Tag Archives: walking

Commentary, Photography

Boxing Day 2024

32 Comments

I first posted the following in 2022. I have updated the photos and some of the text, but otherwise, the sentiment remains the same.

In Canada, today is Boxing Day. It has nothing to do with sport but rather with the idea of “boxing up” the leftovers from Christmas feasting (including unwanted presents) to give to those less fortunate. Over the centuries, it has also largely diverged from its U.K. antecedents. I was raised with the notion that Boxing Day is for providing volunteer service (I was allowed to choose – and I always chose the SPCA – but I wasn’t allowed to skip it); however, I think that this philosophy has long since disappeared.

Perhaps we ought to try to bring back Boxing Day volunteerism or other forms of giving. I am tired of the Boxing Day sales that have now morphed into “boxing week” sales – whatever those are, I’m sure you’re really not going to save anything – that are bringing into disrepute a day that used to be about selflessness and giving.

Considering the narcissistic spending focus at this time of year – something that is industriously promoted by all businesses – a little required volunteerism might go a long way to helping a great many people, including those that do the volunteering.

Food for thought.

Happy Boxing Day.

nature, Photography

Richmond

35 Comments

On our way back home from Victoria, we stopped in Richmond which is just south of Vancouver. M grew up there and we took a little tour around to his old teenage haunts.

The seafront has an eclectic mix of fishing vessels, sail boats, restaurants, coffee shops and townhomes.

After the wind storm that walloped Victoria and Vancouver had died off, the weather was gorgeous with a flat ocean calm and clear, sunny skies.

The weather was so good, in fact, that I spotted someone paddling an ocean kayak (the small red vessel toward the mid-right of the photo).

Sunny December days are a gift and we certainly enjoyed this one, especially after the weekend’s storm.

Happy Monday.

nature, Photography

Winter Garden

26 Comments

Even though winter isn’t officially here yet, our local Japanese garden has entered its seasonal hiatus.

Despite that, or maybe because of that, it’s still a calming, contemplative place to walk or even to sit for a while.

The carp in the pond have disappeared into various spots to await spring, so the only activity is from a couple of duck pairs who quickly paddle toward anyone who comes by in hope of a handout.

The colours have all softened into their muted winter hues; everything is breathing slowly and restfully.

Happy Wednesday; I hope it’s a good one.

nature, Photography

Weather Buffet

24 Comments

We had a little sun followed by a little cloud followed by a little rain (which in the mountains was snow), so the weather has been very mixed.

A little sun seeps through to shine on one of the lake shores …
… but it quickly recedes …
… and we’re enshrouded again.

It has been very overcast and rainy but I’m very happy to report that we’re still snow-free here in the valley bottom.

Happy December!

nature, Photography

The Beauty in the Overcast

30 Comments

It has been very rainy and overcast – a rather normal situation for this region as we move into winter – but there has been a lot of beauty in it, too.

There has been very little wind, the lakes have been mirror calm and the lustrous clouds have cocooned the valley in a sense of tranquility.

After a brisk walk in the 5 or 6 degree temperature (41-43F), that sense of tranquility comes home with me and I enjoy a hot chocolate and a warm blanket.

This time of year can be so unrelentingly busy and the expectations can be really high, too, so it’s important to grab moments when you can enjoy a bit of peacefulness.

Happy Monday.