Day One Hundred and Twelve - Adidas Trainers

Dear all

Today was quite possibly one of the best shopping trips in the history of the world. On a blistering day of 43oC, I met D at work and [after a cheeky Corona] we sped off towards the local Metropolis, Barrie. Our first stop was Cookstown Outlet Mall. As many will know, the word 'outlet' is synonymous with the word 'bargain' and as my running shoes had been condemned by Darren a couple of days before due to a hole the size of a small rodent on the side of them, I was keen to get a new pair.

http://www.cookstownoutletmall.ca/

Darren advised we head straight for the adidas outlet. I was keen to try some adidas trainers as I was sure, despite the years and years of running and trainer-abuse, I was yet to sample a pair. The outlet shop was HUGE and full of goodies. Trainer shopping is not one of my favorite activities and my purchasing strategy is always 'try-and-buy' the first pair I see (I run so much, they always fall apart after a couple of months)

Darren had, unbeknown to me, taken us directly to sports-shoe heaven. I found a pair within approximately 3 seconds; tried them on and had them rung through before D had had a chance to peruse the T-short section.

The trainers are a total success and I am hoping will lead me to victory in the Autumn race bonanza.



We also had time to pop into the hallowed Chapters and as Darren had some air miles tokens to use up, we picked up Ted Reader's new burger book! Many more nights of Ted's BBQ genius to come!

And now a stable on every Barrie trip, we popped into Mucho Burrito for a quick snack; The best fast food joint in town. http://www.muchoburrito.com/

A brilliant shopping trip indeed!

Day One Hundred and Eleven - Agricultural Vinegar

Dear all,

Still in the garden and today everyone is frantically preparing for a big event at the Inn this coming weekend. To beat the heat, we all set to work at 6am ( by 'heat' I mean 32oC that felt like 38 due to the humidity) to weed the extensive patio.


Weeds are the gardeners nemesis and regardless of how much time one spends removing them, its a constant battle. I decided to go with new strategy and administer Agricultural Vinegar onto the patio to see if made the weeding an easier.

Because of its non toxicity to people, animals, and soil organisms this weed killer is great for spot treatments at any time as it is a pet safe weed killer ( good for us) http://www.ehow.com/how_5067018_control-weed-problems-using-vinegar.html#ixzz0szerE8Hv


It still involves a fair amount of elbow grease (See Chris above - he has a documented hatred of gardening) but after 24 hours of spraying, the weeds had turned a brownish colour and came out very easily. The result: No weeds!


And in other news:
1. Today I found a packet of golden raspberries in the fridge ( that were actually meant to be
golden)

Day One Hundred and Ten -Lavender Girl

Dear all,

Today I went back to nature on a blisteringly hot day and harvested our Lavender Field. I have already invested two summers worth of loving care in our lavender plants so feel deeply connected with it (I constantly fantasize about rolling around in the lavender with my beautiful man, a picnic hamper of papaya and raspberries and a flask full of Margarita)

We harvest the lavender for a number of reasons but aside from being the herbal equivalent of valium, we use it for the production of 'apple-lavender jelly'. Linda and I have had a constant battle with this recipe which is fairly arduous and involves 'sieving' the jelly over-night and allsorts of very complicated things like that [not good for me]. The first try saw me mistaking the infused jelly for spent meat fat and pouring it nonchalantly into the compost. The second try saw Linda accidently combining the lavender infusion with a boiling chicken carcus whilst chatting with me over a glass of shiraz

Yep, we have been through the mill with our lavender jelly. But I am determined to make it work this year. It is important to cut the lavender when it is in bud, not when in bloom, to retain the beneficial effects of the plant. We had almost missed the boat ( inn=busy) but I managed to snatch 20 minutes today and snip away at a couple of thousand lavender stalks and bring home 7 baskets full.

Lavender has such a wealth of health. Check out this joyous website, they pop in all the major benefits of La Lavande, it's wonderful: http://www.organicfacts.net/organic-oils/natural-essential-oils/health-benefits-of-lavender-essential-oil.html

I also love the nice lady in a robe

Nervous System: Lavender essential oil has a calming scent which makes it an excellent tonic for the nerves. Therefore, it helps in treating migraines, headaches, anxiety, depression, nervous tension and emotional stress. The refreshing aroma removes nervous exhaustion and restlessness and increases mental activity.

good for trivia night

Sleep: Lavender essential oil induces sleep and hence it is often recommended for insomnia.

good for Mac

Pain Relief: Lavender essential oil is also an excellent remedy for various types of pains including those caused by sore muscles, tense muscles, muscular aches, rheumatism, sprains, backache and lumbago. A regularmassage with lavender oil provides relief from pain in the joints.

good for Skyla ( pregnant horse)

Urine Flow: Lavender essential oil is good for urinary disorders as it stimulates urine production. It helps in restoring hormonal balance and reduces cystitis or inflammation of the urinary bladder. It also reduces any associated cramps.

good for the entire female population

Respiratory Disorders: Lavender oil is extensively used for various respiratory problems including throat infections, flu, cough, cold, asthma, sinus congestion, bronchitis, whooping cough, laryngitis, and tonsillitis. The oil is either used in the form of vapour or applied on the skin of neck, chest and back. It is also added in many vaporizers and inhalers used for cold and coughs.

good for Chris ( The all-seeing-eye of the inn and working today despite having quite severe bronchitis)

Skin Care: The health benefits of lavender oil for the skin can be attributed to its antiseptic and antifungal properties. It is used to treat various skin disorders such as acne, wrinkles, psoriasis, and other inflammations. It heals wounds, cuts, burns, and sunburns rapidly as it aids in the formation of scar tissues. Lavender oil is added to chamomile to treat eczema.

good for the entire male and female population

Hair Care: Lavender essential oil is useful for the hair as it can be very effective on lice and lice eggs or nits.

good for children under the age of 6

Blood Circulation: Lavender essential oil is also good for improving blood circulation. It lowers blood pressure and is used for hypertension.

good for everyone with a job that involves deadlines

Digestion: Lavender oil is useful for digestion as it increases the mobility of the intestine. The oil also stimulates the production of gastric juices and bile and thus aids in treating indigestion, stomach pain, colic,flatulence, vomiting and diarrhoea.

good for those that have to fart a lot

Immunity: Regular use of lavender essential oil provides resistance to diseases.

good for everyone

Other health benefits of lavender essential oil include its ability to treat leucorrhoea. It is also effective against insect bites. The oil is also used to repel mosquitoes and moths. You will find many mosquito repellents containing lavender oil as one of the ingredients.

As with many other essential oils, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using lavender essential oil. It is also recommended that diabetics stay away from lavender oil. It may also cause allergic reactions to people having sensitive skin. Some people may also witness nausea, vomiting and headaches due to usage of lavender oil.

Its magical. Use Lavender everyone, it will bring balance to the force.

And in other news:

1. Mac Update

After he 'single-handedly' managed to 'chew' through his metal cage, Linda found Mac replacement head gear due to the deep rooted and very valid concern for the Guinea Hens' safety. We have 3/4 guineas currently pottering around the inn and are hoping the forth is nestled away safe somewhere sitting on a batch of eggs. Mac must not get wind of this or everyone will die.

Day One Hundred and Nine - Skor Smor

Dear all,

In my quest to become Canadian, I had yet to experience one of the most iconic of Canadian pastimes: The making and the eating of a Smor! A smor is a tasty treat that is prepared, cooked and eaten around a campfire.

I scooted back to Owen Sound after work to re-join everyone for another fantastic night at Kerry and Vince's. After unanimous disbelief at my ignorance over Smor's it was imperative that a smor-fest should be unleashed.

I have a fabulous triplex of video footage for you from the evening. Apologies in advance for any slightly 'controversial language' or reference to 'body parts' that may offend.

Smor:1

Vince in his element at the BBQ and introduction to the SMOR.

Smor 2

Vince describing the process of making a Smor. For those not acquainted with such wonderment, here ye the recipe:

1. Marshmallows ( 2 kg or as desired)

NB - Luke decided to have a quick nap on our packet of marshmallows due to its stark resemblance to a pillow.

2. Graham Crackers ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graham_cracker ... For all the Brits out there)

3. Chocolate (any type will do, but the good old Cadbury's dairy milk gets my vote)

Smor 3

Me eating the Smor!

To make a smor, you place the newly heated marshmallow ( ideally on the campfire but due to time/ wood restrictions, we tried our hands at doing it on the BBQ) and a square of chocolate between two Graham Crackers and squish them all together. YUM.

But tonight was a first in many ways. I was also introduced to a 'Skor' bar. I had heard of Skors in passing but had always put it down to Canadian lingo or maybe me not quite understanding.. but whilst at FoodLand checkout today, I was told by the nice lady that I absolutely MUST try a Skor. On return to Kerry and Vince's Oasis, (also goes by the name of 'Shangri-La'), Kerry exclaimed her deep love for the Skor and wild disbelief that I had never tried one before. So I did.

It was FANTASTIC! I have been advised since that the Skor is similar to the British 'Dime' bar. ( I hear all Brits letting out an informed 'arrrhhhh, the DIME bar')

Another BRILLIANT weekend with Kerry and Vince! Can't wait for the next time!!!

And in other news:

1. I was utterly star struck today when I saw Arlene Dickinson from Dragon's Den ( My favorite program ) in Thornbury Food Land!! http://www.cbc.ca/dragonsden/

Day One Hundred and Eight - Cheesy Burger Dogs

Dear all,

The sun is shining and the weather is HOT! After a morning of steam cleaning, D and I hit the road with nothing but two beach towels and made a bee line for Owen Sound. We arrived just in time for lunch and (I kid you not) a cheesy burger dog!

The wonderful Vince and Kerry had invited us up for the weekend with the specific agenda of doing nothing but lying in the pool, drinking cold beer and eating vast amounts of incredible food.

Vince was on cracking form and immediately got me involved in the cheesy burger dog preparation. The recipe was from the God of all things BBQ: Ted Reader ( my new hero) http://www.tedreader.com

Ted tells us to roll up the beef burger meat into a square. We must then place a cheese straw and wiener inside the square and carefully roll the burger around it forming a 'large' dog. The dog is then barbecued and served in a burger bun. Delicious!

And I have a cheeky video to supplement! It was another totally brilliant evening at Kerry and Vince's!

And in other news:

1. We had the most fantastic afternoon at the pool up at Kerry and Vince's. Here is a piccie of Darren, Ben and I lazing around in the hot tub and below a sneaky video of the boys frolicking by the pool. Amazing!!

2. A beautiful leaf sadly fell from our gargantuan rubber plant today after we moved it outside to get involved in deep-cleaning (we also steam cleaned the carpets all morning and our house now smells like a meadow)

Day One Hundred and Seven - Hungry Sumo

Dear all,

HURRAY HURRAY HURRAY.

Today is the day that A JAPANESE RESTAURANT OPENED UP IN COLLINGWOOD!

Also coinciding with Canada Day: Canada's birthday and excuse for all round celebration, balloon extravaganza and national holiday.

It also turned out to be a fabulous evening and perfect for feasting and celebrating and where better to do this at home, with take out Japanese food, a couple of beers and gorgeous Darren!

We thought it be best to get take out on their first day in business to avoid any crowds so grabbed the menu off the internet ( I love technology), picked out a ton of goodies and in 20 minutes, da daaaaaa, Japanese food to feed a tribe was sitting in Darren's car whizzing it's way back home.

A feast awaits! It was delicious.

We wanted to try a broad range of the foods on offer so went for some Yaki Tori ( chicken on a stcik) and a couple of different sushi rolls.

The sashimi plate was incredible and was possibly some of the most authentic Japanese food I have had 'out' of Japan.

Good luck to the Hungry Sumo (http://thehungrysumo.com). I really hope they do well, they will certainly be getting good custom from Darren and I!

And in other news:

1. Below a video of the fireworks from our balcony and my valiant effort at being Canadian.

I have also included pictures of the fireworks as they are so brilliantly awful ( the fireworks were awesome.. my photographic skills were not)

And for those who would like to practice with the words ( in various languages), please see below:

Official English	Official French	Inuktitut
O Canada! Our home and native land! True patriot love in all thy sons command. With glowing hearts we see thee rise, The True North strong and free! From far and wide, O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. God keep our land glorious and free! O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.	Ô Canada! Terre de nos aïeux, Ton front est ceint de fleurons glorieux! Car ton bras sait porter l'épée, Il sait porter la croix! Ton histoire est une épopée Des plus brillants exploits. Et ta valeur, de foi trempée, Protégera nos foyers et nos droits. Protégera nos foyers et nos droits. Translation: O Canada! Land of our forefathers, Thy brow is wreathed with a glorious garland of flowers. As is thy arm ready to wield the sword, So also is it ready to carry the cross. Thy history is an epic Of the most brilliant exploits. Thy valour steeped in faith Will protect our homes and our rights	ᐆ ᑲᓇᑕ! ᓇᖕᒥᓂ ᓄᓇᕗᑦ! ᐱᖁᔭᑏ ᓇᓚᑦᑎᐊᖅᐸᕗᑦ. ᐊᖏᒡᓕᕙᓪᓕᐊᔪᑎ, ᓴᙱᔪᓗᑎᓪᓗ. ᓇᖏᖅᐳᒍ, ᐆ ᑲᓇᑕ, ᒥᐊᓂᕆᑉᓗᑎ. ᐆ ᑲᓇᑕ! ᓄᓇᑦᓯᐊ! ᓇᖏᖅᐳᒍ ᒥᐊᓂᕆᑉᓗᑎ, ᐆ ᑲᓇᑕ, ᓴᓚᒋᔭᐅᖁᓇ! Transliteration: Uu Kanata! Nangmini nunavut! Piqujatii nalattiaqpavut. Angiglivalliajuti, Sanngijulutillu. Nangiqpugu, Uu Kanata, Mianiripluti. Uu Kanata! nunatsia! Nangiqpugu mianiripluti, Uu Kanata, salagijauquna!

Day One Hundred and Six - Montana Ribs

Dear all,

After a long week, the sun is finally peeking out from behind the storm clouds and what better way to celebrate than to head to Montana's steak house for some beef ribs! I have been drawn to Montana's for a long while now, possibly due to the fact that I drive past it every day on the way to work, but also that I am intrigued by its location (next to Canadian Tire) and facade ( log cabin).



Darren and I skipped over to the restaurant where we were greeted by a fabulous array of 'Montana' memorabilia including a truck that had been suspended from the roof. They have a good selection beers but in spirit of the summer, we plumped for a bucket of Corona - you can't really go wrong with that.


Darren was quite excited as we were given our menus from the [very chirpy] waitress ( she loved to talk about board shorts). I had my heart set on chicken wings so went with a pound of hot as D chuckled softly in the background as he went ahead and ordered two beef ribs. The waitress asked him if would like to pay an extra dollar for 'all you can eat' .. but D declined saying that each rib was the equivalent of half a roast so two would 'probably' be enough. The waitress then regaled us with a recent tale about a young man who 'professed' to eating 'six' beef ribs. As there is no photo evidence we remain 'non-believers' in this feet of protein consumption and this so called 'rib-fiend' remains an urban legend.

Not like me however, a true-to-the-cause rib convert!



All I can say is that I have most certainly moved up the ranks towards becoming a no-holds-barred carnivore ( Sorry Jo) and my 'top five meats' are changing at an alarming rate. Gone are the days where chicken wings were numero uno. Now Beef Ribs are in pride of place at number 3 (just behind hot lamb curry and D's veal burgers)

After that, we went home and watched 'The Crazies'. I am advancing as a human!