Sold out!

Well almost!  Yesterday I did my first ever craft fair.  I sold 8 of my twelve bags and had four enquiries for my silk keepsake books!  For some reason my red velvet xmas stockings and gift bags didn't tempt anyone at all.  I made these last minute to make things look a bit christmassy as it was a christmas craft fair, perhaps people are not so keen on this sort of stuff anymore?  Never mind! 

Earlier in the week we did Thunder Bay one last time before the winter really set in.  The road was really pretty this time! Last time we passed through Schreiber I was intrigued by a number of trees bent over, almost in a perfect arc, at the side of the road.  Our friends, who have lived here for years, explained that there was an ice storm a few years ago and this was the result!  Fascinating! The frozen 'waterfalls' on the rocks at the side of the road are pretty impressive too!

So this week really saw the arrival of winter with our first real snow of the season, although I guess by local standards this still isn't anything to get too excited about!  It dropped to about -18 yesterday then rose back up to about -10!  After the craft fair Lovely Man and I decided to take a walk in the snow.  Having been shut indoors for two days sewing I was eager to get out there.  So eager I did the usual 'grab your boots and coat and out the door' thing.  Note to self - choose something you think will be warm enough and add another layer underneath!  Although I am told we will acclimatize eventually.  It was a strange experience.  Wearing only thin brushed cotton jeans my thighs got real cold even though I was walking quite quickly.  Within minutes of being back indoors they were suddenly on fire!  At one point they were SO hot I considered taking a cold shower!  I did, however, manage to get some nice shots of the beach and lake - all frozen of course!

 

So today is lazy Sunday.  Cooked breakfast, a little tidying up and then a whole day just painting and maybe another little walk in the bush!  Have a great week all!

Early one morning..

just as the sun was rising...nope, sorry, no maidens singing just us two setting off for Thunder Bay!  We needed to drop off the garbage at the bear proof dumpster before heading off and it just happens to be right near the beach.  I simply couldn't resist taking this these photos of the lake.  It looked so peaceful and serene.  I feel SO lucky to live in such a beautiful place.

Lion Beach, Manitouwadge

So we set off for our two day shopping trip some 5 hours away! The views just got better and better

 

And better!

 

We found a lovely little B&B, called Kaylees, the rooms were spotless and the food was very good and at $65 per night for both of us all included, excellent value.  We shopped, and shopped some more.  We had our first chinese meal since we arrived!  We had our favorite ribs and wings at Swiss Chalet and generally had a jolly good time!  I have a hilarious story about our adventures in the latter diner which I will share...one day!  

My only regret?  Well, they always say you regret what you don't do, not what you do.  I planned to have a go at some night photography.  I packed spare batteries, camera, tripod and my trusty 'how to' books by Scott Kelby.  But...the first night it drizzled and I really didn't want to get my camera wet and the second night I was just SO shopped out I ate dinner, shopped some more and went back to the B&B where I fell asleep!  Never mind, another day - or night - as the case may be!  However, upon my return home I decided to catch up with my blogger pals.  Can you believe it?!  The lovely Cathy, who by the way, has got this night photography lark down to perfection, is only going to give away two of her wonderful photo's for free in a draw.  All you have to do is visit Cathy's Blog and leave a comment!  So. What are you waiting for?  Get on over there and check out her lovely blog!  Not only is Cathy a fab photographer she is also a great artist and has written a book.  One talented lady.