Phototrain

Purple Passion

2011-10-22T09:56:00.001-04:00

Purple Passion, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

It's funny to admit that I don't even know which photos I have stored.
I remember, when I saved them that the thought was to use them eventually, But I don't know when eventually is! So this photo has served as a reminder to deal with these hundreds or thousands of images.

Advice To Self: good luck!

Texture Points

2011-10-15T07:17:00.001-04:00

Texture Points, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Finally, a post! Only a small one though. The summer has finally slipped away it seems, replaced by the rainy winds of early autumn.

The rest of my stuff finally made the journey from southern Ontario. Nearly all of it is destined for thrift shops and recycling. The previous de-cluttering was good practice for this last bunch of ... well, junk.

This is a photo from June 2009, taken with the Nikon D200. The D200 expired in the summer of 2010, when I fell out of the canoe! Since then I have learned how to get in and out of the canoe without capsizing.

2011-09-22T10:30:00.001-04:00

Enjoying Life

Here is your humble, slightly unclothed scribe, enjoying the fruits of his, and hers, relaxation.
This afternoon going out in the canoe, with Jacqui, and doing some fishing, is actually a reward to myself.
What did I do that I feel it necessary to reward myself? Well I don't mean to brag, and I'm not ... but; because I did a somewhat significant de-clutterisation recently, my life has become a lot more enjoyable.
How has it become more enjoyable?
Firstly, my/our small cabin on the lake looks nicer.
Secondly, not only is cleaning easier-it is actually possible.
Thirdly, and this is the big one-this is the big payoff ...I now have more time for other things.
Canoeing and fishing for example. Now there is time for posting to this blog also.

Another plus was the fish we caught: a nice chubby bass, and three good bluegills. They were a delicious addition to our meal of steak, and squash with apple and cinnamon.
It is nice that the proof was on the dinner plate, so to speak.
This life of Mike's is becoming very convenient to maintain.

My place is small, but it has a lot more space available for living and enjoyment, now that all that stuff is gone. Stuff that I wasn't using. If I really "needed" those things, I would have used them sometime in the last few years. What is really unbelievable though, is that I hauled this crap over 350 miles, over 550 kms, when I moved here.

Jacqui and I also had time to work on both canoes, sanding and painting. We spent the last few evenings duelling it out by playing backgammon and crib. We both won ... we both lost.
We take photographs, as well, so we spend some of our time with those images. It was a bit rainy, on and off , for the last few days, so we chose to delay our camping trip until the week after next.

Now that I have time to do the things I like, I am thinking about what should or shouldn't be on the passions/bucket list.

Back to the fish story. We soaked the fish in brine for over an hour and a half , and we were pleased to discover that there weren't any worms.

Only 51 months to to go until my earliest retirement date of December 31, 2015.

Feel free to comment, discuss, or ask. Thank you for your interest.

2011-09-15T16:37:00.002-04:00

Fall Cleaning

The process slowly continues, one day at a time. This photo of the shirt, underwear and socks, represents today's progress.

Today I got rid of:

2 pairs of track pants
21 pairs of socks
18 T-shirts
9 pairs of underwear

All freshly laundered in AAA condition.

Out the door and off to the Sally Ann they went. At the very least, these items will be torn up, or sold to jobbers to tear up and sell off as rags. Or they will be recycled for manufacturing. Nearly all of the items are made of cotton.

Imagine how many natural resources will be saved, because maufacturer's are able to use the cheaper recycled cotton. Plus all the water and chemicals, and other natural resources, energy for example, that are used in the production of raw cotton will not have to be disposed of, which causes further environmental damage.
I never used to think of things like that, but I do now.

I am an 'accidental' minimalist. I got started out of necessity ... living in a smaller place compared to my previous, palatial home. So I clued in a little and realised most of the 'stuff'' I was maintaining, was costing me time, money & space.

At one time, I had over 40 pairs of underwear! They have weird reality shows about people who collect things in that manner. Even weirder, apparantly, even weirder people watch those TV shows!

I don't watch television. The best things I ever did was stop gambling, smoking and watching television. I believe those things will kill you.

Anyway, the fall clean up continues and I am really looking forward to a winter full of camping, dancing, game playing and cooking with, my best friend, Jacqui.
There will be some other stuff too; going for walks, reading, taking photos, and just sitting and staring into space and wondering 'what if'', and then finding the answers to that question.
Jacqui and I always find an answer, but even if we don't, that would be okay too. We solve most of the worlds problems, snuggled up on the couch, looking into each other's eyes and sipping hot chocolate or wine.

And if that isn't proof of a good happy life ... then consider this:

Today is the 40th anniversary of Greenpeace. I think that is great news!

I wonder: How many people has Greenpeace saved in the last 40 years?
Does anybody know?

Is it 1,000?
Is it 10,000?
Or 100,000 or a million?

I think the 2 best stories in the news this past week, were about Greenpeace and that 3 year old boy that was returned home, in Sparwood, B.C.

But enough about what I think.
When you put your head on the pillow at night ... what do you think about?
Is it something that is helpful and happy?

We's likes happy stuff ... doesn't we, Jacqui-Mae?

As a friend said recently,
"Be the change".

PS: The above photo also can be seen at flickr here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mike_55/6150523289/

The Simple Living Guide by Janet Luhrs

2011-09-13T16:21:00.001-04:00

The Simple Living Guide by Janet Luhrs, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

This is an excellent guide to making life better. It talks about simplifying or minimising your very hectic, busy life.

The author suggests that we focus on our passions. She writes about learning how to focus, how to learn to cut out the distractions and time-killers that prevent us from reaching our potential.

This book is an excellent introduction to minimalist concepts and philosophies.

Her writing has already helped me change my habits to get more value out of my life.

Click on the image to go to flickr.

I Will Get Rid Of This

2011-09-13T13:07:00.001-04:00

I Will Get Rid Of This, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

It's just a matter of time!
Be strong, good soldier.
Click on the image to see more at flickr.

Enough Is Enough

2011-09-13T12:52:00.000-04:00

Enough is Enough!

My exasperation with the cellphone provider I have been using, has finally made me ask: why do I give these corporate thugs my money?
These scurrilous, corporate hooligans will soon get very little, or preferably, none of my money.
I get the internet for free and I have CAA. At the very most, all I need to have is a cellphone and a pay as you go phone card.

I feel better already knowing that I must, that I will, finally get a very firm hand on the ludicrous rates that these 21st century robber barons charge.

Only in Canader you say? Pity, in't it?
Chuck you farley, aiss my kss!

Anyway, now that I'm back to my normally civil, relaxed self, what other alternatives can I think of.
Having a cellphone gives me a certain sense of security.
So that begs the question: what will happen to me if I don't have a cellphone? Will I suddenly die? Will my car all of a sudden break down? Will I get a flat tire and be preyed upon by thugs, beaten and robbed, and left at the side of the road to die a lonely, painful and humiliating death?

I wonder exactly how cruel my life will become for me without a cellphone?
I am resolved. I will throw cellphone security to the wind and risk life without a cellphone.
I will revert back to the old fashioned house phone/landline.

Besides, cellphones pollute the planet. They have to be replaced every few weeks, months or years because they are built so flimsy. Why aren't they waterproof and shockproof?
What we need is an indesructible, cheap cellphone that lasts forever, that can have apps uploaded for FREE, by our somewhat less than generous cellphone service providers, to improve them as required.

Speaking of generous ... exactly how much do these corporate kingpins earn in a year?
I'll bet they are ridiculously generous when it comes to their salaries.
So why can't they throw their customers a crumb, and reduce the rates by a substantial amount?
Instead of saving money by importing these things from some sweatshop, why don't they start right here, right now by cutting the fat at the top?

I wonder. One can hope, can't one?
No matter, one way or another, there is going to be a change in my cellphone habits.

Feel free to make a comment or suggestion or a criticism.

What do you think?

2011-09-08T00:26:00.001-04:00

What a great week. I got rid of three tables, the armoire is emptied and ready to go. A stack of clothes and some other stuff is ready to be donated. What a breath of fresh air. I haven't watched TV for weeks, I don't miss the commercials from the corporate sponsers one bit.

Well it wasn't all heaven on earth. The walk that myself, and my best friend took today was a little short. It was invigorating and relaxing too. Off to work tomorrow again. The week off was really refreshing. The Gatineau Balloon Festival was a joy. Our new tent was a joy.

I really enjoy getting rid of this stuff. Why would anyone need more than three pairs of jeans anyway? If I used them for work, then nine of them would be reasonable. They were just junk taking up space. If they are needed that would be reasonable, but they aren't needed. Maybe somebody else will have a need for them.

Good night, sleep tight.

2011-09-03T11:20:00.015-04:00

I am,

indeed,

a king,

because, I know how to

rule myself.

Pietro Aretno, May 10, 1537.

Quoted from: http://quotegarden.com/integrity.html

Two people that have been an inspiration recently, to me, are-

Amanda Lindhout and Jaycee Dugard

Both ladies refuse to live their lives as victims.

Lindhout recently returned to Somalia to continue her goal of helping people there.

Dugard has published a book, and continues to move forward in her life. Recently, she has been on a speaking tour, describing how she refused to accept the role, or label, of "victim".

These two ladies are proof positive that one person can make a difference.

Thank you for your help, ladies!

2011-09-01T10:21:00.004-04:00

This is the MEC Camper 2 tent that Jacqui and I bought last March 20. Since that time we have spent 15 nights camped out in it. We will be using it this weekend to camp at the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival this weekend ... maybe! More than likely we will splurge and spent a couple of hundred dollars on a MEC Camper 4 tent. The Camper 4 offers more square footage. So now we will be the happy owners of two good quality tents.

Our weekend won't be starting until Saturday, due to work/time commitments. It is somewhat unfortunate that we will miss David Usher, followed by Roger Hodgson, but as they say in Quebec-c'est la vie! We will still get to see Roch Voisine and some other very good musicians, in addtion to all the other events that we may enjoy.

Today is a full day. I need to purchase wood for the shelf building project, and the paint has arrived for both canoes. Also on the list is a minimal grocery shopping trip.

Okay back to the tent. Last night would have been my second night camped out on the 1.1 acre lakeside backyard. However, a slightly boisterous pair of marauding racoons, turned the neighbours dog into a noisy doggy. Of course then the neighbour came out to speak sharply to 'Scamp', before taking him inside. So after being roused from my short sleep, I was somewhat awake. After lying quietly for nearly an hour, I retreated to the cabin to get some sleep.

It's a beautiful morning here in Rideau Ferry. There are 120 entries into the last big fishing derby of this summer, so the hamlet is buzzing. The area motels are full, some will have to stay in Kingston or Ottawa, or further afield.

We are off to Gatineau, Quebec for camping, music, fireworks and hot air balloons.
Have a great weekend!

With kindness and respect,

Mike.

2011-08-31T22:11:00.006-04:00

Solitude and peace is what I feel when I head into the woods. Camping and canoeing are my "Walden". Relaxation has become an ingredient of my daily life. Small things that used to slightly perturb my attitude, no longer count or matter. I am grateful.

Today I got rid of three pieces of furniture, three tables. My apartment is small, at least it seemed small to me when I leased it May of 2010. It is less than 600 sq. ft. The landlord maintains it is 600 sq. ft., no matter. So because it is small, and doesn't have closet space, I have decided to go vertical. Those three tables, have freed up space. Space that has made room for three shelf units. This will allow me to move the armoire out of the kitchen. That armoire is in front of a large window, so it will be a real plus to get the armoire out of the window. The other bonus is that my clean clothes will now be on the same floor as the bedroom and bathroom.

In addition to removing the three tables, I was also able to clear out a few years worth of pay stubs and pre 2005 tax returns. Those papers are all ready to be burnt, once the county fire ban is removed. We could use a good rain, maybe a few of them.

My wonderful son has returned home after spending a week here, and then visiting with friends in Montreal. My sweet daughter is still pursuing her career after finishing her education.

What a good life.

2011-08-29T14:19:00.004-04:00

For my last week of vacation, Jacqui and I had a two night camping trip to Charleston Lake Provincial Park. This was my third, first visit, to a park this year. The other two 'new' to me were Algonquin and Frontenac Provincial Parks. I would like to discover one more beauty before it closes ... Sharbot Lake.

Soon all the parks will close in this area, except for Frontenac which remains open all year long. Algonquin also is open all year, but it is further away, and requires the driving time, which I grudge. It is better to camp at Frontenac. It too, is a back country park, and there is not any car camping or facilities available. There are no showers or bathing facilities ... or water taps for that matter. To bathe one must break the ice to obtain the water, and then heat it to use.

Frontenac is very quiet in the winter. Last year when we there, we were the only humans camping-both times. The hour long hike one way with gear to the nearest campsite, helps keep the numbers down.

Of course it is worth it. It is frozen, pristine and natural. Occasionally, if the wind is in a certain direction, there is the occasional jet that can be heard, but at 30,000 feet, they are somewhat quiet.

To see more photos of Charleston Lake, check out this link: http://www.flickr.com/mike_55/

Caio for now,

Jebb

Mahatma Gandhi

2011-08-15T13:16:00.001-04:00

Mahatma Gandhi, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Here is a sculpture of Mahatma Gandhi in front of the Quebec National Assembly in Quebec City.

"My life is my message" - Mahatma Gandhi -

Jebb

2011-08-14T16:44:00.002-04:00

Jebb, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Here I am enjoying a chat with J & G on their deck. The old D50 has come back from 4 months not working after being dropped in the lake.

John the master photographer took this shot. Click on the image to see more.

Covehead Point Lighthouse

2011-08-02T18:49:00.001-04:00

Covehead Point Lighthouse, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

This is the lighthouse at Covehead Point, Prince Edward Island National Park. This was a wonderful trip. I'm sure we will be back very soon.
Here is the set @ flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mike_55/sets/72157627215938659/

You can also click on the image to see more.

Greek Yogurt With Honey

2011-07-19T15:14:00.001-04:00

Greek Yogurt With Honey, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

This stuff is gastronomical gold!!! Click on the image to be cyber- projected to flickr and see more.

Big Salmon Lake

2011-06-25T10:48:00.001-04:00

Big Salmon Lake, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Here we are on the sixth day of our canoe trip. Click on the image to see the photos at Flickr.

Bein' There

2011-06-11T11:23:00.001-04:00

Bein' There, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Yup! There he is! Being a bee! Click on the image.

The Sun, The Osprey & The Nest

2011-05-23T12:11:00.001-04:00

The Sun, The Osprey & The Nest, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Life on the lake.

Canoe In The Marsh

2011-05-18T07:02:00.001-04:00

Canoe In The Marsh, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

The canoe makes a good shooting platform, especially in the brimming with life marsh!
Click on the image!

Lower Rideau Lake

2011-05-06T12:22:00.001-04:00

Lower Rideau Lake, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

This photo is taken from the canoe in the back yard marsh.
Click on the image to go to flickr.

Sunny Water

2011-04-30T12:01:00.001-04:00

Sunny Water, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Out for a morning paddle around the island.
Click on the image.

Mr. Merganser

2011-04-24T21:02:00.001-04:00

Mr. Merganser, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

On Lower Rideau Lake.
Click on the image.

Resting Canoe

2011-04-24T10:42:00.001-04:00

Resting Canoe, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

What a great time of the year! Out in the canoe for the second time. I saw a beaver, a muskrat, mergansers. loons, 2 ospreys, and everything else!

Click on the image ... check it out!

Taking Off

2011-04-19T11:58:00.001-04:00

Taking Off, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

This is one of the regular visitors to the lake.
Click on the image.

Ahoy Flag

2011-04-10T18:54:00.001-04:00

Ahoy Flag, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

A Canadian flag in the distance.
Click on the image.

Jacqui In Front Of MEC Camper 2 Tent.

2011-04-09T10:00:00.001-04:00

Jacqui In Front Of MEC Camper 2 Tent., a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

I like the hat! Here's Jacqui at our McNally Bay campsite.
Clck on the image.

The View

2011-04-09T08:08:00.001-04:00

The View, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

The view from the balcony.

Looking Towards Devil Lake

2011-04-06T15:47:00.001-04:00

Looking Towards Devil Lake, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

This is where the portage begins/ends. We continued to the tip of the point.

From this point back to Kingsford Dam is easy.

Click on the image.

Ice & Earth

2011-03-31T11:56:00.001-04:00

Ice & Earth, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

At the Yacht Club Conservation Area dock.

Click on the image.

Red Looking Squirrel

2011-03-29T16:28:00.001-04:00

Red Looking Squirrel, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Here's a photo of our furry friend who lives in the back yard.
Click on the image to go to flickr.

Red Looking Squirrel

2011-03-29T11:57:00.001-04:00

Red Looking Squirrel, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Through the kitchen window. Click on hte image to see it at flickr.

Frontenac Provincial Park, Kingsford Lake.

2011-03-26T04:21:00.001-04:00

Frontenac Provincial Park, Kingsford Lake., a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

This is the view from our campsite last week. Click on the image to see the set a tflickr.

At Kingsford Dam

2011-03-25T09:36:00.001-04:00

At Kingsford Dam, a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Here's Jacqui at Kingsford Dam. Click on the image to go to flickr and see the set.

It Wouldn't Stop Snowing!

2011-03-21T21:19:00.001-04:00

It Wouldn't Stop Snowing! a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Jacqui & Mike after trying out the new tent. Click on the image for more.

Through The Spring Fog

2011-03-17T11:12:00.001-04:00

Through The Spring Fog a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Click on the image to see more!

Two Doors

2011-03-17T06:46:00.001-04:00

Two Doors a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Check out the set at flickr ... click on the picture!
Kum sa hamnida.

The Old Mill @ Bedford Mills

2011-03-14T10:52:00.003-04:00

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mike_55/5452779663/ a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Bedford Mills is a very quaint, pretty place. It's just off the beaten track, not too far from Newboro or Westport.

More importantly, Frontenac Provincial Park owns a strip of land, a portage, that allows access from the Rideau system to Devil Lake. This allows a canoe trip to the northern border of Frontenac Provincial Park.

This was the missing link. My gratitude to those who had the foresight to obtain this very, strategic portage.

Jacqui & I started our 2011 camping season, back on the Feb, 5, 2011 at Mew Lake Campground, in Algonquin Park. It was the first time in decades that either of us had camped, albeit in the Santa Fe, winter notwithstanding.

Recently we purchased a tent From Mountain Equipment Co-op in Ottawa. So next week we will hike into Frontenac and do an overnighter in the tent ... sleeping bags, etc. I better get a compass and a map.I'll call the park and get some advice about that.

I need to get in shape, exercise a little more.
Stay tuned, Jacqui will be here soon.

Bald Eagle

2011-03-07T04:33:00.001-05:00

Bald Eagle a photo by Phototrain Photography on Flickr.

Ok, ok, ... here it is being offered up again. Anyway, this was taken on February 5,2011.
We were en route to Algonquin Park. Jacqui and I celebrated our year long friendship, by camping at Mew Lake. The weather was excellent. The wind was calm, it was a crisp -23C.

We slept in the Hyundai Santa Fe. I am 6 feet tall, and when the back seat is folded down, there is enough room for us to sleep comfortably.

We put a tarp down, then lay the closed cell foam insulation on the tarp. Then the opened up summer sleeping bag was put down. Then I put down my opened up parka, (it has a hood), then we climbed onto our 'bed'.
Then we covered ourselves with Jacqui's down sleeping bag. We opened two windows just a crack to allow air in, and to let the moisture vent out.
Surprisingly, we both slept soundly. I woke up once to relieve my bladder. When I returned to the car, I started it and let in run for 20 minutes, to get the coolness out of the air and to let the heat dry off the residual moisture.
We were up by 0715 on Feb. 6.

Neither Jacqui or myself had winter camped since our 20's. This experience has whetted our appetite for more winter, and now ... spring camping! When Jacqui get's back from work in 11 days, we're off to Frontenac Provincial Park for another learning experience.

Frontenac is a back country, natural environment park. You cannot drive to your campsite. There is no car camping. You have to hike in or canoe in. The geography and geology is the same Canadian Shield that Algonquin Park enjoys. Frontenac is 98 kms from here by car, but I am speculating that it is about 40 kms by canoe from here. There is one short, uphill portage near Bedford Mills.

So it's getting to be a pretty interesting. We're learning how to live with the possibility of coming face to face with a black bear. They want to be near us as much as we want to be near them. Our bear education is from the knowledgeable staff at the 3 provincial parks we've visited recently, Kevin at the East Gate at Algonquin, Toby at Murphy's Point, and Bert at Frontenac.
The other issue we are learning about is a nasty thing called giardia, or "Beaver Fever". It is contracted from ingesting human or animal feces, usually from water. So we need to have a small burner of some sort, to boil water, and also some type of water purification system.

We checked out stoves at Mountain Equipment Co-Op, while there last week. You can get a good one for about $71.00 to $170.00. We did buy an MEC Camper 2 tent, low profile air matresses and insulating foam, and a couple of small, light stools. The stuff is very compact, quite light.

Less than 100 kms from here are another 3 provincial parks, Silver Lake, Sharbot Lake, and Charleston Lake. Another 2 parks, closer to Ottawa, Rideau River and Fitzroy, north of Ottawa.
All brought about by a sweet anniversary ... what a fun, little project!

Stay tuned, the camping starts when Jacqui gets back!

Xmas Cactus

2011-02-13T14:16:00.001-05:00

Xmas Cactus
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Here is this years crop, literally. This is the only bloom on the entire plant.
Click on the image to see the post at Flickr.

Icewall

2011-02-08T08:40:00.001-05:00

Icewall
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Here we are heading east out of Algonquin, after camping at Mew Lake camping area in the park. Mew Lake is the only campground open right now.

We saw a couple of groups snowshoeing. I should have got a shot of the yurts, they seem pretty popular at this time of the year because they are heated.

We didn't take many photos, but the ones we got we liked.

Click on the image to see more at Flickr.

Bald Eagle

2011-02-07T11:05:00.001-05:00

Bald Eagle
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Here we are just north of Calabogie, Ontario.
We came around a curve and crested a hill and this dude was perched in a tree.

Fortunately the camera settings were correct. This was the first and only good frame.

The camping was good. Jacqui brought her arctic sleeping bag, that had seen very little service since her time in Yellowknife and Rankin Inlet.

We had a big campfire, there was very lttle wind. Despite the -16 degree temps, we were comfortable, whether awake or asleep.

Algonquin Park is beautiful any time of the year.

To see more images from our recent outdoor adventures, check out Jacqui's flickr account, lifecatcher2010.

Click on the image to go to flickr.

Breakfast

2011-01-26T08:28:00.001-05:00

Breakfast
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

We have to eat. A small, solid start to the day.
Click on the image to go to Mike's Flickr account, if you like.

Snowshoeing

2011-01-23T12:11:00.001-05:00

Snowshoeing
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Exploring Murphy's Point Provincial Park, on Big Rideau Lake, near Perth, Ontario, Canada.

Sunset On The Rideau

2011-01-10T05:03:00.001-05:00

Sunset On The Rideau
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

A beautiful winter evening on the Rideau. The ice fishing huts have started to appear.

The White Queen

2011-01-05T11:10:00.001-05:00

The White Queen
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Happy New Year.

2010, with the luxury of 20/20 hindsight; it was an incredible year.It was not without situations that required solutions.

The best year ever!

Jacqui-The Day Before Xmas

2011-01-03T15:17:00.001-05:00

Jacqui-The Day Before Xmas
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Happy New Year, sweet friend!

Love,

Jebb.

Sitting On The Frozen Waves

2011-01-03T15:14:00.001-05:00

Sitting On The Frozen Waves
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Happy New Year!

This is in Port Burwell, the day before Xmas. It was a beautiful winter day.

Hog Island On The Right

2010-12-22T07:58:00.001-05:00

Hog Island On The Right
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

The channel is frozen. Drilled to 7 inches. Another inch of snow overnight.
We got some snowshoes, so we'll be able to get out on the lake.
It's an enjoyable week leading up to Christmas.

Bug On A Frog On A Rock!

2010-10-31T15:14:00.001-04:00

Bug On A Frog On A Rock!
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

At Poonamalie Lock, south of Smiths Falls, On.

CP 9703

2010-10-24T05:28:00.001-04:00

CP 9703
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

It felt so good to walk away from this. Not a scratch, not a bruise for either one of us.

Nothing is the same anymore. This has changed my perspective on life ... and death.

What a good life.

Red Maple

2010-09-12T11:34:00.001-04:00

DSC_5936
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

What an exciting summer it was.
Click on the image!

'The Glider'

2010-08-09T17:39:00.001-04:00

'The Glider'
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Yesiree! Gotta have a canoe when you live on the lake ... or a sailboat! Lol!

Hog Island On The Starboard

2010-07-29T19:26:00.001-04:00

Hog Island On The Starboard
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Hog Island on the upper right. The channel between the mainland and Hog Island.

This has been an amazing summer. The people we have met, even the fact that we met each other, has all been so enjoyable.
It comes down to the people in our lives.

I did the laundry in Perth and had a beer while doing it. The bookstore had free books left out, and I got three; poems by William Wordsworth, a book by Herb Cohen, and lastly a hard cover, two volume missive about the American Civil War: The Blue and The Grey.

Also had a chat at the laundromat with a dude named Jade, now invited to supper with John and Gillian. My wonderful lady is in the Bruce for another night, and then it's work for her for a couple of days, before she arrives early next week. The backlog at the Port of Montreal is large, and work is regular and busy.

The D200 did not survive the canoe tipping, but it is an excellent paperweight and an entertanining story-telling subject.

Life is good.

Drop Me A Line

2010-06-28T23:04:00.001-04:00

Drop Me A Line
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Fresh Rain.
Click on the image.

On The Rocks!

2010-06-09T23:20:00.001-04:00

On The Rocks!
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

The Hog Island Express

2010-05-26T11:16:00.001-04:00

The Hog Island Express
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on it!

The Narrows Lockhouse

2010-05-26T10:36:00.001-04:00

The Narrows Lockhouse
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click.

Good Morning Sunshine

2010-05-18T13:21:00.001-04:00

Good Morning Sunshine
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

What a beautiful morning! Click on the image.

Marsh Frog

2010-05-16T14:12:00.001-04:00

Marsh Frog
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Lower Rideau Lake. Click on the image.

On The Rocks!

2010-05-08T10:31:00.001-04:00

On The Rocks!
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

The Beaches, Toronto, Ontario.
Click on the image.

Jacqui @ The Beaches In T Dot

2010-05-05T14:51:00.001-04:00

Jacqui @ The Beaches In T Dot
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

The Beaches near Woodbine Ave., in Toronto, Canada.
Click on the image.

Checkmate!

2010-03-13T09:10:00.001-05:00

Checkmate!
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on the image!

Industry Intelligence Integrity

2010-02-21T23:36:00.001-05:00

Industry Intelligence Integrity
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on the image.

Dave Genn of 54-40

2010-02-21T08:51:00.002-05:00

Dave Genn of 54-40
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

The lead man, Dave Genn, of 54-40. I didn't know very much of this Vancouver area musician. I didn't realise that he used to play with the Matthew Good Band, back in the 90's. Then he was playing keyboards.

Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5f4Na2xTgU

I Didn't know that he is married to Tamara Taggart, who is one of the on-air ladies at CTV Vancouver.
Is she still on? I'll have to check. I'm learning to watch TV shows on the laptop.

Canceled my dish, I never watch it. Too busy trying to figure out how to make the boring, everday, mundane things around the house, look great, curious, and amazing at the subject end of the D200.
Or trying to learn how to make the guitar, make amazing sounds.

That's not asking much is it ... asking for amazing?

Orange On Black

2010-02-20T21:09:00.001-05:00

Orange On Black
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on the image!

Lemon On Blue

2010-02-20T18:01:00.001-05:00

Lemon On Blue
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on the image.

Todays Lunch 1

2010-02-18T15:32:00.002-05:00

Todays Lunch 1
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Yum! Click on the image to see some more photos of how I made todays lunch! Go ahead! You know you want to!

Incense-This Morning's Snapshot

2010-02-16T08:40:00.001-05:00

Incense-This Morning's Snapshot
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

The Secret

2010-02-15T17:21:00.001-05:00

The Secret
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on this one for sure ... if you take photos, or you would like to.

Bass Player From Terry & The G Notes

2010-02-13T18:10:00.001-05:00

Bass Player From Terry & The G Notes
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Bass player from Terry & The G Notes

Red Cross Haiti Fund Receipt

2010-02-13T17:31:00.001-05:00

Red Cross Haiti Fund Receipt
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

It's not too late. They still need help. Click on the image.

Melissa

2010-02-13T14:09:00.001-05:00

Melissa
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on the image!

Terry

2010-02-13T12:56:00.001-05:00

Terry
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Terry & The G Notes playing at the London Music Club last night in London, Ontario.
Click on the image.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

2010-02-11T11:53:00.001-05:00

Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Here is one of my recent images. Include in the description is an explanation with photos of how it was taken.
The question had been posed by a fellow flickr member, PeterMackey, asking why there was little or no shadow present. I mention the place where I learnt this technique.

I hope that this will be of interest to other photographers. Thank you for visiting.

Mike.

PS: Click on the image.

Caesar Forever

2010-02-07T18:51:00.001-05:00

Caesar Forever
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click image.

Easy Over

2010-02-05T14:30:00.001-05:00

Easy Over
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

I like mine easy over.

Heartlight

2010-02-05T14:08:00.001-05:00

Heartlight
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

This heart is full of light!

Fancy Heart Colour

2010-02-05T10:06:00.001-05:00

Fancy Heart Colour
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Please click on the image, thank you!

Mango Gelato with Celery Lemon Juice

2010-02-03T20:29:00.001-05:00

Mango Gelato with Celery Lemon Juice
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on it!

Grilled Chicken Breast & Potabello with Steamed Asparagus

2010-02-03T16:14:00.001-05:00

Grilled Chicken Breast & Potabello with Steamed Asparagus
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on the image.

Lighten Up, Phototrain!

2010-01-31T11:51:00.001-05:00

Lighten Up, Phototrain!
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on the image to find out why I'm wearing shaving cream.

Set-Up For Colour Splash

2010-01-31T09:52:00.001-05:00

Set-Up For Colour Splash
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Here's the set-up for Color Splash.

Put your glasses on before you click on the image .... I go on and on and on in this one! Lol!

Go ahead-be brave ... click on it!
:-)

Point Of View

2010-01-30T20:12:00.001-05:00

Point Of View
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on it!

Colour Splash

2010-01-30T17:30:00.001-05:00

Colour Splash
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Playing with colour. Click on the image to check out the details and the set-up shot.

Sharp Colours

2010-01-30T10:45:00.001-05:00

Sharp Colours
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Last night's result. This was the one I chose out of about 80 shots. Click on the image to see the details.

Orange On Orange

2010-01-30T02:17:00.001-05:00

Orange On Orange
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Straight Out Of Camera. Click on the image, if you would like to see more.

The Glass Is More Than Half-Full

2010-01-29T01:21:00.001-05:00

The Glass Is More Than Half-Full
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

This was really delicious!
Click on the image for the details!

Purple Glass #2

2010-01-28T23:31:00.001-05:00

Purple Glass #2
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

SOOC, slight crop. Click on the image to go you know where.

Rouge Rose

2010-01-23T23:50:00.001-05:00

Rouge Rose
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Doing different things, playing with colours. Click on the image to see more.

Inside, Outside #1

2010-01-21T15:15:00.001-05:00

Inside, Outside #1
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Another little experiment. Click on the image to get the details.

The Chinese Vase

2010-01-18T21:04:00.001-05:00

The Chinese Vase
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Click on the image to se the details and set-up shot.

God Bless Haiti

2010-01-13T18:35:00.001-05:00

God Bless Haiti
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

Haiti needs our help. On CBC Radio 1, a Haitian spokesperson advises that if we wish to help, we should donate to the Red Cross. Haitians and Canadians have already been found deceased. I'm sure most nations of the world, will be sadly represented by the dead in Haiti.

It is at times like this that I pray for goodness.
We are so fortunate to be in a position to help.

Lampshade Light

2010-01-01T12:28:00.003-05:00

Lampshade Light
Originally uploaded by Phototrain Photography

If I open the eye in my mind, there is always a photo, always a story. A photo is a story, or a part of a story. We hear of people in our lives, that are incredible visual artists despite the fact that they, may be sight impaired.

As a child, I found it difficult to understand how Helen Keller accomplished the things she did. I have come to believe that Helen Keller was capable of vision in her mind. I am speculating that this mental vision in our minds is shared by all humans. Despite that some of us have limited faculties, regarding sight, hearing and so on, I think that people like Helen Keller, in their 'mind's eye' can see and hear.
I believe that this 'mind's eye' is the creative human attribute, that makes us unique on the planet.
I am guessing that this is the human trait that produces incredible inventions, art or good. I believe that it is also the attribute, that when used to evil goals, enables us to wage destruction on a horrific scale.

Coupled with this mental ability, is our physical ability to create and use tools. Applying our imaginations to the practical tools we possess, makes the process of creating even more acheivable.

I believe that as children we are educated and trained to learn the basics. We are regimentalised to 'think inside the box'. I think that is necessary in order to learn how to read and write, and learn many of the skills that we need to possess, in order to succeed in our lives.
I also think we need to impress upon our students, our young, the importance of learning to 'think outside the box'.

I am speculating that the ability to think outside the box, is the mental ability, that allows people such as Helen Keller, to achieve in the manner she did. I am saying that in spite of the amazingly talented teachers she had, if Helen herself had lacked the 'mind's eye' in her mind, that her success would have been limited or lacking.

So how does all this relate to this image? This image is a totally outside the box image. It is an experiment. I had absolutely no idea when I adjusted all the settings in the camera to the extremes that I did, that it would be a viable image whatsoever.

That is why to me, this is a good image. It is a good experiment.
A lot of the things we do in the pursuit of photography, are things that cause us to experiment. Exercises that, in their execution, that is in the 'doing', we experiment. We learn in an unconscious or subtle manner, to stumble upon, or learn to 'think outside the box'.

That is the value of photography projects like 100 Strangers, or 365 Days. Those projects require us to step out of our comfort zone.

That is the reason why I like what 'Lampshade Light' exemplifies. It is not important to me just because I took the photo. It is important, because of the lesson learned, when you do something that you hadn't been taught or told to do.
The other nice thing about this image, is that it is okay to look at. Some experiments that I learn a lot from, don't come out looking good at all.

For my part, the 100 Strangers Group Project is at Stranger #34 or 35. I'll get my 100 Strangers done before I start the 365 Days Project. I already have learned a number of techniques from Dustin Diaz' 365 Days Project, which he just completed yesterday. Coupled with the techniques that I am learning from my own Night Crawl Set, my personal project, and the 100 Strangers that I became invloved in last August, I will be in good shape to start the 365 Days Group, sometime this year. Starting is admirable, but finishing is the goal. The old tortoise and hare fable is apropos here, I think.

Happy New Year, welcome to your life in the year 2010!

Mike

Click on the image.