July 31, 2007. "Cat sits in the sun. Dog sits on the grass. Turtle sits on the rock. Frog sits on the lily pad. Why aren't people so smart?" (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations")
July 30, 2007.
Here's a terrific pastoral property, at Salt Spring's lovely "south end". Two homes, one renovated / updated with country charm, the other perfect as a guest/inlaw or rental situation (B & B, too??). A barn, plus a techie's dream office (work from home, here!). Fenced garden, pasture for a horse or some sheep, seasonal creek with private forest and your own walking trails, plus an orchard. Close to two lakes, to hiking/walking trails, to both Ganges and Fulford Villages, and to ocean beach accesses, yet in its own quiet and sunny world. Enjoy this one! See Li for further details/appts to view.
July 29, 2007. I've been adding some virtual tours and slide shows to my listings -- check it out! Part way through the process, now (www.liread.com). A different "look", and I'd be pleased to have some feedback. Thanks! "A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in." (Greek proverb). Trees are biofilters that essentially protect us from ourselves. Plant a tree this summer, and care for it! Have you dusted off (or purchased, new) your bike, yet? Join the other committed Salt Spring Islanders, and remember this transportation mode! In all that focus group work, presently before the Islands Trust, for their OCP review considerations, did anyone lobby for proper bike paths? Diversity is the key to biological survival. Consider helping local communities to remain sustainable -- supporting local economies is one way to do this. Remodelling? Building? Some "green" flooring choices: Marmoleum, Sisal carpet, Palmwood, Cork & Rubber. Lots more to investigate...worth the effort!
July 28, 2007. Mark your calender for August 4th -- it's the 35th Anniversary Celebration of Pegasus Gallery. Celebrated local artist, Randolph Parker will be in attendance, between noon and 4 p.m., and Reg Ashwell, who began the Pegasus, will also be in attendance throughout the day. Refreshments and other surprises! The Salt Spring Island Painters' Guild Summer Show and Sale is on at ArtSpring, until August 6th (daily, from 10 to 4). Soul Shakedown is playing at the Treehouse, in Ganges Village, tonight! Morley Myers & Nicola Wheston Galleries, at Merchant Mews, will be showing new work -- an opening reception on Saturday, August 4th, from 6 to 9 p.m. See you there! Berklee Monterey Jazz Quartet plays ArtSpring on July 31st, as part of the Way Cool Summer Nights presentations! From August 2 to 6, drop in events take place at the Salt Spring Centre of Yoga, including a Bhagavad Gita class with Baba Hari Dass, from 1 to 2:30 on Thursday, Friday and Monday, and Satsang from 1 to 3:30 on Sunday. People can register for a whole day or the entire event. Call 537-2326 for more information. The B.C. Day Holiday Weekend is this coming weekend -- been saving up some summer things "to do"?? Get out there!
July 27, 2007. "If the boulders are moved, Even a river will change its flow." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations")
July 26, 2007. A picnic? How's this for a potential menu? "Pan Bagnia Artichoke Frittata Lentil Salad Gorgonzola Cheese baguettes honeydew melon, cataloupe, fresh berries Chocolate-Dipped Macaroons" Interested? Pick up a copy of "The New Vegetarian Epicure" by Anna Thomas (menus -- with 325 all-new recipes -- for family & friends). Enjoy! Here's another date to mark on your calendars! The 9th annual Salt Spring Island Apple Festival takes place on Sept. 30th, this year. Harry Burton, of Apple Lucious Farm, at the "south end" of the Island, shares the information that Tourism British Columbia has included the Salt Spring Apple Festival in its publication of the top ten summer food and wine-related festivals in B.C. Also, he shares the information that Up, the WestJet inflight magazine, is including 3 photos from last year's apple festival, in their upcoming issue. Gardenwise is also apparently going to feature an article in their fall issue about the Salt Spring apple festival. Harrowsmith is also going to feature the event in their October issue, where they will present some organic apple growing methods that Harry Burton has collated, along with other apple growers on the Island. Contact Harry direct, for more details, at Apple Lucious.
July 25, 2007.
Best buy waterfront property on exceptional Salt Spring Island! Custom designed home was renovated substantially in 2002 -- great kitchen, formal living, music room/library, cosy den for t.v. watching, large dining for family occasions, private master/ensuite, plus two further bedrooms, bathroom, all with ocean and garden vistas. The plus? A separate self-contained suite -- perfect for a guest/inlaw or nanny situation. Lovely view decking, easy-care landscaping, steps to warm ocean swimming. Foreshore lease in place -- build your dock, & keep your boat at your door. Wonderful panoramic ocean/islands/mountain viewscapes, and sunny (s/sw/w) exposures. Ready to just move into and enjoy! See Li for appointments to view.
July 24, 2007. "Do your devotions make you happy? Is your life a joyous song?" (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations")
July 23, 2007.
Here's a terrific building opportunity, or, a great holding parcel for now. Sunny (sunrises and sunsets, here), private (5 acres, mainly level, some cleared/some treed), close to beach access and to hiking/walking trails, and close to all amenities (shopping, galleries/restaurants, golf, ferry), yet in its own beautiful and serene world. Not to be missed, and listed at a best buy price. See Li for a viewing.
July 22, 2007. Mark your calendars for The Tempest, this year's Shakespeare in the Park offering -- directed by Libby Mason, a British theatre director, who has lived in Canada since 1993, and who lives part time on Salt Spring. It runs in Mouat Park from July 26 to 29, and again on August 2 to 5, and August 9 to 11. Play starts at 7 p.m., and there are two matinees (July 29 & August 5). See you there! This week's ArtCraft showcase is "Fibre Forms...innovative interpretations". Daily, at Mahon Hall, 10 to 5. Check out Barb's Bistro's music lineup for the summer season -- some great acts here. Hope you've caught the Fibre Festival's offerings this weekend -- some terrific workshops. This annual event is growing in importance. Way Cool Summer Nights continues, at ArtSpring -- call them, for details & ticket info. (250-537-2102). Sunday dinner jazz continues at Salt Spring Inn, with Devon McCagherty and Ken Hall, playing this evening. Don't forget to include Rock Salt Cafe, at charming Fulford Village, on the seaside, when contemplating dinner out choices. Local produce, good chef, appealing surroundings -- enjoy! Been to Ruckle Park, to Mt. Maxwell Park, to Burgoyne Valley Park, to the studio tours, to al fresco dining in Ganges, at Vesuvius, in Fulford, at Fernwood? Done the gallery tour in Ganges Village? Don't forget to enjoy the Island, from a tourist's perspective -- you'll be surprised at the talent on display! Galleon's Lap fine art photography gallery is showcasing Shari Macdonald's terrific work, this week. Don't miss this! Enjoy!
July 21, 2007. "so... yes... by the seaside, we two. Someone slightly ahead of us, looking out over gentle waves, space calling her, too, like it calls us. Your shoes are still on, of course. Sand, hard, baked in sun, ocean quiescent... no storms today. No arguments of wind and water, no boiling waves, no thunder of sea. Today the sky and the sea and the water meld. Shimmer, sparkle, summer warmth. Oh, let's hang onto this image, this gentleness of yesteryear... let's follow this adventurer walking before us, her footprints marking her path. Let's wander along the shore, our dog pelting down the sand, the shouts of the gulls, the slapping of gentle waves... a siren song. They knew what they were about, with old Ulysses! Let's go, too, and never mind the morrow." (L.R.)
July 20, 2007.
Yes...they're going home! Check out their private beach, dock, exquisite country home, sep. guest cottage, orchard, easy-care & beautiful landscaping, private forest trails...definitely a swan's retreat! Click on this photo, and enjoy! (See Li for your private viewing).
July 19, 2007. "We make life real By the thoughts we project." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations")
July 18, 2007. The annual Green Edition of the Driftwood newspaper is out, and full of good information. Paul Burke of Blue Horse Gallery on Northview Place is the featured homeowner -- he built a house where rain water is the only source of water. Check this out, online (the Driftwood's site is at gulfislands.net), if you missed the local newspaper's edition. Lots to learn, here! Looking for a water storage tank? Give Bob Ellison a call! (250- 653-4513). Eco-friendly plantings in your garden are another route to soft footprint living. Check with the nurseries on the Island for some suggestions. Drought tolerant plants are the way to go. Did you know that cycling is the new tennis? I'm teasing, but it is true that cycling is taking the place of jogging for aging boomers. It reduces one's carbon footprint, and is also excellent exercise. Check it out!
July 17, 2007.
Splendid 9 acre waterfront parcel, a mix of coastal forest, arbutus/garry oak groves, grassy/rocky knolls, and pasture areas. Nice pond and seasonal waterfall! Approx. 700 ft. of oceanfront, with superb dock facility (foreshore licence in place). The renovated Schubart designed home (H. Schubart studied with Frank Lloyd Wright) offers a great retreat opportunity. Or, reconvert to a cottage style option, and build a new home -- this is an exceptional waterfront parcel, in "natural state", at Salt Spring's special "south end". See Li for appointments to view!
July 16, 2007. Mark your calenders for the 19th Annual Fulford Day. It's on Saturday, August 11th, this year, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Drummond Park. See you there! Don't forget the Fibre Festival's Designer Showcase, on July 21st, at 8 p.m., at ArtSpring. Tickets at ArtSpring's box office. Don't overlook the annual potters display, at Mark's Work Wearhouse -- the annual showcase of local artists talents runs through July. Cre8tivity continues at ArtSpring, in the lobby spaces, until end of July -- try to catch this innovative show. Live music nightly, at Treehouse in Ganges, plus selective dates for live music at Barb's on McPhillips, plus live jazz on Sundays at Salt Spring Inn. Check it out! Lots of talent on this Island! Opening night of The Tempest, this year's offering of a Shakespeare play, opens on July 26, in Mouat Park. Tickets at the gate and at ArtSpring. Performances begin at 7 p.m., and there are two matinees during the run. Details of dates at ArtSpring. Don't miss this! Judy Mitchell Gallery, in Grace Point Square, is showcasing some exceptional talent right now -- drop by and enjoy paintings, sculpure, exceptional jewellery, pottery, fabric art, and more. An impressive array awaits! ArtCraft, at Mahon Hall, is showcasing "Visual Elements" this week, with new works by Martinus, among others. Have you tried Mix yet? "Healthily grown food and organic produce in partnership with salt spring island farms" is their logo. Check it out -- on the Boardwalk.
July 15, 2007.
Majestic eages, right outside your door, at this exceptional oceanview custom home. Private, sunny, acreage, with true panorama of ocean/islands/mountains. Close to beach accesses, hiking/walking trails, and enjoying peace and privacy -- like your own private park. Sunsets forever! See Li for appointments to view this Salt Spring gem.
July 14, 2007. It's Bastille Day, in France -- the French equivalent of our July 1st (Canada Day) & July 4th (Independence Day) in the U.S. Best wishes to all our French friends!
July 13, 2007. "Alternate between the solitary and the social. Whether alone or with others, keep serenity." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations").
July 12, 2007. "Tofu Broccoli Spaghetti 1/2 pound pasta 1 bunch broccoli, cut into pieces, including stems 1 pound tofu 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce 4 ounces low-fat mozzarella, shredded 1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain. 2. Place broccoli in a bowl with 3 tablespoons of water. Cover and cook in microwave on High for 3 minutes. 3. Mash tofu in a strainer to remove water. 4. Combine pasta, broccoli, tofu and tomato sauce and cheese in baking dish. Bake at 350 F. for 25 minutes. Makes 4 servings." (Barbie Casselman's "Good-For-You" Cooking).
July 11, 2007. Several articles are being printed, right now, in newspapers, specialty magazines, and in real estate oriented trade papers, about the continuing and growing demand for secondary homes/cottages. REM, the Canadian real estate trade paper, delivered to all realtors, notes that the number of Canadians committed to owning their own getaway retreat has increased, since last summer, by 12%. A nation-wide research poll of cottage owner and buyer attitudes was conducted by Maritz Research and a 51-market analysis of recreational property prices, trends and activity in selected leisure markets across Canada was compiled. More affordable properties can be found in the eastern part of the country (Atlantic Canada), while Ontario's cottage country and B.C.'s recreational areas host some of the most expensive properties in cottage real estate. Along with higher price points, there's also a very tight inventory level, says the report. "Our research reveals that the demand for recreational property continues to far exceed supply across Canada, causing cottage prices to rise at a much quicker rate than the overall housing market. A standard waterfront, land access property increased by 13% over the past year, with properties ranging from under 100,000 to over one million", states a CEO of a major realty company. More details? See Li! It's clear, though, that on Salt Spring Island and the Southern Gulf Islands, we also see this "thin" inventory moment (most owners don't want to be sellers, unless they "have to") coupled with a high buyer demand (the "pause period" of 2006 has been completely erased, and it's buoyant in sales, once more), and so price increases may not be far behind. It's simple economics -- high demand and low supply always equal higher prices.
July 10, 2007.
Private and sunny 2 acre oceanfront property, with wonderful and sandy walk-on beach, at your doorstep -- awaits your pleasure! Totally renovated, recently, with new addition, this home offers a private master "wing", plus guest "wing", and further guest/family area on daylight lower/garden level. Wood floors, accents, custom designed (by noted glass artist) light fixtures, beautiful and authentic First Nation carvings...many unique features here! A separate studio and garage/workshop, expands options -- perfect for an artist or home occupation space. Easy care landscaping, pastoral ambiance, and wonderful panoramic views! It's a gem! See Li for more info.
July 9, 2007. Have you checked out ArtCraft? A terrific array of artists creations awaits your pleasure. Birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas -- one can always put these treasures away, till needed. Had brunch at the Salt Spring Inn? Or Sunday dinner, with live jazz accompaniment? Tried the new pizza place in the Village (Luigi's sold, and the new person has a full array of items to tempt you) -- next door to the Love My Kitchen shop? Check it out! On a sunny evening, one can dine al fresco at Piccolo's, Artist's Bistro, Calvin's, Auntie Pesto's, Harbour House Hotel, Salt Spring Inn, Seaside Kitchen (Vesuvius), Raven Street Cafe (Fernwood), Rock Salt Cafe (Fulford). Enjoy! Have you visited the artists studios at "Merchant Mews", on the corner of Upper Ganges Road and Robinson Road? Don't overlook this! Picked up your copy of the studio map, at the Chamber, and visited some of the exceptionally talented Island artists, in their home studios? Blue Horse Gallery, on Northview Place, off North End Road, is one not to miss! If you like dark chocolate, it's sold here, too (made on Salt Spring!). Caught the fine furniture display, and the sculpture garden, at the Salt Spring Woodworks, at corner of Churchill and Upper Ganges Road? An amazing table, there! Kayak rentals, bike rentals, scooter rentals -- go exploring, too. Lots to see and do! More suggestions? Give me a call!
July 8, 2007. "What is an archer Without a target?" (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations")
July 7, 2007. ArtSpring's Treasure Fair takes place on July 12 - 14, with Live & Silent Auctions, Cash n' Carry Room, & Community Flea Market. Over 400 items will be displayed. Admission is free; reserve your seat, though, through ArtSpring's Ticket Centre. This popular event is one of ArtSpring's major fundraisers. See you there! If you haven't seen Carol Haigh's original paintings, currently on display at Steffich Fine Art (in Grace Point Square), make sure you don't miss same! Tumbling Sea is exceptional. HUM finishes on July 15th -- Wow! Try for a ticket to this and soar with the performers. Harbour House Hotel's patio is now open, for your alfresco dining delights. Alan Miceli plays Treehouse, in Ganges, on July 8th. Summer Faire in the Meadow, at Salt Spring Island United Church, is today, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lots to see and enjoy! Check the lineup of events at ArtSpring's "Way Cool Summer Nights" -- tickets at ArtSpring's ticket centre, plus program of events. 40% off closing out sale, at Stone Walrus Gallery (owners closing due to health issues) means the buyers of these hand-picked treasures will definitely benefit. The reduction applies to all merchandise -- some lovely things, here! ArtCraft, daily at Mahon Hall, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This week showcases "Visual Elements". Enjoy!
July 6, 2007.
Wonderful California-inspired home, plus separate oceanside guest cottage, both with superb ocean/islands/mountain panoramic vistas. Easy access to "walk on" beach -- great beachcombing, here, and can walk for "miles". Sunny, totally private, very quiet, a "rural" ambiance, English-country easy-care garden, on comm. water, and close to all amenities, yet in its own serene world. You will love this one! See Li for all appointments to view -- 24 hr. notice essential.
July 5, 2007. "Markings in dry clay disappear Only when the clay is soft again. Scars upon the self disappear Only when one becomes soft within." (Deng Ming-Dao: "Tao...Daily Meditations")
July 4, 2007. Happy July 4th, to all my U.S. friends. Thinking of you all, on your special day! One characteristic that I truly admire, in all Americans I've ever met -- an American always is looking down the highway, and never in the rear view mirror. This is both profound, and admirable. We could all learn! Happy Independence Day!
July 3, 2007. "Pink Grapefruit, Avocado, and Walnuts with Mixed Leaves Serves 4 1 large red-fleshed grapefruit 1 large avocado lemon juice 2 ounces baby spinach leaves, coarsely shredded 3 - 4 handfuls frisee lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces small handful of watercress, land cress or chia 4 radishes, sliced diagonally 3 tablespoons walnut halves extra-virgin olive oil salt and freshly ground black pepper walnut oil Using a very sharp knife, cut a horizontal slice from the top and the bottom of the grapefruit. Remove the remaining peel and white parts by cutting downward following the contours of the fruit. Working over a bowl, cut down between the flesh and membrane of each segment. Ease out the flesh and put it into a bowl. Cut the segments in half crosswise and set aside with the juice. Cut the avocado in half lengthwise then slice crosswise. Sprinkle with lemon juice. Toss the salad greens with a few drops of olive oil -- just enough to barely coat the leaves. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Arrange on individual plates. Scatter with the radishes and walnut halves. Add the avocado and grapefruit segments. Sprinkle with the grapefruit juice and just a little dash of the walnut oil, and serve at once." (A Harvest of Healing Foods: Christine McFadden, Kathleen Zelman).
July 2, 2007.
Selling real estate on Salt Spring Island & the Southern Gulf Islands is not like it would be in a city or a town marketplace. I was driving up a roughed in roadway, on a heavily forested acreage, last week, and there, at the side of the roughed in driveway, were two baby racoons. The clients took these photos, before we bundled them into my dog's car bed, wrapped in towels that I keep for wiping off a muddy dog, on rainy days, so that we could deliver them to the Salt Spring Wildlife Rescue Centre. That was an interesting visit, too! Looking for a place to give a charitable donation? Think of the Wildlife Centre -- on Lang's Road, it's not open to the public, and they have a unique project there. Saving abandoned wildlife is one of them. (Yes, we did check with the Wildlife Centre before we brought the babies in. Sometimes the mother is just off foraging for food, but in the case of these racoons, they really were abandoned). It was an adventure!
July 1, 2007. Today is Canada Day, and we will be singing the national anthem (words below) at the various fireworks displays, around the country. At dusk, in Ganges Harbour, there will also be fireworks, with help from the fire dept. and the coast guard, to stage same, and with generous donations from Island businesses. See you on the boardwalk! "O Canada! Our home and native land! True patriot love in all thy sons command! With glowing hearts we see thee rise, The True North strong and free! From far and wide, O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. God keep our land glorious and free! O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. O Canada, we stand on guard for thee." Happy Canada Day!