Anemoi

MAY 31, 2010

In Greek mythology, the Anemoi (Greek for "winds") were wind gods who were each assigned a cardinal direction from which their respective wind direction came from. As well, these gods were associated with different seasons and weather conditions. The four main Anemoi were: Boreas (north wind and bringer of cold winter air), Notus (south wind and was thought to be responsible for storms associated with the late summer / fall)., Zephyrus (the west wind and brought the light breezes associated with spring / early summer) and Eurus (the east wind and was not associated with the three Greek seasons).

The weather was rather gloomy this evening so I snapped a few shots of this Anemoi mask that I had. I tried to create a bit of drama with the lighting to give the piece a bit more of a dramatic look.

Mags.

Distorted Dan

MAY 30, 2010

This weekend was super busy and I spent most of it outside gardening. Planted the pots yesterday and today was up super early as we had a yard of topsoil delivered this morning and we wanted to get it spread before the killer sun overtook the backyard. Earlier this evening, Dan cut the lawn and as I sat on the porch drinking some refreshing water, I noticed that his image became backwards and distorted (in the glass, it appears that he's stick thin and looks like he's pushing a kids toy) but on either side of the glass you can see the reality. Weird.........

Mags.

In the Spotlight....

May 29, 2010

My Peonies have always taken the centre stage in my garden, but this is just ridiculous......I loved the way the afternoon sun cascaded down on this big bloom as if it were a spotlight......

Mags.

"Praying" For A Miracle

MAY 28, 2010

Thank you everyone who helped identify the bugs that are feasting on my lilies...I spent a good half hour last night holding a flashlight and picking the beatles out of the succulent lily leaves and crushing them (a solution presented to me via the world wide web). Imagine my frustration and disappointment when I found more of those bugs hanging off of the leaves this morning. That's it.....this is war!

I went to a reputable nursery in Georgetown this evening and spoke with the resident bug expert. When I explained to him my dilema and showed him a photo of the bastards, he led me to the bug killer aisle and explained all the different sprays, liquids and powders available. I'm concerned about accidentally harming neighbourhood animals with these solutions and was looking for something a little more "green" and easy to use. While all were "environmentally friendly", he presented me with one more option that peaked my interest. As he opened the fridge door, he handed me a bright, child's toy -like container. It was a praying mantis' cocoon. I was confused.....add MORE bugs into the garden? Mr. Garden Expert explained that Praying Mantises are exclusively predatory. Insects form the primary diet, but larger species have been known to prey on small lizards, frogs, birds, snakes, fish and even rodents; they will prey upon any species small enough to successfully capture and devour. Most species of mantis are known to engage in cannibalism. The majority of mantises are ambush predators, waiting for prey to stray too near. The mantis then lashes out at remarkable speed. Some ground and bark species, however, pursue their prey rather quickly. Prey items are caught and held securely with grasping, spiked forelegs. He instructed me to leave the "cage" in the sun and within a few days, hundreds of praying mantis are hatched. All I need to do is release them and nature will take it's course.

At this point, what's the harm in trying. It sure beats standing outside in my jammies in the middle of the night, shining a flashlight into the garden and picking and crushing bugs......wish me luck............

Mags.

Caught In The Act...............

MAY 27, 2010

After the heavy downpour and thunderstorm earlier this evening, I decided to venture out and capture some photos of the drenched garden. It wasn't until after I downloaded the photos that I noticed these two bugs going at it while the third one in the background seemed to be looking on. I'm not sure what these little pests are; however, am NOT to pleased that they seem to be destroying my lilies in the process. Anyone know what they are and how I can get rid of them?

Mags.

Namaste

MAY 26,2010

Earlier this evening, I had a one -on- one yoga session with the new Yoga instructor, Jon, at my gym. It was a 75 minute session that left me with a clear mind, feeling rejuvenated and stress free. You've probably heard that yoga is good for you. Maybe you have even tried yoga and discovered that it makes you feel better. But what are the specific health benefits can you expect to enjoy from doing yoga regularly?

Some of the physical benefits include increased flexibility (especially in your hamstrings, back, shoulders and hips), strength (many yoga poses require you to support the weight of your own body in new ways, including balancing on one leg or supporting yourself with your arms), increased muscle tone, pain prevention and better breathing techniques. The practice of yoga also helps me calm my over-active mind, reduces my stress levels and helps me become more aware of my body and the different, yet subtle ways I can move it.

Mags.

I HEART Bling!

MAY 25, 2010

Anyone who knows me knows I'm obsessed with Bling! Rings, earings, necklaces, bracelets...if it sparkles and looks pretty, I'll wear it. Now, don' t take me for a high maintenance girl here....I'm not asking for expensive diamonds and jewels (but if you insist, I suppose I would accept them). I'm ok with wearing rhinestones, pearls, shiny silver , sequins, glitter and "faux" gems. The chunkier the better as well....other than my petite frame, there's nothing dainty about me. Of course, moderation is the key....my rule is one bling item at a time. God forbid I become one of these older ladies that insists on wearing every single piece of bling that they own at a time. So with my "special" birthday just a mere 63 days away, if you're not sure what to get me, consider today's entry a big hint....I HEART Bling!

Mags.