September Love

"Autumn is a second spring, when every leaf is a flower."



This morning as I looked outside my window, I was glad to acknowledge that soon, there would be a change on nature's landscape. September has finally arrived at our doorstep. I for one, love Fall and the many events and things to do during this season is what makes it so lovely as well as nature putting on a spectacular display of colour found on the leaves of trees, an orchestrated suite of its departure before Winter settles in.

Why I love Fall:

Sipping on apple cider and pumpkin spice latte.

Decorating my place for Fall.

Making leaf lanterns and Fall garlands- with the leaf lanterns, it's so incredibly beautiful when you light it up at night.

Painting out in my grandmother's backyard, or somewhere in the city like the on the Toronto Islands, High Park, or the Beaches.

Picking apples at an apple orchard.

Biking around Toronto Islands at this time.

Planting bulbs for Spring.

Hosting indoor picnics.

Taking road trips.

Horseback riding.

Making apple pie.
Helping out for great causes as Peace by Peace, and running for the Princess Margaret Hospital's 5K Run for Cancer.

The scent of cinnamon in the air and fallen leaves.

Stepping on crunchy leaves- yes, I love it!

Parlour game nights.

Amazing reads and films to absorb.

And most of all....

Downton Abbey is back on Sunday evenings! It's a special Sunday kind of love.

Series Two is under way and certainly the atmosphere of World War One really adds meaningful moments-no matter who you are, rich or poor, all are affected by war one way or another.

The train scene during the first episode of Series Two was heartbreaking. I swear, this is the only show that gets me a bit teary-eyed in almost every scene.

Out of all the girls though, I especially like Lady Sybil (pictured in the middle). However I like all of the characters in Downton- each have such a unique personality and story behind them- there are no minor characters in this show, which is fantastic.

As well, I was super touched to have been contacted by Laura Godfrey, Assistant Director of Book Club In a Box, to be interviewed about my book club for their September's Book Club Spotlight!
Here is their blurb found in their newsletter:
For this month's spotlight, we spoke to Joanne from Toronto, who founded the Matchbook Book Club three months ago with the hope of sparking "discussions in meetings that would have the charm and feel of a literary salon."

According to Joanne, "during certain months, I add an interesting twist and make it themed. In July, it was mystery-themed and so our pick was a classic: Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express. For the month of September, the theme will be 'the Nostalgic Romantic,' and for October, in light of Halloween, the theme will be 'Wonderstruck Noir.' During our last meeting (for Murder on the Orient Express), we incorporated a murder mystery game called 'Poirot Investigates.'"

In terms of what I am reading at the moment I am actually juggling two at the moment- one is for my book club and one for leisure:
The book club selection:



England, 31st of August, 1939.

The world is on the brink of war. As Hitler prepares to invade Poland, thousands of children are evacuated from London to escape the impending Blitz. Torn from her mother, eight-year-old Anna Sands is relocated with other children to a large Yorkshire estate opened up to evacuees by Thomas and Elizabeth Ashton, and enigmatic childless couple. Soon Anna gets drawn in their unravelling relationship, seeing things that are not meant for her eyes- and finding herself part-witness and part-accomplice to a love affair, with unforeseen consequences.
A story of longing, loss and complicated loyalties, combining a sweeping narrative with subtle pyschological observation, The Very Thought of You is not just a love story, but a story about love.

And the other:



Have heard about this book, but never really got around to it, until my friend was talking about it and then lend the book to me. He said the book is an eye-opener, so I took a chance. I am halfway through it and every time a chapter ends, I find myself looking up and staring off into the distance, taking in everything I've just read as it's so unbearably inspiring. I love this one quote Morrie says that "sometimes you cannot believe what you see, you have to believe what you feel... even when you're in the dark. Even when you're falling."


Joie de vivre,


Joanne

Where Dreams May Come

The Armadillo

Elizabeth Bishop

This is the time of year
when almost every night
the frail, illegal fire balloons appear.
Climbing the mountain height,

rising toward a saint
still honored in these parts,
the paper chambers flush and fill with light
that comes and goes, like hearts.

Once up against the sky it's hard
to tell them from the stars --
planets, that is -- the tinted ones:
Venus going down, or Mars,

or the pale green one. With a wind,
they flare and falter, wobble and toss;
but if it's still they steer between
the kite sticks of the Southern Cross,

receding, dwindling, solemnly
and steadily forsaking us,
or, in the downdraft from a peak,
suddenly turning dangerous.

Last night another big one fell.
It splattered like an egg of fire
against the cliff behind the house.
The flame ran down. We saw the pair

of owls who nest there flying up
and up, their whirling black-and-white
stained bright pink underneath, until
they shrieked up out of sight.

The ancient owls' nest must have burned.
Hastily, all alone,
a glistening armadillo left the scene,
rose-flecked, head down, tail down,

and then a baby rabbit jumped out,
short-eared, to our surprise.
So soft! -- a handful of intangible ash
with fixed, ignited eyes.

Too pretty, dreamlike mimicry!
O falling fire and piercing cry
and panic, and a weak mailed fist
clenched ignorant against the sky!

Before I Go To Sleep

Hello everyone,

Came across this beautiful animated short film called "The Invention of Love" and would love to share with all of you. It truly is a love story from the world of gears and bolts. Enjoy!







Joie de vivre,

Joanne

A lifetime of Summer

In August, most of Europe goes on holiday. -Tony Visconti

Hello everyone!

(Beautiful lanterns I took a shot of while sailing on the Kajama)

So far, looking back at the things I have done in July- I must say I did all that I could.
One of the things I am most fond of in particular as a summertime activity, is going down the Harbourfront and sail out to the lake!

I never take a leisurely day for granted- I find such a heightened sense of pleasure doing simple things as strolling around in the early morning, catching up on a read that can't be put down even when it's late at night, exploring different paths and places in the city and of course, writing!
In my mind, each season carries activities that are so inviting. Take Summer- sailing, going on picnics, painting, and outdoor events. In the Fall, comes archery and horseback riding (which I look forward to).


Just this past week, I went on board the Kajama, where it took us out on the lake and went behind all of the islands.


It was such a gorgeous day out- a tad bit on the warmer side- but as we moved along, a cool wind made its presence known and was so inviting.



The Toronto Islands is such a  beautiful sight from up above. I shot this while up on the CN Tower- a perfect view to see all of the city and beyond.



More pictures while on the Kajama. It's so peaceful and relaxing while you're drifting away- it was very nice as we went beyond the Toronto Islands where on the brink stood a red lighthouse and a view on one side of an island which seemed inhibited except for these huge masses of birds perching on the barren trees and near the shore.



While on board, my friend and I grabbed some lunch- of course I had to order Fish and Chips- what else?




Joie de vivre,

Joanne

Roses Unrequited

At times, the world can seem an unfriendly and sinister place.
But believe us when we say there is much more good in it than bad.
All you have to do is look hard enough.
And what might seem to be a series of unfortunate events may, in fact be the first steps of a journey.
- Lemony Snicket, A Series of Unfortunate Events

Enchanted

The rhythm of the weekend, with its birth, its planned gaieties, and its announced end, followed the rhythm of life and was a substitute for it.  -F. Scott Fitzgerald

Hello everyone,


This past weekend was quite a whirlwind of activity. It's always lovely to be able to get out of the comfort of one's sphere and tap into things that are fun and interesting. Take watching the final Harry Potter film, for instance:



Wearing my pins proudly. 

Very amusing  how one of the streets near the cinema had changed its name in honour of Harry Potter where my friend and I went to go see the film. Very touching gesture as it truly is the end... but then every end has a beginning.

Equally important, in light of my friend's birthday, we acquired tickets to go see Taylor Swift's concert- the "Speak Now" World Tour 2011.
It's been quite some time since I enjoyed a concert at so large a scale- it was certainly a wonderful evening with lots of glitz and glamour. Taylor is certainly a lovely entertainer, with lots of costume changes.

When she sang "Fearless" on the ukulele, it struck an ideal note to learn how to play the instrument- to be honest, my friend and I actually wanted to go for lessons previously, but our schedules never allowed us such a window of opportunity. I should certainly want to take up that notion once more.

You know you're a Sherlockian when... 


-You want to name your future dog Watson, so that upon adventures that will await me in the years to come I may go, "Come Watson, the game's afoot!"


-I was actually more excited and in high anticipation to watch the Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows trailer on the big screen, than watching the actual Harry Potter film itself.


While we're on a mysterious note...





I am quite pleased that my book club, the Matchbook Book Club, is reading a classic as our July mystery-themed pick: Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express". Have always looked forward to reading it and presently, it would be the opportune time. 
Interested? Follow the link above.






Joie de vivre,


Joanne






Note: Photos posted are my own, minus the Sherlock Holmes poster. Please do not take without permission- many thanks.

Forget Me Not

I walk without flinching through the burning cathedral of the summer.  My bank of wild grass is majestic and full of music.  It is a fire that solitude presses against my lips.  -Violette Leduc, Mad in Pursuit

Hello everyone,

Each summer is one like no other and I love how slowly and gradually, I am fulfilling my summer list.

Over the past few weeks, time seemed to fly quite fast, but regardless, I have managed to accomplish a few things. Along the way, I have also taken some photos.

Some places I have gone to:

Loved going by the lakeshore where it eventually takes you to Ontario Place. Especially on lazy afternoons, walking by undiscovered places around there, is such a thrill. It's like reawakening to discover different places you've known all your life.

 

The Cinesphere Theatre at night. I love it when it lights up.

Interesting historical buildings while taking a stroll with a friend.

I love how this historical building has the word "Press" at the front!

Fireworks on Canada Day. To be surrounded by amazing company while  fireworks lit up the sky- what more can one ask for?

A day isn't complete without a spot of macarons. Love the ones in MoRoCo in Yorkville.

Have a great upcoming week!

Joie de vivre,

Joanne




Note: Photos are of my own. Please do not take them without permission, thanks!

The Violet Hour

Hello everyone,
Here is something I have written of late and would like to share with you all. Enjoy!


                                     
                                                                          (Photo: Kachavina)

The Violet Hour

Deep inside my dreams,
I search for your face.
It appears for only a little while,
The disguise of my attributions
Yet I hold it all the more tight.


I can hear the rain falling, the wind brushing against my back.
I could not close the windows, I could not slip against the tide.
Light streams in corners only I would see.
Words drift in gentle circles around my mind.


Keats sings a haunting song, while Poe wails at what is lost.
Against the world, my pride is my suffering.

Won't you hold me tight against your heart before I run away.

Won't you let me go before I fall away.

Against the rising sun, I find the clarity I needed once so long ago.
Days revel against broken promises, it whispers what it cannot be.
Walking along the field of maroon, I speak to the Gods and pray for the release of my dreams.
Wonder slowly falls against my shadow.
It whispers faith, it speaks of a hero, it screams fire. 





Note: Please do not copy my words without permission, thanks very much.

Once in awhile, right in the middle of the ordinary, life gives us a fairytale

"The minute you think of giving up, think of the reason why you held on for so long."- Unknown

Hello all,

Recently, I had a long talk with a friend during our long walks. I find that there is nothing so revering as an evening walk with a wonderful companion by your side- especially during warm summer evenings.

We began to talk about the significance of taking pictures and I remarked on how recently I have this growing intention to capture everything around me as much as I can through photos- no matter where I go, who I'm with- to be able to visually hold onto a moment is beautiful and noteworthy.

From this day on, I'm going to post more of my own photos here- a sort of a visual diary - of my life, as well as my writings!

Here are some that I want to share with you.

As I'm fond of exploring around the city, I came across this path one summer's day- and instantly I thought of "the road not taken". I was immediately tempted to walk down this path and see what was on the other end. It was beautiful.

I love Sundays for many reasons. One of them being that in the mornings I would make my way down to the St. Lawrence Antique Market- oh the treasure trove of loveliness that made the heart of an old soul like me skip a beat!

Strolling down the Harbourfront. There's something about being near the lake (or any type of body of water really) that just stirs my heart. Hearing some jazz music in the background instantly issues a charming effect.

One of my favourite type of flowers has got to be Hydrangeas. Especially the blue-violet ones. Place them in any type of room and it would light up the entire space. I took this in Niagara Falls.

Listen...

...to the lyrics to one of my favourite duo, Elenowen. This one of their songs, Honey Come Home. I can't stop listening to it, and their words are so pure and wonderful.

Let me pour you a glass of red
To get your mind off the things I said
I'd say sorry, you know I would
But my pride tastes too damn good

Let me pour you a glass of white
So you forget all of my lies
And I'd say sorry for what I've done
But I can't let go of what I want

So, please have mercy on me

Honey come home, you know I love you
And even when it breaks, my heart will beat for you
Oh my love, you're all I want
I know that it's never gonna come easy
But I would never even dream of leavin'
You're not alone, so come back home

Let our walls crash to the ground
Let our greed and pride fall down
Lets take a hand, run straight through the door
Invite love in to be our floor

Oh please, won't you stand beside me

Honey come home, you know I love you
Even when it breaks, my heart will beat for you
Oh my love, you're all I want
I know that it's never gonna come easy
But I would never even dream of leavin'
You're not alone, so come back home

Let's raise our glass to a new beginning
Forget our past and start forgiving

Honey come home, you know I love you
Even when it breaks, my heart will beat for you
Oh my love, you're all I want
I know that it's never gonna come easy
I would never even dream of leavin'
You're not alone, so come back home

Joie de vivre,

Joanne

Note: All of these photos are of my own. Please do not use them without permission- thanks!

To peer through curtains of dreams as if awake

Hello all,

What an interesting past month it has been. Lots of new opportunities have risen, including having the chance to work at the Palaeontology Department at the Royal Ontario Museum this summer. Strolling around the city while everything is bursting into life certainly creates an extraordinary landscape, particularly on the St. George campus ground at U of T and on the Toronto Islands. There are places I escape to around these parts and they have become more enlightened as of late- probably because of the weather I dare say!

(Photo: Em34)

At night, the world takes on a different mood and atmosphere- especially now we can tolerate the warmer evenings- which means more conversations out on the patio, and interesting events to look forward to and take part of. I myself have found engagements that had a wonderful conclusive ending which turned into fond memories as I look back.

Perhaps it is because I have been reading and seeing a lot more of things Oxfordian lately that I find myself yearning to visit the Oxford grounds and who knows, pursue a degree in Fine Arts, one day. One can always dream and pursue.

I have also as of late, founded a book club- the Matchbook Book Club that is. So far, there's been warm reception when it comes to membership- around 14 and counting.

I have many great ideas for this book club. The books, being read on a monthly basis, needs to provide an open door of a deepening understanding with our world, capture imaginative opportunities, and are enthralling at every page.

It has a wide flexibility when it comes to genre as I believe there should be no restriction in order to expand interests that may have been neglected earlier.

There will be fun outings, going to heritage places around the city, or botanical gardens, or any landscape that would coincide with what the book club aspires to be: inspirational, and to define what we think and imagine in a old world sense within a modern time. In the words of John Keats: "Beauty is truth, truth beauty- that is all ye know on earth and all ye need to know."

I have also managed to walk to places I have not gone in quite some time.

I was fortunate to observe the Japanese cherry blossoms out at High Park. It was beautiful the way its petals carved out a line against the edge of a small road. There was a light scent walking underneath them, it's colours ever so pleasing to the human eye.

One weekend my friend and I took the ferry to go to the Toronto Islands. There, a wide expanse of space provided the ample opportunity to rent a bicycle, and rode all along the island. At first I wasn't quite so sure if I was fine riding it, as it's been some years since I last rode one. However, the first few seconds I instantaneously picked up the pace and soon began to glide. How exhilarating it was, the wide open space, the view of the lake, the beaches, and the pier, oh the pier!

The best hidden surprise of all was a lighthouse as we were biking by. I just had to stop and take a photo of it. I have a love of lighthouses, and plan to visit as many as I can in my lifetime- the stories behind them have such a romantic feel in my eyes.

I felt all of my stress slipping away, trailing behind me, never to return. This sense of release felt wonderful and was refreshing. I could go on biking for hours in such a landscape. All we needed was a picnic basket for an afternoon lounge.

On the island, they have a small farm known as the "Far Enough" farm. There were horses, roosters, pigs, and other farm animals there. What captured my attention was a peacock, who stretched its immense work of art for all to see. Capturing this photo brought me to the closest proximity I ever had with a peacock.

I have a feeling that June would bring more lovely days to come, stay tuned!

Joie de vivre,

Joanne