Enroute to Toronto this afternoon I witnessed the crowds at each overpass on the Highway of Heroes (a section of Hwy 401 has been designated the Highway of Heroes to commemorate Canada’s fallen soldiers who have died fighting in Afghanistan. Crowds gather to witness the procession from Trenton to Toronto). It was hoped that the route, marked with red poppies, would encourage Canadians to reflect on the sacrifices our Armed Forces have made. The route was so named in 2007 – the crowds were amazing and it was very touching! My apologies for the blurry photos – I was driving as I snapped.

I was on my way to my first TMAC meeting (Travel Media Association of Canada) as a new board member. The CN Tower reminded me that many of our guests will be passing through Toronto on their way to the Resort – it’s worth a trip up the Tower if you haven’t been. The elevators are handy (I climbed the stairs for a WWF fundraiser one year…it’s high!)

Lush gardens seem to be overtaking the buildings….
It was an interesting day with periods of torrential rain and muggy sunshine. The little turkeys are noisy, the chickens head for the shade; the horses and cattle are happy with the juicy grass and the birds are chirping away…..spotted a kingfisher yesterday!
Dinner this evening was an international affair with teens from Arizona and adventurers from Norway – six degrees of separation works with even the most diverse groups.

Long weekend almost here…..don’t forget the Vintage Boat Classic on Sunday – I heard the Vagabond (Farley Mowat’s boat) will be on display. Book Brunch and see the classics (boats and captains alike). If you want a family outing check out the Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough (there’s a Tim Horton’s right beside the museum – how Canadian is that?).

Couldn’t resist sharing this photo of bride Jennifer (looking very regal) on the chess patio – your move Blaine.

The rain held off long enough to get almost through Act I of the 4th Line Theatre dress rehearsal this evening…..the outdoor theatre features wonderful plays about local events – my first introduction was the Cavan Blazers (which will be back in the 2011 line-up). The Port Hope story (this year) involves the processing of radium for medical use – I’m going back to find out what transpired in this story! If you are travelling to the Kawarthas you really should check out the schedule and try to catch a performance – the setting sun is the curtain and the entertainment value is high! My photo of the stage area gives you some idea of the scope.

This heron was focused on the lake, very vigilant – I wondered what was so interesting……

The heron takes off and now I know why……

It’s the first day of bass season and the heron is letting the anglers find breakfast first……winning strategy! Lots of boats out this morning before the fog rolled in and the downpour began.

Not even a little rain could dampen the spirits of Jennifer and Blaine Down, who celebrated their wedding today. Congratulations!

The full moon was peeking through the branches – in anticipation of the Clarke-Down wedding tomorrow. Very romantic!

Hunter studies the birdfeeder after spotting a rogue squirrel enjoying the peanuts meant for the little birds. The squirrel takes refuge in the feeder proper…..

The squirrel sees the dog……..

Busted…….a giant leap to escape the dog and the birds who are now upset…..the squirrel escaped unharmed, the dog is still sniffing the deck and the birds are having a snack. All is good in nature.

No obvious damage from the winds last night – today was extremely humid with some wind. The gardens are looking lush and I’m told by Gardener Bob the flowers are too advanced – he’s worried the blooms won’t last until August. Just noticed a few cottages available for the long weekend……will you be joining us?

Peter was able to fuel up and fly out before the high winds – he is heading north with his fishing buddies from Guelph and Norway….northern skies will be restricted tomorrow due to the G8 – tornado warnings make the trip more challenging – the weather forecast north is for snow squalls….can’t wait to hear the fishing stories. Safe travels!
The chickens seem to be discussing the tremors just after 1:30 pm today….reports of an earthquake registering 5.5 created alot of talk (but thankfully no damage). This evening we are waiting out high winds, thunderstorms and tornado warnings. Standby for outcome reports.

The Beatles live on with the Elmhirst Rockband group at the employee summer kick-off this evening. Several staff tried their hand at drums or guitar, Henry was the supreme vocalist and even the wanna-be rocker guests were thrilled with the entertainment value. Between training, conferences and regular guests we try to have one night of silliness (we succeed big time). Now that we are experienced rockband stars we look forward to hearing you in the Wild Blue……are you up to the challenge?

We managed to get more hay bales off the field this morning before the big rain – as the sun sets it’s clear and fresh…..good fishing tomorrow.

Training has started for my Athens, Greece marathon in November – not only am I walking and trying to get in shape for the event, I am eating Greek, with friends, of course. Today we gathered for a Greek food fest on the lawn – our gracious hostess Glenda had prepared a full menu of authentic goodies. Only true friends would insist on acclimatizing you to the culinary challenges you will face when away from home.

Please be on the lookout for the turtles crossing the road when you are driving out of Keene….I flashed my lights at a delivery truck today and the driver slowed down and veered around the ambitious turtle. You know who you are…..thanks. As you leave Keene, don’t forget to pick up your fresh strawberries at Nelsons Berry Farm. The berries are smaller than the imports but very delicious.

It’s haying season so Albert and Peter were busy baling and stacking tonight…..just in case it rains tomorrow. Happy Solstice to all! (keep the howling down)

It was a perfectly lovely Father’s Day. On arrival at Brunch each Dad was presented a medal for being such a winning father. I hope you were able to spend time with your Dad today.
Later this afternoon we headed out to Sandy Beach for a picnic and some beachcombing – we were lucky to spot the loon – he didn’t seem too worried about us!

Have you got World Cup fever? The Wild Blue Yonder is the place to watch the action – there has been an international cheering section for each game….making it very interesting and maybe a little loud!

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Limited space available for the July 01 long weekend….call now and getaway.

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