The Mega Quarry Picnic

So, after having lived down by the river with hippies for a fair length of time in my 20's, there is something quite comforting about the idea of eating and sharing a communal experience in the woods. So, when it came time to join with other concerned citizens in showing our support against the proposed Ontario Mega Quarry, it was a no brainier that I was happy to participate in Foodstock.

The premise of the event was to bring public attention to the issue of the proposed quarry that looks to be built north of Toronto.

Seventy chefs from all over the provence set up in the woods of a farm which neighbours the proposed open pit site. They came to cook and share their support against the exploitation of this prime farmland. Much of the food they cooked was food that was local and the product of the distinct soil to which the area is home.

Though it was cold and muddy, the proposed ten thousand people that were expected came out in masses and the final total of attendants reached an estimated 20 thousand.

Though the nibbles we had were delicious, it really wasn't about the food or the outstanding musical acts. It was about free speech, democracy and the power of the individual to be heard. Ok, and a good excuse to wear my Hunter wellies?

Yes, there could have been significantly more national news coverage, but already there is a larger group that is heeding the message of our need for sustainable farmland near the GTA.

Sure I suppose I could have occupied Bay street, but Dave and I chose to use our voices for a cause near to our hearts, and I can honestly say that it was truly inspiring to be a part if it.

The views as we marched with other supporters into the woods!

Delicious morsels in hipster containers

Mud could not keep us away

So it was a little chilly, but the chefs were prepared!

Can you see the foodies for the trees?

Yes, there were moments that seemed overcast. 

Imagine this as an open pit dug below the water table... no thanks!

For kids who grew up in Ontario in the 90's this is a shot of Hayden on stage!

A truly fitting end to the day! A rainbow of hope.

Who Lives Here? Martha Stewart?

So you can take the family out of the floral business, but...

This Thanksgiving we finally had a chance to gather together and have an unrushed family day.  Sure it was particularly special because we were not tied down to the shop, however the best part was that for the first time Dave and I could finally host our first holiday. Sure our dining room is in need of a few things, but I pulled out my best Martha Stewart and this is the result....

I also managed to whip up an awesome pecan pumpkin cake complete with fondant leaves and acorns. Damn, those acorns were more difficult to make than I first suspected.

And, of course, you cannot forget about the finer details of the flatware...

Then weeks later we were thrust into my favorite day of the year...

Halloween!!!

I think we are hated by the other people on the street, 'cause we are a little too focused on decorating for this particular day. 

I know this because one woman who came to the door with her brood of Trick or Treaters asked in a venomous tone, " is this where Martha Stewart Lives?"

Ok, sure the owl pumpkin was carved from an idea from Martha's web site. But why do people need to be so nasty on the best day of the year? Sure we have real fire and the pizzazz of pumpkins that are fancy, but we don't have a full grave year on the lawn...yet.

And besides, I never forget to pay an homage to my favorite classic childhood moment: The 'free hand carve'

To be completely honest... it is always the moment that gives me the most joy.