Manitoba Bound

See ya later -- off to visit my Mom and sister for a few days!

Christmas Blessings to You

"Yet in thy dark streets shineth

the Everlasting Light"

"Wise Ones seek Him still"

The Treaty of Ghent

The War of 1812 ended two hundred years ago today when Britain and the United States signed the Treaty of Ghent on December 24, 1814. No territory changed hands. No borders were redrawn. No one really won and no one really lost. The war ended essentially as a draw, a stalemate. Both sides were frankly just glad to be rid of the hassle.

Historically, the war is significant only to Canada. By successfully repelling various American attempts at invasion, colonial Canada retained its English and French identities and forged a firm resolve never to be American. This reinforcement of a unique identity led 50 years later to the successful creation of the independent dominion of Canada.

There was only one small problem. The Treaty of Ghent was signed in Europe. News of the war's end had to reach North America by ship.

A very slow ship.

This means there will be one more blog post about the War of 1812 . . . stay tuned!

[Painting by A. Forestier, Signing of the Treaty of Ghent, shows Admiral of the Fleet James Gambier of Britain shaking hands with the U.S. Ambassador to Russia, John Quincy Adams]

Holidays at Litchfield

Are you a fan of Orange is the New Black? My Rare One and I certainly are! We hope you enjoy these heartfelt holiday greetings from everyone's favourite inmates.

Xmas Party in Asgard

Watch your back, Rudolf. "Reindeer Games" is in a bad mood.

It seems that even Norse gods are forced to wear fugly sweaters at Xmas.

Avengers Assemble! It's time for caroling! Okay, so some other party guests assemble as well.



And it seems the rumours are true -- playboy Avenger Tony Stark never ignores mistletoe, no matter who's under it.

Peace on Midgard and goodwill to all mortals!

Blessings of the Winter Solstice

Darkness deserves gratitude. It is the alleluia point at which we learn to understand that all growth does not take place in the sunlight.

--Joan Chittister, Uncommon Gratitude

As we celebrate the return of the Light, may we nevertheless continue to benefit from the peace and nurturing to be found in the Darkness.

Deep peace of the midwinter stars to you, my Solstice friends.

Christmas FAIL or GENIUS?

And you'd better read it, young lady!

Continuing on with a Biblical theme --

Here's a creative and charming gingerbread house!

And well, nice try.

You don't have to overdo the decorations to be effective, whether inside . . .

. . . or outside!

And above all, never get all Type-A and nitpicky at Christmas!

Now for something sweet . . .

. . . and something sour!