Today while having a break from drought and heatwave , my eyes were treated to these photos.
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| Winter Kayaking |
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| Lake Geneva in Veroux , Switzerland |
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Remember Winter
There is a Facebook page I follow for the beautiful photos that people around the world take of extraordinary things.
Today while having a break from drought and heatwave , my eyes were treated to these photos.
If you would like to visit the pleasures of That's a Perfect Pic Magazine go to www.facebook.com/ThatsPerfectPic
Today while having a break from drought and heatwave , my eyes were treated to these photos.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
BC's Huge Gamble
To Anishinaabe ( one of Canada's aboriginal nations), the bear takes care of the Earth. There are 4 colours of what is called the blackbear , each representing one of the directions and qualities. The 'Spirit Bear' , Kermode Blackbear, sits in the North and represents honesty.
Slowly over modern time , this bear's land/home is threatened to extinction...that's inevitably means the bear is threatened to extinction. It follows then that 'honesty' is also threatened to extinction.
To the people in this video , honesty is what they are depending on to let others know what is happening to their land/home and them.
Slowly over modern time , this bear's land/home is threatened to extinction...that's inevitably means the bear is threatened to extinction. It follows then that 'honesty' is also threatened to extinction.
To the people in this video , honesty is what they are depending on to let others know what is happening to their land/home and them.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Friday, June 22, 2012
Sweetman's Secret Garden
My niece reminded me of a magical garden that I haven't seen in years and which she discovered recently. It is the product of a man who dedicated his time and money over years to reclaim barren waste to beauty. Please visit this site to see what has happened to this quiet love.
www.sweetmansgarden.com
www.sweetmansgarden.com
Monday, June 4, 2012
Life Returns
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| photo by D.H.Lauzon - citizen of the north |
Water and a few days shows the roots that survived fire under the protection of the earth erupting . The challenge of survival conquered . The labour of recovery begins.
Friday, June 1, 2012
Still Extreme
There are many readers who want to keep abreast of the fire situation in Northern Ontario . They are still fighting these fires, and will be for some time yet.
The rains allowed for a few of these fires to be brought under control. But the nature of 'under control' is that under the right conditions , these fires can start again. Lightning that came with the rains also started new fires. There is a long , hard summer ahead for the fire fighting crews in Northern Ontario .
If you want to keep closer to the news on forest fires and the battles fought everyday make theses sites your source of information.
Ontario Fire Ranger
Northern Fires
The rains allowed for a few of these fires to be brought under control. But the nature of 'under control' is that under the right conditions , these fires can start again. Lightning that came with the rains also started new fires. There is a long , hard summer ahead for the fire fighting crews in Northern Ontario .
Ontario Fire Ranger
Northern Fires
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Grass or Food
During the hard times of the WWII , victory gardens were a patriotic duty. Now the concept has been revived as an economic and environmentally responsible action with a healthful benefit. How committed are you to doing it right?
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| www.homesteadingsurvivalism.com |
Monday, May 28, 2012
Fallen Chick
I came across a Facebook page that has some interesting items on Homesteading/Survivalism . Perhaps you would like to take a look-see. This is what caught my attention.
It is true that Mothers don't reject their returned young. First choice should always be to return the baby to the mother if humanly possible.
I have only ever experienced that 'rejection' in domesticated animals....most particularly dogs. The thing that worked for me was using vanilla . A drop on the nose of Mom and a drop on the baby. I don't know the science or lack of science behind it , but it worked twice for puppies that mother wouldn't feed. The purpose fulfilled with no harm done. Go figure.
Perhaps the initial rejection could be put down to several reasons such as New Mother anxiety , or sensing an inability to survive that we can't see. I really have no idea. What do you think?
It is true that Mothers don't reject their returned young. First choice should always be to return the baby to the mother if humanly possible.
I have only ever experienced that 'rejection' in domesticated animals....most particularly dogs. The thing that worked for me was using vanilla . A drop on the nose of Mom and a drop on the baby. I don't know the science or lack of science behind it , but it worked twice for puppies that mother wouldn't feed. The purpose fulfilled with no harm done. Go figure.
Perhaps the initial rejection could be put down to several reasons such as New Mother anxiety , or sensing an inability to survive that we can't see. I really have no idea. What do you think?
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Animalarium: Hummingbirds
Animalarium: Hummingbirds: Carmen Cardemil Abigail Brown Tiffany Bozic Eileen Mayo , The Story of Living Things and Their Evolution , c. 19...
Friday, May 25, 2012
One Little Beaver
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| photo from Lovely Timmins , Ontario |
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Wild Fire
Over 29 000 hectares of forest are burning in Northern Ontario.
The Timmins fire has consumed 27000 hectares. Most of the focus has been on the Kirkland Lake fire ( 2400 hectares) because it has threatened people directly.
This video shows how quickly a forest fire moves . In 9 minutes it was able to jump a four lane highway under its own power. This video was taken three days ago near Timmins.
This video shows how quickly a forest fire moves . In 9 minutes it was able to jump a four lane highway under its own power. This video was taken three days ago near Timmins.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Cause: HUMAN
With the celebrations this long weekend following an extended dry period and soaring temperatures , people have been out fishing and camping and exploding fireworks en masse.
Where go the humans...there goes fire.
To date for 2012 , there have been 252 forest fires in Ontario. Most of those in the North East Region. Twenty seven active fires ( not under control ) and another dozen inactive ( under control but not necessarily out) are keeping Ontario water bombers busy . One water bomber from Newfoundland and two from Quebec are assisting the fight.
To date , 4 472 hectares have burned . If you squeezed that all together , that is approximately 17 square miles of bush ( forest) right now. 4055 of those hectares began to burn this weekend . Only a few of those fires were caused by lightning . The majority are caused by those campers , fishermen and firework celebrations. A few are caused by chain saws and other equipment used in the forestry industry.
The interactive map put out by the Ministry of Natural Resources is an up-to-date source of info for Ontario. Only one of 10 provinces and three territories...all suffering the fire scourge. It is going to be a hot, dry, terrifying summer at this rate.
Today Facebook is awash with local photos of what people are facing in Kirkland Lake and Timmins right now. This is only a small part of what forest fire can do. Much of what is destroyed is never seen by those who start them. It is only when it is on the doorstep that the reality hits home. But what of the non-human losses? Life and home...
Where go the humans...there goes fire.
To date for 2012 , there have been 252 forest fires in Ontario. Most of those in the North East Region. Twenty seven active fires ( not under control ) and another dozen inactive ( under control but not necessarily out) are keeping Ontario water bombers busy . One water bomber from Newfoundland and two from Quebec are assisting the fight.
To date , 4 472 hectares have burned . If you squeezed that all together , that is approximately 17 square miles of bush ( forest) right now. 4055 of those hectares began to burn this weekend . Only a few of those fires were caused by lightning . The majority are caused by those campers , fishermen and firework celebrations. A few are caused by chain saws and other equipment used in the forestry industry.
The interactive map put out by the Ministry of Natural Resources is an up-to-date source of info for Ontario. Only one of 10 provinces and three territories...all suffering the fire scourge. It is going to be a hot, dry, terrifying summer at this rate.
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| Photos in/near Timmins ,Ontario by Julie Huppe-Thibault |
The fire near Kirkland Lake, Ontario .
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| photo by Colleen Walker |
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| Photo by Clayton McLaughlin |
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| Photo by Mark Welch |
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| Photo by Mary-Ann Thompson |
Read the comments below for updates.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Wild Women Expeditions
www.wildwomenexpeditions.ca or type in your friend finder on Facebook
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Monday, April 23, 2012
Iceberg the Orca
First spotted 2 years ago in the North Pacific , near the Commander Islands , Russian Scientists have spent the last two years searching for this unique orca for a second look. Well they got lucky and filmed 'Iceberg' swimming with a pod of more than a dozen relatives. This time they filmed Iceberg to show the world this surprise of nature- a possible albino orca male- the only known one in existence. Of course , they'll have to get close enough to see if his eyes are pink , the next time they spot him.
These Russian Scientists are calling for the area to be put on protected status , with no commercial fishing allowed. Seems like a good idea to me...for the other species as well as Iceberg.
These Russian Scientists are calling for the area to be put on protected status , with no commercial fishing allowed. Seems like a good idea to me...for the other species as well as Iceberg.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Protecting Water
A simple but effective video on the Ecojustice Site reminds us that fresh , clean water should never be taken to mean an infinite supply . As users and consumers, we should always be concerned about how we treat the water before we consume it . And how we treat it after we consume it.
Take a minute to remind yourself why this is vital .
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Different Parts Of the Arctic
A blog I follow by Karen at www.kmfreelance.blogspot.com has really been eye opening. Recently moved to Iqualuit , Nunavut ( north east of Canada) from the North West Territories , Karen's photos and posts really show the difference between the Arctic -east vs west.
The high new mountains of the west vs the ancients worn down mountains of the Canadian Shield and other small ranges in the east.
The high snowfall in the west vs the barren Arctic desert of the east with little precipitation.
Pictures show so much and Karen's travels allow an opportunity to compare them easily.
Drop by and dig around her archives.
For a comparison of how a very new comer to the eastern Arctic as compared to one whose has been there a while check the different perspectives of the photos between Karen's and Ron's archives.
Both have uniquely different perspectives and have taught me a lot about life in the far north. Thank you to both. There is nothing as good as a connection to learn of other places.
The high new mountains of the west vs the ancients worn down mountains of the Canadian Shield and other small ranges in the east.
The high snowfall in the west vs the barren Arctic desert of the east with little precipitation.
Pictures show so much and Karen's travels allow an opportunity to compare them easily.
Drop by and dig around her archives.
For a comparison of how a very new comer to the eastern Arctic as compared to one whose has been there a while check the different perspectives of the photos between Karen's and Ron's archives.
Both have uniquely different perspectives and have taught me a lot about life in the far north. Thank you to both. There is nothing as good as a connection to learn of other places.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Amazing Ice Wonderland
When the cold winds off the Arctic Ice and North Sea blow inland , the most ordinary things turn into sculptures that no human hand can create.
This sudden , natural creation in Estonia will certainly attract people from afar to view its fantasies. There is no guarantee that it will happen again , next year.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Ice and Fire A Deadly Duo
On Sunday night the deadly nature of winter in the Arctic revealed itself.
A house fire in row housing in Iqaluit , Nunavut , demonstrated just how frightening winter can be. In the intense cold with a windchill of -50C , the water from firemens' hoses froze upon contact with the air.
The vital time is always the very first minutes . That is when water can hold fire back before it grows , spreads and devastates .
When winter is so cold as it is right now in the far north , those minutes never come. The water freezes and cannot do the job.
Water doesn't work until the fire is so large that it changes the air temperature . By then, the damage , and in this case death , has happened . Nothing can change what is done.
All that is left is a horrifically beautiful monument to the dead.
How sad I feel for the people in this community ? My heart goes out to them.
The full news article on the fire can be read at www.cbc.ca .
Ron Wassink , Iqaluit photographer has been on the ground in Nunavut. His photos and commentary capture the reality for the people who have been left homeless by this conflagration .
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| Iqaluit Fire/ CBC/Paul Moore |
The vital time is always the very first minutes . That is when water can hold fire back before it grows , spreads and devastates .
When winter is so cold as it is right now in the far north , those minutes never come. The water freezes and cannot do the job.
Water doesn't work until the fire is so large that it changes the air temperature . By then, the damage , and in this case death , has happened . Nothing can change what is done.
All that is left is a horrifically beautiful monument to the dead.
How sad I feel for the people in this community ? My heart goes out to them.
The full news article on the fire can be read at www.cbc.ca .
Ron Wassink , Iqaluit photographer has been on the ground in Nunavut. His photos and commentary capture the reality for the people who have been left homeless by this conflagration .
Friday, February 24, 2012
Footprints in the Snow
Someone Is Out There Watching
My nephew captured these tracks out near the ice fishing lake . He wanted to know which it was - Cougar or Timber Wolf . Both are active in the area but it turns out they are the tracks of the illusive Canadian Lynx .
Usually all that is seen of this animal are it's tracks in the snow -still fresh - because he was just standing there watching you before you came by and noticed his traces.
And like a wolf or a cougar , the lynx has moved far enough for you not to notice him . Yet close enough to continue watching you.
Last Friday afternoon , on our way into Mattawa ,we had to step on the brakes . A Lynx very casually came off the snowbank at the side of the highway and crossed the road in front of our car .
We were excited to see this cat at all. It is a rare thing , indeed . With no more than a glance at us from the corner of his eye , he climbed the other snowbank and disappeared into the bush.
Of course , I had no camera or video to prove it . But , I could bring you back and show you the footprints in the snow.
A Room With This View
How to break free from home...
...and how to hang on to home.
When things are not always so black and white.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
One Inuit FolkTale: Sound Tells the Story
'The Owl Who Married a Goose' animated by Caroline Leaf was put out by the National Film Board of Canada in 1974.
It reminds me of the shadow puppetry used to tell these stories to children . Perhaps inside the igloo on cold winter nights. Where the stories and tales of the past come to life.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Tanya Tagaq and the Kronos Quartet
Listen to how Tanya explains her environment to fellow musicians. How many of us can relate so intimately to the sounds in our environment ? The musical artists of The Kronos Quartet did a magnificent job using their strings to imitate the sounds and feelings of Tanya's instrument- her throat and her world .
Monday, February 13, 2012
Winter Accommodation
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| adventure.howstuffworks.com |
Such as this traditional igloo made of snow blocks.
Then there is accommodation... such as the Hotel de Glace- The Ice Hotel in Quebec... also made of snow and ice.
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| vagabondism.com |
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| womansday.com |
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| pacify.org |
For a closer look at an Ice Hotel ( January-March) check out www.icehotel.com . Tap on Ice Hotel and then Art and design in the righthand column.
This style of singing developed in an environment of ice and snow . It is a rich and intricate interpretation of life in that environment. Much more can be found by typing in Inuit Throat Singing on Youtube.
Ron's Hard Earned Photos
Ron Wassink ( ronwassink@blogspot.com) up in Iqaluit put up a great post today. He finally was able, through tough conditions , hard work and cooperarative weather conditions, to get his photos of the Northern Lights. They are spectacular.
What is really 'cool' is that Ron put together a list of steps to taking a good photo of the Aurora . If you want to take such a shot then Ron's post is essential . There is nothing like experience as a teacher.
What is really 'cool' is that Ron put together a list of steps to taking a good photo of the Aurora . If you want to take such a shot then Ron's post is essential . There is nothing like experience as a teacher.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Ice Cleats
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| uncooped.com |
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| wholesale central.com |
These seem more practical for regular use. Adaptable for all sorts of footwear. And they can fit in your pocket.
I wonder if there is a warning to remove them before stepping onto sidewalks/roads/floors that the spikes won't penetrate. Hm-mm.
When Melted Ice Crystals Flash Freeze
Our winter has been one of thaw-freeze-rain-freeze-snow .Over and Over.
The one really large snowfall was shovelled off the driveway only to be washed away with a downpour . Each subsequent small snowfall became absorbed into the cycle.
I don't like this kind of winter. I am sure there are those in more temperate northern climates who spend these kinds of winter regularly. But , I prefer the snow to the never-ending sheets of ice covering the driveway.
So far I have had several neighbours who have fallen badly. If there is a good way to fall on ice , I don't know what it is. Concussions and broken bones are not what you hope for from a walk outside. I might have to invest in some ice fishing cleats to walk in.
What gets my goat is that people think that it's funny. Go figure!?
The one really large snowfall was shovelled off the driveway only to be washed away with a downpour . Each subsequent small snowfall became absorbed into the cycle.
I don't like this kind of winter. I am sure there are those in more temperate northern climates who spend these kinds of winter regularly. But , I prefer the snow to the never-ending sheets of ice covering the driveway.
So far I have had several neighbours who have fallen badly. If there is a good way to fall on ice , I don't know what it is. Concussions and broken bones are not what you hope for from a walk outside. I might have to invest in some ice fishing cleats to walk in.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
The Snowflake Man- Snowflake Bentley
Wilson Bentley (1865-1931) was born and raised in the snow belt near Lake Champlain in Vermont . This man was the very first person to photograph the image of a snowflake. This short documentary video tells his story. A tale of how a childhood fascination became a lifetime obsession .
"...To photograph the most magnificent of all snowflakes..."
With all the technology available now, we can enjoy the beauty of a single snow crystal so easily compared to what Bentley had to go through . It had never been done before .
"...To photograph the most magnificent of all snowflakes..."
With all the technology available now, we can enjoy the beauty of a single snow crystal so easily compared to what Bentley had to go through . It had never been done before .
Crystals from the Sky and Kenneth G. Libbrecht
Most of us recognize how wonderfully beautiful , quiet and peaceful a blanket of snow over our world is. Even when we know that there is a heck of a lot of shovelling to come . If you are like me, you postpone it for as long as possible . Just so you can enjoy it a little longer.
Watching the flakes fall is mesmerizing . Individual snow crystals clumped together drifting soundlessly down onto the earth. When we catch even one alone- separate from the rest- we squint closely trying to see its structure before it disappears in our envelope of heat.
I found Kenneth G.Libbrecht's website in 2006 , I finally got to see those flakes and snow crystals as closely and intricately as is possible. Kenneth is a photographer , among others things. And he proudly shares his love of these miracles of nature for all to see.
Visit him, then tell me why this falling snow shouldn't sound like tinkling glass.
For everything you would want to know about how these crystals form and all their structures visit SnowCrystals.com
You will see some of the most magnificent photos that will make you want to study those little gems that land on your glove even more closely.
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| photo taken by K.G.Libbrecht at www.snowcrystals.com |
Watching the flakes fall is mesmerizing . Individual snow crystals clumped together drifting soundlessly down onto the earth. When we catch even one alone- separate from the rest- we squint closely trying to see its structure before it disappears in our envelope of heat.
I found Kenneth G.Libbrecht's website in 2006 , I finally got to see those flakes and snow crystals as closely and intricately as is possible. Kenneth is a photographer , among others things. And he proudly shares his love of these miracles of nature for all to see.
Visit him, then tell me why this falling snow shouldn't sound like tinkling glass.
For everything you would want to know about how these crystals form and all their structures visit SnowCrystals.com
You will see some of the most magnificent photos that will make you want to study those little gems that land on your glove even more closely.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
How Plants Warn Each Other of Danger
Oh how I wish I could see this science documentary from the BBC . Sometimes a trailer just is not enough. It is simply a teaser. If anyone out there can steer me to the full program on the internet , I would appreciate it.
How Plants Warn Each Other of Danger
How Plants Warn Each Other of Danger
Monday, February 6, 2012
Bird-Killing Buildings
Ecojustice, Canada's leading legal champion for a healthy environment , as they call themselves , pointed readers of their Facebook page to this case before the courts. Toronto's Worst Bird Killing Buildings .
We all know the fate of birds that fly into our picture windows at home . Imagine how many die on the thousands of windows that cover the high-rise office buildings in any city across the world. This blog post by Surfbirds brings it home.
By the way , putting a silhouette of any flying bird on your window does prevent impacts. This is especially important on south and west facing windows....or windows that line up on opposing walls.
We all know the fate of birds that fly into our picture windows at home . Imagine how many die on the thousands of windows that cover the high-rise office buildings in any city across the world. This blog post by Surfbirds brings it home.
By the way , putting a silhouette of any flying bird on your window does prevent impacts. This is especially important on south and west facing windows....or windows that line up on opposing walls.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
A Long Sleep
After watching Lily the Black Bear ( see the last post ) for a couple of winters , it has become obvious to me that bears are not true hibernators such as ground hogs or ground squirrels. Then why do we persist in calling them hibernators?
I discovered that like a lot of things , it is simply a question of clarifying our vocabulary . Hibernation has degrees and each degree has a name : true, torpor, aestivation and diapause . Not all of these states are restricted to winter .
The best place to find out more, laid out simply for easy understanding , is this site :Oracle ThinkQuest Education Foundation . Keep things simple and many things are easy to understand...for the most part.
I discovered that like a lot of things , it is simply a question of clarifying our vocabulary . Hibernation has degrees and each degree has a name : true, torpor, aestivation and diapause . Not all of these states are restricted to winter .
The best place to find out more, laid out simply for easy understanding , is this site :Oracle ThinkQuest Education Foundation . Keep things simple and many things are easy to understand...for the most part.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Lily And Her Winter Bed
A year later , with Hope by her side , Lily gave birth to a second cub named Faith , January , 2011. A den with three . This video shows the three of them later in that year .
All of life caught in bits by webcams and cameras for us to share with them. That's about as close as any of us could be . Now it is January 2012 and life has changed in the den.
Many of the preconceived notions about bears are dispelled very quickly when you spend time with these animals and on the NorthAmerican Bear Center website.
Web cans are capturing the lives of many different wild animals out there for us to watch and learn . There are eagles , hummingbirds , owls and who knows how many others to see . Try Wild Earth TV .
Sunday, January 29, 2012
What a Busy Space It Is!
My brother , the skywatcher , telescope -to -be -someday builder and ham radio operator is always looking and listening to the skies . Ham Radio fellows need to know what activity is going on . When and where interference will be in the world is key to being able to communicate with others. This is one website used by these radio enthusiasts. It takes the data from many key websites and conveniently puts them in one place for easy access.
Do you have a cell phone, wiifii,satellite TV,internet... then you might want a heads up if you have important things to do . Just when will be the best time to make that important overseas call...or post that blog.
Really , this is an interesting site with high science and math needed to fully understand but it fascinating . Click the links . There is a wealth of knowledge out there.
HF Propagation and Solar-Terrestrial Data
www.hamqsi.com/solar3html#hfprop
Do you have a cell phone, wiifii,satellite TV,internet... then you might want a heads up if you have important things to do . Just when will be the best time to make that important overseas call...or post that blog.
Really , this is an interesting site with high science and math needed to fully understand but it fascinating . Click the links . There is a wealth of knowledge out there.
HF Propagation and Solar-Terrestrial Data
www.hamqsi.com/solar3html#hfprop
Friday, January 27, 2012
Todays Aurora Oval
Each day a map of the top of the world is posted . It is the Aurora Oval. Can you find where you are located in the oval? Even the most distant locations will have a light show . Weather permitting.
It seems funny to have all these modern conveniences to view the Northern lights.
We used to look for the lights after those bright crisp days in winter . The best time being at midnight. We were rarely disappointed.
Of course , we could always count on someone calling on the phone..." Are you watching the Northern Lights?" an excited voice cried out. And we would always race out to see what surprises it held this time.
It's funny how you never get tired of seeing them . Probably because they are never like the ones before. Always different. Always exciting.
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| www.swpc.noaa.gov |
It seems funny to have all these modern conveniences to view the Northern lights.
We used to look for the lights after those bright crisp days in winter . The best time being at midnight. We were rarely disappointed.
Of course , we could always count on someone calling on the phone..." Are you watching the Northern Lights?" an excited voice cried out. And we would always race out to see what surprises it held this time.
It's funny how you never get tired of seeing them . Probably because they are never like the ones before. Always different. Always exciting.
Alternate Accommodation ???
I am sitting here on this icy winter day . Stranded by a coating of ice so thick that even to walk outside is a danger. I wouldn't make it off the front step quite in a manner I would like.
This is the third ice storm in three weeks. The last one put the electricity out for 10 hours . It wasn't so bad. My home is well insulated . Much of which I did when we put on a second floor a few years ago. More than enough for 24 hours of survival without an alternate heat source.
After that length of time , some winter camping would be in order. I have done that . By choice. I have always thought any survival skills are worth learning . I take any opportunity I can to learn them . So if the grid goes down , we are moving into the tipi. Besides a prospector's tent , it is the next best thing for winter camping. That is if you don't have enough snow drifts to cut blocks to make an igloo. But , I am not in igloo country , so the tipi is it.
Meanwhile , I have filled the bathtub with water for flushing .
My largest pots / water containers are filled with water for drinking and boiling over a Coleman stove outside should I need it .
The house is stocked with can goods , preserves and dried foods.
There are enough candles and matches.
The first aid kit is full and always ready.
The cell phone and other batteries are charged up for quick use.
The car radio will have to do for any updates. The gas tank is full.
I've checked with the neighbours to see if they are prepped.
Everyone is home and accounted for since no one could get to work or school this morning.
We have plenty of winter gear to put on as is usual at this time of year.
Am I over reacting ?
Not really. Check out www.theweathernetwork.com/wildestwinterstorms for a quick peek at the potential I am always prepared for. The Ice Storm of 1998 happened right here. Unforgettable. Always on our minds.
Alternate accommodation is a likely possibility.
Are you prepared for the freak storm in your area? With global warming , these massive storms are becoming more common than 'freak'.
For now ...we have to wait and see. I think I'll go cook up a few bannock while there is still electricity. You never know...
This sentiment can become yours if you are not prepared for it.
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| rideau-info.com Beautiful |
This is the third ice storm in three weeks. The last one put the electricity out for 10 hours . It wasn't so bad. My home is well insulated . Much of which I did when we put on a second floor a few years ago. More than enough for 24 hours of survival without an alternate heat source.
After that length of time , some winter camping would be in order. I have done that . By choice. I have always thought any survival skills are worth learning . I take any opportunity I can to learn them . So if the grid goes down , we are moving into the tipi. Besides a prospector's tent , it is the next best thing for winter camping. That is if you don't have enough snow drifts to cut blocks to make an igloo. But , I am not in igloo country , so the tipi is it.
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| reneschmidt.ca Terrifying |
Meanwhile , I have filled the bathtub with water for flushing .
My largest pots / water containers are filled with water for drinking and boiling over a Coleman stove outside should I need it .
The house is stocked with can goods , preserves and dried foods.
There are enough candles and matches.
The first aid kit is full and always ready.
The cell phone and other batteries are charged up for quick use.
The car radio will have to do for any updates. The gas tank is full.
I've checked with the neighbours to see if they are prepped.
Everyone is home and accounted for since no one could get to work or school this morning.
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| deathby1000papercuts.com How Much Can You Take |
Am I over reacting ?
Not really. Check out www.theweathernetwork.com/wildestwinterstorms for a quick peek at the potential I am always prepared for. The Ice Storm of 1998 happened right here. Unforgettable. Always on our minds.
Alternate accommodation is a likely possibility.
Are you prepared for the freak storm in your area? With global warming , these massive storms are becoming more common than 'freak'.
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| cs.concordia.ca Cities get the worst of it. |
For now ...we have to wait and see. I think I'll go cook up a few bannock while there is still electricity. You never know...
This sentiment can become yours if you are not prepared for it.
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| jupiterbroadcasting.com |
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
A Murder of Crows : The Nature of Things with David Suzuki : CBC-TV
A Murder of Crows : The Nature of Things with David Suzuki : CBC-TV
With the recent talk of the intelligence of crows , I remembered this documentary from a couple of years ago . I thought you might be interested. Take a peek at the crow learning experiment to see just how close to human these amazing birds are.
Another place you might like to visit is www.npr.org
If you type 'The Crow Paradox' in the search window you will see a post on Krulwich Wonders Blog about crows with a particularly challenging interactive game that puts you against crows when it comes to face recognition. I can honestly say I failed miserably. Try it . And tell me I am not a total wash up.
Another place you might like to visit is www.npr.org
If you type 'The Crow Paradox' in the search window you will see a post on Krulwich Wonders Blog about crows with a particularly challenging interactive game that puts you against crows when it comes to face recognition. I can honestly say I failed miserably. Try it . And tell me I am not a total wash up.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Aurora Max
The Canadian Space Agency has an ongoing project recording the northern lights . It is what you could call a 360 degree video cam of the sky over the north pole. You might like to visit after dark and see what is happening. Remember , you are looking right up from the top of the world.
There is also an extensive archive and photo gallery that only adds to the appreciation of one of nature's magnificent gifts.
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/astronomy/auroramax/index.asp
Well I was gone for one day and what a pleasant surprise to see so many people have dropped by to take a peek here. Thank you Emma at Nature Centre Magazine blog for sharing this blog with your friends/viewers.
I hope everyone enjoyed the view from Aurora Max. One day I hope to get that far north to see it in real time. What I have seen in Edmonton , Alberta ( the furthest north I've been during a light show) was most spectacular. Apparently it is only a small taste of the far north. Lucky for all those countries facing north.
There is also an extensive archive and photo gallery that only adds to the appreciation of one of nature's magnificent gifts.
www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/astronomy/auroramax/index.asp
Well I was gone for one day and what a pleasant surprise to see so many people have dropped by to take a peek here. Thank you Emma at Nature Centre Magazine blog for sharing this blog with your friends/viewers.
I hope everyone enjoyed the view from Aurora Max. One day I hope to get that far north to see it in real time. What I have seen in Edmonton , Alberta ( the furthest north I've been during a light show) was most spectacular. Apparently it is only a small taste of the far north. Lucky for all those countries facing north.
Snowboarding Crow
My blog friend Ratty over at Nature Centre Magazine posted a so cool video on winter sports . Crows (internationally) are very intelligent and entertaining birds . This video proves it. He has better problem solving techniques than a certain teenager I know.
Oh no! Now I just have to go looking for more intelligent crow videos to watch.
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Blogging Tips From a Blogger and Writer
I have been following one particular blog for a year now www.lifeinapinkfibro.blogspot.com
Back then she had posted about things she had learned about blogging for one year. Now she is back with a second post after two years at it. Twelve more great tips that will help any blogger , including you. As well as sharing her everyday life with readers , blogging and raising young children , this woman has written a book which is in its last moments before publication. She has a common sense way of approaching things , or perhaps realistic is more the word I am looking for.
Take a quick look. It's worth your while.
Life In A Pink Fibro
Back then she had posted about things she had learned about blogging for one year. Now she is back with a second post after two years at it. Twelve more great tips that will help any blogger , including you. As well as sharing her everyday life with readers , blogging and raising young children , this woman has written a book which is in its last moments before publication. She has a common sense way of approaching things , or perhaps realistic is more the word I am looking for.
Take a quick look. It's worth your while.
Life In A Pink Fibro
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Winter Without Light
A place I love to visit to experience the inspiration of others is Animalarium . It is one of the most beautifully presented blogs . Just the images of animals that have inspired artists worldwide . It is a feast for the eyes.
Today, the post features a little animation film from 1936 Russia called The Returned Sun by Olga Khodatayeva .
I have reposted the film here , but do take the opportunity to visit www.theanimalarium.blogspot.com just for looking at some of the most wonderful graphic art collected together for your enjoyment.
Don't forget to press the cc button in the bottom right for the English translation.
For a larger view go directly to youtube for Russian animation- the Returned Sun.
Today, the post features a little animation film from 1936 Russia called The Returned Sun by Olga Khodatayeva .
I have reposted the film here , but do take the opportunity to visit www.theanimalarium.blogspot.com just for looking at some of the most wonderful graphic art collected together for your enjoyment.
Don't forget to press the cc button in the bottom right for the English translation.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Lost on Track
I was just over visiting Ratty at the Nature Centre Magazine blog . Nature Centre Magazine Ratty posted a little winter poem that sparked a memory in me and a chuckle. Visit and read to see from where inspiration can come. On with the story that jumped into my conscious mind.
Back in the late 70's/early 80's , I frequently visited and helped where I could at The Community. This was located on a tract of land that had been purchased by a handful of young families. It was out of the way of highways and cities in rural northern Ontario...off the grid . No electricity- kerosene/coleman lamps; wood heat ; coleman stoves were the biggest luxuries. No running water- a community pump and hauling what you consumed. Outhouses and washbasins took care of essentials.
Many of the people had experience and a variety of survival skills for this kind of lifestyle. If no one had the know how , they were plenty willing to learn fast. Others however had few. In some cases common sense escaped them.
Peter was an intellectual type totally in love with the romance of getting back to the land.
One morning after a wonderful fall of fresh snow , Peter felt inspired to don his snowshoes and take a little walk in the bush ( forest ). Off he waddled from the back of his house into the woods with his romantic thoughts of being the first to place his mark on the 12 inches of soft fluffy white.
Breaking trail on deep fresh snow is no easy task. Even snowshoes sink. Every step forward lifts a load of snow. It wasn't long before the whimsey of snowshoeing in the bush abandoned Peter. And the pain of breaking trail alone with no partner to spell him off set in.
On bright sunny days in the thick bush , one's sense of reality can get confused . The affect of flickering sunlight through the branches plays tricks on your central nervous system. With the shadows and bright sunlight constantly in motion , it acts like a strobe light. It can disorient even the most seasoned.
Peter , new to the effect and labouring hard, got 'turned around' . He began to panic.Soon he had convinced himself that he was lost. He began screaming for help.
Another community member, who lived i in a house a few hundred yards down the road, heard the cries and shouted back. "Where are you?"
"I don't know. I'm lost."
"Well come over here."
" Where are you? I can't see you."
"Just walk toward my voice."
"Okay. Keep talking."
After a few minutes, Peter emerged from the bush "with eyes the size of saucers" , to quote his neighbour.
He thanked him profusely and explain how he got turned around. That he was scared and panicked.
"How can you get lost in winter? All you had to do was follow your tracks back home."
" Oh! I never thought of that."
On cold winter evenings , Peter's story joined the others in a collection of amusing experiences and misadventures of folks from The Community.
I don't think that he thinks there was anything amusing in the situation. Still...more than thirty years later.
Oh well ! I do.
By the way , Peter had been walking more or less parallel to the road about fifty feet in the bush. He had gone only a few hundred yards in distance as the bird flies.
Never go into the bush without common sense.
Back in the late 70's/early 80's , I frequently visited and helped where I could at The Community. This was located on a tract of land that had been purchased by a handful of young families. It was out of the way of highways and cities in rural northern Ontario...off the grid . No electricity- kerosene/coleman lamps; wood heat ; coleman stoves were the biggest luxuries. No running water- a community pump and hauling what you consumed. Outhouses and washbasins took care of essentials.
Many of the people had experience and a variety of survival skills for this kind of lifestyle. If no one had the know how , they were plenty willing to learn fast. Others however had few. In some cases common sense escaped them.
Peter was an intellectual type totally in love with the romance of getting back to the land.
One morning after a wonderful fall of fresh snow , Peter felt inspired to don his snowshoes and take a little walk in the bush ( forest ). Off he waddled from the back of his house into the woods with his romantic thoughts of being the first to place his mark on the 12 inches of soft fluffy white.
Breaking trail on deep fresh snow is no easy task. Even snowshoes sink. Every step forward lifts a load of snow. It wasn't long before the whimsey of snowshoeing in the bush abandoned Peter. And the pain of breaking trail alone with no partner to spell him off set in.
On bright sunny days in the thick bush , one's sense of reality can get confused . The affect of flickering sunlight through the branches plays tricks on your central nervous system. With the shadows and bright sunlight constantly in motion , it acts like a strobe light. It can disorient even the most seasoned.
Peter , new to the effect and labouring hard, got 'turned around' . He began to panic.Soon he had convinced himself that he was lost. He began screaming for help.
Another community member, who lived i in a house a few hundred yards down the road, heard the cries and shouted back. "Where are you?"
"I don't know. I'm lost."
"Well come over here."
" Where are you? I can't see you."
"Just walk toward my voice."
"Okay. Keep talking."
After a few minutes, Peter emerged from the bush "with eyes the size of saucers" , to quote his neighbour.
He thanked him profusely and explain how he got turned around. That he was scared and panicked.
"How can you get lost in winter? All you had to do was follow your tracks back home."
" Oh! I never thought of that."
On cold winter evenings , Peter's story joined the others in a collection of amusing experiences and misadventures of folks from The Community.
I don't think that he thinks there was anything amusing in the situation. Still...more than thirty years later.
Oh well ! I do.
By the way , Peter had been walking more or less parallel to the road about fifty feet in the bush. He had gone only a few hundred yards in distance as the bird flies.
Never go into the bush without common sense.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Science Daily: News & Articles in Science, Health, Environment & Technology
Science Daily: News & Articles in Science, Health, Environment & Technology
This is the home page on my computer now . A friend who likes to keep on top of things pointed it out to me over the holiday visit. I'm hooked . You will find the most current news in all aspects of science . Articles and information before it hits main media streams . Take a look , you will be surprised at how approachable science can be . Enjoy, but watch the clock. It is easy to get lost in the explorations .
Monday, January 16, 2012
The Cremation of Sam McGee - Read By Johnny Cash
With all the winter weather and associated activity , I cannot help but think of Canadian poet Robert Service when the snow, ice and wind chill me deep to the bone.
This poem in all its morbid humour is a wonderful childhood memory from one of those PTA meetings . Our grade 7/8 class acted it out for parents , complete with props, in January 1962.
I particularly like this version for the beautiful art in Aboriginal-Arctic style with all its beautiful colour and motion.
Thinking of the poem always reminds me that the storm is never as tough as Sam's friend had it. May as well suck it up and bear it.
Photographer Ron Wassink's post on yesterday's blizzard in Iqaluit , due east of Sam McGee's Yukon and little further north, gives a sense of how Sam may have gotten a slight chill. www.ronwassink.blogspot.com
Since I am a thousand miles further south , I only get to tough the cold of the far north for short periods during the winter. This past week has been a little taste...-20C with wind chills to -35C for a couple of days. What a wimp I am becoming with age!
Enjoy DrSwarly video...as well as other renditions of The Cremation of Sam McGee .
The post in http://blog.thecanadianencyclopedia.com called 'Robert Service With a Smile' has a great examination of this poem - separating fact from fiction. Worth a look.
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