tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-234354582012-01-14T01:18:00.790-05:00. . . Where in the world do you want to go?Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.comBlogger3361100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-12431070775128510562012-01-06T11:47:00.001-05:002012-01-06T11:47:33.051-05:00

Costa Rica's exotic birds and wildlife are a big draw for travelers; this Central America country is home to hundreds of species that inhabit its rainforests, volcano slopes and coastal plains. Here are some pictures of a toucan, hummingbirds, a grey heron and more, photographed at Poas botanical garden (north of San Jose) and Carera National Park (west of San Jose, near the Pacific Coast).

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-85067718457507011652011-11-24T12:28:00.001-05:002011-11-24T13:04:21.204-05:00

This November, the weather here in Port Credit (Mississauga) has been fair, and generous with mild days. Though occasional storms have blown most of the fall colour off the trees, a few hardy yellows and reds are still to be seen. Here are a few pictures and a video of the scene outside. Early Morning Frost at Saddington Park Port Credit  I took this picture of the frost on the lawns at

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-40530633796365888592011-10-11T12:07:00.000-04:002011-10-11T12:16:38.468-04:00

The monarch migration this year was later and sparser than in years past, so I was happy to see these butterflies in some numbers on September 24. My timeline for monarchs migrating in Mississauga is indelibly set as the 11th of September, as on that date in 2001, in the midst of morning news and disbelief, the cosmos in the garden were covered with monarchs: Beauty amidst horror. And so, each

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-72432146698140340182011-09-11T12:09:00.001-04:002011-10-11T12:22:48.588-04:00

Here are some pictures taken on Labour Day, the final day of the annual CNE (Canadian National Exhibition) in Toronto. Labour Day weekend means the annual air show is on, too, so despite the chilly weather and threatening rain, the EX was packed! Taking the GO Train to Exhibition Place station is likely the easiest way to get there and back. Bonus: You can buy CNE entrance tickets when you buy

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-13489400921135518462011-08-13T15:10:00.000-04:002011-09-17T10:23:55.645-04:00

Two weeks left in the Great Ontario Salmon Derby 2011! Here are some pictures taken at the Port Credit weigh station operating for the duration of the derby: July 9 to August 27, 2011.Update: See video at bottom of post of GOSD fish-off start Sept 17. Port Credit Mississauga Marina Boat Launch Access  Enter the Port Credit marina boat launch from Front Street South, the first entrance right

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-25005071626086233072011-08-06T13:13:00.004-04:002011-08-06T13:50:12.714-04:00

Summer in Port Credit Mississauga (Ontario, Canada): Here are some pictures of boats, a helicopter, the full moon and men on a raft along the Lake Ontario waterfront near the mouth of the Credit River. Something is always happening in Port Credit! TRCA Electro Fishing Boat Credit River  Just after sunset one evening, I noticed the Toronto Region Conservation Authority staff on the

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-2532303510155028862011-06-28T13:59:00.009-04:002011-07-02T16:27:10.704-04:00

Fireworks mark the finale of the Canada Day celebrations in Port Credit (Mississauga) Ontario on July 1, 2011, but the fun starts long before that! Port Credit starts 'Painting the Town Red' with the Canada Day Parade at 11 a.m. And to 'Make It Right', the Grand Marshals for the parade are Mike Holmes, host of Holmes on Homes and Holmes Inspection, and CityTV reporter Francis D'Souza.Miss Canada

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0Memorial Park, Mississauga, ON, Canada43.5512138 -79.5877345999999843.5495408 -79.59056559999998 43.552886799999996 -79.58490359999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-21907924726263909142011-06-09T13:44:00.006-04:002011-06-25T14:16:00.124-04:00

Summer in Port Credit (Mississauga) Ontario is brimming with lots of fun activities and events. Some are one-time festivals, and others are open all summer long. Here's a list of a few things to do in June and July in Port Credit. Dragon Boat Races this weekend (June 11, 12) at the Canoe and Kayak Regatta 9am-4pm on the Credit River. Great spot to watch is from Memorial Park. Brueckner

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com3105 Lakeshore Rd W, Mississauga, ON L5H 2E1, Canada43.5501338 -79.5873058999999943.550128799999996 -79.5873154 43.5501388 -79.58729639999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-70136601367867276242011-05-31T13:20:00.004-04:002011-05-31T13:27:18.901-04:00

The Port Credit Farmers Market kicks off the 2011 season with a Bollywood-style bang this Saturday, June 4, as the market opening date coincides with the City of Mississauga Bollywood in the City events for the International Indian Film Festival. There'll be music, dancing and good times, and great market stalls, rain or shine! Here are some pictures from Farmers Market 2010. See map and links

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-16376745321384781942011-05-19T12:46:00.000-04:002011-05-19T12:46:07.315-04:00

Mayor McCallion brings the Memorial Cup to Port Credit Mississauga to mark the first time these national hockey championship games will be played in the Toronto area. That the  finals are in Mississauga are a bonus and reflect the avid fan base for the Mississauga St Michael's Majors hockey team. Peel Police Boat on Credit River Port Credit Mississauga  Thick fog gave cover to the Peel Police

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-77828135480099249152011-05-11T13:05:00.011-04:002011-05-11T13:23:18.432-04:00

Environmental activism book launch at Revival, Toronto Ontario In The Next Eco-Warriors, Emily Hunter, a young Canadian freelance eco-journalist and environmental activist, edits the stories (including her own) of 22 young men and women and their efforts to save the planet. These young people are just a few of the current generation of eco-warriors; passionate, committed, articulate, inspiring.

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-62628219211472657602011-04-25T13:58:00.001-04:002011-04-25T14:06:39.996-04:00

Coast Guard boats, new buoy Lake Ontario, outboard canoe fishing, bike tricks Credit River breakwater, man in a tree:  What are Things I Saw Last Week CCGS Griffon Lake Ontario at Port Credit Saddington Park The Canadian Coast Guard was in town, so to speak, off Port Credit harbour at Saddington Park. I'd seen this ship a day earlier, but couldn't get a photo due to fog and rain. Using this

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-49506287135357501032011-03-26T17:56:00.002-04:002011-04-01T14:43:54.555-04:00

This year Spring is very slow in showing itself here in southern Ontario. We've seen a few determined robins, and a few dozen migrating trumpeter swans that stopped at Port Credit on their way north. A few valiant (foolhardy?) spring bulbs were spotted, working their way through the frozen soil. But March 2011 is one of the chilliest in years, and I, for one, am more than ready for warm weather.

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-25030600561925545162011-02-23T12:45:00.005-05:002011-02-23T17:38:51.666-05:00

Comparing Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, NSW Australia in Summer  Nicely back in snowy Ontario Canada, waiting for spring, with my memories and pictures of my Summer south of the Equator trip to keep me warm! Here are some things I learned on my trip, posted in no particular order. I should mention that this was not my first trip to any of these destinations, but it was the longest trip by a few

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-5423183647235875982011-01-26T13:24:00.005-05:002011-02-23T12:54:15.440-05:00

International flights Customer-Service, food, comfort, safety FAIL  Buenos Aires Argentina Domestic Airport Terminal I'd flown Aerolineas Argentinas and partners a number of times, all with good impressions and flights, so I had no qualms about booking a recent round trip from Buenos Aires to Sydney. Besides, the AA ticket price was almost $500 lower than either LAN Chile or Qantas. I believe

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-29738450139142705972010-12-03T10:33:00.007-05:002011-11-28T21:06:43.501-05:00

St Andrew's Memorial Presbyterian Church Footprints of Christmas Show 2011 Dec 1-2-3 Here are pictures from 2010 : This week, St Andrew's Memorial Presbyterian Church in Port Credit is holding its 13th annual Christmas show pageant called Footprints of Christmas,  and this is an event well worth taking in if you're in the area. Here are some pictures I took on the opening night, December 2,

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-49987246823788599372010-11-03T14:24:00.003-04:002010-11-03T14:31:19.128-04:00

Fishing from a boat on a pond and cheddar cheese: Cracker Barrel Commercial A gorgeous fall day, a quiet reflecting pond, a boy and his grandfather fishing from a small boat: Cracker Barrel Cheddar Cheese commercial coming to a television near you soon. And when you see it, know that you are seeing this lovely spot in Port Credit Ontario, just steps from the Credit River and Lake Ontario. A few

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-42719076829782601152010-10-19T11:08:00.000-04:002010-10-19T12:47:48.832-04:00

20 Artisans, 8 Studios, Free Tour ~ Fun Day + Christmas, Personal Shopping OpportunitySouth Mississauga area artisans came to the Port Credit Farmers Market yesterday with a sampling of one-of-a kind crafts to be featured at the upcoming Artisan Studio Tour taking place the weekend of Oct 23, 24, 2010. An incredible 20 professional artisans living and working in the Port Credit Mineola area will

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-83385257079779694792010-10-15T00:01:00.004-04:002010-10-15T07:31:14.979-04:00

Water water everywhere and nary a drop to drink : The Rime of the Ancient Mariner; Coleridge, 1797-8 Water: The world has lots of it, more than enough to meet our global needs. But like Goldilocks on her quest for the perfect bowl of porridge, there seems to be something wrong with it: Too much, too little, too salty, too dirty, too cold or too hot. Okay: So the world has lots of water is a

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-87847598585384724282010-09-16T15:27:00.006-04:002011-09-29T19:20:35.215-04:00

Port Credit locations Open Doors Saturday, September 18, 2010, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. [Doors Open Mississauga 2011 is Saturday October 1 - same hours!] Weekends are busy times in Port Credit, with major festivals or a series of smaller events taking place from June until October, a dizzying array of fun events from Canada Day, Waterfront, Busker and Jazz festivals, to boat shows, Art Walks and

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-57271239176224609932010-09-09T11:15:00.002-04:002010-09-09T11:20:55.466-04:00

This summer I've taken a few videos of the Port Credit area of Mississauga Ontario Canada: Salmon Fishing, Electro Fishing, a Canadian Racing Pigeon as well as a Busker at Buskerfest. Have a look, leave a comment, or post a video reply on my YouTube Channel (right menu). Here's the salmon fishing video I took early evening at Saddington Park in Port Credit. This fisherman and his friend did an

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-54616653875688323082010-08-22T12:37:00.007-04:002011-08-20T08:00:40.925-04:00

August 2011 Update: Buskerfest 6 is set for August 19, 20, 21 -- Friday night starting at 7 pm, Saturday from 1 pm, and Sunday from 1 pm. Same locations in downtown Port Credit, with some favorite buskers and some new acts, too! Buskerfest 5 was off to a good start on Friday night, and for most of Saturday, the rain did indeed stay away. At least until 9 p.m. or so, when torrential downpours

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-67427443091051503362010-08-16T14:51:00.004-04:002010-08-22T14:05:29.827-04:00

Update: Pictures, etc August 22, 2010 this postWhat is a Busker Festival? Buskers are gutsy street performers. It's theatre in the street, comedians, contortionists, magicians and mimes, sword-swallowers and human statues. It's jugglers, escape artists and acrobats. Each performer tries to out performs the others, all for a toss of a coin in the hat. Buskerfest Sign Brueckner Rhododendron

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-87282948939763197372010-07-21T16:24:00.005-04:002011-06-02T18:46:12.516-04:00

The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival, taking place July 23, 24, 25, is its first dragon boat carnival ever! And four of the more than 200 local and international teams, from 12 countries and regions are Canadian dragon boat racing teams from the province of British Columbia. The newly launched Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival is one of the three Mega Events earmarked by the Hong Kong SAR Government

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-56904083422719168242010-07-16T21:55:00.008-04:002011-04-26T10:40:44.857-04:00

Port Credit is set to rock again this weekend with free fun events: The Port Credit Outdoor Art Show at the Credit Village Marina and the Native Pow Wow and Metis Fiddlers and more at Saddington Park. Nesaart.com ~ Lighthouses ~ Port Credit Outdoor Art Show Starting with the Port Credit Outdoor Art Show (there's a band, too, with live music): Nebojsa Jovanovic, Burlington Ontario, works

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-28685568161163846662010-07-01T17:12:00.005-04:002011-07-02T07:32:04.131-04:00

July 1 2011 Here's the video of the parade on Canada Day one year later: July 1 2010: Canada Day in Port Credit (Mississauga, Ontario) is a double celebration: Canada marks 143 years, and Port Credit marks 175! Yay, Us!! Port Credit celebrated with a parade, a pancake breakfast, Heritage Mississauga displays, and lots of Canada Flags in a sea of red and white. And tonight there will be

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-62054885507223107702010-06-28T10:25:00.013-04:002010-07-03T10:10:57.502-04:00

Update: Fireworks Video posted at bottom this page. Related: Parade pictures posted on  Canada Day Parade Port Credit July 1 2010 Mississauga is likely the only city in Canada to hold three separate Canada Day celebrations on July 1! The villages of Port Credit and Streetsville each hold a ceremony and fireworks, and other events, and the City of Mississauga is hosting its own fireworks and

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-22246413814540752132010-06-19T11:43:00.002-04:002010-06-19T11:48:18.381-04:00

The Mississauga Waterfront Festival in Port Credit has to be one of the top Ontario festivals, with concerts, midway with games of chance and rides, and lots of activities and events geared to children, and it is happening this weekend! Here are some pictures from Friday night, of the midway and the harbour. Click on an image to enlarge, then click the Back button to return to this page. Midway

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-88643087593855833752010-06-17T13:51:00.004-04:002010-06-17T14:12:12.551-04:00

It's here ! For Father's Day weekend! June 18, 19, 20 ! The Mississauga Waterfront Festival! In Port Credit (Ontario, Canada). The MWF gets better and better, and this year promises to be fabulous!  Here are some pictures of Port Credit waterfront views and some tips on how to get to here and still be in a happy frame of mind to enjoy it all! See some pictures of Memorial park and Port Credit

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-5503493450517137572010-06-15T11:25:00.001-04:002010-06-15T17:02:35.794-04:00

There's another crew filming in Port Credit (Mississauga, Ontario,  Canada): Covert Affairs. I finally found the time to find out the name of what was filming yesterday (Monday June 14). I'm not sure if they are still filming today as I haven't yet been out to look, but I'll take my camera when I go this afternoon, and, if the film crew trailers and telltale red cones are still there, I'll get

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-42963165558026328762010-06-11T10:57:00.004-04:002011-11-30T16:30:40.989-05:00

Kayaks, tankers, sailboats, Coast Guard vessel, Zodiak, Dragon Boat and a helicopter: The view at the mouth of the Credit River at Lake Ontario at Port Credit is an ever-changing panorama, as varied as the types of watercraft! Here are my pictures taken over the course of one day. [Click to enlarge; Back to return] Credit River Meets Lake Ontario in Port Credit The view from the west: Boats

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-76475609568895581382010-06-10T12:00:00.009-04:002010-07-01T13:09:07.911-04:00

July 01 2010 : Volunteers volunteered - Thanks! Great parade!! See all Mississauga Fireworks On July 1 2010 locations on the Canada Day Events post. Canada Day Mississauga Port Credit"We love a parade but we need help!" says Brenda Armstrong, Volunteer Coordinator for  Paint the Town Red. "The Port Credit Canada Day Committee is looking for volunteers to assist with our celebrations on July 1,

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-2008834946762559942010-05-20T11:56:00.002-04:002010-05-24T12:11:49.292-04:00

Springtime in Port Credit! Great time to get out for a walk along Mississauga's section of the Waterfront Trail along Lake Ontario. So that's what I did, camera in hand, taking random pictures of sailboats, the CN Tower and even the lighthouse and City Hall. Sailboats Lake Ontario ~ View From Port Credit MississaugaSailboats dotted Lake Ontario, a sure sign that summer is here, no matter the

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-33223417611650119412010-04-21T17:13:00.004-04:002010-04-21T17:23:26.551-04:00

After a year's construction, Shoppers Drug Mart is set to open Thursday, April 22, 2010 at its new location in our neighbourhood in Port Credit, Ontario.  Here are some pictures to show how a vacant car lot became a large, modern pharmacy in under a year. Work Begins on New SDM store May 2009This is a new store for the current Shoppers Drug Mart at nearby Credit Landing Shopping Centre, 228

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-18413784575730196632010-03-08T17:34:00.003-05:002010-06-15T17:09:33.326-04:00

The Showcase television series Lost Girl is filming today in Port Credit (Mississauga Ontario), not far from the location used in the Hallmark movie 'That Russell Girl'  (see this post). Base camp set up on Sunday at the foot of Mississauga Road South of Lakeshore Road at the edge of Saddington Park and will likely be gone by Tuesday.  Lost Girl Base Camp Port Credit Saddington Park Today, the

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-19008990193395156532010-03-04T18:57:00.000-05:002010-03-04T18:57:28.152-05:00

March is coming in like a lamb here in Mississauga, all warm and sunny and calm. And it gave me a terrific case of Spring Fever today! And the only cure for Spring Fever is to give in to it, to abandon all thoughts of work, get outside and bask in the sun.  Lake Ontario Port Credit View to Hamilton  And Spring Fever or not, I do what I always do when I need to get outside: I head to and through

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-80360334996566648932010-02-23T16:01:00.002-05:002010-02-23T16:09:20.869-05:00

A very sunny Sunday in a fairly mild winter in Port Credit, Ontario (see this post for details) meant that the ice on the Credit River was rapidly melting. And this normal, natural occurrence offered the illusion that ducks were walking on water. [Click on image to enlarge, then click Back to return to this page]  Gulls on Ice Port Credit Ontario Just south of the landmark Lighthouse, the west

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-6379349005916910442010-02-22T18:16:00.004-05:002010-02-23T17:17:58.010-05:00

Bright sunshine, warm weather, no wind and a Sunday afternoon: If you could resist taking a walk along the Waterfront Trail in Mississauga yesterday, you're a better man than I am!   Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens - Lake Ontario And so it was that I headed to Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens on the Lakeshore and sauntered (yes, sauntered!) along the Waterfront Trail through the gardens and Ben

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-71013354710271251782010-01-25T09:18:00.006-05:002010-05-04T09:00:58.943-04:00

Just got back from a spur of the moment winter getaway in Costa Rica! Saw crocs up close in the wild, hiked around the tops of volcanoes in cloud forests, and met lots of great people! Croc River Boat Ride Costa Rica near Punta Leona And though I traveled alone, I sure wasn't lonely. Not at all! From the Canadian owner and staff at the Adventure Inn in San Jose, to the guests at this small (34-

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-3896869344425600922009-12-31T10:59:00.001-05:002011-12-29T20:39:11.816-05:00

New Year's Eve 2011 Fireworks City Hall Celebration Square Details City Mississauga (weather permitting and it looks like it will!) December 2009: Don't expect fireworks in Mississauga on New Year's Eve. In these parts, fireworks generally take place during the warmer months, like in Port Credit on Canada Day (July 1). But Mississauga has a long tradition of marking New Year's Day, with the

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-27272408416862950192009-12-20T11:20:00.007-05:002011-11-30T16:31:18.142-05:00

The 46 annual Christmas Bird Count took place yesterday, Saturday, December 19. Last year, on this same day, there was a huge storm (see this blog post Lake Ontario storm). This year, we saw perfect weather for counting birds in the morning, and in the afternoon, for cheering on the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay in Port Credit (Mississauga), Ontario. Harlequin Duck with Mallard South Peel

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-64265124227224407362009-12-19T19:56:00.003-05:002009-12-19T20:03:06.757-05:00

 The Olympic Torch Relay came to Mississauga today, and after ceremonies at City Centre, including runs by Mayor Hazel McCallion and olympian Kurt Browning, the torch relay headed south on Hurontario (Highway 10) to Lakeshore Road in Port Credit. Here are a few pictures of the torch relay, and a short video to give some idea of the happy crowds that lined the relay route. Click on an image to

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-51093658292920057582009-11-27T18:54:00.002-05:002009-11-27T19:07:16.677-05:00

Lake Aquitane and Lake Wabukayne are small lakes in the Meadowvale area in northwest Mississauga. At first glance, they seem simply a picturesque addition to these city parks and a haven for urban wild life. Lake Aquitane Sign Meadowvale Community Centre But these two lakes serve another purpose: They collect and contain surface water runoff in this densely populated part ot the city. After

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-20603735396386296612009-11-26T11:48:00.006-05:002010-06-30T11:33:20.656-04:00

Mallard ducks are commonly seen in Mississauga (Ontario, Canada), but wood ducks are a rare delight! When I saw my first one the other day, a male at Lake Aquitane, I took his picture as well as photos of other wildlife -- mallard ducks, a sparrow and a gray squirrel -- that were in and around the lake. Click on image to enlarge, then click the Back button to return to this page. Mississauga

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-86666251307172065562009-11-11T19:46:00.003-05:002011-11-30T16:31:56.191-05:00

Yesterday I walked along the Lake Ontario shoreline and the Waterfront Trail as it passes through Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens in Port Credit, and playing with my new camera, I tried out different shots of the lake, the birds, and the shadows and reflections cast by the swans. Here's the better of the pictures, including one lone oak leaf. Today, the sun finally came out just after noon, and

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-2684453379197955112009-11-08T16:57:00.004-05:002009-12-22T18:14:39.155-05:00

Such a fabulous, warm and sunny Fall day, it seemed everyone in Port Credit headed to the waterfront to walk the trail, to fish in Lake Ontario at the mouth of the Credit River, to canoe, cycle, row and kayak, and marvel at the last of the gorgeous colours of the fall leaves. Here are a few pictures to show you how to celebrate the gift of a summer day in late Fall! Click on a picture to enlarge

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-71443555267355279992009-11-02T18:40:00.003-05:002009-11-02T18:48:04.617-05:00

Squirrels in black, gray and red, a passing freighter on Lake Ontario and a sunny Autumn afternoon don't have a lot to do with travel, though an argument could be made for the freighter: Some Great Lakes boats will take paying passengers from Thunder Bay to Quebec City.  But really, I was so pleased to finally get a picture of a red squirrel, I just had to show you! But first, the black and the

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-52738711607960927212009-10-26T16:27:00.002-04:002009-10-26T16:28:16.218-04:00

The Fall Colours along Mississauga Road from Port Credit to Streetville are close to peak colour today, with leaves shades of gold, red, orange almost fully covering the trees. The change is more complete in the Streetsville area. Here are a few pictures I took this afternoon along the Culham Trail as it passes near Eglinton Avenue. Highway 403 Mississauga Road Overpass On my drive up

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-54929709985407012982009-10-25T17:56:00.005-04:002010-10-10T11:59:29.273-04:00

Such a sunny Sunday in Mississauga! Maybe the last chance to take in the Fall colours this year. I took my camera with me when I walked up to the grocery store near the PetroCanada lot on Lakeshore Road West in Port Credit. But first, I took a quick walk through Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens and happened upon a mallard couple in Tecumseh Creek. Maple Trees on Maple Street at Lakeshore Road West

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-3919492644753951172009-10-21T13:05:00.003-04:002009-10-26T16:31:30.155-04:00

I stopped by the Bradley Museum in Mississauga to check for changing Fall colors on the maple trees, and happened upon an Art Walk as a bonus! Here are a few pictures of this historic property, with links at the bottom of the page for more information. Tip: Click on image to enlarge, then click Back button to return to this page. Bradley Museum Sign Post Bradley Museum and Bradley House are at

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-21944047042739541692009-10-17T20:24:00.006-04:002011-09-20T14:36:45.453-04:00

Update September 20, 2011: Just back from this area and I noticed that the colors are starting to turn now -- a blush of orange, rust and yellows stipple the summertime green. Best guess is that full color within two weeks. I took these pictures -- and bear in mind I hold the copyright :-) --  of fall foliage colours in Oakville (Ontario, Canada) this afternoon, and will post them here as fast

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-26643027217206168022009-10-15T09:05:00.002-04:002009-10-15T09:11:55.324-04:00

Just in time for Blog Action Day, my discovery of Google News Archives lets me time travel through climate change in the media. The news archives show how, in just a few short decades, stories about climate change shifted from an upcoming Ice Age to imminent Global Warming; A polar-shift sea-change in a very short time. How did this happen? World Getting Colder Not that long ago, during the

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-70119917094566543882009-10-06T11:09:00.013-04:002009-12-22T18:33:14.591-05:00

I'm back from my RV Maritimes Canada road trip to New Brunswick (NB) and Prince Edward Island (PEI). Here are some of my pictures from Cavendish, Moncton, Dieppe, Hopewell Rocks, Saint John, St George and St Andrews. (Note -- see comments at bottom for 2010 BC Winter Olympics RV park Vancouver) Holiday Inn Express Airport Dieppe NB Loved my room at the HIE at Dieppe. Close to the airport, free

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-23868804144374414912009-10-05T09:13:00.014-04:002010-06-30T11:56:01.711-04:00

I simply LOVE my new camera! It's a , with the lenses I need to take great pictures on the fly! Here are the first photos I took in the Port Credit area of Mississauga -- a sunset, the full moon of the Mid Autumn Festival, and the raindrops on my window. NOTE Click on image to enlarge, then hit Back Button to return to this page. Full Moon ~ First Picture The first night the camera moved into

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-19638143685243536592009-10-03T15:21:00.031-04:002009-12-22T18:20:34.468-05:00

Today I toured Riverwood Conservancy, a City of Mississauga (Ontario) park, and I couldn't have found a better tour guide than Dr. Nina Barabas, co-author of Wildflowers of Riverwood, a four-year labour of love to identify and photograph the wildflowers in this city park. Riverwood Park Sign - Parking Lot Riverwood Park is located northeast of Burnhamthorpe Road and the Credit River. Turn

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-76412162848521471922009-09-19T10:33:00.013-04:002011-09-29T19:17:54.439-04:00

Doors Open Mississauga 2011 is Saturday October 1 from 10 to 4. Check out the Lighthouse in Port Credit! Doors Open Mississauga 2010 Listed Here September 2009 : Doors Open Mississauga is on today and I hope to get a behind the scenes look at at least two of the participating venues. St Peter's Anglican Church Mississauga Ontario One Doors Open I hope to visit is St Peter's Anglican

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-44227373380229837572009-09-07T17:53:00.006-04:002009-09-07T19:01:20.125-04:00

Headed out this afternoon to Mississauga Lakefront Promenade Park for a Labour Day picnic. With its splash pad, picnic tables and boats in the marina, it was a perfect spot to spend a lovely Labour Day!Bonus was from the top of a hill facing east, we had clear views to the CN Tower, and the CNE Air Show! Mind you, from this distance, it's a good thing the Blue Angels (US) and the Snowbirds (

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-43280117341118398692009-08-05T10:52:00.015-04:002011-11-30T16:32:37.016-05:00

A thunderstorm in Toronto (Ontario, Canada) cut short my tour of Queen's Park, OCAD (Ontario College Art and Design), AGO, the C N Tower and Kensington Market, but the rainy afternoon was offset by the lovely morning and a good lunch. (Click on image to enlarge, then click Back button to return to this page.) Queen's Park Toronto Ontario This historic building is Queen's Park, at University

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-21133070646126265912009-07-29T15:33:00.008-04:002011-11-30T16:33:08.442-05:00

A walk through Toronto's Chinatown area along Spadina south of College is like being in China itself. It's a popular location for movie filming, and a mecca for shopping in shops that could easily be lifted whole from any city in China -- Beijing, Nanning, Shanghai or Hong Kong. Here are some pictures of Toronto's Chinatown I took earlier this week. If you've been to China, you'll see what I

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-58758637386996859382009-07-21T13:01:00.010-04:002009-07-21T16:04:33.576-04:00

Hong Kong is a busy city --there's really no best time of year to travel there. But that's good, too, because it means that there is always something cool to do!That's one of the reasons Hong Kong is my favorite city to visit. But what this does mean is that you have to book your hotel well in advance or risk finding no room at the inn of your choice.Like this fall: October 1 is China National

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-65534140392690486802009-07-18T15:44:00.014-04:002010-07-16T22:19:19.964-04:00

Update July 16, 2010 The Art Show is on this weekend in Port Credit. Port Credit's 11th annual outdoor art show is in this weekend (July 17, 18, 19) at the Port Credit Marina (Mississauga, ON), so I walked into the village this afternoon to have a look. Chatted with some of the artists, met a TMAC member (I used to be one, back in the day), and took a few pictures of the sights. [click photos

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-6111344255444647532009-07-17T10:55:00.014-04:002011-11-30T16:33:32.489-05:00

Travel is my thing -- not doing reviews of movies. But having been lucky enough to attend an advance screening of Julie & Julia last night (a few weeks in advance of the August 7 release date), I thought I'd jot down a few thoughts. Call it a review, if you like, but for what it's worth, here goes. And IMO it's impossible to 'spoil' Julie & Julia, so apologies in advance if this proves not

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-83896333876852597912009-07-16T10:25:00.009-04:002009-07-16T12:15:41.912-04:00

In Toronto on Sunday to take in the Art Show at Nathan Phillips Square, we first swung by the Cosmopolitan hotel a few blocks away at 8 Colborne Street to check out a few of the suites.Random, impromptu hotel site inspections are not one of our usual pursuits: Daughter has booked a room / suite at the Cosmopolitan for an early August wedding, and we wanted to get first-hand look at the layout and

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-64061926609965582812009-07-14T12:34:00.009-04:002009-12-22T18:40:31.409-05:00

Sunday was the final day for the Toronto Outdoor Art show at Nathan Phillips Square. Here are some pictures I took of works by a few of the many talented artists and potters. I gave up taking photos as there were just too many to contemplate. Also showing were a number of jewelery designers and goldsmiths. Such lovely work, and since I am a sucker for shiny objects, I was in my glory. Artist

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-9801319166429331952009-07-13T07:00:00.000-04:002009-07-13T08:22:59.896-04:00

While Port Credit along Lakeshore Road seems to have escaped the wrath of Saturday's storm (see post July 11), the Cawthra Road neighbourhood south of the QEW - South Service Road has been hit very hard indeed. (See Toronto Star story). The last I heard, full hydro service will not be restored for several days.With Cawthra Road still closed to traffic, my neighbour John walked over there this

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-65440282403246840152009-07-12T10:36:00.009-04:002011-11-30T16:34:06.146-05:00

Here are a few more random photos from my road trip through the Kootenays in B.C. (British Columbia, Canada), starting with a giant rhododendron north of Nelson, then a fast return trip to Kaslo to catch the Kootenay Bay - Crawford Bay Ferry. And we left Nelson around 2 p.m., and made it all the way to check-in at a Creston motel by 9 p.m. Hinged on catching the ferry, but I had a great driver

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-37473648368040397222009-07-11T13:21:00.011-04:002009-07-13T08:24:33.947-04:00

An early morning thunderstorm in Port Credit with wild winds and heavy rains brought down at least one large tree and large branches from many others in the Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens and the complex of condo townhouses at Shawnmarr and Lakeshore Roads.With winds gusting to 80 kph / 50 mph (est.) this morning, I'm surprised there wasn't more damage. Here are some pictures taken following the

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-25535950293557960772009-07-02T20:15:00.006-04:002009-07-02T20:42:36.033-04:00

As the rain pours down yet again, I am using the time to tidy up my iPhoto pictures: Labeling Events, Faces, and pictures. And in the process, I came across some misfiled photos, and thought I'd post them here. There's a rhododendron, a cleome, and a red bud tree in full bloom.And sailboats with spinnakers on Lake Ontario, and a neat cloud formation and two photos of the sunset the other night.

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-37285213612168426172009-07-01T14:14:00.006-04:002010-03-09T15:04:00.988-05:00

Update March 2010: Click on image to enlarge Fundraiser for 2010 Fireworks in Port Credit: If you enjoy this annual event, then here's your chance to take part!  -----original post July 1 2009--------- Here are some pictures I took today -- Canada Day -- at Port Credit Memorial Park in Mississauga, Ontario. Though rain clouds threaten to dampen the celebrations, we're all hoping that the rains

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-53979161501069294602009-06-24T11:02:00.015-04:002009-10-05T13:50:33.033-04:00

Update October 5 2009: Environmental Assessment completed per City of Mississauga letter to stakeholders. Project file report public review period Oct 01 to Oct 30 2009 at Port Credit library: 20 Lakeshore Road East of Credit River. Contact details bottom of original post.---------Finally! The proposed fix for the Port Credit (Ontario) intersection of Stavebank and Lakeshore Road in Mississauga!

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-24236488585656101312009-06-22T14:19:00.003-04:002009-06-23T14:00:27.289-04:00

I had booked a direct flight on Westjet from Toronto (YYZ) to Kelowna (YLW) (see earlier post) and I want to go on record here and now as saying, for me, this is the best way to get from the East to the West!The main reason I booked Westjet to Kelowna is I swore I'd never fly to Kamloops again via Air Canada. Westjet now flies to Kamloops (YKA) but it's a puddle jumper flight from Toronto. I like

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-62896084890480922412009-06-21T10:46:00.010-04:002009-06-27T11:05:51.836-04:00

I'm back from a few weeks' travel 'out west' -- from Toronto to B.C. and Alberta. Though I have toured the Canadian Rockies many times over the years, it had been quite a few since I had last gotten vertigo trying to see the top of a sheer cliff or had occasion to panic on the steep grades and curves of the mountain highways.But a road trip through the National Parks -- Banff, Yoho, Kootenay

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-48776834535451616782009-06-08T14:05:00.005-04:002009-06-08T14:43:16.589-04:00

Heading out on a road trip to the BC Kootenays and Rocky Mountains. I have my ticket from Toronto (YYZ) to Kelowna (YLW), and a friend with a BC-Alberta highway map and a packed lunch meeting me in Kelowna tomorrow morning. Other than that, our itinerary is flexible. Very flexible. The only thing I really can do without seeing are bears. I can't relax properly when I know bears are lurking.But

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-56517013970010828992009-06-02T10:05:00.003-04:002009-06-02T10:48:46.975-04:00

I should know better, I really should! When you find a cheap flight, you should book it right away and then think about it. You can always cancel within 24 hours of booking for no penalty, at least on Air Canada and Westjet.I knew this. I really did. But for some reason I thought that the flight would 'keep' overnight, so I could sleep on it. And this lapse in judgment cost me $100 CAD more,

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-59183696609746223732009-05-23T12:06:00.004-04:002009-05-23T12:58:58.477-04:00

On this Memorial Day weekend (USA) and Bank Holiday (England), and plain old spring weekend here in Canada, I offer a few random pictures taken in Port Credit, Ontario : Trilliums, Irises and a lone Mallard duck.Trilliums ~ Ontario Provincial FlowerA few days ago, when I was weeding at Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens, I came across this clump of trilliums as I was heading home for the night. I

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-12518638497993884562009-05-20T18:21:00.003-04:002009-05-20T18:30:00.458-04:00

Are these true morels?The other evening on a walk in the woods along the Lake in Mississauga, I spotted what I believe are morels, a 'mushroom' if you will, but really an edible fungus.From my description, my mom thinks they are morels, but she hasn't seen them in the flesh. The time of year (late May), the location where I found them (woods, near pine trees, rich soil), plus their general

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-62334029936253556802009-05-12T18:42:00.010-04:002009-05-15T12:57:10.665-04:00

These swans, mother goose and goslings were having a lovely afternoon on Lake Ontario today. I'd stopped by Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens in Port Credit (Ontario) with a friend visiting from Australia, to see if the rhodos were coming into bloom. They are, and I posted pictures on that blog (link at bottom of this page).Three Swans A'Swimming ~ Lake Ontario, Port CreditAfter admiring the rhodos,

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-54505193649670368542009-05-04T13:33:00.006-04:002009-05-04T14:19:50.990-04:00

Here are the Mother's Day brunch and dinner notices for two restaurants in Mississauga: The Waterside Inn and Ten Restaurant and Wine Bar, both in Port Credit. As well, Ten's parent resto -- On The Curve, near Square One -- is celebrating Cinco de Mayo tomorrow (May 5).First for Mother's Day - if there are any seats still to be had for this busiest of holidays. If you want to take mom out for

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-78336771076315532822009-05-02T18:16:00.005-04:002009-05-02T18:34:21.228-04:00

I've been watching for the magnolias at Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens (BRG) in Port Credit (Ontario, Canada) to come into flower, and today I could see that most of them were in bloom. But what I didn't expect to see were the goslings on the other side of the park. First the magnolias:Brueckner Memorial Magnolia with RobinHere's the small magnolia tree just at the entrance to BRG. At it's base

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-65496393301251837542009-04-21T14:30:00.009-04:002010-04-28T10:40:48.233-04:00

Two new things today at Brueckner Rhododendron Gardens in Mississauga (Canada) : A sign of spring and a sign for the park. First, the sign of spring: Near the south bridge, closest to the lake, a flush of pink near the waterfront trail proved to be a pink rhododendron just starting to bloom. Pink Rhododendron in Bud - Mississauga ON The rhodo blossoms were just starting to open, and I had to

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-45205777718707112072009-04-15T12:06:00.003-04:002009-04-15T13:00:30.948-04:00

More cheap armchair travel via The Amazing Race (TAR) reruns on OLN in Ontario, Canada! And TAR 7, currently showing, is one of my all time favorites: Rob and Amber, of Survivor Marquesas fame. Boston Rob, as he was nicknamed, showed a surprising skill set, and a lot of common sense and people skills. With his good humour and cheekiness, he added a lot to both reality shows.Last night's episode

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-62934817352979394622009-04-14T10:50:00.008-04:002010-07-14T07:16:43.672-04:00

Update June 28 2010: On a walk today through to Rattray Marsh, we noticed two food vendors near the main building in Jack Darling Park, and that the splash pad is open. Construction of the water treatment plant will continue for about 2 more years. Easter weekend's good weather (though a bit chilly) begged me to go for a walk along the Waterfront Trail to Rattray Marsh from Jack Darling Park

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-66506539619745700312009-04-06T09:34:00.004-04:002009-04-06T10:25:01.588-04:00

Though I've only been on Twitter.com for about two weeks, I am really loving it for the short, real-time tweets on travel, websites, and more.Here's a sampling of a few of the twitterposts to illustrate some of the interesting (to me, anyhow) and useful posts.Just today, tips on how to choose the right avatar/ bio pic for your social networks (see avatar tips). According to that post, my own bio

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-41963497071355988072009-04-04T19:26:00.005-04:002009-04-13T15:12:06.180-04:00

At Brueckner Rhododendron Garden this afternoon (Mississauga, Ontario), I walked up the trail past the sleeping rhodos, azaleas and forsythia to the footbridge over the small creek that runs through the garden to empty into Lake Ontario.As I stood on the bridge, I could see at once that the creek now took a dog leg to the right. Hmmm. This is new. This small creek formerly trickled straight south

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-69113945094425856202009-04-01T11:38:00.006-04:002009-07-12T12:02:17.156-04:00

Doing some trial videos and animations using my travel pictures before my next trip. Using the video option on my camera is fairly new to me, as are the animoto.com still picture animations. Editing video using iMovie, which came with my Macbook, is also very new. I want to become familiar with all of them before I travel.To share iMovies on my blog or website, I create the iMovie first, and

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-85874549255775057902009-03-31T09:37:00.006-04:002009-04-06T09:30:29.192-04:00

One of the most frequently asked questions that I am asked about travel is, 'Is It Safe To Drink The Water In . . . ' followed by the name of the country, be it Borneo, Portugal, Chile, China, Haiti, Ethiopia, Thailand etc. And most often, what the asker would like to know is 'Will drinking the local water make me sick?'And most often, I refer them to a page on my main site ( travel medications

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-43463295639526493662009-03-19T11:44:00.008-04:002009-03-19T15:19:35.403-04:00

I've been exploring the wonderful world of Twitter and Tweets for the past week, and yesterday, I learned about a new application to combine all our online presences: Unhub.com . Here's how it came about.For many months now, I've largely ignored the Twitterati: Can you wonder why, based on the text on the Twitter home page? Do my friends and family really need to know each time I have a coffee,

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-51021542689574846692009-03-13T11:17:00.006-04:002009-03-14T16:00:32.443-04:00

A few more signs of the Easter (read: Spring) Season in today's mail:From Hong Kong, a reminder of the annual Easter egg hunt and from right here in Port Credit, Ontario, of the annual Easter Sunday Brunch at TEN Restaurant.First, news from Hong Kong Tourism Board :Over the Easter weekend, families will descend on Discovery Bay for the ever-popular Easter Egg Treasure Hunt. Some 20,000 eggs will

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-77827155672541866302009-03-11T13:51:00.009-04:002009-04-16T11:09:59.218-04:00

The Amazing Race (TAR) reruns are currently being shown on OLN (Outdoor LIfe Network) here in Canada, and even though I have watched faithfully each season, missing episodes only when I have been traveling, I am really enjoying watching the reruns. From the premiere in September 2001, up to and including the current Season 14, I have been stuck in front of the television, refusing all calls

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-89477277344825433582009-03-07T14:36:00.006-05:002009-03-07T16:32:47.129-05:00

On a walk into Port Credit today, I could see signs of the end of winter in Canada. Some are pretty and some are pretty awful, and some are downright tasty! Yesterday's record high temperatures -- 18 C (64 F) have been replaced with today's 6 C (43 F) and pouring rain.Credit River Winter in Canada Thaw Snow Melt The blue green Credit River runs brown with the dirt and debris from the snow melt

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-1945704372007121682009-03-03T12:00:00.006-05:002009-03-03T12:58:47.519-05:00

The short list (well, top 50) is out for the Best Job in the World, and seven Canadians made the cut. Now, we have until the end of the month to cast our votes for our favorite applicant.So far this morning, I have seen 3 of the Canadians interviewed on CBC, and every one of them sounds like a winner to me. I'll have to check out the candidates from the other countries listed.While it's tempting

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-34628586999033723782009-02-25T09:51:00.011-05:002009-02-25T10:27:22.922-05:00

The Intrepid Travel newsletter arrived today, outlining some great travel deals for the coming season. But one trip -- the 13-day Patagonia trip to Argentina and Chile-- caught my attention. This travel deal is 'buy one trip and bring along a friend for half price.But time is short -- this special travel deal ends on February 28 -- just a few days from now. If you want to see Chile (Santiago

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-15675061842702407532009-02-20T14:27:00.010-05:002012-01-02T19:49:59.003-05:00

Harbourlicious is on right now until March 22 at five restaurants in Port Credit (Mississauga, Ontario) : TEN Restaurant and Wine Bar, Ridgetown Pub, Lake Affect, Breakwater Restaurant and Snug Harbour. I've eaten at them all (not on the same day or even week!) except for Ridgetown Pub, and I will remedy that oversight as soon as I can. Ridgetown Pub is at 170 Lakeshore Road East, about a block

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-22694938835095520752009-02-07T14:41:00.004-05:002009-02-07T15:02:09.169-05:00

Cranberry Cove Lake Ontario - a warm, sunny day with gusty winds bring the temperatures up to plus 10C was great for us winter-weary types and great for the ducks playing ' Surfin' Bird ' on Cranberry Cove in Mississauga.Cranberry Cove Lake Ontario Here's the wide picture of the Cranberry Cove shoreline at Rhododendron Gardens in Port Credit.Surfin' Bird ~ Ducks on Lake OntarioThe waves were

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-54902121366730465322009-02-03T18:26:00.017-05:002012-01-02T19:51:38.054-05:00

(See Update bottom of page) Snug Harbour restaurant, located at the mouth of the river and across the bridge from the lighthouse in Port Credit has, arguably, the best location of any of the hundreds of places to eat in Mississauga. Even if the food was unpalatable and the staff unpleasant (and this is not the case at all!), Snug Harbour views and great patio overlooking the Credit River would

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-77796181637679336512009-01-20T18:15:00.005-05:002009-01-20T19:07:51.840-05:00

Winter in Canada - snow and ice and cold winds -- is not my favorite season, but today, here in lovely Port Credit, even though the temperature was about minus 10 Celsius (14 F), and there was plenty of snow and ice everywhere, the sun was warm and it felt wonderful. And so for the first time in several weeks, I headed across Lakeshore Road through Rhododendron Gardens to have a look at Lake

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-32553177081741344612009-01-14T09:40:00.007-05:002009-01-14T10:23:15.034-05:00

Rattray Marsh Conservation Area is one of my favorite walking trails in the area. It's accessible via the Waterfront Trail in Mississauga (Ontario, Canada), which connects to Jack Darling Park. Rattray Marsh is not a Mississauga park, but under the aegis of the Credit Valley Conservation Authority (CVC). It's a haven for inner city wildlife, and a great favorite of birders and hikers, but not

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-28877898620214767352009-01-13T08:08:00.000-05:002009-01-14T10:18:34.398-05:00

From my travel site : A selection of oddball searches from the past year plus a few tips for finding what you want to know, fast.Search engine queries are those words or phrases that are typed into browser search boxes to find sites with the information needed. Most searches are short and to the point; at least the ones that get most visitors to my travel site.But some Googles make me giggle, so

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-14438363826558339252009-01-11T10:42:00.005-05:002009-04-14T12:18:24.985-04:00

Though the Waterfront Trail along Lake Ontario in Mississauga is not maintained (kept clear of snow and ice) during the winter months, I decided to take my chances, as the snow was not too deep. On this chilly day, with a north wind blowing, I came to the lookout point at Jack Darling Park.Toronto C N Tower Viewed across Lake Ontario from Jack Darling Park Lookout.The lookout point at Jack

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23435458.post-34759529332735435602009-01-05T09:40:00.012-05:002009-01-05T10:24:05.579-05:00

Looking for flights from Toronto, Canada (airport code YYZ) to the U.K (likely London Heathrow LHR) this spring, I took a look at the online flight schedules for BA (British Airways) still searching for the best fare.I've flown BA several times before, as have family members, and we have always been very happy with BA flight times, fares, seat pitches, crew and amenities. BA leaves from Toronto

Karenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17431117188158928877noreply@blogger.com0