Blue skies

I love it when you look up and see blue skies! Things have taken a cold turn again here in Toronto, but I'm sure warm times are just around the corner. For more skies, take a look at Skywatch.

Bench of tribute

If you're brave enough to sit here in this chilly weather, you can honor some of the fallen heroes of Niagara Falls. I like the simplicity of this war memorial. For a look at other skies from around the world, take a look at Skywatch.

In celebration of two years in Toronto, I knitted a seed stitch hat. If you'd like to win it, just leave a comment before February 24th. I'll draw someone's name from the comments. If you're not interested in being part of the draw, just mention that and I'll keep your name out. 

Flying high

You can find a Sheraton in almost any big city. I liked the way this sign looked with the flags flying above it though - it made the sign a bit more special. From left to right you have the Canadian flag, the American flag, the flag of Ontario and I am guessing that the blue one is the Sheraton's brand flag. For more signs, take a look at Signs, Signs.

Canadian spirit

Looking back through some of my photos from this summer, I realize there are quite a few that I have neglected to showcase. Like this display of Canadian pride at the Yorkdale shopping mall. I believe it was in honour of the Olympics, although by the end Canada only came home with one gold. That's certainly something to be proud of though!

Flagged benches

You can sit under the flag of your favourite province or territory at this square in Ottawa! From here you also have a nice view of the Rideau canals and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

July theme day: Chimneys

I've shown you this fire station a couple of times before, but here it is again! The chimney fits well for today's theme day and the (almost) furled flag is a great symbol for Canada Day. I hope all of my Canadian friends are having a fun and safe long weekend. And to everyone else, happy July!

To see more chimneys, take a look here.

PS: I've got visitors in from Germany this week, so my blogging may be sporadic. But not to worry, I haven't forgotten about my virtual friends! And I hope to have some fireworks shots for you tomorrow.

Windy day

Here's a look at the plaza where I got the rogue red tulip. It was a windy day which made the Canadian flag furl out beautifully! 

This plaza is also the terminus of the old Nine Mile Portage. Portages were Indian trails which were often used by the British in their conquest of the new land. The town of Barrie was built up around this site as it was apparently one of the more important trails.

Patriotic blooms

Canada didn't actually have its own flag until 1965. Before that date, they used what is called the Red Ensign. I found an example of one at York Cemetary on a military grave.

PS: My internet connection is coming today! And there are more photos from my Mediterranean cruise up on my travel blog.

Through the trees

A view of the beautiful Canadian flag through the still un-greened trees. I do have hope that spring is coming though. I saw loads of flowers this weekend that were just lovely.