Warm, breezy, summer greetings from sunny Manitoba!
I have been enjoying life and summer so much that I haven't been spending any time in Mylot land lately. With our cold, dark winters Manitoba residents spend as much time as possible outside. My hubs David and I decided to vacation at home this year and go somewhere during the winter. We have worked for a number of years to landscape our property and create a lovely little retreat in our own back yard. I have included a photo of our 'outdoor living space.'
We have a hammock, two water ponds, a shaded courtyard area, barbecue, deck with sitting area, swing and firepit. There is a community swimming pool right across the street from our house and a a lake about 15 minutes from our home where we can swim and canoe.
After moving from the hustle and bustle of our home town Winnipeg in 1994 we realized that the peace, quiet of our day-by-day experience is what many seek out on the weekends. David and I are self-employed and have the luxury of setting our own schedules and during the summer we are inclined to work less...and relax more.
So we are loving summer and life in general. How about you? What have you been doing lately? I understand those living in other parts of the world may be experiencing something other than balmy, sunny weather...and that is of interest to me too. For those who drop by and comment it will be good to catch up and share some news...whatever that might be.
Cheers,
Raia
[question posted by Perspectives]
responses and comments:
It does sound like you have a nice atmosphere where you are at. I am sure it does get pretty cold up there during the winter so I imagine you enjoy your summers. I am a bit further south than you! It is quite hot and humid here and we have been a little dry lately. I have been a stay at home mother and my husband works. We do like to barbecue every once in a while or sit out on the deck. I like to sit outside in the evening sometimes and enjoy the cool air if there is any! Other than that we have just been trying to keep cool.happy [bamakelly]
Hello and thanks for dropping by to share your summer activities with me. Yes, it does get cold...but our long, warm days with 16 hours of light do make up for it...although we tend to forget that in the midst of our bitterly cold, dark days in January. But for now...it is "Ahhhhh...breathing space in sun time." Sitting on the deck is one of our favorite things too. We eat a lot of meals out there and love the ambiance. Birds chirping and flying around, wind touching the hair and cheeks, scent of flowers in the air...hmmmm better cut that out or I'll be logging off and not finishing my goal of responding to every response before logging off! So hope you and your family manage to stay cool...and keep on soaking up the atmosphere of balmy days. I have included another photo of where we sit on our deck. It was taken in the Fall of last year. We have the downstairs area and a screened in one one top. So when the bugs get back we move up to the bug-free zone and sit and survey things from there. Cheers, Raia [Perspectives]
Summer thus far has been great here in the Dunning household. We haven't done any vacationing this year, but we did go camping out at the lake nearby, which was a blast. I guess one could view that as sort of a mini vacation..lol Though that is about all we have done this summer, since my husband's work hasn't been giving him much time off like they usually do over the summer months. We are hoping to get in one more camping trip before summer is over though, so keeping my fingers crossed he'll be able to get the time off for it. [jeweledbluerose]
That is most kind of you to do, it's not often people will open their homes to other individuals they have merely met online. That farmer and his wife would have most likely let us stay within their home too, if it were bigger, but the way it was built, was really only built for two to get by with. Maybe have one or two visitors at the most, but it got quite cramped when a family of four would enter the premises. The camping trip went wonderfully, though Mom and Dad forgot that school started last week here (oops), so we had to write a note, so the kids would be excused from school and have their school work sent to our house. We went to Mammoth Cave National Park and stayed in the nearby camping grounds. We went swimming just about everyday, and when we weren't swimming, my family and I would go off on little hiking adventures. On my birthday we had a couple friends meet up with us there and we made it a day of bbq'ing and swimming. Was great just to get out of the house and not have anything to worry about. When the film gets developed I will be sure to post pictures of our trip. The cats seem to like their enclosure and seem to not even notice that now their world has been fenced in even more. I completed the sign dedication yesterday and it's now hanging on their shelter. Just waiting on my husband to get home so he can take pictures of me with the kitties, near their shelter and the sign. So I won't have a billion to pictures to upload..lol! Hope all is going well with you! happy [jeweledbluerose]
Hi Raia, I'm happy that you are experiencing some warm sunny weather after the turmoil of the past winter. We too have been enjoying some sunny weather but with probably more rain than you've been seeing. As you say, some parts of the world haven't been as fortunate, so I must not complain. Blessings. [Pose123]
Wonderful to see you here again. Hope all is going well with you and your family. You certainly had a lot of looses the last time we spoke and I have though of you and what you were going through while I was away. Yes, it is great to have balmy, warm weather. It has been great and the garden is flourishing. The nights cool down and makes it comfortable sleeping. I agree we have nothing to complain about when we see what is going on in other parts of the world. An 'attitude of gratitude'...yep, it works all the time. Take care and continue to enjoy the summer...it goes by very quickly. Raia [Perspectives]
The weather is great here in Ireland. Actually it's a little too hot, but that's preferable to being too cold. Yesterday I was walking in the park and as I was walking past the river I thought it would be a nice idea to feed the swans, so I went to the nearest shop which is run by Polish people and bought some Polish bread. The swans seemed to enjoy it. Today I bought some regular Irish bread and the swans enjoyed that too. It's nice that swans don't discriminate when it comes to bread. lol You have a nice garden. It must be really relaxing to sit out there. I can see why you're spending less time on myLot. [crispeater]
I agree with you about how time flies. Speaking of that I am sorry it has taken me three weeks to respond to your latest post. I plus rated the photos and commented about how much I enjoy seeing your pictures...and no, I am not tired of them! As I mentioned to you I love birds and it is a pleasure to hear about your special connection to them. How interesting to learn that swans can live up to 50 years. As I mentioned in my comments on the photo...I hope you...and these beautiful birds are both around for at least 50 years. I noticed the new photo on your Avatar...a nice one of Mr. Music Man...strumming and humming. Wishing you continuing joy in your creative pursuits. Hope your neck is feeling better and that you found a more suitable suiting arrangement. As the holiday season draws closer David and I are enjoying it immensely. The house is decorated and we are planning to send out our yearly "newsletter" from our little home in the country. Expect to see one in the next few days because you are a valued Cyber Pal...a fellow Irishman like my hubs is. Take care and we will keep in touch. Best regards, Raia [Perspectives]
HI Raia, haven't seen you in a while! Now I know why..hehe... I have been having great weather here in calif also. Nice & sunny daily. Went to New Mexico for vacation, enjoyed it so much I am moving there in 3 weeks! Great to hear from you. Enjoy your weather while you have it!!Lori [dumblnddzzy]
I am pleased to know that you may be leaving California...but not Mylot. You are much appreciated member and I always enjoy our exchanges. I will check out your site and do my best to keep informed about your changes in residence and how you are doing. Thanks for your warm regards to David and me...much appreciated. They are coming back to you. Raia [Perspectives]
It has been really cold here since the 21st of June. Much colder than previous winters. It even did snow one morning... but it melted as soon as it hit the ground. Early this week... all my water pipes were frozen. Another month to go... and things will start to get warmer hopefully. Unlike Canada and Europe... the winter only last 3 months in Australia. [Aussies2007]
No, it is not good...sorry about that. The drop off could have happened when David was doing upgrades on my computer. There were a few other e-mails that when missing during that time. Cyber space...lots of e-mails must be floating around out there. Oh well, good to be back in touch...when we don't hear from you...I will be back. I value our exchanges and friendship. Thanks for the prompt response...and now we know! Raia [Perspectives]
Hi Raia here in the uk the weather has been a bit of everything June was a funny month but this month it has been lovely and the sun has been out full belt and the evenings warm now and then though we have had the odd cold rainy day but so far am enjoying the sun and warmth for as long as I can your friend littleowl [littleowl]
Oh..my goodness what a beautiful acknowledgment...I am touched and thank you. It is rather amazing to me the way we develop such a strong 'felt sense' of each other in our exchanges here. Let us hold good thoughts about a meeting in person...and I am sure if it is meant to be the Universe will augment our shared intent. Warmest regards and gentle hugs, Raia [Perspectives]
you know almost all about the weather here ,as I have told ya these over 100 degree days are just pool days. now the problem is to keep it clean and clear we have done every thing we can think of and it still turned green on us the other day but we worked with the chemicals and got it clear again but there is sand in the bottom no way to really get it all out even with the vac for the pool that we have so back to the drawing board to figure out what chem . we need lol. Also as you know went to family reunion and had a ball. Other than that we will stay in our back yard for the summer ,the front I only go into to water the flowers and most of the patunias I planted out there has died on me we dont know why. guess I will try again next year and do something different with the soil. HUgs and blessings to you bothw00t [Lakota12]
Nopt the heat here as they can get in the pool and clean and keep cool they just dont want to do anything at all . Not even in the house with the A/C on [Lakota12]
I love summer but I don't like it when it's really hot and humid out luckily in our yard we have alot of shade trees so when Im out with the kids I usually sit in the shade I have to rally watch because I have asthma [christylynn]
Heat and humidity...whew...makes me perspire just saying it. I agree with you that combination can be very draining...especially with asthma or lung problems. My mother had chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and like you the heat and humidity was hard on her. Good to know you have shady areas in your yard so you can be outdoors without causing your body and distress. Thanks for dropping by...I appreciate your interest and participation in my discussions. Look forward to more! Take care of yourself, Raia [Perspectives]
So far I have had a busy summer. The grandsons have been spending lots of time with us. They will be moving soon a few hours away. I am not happy about it but there isn't anything I can do about it. I keep telling myself at least its not across the country. I have also been busy with my mom, last week we went on a long drive, to a flea market. It was 3 hours away and I did the driving. We had a nice time and she was happy. We used to go to an outdoor flea market every year. The one we went to this time was indoors, with AC, fans and benches to sit and rest. Since my moms heart condition has gotten worse she sometimes gets dizzy spells and has to sit, she also can't be out in the sun for long periods. I don't do well with the heat neither. Today has been much nicer, its cooler and less humidity. I get uncomfortable when it gets in the 90's with high humidity. A few days ago, my DIL, grandson and granddaughter went to the county fair, we all had a nice time there. I like spending time with the kids. My backyard is a haven for kids. Lots of toys, a large wooden swing set, a basketball court and the best part....a pool. Its hard to believe that its the last of July already, it seems that winter just ended. It will be back all too soon. We have started harvesting fresh vegies from the garden, that is always such a treat. We have also down some outside BBQ'ing. I have an ice cream maker, I have been giving that a work out. My little cookie monster is an ice cream monster too. All in all its been a good summer so far. Its nice seeing you again, take care and enjoy the rest of the summer. [Polly1]
My goodness what a fun-filled summer you are having...that is wonderful to hear Polly. I love flea markets, garage/yard sales and thrift stores too. When our little berg held their yearly garage sale my friend and I went around together...and did we ever get some great things! I do my best NOT to buy new if I can find things as seconds. I think it is the combination of my Scottish ancestry and the recycle/reuse and "live more with less" philosophy David and I endeavor to live by. Whatever it is your flea market experiences in a cool place with benches for your Mom sounds like a great experience. Country fairs are also something we enjoy so we have that in common as well. Wonderful to know you are surrounded with the love and support of your family and that your grandchildren have such a positive role model in you. I wish you and yours a lot more summer cookie munching and ice cream pleasures. They are great treats...and I like them too. Lots of similar interests here...but that isn't surprising. Friends do tend to share and care...and we do that in Mylot land as well. We will keep in touch...thanks for your consistent support of all my discussions. I value that...and you sooooo much. Raia [Perspectives]
Our summer it wonderful! Not that we have gone anywhere or done anything, but the tempts have been great for just getting out in the back yard all day and having fun! We are having a summer like I remember when I was a kid. So we have been swimming, playing games, and staying out in the backyard till it's late telling creepy scary stories to one another. [sunshinecup]
Big oops...in my enthusiastic response I accidentally put I am happy to 'wee' you here. I am not sure whether it is kinky...or funny...maybe a bit of both. Sorry...maybe it was a big..."WEEEEEE...Sunshinecup is back. Who knows? So long for now, Raia [Perspectives]
Glad to know that you and hubby are enjoying this wonderful summer. I can certainly understand how you would choose to stay outside as possible after such hard winter weather. I love the hammock and specially the water ponds - water running always makes me feel so good and peaceful:):):) THen after that the fire pit would make my day as well LOL I"M thinking roasted marshmallows every once in a while heheheh TO continue brightening my day,you go ahead and talk about like with the two most important key words: Swimming and canoing. Oh my, that just sounds like Heaven to me. I'm sold, packing my bags and moving to Manitoba... wait.. wait a second.. I also have that here hehehe just haven't had the chance to do it lately. Well, in any case, you guys are all set for the most wonderful summer time, and I'm so glad for you. What have we been doing.. well not much. MY daughter started working and has been doing as many hours as she can because she bought a car and wants to have enough money saved now for when she works less during school time. MY soon was really sick last month but is well know - thankfully because it was a big scare - and is now starting to do what all 15 year old kids do - lazy around, play video games, go outside to play soccer and basketball with his friends etc. etc. etc. HUbby is working for which we're grateful of course:) ANd I have been taking some time to really rest, I've been sleeping a lot - sleep is one of the things I lack the most during the time I"m working -. MY mom is here with us, and it has been nice although there have also been a few things that have to be compromised and talked. THe main one being that she is a person that needs a lot of personal attention and is used to a different kind of life from what we have here. She is used to go out every day, do some window shopping, buy whatever she likes, then sit down at the cafe or restaurant and have her lunch.... she's used to go out basically every weekend to some nice place and sleep in a nice hotel. We can't really do that. And she is missing it. We did go out a few weekends but only stayed out for the two days once = last week when we went to kingston's thousand islands and then to Montreal - . We took her to some places close by, some she had already visited before and didn't really pay much attention to. In any case she needed to understand that our life here is not what it was back home and we can't do the same things. To top it of, I am not a person that likes to go to a mall and spend my afternoon there - I get a headache after a bit more than half an hour. - and I don't like to window shop. WHen I need something I go and buy it, but if I don't need anything or can't afford it I hate to go around and look at it LOL Oh well.... I"m still very happy that she's here and I hope that she will stay until November, but from what I can see, she might decided to go a bit earlier. Have a beautiful saturday, Raia [arkaf61]
Hello again,I just noticed your credits and that you are pushing towards your 5,000th post. Boy have I been inactive compared to you. As I recall we were not that far apart last year...good going!It is great to be back in touch and chatting with you again. I do appreciate our kinship and our chats always feel so open and comfortable. From the sound of your itinerary your and your whole family are enjoying summer and each other. What a blessing that your son's health has improved and that your daughter is working. Have the problems you were having with her changed? Yes, the running water and relaxing around the fire pit and sky watching are wonderful things to have...right outside our door. I have included a photo of the smaller pond...the other one is huge compared to this one. Some years we put fish in them and them move them to indoor tanks when the weather turns. Interesting that we both enjoy swimming and canoeing among our other commonalities. How wonderful for you to have your mother visiting. My Mom passed away 3 years ago in April and I miss her and our fun gal-pals times together and probably will for the rest of my life. So enjoy the time you have...no one can ever quite replace the bonds we have with them. Hopefully, she will stay until November. My thoughts and well wishes are coming your way. Raia [Perspectives]
Hello, my dear friend. I too have a countryside retreat in my own back yard. I can walk up, beyond the hedge and I'm in a different world. I love to sit out in the Summer, especially close to sunset, but also during the day, when the blackbird comes to chat with me. The robin is also present and sits close by, picking up the gossip! lol. However, I still like to wander further abroad. I've been to an annual barbecue this evening which I've just written about and which was great fun. Then, next week, I plan to go to the Lammas festival in Eastbourne which is held over the Lammas weekend each year. There's a parade, Morris dancers, folk music, metal music and a pagan craft fair, and I intend to make it there this year, hoping the weather holds. In October, I'm taking a short break in Suffolk, which will be a nice change. It'll be my first time in a very historic part of England and I'm looking forward to that. Otherwise, I get up and go as the mood takes me. I've done a lot already this Summer, and I'm enjoying every minute. Brightest Blessings my friend and soul sister. Love to you both. xxx [Darkwing]
Hmmm...yet another example of how aligned we are. I did not know that Raven was a power totem for you. Perhaps it was your Raven that whispered in my ear...post that photo...Darkwing will enjoy it. They are very smart birds...and when we lived on our acreage on the lake a few years ago they could be heard sending out 'warnings' of intruders in the forest. Sitting high atop the trees they are striking birds alright. We are having some much needed rain here today...so I am catching up and enjoying it! Warm hugs and caring regards, Raia [Perspectives]
Hi we are not doing much for Summer. Staying home since we can't afford to do anything. We have plenty of stuff that needs done here anyway like fixing up our trailer, working on our yard, and taking care of our pets. Anyway glad you guys are vacationing at home. I guess we are too except I have a lot of work I have been doing every day. Enjoy your vacation! :) [cwilson26]
Good to hear about your writing...let me know where you are being published and I'd love to read more of your work. Isn't it great to be paid to do what you find so creatively satisfying anyway...I love it! Writing can be lucrative and when I think how much I earn compared to many who work for minimum wage I feel very fortunate. If you ever end up in North Dakota...we are not far from the American border. Let me know it would fun to meet in person. Take care... Raia [Perspectives]
Wow--Perspectives just love that photo and your backyard does look like a bit of paradise to relax and chill out in. I too am hoping...no correction "planning" to have a home and would absolutely love to have as much land with a lot of trees as possible. I've always been a nature gal and feel my soul is alive when I'm surrounded by nature's beauty. As for what I've been doing..still keeping busy as usual, with writing articles, my novel...but have to admit to slowing down a bit more and not at my frantic pace that I'm normally at. I haven't been mylotting as much either but actually have taken time to browse about on ebay which is something I haven't done in ages....and got a number of bargains lately....Since I subscribe to James Arthur Ray's website I get updates on what's going on...and sometime back there was an actual invite to watch his Harmonic Wealth DVD on the computer for FREE...the trick? One had to register at a clear and specific time...my designated time was 8:00 in the morning....a time which I confess I'm still asleep..LOL. So I guess I must have "programed" my mind...I wanted to be up in time to register. Well, as you can guess...a few minutes before that time I was wide awake, rushed over to the computer and registered...LOL. The free showing was good anytime of the day once registered..So just think I was able to watch the Harmonic Wealth for free that way....but then...I thought...I would love to have a copy. So last week at ebay there were a number of the DVDs available...at a steal from the original price..and of course I won it...I also won Louise Hay's wonderful "You Can Heal Your Life DVD also at a bargain and watched it last night...she is SOME woman! I've had her book for years. Things are falling into place for me....I got that IRS check refund issue resolved and am using the money to buy a lot of necessities...and I won't kid you...it feels GREAT to have money to burn and spend...there might be some other prospects there to go after and claim monetary wise which I want to go after next week. It's almost as if whatever "resistance" or negative energies that had been around me have lifted somehow...and I know you know what I mean on that score..LOL [pyewacket]
Hi Pye! I am truly happy to hear from you. Even when I am not Mylotting my mind wanders in your direction and I think of you in the warmest way. It is uplifting to read that things are improving for you in a variety of areas. I appreciate hearing about your prosperity finds...at reduced prices. I read somewhere many years ago that if we affirm that we get things at 80% less...or free it works. David and I have done that for the longest time and we truly did get a lot of things that were...greatly discounted or free. Whatever changes you have implemented in the past year appear to be coming to fruition...and I trust they will continue. You really do your work Pye and deserve all good things. I am also delighted to hear your sense that the resistance and "neggies" have lifted. Perhaps you know who is finally out of synch with your energy field and has moved to a different and more compatible resonance within her own realsm. You know the expression...those who do not grow with us eventually grow apart. Interesting outworking...thanks for sharing it. I also appreciate your positive feedback about our 'sacred space.' David and I spent long, laborious hours getting it to this point...and other than weeding it is very self-sustaining. We have a veggie garden and a variety of fruit trees that nourish our bodies as much as the flowers, shrubs and trees feed our spirits. I have included another photo. This one is of the courtyard David built so we could have some much needed shade. The area is covered in climbing vines (Hops and Virginia Creepers) that come back every year. Speaking of bargains...the white chairs and love seat were castaways someone left at the dump. We found them when we were going up to drop things off. Just one of many 80% or "free" gifts form the Universe! It is such a pleasure catching up with good friends like you. I have a little more time right now and can take the laptop outside so I will be more included to spend time here. Take care Pye...and may the good flow you are in continue to expand and bless your life in all ways that are for your highest and greatest good. Raia [Perspectives]
nice to see you here again. hugs hugs hugs. your summer is just here and our summers are finish already though most of the time it still feels like summer for we only have two seasons the hot and rainy season. yes! it sounds boring lol. but during summer here we didnt have much outing for as you know the budget will not allow. my chilfren just got bored and just watch tv. now the school season started last june so they are quite busy [roniroxas]
Hi friend, It is good to be here and catching up with you and others. I can appreciate when the budget does not allow for extras. With the price of gas many here are vacationing at home as well. With the situation in the Middle East that may continue indefinitely. Oh well, helps us become resourceful and maybe even get back to basics where we all find ways to enjoy ourselves without the same financial costs involved. Even when we are not chatting I think of you and your kids and send you a lot of love and light. Raia [Perspectives]
i would like to go to mahone bay and lunenburg, right here in my home of nova scotia. i've never been to either of those historic fishing towns, so i'd love to see them. i'm interested in photography and i am sure there are tons of opportunities there for sightseeing, picture taking, etc. i hear there are some fantastic walking trails along the shore as well. however, with the cost of gas rising, i am not sure i will get there this year! they are day trips for me..i could probably be there in an hour or two...but filling up my tank costs 60 dollars! [ashleecook]
Friends of ours went to Nova Scotia a couple of years ago and loved the scenic beauty of the country. I love taking photos and it would be great to visit there too. Your reluctance to fill up the tank with today's prices is something many of us share with you. We are much more aware of travel costs these days. As I was saying to the gal in the post before yours...we may as well get accustomed to it...doesn't look like it is going to improve in the foreseeable future. Could you car pool with friends to take your day trips...that is an option my hubby and I take advantage of with our friends. Just a thought. Enjoy the rest of your summer! Raia [Perspectives]
I think you are enjoying your summer's pretty well there but here in India it's rainy seasons ,it rains a lot here during this seasons,i love this season because it brings the nature in it's true color,greenery and freshness seems to be distributed in every part of the environment.It effects the work here too,raining all the time,but who cares ,its awesome. [cyberbucks]
I love your little retreat at home. I am still on medical leave, at least until November (injury to wrist), and I am now not concerned with getting back to work til next spring, since all the seasonal workers are going on leave at the end of September this year (government budget restraints). So I've been spending most days at home. My s/o has bought me several hanging baskets, and potted plants, so I have a little 'garden' on my back porch now. I love sitting out there with my dog. She loves to lay out there when I'm on my laptop. We have been having rain showers come through in the afternoon and evening the past few days, but the weather has been unseasonably cool for this time of year. We are going for a little day trip tomorrow, to a place near here called Hawk Mountain, there is bird watching look out there, I'm hoping to get some awesome pictures of the hawks and other migratory birds. Glad to hear you are having an enjoyable summer. [palonghorn]
Hello again, Good to hear from you and have updates on what is going on. From the sound of it you are quite settled in. I commented on your lovely hanging baskets. Your back porch sounds quite idyllic too. Great to have a respite where we can enjoy the outdoors without leaving our homes. Your bird watching trip sounds great. If you have any special photos please post them. If you do a discussion about your "photo finds" please send me a PM so I can check them out. Hope your wrist continues to heal and that you take good care of yourself. Warm regards, Raia [Perspectives]