Made a special dinner for Valentine’s Day, for which we felt teased along the journey to obtain the ingredients. Strawberries and a lovely bunch of daffodils at Niagara Market; a lovely bottle of Chilean Chardonnay. So I went with the old standard, chocolate-covered strawberries, along with yummy lemon squares from Cascadia Bakery, preceded by pasta tossed in a parsley and olive pesto with asiago cheese. A delicious meal and a lovely Valentine’s Day. Next year, I will try to be more organized and attempt the lovely cookies another blogger shared; I would be thrilled if they turned out half as beautiful as hers!

http://jenmaaninamman.com/2012/02/14/no-fail-sugar-cookies-just-in-time-for-valentines-day/

Yum!

 

Made these way too late to add to our Etsy shop, but I’ll be ready for next year!

Three new designs and one from last year.

Out and about in pink knit poncho with pink and white heart pin, I endeavor to find some Valentine’s Day things to photograph. Found some early cherry blossoms, which was a thrill, as well as a pair of red and white Miz Mooz at She She Shoes which might become my “must have!” of the spring.

14 February in Victoria BC: cherry blossoms.

My little felted heart pin out for it's Valentine's Day spin!

The Valentine's window at Rogers’ Chocolates.

One of my favourite windows in town, Violette Boutique.

A year ago yesterday we lost our little friend Domino. He was 20 years old, so not a bad run. He was the sweetest, gentle, funny and charming cat.

Our friend Domino.

A rare moment sharing a sunbeam.

Unfortunately, this was the last two years of his life: avoiding the brat Taxicab, who desperately wanted to play with the old man!

I’ve started working more with feathers in my felted accessories. Yesterday I finished this new piece which is a combo needle felted then wet felted base, stone beads sewn around the edge and then peacock feathers applied with needle felting. I wore it in my hair today to see how it would feel and work. It needs a better chop stick and would probably work best in thicker, curly hair, but overall I love the way it looks on the head. I’m gearing up to reopen my Etsy shop, so hoping for lots of input the next few days on new things I’m making. Thanks!

First of the new feather and felt hair accessories.

Birds are so lucky to have such natural beauty! They don't need embellishments!

GJ has been working away the last few days on a new piece. It’s early stages yet, but here’s a sneak peek:

What wonders await us when this little flying ship is incorporated into a new sculpture!

While out on a little walk today (such a beautiful spring-like day), GJ spotted this cool plaque attached to the side of a telephone pole. I was surprised we hadn’t seen it before, it’s clearly been there a while. I’ll be keeping my eyes open and hope to find more of them around town.

LOVE, all we need is...

TC's new best friend.

Spent a couple hours at the AGGV this afternoon. It was a wonderful walk there today with bright blue skies and crisp cold air. There are several interesting exhibits on right now; here are a few photo highlights:

"Retinue of Thirty-Six Court Officials." This and the next three photos are from the "Enduring Art of China" exhibit.

"Retinue of Servants with Sedan Chair," Ming period.

Ikebana by Amanda Gaunt, Sogetsu School of Ikebana.

Carved stone objects 19th and early 20th century. The two pieces top right are carved turquoise and so delicate.

These two pieces plus a video installation by Megan Dickie are among the offerings for the exhibit called "Throw Down."

Part of "Victoria Collects: A View into Private Art Collections from the Region." Some of the artists represented are Gauguin, Mondrian, Warhol, Group of Seven, Oldenburg among many others.

A Meiji period Shinto Shrine adorns the Asian Garden.

A section of the Asian Garden at AGGV.

The back of the original gallery, Spencer Mansion.

The first of several installations of "Sleeping Bag" by Tyler Hodgins. These ice sculptures which address the issue of homelessness will be appearing all over town for the next few months.

Just when you are feeling productive and getting things done, TC decides it’s time for you to pay attention to her, and only her!

TC loves to make GJ snuggle when he's working!