him so..."

2011-10-11T20:24:00.000-07:00

Leftovers

To see this meal and post done better click here. Our only consolation is that it inspired us to make yam (yum) fries with a sour cream and cayenne dip. Best use of leftovers are the sandwiches after Thanksgiving.

2011-10-11T20:14:00.000-07:00

My Fortune

Today was so beautifully warm for the middle of October that I spent as much time outdoors as possible. I chopped wood, gardened, and sat on our deck in the afternoon, admiring the sky with its peakaboo blue,

listening to the sound of the waves and the rustling trees,

and gazing at our maple tree and the last rose of summer.

2011-10-11T20:03:00.000-07:00

Loved it!

My dear sister-in-law Kyle gave me this book, the first part of a trilogy and one of those books that makes reading a priority. A strong and young female protagonist set among a futuristic apocalyptic tyranny that has its roots in our popular culture. Fascinating, eerie and slightly revealing, it made reading addicting. Thanks Kyle!!!!

2011-10-11T09:54:00.000-07:00

Brand New Day

The sun breaking through the clouds after a storm has passed will never cease to amaze me. So much so that it actually brings an appreciation for the day and night of continual rain. Giving in to the urge to be outdoors this morning, our walk brought us to Sandpiper Meadow where I was glad to stop and bask in the warmth of the emerging sun. As we went further along I listened to birds singing high in the trees, watched with amusement and admiration as a murder of crows took flight to cleverly drop nuts onto the ground and gain their precious prize, and took pleasure in the smell of wood fires warming the homes around Sandpiper.

Throughout the storm yesterday I marvelled at the brightness of our neighbour's sumac trees across the street, a welcome variation from the evergreen of the west coast. All this brings new truth to Wordsworth's observation that "nature never did betray the heart that loves her".

2011-10-10T19:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Gobble, gobble, gobbled- 'nuff said.

2011-10-10T19:47:00.000-07:00

Home

We just came home from a great visit to our family in Winnipeg. Upon returning home the first thing we always notice is the quiet that literally overtakes our senses and brings us down to a different level. It is our favourite aspect of living on Hornby, the thing that keeps us nourished and happy. And we were lucky enough to also come home on a clear and warm October day when everything feels optimistic and bright.

2011-10-04T18:17:00.000-07:00

Apple Season

Yummm... have you had one today? These come straight from our backyard and the yard of a friend with three varieties of apple trees. Over the last few weeks apples and our Italian prune plums are our go to snack. It almost feels sinful waste to eat chocolate these days. But it makes me glad I live in the country where you grow some for yourself and the rest for your friends and neighbours.

2011-10-03T13:49:00.000-07:00

"Love does not consist in gazing at one another but in looking outward together in the same direction." - Antoine Saint-Exupery.

This past weekend Michael and I celebrated our anniversary. We celebrated without fanfare or any bells or whistles; just quiet, fresh clean air, and a deep togetherness that continues to surprise and delight me daily. A place where we have time to share the small joys that contain a much greater abundance.

Michael singlehandedly invented this reality for us, moving heaven and earth to reshape our lives. He taught me that trust, patience, faith and the overwhelming power of love can replace fantasy with living. Without knowing it, he has shown me a glimpse into infinity.

2011-09-29T15:44:00.000-07:00

The Kindness Of Autumn

My man spent part of his afternoon making pie with the delicious apples from our backyard tree today. He has many talents but I would bet good money most people would fall just for his pie crust alone. All over the island people are trading stories and harvests, sharing everything from tomatoes to apples, Italian prune plums to barlett pears. As amazing as it looks the smell wafting through the house right now makes this picture, and my words, pale in comparison. I can hardly wait to taste it. Then all my senses will have benefited from the bounty of Autumn on Hornby Island.

2011-09-29T15:11:00.000-07:00

The Basket Weavers

Say hello to the latest basket I made with the guidance and support of Alastair Heseltine, master basket weaver and patient teacher who lives here on Hornby. Over the course of two full days he skillfully steered ten of us through the rigours of weaving this Spanish Provisions basket. Basket weaving is not for the faint of heart; you sweat, grunt and struggle your way through the process and in doing so learn as much about yourself as you do basketry. It is a physical, mental and spiritual journey when making a basket; I used every limb (sometimes simultaneously) and even my mouth to tame the willow and bend it to my will. At other times I had to relax, breathe and laugh as I learned again how willow has its own design. But ultimately I learned I have to trust, to let go and to accept what is in front of me because then the beauty is apparent.

This is the second year I have taking Alastair's basket weaving workshop. He is a true artisan and, as such, an elegant gentleman. His craftsmanship is apparent in everything he touches but also in how he speaks the process. In short, he is an inspiring teacher. But another thing I am grateful for though is that this year the workshop was made up of my friends and neighbours whereas last year the same people were strangers to me. And what fun it is to go into the new and challenging with your peeps around.

2011-09-14T08:57:00.000-07:00

Fall Colours

Autumn is easily my favourite time of year. And that appreciation has grown since moving to Hornby because I have a greater awareness of harvest. Everyone around us is reaping, storing and celebrating the abundance. Hornby's Fall Faire is this Sunday and promises to add to the excitement and richness.

We are blessed this year with a bumper crop of plums and apples from our own trees. Many thanks to Dan, Janice and Anna for their instrumental help and the blessing of their friendship.

2011-09-13T10:39:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Holly!

This sweet pup is Holly, our director of homeland security here at Arthurs House. She bravely patrols our perimeter all day, happily running free. In the city she never went outdoors without a leash and now I don't think she could ever go back.

She may look small but she has a big bark. And check out her talent for camouflage.

2011-09-11T13:03:00.000-07:00

Indian Summer Pilates

I am taking advantage of all this warm sunny weather to take my reformer and my workout outdoors. Surrounded by bird calls and the soft breeze I am twisting and bending and breathing my way back to life. Our week of intense housework and chores required lots of bending over and it left my low back feeling cranky. But after one workout I am happy to say that the pain is gone. It feels so good to move in the Pilates way again. And getting the chance to workout outdoors is such a great motivator too.

2011-09-08T07:59:00.000-07:00

Indian Summer Wardrobe

I just read a post on the Satorialist titled Goodbye To Summer which says the weather in NYC is "rainy, cloudy and cool". Here on Hornby Island we are living the most beautiful September I can remember, sitting in the hottest temperatures so far this year. It feels like payback for the rainy and cool July we all furrowed our brows over. While my man the Satorialist is planning his fall wardrobe I am wondering which pair of shorts to wear today and whether my abs are still shirtless worthy. Such is my life here in paradise.

2011-09-07T21:56:00.000-07:00

The Wise Squirrel

Michael and I have been busy tackling an arm's length of chores. Having said our goodbyes to our last summer guests, we have a week of repairs and maintenance before our fall season begins. I learned last year how much work there is to do in the fall when you live in the country so it feels good to have such a head start on things. I once heard a report on CBC Radio One that stated 85% of Canadians live in an urban setting, leaving only 15% in the rurality. When I realize I am apart of that 15% I am noticeably surprised and amused. For me to trade in designer labels for gardening shears is somewhat akin to walking on water. I now change with the seasons and see how much value there is in the diligent work to store away precious nuts, saving the play for later. What is most surprising is how good I feel energetically, how I can rise at 5 and head straight into work solidly until 5 later that same day. I don't expect this energy or pace to last much longer but I am enjoying it for now. I feel so powerful and healthy. Must be all this clean country air and quiet deep sleep. It truly is good for the soul.

2011-09-05T07:17:00.000-07:00

Stillness

Sandpiper Meadow is easily the most peaceful place I know in the world. A vantage point between sea, sky, and earth, the tranquility is tangible and always brings me a renewed appreciation for Hornby Island and my home. People come here to meditate, practice tai chi, yoga and Pilates, get married, or as a short layover before combing the beach. Some sit to welcome the morning light and others sit surrounded by night's darkness save the halo of their beach bonfire. During the sunrise the water is almost invariably calm and brilliant. As a novice meditator it leaves me feeling inspired and hopeful for the day ahead. Having lived here a year now I blessedly move on island time. But the meadow's serenity has such power that it stills slows me down and I feel the impact of clean air in my body while the quiet infuses my mind and being with a lasting peace.

2011-08-28T15:34:00.000-07:00

The Beauty Of Imperfection

One of the lessons I am constantly learning in my life is how overrated perfection is and that imperfection is way more fun. Jan gave me this whimsical tomato with its own beak the other day. The thing that made it stand out is the reason it came home with me. Although I appreciate every tomato grown and given to us by our dear Jan this little guy is memorable. It's a bird, it's a plane, it's a teapot... it's a whole lot of fun!

2011-08-25T14:58:00.000-07:00

Let The Games Begin

The blackberries in Sandpiper are ripening as I type and I am all set to stretch and reach and twist and bend my body into a contortionist's dream to win as many of these delicious treasures as possible. All over the island you see faithful and brave pickers sweating in the summer heat wearing long sleeves and pants to give them as much thorny protection as possible. Last fall and winter our guests and friends enjoyed our homemade blackberry jam (as did we). This year I am roping Michael into picking service and together I know we will gather more than ever. I bet the number of friends grow in accordance with the amount of berries we pick.

2011-08-25T14:44:00.000-07:00

The Power of Janice Squared

Tomatoes grown by our friend Janice down the street + lettuce mix grown by our friend Janice who lives on the other side of the island = a salad much greater than the sum of its parts and another reason I love Hornby Island during the summer.

2011-08-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

Heirloom Tomato Heaven

I just took a bite of this tomato grown by Pam Gordon (a local farming legend who just turned 80) and got so excited I had to stop and take a picture to share it with you. Michael was lucky enough to snag one of the two tomatoes Pam brought to Market this week. I alternated between bites by itself, bites with basil grown by our friend Elaine, and bites with bitter greens given to us by my new friend Janice. The verdict? This amazing tomato needed nothing to bring out its sweet and truly delicious flavour.

The cost of this heirloom tomato? $2.

The cost of the taste? Priceless.

I love living on Hornby Island.

2011-08-18T11:32:00.000-07:00

Under My Skin

Last weekend we went to an art show featuring four local female artists, including our dear friend Elaine. Titled "Under My Skin" the show explored the human body in a fantastic and fantastical context and included painting, drawing and sculpture. I left with great inspiration and such positive energy, feeling good about life and myself. We were even lucky enough to scoop up one of Elaine's pieces to add to our growing collection of Hornby art.

2011-08-18T11:22:00.000-07:00

Best Cinnamon Buns Ever!

I know I have a habit of hyperbole but I kid you not, these are the best cinnamon buns and you can only get them here on Hornby Island. Bonnie is a baker extraordinaire and a warm ray of sunshine to boot. I asked her once what recipe she used and she told me that she uses no recipe. She learned to bake from the Amish when she was young and literally uses a pinch of this and her own feel to make these amazing, better than anything-anywhere-else cinnamon buns. And what's even more, last summer she would bake 10 pounds of morning delights for each market out of a small trailer's kitchen.

Her beautiful daughter Mikalah sells her delicious wares at Market twice a week. She is just as sweet as her mom and makes cinnamon bun shopping all the more satisfying. And she skillfully manages the lines of faithful followers who queue for the buns every market.

And even though I am one of the devoted and faithful fans of her baking, Bonnie's energy and hugs are even sweeter. You cannot be around her without smiling, having fun and feeling good. And what could be better than that?

2011-08-10T06:52:00.000-07:00

Cloud Gazing

Can you see the poppy in the sky? Or maybe it is a firework exploding in the afternoon expanse above our house. I have always loved watching clouds pass by and staring off into the wide blue yonder. It not only calms me but brings me into greater awareness and appreciation, igniting imagination and, conversely, productivity. And for something as common and precious as our shared air, it invariably always brings joy. To join the cloud revolution check out The Cloud Appreciation Society.

2011-08-10T06:36:00.000-07:00

Fernwood Coffee Company

Our new friends and current guests brought us a very special gift - coffee they roast from their cafe in Victoria, the Fernwood Coffee Company. All I can say is it is good to have friends in caffeinated places. Considering how much we love coffee this generosity is worthy of canonization. Thank you Terra and Ben!

2011-08-07T15:49:00.000-07:00

Hornby Millinery Style

At the HUGGS chair auction last week Hornby society all decided to face the summer heat with decided style and grace. Who said we were a bunch of hippies in the first place?

2011-08-07T09:20:00.000-07:00

Going Once, Going Twice...

Last week HUGGS (Hornby's Grandmothers and Grandsisters) held an auction to raise funds for The Stephen Lewis Foundation, reaching out to care for African kids orphaned by the AIDS epidemic. Chairs were either donated, found or reclaimed and then transformed with imagination and paint by a number of Hornby's resident artists and craftspeople. As you can see, the results were spectacular and exciting enough to raise a staggering $27,000.

There were a total of 90 chairs auctioned, each reflecting the particular style of the artist who revamped them. Sometimes the stories of the chairs' origin and their inspiration were as entertaining as the chairs themselves. And each chair drew appreciation and excited bidding from the busy auction crowd which attracted locals and visitors alike.

Gloria Herbert single handedly re-imagined and painted 10 chairs for the event. Each chair it seemed grew more elaborate and fantastic than the last.

This whimsical Piano Stool brings a whole new turn to musical chairs.

The members of the HUGGS Society also graced us with their enthusiasm and selfless passion to help others. The commitment to their mission to help and connect with other grandmothers, sisters, and children on the other side of the world inspired us all to donate as much as we could, adding to the often-times fevered bidding. It reminds me of Mother's Teresa's quote: We can do no great things; just small things with great love.

Graham Herbert, one of our two energetic auctioneers did a great job of generating bids and fun.

While we lost this beauty our friend Lynn painted...

we happily took home this gorgeous adirondack chair painted by our other friend Anne.

2011-08-05T10:28:00.000-07:00

My Friend The Gardener

Michael and I are so lucky to have our friend Janice, a gardener and an unsung floral artist. This is Jan's latest bouquet to us, a riotous cacophony of colour that screams of summer warmth and heady country love. Every time we look at it we are reminded of our abundance living on Hornby Island.

2011-08-05T10:19:00.001-07:00

Just Ducky

I just met Ducky for the first time this past Wednesday. I don't know what she is selling at the market but whatever it is I know I am buying.

2011-08-03T16:50:00.000-07:00

Rachelle

Sitting high atop the Farmers Market hill is Rachelle's elegant stand featuring her sensitive and beautiful pottery. While going to Japan to teach English and earn extra money to complete her masters degree, Rachelle became fascinated with Japanese pottery to such a degree that she became an apprentice instead. And we are all the better for it. Every year multitudes of people come to Hornby and fall in love with her work, taking home a tidal inspired treasure to enjoy and to remind them of the beaches and the ocean.

Although a potter by profession, Rachelle's artistic flare is evident in her stand itself. Always beautifully displayed and visually engaging, Rachelle's stand is a favourite at the market among patrons and vendors alike. Her work invites you to touch and feel it, to pick it up and to hold it in your hands. While it appears delicate, it is incredibly well made.

A fan of fresh flowers and an avid gardener, Rachelle's work is the quintessential compliment to display a bright floral bouquet or a singular chrysanthemum. And she just began making these slim pitchers which perfectly picks up the movement of her carvings from spout to handle.

Imaginative, organic, and calming, Rachelle's work turns everyday living into something enjoyable, memorable and beautiful. She is a humble but true artisan.

2011-08-03T15:28:00.000-07:00

True Hornby Fraternity

Bravely taking the square out of square dancing on Little Trib Beach.

2011-07-31T16:58:00.000-07:00

Ian

This handsome young man is Ian; electrician, volunteer firefighter, and new superdad to Opal and Beckett. And to boot, he is also a great baker who makes the most delicious scones for the Farmers Market, including cranberry, callebaut chocolate, and candied ginger. To sweeten the deal he also sells rooibos chai which makes the perfect complement to the scones. And on top of all that, he is literally the nicest guy you could ever hope to meet. His stand is popular from beginning to end of market and most of the fellow vendors are his regular customers.

Opal and Beckett were born to Ian and his wife Jules last June. They are thriving and mom and dad makes it look like they have been doing this their entire life.

And this week's market also featured talent from the Hornby Festival, our world famous music festival that brings folk, classical, contemporary, African funk, and fiddle dance to Hornby. Besides the nightly performances the artists also perform small concerts in the natural surrounds of Hornby.

These midsummer weeks are the liveliest of the year on Hornby and the busiest at the market. We as locals are so grateful for our visitors and vacationers because they give our local economy a huge boost and they remind us locals just how lucky we are to live here year round.

2011-07-28T11:59:00.000-07:00

Sheree

This smile is quintessential Sheree - open, unabashed, and warm. She is an avid and talented photographer in love with her island home where she finds "much to amuse the muse", including flowers, eagles, butterflies, and deer. This is her first year at the market sharing her photographs, both as framed pieces of art and as simple and colourful cards. Needless to say, she is meeting much success and praise from market goers and locals.

This frog is my favourite image of hers so far, a simple moment of shared contemplation.

At the other end of the market Michael met this young lady busking near our stand. Shrewdly she told him that she hopes she stays small and cute because she claims it is the secret to her success. She said her older and more practiced brother makes nowhere near the coin she collects from her efforts. Smart cookie!

And speaking our of stand, here is its latest incarnation. Market is proving to be as fun as always; a chance to meet friends old and new and to share in the creative economic heart's blood of our island.

2011-07-26T17:10:00.000-07:00

Summertime Living

This summer we are going rustic, taking a self imposed rest from television, the stereo, and even rationing internet use. Some of you might wonder "What's left?". Well, how about fresh, organic blueberry pie! Michael is an expert pie maker, having a knack for making crusts from scratch. While I am a good baker who follows every direction precisely, he instinctively feels his way through the process and it always come out perfectly. Which drives me crazy until I have my first (then second and so forth) bite.

Limited distraction is also providing room for reading. And being neither an avid reader or well read, I can easily count on Free Store finds, friends and the library to keep me going for the entire summer and, hopefully, beyond.

And of course, what is life without good friends, easy conversation and good food? Tonight we are putting our new deck again to good use, hosting a dinner party surrounded by bamboo, salmonberry, honeysuckle and warmed by the summer air. Summertime living is easy indeed.

2011-07-26T16:30:00.000-07:00

The Walnuts Are Coming!

We are blessed to have a walnut tree in our backyard. Last year I gave my mom and dad two bagfuls of nuts, some to our friends and neighbours, and still enjoyed lots myself. They are truly heaven sent, falling from the limbs when they are ripe so that all I have to do is bend down to pick them up. Last year I didn't know to look up and watch their development but now I follow their transformation almost daily, marveling at their green birth and slow process to maturity. My brothers had better do something smart to keep up for the position of favoured son.

2011-07-21T13:51:00.000-07:00

Maija

To know Maija, even for a moment, is to be inspired. Part gardener, herbalist, naturopath, artist, actress, and fiber arts designer she is passionate about health and the raw food movement. Her exuberance for good living is literally contagious and I would dare anyone to leave her without feeling like they were given greater energy and knowledge about healthful living. Her stand at the Farmers Market is always a hub of activity and an emporium of joy; beautiful bouquets, tempting melt-in-your-mouth raw truffles, heirloom vegetables, handmade designer shawls, ponchos, and jewelry and life enhancing aromatherapy. But the best thing about her stand is to be in her enthusiasm for living a simple and honest life connected to the earth. After surviving the Indonesian tsunami, Maija left what most people would believe to be the pinnacle of fame and fortune for a quiet life on Hornby Island. Like an alluring character from a French movie, her voice is as smooth as a purring cat and her subtle accent resonates with deep warmth. But clearly, it is her talent that speaks volumes for her. Besides finding her at the Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays her and her husband Darren can be found at the Old Rose Nursery on Central Road.

2011-07-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

Patti and Pamela

One of the greatest gifts to come from moving away from Vancouver has been the visits from old friends. When someone makes the effort to take 3 ferries (or 2 ferries and a flight) you know they are worthy friends, friends you are going to have for a lifetime. Without the day to day distraction of work or schedules, a visit with friends on Hornby opens up more time to slowly and deliciously savour time with one another. This past week Patti and her sister Pamela came from Mesa and San Diego respectively to visit us in our new island home. We spent two evenings over lengthy dinners talking, laughing, and discovering. Patti has always been someone who inspired me deeply; she is one of the best physical movers I have ever known, a triathlete who is constantly winning her races, and someone with a big heart but a gentle and quiet energy. Her sister is delightfully open. Their parting gift to us is this dream catcher made by a Navajo First Nations member, which now sits perfectly and appreciatively in our cottage bedroom. Without knowing it, Patti and Pamela put the finishing touch on our cottage bedroom makeover, like a blessing for good sleep from our good, dear friends.

2011-07-14T17:54:00.000-07:00

Re-imagined

Last week our wonderful guests bought one of Michael's Country Boards. At first I was a little bummed out because I was enjoying it so much on our new cottage deck. But then Michael brought out this board and I couldn't believe how well it fit with these bouquet he made with roadside wildflowers, our backyard St. John's wort and the peonies and roses our friend Janice gave us. Proves to show that you have to let things go to make room for more beauty. And it also proves what a genius my man is.

2011-07-14T17:29:00.000-07:00

Rainy Days on Hornby

Michael comes from a family who were fortunate enough to have a cottage in the Lake of the Woods. For years we vacationed there in the summer and every once in a while it would rain for weeks solid. Being cabin bound would lead to a condition called being "laked", a stir crazy feeling from being cooped up with no place to go. Well, this summer has been especially rainy here on Hornby and yesterday the rain never stopped. We went straight into a tailspin of the Hornby equivalent of being laked; cabin fever. So today we took advantage of the break in the rain to get outside and went to Helliwell Park, something we almost never do in the summer because the park is so popular with vacationers. In rare summer solitude, we marveled at the trees standing in the dappled though infrequent sunlight, the heavy wind blowing the unusually lush tall grasses into leaning, and the tide out far away from shore. We took advantage of the missing tide to walk closer to Flora Islet than we have ever been, breathing the salt air in deeply. A family of fellow beachcombers alerted us to a sole bull sea lion laying on the rocks and we walked to 10 feet of him, laughing as he uninterestingly sent a lazily eyeball in our direction. I guess we are hardly worth noticing but we felt completely the opposite of him (or her). Having gone without my camera I picked up this broken nautilus shell with the most amazing polished purple interior to share with you instead. Once I found it I kept looking for a complete one and it wasn't until later that I realized that the imperfection of the one I found was a lesson waiting for me to rediscover. Seeing what is front of you is better than looking for an imagined perfection that in reality doesn't exist. In the end, cabin fever has its purposes and its profoundness after all.

2011-07-08T14:59:00.000-07:00

Oh Bed! Oh Bed!

Oh bed! Oh bed! Delicious bed!

That heaven upon earth to rest the weary head.

-Thomas Hood, poet

We just invested in a new Sealy posturepedic bed for Arthurs Cottage. Let the good sleeps roll!

2011-07-08T08:51:00.000-07:00

Elaine

Welcome to my Farmers Market series. Each Wednesday and Satruday I will take you to a different booth at the market to showcase our talented and exuberant community. And a proper introduction would be impossible without first visiting the iconic Elaine. A farmer, artist, florist, tee shirt designer and all around Hornby Island institution, Elaine is a testimony to the multi faceted life you can lead living on this island. You can lose yourself for a good long while talking with her, marveling at the food and flowers she grows and contemplating her whimsical art.

But beyond all the things she does and excels at, Elaine is a good friend who generously shares her love of this island by sharing herself with those around her. Her boundless energy, her open smile and her resonant laughter endears her to you immediately but it is her full and wild life that will stay with you far after meeting her.

2011-07-05T07:04:00.000-07:00

Dance Of The Butterfly

There is always something everyday that reminds me how fortunate I am to live on Hornby Island. Sometimes it is a walk through the garden or down to the beach while on other days it is the smile of a friend and neighbour. But today it is following the path of this patient and trusting butterfly who confidently posed for these point and shoot pictures. Something to alight the mind every and anywhere.

2011-07-03T21:33:00.000-07:00

State of the Garden

Welcome to my morning of appreciation and to the colours of my life. It is all too easy to live today as everyday. Hornby Island is a gentle but steady reminder to open your eyes and see what is in front of you. I hope you enjoy seeing it too.

I wish you could inhale the fragrance of this wild rose.

The first bloom of a burgeoning wild rose bush.

The cottage honeysuckle.

"if we look at the world with a love of life, the world will reveal its beauty to us." - Daisaku Ikeda

2011-07-01T12:51:00.000-07:00

Strawberries

Oh for the good fortune of friends who are avid and generous gardeners. Jan went to visit Anne the other day and brought us this picturesque bundle of strawberries. And although a picture is worth a thousand words it is a pale shadow of the sweet and heady taste of summer these perfect red berries provide. Or I should say "provided" since we quickly gobbled them up.

2011-06-27T13:33:00.001-07:00

My hero

I lost my camera about a week ago. To a dedicated blogger like me this felt akin to cyberspace exile. At first I lamented ever getting it back but then some of my Pilates students reminded me when things go missing on Hornby they usually get found. And they were so certain that my camera would be returned as to make my concern a non issue. I took their advice and like a young Natalie Wood in Miracle on 34th Street, I started faithfully reciting "I believe, I believe, I know its silly but I believe". A mere week later the ever smiling Peter Panjoyah told Michael he had found the camera and was keeping it safe for us (notice the halo of radiance shining over his head in the picture). And in the interim my ever-wonderful friends Doug and Rachelle lent me their camera as well as researched the best options on the market for me to replace my own. All in all, my camera going missing has taught me some valuable lessons; I live in a wonderful place where people look out for one another, I have great friends and neighbours who willingly go the extra mile, and that I need to lighten up about the small stuff. Things invariably go missing but, wow, when they come back you realize how silly it is to spend any energy on missing them. At the risk of repeating myself, sometimes you can only get by with a little help from your friends.

2011-06-26T22:12:00.000-07:00

Hornby Magic

There is a different feel to the island this weekend. The excited summer vacationers have arrived and the island locals are energized for the busy summer ahead. New faces at the Co-op, old friends catching up, weddings, families playing and people lounging on the beach recovering from both work and play. But there is one common thread that ties us all together; a deep love for Hornby Island.

This year is different for Michael and I as well because we head into this summer as locals. We wave reassuringly at one another, encouraging each other on. We celebrate each others successes at market and we feed off the happy enthusiasm from those visiting. And we nod with a warm smile when visitors tell just how lucky we are to live here.

2011-06-23T17:42:00.000-07:00

Arthurs Cottage New Deck

Welcome to our new outdoor space at the cottage. Our good friend and local island builder Doug built this amazing cedar deck for us, along with our humble help. With the patience of Job, Doug kindly taught me how to use an electric drill (don't worry Doug, I promise to buy you a new set of drill bits). After three days of measuring, cutting, framing, drilling and hammering it is done and we are all set for the summer heat.

Michael and I are all about deck space. In the city we lived our summers on a 200 square foot deck facing the ocean and the sunset. And when we moved to Hornby we were so happy the house had both a sun deck surrounded by wisteria and a ground level deck for sitting in the yard and outdoor dining. Now with this new addition we are right on course for the best summer yet.

This afternoon we added the finishing touches (our favourite part). Now all we need a good blast of summer heat (which I know is just around the corner). To the great outdoors!

2011-06-20T17:11:00.000-07:00

Summer Love

We are busy this week getting the house ready for our summer house guests. I feel a little like the Captain of the Love Boat, greeting each week's guests and helping steer them on their Hornby adventures. I know they are destined to fall in love with Hornby, either for the first time or all over again. Perhaps they will swim in the nighttime phosphorescence down at our local Sandpiper Beach or stargaze at meteor showers over at Grassy Point. Or maybe something as simple as picking the blackberries along the side of the road or spending all day at one of our white sand beaches will do the trick. Or even simpler, they will thrill to the sound of the birdsong or the sea lions bark encased in Hornby's supernatural quiet. Our job as ambassadors and matchmakers is easy - we love our island and we are excited to share it with our guests. In a way, their joy feeds our own. Happy Summer everyone!

PS Thanks to Doug and Rachelle for lending us their camera after I lost my own. When I moved here someone told me the best part of Hornby is the people who live here - I couldn't agree more.

2011-06-18T08:42:00.000-07:00

Summer Art Shows

Last night the Island Gallery held an opening for their 2011 Summer season at the Community Hall. The gallery was going guerilla this year but at the eleventh hour they found a small but charming space at the Ringside Market. Although the show features the varied collected pieces of many island artists (everything from painting to pottery to photography to sculpture) I love how all the works complement one another. It highlights the wealth of imagination and talent on our little island and is an easy place to lose yourself, creating a wish list of art to decorate your life.

Last night was also the first art show Michael participated in as an artist. I am so proud of my man. The show is up until this Sunday and is worthy of a contemplative afternoon.

2011-06-17T16:47:00.000-07:00

Getting By With A Little Help

It never ceases to amaze me how life conspires to bring me back to awareness. Sometimes it calls in help from every imaginable and unrelated corner to wake me up from my haze of doldrums and funks. This week has been full of ups and downs but I am lucky enough to have patient and wise friends steer my way back to the simple unadulterated joy of flowers blooming, wind blowing and birds singing, back to the completeness of this moment. Thanks Rachelle for showing me what is right in front of my eyes and soon enough so that I didn't miss it. I'm back!

2011-06-03T17:46:00.000-07:00

Weather Report: Hornby Island

Summer's here!

2011-06-03T10:17:00.000-07:00

Be Blessed

Blessed are those who take a step forward by letting go of where they have been

Blessed are those whose animal bodies recognize their forgotten nature

Blessed are those whose face soften as they smile and line as they age

Blessed are those who hear their own hearts and speak their discovered truths

Blessed are those whose eyes squint looking at the sun and close welcoming the rain

Blessed are those who find the miraculous in the mundane

Blessed are those who find wonder in taking a breath, a leap, a look, a chance

Blessed are those who live in awareness this day is all we have

Blessed are those who want what they have and praise what they do not

Blessed are those who recognize themselves in the faces of each other

Blessed are those who practice forgiveness with themselves

Blessed are those who know and teach those who want to learn

May you be blessed

2011-06-01T21:36:00.000-07:00

Hornby Island Special

Oyster mushrooms handpicked by Doug and Rachelle + Elaine's homegrown swiss chard and kale + Jan's fresh oregano picked straight from her garden + Michael's amazing homemade crust = Michael's newest pizza, my new favourite dinner, new heights of culinary accomplishment and deepened gratitude for the generosity of my island friends.

Wow!

After dinner Torres scored the only goal of the game in the last 20 seconds of the 3rd period, winning Vancouver the first game of the Stanley Cup Finals. Wow, again. What a perfect night!

2011-05-31T14:29:00.000-07:00

Come With Me Under The Sea

We are lucky enough to have friends kind enough to share their canoe. Canoeing is one of our favourite ways to spend time together; Michael does all the work and I lay back, take pictures and sing songs where no one will hear. Today the tide is out and the water so clear the sea floor florescent colours were easily admired.

We came upon a herd of sea lions sunning themselves on the rocks and laughed as they belly flopped their way into the water. They swam close enough to send a clear message: no paparazzi welcome! We continued on our way and sailed into the distance, smelling the clean sea air, cooled by the summer breeze and thanking our lucky stars that we live where we live. Many thanks to Mary and Terry for the use of their canoe and for a perfect summer's day.

2011-05-30T22:03:00.000-07:00

Butterfly Butterfly

Another moment of Hornby Island whimsy, this one from a walk along the Lower Shelf in Mt. Geoffrey Provincial Park. Butterflies are such magical insects and such stuff that dreams are made on. I wonder what would it be like to start life as a land creature, fall into a deep sleep and then be reborn with the power of flight. The trade off of designer shoes and fast cars seems small in comparison.

2011-05-28T15:18:00.000-07:00

To Market To Market

Welcome to our stand at the Hornby Island Summer Farmers Market. Last year I sold cookies, squares and coffee cake on a small table. I would come home and excitedly tell Michael about all the people I met, the things I bought and the treats I ate. So this year he wanted in on the fun. He re-imagined our stand and, with his usual talent and enthusiasm, created a knock out sensation. These are his country boards and I am still the humble baker. The market runs only on Saturdays through June and then goes into high gear on Wednesdays and Saturdays through the summer. It is the place to eat, shop, visit and be seen on Hornby Island during those two days of the week.

2011-05-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

The Colour Purple

"- Listen, God love everything you love - and a mess of stuff you don't. But more than anything else, God love admiration.

- You saying God vain? I ast.

- Naw, she say. Not vain, just wanting to share a good thing. I think it pisses God off if you walk by the colour purple in a field somewhere and don't notice it.

- What it do when it pissed off? I ast.

- Oh, it just make something else. People think pleasing God is all God care about. But any fool living in the world can see it always trying to please us back."

- From The Color Purple by Alice Walker, 1982

2011-05-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

The Day Before The Rains Came

Our good friends came up from the city to visit and we have been enjoying our island home as tourists. We've cruised through miles of smiles exploring the island in a convertible, gazing up at passing cool of the green trees set against the warm blue sky. I found myself thinking I will never fully know my own home. There is always more to discover; new beaches, new viewpoints, new isles in the Coop, and renewed love for this island paradise. And going to the places I always frequent only made me realize they can constantly be rediscovered. And what a great feeling when we noticed our good fortune in waving hello to our island friends and neighbours everywhere we went.

In usual Hornby fashion the day graced us more magic than expected, a sun dog poised high over Big Trib Beach.

And as my friend Gina so joyfully and simply resonates: "Let summer begin!" Of course, just as soon as we soak up this beautiful and much needed rain.

2011-05-20T09:42:00.000-07:00

Excellence

When I first moved to Hornby I saw it through my jaded big city eyes. I compared it to what I always knew and immediately thought it less because it was small and simple. But I am constantly touched by the fortitude and great facility Islanders demonstrate everyday. Case in point with my friend Janice. She quietly goes about her work running Janice's Gardens, a simple flower stand where she sells flowers, vegetable plants, and hanging baskets from Spring throughout the Summer. Her bouquets are straightforward and beautiful; Janice always lets the flowers speak for themselves. But underneath what I assumed was a simple flower stand is a one woman tour de force. Janice grows everything from seed which she begins nurturing inside her home in winter. In Spring she moves them into greenhouses in her yard, transplants, reorganizes, transplants again, and coaxes the multitude of plant life she gathers and reaps. And then she moves them to her stand daily during the summer where she has to outsmart the deer who might want to come hungry for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night snacks. On top of all this growing business her own garden is a lovely medley of textures, colours, and shapes. Did I say already she does this all by herself? And like all true gardeners, she gives all the praise to Mother Nature, forever fascinated by the miracle of pollination and the whimsical, delightful mystery of life's changing cycles. Through Jan and my other Island friends I have learned how simplicity is just the appearance excellence takes when the artist transcends their art and instead lives it.

2011-05-19T06:14:00.000-07:00

Goose is Six and Laying!

Lucy Goose turns 6 today and is spending the day in style, soaking up the Spring rays on our sun deck and drinking chihuahua chi-chis. Let the party begin!

2011-05-18T09:32:00.000-07:00

Apple Blossoms

The weather is sublime here now. And don't apple blossoms look like a corsage waiting to be tied to someone's wrist? Ah, the sweet delicious feeling of Spring in May and of love in the air.

2011-05-17T18:36:00.000-07:00

Hornby Island's Only Traffic Jam

Our friend Kathi is, by her own admission and with complete island consensus, a jam savant. Her incredibly delicious jams have the two of us salivating each time we stare greedily deciding which jars are coming home with us. We are so proud to use her jams in the homemade breakfasts we serve to our B&B guests. Every flavour (the list is extensive and creative) is a singular treat and an instant favourite. Kathi sells her wares at the Farmers Market starting this Saturday here on Hornby Island.