Pandemic Parades in Covid Times

Posted on May 9, 2020 by Painter Lady

My 65th birthday began as most days do, with time well-spent at the edge of the Bow River. The vast numbers of Midges at the river meant that Swallows were feeding in droves of thousands, skimming the water over and over again. The Bald Eagle adults were feeding new youngsters on the nest and this always creates lots of magic at the river. While the day was turning out to be grey and a little chilly, I still felt that I was able to breath, relax and do a little reflecting about what my life is all about, what I value and what is important to me.

In the afternoon, on the advice of my middle daughter, I watched a couple of episodes of the The Great Canadian Baking Show. I laugh as I think about this because the last thing I am is a baker. It was relaxing and mindless television and that was okay.

Colourful gifts were appearing on my dining table. Thank you, Kathy and Val!

I walked Max…

I captured a quick photograph of our new vent resident…

…before heading over to my daughter’s for a Dragon Pearl take out dinner. The Dragon Pearl brings up so many memories for our family. It’s been our favourite family restaurant since the children were in high chairs. I miss and love all of the people who cook and serve at this beautiful little spot in Inglewood.

While any food in a take-out situation doesn’t taste exactly the same as if you are eating it in the restaurant, it was a generous and loving thing to sit down with one of three children and to eat such delicious food. After all, my grandson was sitting at the end of the table, entertaining me with his enthusiasm about the cupcakes that were hiding over in the red pan. I opened his card and he vibrated with excitement and loving smiles.

A little over halfway through the meal, he started pointing and saying, “Auntie Cayley” over and over again. My son-in-law’s eyes started shifting side to side. He was just acting weird. So, finally, I looked over my shoulder to the front yard and saw Pigeon on the yard, pressing mounted balloons into the gardens. I saw her partner, Shawn, waving and signalling. I went to the door and was excited enough about the balloons and the company when all of a sudden cars began to file past, covered in hand made banners and decorations. The participants bonked their horns enthusiastically!

Oh my gosh! It was a stream of my friends in cars! Let me tell my readers something.

On the television feel-good news stories and on social media, we’ve all seen friends and families and teachers creating parades for friends, family members and students. It looks like a lot of fun. It also warms your heart when you see it. But, to have it happen in your own life is beyond exciting. I broke out into an immediate ugly cry, sobbing uncontrollably. I felt such overwhelming love pour into my life. It would have been perfect had my son been able to be there to enjoy it, but truthfully, it was an experience I will never forget!

We celebrated with yummy cupcakes, a sip of wine, lawn chairs and more birthday greetings, reminiscing and physical distance. I loved this experience…a combined effort of love and celebration. Thank you, friends and dear family! If you wish to really make someone’s heart swell and to fill them with an affirmation of love, try throwing them a parade. These are pandemic times, so throw pandemic parades!

Uh Oh: Bird Tales From the Vent

Posted on March 21, 2020 by Painter Lady

Just recently, I’ve been publicly shamed on social media for asking for photo credit and explaining my distaste for the blast of photographs being published on line of members of the public, hoarding or standing in long lines in store environments. Just my opinion, but these photographs fall into the same category as Wal-Mart shopper photos, babies having temper tantrum photos and Fat Lady photos. I just don’t get what the purpose is? Oh…I received the explanation that publishing the photo of a profiteer who was bragging about the resale potential of a cart load of thermometers had shifted the behaviour of the big box stores and convinced them to limit sales. (all myth and absolutely no idea WHO the person was and what the product was and what the motivation was) Bull Winkle Twinkle Fairy Dust! Are you kidding? Social media photographs do not convince companies such as Home Depot to change their policies? And as a follow-up, it’s interesting that Reddit has deleted the photograph, while the legacy of hateful comments remain spouting off about Capitalism and such. Haters need to hate.

I digress. Because I spoke out about the negativity of such content being shared over and over again in formats such as Reddit and Facebook, I was labeled a lunatic who takes pictures of baby deer and eagles and was reminded that I am dumber than door nails. Too bad. I look at the fact that this person didn’t read or take in my concerns or my views on this subject. He only saw his own perspective and then BLACK OUT….the thread disappeared and the big BLOCK happened. Wow! UH OH!!! I’m telling my readers, we are living in very troubled times. Kindness is required.

And…back to the ‘baby deer and eagle photos’. It is my choice to try to retain a positive expression of social media. If I get so rattled, in real time, about something political or what I view to be a social injustice, I might post, but you will notice those discussions/threads disappear off of my social media within days. I think that what the world needs at the best and the worst of times is positivity, enlightenment and gratitude. If readers/posters want to be miserable all of the time, it’s their prerogative. There is room in the world for all of us. Just don’t block me, shut me down, silence me when I wish to share an opinion along the way.

Check out ethical practice when it comes to posting photos, specifically to shame others.

On the subject of this post…another big UH OH! Some of you have followed Tales from the Vent over the past seven years. At my kitchen sink and window, I find myself in close proximity to my neighbour’s vent. Over the years, this has typically provided a nesting site for House Sparrows, but the past few years, there have been nest wars between Northern Flickers and House Sparrows. Well, look here, what was spotted this morning at the vent. OH NO! Pigeon poop potential! It’s going to be interesting to see what happens this season. I’ll keep you up to date!

Marda Loop Justice Film Festival 2019

Posted on November 17, 2019 by Painter Lady

The day began like this…

For several years now, I’ve been attending the Marda Loop Justice Film Festival and previewed films that are very telling about events happening in our world that might inspire deeper thought and potentially, positive action. At the very least, seeing these films, opens up conversation about the complex issues facing our global neighbours.

At the festival, there is a marketplace of organizations that we can connect with, a choice of a couple of lunch items and a table of books for purchase as well as recommendations that relate to social justice and stewardship in our world.

At the Marketplace booths, I supported the Alberta Wilderness Association and purchased myself a cozy new hoodie.

This year’s films included One Child Nation by award-winning documentarian Nanfu Wang (Hooligan Sparrow, I Am Another You) and Jialing Zhang. I was left speechless and while viewing, wept in the dark.

Next, Conviction, Written and directed by NANCE ACKERMAN & ARIELLA PAHLKE & TERESA MACINNES. I enjoyed the format of this one where female inmates carried movie cameras and their bits of film were stitched into the documentary, leaving several very poignant connections to tell the narrative. While the films address issues that are very challenging and oft-times-sad, I think that it’s important to confront society’s approach to tackling problems. I’m always impressed that no matter the issue, there is a good heart(s) trying to make a difference. We must never stop trying.

An exceptional documentary titled, Because We Are Girls by film maker, Baljit Sangra, was next. This movie was particularly moving to me. What brave ladies! I was also so very happy that Baljit, as well as the ladies, were with us for the moderation of the discussion/question period. I’m not contributing a monologue about any of the topics of this blog post today…just want to document…and I highly recommend that you take any opportunity to view these films.

The final film was set in Burma. In Myanmar, which consists of 135 ethnic minorities, Rohingya Muslims do not officially exist. Despite historical evidence of their belonging to the Rakhine state, they are denied the rights of citizenship and confined to living in ghettos. Oh my goodness! I am disappointed in myself for not knowing what has been happening for the people of Burma all of these years. Such horrors inflicted upon one another! What is with the heart of humanity that sees only differences…sees only ‘the other’….and believes that power can be used to crush the other? Another genocide is revealed in Exiled.

I am so grateful to have shared these documentaries with Pat, Janet and Mary. Pat, thank you for the peanut butter chocolates, that perfect slice of fruit cake between films and that tasty bit of cheese. I know that after I have sat with the content for some time, I will have a more honest view of these issues when encountering others.

I did not wait for the discussion about the last film, but booted it out in order to enjoy a birthday dinner at Wendy’s. I thought, as I drove, that I did not want to talk about the films. I wanted to celebrate Lauraine and have fun with this circle of people who I care about so much. I think that in life, we have the opportunity to live the present with good intention…to laugh, share conversation and humour, eat good food and relish in the company of our circle. I am a blessed lady! Thanks to Dan and Wendy for providing us with the opportunity to love one another! It all began with a nice glass of wine!

The fish on plank…oh my…it was flavourful! (good story, going forward!)

The buffet! Happy Birthday,Lauraine!

Cake, made by Dan! Yummers! Make a wish, Lauraine!

Hi, Steven and Stephen! Thank you for the delicious salad!

These, dehydrated tomatoes from backyard summer garden…just so beautiful.

My life is full of blessings. I am grateful for good health, everything I could dream to enjoy in terms of my basic needs, friendships and acceptance, safety for my family. I live in peace. I pray for those who suffer the traumas and labours of a life where there is injustice and brutality, loss…so much loss. I was born into a country where I am safe. It is crucial that we focus on our nation…and not on anything that divides us. The world over should inform who we are.

Remembrance Day 2019: Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium

Posted on November 12, 2019 by Painter Lady

Yesterday I heard two presenters say that Remembrance Day is not to be confused with Veteran’s Day. Armistice Day is on 11 November and is also known as Remembrance Day. It marks the day World War One ended, at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month, in 1918. A two-minute silence is held at 11am to remember the people who have died in wars.

Like everyone else, I am disappointed that the Don Cherry fiasco stole so much from the highlights of a beautiful day remembering those soldiers in our families and in our Nation who offered the ultimate sacrifice in past wars, Afghanistan and because of selfless service.

I was really pleased about attending the commemoration at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium this year and taking in the various rituals, but indoors, while cozy warm. Last year, we headed to the cenotaph downtown and it got a bit cold at times, although it was also an amazing experience. Next year, the field of crosses.

The seats were assigned, as we arrived. This created a sense of calm and order. Beautiful music was provided by the HMCS Tecumseh Band along with Jeanette Embree, Detachment Commander, CF Recruiting Center, Director of Music, Royal Canadian Navy Reserve. What a lovely repertoire.

I thought about my Dad while singing this hymn. I used to sit next to Mom in the Protestant Chapel pews while Dad directed or sang in the choir. I felt them beside me yesterday…and I felt surrounded by my family, many who have served. My Great Uncle Joseph Gallant gave the ultimate sacrifice, as did my Great Grandfather John Moors. This hymn was a perfect one to bring everyone home to me.

While we were prompted to save our applause until the very end of the laying of the wreaths, two of our Veterans from the Colonel Belcher caused our hearts to stir and we broke into wild applause. I cried my face off at these points in the service, as well as during the Last Post. Our friend, Helena, laid a wreath on behalf of the Alberta Retired Teachers. We were very proud of her for representing us.

After the commemorative service, and as we were leaving, I noticed that Ralph MacLean, the 97 year old Veteran who had served with Canadians in Hong Kong in 1941. Please follow the link and listen to his story on the Memory Project. Through various circumstances and very quickly, I connected with Ralph’s son, daughter and grandson, author of Forgiveness, author Mark Sakamoto.

I won’t soon forget the kind hearts of Ralph’s family.

I had the opportunity to exchange quite a number of stories with Ralph and I feel that it was a huge blessing to meet him. I will be visiting him at the Colonel Belcher.

As I took my evening walk, slow around the circle because Max is ailing badly, I took in the beauty of the day, my friendships with Janet and Pat, my children, the freedoms I enjoy. I thought about my family and their huge military connections. I contemplated including their photographs here…but, I’m leaving the images of their faces and my research in my heart. I’ll leave it all up to peace…the sky…the river. I will always Remember.

Nothing Could Have Prepared Me For This Day

Posted on November 9, 2019 by Painter Lady

Today’s Facebook ‘wall’ is plastered with various news blips on the topic of the cuts happening here in Alberta. I’ve made those posts. But, rather than deleting them, I’m going to take a moment to consider what this day has actually been and been about. Only moments ago, I brushed my teeth. I stepped out onto the back deck and looked up at the moon. I am taking pause and thinking about my day…my actual day…not about that veneer, that public explosion that happens for us if we dig too deep into the chaos that is today in the news.

My morning began like this.

I sat down, with coffee, and pin pointed the Barrow in Furness address where Mary Eleanor Haddow, my great grandmother, was born in the early 1800s. I then scrolled Instagram, up on the red couch, while stroking Max’s head redundantly for almost a half hour. I dreamed about making one more trip to England so that I might visit such places and walk Blackfriar’s road and travel, again, to France to stand at my Great Grandfather’s resting place in Etaples and maybe even get myself to Ortona, Italy.

I went to my computer station, in order to print out this map and while cropping it, my sister and I exchanged a few messages with one another. She sent me a photograph of her and her three pup companions and I sent her a photograph of me and Max. I love yous were shared.

I decided that Max’s injury had been quiet enough for a few days that I would take him to the river. The air was so mild and the light, so beautiful. We took our time; it was more a stroll than a walk, but it was so incredible.I really felt huge gratitude as the day opened up to me.

I dropped Max back to the car and then went for a last look to see if I could sight any of the coyotes. I spotted several deer across the river, but no coyotes. And then, the magic of friendship was enjoyed, as I saw Jeff making his observations along the pathway. As is pretty usual, we ended up talking about cameras and such. Today I learned about the Polaroid Cube and the Zoom Audio Recorder.

Lunch consisted of a lovely little Greek Salad at home.

After doing just a few things around the house and checking in on all things political (lol), I made a quick stop at the Dollarama Store to pick up some small canvas boards. I felt a need to paint some poppies with my grandson before Remembrance Day. There was a bit of a wait for him to wake up from his nap, so over two cups of hot tea, I had a nice visit with Linda and Erin.

Then, this.

I decided to stop at the river, again, on my way home, just to see if I could make any eagle sightings. At the edge of the Bow, everything was wildly alive, although the colour was muted which contributed to the magic of everything. A loud cacophony of sound filled the air as hundreds of Canada Geese found their way to the river. I was overcome. And there, in the midst of the geese, one eagle flew assertively in and out of their crowds. It was amazing. I managed to capture a brief moment. But, let’s face it, no images were going to be focused because the light just wasn’t there. I didn’t know what to do with my feelings about the scope and beauty in that moment, so as has become habit, I snapped photographs.

I spotted brilliant white southeast on the river, and so, took a quick peek through my camera’s viewfinder to identify the white birds and happily discovered the presence of Swans or Snow Geese, interspersed with the Canada Geese. A quick and fuzzy snap and I was off and rushing to the location where I enjoyed watching them making their disappearance around the point and onto the river. Darkness was settling over everything, apart from soft pink directly west. I headed back.

As I pulled out of the parking lot, I saw Doug and Shirley Anne’s car, stopped, opened my window and together, we marveled at the wonder we had just seen. The three of us felt very blessed and it was just so nice to know that I had shared the magic with friends.

Upon my return home, my son and I headed out to the Saigon Royal Restaurant for a steaming pot of Jasmine Tea and a big bowl of Pho. I started watching for a text message from my Dad who, I knew, was on the road from Ottawa to Belleville, earlier in the day. He promised he would text, but I convinced myself that he would struggle with that as per usual and that he is well and safe and enjoying the traditions of the Mistletoe Market this weekend.

At home, Max and I walked the neighbourhood circle and then James and I watched some cop shows on his big screen.

Just a short while ago, I stepped out on the deck and snapped a few photographs of the moon. While I didn’t capture them, there were three soft rings of colour surrounding her tonight. Those colours and the lovely still air remind me of the beauty that is ours. I am grateful. And one never knows what a single day might bring.

Imaginairium: Wordfest 2019

Posted on November 4, 2019 by Painter Lady

The days are getting crisp…things are going to sleep for the winter. I’m not writing as much, but I AM reading. When this weather arrives, it’s wonderful to curl up and read. In preparation for Wordfest, I read Birth House for the second time and loved it just a much or more than the first.

Birth House by Ami McKay is right up there among my favourite books. I’ve read a lot of books by this time and so, there can never be a favourite, but there are heaps of favourites. I couldn’t afford the time or the money for a lot of sessions at Wordfest’s annual event, however, I made certain to register for two of the sessions where Ami would be speaking and I purchased her most recent book, a memoir, Daughter of Family G.

The first session was delightful, a Cabinet of Curiosities, and featured a number of writers including Ami. These authors each brought a single object to share, an item that connected with their books, process or lives. It was an intriguing grouping, covering a big array of topics and styles of writing. I picked up a few books that night.

Anthony De Sa shared a GI Joe camo jacket. He shared a heartfelt story that I will not soon forget about Christmas at home and a loving gesture from his mother. I don’t think there was a dry eye in the place. Anthony is writer of Children of the Moon. This is now in my collection and I am looking forward to reading it. Eloquent!

Marina Endicott shared her first Greek book. It was a book that her Greek Teacher gave to her. “Wherever you go, there you find your teacher’. Her teacher, she shared, was her first home.

Cecil Foster writes for his grandmother. His talismans are ideas. As he writes, he takes pause and contemplates what might make his grandmother laugh or what might make her cry. The material, he described, doesn’t really matter. The idea matters. He lifted a glass at the conclusion of his presentation and made a toast to his grandmother. His most recent book is on my ‘to read’ list, They Call Me George.

Michael Christie’s new book, Greenwood, is also in my collection. He shared with us the story of building his new home on Galiano Island and about how, during a huge storm on the family’s first days in the house, blew over a tree that crashed into the family Subaru. He shared a slice/coin of the big branch that caused the destruction. His reading caused me to weep.

A magnificent novel of inheritance, sacrifice, nature and love that takes its structure from the nested growth rings of a tree, Greenwood spans generations to tell the story of a family living and dying in the shadows cast by its own secrets. With this breathtaking feat of storytelling, Michael Christie masterfully reveals the tangled knot of lies, omissions and half-truths that exists at the root of every family’s origin story. (From McClelland & Stewart)

Ami McKay shared something her mother/grandmother said, “All of the flowers that our blooming in our todays are to be enjoyed because of the seeds that were planted in our yesterdays.”

Terry Fallis was very animated and shared several items via Powerpoint imagery; his fountain pen collection, a framed image of Robertson Davies and an old typewriter that he keeps close by.

And finally, Anosh Irani shared a map of one district in Bombay. His story and the poetic gifts that he shared that evening, were beautiful. I purchased his book, The Parcel.

What a tremendous evening. Thank you, Wordfest.

The next day, I had the opportunity to hear Ami McKay talk about her family, in detail, and her struggles and strength as both connect with her life. The initial disease suffered by my brother was Colorectal Cancer and so I was very interested in what Ami shared about her family’s journey with Lynch Syndrome. I really appreciated the time that Ami took with me personally as I found myself first in line to have my books signed by her. This was an inspiring book talk and I am presently 100 pages in to the book, Daughter of Family G: A Memoir of Cancer Genes, Love and Fate

I met Aracely outside of the Memorial Branch library. Aracely is the moderator for the book discussions that I enjoy at the Fish Creek Library once a month. She is smart, fun and very generous. She is also in love with reading! I was swooped up by her enthusiasm and headed over to the Central Branch for the Humble the Poet presentation. Am I ever glad I went! Such a timely and inspiring talk! While I didn’t purchase it that evening, I’ve added Things No One Else Can Teach Us, to my list.

Good to meet dear friends, Diane, Bill, Catherine and Bob, sitting directly behind me.

Wordfest never disappoints. I hope that next year I have it in my schedule to take in even more of the book talks. They open up the mind, the heart and put you in touch with other big time readers! Thank you, Wordfest!

Esker Foundation is a Power House!

Posted on October 21, 2019 by Painter Lady

Some weekends, in Alberta, there is NO LIMIT to the number of events available to me, given that I’m interested in live music, books, art, theater and dance. This past weekend was one of those for me. I really wanted to see Billy MacCarroll’s Aftermath opening at Jarvis Hall, but will have to attend on my own. The Glenbow opened its Sybil Adrews: Art and Life and ExtraOrdinary Objects exhibits. The Bee Kingdom were hosting an open house…didn’t make that despite all of my good intentions. A big one, Dave More: A Painter’s Gift, guest-curated by Mary-Beth Laviolette, happened in Red Deer on Sunday. I’m happy to know that The Edge Gallery Calgary location is hosting an exhibit of David’s works, Hidden Within, opening on October 26 1-4. And as I write this, I am reminded that I would love to see the recent works by Michael Corner that are on exhibit at The Edge Gallery in Canmore. So…that list should demonstrate the dilemma. And I know that it is only a beginning…we are so blessed in this province.

Did I mention that at the same time Wordfest was happening? More on that later.

If you haven’t, try to make space to visit the Esker Foundation’s current exhibits and if possible, attend some of the engaging and inspiring programs. Presently, Jeffrey Gibson: Time Carriers and Nep Sidhu: Divine of Form, Formed in the Divine (Medicine for a Nightmare) creates a rich dreamscape of texture and voice for the viewer. The work feels like a bridge between space and time, contributing to a bigger knowledge/experience of culture and collaboration. I find these exhibits intoxicating.

Almost soothing, the piece, Kablusiak: Qiniqtuaq located in the project space is best-seen in the night time as it becomes animated by the warm light of the projection and its complexities are more successfully captured.

On Friday evening, Jeffrey Gibson generously moved through a brief history of major bodies of work, beginning with the Punching Bag series and continuing to talk about abstraction, collaboration and garments. It was very kind of Jeffrey to take the time to chat with us beyond question period, given that the garments and drums were being de-installed for the next day’s performance. From Esker, Karen and I drove to cSPACE via a random path selected by Google Maps. (another story) We were able to enjoy the work of artist and friend, Louise Lacey-Rokosh. I met Louise some years ago at Gorilla House and I have enjoyed following her work.

I was blessed to have the opportunity to also enjoy Jeffrey Gibson’s performance piece, To Name Another, a piece that left me in tears three different times. Did I take note of the words that most moved me? No… I think that the complete engagement in the sound/movement experience took all of us to a deeper place. And while this might sound a little strange, that’s okay.

I continue to have a sense of wonder about the work that is on display and am looking forward to learning more about Nep Sidhu’s work and process.

Thanks to my sister-friends, Karen and Linda, for sharing in parts of this immersive journey with me this past weekend. I enjoyed the yummy Ruben sandwich on the Spolumbos patio with you, Karen, on a perfect autumn day. And Linda, I’m so happy that we had a chance to share deep fried dill pickles and a terrific Blues Jam and the Can.

A few images follow…I regret that I am missing the titles of the works below. I will backtrack and complete the information as I collect it. Initially, I have posted photos of some of the titles available that are linked to the subjects or interests of the artists presently on exhibit. I really appreciate how the Esker always provides a reading list.

Two Ladies and a Little Boy Go to the Lake July 23, 2019

Posted on August 9, 2019 by Painter Lady

As Steven’s second birthday comes around, I realize that not only is my house needing a good clean, but I’m really behind in my archives. I’m not writing as frequently. I’m at a stand still in a lot of ways. I’m spending hours and hours at the river’s edge. Here it is August 9, 2019 already and summer is whizzing by! I will always look back on this staycation with gratitude. I’ve been through a lot this past year and even some days during summer, I have experienced hardship and sadness as traumatic events lose their crinkles in my heart and flatten out where I can see them. One after another, the memories of dark times are, in fact, smoothed out and my life of nature, art, friendship and love are able to create a blanket over them.

So, it was a fine morning on July 23, when Linda prepared us a nice picnic lunch and we three headed to the lake. This is a year of construction vehicles and diggers and such marvelous observations at the neighbourhood school and on every roadway. Even the back alley holds its charm.

I am grateful for Linda’s friendship and I treasure every special moment I am able to observe the world with my grandson. Summer 2019

At the river, the family of Bald Eagles is observed with great respect and awe. I view these with such love and feel that the narrative of this little family fills a hole in me, a cliche maybe, but I feel it is so and I sort of understand now why people use it. Otherwise, it’s difficult to articulate what goes on when you lose someone special.

While of very poor quality because of distance, I post the photos of the two adults side by side here because these two are the last two photographs I captured of Mr. and Mrs. together. This is their favourite perch.

That I Would Be Good

Posted on May 10, 2019 by Painter Lady

Throughout my brother’s illness, I kept thinking…and often said to him, “You were always enough, John.”

I don’t know why I had those words on my heart. And I spoke them often.

I spoke to one friend about my inclination and she said to me, “You, your brother, I am more than enough!”

With the death of one of my great mentors, Jean Vanier, this past week, I listened and listened again to his past recordings. I read over things that he wrote. I remain completely convinced by his view that love exists when we embrace those who are most vulnerable.

A baby born to its parents is put into a position of utter trust and vulnerability. It can do nothing to earn or keep or appreciate your hard work and your giving heart. The infant child can only receive love. To be ill in body or mind, or to be dying, leaves a person in the same vulnerable state of being as was once experienced as an infant. This coming and going of humanity leaves all participants in a place of tremendous sacredness/holiness/grace and belonging.

As I consider my own challenges, I need to remember that I am good, for the simple reason that I am. I belong in a circle of belonging.

Sometimes the world can tell us differently. Sometimes our own heads can try to convince us that we are ‘not enough’. There are days when we act like squirrels, gathering in ‘stuff’, thinking that somehow that ‘stuff’ will make us safe/secure/better. There are days when we forego time with our families so that we can work harder and earn more so that we can provide more, when all our families needed most was our presence. We need to reflect upon that presence.

To each of my readers, “You are good.” Celebrate your wondrous design. Have a dance. Listen to the words to this song. Have a great weekend. Thanks, Hollee, for sharing birthday dinner with my family. Thanks to Cayley, Shawn, Erin, Doug and Steven, Linda and James for Dragon Pearl feasting and Crave cake! Thanks, Steven, for the jazz invite in the middle of the week. Thanks, James for attending with your ol’ Ma. Thanks, Wendy, Tammy, Karen, Lauraine, Jas and Dan for Sunday jam at Mikey’s. Thanks, nephew for almost daily “I love you”s by text. Thanks, Dad, for 5:00 Skypes. Thanks, Val, for connecting with me in real time and in dreams. Thanks, Erin, for restorative Yoga. Thanks, Kath, for studio painting time, bird watching, dog walking, teaching big kids and small. Thanks Mary, Pat and Janet for tea and snacks. Thanks, Facetime Friends, for all of those online messages. Thanks, John, for everything you were for me in life and how you inspire me now. It’s been a good week. I love you because love never ends.

That I Would Be Good

Alanis Morissette

That I would be good even if I did nothing
That I would be good even if I got the thumbs down
That I would be good if I got and stayed sick
That I would be good even if I gained ten pounds

That I would be fine even if I went bankrupt
That I would be good if I lost my hair and my youth
That I would be great if I was no longer queen
That I would be grand if I was not all knowing

That I would be loved even when I numb myself
That I would be good even when I am overwhelmed
That I would be loved even when I was fuming
That I would be good even if I was clingy

That I would be good even if I lost sanity
That I would be good
Whether with or without you

Songwriters: Alanis Nadine Morissette / Glen Ballard

Adam’s River Salmon Run 2018

Posted on October 18, 2018 by Painter Lady

I headed out on the ninth of October on a bad-weather day, first to meet up with friends and next, to drive early-morning to the Adam’s River, north west of Sorrento in British Columbia. Days have passed and I’ve been unable to sit down in order to write a post. I’ve asked myself, ‘Why the hesitation?’ To some degree, I feel like my words can never contain the powerful meaning this experience had for me. While the numbers of returning Sockeye did not match predictions at the time, given that 2018 is a ‘bumper’ year, it didn’t matter to me. I have spent half of my lifetime wanting to be a witness to this journey and with all that is impacting various species globally in the present, I jumped at the chance to go.

I wish to contain the archive of this experience on my blog. However, I will note right from the beginning, that there are no words for the experience of standing on rounded river stones and looking out to see the brilliant red backbones of so many fish, struggling against current, with an instinct that insists somehow that they must go home.

To begin…a short video.

On the evening before my firstborn’s wedding day, family members gathered in my studio…not all at once, but a few at a time. My brother Cliff owns and operates a salmon charter business out of Comox, British Columbia. His company is called Cliff’s Chinook Charters. More than anyone, he has taught me about salmon populations and what variables contribute to a healthy population.

My brother wrote a piece that he called, The Salmon’s Plight onto my studio wall. These words have been embedded in a few different paintings over the years since and every time I read them, I cry a little…for the memory of the salmon and for the memory of my brother. Given our family’s military history, we live in every part of our great nation. I miss my brother very much.

I was blessed to ride along with Cliff and catch a couple of fish with him, my father and my daughter. It goes down as one of the most beautiful times of my life.

Bad road conditions took us all the way to Lake Louise and then it seemed that the skies opened up and the mountains became crisp against a light grey sky. Gratefully, Pat shared oatmeal cookies that were so buttery that they melted in my mouth. After a stop in Golden to enjoy our packed lunch of turkey sandwiches and garden carrots, we were off, on the last leg of the journey.

We headed immediately for the Adam’s River Salmon run.

At this point, I’ve decided to post some photographs…if I write anything at all, it will be heartfelt. Years ago, having completed a 30 day Outward Bound course, I accepted myself as the artist in the group…that person who was taking in the sensory experiences, but not necessarily bound to the physical achievements and the orienteering. My head was in the clouds. Consistent to that, I was completely plugged in to this earthy, fishy, visual encounter with these amazing salmon during their upward surge.

I highly recommend CLICKING on some of the images of the salmon…they are just so absolutely beautiful…powerful…mesmerizing.