Coucoumellisms

 Hiking/backpacking/rucking... whatever you call it or how you do it, just out walking in nature...

Old photos   

Words! Descriptive words, funny words, old words, new slang... The history behind the words, the culture, the imagination...  I am currently studying translation at Concordia University in Montreal. One of my classes was on the influence of the French language on the English language in Québec. In that class, we not only saw borrowings from the French language, such as "dépanneur" or "méchoui" for example, we also looked at Canadianisms. Words that are commonly used in the English language around the world, but that ALSO have a specific Canadian use (meaning.)  Here are a few examples: Canadianisms To table – bring forward for discussion or consideration at a meeting (parliament) ROC – Rest of Canada (parts of Canada outside of Québec) Have-not province – province whose per capita tax revenue falls below a certain average level, and is entitled to receive equalization payments from the federal government Drop the gloves – to remove one’s gloves (in hocke...

Gin and Tonic Gin & Tonic

A challenge to look forward to... ... and a new place to visit.  :)

Chicken soup Chicken soup is only chicken soup to the sad, empty realist. There is something in the marrow of the chicken bones that can only be released when boiled, some small magic, that, when released into the broth, becomes life-sustaining.  It brings comfort to the soul, soothes the mind, and puts a new spring into the steps of a weary traveler.

Bubble baths

Grumpy Cat Yes, ironically, Grumpy Cat makes me happy.

Fish, chips and beer... I love Fridays... :)

An excellent glass of wine (and an occasion to go with it)

Love notes

Babies laughing :) It is impossible not to laugh along with him.  Try it.  I dare you.

Someone else who FEELS YOUR PAIN. There's nothing like a little sympathy from someone who's been there, done that. :)

Babies!! No, I'm not having one.  But when I see a pregnant woman, I think "Ooooooh... Baby!"  And when I see a mother carrying one, I think "Oooooooh... Baby!" Babies are special.  They are perfect.  Life hasn't happened to them yet; they are a promise, they are hope for what CAN be.  I love babies.

Apple picking in the fall :)

Reuniting with good friends after a long absence.

Homemade sorbet on a warm afternoon... Recipe here  and here  and here .

Tea!

Maple syrup And obviously, maple taffy, maple butter, maple candies, maple sugar, coffee with maple syrup, maple frosting, maple syrup pie, the list goes on...

Spring!!! Longer hours of sunlight; flowers pushing out of the ground; maple syrup; balmy weather; not freezing when you walk outside; the promise of summer and outdoor sports; what's NOT to love?