Return of Spring

Day 121




Social Distancing #42



Today is the last day of April and tomorrow is the start of a new a month, which I feel is full of hope and promises.  These days I feel as though everyday is similar to the one that had passed. 
With a new month there are new beginnings. For example, the buds on the trees are opening to new leaves. The grass is getting greener, and people are planning to plant their gardens and flower boxes. 


 As I was out and about I had noticed a slight green haze in the hill side! The trees are budding and soon with the warm sunshine we will have green leaves on the trees! I made a quick stop at a local park to photograph that exciting phenomenon! 

Return of Spring

As we say farewell to April and a  Very Happy Birthday to my brother, Ernie!!!  :)  We get ready to welcome in the month of May.  

In medieval and modern Europe they celebrate the 1st of May with the return of Spring! We will do the same by us getting the gardens ready to plant and enjoying a glass of wine on our deck.



Welcome Spring! 


 Until Tomorrow! 

Jewels 

"Here's to New Beginnings!"

Flowers

Day 120


Social Distancing #41



I have a Haworthia Fasciata growing in my house! Oh no! you say!

 Another name for the Haworthia Fasciata is Zebra Plant. It was a tiny plant I found at my local grocery store. 

This little plant originated from South Africa. In the 1600's Europeans found this species and took it back home to become a house plant in their grand living rooms. 

Zebra Plant

Rosettes from the Zebra Plant

This South African succulent rarely blooms indoors! Mine has! I am pleased to see these tiny flowers on this interesting plant. The Zebra plant which will grow up to 6 inches and she already has 2 babies! 




Wishing everyone a wonderful day!


See you very soon!

Jewels 

" The human body is 70% water,so basically we're cucumbers with Anxiety!"

Plastic ~Abstract

Day 119



Social Distancing #40



To photograph plastic you need your camera, polarizing filter, a white screen on your computer/laptop or tablet and some plastic. 
How did I know this.... Thank you Pinterest! 

 

Plastic Party~ Abstract

Plastic Party ~ Abstract

Plastic Party ~ Abstract Black back ground

Plastic Party Abstract ~ plastic wrapper on computer screen

This is a fun way to recycle that plastic party items! What other items can a person find on the ground or around the house that you could create a similar effect? 



Thank you for taking a look! Comments are welcomed! 


See you soon!

Jewels 

 "Creativity is making Marvelous out of the Discarded."

 

Birds

Day 118


Social Distancing #39


I think its wonderful to see so many birds on our front lawn. Watching these little ones is quiet entertaining. At first there were only a couple, and now there are more, they had shared the secret to other birds.  They fly back and forth from the shrubs next to our drive way to the feeder and onto the lawn to pick up the fall out! 
I enjoy sitting on our front deck with a coffee while I am watching and listening to my feathered friends.

 

Don't sing with your mouth full

Maintain that pose!

This bird looks like one of those 'Angry Birds' from the movies.

I was hoping to get a photo of all the different birds that come and visit... I will keep trying!



Thank you for taking a look! 

I will see you tomorrow. 


all the best to you and yours.



Jewels  



"A bird doesn't sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song."
M. Angelou

First Tiny Blossoms

Day 117


Social Distancing #38


Glory of Snow, Chionodoxa forbesii.  These tiny bulbous perennials belong in the Lily family and originated from Turkey. They appear in the early spring when the snow has barely melted off the flower beds.
The tiny blue flowers on these plants are about 3/4 of an inch across and the plant may grow up to 6 inches tall.  


These tiny plants are the first flowering plants in our yard. I am always excited when I see these tiny blue and white flowers. I can not help but get down on my hands and knees with my camera to capture these lovely tiny blossoms. 

First Tiny Blossoms ~ Glory of the Snow~

It feels like we have had a long winter... we are enjoying seeing the buds on the trees and green life poking out of the ground! 


Thank you for taking a quick peek at today's photo challenge!



Until tomorrow! 

Jewels 

"Spring heralds the return of the sun's warmth, the renewal of life, and the reappearance of green and color everywhere."

River View

Day 116


Social Distancing #37


They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. When we look at a view, a painting, or maybe a photograph we all see something different. Some of us enjoy what life lays in front of us and some of us expect something more.. maybe something to dazzle our senses! 



When I was taking this photograph a person passed by me and commented that there really nothing to see.. the pelican, swans, ducks were gone, nothing special here.

River View

Today's photo is for you to enjoy... just as it is. 


I will see you very soon.... tomorrow! :)



Jewels 

 "Somewhere on your journey don't forget to stop and enjoy the view."

Childhoon Toy

Day 115


Social Distancing #36



 Childhood toys, childhood games, your own childhood memories, remembering  your own child playing, and now watching and participating in the grandchild's childhood games.
 Those memories are filled with laughter, fun, water, dirt, toys, games and much more. 

The one toy that was so much fun and never boring was 'blowing bubbles'. Just a container with some dish soap, a straw or we made our own wire bubble blowers. We tried to see how large we could blow our bubbles. When the bubbles were released, we would watch to see who's bubble soared the highest or the farthest. Then counting the seconds until yours popped.. hoping your bubble would last the longest!

Childhood Toy ~ blowing bubbles

Blowing Bubbles

Trying to photograph a bubble at the same time as blowing it up.... you only have 30 seconds if you are lucky!

Then Pop!

I hope everyone who reads this does one thing today. When hand washing your dishes and if no one is looking... go ahead and blow some bubbles! 


Thank you for taking a look at my photos! I did have fun!


I will see you very soon! 

Take care

Jewels  

Secret #20~ Bubbles makes me Happy~ 

Oil Abstract

Day 114



Social Distancing #35



They say Oil and Water do not mix, water molecules attract each other, and the oil molecules stick together. Water molecules pack together and sink and the oil floats on top. Then you add some dish soap and that helps them both mix and stay together. 

Oil droplet before I added dish soap

Can you believe some photo artists actually sell this kind of work? That is something I would never of dreamed that could happen to me. A couple of these would make a great wallpaper for my phone or computer.

Stirred the oil,water and dish soap~ photo under the glass dish

You just need a few things from the kitchen to amuse oneself! 

I had a lot of fun playing with my Oil Abstract! I always love to download my photos and see what my camera Edie and I had created! 




I was only going to post one photo.. but I had so much fun and wanted to share a few more! I hope you enjoyed today's photo and blog!

Sending all my family and friends best wishes!


See you soon!


Jewels 

 'Let Art get you through the Dark."

 
 

Experiment

Day 113


Social Distancing #34


When you think of experiments, we think of those science classes in high school. What about those failed smelly things we dragged out of the oven!?   With all those failures we still like to experiment in the kitchen. I like to try new recipes and sometimes creating my own dish. Some of us even tried experimenting with a new hair style and or color. When we do something out of the ordinary and someone gives us that 'look', we say.. its an experiment!




Today, I was experimenting ... spray bottle with water, beads, glass tray and my macro lens on my camera.... and this is the result of my experiment.

Experiment ~ water drops ~

I did try this several times... how do they get those water droplets so round and so perfect? 
Then I did some research.... and I will re do this shoot in the near future. If it works out, then maybe I will share my secret with you!



 I do like the colors and how they blend together. I love the look and feel of these photos. 

 I am going to do another experiment tonight... trying a different/new recipe for dinner. 



Thank you for taking a look at today's photograph!


See you very soon!


Jewels 

"Stepping out of your comfort zone and trying new things is the best way to grow."

 

Lunch Time

Day 112



Social Distancing #33



Lunch Time! As I yelled out the door..and the Pedde Fleet would coming running from all parts of the house and yard. Sometimes, well most times a friend would be asked to stay! 

What would be for lunch..  Tomato Soup and Grill Cheese Sandwiches, Sandwiches on home made bread. Left overs ... if there were any... 
Now lunch is a quick snack, a bite to eat and carry on the rest of our day. I miss the lunches with the family.. it was a noisy food filled affair... I miss going out for lunch and trying new places to dine...I miss going on a road trip and having a lunch or snack on the way to where ever we are going... 

Lunch Time for the Canada Geese

 What did you have for lunch today?


Thank you for taking a peek at today's photograph!


I will see you soon!


Jewels 

"Food is all the sweeter when shared with friends!"

It is not a flower....

Day 111



Social Distancing #32


Today I was out on a hunt for the first flowering bulbs, Crocus and Snow Drops. As soon as the snow has melted off the flower beds these early flowering bulbs pop right up. In my own flower bed, my tulips are 3 inches up out of that cold ground.
 

I spy ~ can you find him ~

As I was taking some shots of a garden at our local park, I was debating whether to go  right into the flower bed and take a closeup of some Crocuses.... I was surprised to find something other than flowers. He stayed close by... his mate as up a tree nearby and I thought I could hear babies.
  
 

Magpie

He sat and let me take his photo. I think that he is use to us humans at the park and possibly leaving some leftover picnic for him to enjoy.
He is not a Snow Drop or Crocus, but he will do for today's photo! 



I hope everyone has a little surprise in their life today.. something that makes you stop, watch, admire and then carry on with your day.



I will see you tomorrow!!


Jewels 

"I always wonder why birds stay in the same place when they can fly anywhere on Earth?"

 

Sun light through the Trees

Day 110



Social Distancing #31


Sometimes when the news broadcast is over whelming, when you are missing your family, your friends and you are looking for that 'great' photo you head out to a nature park.  You hope to be somewhere where there are less people and more nature. I am looking for a photo, time with my love, time for me, time for us. It is Sunday, I could be more wrong!

 With everyone needing to isolate or social distance.. the nature trail parking lot is full of parked cars. People are all walking the trails seeking some exercise, fresh air, somewhere to enjoy a coffee, a cold drink, and a snack! Its is wonderful to be able to get out and enjoy our beautiful trails.

Sunshine through the Trees

Look what we found!

The second photo looks like it could be advertisement for a granola bar! I find it very disheartening... we live in a fascinating beautiful world... and this is how we treat our home...

I guess the wrappings, the empty drink containers are heavier to carry out than when they are full and taking them on a walk? 



It was an wonderful walk... I took several photos.... and came home feeling alot better!



Thank you for taking a peek at today's photo!

We will see you tomorrow!


Jewels 

(ps. we collected about $1.10 in bottles on the trail! )

"It is all about finding the calm in the chaos!"

My Projects

Day 109



Social Distancing # 30






I think keeping my hands busy while enjoying the comforts of my home is important. Doing the extra Spring Clean, baking goodies for our tummies and to freeze to enjoy later. This is the perfect time to try new and favorite recipes. This is keeping me focused, busy, productive and happy and full!



Over time I have created a yarn, fabric, pattern, and other needle craft stashes!  Now that I am grounded at home, I think I should be able to work through my stash of goodies and create some great projects!



Did I make a dent in my yarn stash... hardly! 
What will I do with the projects I have created? A couple for me to keep, and the rest to give away. 
What will I be working on next? Not sure... I will have to wait and see, I never know what will inspire me.

 

My Projects

My Project List:

11 Knitted Dish Clothes
24 Painted Rocks
2   Novels, Read.
1 Crocheted  Summer Tote
3 Crocheted Boho Bags
2 Crocheted Market Bags 
2 Knitted Sweaters for Grand Daughter
Currently Knitting another sweater for Grand Daughter 


In between these activities, I am always working on my 2020Vision Photo Challenge.. which some days are a challenge. 



Thank you for taking a quick look at today's photo! 


I hope you are keeping busy and happy.


Until next time.

Jewels 

Crafting comes before Housework in the Dictionary

As it Should!  

P is for.....

Day 108


Social Distancing #29



On of my favorite foods (I have lots of favorites) is Potato Salad. There are many different kinds of Potato Salad recipes. I think each  country of the world has their own unique Potato Salad! I would love to give them all a try! What a challenge! 

A couple of summers ago, a group of us had 'The Potato Salad Wars' Each person would create a meal and their favorite Potato Salad must be included in the meal. Each one was different, and unique, tasty and delicious! We are hoping that this summer we can continue the PSW! 

Potato Salad

Schwashisher Kartoffelsalat (Swabian Potato Salad) is one of my favorites. As a child growing up this salad was on our dinner table. We were sad when the bowl was empty! With the warm weather approaching we will have many day dreams of BBQ'S. Yes, this Salad will be on our dinner table.  



Thank you for taking a peek at my photo!


I will see you very soon!

Jewels 

"A recipe is a story that ends with a good meal." P.Conroy

 

Architecture: My Town~Clock

Day 107


Social Distancing #28



Our unique looking clock tower is located downtown Prince George, BC at the Canada Games Plaza. During the winter months the plaza is outfitted with an out door rink for public skating, and transforms to a water fountain in the spring and summer months.
 In this location there is the Civic Centre, Two Rivers Art Gallery, the Public Library and one of our swimming pools.   
There are many festivities held throughout the year at this location, but, it is quiet at the moment.

Clock

I feel that this photo tells it own story about the 'Times' we live in today... Everything is on hold and I feel like things are upside down and not knowing if we will every be the right side up again. 

 or

Maybe everything in this little bubble world is safe, sound and protected like I wish I could keep my family and friends.

I hope you are all keeping well!

Until tomorrow

Jewels 

"Time is not measured by clocks but by moments. Create wonderful moments"

 

Tree Stump

Day 106


Social Distancing #27


I wanted to share with you a photo I had taken and posted on Jan.27.202 on Day27 and a photo I had taken today almost a month into the 'Spring' Season. 

January 27.2020  ~Winter~

April 15.2020  ~ Spring~

The sound was incredible  as the ice was breaking off and splashing into the river!
 
Today the temperature on my walk was 9c which made me excited cause it is almost shorts and capri wearing weather!! 


 Thank you for taking a look! 


See you tomorrow! 


Jewels 

"I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order." J.Burroughs

Stripes

Day 105



Social Distancing #26


 We just celebrated Easter while we are Self Isolating, Quarantined, and Social Distancing. I do know how hard it is not to be able to celebrate special occasions with out your family and friends. I hope everyone enjoyed the day as best as to be expected and made some memories to share with your families.

 ~

I am pleased that my four year old Amaryllis is flowering at Easter time instead of Christmas!  I have 3 bulbs, one just finished her flowering, and now its my four year olds turn to sparkle and shine!  

Stripes

 My plant has 4 flowers, and only one has these white stripes! Very cool and unique! 


Have a wonderful day!!

Until tomorrow!

Jewels 

 "Where flowers bloom so does Hope" Lady Byrd Johnson

First Signs

Day 104


Social Distancing #25

 Answer to yesterdays Easter Goodie I Spy photo is 17 items! Thank you to everyone who checked out the photo and counted! 

Its beginning to look a lot like Rhubarb, 

All pinkish green and tall stalks like celery.

Its flavor very tart

with out sugar it gives you a start.

The apple of my eye plant

makes the perfect pie plant.

The puckery-tart fruitiness

makes you say 'My goodness'

 First Signs of Rhubarb

I am dreaming of delicious Rhubarb Crisp

with Ice Cream.

or maybe even muffins fresh from 

the oven.

There is Rhubarb breads for 

breakfast

Rhubarb sauce and even

Rhubarb BBQ Sauce to slather 

on your Chicken.

Rhubarb Jam

and Rhubarb Lemon aid to drink

the hot sun away.

But lets not forget

home made 

Rhubarbcello!!

Oh that Rhubarbcello!

 I am dream dreaming about a 

Rhubarb Summer!  

With still 2 feet of snow in our backyard... its wonderful to see the signs of new life!

Thank you for taking a peek! 

See you very soon!

Jewels  

 "From Little Things, Big Things Grow"

Happy Easter!

Day 103



Social Distancing #24

 Happy Easter! Wishing everyone a beautiful day! 

Happy Easter!

I know this year it is hard not to be together with your friends and family... So the Easter Bunny has created an I SPY Easter Egg Hunt in my living room!

 

I Spy Easter Egg Hunt                     

Can you find the Easter Goodies?? LOOK Carefully! Let me know how many you see! 


Have fun, and Happy Easter to you all!


See You Tomorrow!

Jewels

Easter Egg Hunt is proof that your children can find things!

Am I a bit silly or crazy?

Day 102


Social Distancing #23



The question of the day is (you don't need to answer) am I crazy with the Social Distancing, bored outta my head, cabin fever has set in or just being a wee bit silly and having some fun?

During the last couple of months, we have noticed a tiny tunnel running from the steps to the deck approx. 8 feet in length. We have seen the squirrel use this tunnel to get to the bird seed that is available. 

I have peered inside, and taken a photo (always hoping that the squirrel would be there!). With the snow melting and now some of the Squirrel Cave has been exposed, I thought I would send my team, John and Elton out to explore the Squirrel Cave.

Entrance to Squirrel Cave

 

The decent

Ready to Explore

The cave is very cold and icy... be safe guys! 

I had some fun with this.. I hope this blog and its photos gave you a wee  bit of a chuckle! 

See you tomorrow!


Take Care!


Jewels 

"To Laugh at yourself is to Love yourself" Mickey Mouse

Baking

Day 101



Social Distancing #22


I like to bake, especially for special occasions like Easter, Birthdays, Mothers Day, Christmas and  also just because! I enjoy experimenting and trying new recipes as well as baking the family favorites. 
While we are Isolating and Social Distancing, I get to play more in the kitchen. I like collecting recipes, so, now its time to try them out and see which ones will be keepers and which ones will get deleted!


Today, I made my traditional Butter horns and with the same dough I made a batch of Cruffins. There was a request for Hot Cross Buns and  then I decided to make a batch of Cinnamon Buns and a Braided Raisin Bread. 
The house smells wonderful and I can hardly wait to do some taste testing!! 

 

Cruffins

Cruffins and Butter horns

 

Hot Cross Buns

Hot Cross Buns and Braided Raisin Loaf

I sure am looking forward in doing a taste test.... I may be skipping dinner all together!


Thank you for taking a peek at today's photo challenge!


I will see you very soon!

Jewels 

"Nothing says HOME like the smell of Baking"

Use a photo and add a quote

Day 100

Social Distancing #21



I have a Photoshop program installed on my computer but I have not used it all. I thought while we are  Social Distancing and in Self Isolation this may be a great time to learn, play and figure out Photo Shop. 

I did manage to make a public service poster and one fun photo with a quote  using this program.  

Photo with a quote!

 I took this photo yesterday... I was zooming in focusing on the duck... and poof he was gone! I thought it would be perfect for this quote! 
 

Public Service Poster

I think this duck is a Wigeon....

 I was sad to see so much trash in the parking lot of this park...and bottles floating in the pond. I am not going to go into a huge rant about people and trash. I don't think it will do any good...cause those people who litter do not read my blog...just saying!
I wonder what our future holds for us... between Covid-19 and the on going Litter Bug Syndrome?



I hope everyone is keeping well!



See you very soon!


Jewels 

"Laughter is timeless

Imagination has no age

and dreams are forever"

 Tinkerbell