It Was A Very Good Year

2013 was a year like any other with amazing highs and heartbreaking lows, and while I tend to face the road ahead without a backward glance, this past year deserves a little recap.

We began the year in Florida's panhandle. Compared to today's high of -25 Celsuis, I can't believe I actually complained of the cool temperatures!

A Day on the Lake

Today ran the gamut from sunshine to flurries, ending on a high note with a glorious sunset. First thing this morning, however, John and Keegan went for a walk on the lake. He stays on his leash until they reach the ice, and loves the freedom of just racing around wherever he likes. Although, to be honest he doesn't venture very far from John. They're best buds!

Skiing & Sun Dogs

We were fortunate to miss the freezing rain and power outages that hit the southern portion of the province this past weekend. My cousin posted this photo of his street after the storm on Facebook. Scary.

Photo taken by Don Sanderson Dec. 22, 2013

Leahy's Comet!

It's been a busy week. John spent it skating, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at the Black Forest Conservation Park (above). I did some writing and hit the mall--twice. Keegan, well, Keegan's Keegan. He thinks all this rushing around is insane, and took it easy whenever possible. He likes the floor...

Radishes and Gooseberry in Mattawa

Saturday morning Keegan had a spa appointment, so we dropped him off in Corbeil and continued along Highway 17 east to Mattawa. 

I Like My Mornings CRISP

The mercury dropped overnight and wham, just like that, ice appeared on Trout Lake.

Winter Wonderland

We awoke this morning to a blanket of freshly fallen snow, and then mid-morning it got blustery.

Artists, Writers & Paddlers, Oh My!

Most of you know I have a not-so-secret second identity as a mystery and romantic suspense writer. What you may not know, however, is I'm also a graduate of an art college. So when I looked out the window this morning I just didn't see the sun on the pine trees, I saw a Group of Seven painting by none other than Tom Thomson. 

Curried Leftover Casserole

While John went skating at the Pete Palangio Arena today, I checked out the Northgate Mall. With lots of shoppers and plenty of bargains, it was a great place to be. If anyone needs to get into the holiday spirit, this massive tree just inside the main entrance certainly helps!

Degrees of Cute & Holiday Decor

Another dreary day here in North Bay, but we didn't let that stop us. John decided to cross country ski and snowshoe at the Black Forest Trails. As you can see from this pic there is definitely enough snow for both activities.

Trails & Chicken Soup

I admit I felt bad staying so close to home yesterday, but with a sore throat and chills I really was under the weather. Still, I'm rarely ill and HATE having to adjust my schedule for anyone or anything. Good thing John made homemade chicken soup today. It always works miracles.

Kimtreelane & Ebenezer

This morning I headed to the Elks Lodge and the Witty Artisans 2013 Christmas Craft Show. There, I met my brother-in-law's sister-in-law (are you still following me?!). Anyway, she runs Kimtreelane Soap Company, and you can visit her on Facebook.