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.

Under Construction

MAY 24, 2010

Another hot and sunny day spent outside. This time in the back garden. As you can see, this tiny backyard is far from being finished. Not only do we need to build a garden wall along the parameter of the garden, we need to plant the beds and pots, drag out the garden furniture and wash it down and powerspray the fence and patio. When will we ever find time to sit back and enjoy it?

Mags.

Brazen Bloom

MAY 23, 2010

It was a beautiful warm and sunny day---perfect for gardening. I spent the day tolling away in my postage-sized garden weeding, turning the soil and dragging out the ornaments and furniture. I stopped to take a break and noticed the first bloom of the season....a perfect bloom from my pink peony tree. After I took a few photos of the brazen beauty (ok, more like 50 or 60 shots), I continued on with the back breaking labour in hopes that all of my hard work will provide me with more floral treasures throughout the season.

Mags.

(Almost) Naked

MAY 22, 2010

Rather crappy day for outside photo opportunities so I decided to try some indoor shots today and goof around with different photoshop techniques....

Mags. 

Shoo, Fly! Don't Bother Me!

May 21, 2010

Was out in the garden taking some shots of my prized Peony's prior to them blooming when I was being pestered by this baby fly. As I was "shoo-ing" it away, it landed on one of the large buds and started sucking on the juicy nectar. I started singing a song that my grandmother would sing to me when we'd be out in her garden, being pesterd by flies. I think it went something like :

"Shoo, fly, don't bother me.

Shoo, fly, don't bother me.

Shoo, fly, don't bother me

For I belong to somebody".

A dumb song perhaps but as I started to sing it, the fly flew away....and the neighborhood cats started howling, the dogs started barking and hubby bolted into the house....guess I'm not the next American Idol.....

Mags.

A Unique Perspective

MAY 20, 2010

What started off as a beautiful sunny day slowly turned overcast (although the temperature remained at about 24 degrees celsius). I took this photo from the ground looking up through the sparse branches as the sun was breaking through the ominous clouds. Intensified the hues a bit and voila....my photo of the day!

Psychedelic Playground

MAY 19, 2010

It was a great evening to be out and I noticed the sun was quickly setting. I took a quick walk over to the community playground and took some shots of some of the equipment that was there. While the primary colours of the playground sets really stood out, I decided to experiment and play around with the tints and shading and ended up with this......

Mags.

Chained

MAY 18, 2010

Was a very sad and emotionally draining day today. Thought the rusty chains felt very appropriate for the heaviness I feel in my heart. I'm sure many of my friends feel the same today as well.....heavy, worn out, yet linked together to provide strength and support for each other.......

Mags.

Hockey Widow

MAY 17, 2010

Feeling uninspired, I quickly took a few shots of Guy's goalie mask mere minutes prior to his departure to yet another night of hockey. It's a good thing this isn't a scratch-and-sniff photo because the smell of this thing has a lot to be desired. As you can see, this mask is well worn and each dent and ding has a story to tell...The rusted screws have managed to hold up night after night after night of continuous play. The yellow -stained chin protector has soaked up buckets of sweat. It used to be a sport that he would play in the winter; however, over the years has become a year round event.....ice hockey, ball hockey, roller hockey, tennis -court hockey.....the list is endless. You would think that with the amount of hockey this man plays he'd be a pro goalie in the NHL....but alas, he's not...and I'll always remain the Hockey Widow........

Mags.

Sugar Rush!

MAY 16, 2010

We went to the Camera show today to "test drive" some new equipment. On our way out, we came across a booth that was set up like a candy shop. Couldn't resist taking some shots of some colourful candy.....I got a sugar rush just snapping some random shots......

Mags.

Kaleidoscopic Colours

MAY 15, 2010

Today I decided to install my solar lights into the front garden bed. As I was strategically placing the stakes into the ground, my eye was drawn to the bright colours in the glass mosaic balls as they stood out like a sore thumb in the bleakness of the overcast sky.

Mags.

Don't Toy With Me!

MAY 14, 2010

Sara, the cat, was none to pleased when I "stole" her toy away from her. She sat on the floor next to me, giving me the 'ole stink eye and meowed endlessly while I snapped a few shots of her beloved toy. Not sure what the attraction is....the kitty-saliva feathers? The scratchy twine or the jangle of the bell inside the toy?

After the photo shoot was over, I tossed the toy onto the floor in her direction. She sniffed it, rubbed her scent all over it and then proceeded to bat it away as she moved onto another favourite toy. What a finicky feline!

 

Mags.

Introducing Birdy

MAY 13, 2010

I found Birdy lying on an abandoned desk at work back in 2004. I felt so sad for him looking all pathetic, scared and lonely so I adopted him as my own. He may look all sweet and innocent, but, get a couple of drinks in him and watch out! He becomes quite naughty and bad. There have been times where I've found this party animal passed out in his own puke. Not a pretty sight let me tell you. Birdy likes to travel and has accompanied me on many of my adventures. Look for him in upcoming photos.



For those ladies who are interested, he's single, likes long walks along tropical beaches, is a non-smoker (except after a few "social" drinks) and is a great listener (he really doesn't have much to say). For more information, please inquire within.


Mags.

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Suck It Up, Princess!

May 12, 2010

A new addition to the office: A Dyson Cyclon Vaccuum cleaner. Loved the lines, deep grooves and bright purple accent colour (can you tell it's an office strictly made up of a female population?).Now if it would only work on it's own........

Mags.

Drained............

May 11, 2010

You'll have to excuse me if this photo seems a little boring, but I've been feeling a little "drained" as of late. Not sure if it's the craptacular Miserable May weather we've been experiencing but my creative juices seem to be "going down the drain" today.....I promise I'll try to do better tomorrow......

Mags.

Gastropoda ( a.k.a "snails")

MAY 10, 2010

It's Monday.  Sigh!  And today I seemed to be dragging my ass like a snail.  So when I spotted this abandoned shell in the garden, I just knew I had to post it!

Here's a fun fact about snails:

Most snails have over 14, 000  microscopic tooth-like structures located on a ribbon-like tongue called a radula. The radula works like a file, ripping the food into small pieces.

Yikes!

Mags.

Transformations....

MAY 9, 2010

We went for a hike along the Caledon Trailway path in Inglewood where we witnessed many of Nature's transformations. I took a picture of a caterpillar's cocoon with my Nikon D50 using a 300mm lens. This photo spoke to me as I can relate to this "transformation". I feel like a mere catapillar with my basic photography skills and knowledge and hope, with time and practice, I can transform into a beautiful butterfly improving my photography skills and taking interesting and unique photos.

Mags.

Tacky? You Be The Judge........

MAY 8, 2010

I was so anxious to get outside and  take some shots with my Nikon camera using a macro lens a friend had lent me but it seemed it wasn't meant to be.  Mother nature is acting up again ( I think I'll need to drag out the mittens and winter coat !) and the battery died on the Nikon...**sigh**

Putting on the ole' thinking cap trying to figure out a back up plan, I transformed the kitchen table into a makeshift "photo studio" and scoured the house trying to find something unique to shoot.  I was digging through my purse to find the standby digital camera and was pricked in the process with a red push pin that somehow made it's way onto the bottom of my bag.  BINGO!

I ran upstairs to the office and grabbed the clear, stackable container of office supplies and noticed that all of the push pins I had were clear!  My mind started racing as I thought of all of the creative possibilities there were.  After many different "poses", I settled for this one.  Tacky?  Perhaps.  But isn't beauty in the eye of the beholder?

Mags.

Wicked Spring Weather

MAY 7TH, 2010

Taken from my iPhone, this picture captures the heavy rain and the bright flash from the lightning bolt. The winds were very gusty as the cold rain came down in sheets making driving conditions a bit dicey at times. It certainly feels more like the cold November rains rather than warm spring showers. This weekend is supposed to feel quite cool.  Figures....gorgeous weather throughout the week and craptacular weather on the weekend.  Let's hope it's not going to be one of those summers........

Mags.

Japanese Pagoda

MAY 6, 2010

pa·go·da   /pəˈgoʊdə/   [puh-goh-duh]

(AS DEFINED IN DICTIONARY.COM)

–noun


1.(in India, Burma, China, etc.) a temple or sacred building, usually a pyramidlike tower and typically having upward-curving roofs over the individual stories.


2.any of several former gold or silver coins of southern India, usually bearing a figure of such a temple, first issued in the late 16th century and later also by British, french, and Dutch traders.

 
Mags.

Luscious Lilacs

MAY 5, 2010

Green grow the lilacs all sparkling with dew

Green grow the lilacs when winter is thru

Each time I see lilacs my heart breaks in two


Cause springtime is here and it's here without you


They say that it's best to forget what we had


Then it is to remember and always be said


But still I keep wondering each now and then


If ever I'll see you and kiss you again


Green grow the lilacs all sparkling with dew


Green grow the lilacs when winter is thru


Each time I see lilacs my heart breaks in two


Cause springtime is here and it's here without you

Green grow the lilacs all sparkling with dew



Green grow the lilacs when winter is thru


Each time I see lilacs my heart breaks in two


Cause springtime is here and it's here without you


They say that it's best to forget what we had


Then it is to remember and always be said


But still I keep wondering each now and then


If ever I'll see you and kiss you again


Green grow the lilacs all sparkling with dew


Green grow the lilacs when winter is thru


Each time I see lilacs my heart breaks in two


Cause springtime is here and it's here without you




----"Green Grow The Lilacs" by Harry Belafonte

Tribal Treasures

MAY 4, 2010

Willy The Wine Stopper is a treasured holiday  trinket that was passed down to me by my grandparents (well, actually, truth be told, I took it from their liquor cabinet after they had passed away in 2004).    It's a simple token that reminds me of them and their love to travel (I secretly think this is where I get my  wanderlust from).   Intricately detailed, this little guy  is originally from Hawaii and, if  I am reading the carving on the backside correctly, appears to have been brought over into Canada in 1992.  It wards any evil spirits away with it's scary/constipated look chiseled on his face while protecting the contents of my decanted red wine.

Mags.

 

DONE!

MAY 3, 2010

Tonight I was able to cross off an accomplishment on my "Life's To Do List".  I am now a Certified Interior Decorator! Three years of working my ass off, many "all-nighters" (thank God for coffee), endless cuttings  and stabbings  with sharp exacto-knives, getting high off of rubber cement (unintentionally of course!), endless trips to Curry's on supply runs and 2 am visits to Kinkos for emergency printer work and I am officially done!  It feels great!  I can have my life back now.  The only problem is......now what do I do?

Mags.

The Signs of Spring

May 2, 2010

You know spring is here when:

A) The robins are out and about (BTW did you know that there's a robins nest nestled on the crook of our downspout on the side of our house?)

and

B) The dandelions are out in full "bloom".  (NOTE:  Dandelions are WEEDS people!  Nothing irks me more than when people are too damned lazy to remove them off of their lawn.)

Mags

Looking At The World Through Different Glasses

MAY 1, 2010

Sometimes we need to step back, evaluate and look at things in a different way to really figure out where we're going.  I haven't blogged for several months now.  Did I run out of ideas?  Things to say?  Perhaps.  Truth be told, I've been caught up in my studies and just haven't had time to blog.  Now that I am done and ready to graduate, I'm looking for a new bag of tricks to occupy my time and keep my creative juices flowing.  I've decided I would like to make photography my new passion.  While surfing on the internet one day, I came across an interesting site: 365 Project.  The concept is simple: Take a photograph every day for the next year.  I thought this would be an awesome way to work on new photographic techniques while creatively showing my world and how I see things.  I may blog a little about the daily photo or may have nothing to say at all. 

I look forward to sharing these photos with you and welcome any feedback you may have (both positive and negative).

Mags.