FAT TIRES

Bikes today are so different from the ones we rode as a kid. In winter we used to wrap rope around the tires to give us traction. Today the bikes have FAT tires and 10 gears, no trouble going through snow.

After lunch I borrowed Maggie's bike and Sean, Missy and I headed up the road. It was quite the workout, much more strenuous than I expected.

Maggie still looked relaxed when she returned, as for me, I was ready for a nap. 

Next time we do this I think I will need one of those battery assisted bikes, seems more my style these days.

Thanks for stopping by and keeping an eye on us.

WALK ON THE LAKE

Sean, Maggie, Frankie and Missy are visiting for a few days so after breakfast we bundled up and headed down to the lake.

Frankie rode in a pouch strapped to her Dad which made it easy, comfortable and warm. She never complained the whole trip.

Mary always wears her "clickers" and uses her poles for added stability as a fall could be disastrous.

We had such a good time I think we might do it again tomorrow.

Safe travels everyone and Happy New Year to you.

CHAGA

Our neighbour brought Mary a box of Chaga this week. He has an eye for finding this fungus which grows on Birch trees around here.

The first job was to break it down to small managable size chunks.

Breaking frozen Chaga isn't easy, even with a hammer and working on a cement slab.

We moved it indoors by the fire to thaw it out and let it dry. This may take a few days. If you've never used Chaga you can learn about it by clicking HERE

I'll post more pictures once we actually start enjoying it.

 View out our windows this afternoon. Looks like a perfect day for a walk in the woods.

This morning Mary has been busy in her sewing room.

Safe travels everyone.

KELLY CHRISTMAS

We all  gathered in Hamilton yesterday for the "Kelly" Christmas. Of course the grandkids were the center of attention, everyone taking pictures of Frankie as we all took turns giving her the cuddles.

Like all family gatherings, food was essential and Sean decided it would be a Spanish theme this year. He made  PAELLA   which was so tasty.

No shortage of delicious food as everyone brought their favourite dish to add to the meal.

Contrary to her facial expressions Kate did enjoy the food. She just prefers  the chocolate candies in her treat box; must have her grandfather's genes.

After lunch it was time to open gifts; the best part of getting together according to Owen.

Owen reading his book to daddy.

A gentle touch warms the heart and Kate sure can melt our hearts.

Frankie happy in Owen's arms.

Sherri made PJs for all the kids so we had to get a group shot  We love our grand-kids.

Too soon the party was over and time for kisses before leavimg. Looks like Kate kissed Missy. She loves dogs.

Thanks everyoe for a wonderful time, delicious food, and some great memories.

ST. LAWRENCE MARKET

We were up early this morning off to the St Lawrence Market ahead of the crowds.

The market is still on the original site and I believe this building went up in 1845.

The vedors are friendly and helpul often giving you samples so you can taste beore you buy

Visitig the market takes me back to the days when Dad would drive us  to see the widows at Eaton's and the market. It was always a special day

Mary and Leanne discussing the purhasing of Canadian oysters from a vendor. My Mom always bought oysters for Dad to enjoy over the Christmas holidays.

We also bought clams which we will enjoy at Sean and Maggie's this afternoon.

If you ever visit Toronto be sure to spend Saturday at the market.

Thanks for stopping by and keeping an eye on us.

PRETZEL LOAF

Today Mary made Pretzel Bread. It is so easy to make and smells decliious. One loaf will disappear today one loaf is promised to Leanne; hope it makes it.

After they came out of the oven Mary basted them with butter to keep the crust soft.

It is -26*C outside at the moment, a good day to stay indoors and bake bread.

Stay safe and warm everyone.

AFTERMATH

The storm is over but the beauty remains. It so peaceful and inspiring walking our roads these days.

Even the hills surrouding Bancroft look spectacular covered in white.

Our trailer is safely stored at the top of the driveway, ready for a quick escape if we decide to head south.

Lots of low branches over our driveway. If we don't get some warm weather soon we will have to do some trimming.

Hope you are warm and dry and enjoying a long sandy beach somewhere.

Safe travels everyone and thanks for stopping by.