Whats up with me?

Well, quite a lot actually. I'm now officially on vacation for... (drum roll please) 6 months! Yep, I did it and am on sabbatical from work to focus on other creative and fun ventures. So it's been 1 week now and let's just say it's been interesting. I've had the time to relax, enjoy the country life and plan some of my projects. And I must say that I don't miss the daily commute to the city, no I really don't.
So here are a few photo updates of my country life. My little garden is flourishing and we've already had the joy of eating some home-grown tomatoes, cucumbers and radishes. Now it's time for string beans and hopefully peppers. Once again, carrots were NOT a success... maybe next year.

Back row: green beans, cucumber, zucchini, tomatoes
Middle: radishes, beets, green and red peppers, hot chili peppers
Front: onions, herbs, green onions and more herbs

Here we have a few pics from some flowers in full bloom around the house. Such a joy to see them grow.

Hemerocalle

Poppies grown from seeds, so beautiful and delicate petals 

Hello Sunshine - one of the many 6' tall sunflowers by the side of the house. Can't help but smile when you see these tall beauties.

So during the past week, I had the pleasure of going on a field trip with my lovely Mama, to visit the Clef des Champs gardens in Val-David. They specialize in herbs and medicinal plants, it was a beautiful and quite warm day and I truly enjoyed the visit and the company.

Mama looks like a Southern Belle

Thanks for the hat Mama. (Yes I know, we really look alike)

A glimpse at the mountainous gardens at Clef des champs

In case you're wondering, Mika is doing great, she's a really happy dog, resting in the shade.

Photo updates - flowers and garden

Garden in July

First harvest herbs (basil, oregano, cilantro, rosemary)

First harvest radishes (yummy and spicy)

New rose bush

Clematis & Capucines

Is it true? Spring is here?

Is it true? Spring is here? Well it sure seems like after a very very long snow winter, Mother Nature said GO to Spring... phew! What a relief  to see the many signs of a warmer season. Even though the snow is still around (and probably will be until July by the size of the snow banks... sheesh!) I do have a few crocuses that are blooming. What strong plants they are to endure the heavy snow and frozen nights.

And the birdies are back, tiny little white tummies chipping away at the bell of grains.

But of course, Spring on our property means lots of mud and for our furry little friend, that means dirty paws, but also lots of sleeping in the sun on the balcony.
One of the things I like most about Spring are the longer days. Feels great! So is it true? Spring is finally here!!!

P.S. We even got a visit from what looks like a Superhero to welcome the change of season... ta ta ta ta ta ta ta   Batman !!! he he

Fauna & Flora

Oh boy, let me first say that I’m sorry for not posting sooner. Lots of preparation has been done for the big day (moving) at the house, as well as packing and planning.

So, let’s just jump back to where I left off.

On Sunday April 4^th, while I was still working on the screens, something caught my eye. As I turned around to my right, I saw an animal cross the road. In my most excited, yet quiet voice, I called out to Mr. Fox who was at the very back of the workshop, to come and see. We were both awe struck when 2 magnificent female moose crossed the road, toward the mountain behind our house. We rushed to find the camera, but they were already up the hill. What a moment of wonder we had. Maybe 10 minutes later, my dear sister Caro and her boys arrived to visit. It was great to have guests who discovered our new home, the little boys looked in every corner and mostly ran around in the front yard.

They were most impressed by the little bones we found earlier behind a tree in the back yard. I understand, we all are!

Jump to the next weekend, where we, yet again, woke up to some snow on the ground. No problem, it all melted in but a few hours. Phew! We got to work on the grounds, had a helping hand (and lunch!) from Mr. Fox’s parents and enjoyed another great weekend. I got a gardening itch and with the weather on my side, I planted a bunch of seeds while Mr. Fox installed a newly painted birdhouse.

And finally these last 2 days have been all about preparing the house to greet all our stuff. The Workshop is in top shape with the impressive clean up that was done. We discovered our 1 crocus in the very middle of the yard… how it got there is a mystery. Doesn’t really matter, I’m enjoying the wonder it procures…

Here is the progress in regards to the seedlings, yay! Basil, parsley, coriander (yep, that’s love baby!), rosemary and a few flowers. I love Spring and all that comes with it!

More to come soon!