Photo Challenge Day # 177

Day # 177



If you know me, then you know that my house and my yard has had a frog/toad invasion. They have arrived as gifts from family and friends, and on occasion I even purchase a frog or two during my travels. Of course my idol is Kermit ! 
So, I was very pleased when walking along the river we had found this little guy. I love his camouflage . 

Day # 177 "Toad or Frog?" 

I was told that the frog is the great communicator, so… what about toad? I do know that Toad and Frog are great friends ! (children's book) 

I had a fun day! I hope you did too!

See you tomorrow with Day # 178! 

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 176

Day # 176


It turned out to be a beautiful morning.  So I put on my walking shoes, grabbed my camera bag and venture out to one of the local trails.
I just love the smell of the forest. I always take a deep breath and fill every pour. I love being near water, or in the forest, helps me stay healthy. 
Today I notice many different types of mushrooms/fungi! I think I may need to find a book and learn all the names. 

Day # 176 "Corel Mushroom"

I was so surprised to find 2 Corel Mushrooms, ( we think that is what they are called) located next to each other. They were a bit larger than the mini watermelons.  They were amazing! My first find…something so different. 

If you know what they are actually called, please share.

See you tomorrow with Day # 176
Ps…can hardly wait to go back and see what else we can find.

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 175

Day # 175


Today was a busy day, with pouring concrete,  then after a rain break we laid out a new stone/brick path. Then there was the dinner preparation.  We made these amazing hamburgers, smashed potatoes, salad, and all the fixings.  It was a fun dinner with 3 out of 5 kids, grandkids, even a couple of four legged ones here for dinner. 
With everything that is going on, its nice to stop and see what is new in the world. This morning, I notice water droplets on the nasturtiums in my flower beds. I am glad I had stopped for a moment and take some pictures.

Day # 175 "water drops" in B & W

Day # 175 "Water drops" side view 

I am not sure which one I like the best. Which one do you like and let me know! 

 

See you tomorrow with Day # 176!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 174

Day # 174



Kim adopted Athena in June of this year. Athena was so thin. Seeing her today looking happy, healthy, her coat is shiny soft thick. When Athena looks at Kim….you see love. 

Day # 174 "Kim & Athena" 

There are reasons why people, animals enter into our lives. We don't question, we accept. Kim and Athena met at the right time, the right place. Now there is unconditional love, loyalty and a strong bond between them. In time a very strong friendship where Athena will look out for Kim too. 
(If you could of seen Athena before!)

See you tomorrow with Day # 175!! 
Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 173

Day # 173



Not only do I have grandchildren, but, I also have children who have pets. So, therefore they too are part of my family, my 4 legged grandkids! 
For the next couple of months, I will be cat sitting for my daughter Tracey. 
Today was Kissa's (pronounce 'Keesa') first day at Grandma Julie's house. Kissa checked out every room, every corner, under every bed. 

Day # 173 "Kissa" 

After an afternoon filled with adventures. Time for forty winks on the lawn chairs outside.

See you tomorrow with Day # 174!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 172

Day # 172



One of the challenges on my photo challenge list is Black and White photography. As you know, I like using my macro lens, and taking photos of the flowers in my yard. So, today, I am using my macro lens, and shooting in Black and White. 

Yellow echinacea bloom in Black and White 

Day # 172 "Black and White, Sunflower bud" 

 I do love the effect of the black and white photography! The term I may use is artsy ! I see details more clearly, compared to the coloured photographs I have taken of the same blooms. 
Do you remember when all pictures were developed in black and white?  I think I will play with either taking pictures in black and white or editing the coloured photos in black and white for my challenge and see what effects I get. 

See you tomorrow with Day # 173! 

Photo Challenge Day # 171

Day # 171


On my Photo Challenge List, is "Self Portrait" & "Faceless Self Portrait".  Like I have said before, I am more comfortable behind the camera than in front. I am not like the ladies in my family who take wonderful "Selfies". 
Today I did a play with the camera.

Faceless Self Portrait "A"

Day # 171 "  Faceless Self Portrait of Julia"

I found a way to hide behind the camera and take a photo of my self at the same time. I do have more challenges with self portraits!

I hope you are facing your challenges today! 
See you tomorrow with Day # 172! 

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 170

Day # 170 


They walked and talked, sharing stories about themselves, their past, their present. They hang onto each and every word not letting each other go, not wanting to go. He leaned towards her and give her his kiss….their first kiss…. 

Day # 170 " First Kiss," Colour of Geranium

We all remember the first kiss, the first kiss you gave your new born child, your first boy/girl friend, your spouse/partner. We treasure these memories…..
I look at these flowers first blooming, a little late this year…but, never too late for that "First Kiss"

Thank you
See you tomorrow with Day # 171.

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 169

Day # 169



While you just having your first morning coffee, a large pot was the stove, inside were the following items:

- red from the vine
- something of many layers
- strong-smelling pungent bulb
- green,red,yellow or orange shaped bells
- Adam and Eve's first fruit
- a little something from Haiti
- something from the mines
- a touch from the West Indies 
- a cup of something sweet  
- and finally an equal portion of CH₃COOH
Stir until your stomach rumbles, and your taste buds salivate, which is about 3 1/2 hours.  


 

Day # 169 " Ketchup"

My first attempt, and yes it tastes as delicious as it looks! Next batch I shall add..... hmmm.....

Happy Sunday everyone!

Jewels 

 

Photo Challenge Day # 168

Day # 168



Today was a slicing, dicing sort of day. We made Stewed Tomatoes, and Salsa. The house smells wonderful, and on the counter there are filled jars. I just love filling my pantry with food items that I lovingly prepared.  My other other favorite activity is baking up a storm for the deep freeze. Such a treat to pull out bread, or cinnamon buns to eat on a Sunday morning.

Day # 168 " Peppers and Tomatoes"

 After we finished canning, we took a walk along the river. I had noticed a lot of berries, of all types. The bears will have a feast! I don't often complain when I post my blogg, I try and keep things light and up beat. But, I must say this. We humans are pigs. We live in such a beautiful area, and I see trash, trash and more trash
any ways..just saying.

I hope you had a wonderful day, we did. 
See you tomorrow with Day # 169



Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 167

Day # 167



The gardens bounty, whether you enjoy the gift from the garden right now, or preserve them for later. Today, was pickled beans. To nibble on during the winter festivities, or as a garnish for "Caesar's" ! 
 While I am canning and pickling, I am already planning my gardens for next year…. where and what I shall plant. 
But, for now I am thumbing through my cook books to decide what else can I preserve?

Day # 167 " Pickled Beans" 

Enjoy today…. embrace the moment. 

See you tomorrow with Day # 168! 

Jewels 

 

Photo Challenge Day # 166

Day # 166

While in my flower beds, I had notice this Clematis  puff ball. I must of missed enjoying another flower blooming!

If you look very close, you can see the tips of this puff ball, it reminds me of my close up photograph I took of a feather…..

Day # 166 " Clematis Puff ball" 

Life is interesting when you take a close up look!

See you tomorrow with Day # 167!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 165

Day # 165





I was sprinkling my front lawn, and this bird was in the tree. He would look down at the sprinkler and wait ….. to .... get wet! He stayed for quite a while enjoying getting a shower as the sprinkler was going back and forth! 

Eyeing up the sprinkler…here it comes…waiting waiting 

Ahhhh, feels so good esp. under the wings!
Day # 165 " Bird in a Shower"

 

I am glad that not only do we enjoy running through a sprinkler, its nice to see our feathered friends enjoying the sprinkler as well! 
See you tomorrow with Day # 166!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 165

Day # 165




I know I am suppose to post a picture I had taken today. Since this is about growth, challenges, colouring outside of the lines. I decided to challenge my self. This morning, I posted a photo I had taken on sunday and I sent it into "The Weather Window" at GlobaltvBC. Now, I don't know until I watch the news if my picture was chosen out of the hundreds of other amazing photographers sending in their pictures.  You just don't know if you don't try. 

Sunday morning at West Lake ( sent to Global BC TV ) 

Day # 165 "Wavey West Lake"( sent to Global BC TV")  

When I get brave enough to enter a photo contest, or weather window again, I will let my family and friends pick out the photograph!

See you tomorrow with Day # 166! 

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 164

Day # 164



I love taking photographs of flowers, your, mine, the parks, wild…. I thought I would try something a bit different. I made my own filter for my lens..to create a misty watery maybe a romantic effect. 

It is always fun to play, even for a few minutes. I hope with your busy schedule  you get to play as well. 
See you tomorrow with Day# 165! 

Jewels 

Day # 164 "Petunias in the Mist" 

Photo Challenge Day # 163

Day # 163


My second time out on West Lake kayaking. We were out before the public were up and on the beach. The lake was quiet, calm and so enjoyable. I loved watching the loon, the ducks as we paddled past them. I was hoping that when I had my camera out, that I would take a photo of a fish jumping!

 

 

Day # 163 " Kayaking"

a self portrait of me on the lake

I think the next time, a new lake and maybe packing a picnic breakfast! 
I hope everyone had a great Sunday like we did! 
See you tomorrow with Day # 164!

Jewels 

Photo challenge Day # 162

Day # 162

Taste of Summer 

You can't get much fresher than this, fresh fruit from the Okanagan Valley. It is so nice to be able to can them up, so I can enjoy them during our harsh winter weather. Combining fresh herbs from the garden, I was able to combine flavors with the Roma tomatoes. I am looking forward in creating something wonderful with the 

goodies in my pantry.   

Day # 162 " Roma" 

 I think I need to find the fruit truck, and get more tomatoes.... I am thinking, hmmm Salsa! Relish, pickles ......

See you tomorrow with Day # 162!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 161

Day # 161


It is a nice evening, warm enough to sit outside with a cup of tea. I love to sit, reflect, and watch my solar lights come on at we settle into evening.

Day# 161 "In the Dark" 

Flowers still look lovely even in the dark. There seems to be a magic, with the solar lights, the dark sky and a few stars peaking out of the clouds. 

See you tomorrow with Day # 162! 
Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 160

Day # 160


Today for my photo challenge, I had decided to use my macro lens, shoot in monochromatic, plus, not to check to see how the photos turn out until I downloaded them onto my computer. I found 2 I like the best! 

Day #160 " Rain Drop on Kale" 

Kale 

Try and shoot pictures for the day and not look at your viewing screen until you get home or when you are ready to download them onto your computer. 

See you tomorrow with Day # 161

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 159

Day # 159


I was very pleased to find this lovely water beauty! Exotic floating in the water. 

Day # 159 "Exotic"

See you tomorrow with Day # 160! 
Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 158

Day # 158



During the summer, in some households,there is a lot of activity in the kitchen. There are jars, lids, sugar, pickling spices, assorted fruit, berries and vegetables being pickled, canned, jammed. 
As a kid, I loved the smell of fruit being jammed or jellied, the smell of fresh dill for pickles…waiting was so hard to taste mom's canning! 
When mom had her jam jars filled and the jam pot emptied, it was such a treat to lick the pot clean!  We would have sticky fingers and arms!  My all time favourite is and always will be was my mom's apple jelly. To me it was a blue ribbon winner!  Oh to taste her jelly once again! 

Day # 158 " Jams 2015"

Today I had made the following, Raspberry, Raspberry/Peach, Raspberry/Huckleberry and Peach Jam! Yes,the taste testing was wonderful, esp. with home made bread! 
Hmmm, now what shall I jam up tomorrow!! 
See you tomorrow with Day # 159!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 157

Day # 157



In the small corners of our world, you can always find beauty. 

I like water lilies. I remember mom and dad putting in the pond at their house in Greenwood, BC.  The kids and I, plus mom and dad were up at Jewel Lake, and mom wanted water lilies for her pond. There was Julie, in the water…yes it was mucky…but, I did get mom her plants. For that moment, I felt like I was her hero. 

Day # 157 "White Water Lily"

Today I use my small camera (Canon Power shot SX170 IS) I have named her "Sweet Pea".

I used a macro setting, was on my hands and knees, leaning over the pond, hoping I don't fall in to take pictures. 
I took so many of this lovely Lily, it was had to choose. I hope you will enjoy1

See you tomorrow with Day # 158!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 156

Day # 156


Like I had promised, here is the before and the after pictures of my front yard. I am so very pleased with the out come. I still need to play in the front flower beds. Looking at the date on the calendar, I will have fun planning my front flower beds this winter!  

Before, front yard

Before, front yard 

So, now the after pictures of the front yard. I really would like to thank my children, family, friends for the cheering and support! It has been a labour of love ! 

Day # 156 "After, front yard" 

After, front yard

I would like to also thank Robert, with out his muscle, tools, talent, this project never would of happened. 

See you tomorrow with Day # 157!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 155

Day # 155


Spent a lovely afternoon at "West" Lake provincial park, playing on the water. I also had fun trying to take pictures of a mother eagle in the nest with her young. 

Day #155 "Sun before the storm"

I really enjoyed my first try at kayaking! I thinking I need to put one of these babies on my "wish" list. 
See you tomorrow with Day #156!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 154

Day # 154




I have seen some great photos of rain drops splashing! I thought since today was a rainy afternoon, I could attempt my hand at achieving the same type of pictures. I took over 100! Nothing like those professional photographers! 
So here is my picture. 

Day # 154 " Its raining" 

I think I shall do some research and see how the professionals get that money maker shot.
I did have fun. There is something said about being barefoot outside during the summer rain! 
See you tomorrow with Day # 155!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 153

Day # 153



I had left my clothes drying rack out on the deck yesterday. After the rain this morning, I had noticed a row of tiny droplets of water, on the droplet was a tiny aphid like fly. 

Day # 153 "Tiny insect on Water drop"

I was very pleased with my macro lens with this picture, can you see my kitchen window in the first water drop?

You can see the tiny lines in the aphids wings, such a delicate creature Mother Nature had created! 

See you tomorrow with Day # 154! 

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 152

Day # 152

Taste and Colour of Summer

One of my many favourite flavours is the lemon. In cooking, desserts, drinks, even in my body lotion. Lemon in water, and as lemonade, the taste of summer, or any time of year. 

Yellow lemons, pears, spaghetti squash, and so many flowers in this bright happy colour. 

Day # 152 "Still life, Lemon" 

I have a cook book filled with lemon recipes. I now feel inspired to bake these wonderful lemon bars, and lemon wafers. Yes! a future photo will be coming!

See you tomorrow with Day # 153!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 151

Day # 151

Colours/taste of summer

Green, is a cool colour of leaves on trees, as you lay under during a hot spell. Green  grass/plants, green limes in your drink, green apples, grapes, lettuce, avocados and so much more.

This year I planted 'green zebra stripe' tomatoes. I will let you know how they taste!

Day # 151 "Green" 

Enjoy the taste and colours of summer near you! See you tomorrow with Day # 152!

Jewels

Photo Challenge Day # 150

Day # 150



I have been wanting to share pictures of my yard. I am so thrilled at how it turned out! I am so looking forward in hosting a BBQ/gathering in my yard ! 

before 

before 

And now for the After pictures

Day # 150 "After" (back yard)

I hope you can see the difference! I hope you understand why I like being here in my yard! 
The front yard is almost done…. I will post those pictures very soon!

See you later with Day # 151

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 149

Day # 149


Heading home to Prince George today! Ashton who just turned 10 years old wanted to make me breakfast! Danielle was an awesome cooking coach/teacher! 
Breakfast was scrambled eggs, hash browns, toast. Thank you Ashton, tasted wonderful! 

Day # 149 "Ashton cooking"

What a great week off from reality! Thank you Tracey, Andrew, Danielle, Aleah, James, Robert! 

Time to go home….

See you with my next post…Day # 150!!!

Jewels 

Photo Challenge Day # 148

Day # 148


Today was Tracey's 26th Birthday! 

She had a pool party at Andrew and Danielle's place! 
More fun in the sun, water, awesome food, great beverages, super family and friends!

Day # 148 "Birthday Girl, Tracey" 

Happy Birthday Tracey! Was a fun day! Thank you Andrew and Danielle for the wonderful BBQ dinner!

See you with Day # 149! 

Jewels