Centennial Park Conservatory

Centennial Park Conservatory

Escape from the Cold

It gets cold here and in the middle of  a long winter its nice to feel the warmth and smell the flowers and dream of spring.  So as we drove through the west end of Toronto we stopped in at the Centennial Park Conservatory and sat, dreamed, absorbed the warmth and took a few pictures too. 

Dinner for Eight

Located inside the walls of the Fortress of Louisburg this is the dining room in the Ordonnateur's Residence. C1744

Random Harbour

Built as a movie set, this charming little harbour was used to depict life in Newfoundland when its settlers first arrived from Ireland.  The movie speaks of the hardships of the first year,  setting up your homestead, preparing for, and  surviving the first brutal winter.  The set is now open to the public and provides a fascinating look back in time as well as interesting photo opportunities.

Fishing

At the end of every road in Newfoundland there is something interesting to see, and most of these roads eventually lead to the ocean.  Fishing is a way of life and it comes in all sizes from the large commercial fisheries in the larger cities to the small family business all along the coastline of this great province. 

The Battery

The Battery is a small residential area within the city of St John's, Newfoundland.  It sits on the entrance to the harbour located on the slopes of Signal Hill. The Battery is noted for its steep slopes, colourful houses, and its importance as a battery for the defense of St. John's harbour in both World Wars.

Quebec City

This view of Quebec City taken from the Citadel wall shows the the vantage point that the fortress had over its surroundings. With accurate modern guns (1850"s) there was little chance of a defeat by any army or navy of its time.

"Batisse" On Parade

 The Citadel in Quebec City is a 37 acre fortress built in the early 1800's to protect the city from Indian attack and the threat of an American invasion.  It is currently the summer home of the 22nd Regiment and the location of an official residence of the Governor General of  Canada.  Situated 330 feet above the St. Lawrence River it offers a commanding view of the city and the surrounding landscape.   During the summer months the 22nd provide ceremonial duties with their mascot Batisse.  The Regimental mascot for the 22nd Regiment of Canadian Forces was originally given to the Queen by the Shah of Persia. The Queen gave the goat Batisse to the regiment, and ever since then he and his descendants have served as the mascot of the regiment.

Burleigh Falls

On a warm winters day there is nothing nicer than to be out in the fresh air.  As long as the wind is light and the sun is shining.  Burleigh Falls and the rapids after it are a pleasant way to spend a few hours.

Glass Harpist

We've all taken our finger and made a note on a wine glass.  Easy to do really,wet your finger and rub around the rim.  Add a bunch more and tune them all until the pitch is perfect and start playing.  The most beautiful sounds came to my ear as I walked along the streets of "Old Town". If you would like to listen you can......

http://realberthiaume.com

Amazing Guitar

Through out the streets of "Old Town" you'll find street artists and musicians.  

Champlain Monument

In 1608 Samuel de Champlain established the City of Quebec.  This monument built in 1908 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the city still pays tribute to this famous explorer.  

Quebec City at Night

Nothing is nicer than a quiet stroll down the streets of the "Old Town" at night. 

Decisions

Part of the charm of Quebec City besides the photo opportunities are its restaurants.  Great food, charming atmosphere and lots of choice on every menu.  

Old Quebec City

I was fortunate to be in Quebec City last summer during their 400th anniversary year.  It is a vibrant colourful place with lots of character and many photographic opportunities.  This shot was taken in the older part of the city.  Beyond this view and to the right along Place Royale the old streets are narrower and allow only pedestrian traffic.

Gone But Not Forgotten

This is the start,my first blog and the first time I've dared to go public with any of my photos.  This shot is of a boathouse near where I live.  It was torn down, sadly, and has never been replaced.