Phyllis Wheaton

Photo by P. Wheaton

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Click on the following dates to read that day's entry. Or scroll down the page. To see photo pages now, click here   # 1   # 2   # 3   # 4. JULY - 26 - 28 - 29 - 30 - 31 AUGUST - 1 - 2 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 8 - 11 - 12 - 13 - 14 - 15 - 16 - 17 - 18 - 23 - 24 - 25 - 26 - 27 - 31 Summer 2005 Ann Morrow Lindberg is teaching me to 'stay in the stream" She authored Gifts From the Sea - now an antique written fifty years ago - while consuming a chunk of time away from her family and daily routine to observe and write alone by the sea. She explains that women's roles change at different stages of life and how vital it is for the spirit to take time for itself. So the words of Ann Morrow Lindberg are my guide. "Stay in the stream" means to have no expectations of others but set goals and go do. Getting caught on branches like worry or trying to force or control circumstance or people, bog the spirit. There are higher powers to trust as I make my way on a writing journey promising myself to explore with courage and go with the flow. (Ann Morrow Lindberg was the mom of the Lindberg baby who was kidnapped and murdered. Her words are born of experience.) 56 Tuesday, July 26, 2005 I'm leaving Calgary with the notion that a month should be enough time to finish up a dozen songs or more that need the attention. Along the way I'll visit with dear friends and see how long I can spend with myself. Medicine Hat is the first stop for coffee and gas. Leaving I catch a glimpse of a guitar standing on the side of the Transcanada, uncased. Holding on to a giant backpack and the neck of the guitar is Cody. Thinking about the times strangers have helped me in my life my intuition says "this kid needs a ride". Cody is heading for Antigonish, his home town, after a visit to Vancouver Island. The exchange was a ride for great conversation. We solved most of the problems of the world and talked all things spiritual in six hour or less. At Swift Current after warming our bellies with cabbage soup we sat on the curb of the Husky and sang some tunes. Cody has been to the Stan Rogers festival in Nova Scotia many times - this is one trip I'll plan one day. "I hope you got a ride soon after I dropped you off in Regina, Cody. So nice to meet you and know the world is in good hands with your generation". Click here to see photos 56 Thursday, July 28, 2005 Joey Adamoski is one of my favorite fiddle players/musicians/marshall arts instructor and happened to be organizing the Street Dance event in Dauphin. The prelude for the Dauphin Ukrainian Festival, known world wide, this Street Dance alone had over 4000 people attend last year. He found a half hour for me to get up and play to a wonderful all-ages audience. We were also entertained with Ukrainian Idol - yes you read that right! The only two rules were that one of the songs performed must be Ukrainian and both songs must be sung accapella. These two rules made this contest a real show of vocal talent. And could these contestants of all ages sing! Don Gessner, a long time friend and musician, organized a last minute jam at the Royal Canadian Legion and a handful of us took our gear down there. What a great mix of country, celtic, folk, and Ukrainian traditional. I got a chance to sing my originals and harmonies on others music. We had a great evening entertaining the crowd trickling in from the street dance and we were all reluctant to leave. There is a warm feeling about revisiting familiar places, faces and even hearing their voices. I call Don a summertime Santa because of this frame, smiling features and pleasant attitude to children and for that matter all of us. Thanks for the evening Don! 56 Friday, July 29, 2005 Air has cooled and droplets remind me how quickly the weather changes driving up into Riding Mountain National Park. Not really mountains, but everything is relative on the Prairies. It reminds me of Bragg Creek, Alberta. For $6.00, I can spend the day here and get caught up on my journals. People visit RMNP from all over the world. It is not only beautiful, but is rich with wildlife. So many carcasses lay on the side of the road and I wonder when they will construct the type of fencing and walkovers used in Banff which have reduced road kill to nil. I've never been to Oak Lake Resort in full blown summer and I almost got lost trying to find Judy's for all the growth. Aside from the regular girlie visit, our plan is to visit Westman Nursing Home where Judy's husband, Lloyd, is a resident, and sing gospel songs. He was diagnosed with Alzeimers and it has been a tough road for the whole family. Judy is remarkable and has written a book about her experience with the disease. It is a tender and funny read for anyone interested in living vicariously through her experience and a validation for those who are actually on that path now. After rehearsing and visiting, it's 4am before we put out our first night. Click here to see photos 56 Saturday, July 30, 2005 It's another scorcher - has to be over 30 degrees. We trek off to a community fleamarket. I am tempted buy a tiny accordian, but a little boy also has his eye on it. I wrestled him to the ground until he agreed to give it up . just kidding. I walked away - even though my Blazer is my suitcase, I still have to be careful just how much I accumulate. I've sung in nursing home for many years and I have seen the power of music move people who could not be moved - touch them by sparking a memory of their youth; take them 'home' even though they will never be going home again. This is often through a familiar gospel song. And especially 'You Are My Sunshine'. We may bring the blessing of music, but Judy and took away blessings, each in our own way. The lake looks inviting so I persuade Judy to come down to the lake for dip. Fish flys are in full flight, so I have to hit the water before dusk. In the heat, they lie in the grass and wait. At night these full winged, beady-eyed, squiggly pests like to fly in squads and attach themselves to sides of buildings, cars or more personally irritating - our clothes. It's been awhile since I swam outdoors in a lake. Nothing like it for sure. I played water ball with two little girls and after they watched me front crawl to save the ball from floating past the buoys, they asked me to teach them to swim. They both caught on to bobbing and back float and Lacy giggled when she realized she could now dog paddle. It's a start for the short time we spent together. Back at Judy's we sat in our jammies in the sun room. 12:30am and the time has wisked by again. What a good day. 56 Sunday, July 31, 2005 I've been in touch with my friend Linda W. She is ecstatic - she's just been sailing. This is a feat for most people, but Linda had polio as a child and her appetite for living and adventure has not been suppressed even though she endures the affects of post polio syndrome. She describes the rough wave conditions at 8 out of 10 and how she loved the wind and water spray in her face. Two hours on Pelican Lake and she's ready for the next lesson. I'm meeting her at her cottage today and she's offered this home by the 'sea' to write for a few days. What a gift! It's exactly what I need. The Manitoba mosquito seems to be holidaying out west for their summer. There are none to be found. Linda and I explore the beach and she takes me to an old unlocked church I dub "the Church of the Open Door". The acoustics are amazing and I admire the architectural genius that constructed such buildings, capable of such sound, so long ago. Linda hears creeking noises from the downstairs staircase and is convinced the inquisitive ghosts have come up from the basement to greet us ... or something. We left the ghosts unintroduced and went back to her cottage and sat by the lake by the perfect flames I built in the firepit, roasting sweet marshmallows to perfection. Perfect evening. Click here to see photos 56 Monday, August 1, 2005 Today, Linda has gone back to Brandon and has left me to my own company and I begin to think about "The Church of the Open Door" I'm still not ready to be alone with myself, so off to Onanole which is only 6 km away. The Cafe and Poor Michaels Bookstore is where I'm able to sip coffee, read like a library and find a Robert Service compilation and a history book about the opening of the west. I wanted to give the helpful clerk my CD, but when I returned she was gone. There was a lone man organizing books and I handed him the CD for her. He surprised me by saying "CD swap" and handed me his CD called Four Legs Good - Des Macht Show band. At the car I popped his gift in the player and listened to the harmonies, accordian, clarinet and the fun lyrics. They are performing in Calgary in February and I'm going to try and take in that concert. He also told me about an open jam at Pizza Place in Clear Lake. That has now been added to my list of things to do tonight, but first ... Linda was convinced about the ghosts in the old church, whose adjacent graveyard documented lives with Icelandic names dating back to 1874. She would be delighted to hear I went and sang for them, gospel songs I had waiting in my guitar case. I asked permission of the spirits to cross the threshold. The mauve and lime green windows allowed the last rays of evening sun to enter and beckon me. The Old Rugged Cross, Mansion On a Hilltop, Amazing Grace, I'll Fly Away, He Leadeth Me, Rock of Ages all came pouring out. The acoustics were phenomenal and sent my voice and soul soaring. Like the "Kalihari Bushman", in gratitude, I thanked God and the ever present spirits for being 'open' to me. Next stop 10:30 jam at Pizza Place. I know no one, but the power of music will fix that. I just have to show up, with courage. Ryan was an amiable host, ready to meet and greet all strangers and make us feel at home. Patrick added lead guitar on a couple of my original songs. He had his long thick blonde hair in a French style roll on his head. Big smile and lots of talent. Bass, drummers and even keyboard jammers. As the evening unfolded, I found two other contributors, Anna and Mara, and we tried to find common songs we could perform with harmonies. It seemed gospel was the common denominator and as it happens, I just had two songs of choice in my guitar case. Although a young crowd, they were receptive and eager for all music. If I'm still here next week, I'll go back. Click here to see photos 56 Tuesday, August 2, 2005 Linda's little cottage nestles. It's tucked between big old spruce and Manitoba Maples. When you're inside you feel nestled, like you're being hugged by each wall, comforted. Today, no excuses - I write. Finished the Blue Beret I started in Calgary; a war song - yet about the Peace Keeping Canadians who continue to bring order to post war countries. This means everything from clearing land mines (an enormous task as millions are unaccounted for and each month civilians are killed and maimed) to the logistics of helping the locals "get along". I'm also wrapping up the final changes to the Izzy Doll, a song about Mark Isfeld, one of our Peacekeepers killed while detonating mines in Croatia. His mom had crocheted tiny dolls which would fit his soldier's pocket. He had seen the devastation of war and from a child's perspective the loss of their parent(s) and siblings to the loss of their homes and simple things like their toys. Mark won the hearts of many of these children with these dolls. After his death, peacekeepers continue to give these dolls, which in true Canadian fashion, "cannot be bought or sold" and are now crocheted by the hands of many Canadian women. For more info and for the pattern for Izzy Dolls, please visit the site Mark's parents have built in his honour : http://www.isfeldbc.com I can't find the moon tonight as I sit in the peace of the darkness and the subtle glow of the patio lights. They attract all species of insects. The mysteries of light. It is more than warmth that attracts all living creatures to it. It is knowledge, hope, life. It is so black here, so dark, but those little sparkly lights make me feel like those little insects - I'm home. There's another light that always brings me happiness - the fridge light. Hunger calls and the fridge light will answer that call. Talk to you tomorrow. 56 Thursday, August 4, 2005 After a day of writing behind me, I decide to explore Riding Mountain and meet some new people. And what day! Driving up to the RMN Park boat launch on such a windy Manitoba morning, looks more like an open sea than and inland lake. The blue green water is tipped with white caps and sailboats sit at the docks waiting for a ride. There's a walking trail up the shore and I'm soon lost. The thick forest and the force of the wind over the huge lake makes adults feel like children. I wish I had my bike. I hear giggles, then four sets of legs run out from the underbrush wearing yellow life jackets. Button heads about six years old, steer with bright eyes more confident than I in their little feet scurrying faster than their upper bodies, defying gravity. They look like an animated cartoon. I follow them to the edge of the water and listen to their joy - witness the making of their childhood memories they will recall when they are my age. After finding my directions, I make my way to Ominnik Marsh and start hoofing the boardwalk for the 1.9 km hike through the habitat of all kinds of creatures. Gail and Lewis, from Saskatchewan, were discovering the much heard about RMNP. As she peered over a handrail, I stopped to ask what they found. Leeches - over 6 inches long and pretty gooey looking in the murky water. They were so kind and let me follow them while we talked about Canada and the places we've been. "Alot of my friends want to go south, but I want to travel and see My Canada", expressed Gail. Now that they have seen RMNP which was one of their dreams, she hopes to skate on the Rideau Canal one day. Riding Mountain National Park is home to much more than tourists. The park's highest elevation is 2451 feet and one of it's highlights is the bison enclosure at Lake Audy. It preserves 270 bird species, and 61 mammal species including black bear, cougar, linx, moose and elk. And nothing is more mystical than the cry of the loons and the call of the wolf packs under the glow of a motley summer moon. RMNP maintains it's outstanding grounds and gardens without toxic chemicals, protecting the sacred habitat and water for wildlife and tourists, making it safe for barefoot children to play in the manicured grass. They use only organic options to pesticides, like "insecticidal soap, beer traps for slugs, and radishes that act as lure traps for flea beetles". In their commitment to the Kyoto Accord, the park's fleet includes two electric gas/electric hybrid cars and several propane powered vehicles. Composting, recycling and solar energy are other strategies the park uses to preserve nature in it's natural habitat. Wasagaming is a tourist resort area often just called Clear Lake and it's history is rich with more history like the story of Grey Owl. A British born lad who came to Canada in search of his father he believed to be living with the Canadian natives, he earned the trust and confidence of the Aboriginal people becoming an blood brother, after proving his abilities in the wild. His two companions, Jellyroll and Rawhide taught him about the life and habits of the beaver. His life work centered around working for the park helping to establish beaver colonies. In downtown Clear Lake (Wasagaming) http://www.discoverclearlake.com are a couple of teepees luring you to the Ojibwa exhibition centre, where aboriginal leather and bead crafts are displayed along with photos of their people. I think about something Ryan, the host of last Monday's open mic, had commented when we were talking about songwriting and historical folk. "Since 9-11", he explained, " I have become very fascinated with history." Meeting the Ojibwas people in their candid photos, is like meeting history. Today is a day for meeting people. I find a super internet location at Jewels of Siam in Onanole. Gillian turns out to be Patrick's, (the young guitar player with the blonde hair roll) from the open mike) girlfriend. She is very informative and helpful and I asked her to pose by the shop's 30 year old jade plant. Carson co-owns "The Spot" a restaurant in Onanole. It turns out he is an experienced guitar player and performed in the past. We start talking and met and jammed at 6pm for an hour and a half. He taught me the principles of harmonics as taught to him by Valdy. One of the skills on my list to learn - I think I finally got it - now practice, practice. At 7:30, I met with Diane, someone I haven't seen in many years, but was compelled to contact. She and Phil had retired at the beautiful estates in Onanole. It didn't take long to realize why I felt the need to meet with her. Diane's two oldest are in the military and her daughter was in the Gulf War. She walked me through the viewpoint of the parent of a soldier, emotionally and graphically. She talked about what parents, friends - any Canadian can do for our soldiers - she sends boxes and boxes of cookies and baking every couple weeks that her daughter, the HMS Halifax dietician, distributes throughout the ship. But she says so many don't hear from anyone or receive any mail at all. She explains it can be a lonely life without benefit of contact from Canada. She is the perfect audience for the audition of The Blue Beret. I'm so glad to have taken this visit and we will keep in touch. Click here to see photos 56 Friday, August 5, 2005 I closed up the cottage and drove to Oak Lake Resort where Judy and I have acquired even more songs, both folk and gospel. Back at the Westman Nursing home, we visit with Lloyd, and now John and Lois are now familiar faces to me, too. John takes out his harmonica and plays a tune. He has a binder in his wheelchair side pocket and shows me the photos of people. He says "here's you" and I view my promo card which I gave him on our first visit. I was thrilled to be included in his binder. We took photos of the group and I'll get them printed so he can enjoy opening his binder and seeing himself with all of us. I'm reading Judy's books with every extra minute, but the fact is, we're a couple of girls who are having so much fun talking and laughing and eating, that I don't want to stop to read. Yet, it's such a good story, I can't wait to get back at it. Click here to see photos 56 Saturday, August 6, 2005 Judy has that twinkle in her hazel eyes. Once she realized I had never been to Souris, just a half hour away, she decides that's our project for today. Away we went - she's hoping the famous Souris peacocks will be window shopping in front of the drug store as is often the scene on main street. I do spot one while driving through the amazing park and tried to get a close-up. Actually I was trying to get close enough to snag a feather drooping from it's side, like a human hair, loose ready to fall. The bird sanctuary in the park, is home to white swans, black swans, herons, geese, ducks and more. I took a hike to the 500 year old oak tree, then climbed the wooden stairs of the town tower to view the city of Souris. The famous swinging bridge had attracted lots of tourists by early afternoon and it was a fun walk as we all jiggled crossing it. Next stop - the graveyard. History lives in this place. It illustrates by the dates, not only how old, but how very young the occupants of the graves were. And how precious every month of life was to these pioneers who suffered and lost to all ailments not yet immunizable. Commonly etched in the headstone, not only the age, but the months as well (William age 4 years 6 months) Many stones are engraved with 'one liners' reducing a life to one sentence. I wonder what I would write if I had one sentence to sum up my life. What would you write? (Well, it's a good thing someone else ususally did that anyway, - but these graveyard walks do makes me pause and think about what imprints I may leave behind) By 7pm, Judy and I are back at the nursing home for Lloyd's daily visit, which Judy is committed to. Lloyd plays drums with his hands on the table top and accompanies these old tunes with his deep bass voice, and John blows the harmonica. We get a half dozen people singing along and generate more toe tapping. Today, Judy and I came bearing little stuffed toys that we gave out. John was so delighted, that he reached into another book stuffed into his wheelchair side pocket. He pulled out a picture of Winnie the Pooh's Tigger character that he had colored from a coloring book. And, with a grin as big a Tigger himself, said "This is for you for your fridge or something." Bright orange crayon struck my eye and I was so delighted with his gift. I will put this on my fridge door! Along with her book about Lloyd and their walk with Alzeimers, Judy wants to produce a song which she wrote encapsulating the experience through the power through music. She has asked me to record it and I'm honoured to do this project. I've started looking for a Brandon studio, so she can be part of the experience. Well, I didn't expect to be recording on this trip. Staying in the stream makes every surprise another gift. Just like Tigger! Click here to see photos 56 Monday, August 8, 2005 Two of my friends, Adrienne and Kim, have booked a cottage up at Clear Lake for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday for us. It is a cute little cabin like Linda's, and nestles us as we visit, eat popcorn late at night, walk and talk. Tuesday, I convinced my captive audience to experience the Church of the Open Door. We picked up Linda, and the four of us sat in the acoustically perfect church and sang. Our smiles were genuinely 'Heavenly' . Linda came to join us Wednesday morning. She arrived with a passenger she had picked up walking down the road. She knew I would enjoy seeing our 91 year old dear friend, Audrey Snodgrass, who happened to be celebrating her birthday with her family, just a few doors over. Audrey's daughter is also named Linda and I had lost touch over the last 6 months or so. I've thought about her often and our deep conversations that always leave me thinking. Once I found out where her front door was, I ran over and we were both pleasantly surprised at serendipity at work again. Perfect timing. She came over with her kids and grandchildren and I played songs she hadn't yet heard. Who would have thought - one minute the three of us girls sitting around on our deck and the next minute a full deck of all age visitors, talking and enjoying the day. What a nice 3 days. Although I didn't get any writing done - I did spend time charting and learning Judy's song. I had called Sue-On and Bill Hillman, two accomplished musicians from Brandon, http://www.hillmanweb.com/ who gave me names of studios locally, and set a date for Thursday at 3pm with Del Clark at Studio One in Brandon. Judy can come and be part of the process and I know she will enjoy it. Del also suggested two musicians to perform the music tracks. I'm not worried at all. I know this will work out. Click here to see photos 56 Thursday, August 11, 2005 There are times when everything goes wrong and nothing makes sense. And there are times, like today, when talented people, although strangers, work toward a common purpose where everything goes right and everything makes sense. Del Clark runs Studio One in Brandon, Manitoba and has called two musicians to provide backup guitars bass and mandolin. Glad and Ken Campbell have driven in from Genboro. They play in a band with Johnny Dietrich and are studio players as well. A studio player is a special breed. They must be precise and at the same time open to creative options. From the moment we arrive, Glad and Ken begin charting their patterns of a song they have never heard. Ken lays the bedtracks, rhythm and finger plucking with a D-28 Martin guitar and adds more effects with his Gibson mandolin. Glad uses a Fury bass (made in Saskatoon) to lay the bass tracks. Del sets up an AKG tube microphone for the vocals and I'm learning a few more vocal/mic techniques . It is 1am when we wrap it up. Judy left a few hours ago and hasn't heard the final result. Click here to see photos 56 Friday, August 12, 2005 I cried listening to In His Eyes all the way over to Judy's. Then we both cried. She explains to me that this song is exactly how it happened. Lloyd would ask "Where do I sleep" and "What is your name" He didn't know if it was morning, noon or night and yet there were times when she could see a hunger in his eyes to want to know more than he was capable to remember. Here are the lyrics to the song I'm hoping that Doug Faires (my wonderful, talented WEB GUY) can give you a minute clip of the song. Please e-mail Judy with your comments. twana@mts.net In His Eyes     Judith McIntosh       (PLAY CLIP) Where do I sleep? He asks And what is your name ? Is it morning, noon or night? Every day seems just the same Feeble, helpless and old, Confusion etched on his face, Never knowing where he’s at Always lost to time and place Chorus And in his eyes I see reflections of the child he used to be In his eyes I see no glimmer that he recognizes me In his eyes I see a hunger for a love that he once shared And in my eyes, I pray he sees how much I care Where have you gone? I ask And what can I do? But I know that you can’t answer me Disease has ravished you Can we bring back those times From long, long ago When we held each other close While we whispered soft and low? Chorus But in your eyes I see reflections of the child you used to be In your eyes I see no glimmer that you even notice me In his eyes I see a hunger for a love that we once shared And in my eyes, I pray you see how much I care Bridge I search and search to find a way To bring you back to me But all I find is emptiness And faded memory I touch your hand and breath a prayer To heaven up above And pray that you may always know My undivided love Chorus But in your eyes I see reflections of the man you used to be In your eyes I see a glimmer that you also search for me In your eyes I see a hunger for a love that we once shared And in my eyes, I pray you see how much I care In my eyes I pray you see how much I care Click here to see photos 56 Saturday, August 13, 2005 Heading into Winnipeg to visit and stay with Jon and Christy Parks. Jon is a singer/songwriter and Christy is my daughter. www.jonparks.com Jon will be on an Alberta tour in September - he plays keyboards, guitar and has a remarkable voice. My intent was to go to Kenora and stay there a few days or weeks. It's in the Canadian Sheild and reminds me of where I grew up. But now I'm thinking of my mom and wondering if I can master the winding, two lane TransCanada all the way to Sudbury. 21 hours of driving from Winnipeg - two days on a two lane highway. Click here to see photos 56 Sunday, August 14, 2005 I head over to cousin Steve's, when my sister from Kingston walks in. What a surprise. We had a good time visiting and in the morning when they set out to Kenora to the funeral which brought them on their unexpected trip, I followed them. I can go all the way - I figure Only 19 hours to go... It's not that I'm not a good driver - I just don't like having to be that focused on something for that long a time. After a long day of driving and approaching the Sleeping Giant in Thunder Bay, I really appreciate the passenger seat. I watch the billboards and pick out a hotel with a pool. Yeah, there's another billboard - 2 km. Now I'm behind a logging truck. He's so big - what lane do I get into. Hmmm. wrong lane. There must be another turn back into Thunder Bay. No ... hmmm Now I'm driving out of Thunder Bay disappointed I didn't find a place for the night. Trust.. there will be something. There are more signs heralding the turnoff to the Terry Fox memorial. I approach the statue on the hill and think there is enough daylight that I can get a few shots. I am impressed by the park environment and the view of Lake Superior from Terry's stone memorial. That was a great memory in history - what Terry attempted and how he touched everyone so deeply. Very moving. The road changes to muddy gravel right under my tires and I'm thinking I took another wrong turn. There's a construction worker. Lise explains I haven't lost my way and instructs me to drive another 10 km or so to the McKenzie Inn. She says it's lovely. The McKenzie Inn used to be a school. It's hardwood floors and new decor say modern, but there's a homey, lived in feeling about it. Philip is the manager and because there are no economy rooms left, he gives me a discount on the Amethyst room. The Spaniard and I are very happy! I go downstairs for a bite to eat and Philip has my CD playing in the lounge. Makes me uncomfortable - surreal again. Click here to see photos 56 Monday, August 15, 2005 Sharon, a trucker from Mississauga, sips on her coffee and says this doesn't feel like a hotel. Maybe we're still feeling the playful presense of so many children who spent so much of their young lives here. Out back I take a walk and find myself by a creek with wild flowers, pick petite wild raspberries and for the first time in years, see wild strawberry plants. I'm settling in on the road again. I hope to get to Sault Ste Marie by tonight. The Rockies are beautiful, but the view from Nipigon east is magnificent! 500 miles of shoreline winding around and through rock cuts of precambrian shield and I feel like I'm on a Conklin midway ride. The price of gas continues this perception. (why aren't people picketing across Canada about these gas prices?? Is there some reason why everyone is so accepting - could you share it with me??) As beautiful as this trip is, I do wonder why Ontario has not taken more care with their highways. Most of the road I have been on today (and for the next few days) are not only two lane, but have no paved shoulders. I've listened to Northern Ontario residents talk about how the North is forgotten, while funding if funnelled into Southern Ontario. I'm beginning to think they are correct on this. This route is the major artery from east to west - it certainly deserves more attention. This becomes even more evident soon. Over a hill, around a curve, up a hill, down a hill... "ummm, turn off the CD player.... is my motor running ?... everyone is passing .... Did my motor stop ? ..... Find a place to pull over ...." My fourwheel drive suitcase on wheels comes to a stop at the bottom of a hill, on the only patch of pavement along that stretch. I feel something or someone is protecting me. This could have been much worse. I know to lift the hood - a sign of help. Louie is on his way to Kingston from the NorthWest Territories. He stops to my aid only to realize his cell phone doesn't pick up a signal either. I have a Fido /Rogers that has been giving me problems since I left Winnipeg. A half ton with a yellow flashing light and a TWD crest stops. Kelly and Gerry try to solve the mystery of the 'no noise, a belt intact, no smoke, no fire (which is good). Just a motor stopped which will turn over but won't connect. Kelly calls CAA using his truck radio. We all chat for awhile. Kelly explains what the crest on their truck means. "We work for Total World Domination, " he says with a serious face "Or Two Wheel Drive" he adds with a chuckle in a Superman/Clark Kent switch. They actually work for the Department of Highways who have contracted TWD. They meet stranded tourists all the time. Part of their job also includes cleaning up road kill and accident scenes. Exchanging stories of our travels across Canada is illuminating. Kelly told us about a trip as a boy to Drumheller, Alberta. The fish eating Taradon, a prehistoric bird mesmorized him, and once grown, he had it tattooed on his shoulder. Of course we had to ask for a viewing!! CJ hooked up my Blazer to his tow truck. Now I'm starting to realize the depth of my problem. The cost of repairs, motel time, loss of time - the list goes on. But stay in the stream - don't get bent out of shape until all the info is in. Be patient and don't waste my energy on what I can't control. (easy to say, not so easy to do) The Blazer is being assessed and I find solace in a meal of pikeral, one of the local delicacies. It is a treat. Now to go face the diagnosis ... Click here to see photos 56 Tuesday, August 16, 2005 I don't think Ann Morrow meant to imply staying in the stream would always be serene. It does no good to kick, spout and scream. (I tried) Treading water is a useless solution too. It wastes a lot of energy going nowhere. So let it all unfold. The mechanic has ordered a new fuel pump from Thunder Bay. It looks like I'll be spending the night in this town of Schreiber, Ontario, but I should be back on Highway 17 heading east, by noon tomorrow. I check into the motel and wonder if the smoke in the air is a forest fire starting near here. The office clerk expresses her interest in the sudden curtain of smoke that has settled over the little village. Now I'm wondering if there are larger issues to worry about. In two hours we hear that the forest fire is far enough away not to be a problem to us. It's a problem for some little town somewhere, but for now, not our worry. (funny how that works eh?) I met Pam, "Taradon Tattoo" Kelly's wife. She works at the gift store open all night. It's good to meet her and I pick up a coffee and chocolate and go back to my room and pluck out a few more tunes. This is the worst night's sleep I've ever had. Aching body parts, dark dreams and visits by ghosts. I know I tried to scream at some point, but could only squawk in a helpless deep sleep effort. Don't know what that all meant! Click here to see photos 56 Wednesday, August 17, 2005 Thank God for CAA Plus. It has paid the large towing bill. The $560 mechanic bill is covered by the income I made recording. There are times when things seem so futile - like a cat chasing it's tail. But if we don't have it, we can't spend it when we need it. Well, finding palatable reasons why "shite" happens, makes me feel better?? On the road again to view some of the most beautiful ribbon of the Lake Superior Route. And the Trans-Canada is a ribbon of highway - looping around and through textured rock cuts, flowing like fabric decoration, the awesome vistas with it's dots of yellow. Making it to Sault Ste Marie, I visited with Carol and Shane and Shane (a friend of their grown son's). They had just moved to the Sault and were in the middle of finding a house, organizing a business and Carol started work next week. They were like teenagers out on there own for the first time, enjoying the excitement of each moment. Young Shane drove my car to Sudbury and we had a great visit. I read Robert Service poems and he taught me about medicine, travel and the east coast, where his family is from. And for 3 hours I didn't have to drive, comfortable in his ability. Click here to see photos 56 August 18 - 22, 2005 No writing is getting done. Bottomless teapot, teasing, food, fun and music. Catching up with everyone's adventures since my last visit. I spend some time at Fairbanks, at Linda and Tim's camp. "When the moon is high, sun's gone down Barbecue is off and the sauna's on" Visiting with everyone, familiar faces, voices, hugs, lots of food and walks. Ray and Julie and the boys are visiting with Jasmine the party poodle. Jasmine is a beautiful black poodle who loves to eat socks. When I think how much these dogs are like children, I'm so glad none on my kids ever had that habit. (wait a minute - maybe that explains all the missing socks over the years.) Got a few good pics of the typical camp "scenery". Saunas were introduced by Finnish immigrants many years ago in the Sudbury area. Since we were kids we enjoyed these cultueral treats and grew up taking what we called 'steambaths' but are actually steam saunas. We throw water on the rocks to get the steam ranting and the sweat activated. Then jump in Fairbank Lake and repeat the process. What a great sleep we had tonight! Back at moms the next day we played into a late night jam with Joey, Ray, Leslie and Jess. The girls seem to be in awe of my work. It reminds me of the young waitress in Winnipeg last June who saw me perform at Dregs, pointed at me on stage and told her co-worker, " I want to be just like her when I'm her age". In our society's fixation on youth we forget how much we impact on the next generation with our actions and our voice. No age is the 'best' age. Every age offers something special. My thoughts return to making the 1700 km trip back to Manitoba, tomorrow. Click here to see photos 56 Tuesday, August 23, 2005 Left Mom's for the long hike home. Somewhere west of Sault Ste Marie I find myself lost. Lost in Hiawatha country. Ontario is not well known for marking secondary roads. But I am thankful for my female gene that makes it possilble for me to ask directions and I'm soon back on track. The silver maples are beginning to turn red. Fall is spectacular season in the Canadian Shield. Unlike the Rockies, the Sheild boasts of Autumns red leaves and all hues in between. This evening I pull into The Northern Lights Motel, west of Wawa, Ontario. It is CAA approved so not only do I get a discount on the room, I'm assured it will be comforable. It's a beautifull and clean room with notes and jokes pinned up on the wall here and there. Here is one from behind the bathroom door : There was a very cautious man Who never romped or played Didn't smoke, didn't drink Nor even kissed a maid Then one day he passed away His insurance was denied For since he never lived They claimed he never died I read more walls to find that Wawa has an annual Salmon derby. Yes, they fish a type of salmon here. It is a beautiful night and the moon slowly rises up from behind a hill. The black mist in the meadow reflects the sunlight and it feels mysterious. Brian was walking Colby, and we started to chat while he walked his dog. We talked about this ex American soldier's experiences and opinions on Peace Keeping and more. I've met a few American tourists who enjoy the peace of our wilderness and meeting 'friendly' Canadians who, in their words, are 'gentle'. I gave Brian a CD and he taught me a Norwegion term "Magnatusentak" meaning "many thousand thanks" Click here to see photos 56 Wednesday, August 24, 2005 I drive over 9 hours today. Along the way I stopped at The Canadian Carver for gas, coffee and a look around. The young clerks have obviously been well trained and understand the needs of travellers and tourists, unlike so many student clerks I've encountered, that I haven't told you about. They are only as effective as the adults who train them. Technically I'm off the Lake Superior route, but the Prairies are still aways away. I stop for the night in the pulp and paper city of Dryden. The weather has been gorgeous and I sit outside the hotel reading Robert Service from a collection of his poems. Click here to see photos 56 Thursday, August 25, 2005 My body says keep driving, but my brain says "show up"! So, as I drive through Kenora, I make a point to stop at HoJoes Cafe and Book Store on the main drag of this beautiful city. I have been corresponding with Tara through Kenora's Economic Development Officer, Annilee. It was my intention to stop weeks ago, stay and play, but my plans shifted when I took on the recording project and then decided to drive to Sudbury. As syncronicity would have it, I walked into the lovely venue to find both Tara and Annilee there. Annilee recognized me from my web page and called me by name. Tara moved back to her hometown of Kenora from Washington not long after 9-11. The whole experience shook her foundation and she rethought where she wanted to be and what she wanted to be doing with her life. So she retired from law and opened this business which in just half a year has become a meeting place, and a place of celebration of music, poetry and enlightenment. She is a woman with a purpose and a patron of the arts. I'm so glad I decided to 'show up'. I met up with Annile back at her office and she takes me to Haps where we sit on the patio and sip Baileys coffee. We are joined by a friendly American who begins with " I think your conversation has got to be more interesting than theirs" pointing to his 4 sidekicks at the next table. They are on a motorcycle trip from Montreal to California where they live, touring through the vast Canadian expanses, meeting Canadians and sharing their experience. We take this opportunity to ask their opinions from war and peace to Canadian history and geography (of which they know little), and answer their questions on our Canadian Health Care system, its benefits and faults. I throw the question out, "What is the difference between Canadians and Americans ?" They explain that because we look alike, speak alike and share culture in terms of music, tv, authors etc. that it is very difficult to tell us apart. It was an interesting afternoon. Great conversation wasn't dampened by the pouring rain but soon I'm back on the road in the slippery conditions, only two hours from Winnipeg. I’m starting to get excited about going home, back to Calgary. I have come to understand that I am a flatlander. No doubt about it. The Manitoba landscape is welcoming to these eyes. By the time I finish this 5 week adventure, I will have driven over 6000 km return. It has forced me to be alone, to think about growing up and growing old. I have had several revelations and a couple epiphanies. But what goes on in the brain and in the heart for that matter, is much more difficult to translate into action. I spent tonight in Winnipeg and tomorrow I’ll be at Judy's at Oak Lake Resort. Click here to see photos 56 Friday, August 26, 2005 Our conversations are never black and white, but filled with topics of great color from life and death to sharing the stories of a teenagers first kiss. I am so pleased to hear that the demo CD, In His Eyes, in just a week, has had great response. I grabbed my guitar and joined Judy in her visit with Lloyd at the Westman Nursing Home in Virden. John (the resident, who gave me the coloring book picture of Tigger he had colored) played his harmonica and sang from his wheelchair and later asked where I lived. He knew this was the last visit I would make to Virden on this trip. I told him I live in Calgary. “I’m going to come and visit you and have coffee with you” he explained, then his head dropped and he wheeled himself to the far corner of the room. He stayed there until the singing had ended. He knew as well a I, that he would never be leaving this ‘home’ to come to Calgary or anywhere else. I’m sure he was thinking ‘another friend made and gone’. There is a sadness in my heart that I can’t do anything more than entertain with music. I’ve committed time to singing in nursing homes for over 20 years – had many blessings and many heart wrenching feelings – but nothing as sad as what I’m feeling today. I feel for John. For Lloyd and Judy. But also for myself and those around me now. How will our lives play out? Where will we handle the Alziemer intruder? Where will we be at 80 something? And how will we cope? Click here to see photos 56 Saturday, August 27, 2005 As I leave Oak Lake and Judy’s hospitality I am thinking about Ann Morrow. “Staying in the stream” – the stream is like the road I’m on, sometimes smooth, often winding and bumpy. I’m learning that following the road and just “showing up” isn’t enough. I have to open my heart to new experiences and people too, even though it can be painful, like the nursing home. But the blessings of the smiles and connecting with the forgotten are so worth it. It was great to see 92 year old Audrey Snodgrass from Dauphin up at Riding Mountain National Park two weeks ago. She has always been a role model for me. Always learning, never giving in to societies expectations of growing old, in her eighties she decided to study law. And did. I’m grateful that Linda Wilkins found her walking that morning and brought her to our cabin to reminice. Speaking of Linda, I stop in Brandon to give her a demo CD of Judy’s song. The wicker chair we removed from the spare room is still sitting by the door. “See, the chair is still there. No need to put it back just in case you wanted to stay over again” Linda chuckles and I don’t hesitate to take her up on the offer. She mentions a friend of hers with Multiple Sclerosis who would probably love the company and a few songs, so she calls Diane. Diane is a cute red head who is attentive to every detail around her. She is pleased we brought pizza and it doesn’t take long to break into song. Warren, her husband gets back from baseball and grabs his old Gibson. We flip flop from the House of the Rising Sun to my originals then some John Denver and back to another original. Linda and I have a great time in their company and leave energized not ready for sleep yet. There is this tiny chapel …across from the Husky on the Transcanada just outside of Brandon, MB. It looks like something made for a wedding cake (My camera isn’t working and I couldn’t take any more photos) We grabbed a coffee at Tim Hortons then parked beside the chapel. “You think its open at this time of night?” I ask “Oh no. You’re not going to …yes you are aren’t you?” she sighed “I won’t if you don’t want to” I said “All right” Linda rolled her eyes, reluctant, but not about to miss this adventure. It was pretty hot in that little space at 10:30 pm. The neon lights of the truck stop offered just enough light for me to follow the gospel lyrics. The acoustics, although not as phenomenal as the Church of the Open Door, were still worthy of a chapel. I sang and we filled our hearts to capacity again. That night in our jammies, Linda told me about her second sailing lesson. I’m sure people might want her to be ‘safe’ and try to stop her from persuing her ambition of learning to sail but I’m so proud I’m grinning from ear to ear. She is a perfect candidate for my Doing It song. “It’s not like it’s illegal It’s not like I’d be fined Just trying to live my life before I die” It’s not like it’s illegal It’s not like I’d be wrong Just trying to live my life before I’m gone” These next few days are a blurr … I pick up my daughter in Dauphin and she drives most of the way to our planned half way point – Moose Jaw. We spend the night at a motel with a water slide. The water is bathwater warm, while a chilly rain pours hard outside. We have lots of fun breaking the rules swishing down the slide in all kinds of positions. I’m comforted not being alone tonight and having someone else in the room with me. While Carmie watches TV, I write. I think about these last 5 weeks filled with surprise and serendipity. Over 6000 km traveled and dozens of new friends to remember. On several occasions I was asked “What do you plan to achieve with your music” and “Are you trying to be famous”. (I wonder if nurses and teachers are asked these questions). Being famous is a simple issue. I am famous in the eyes of my children. They will look at no other woman like they look at me. Although not planned fame, it’s achieved. Leaving a legacy – now that’s another matter. “The great use of life is to spend it on something that outlasts it” What so few understand is the breadth and depth of music. How it heals, tells a story, documents history, or simply expresses the emotions of a generation. Music allows me to leave a legacy. Standing at the monument to Terry Fox in Thunder Bay, reminded me of his legacy of hope. Judy just celebrated her 65th birthday and the birth of her book and song , In His Eyes. She remembers crying when she turned 30 thinking her life was over. Would she have ever believed that she would have such a fulfilling writing career at 65 and her words and music to leave for a generation not yet born. And then there’s 92 year old Audrey and Linda W. and so many more who are reaching NOT outward for the stars but deep inside themselves for their own power. Ann Morrow Lindberg is of course an example of someone who has left something that has outlasted her life. Her message universal, crosses time and generation barriers : Stay In The Stream I know there are songs worthy to be written and songs worthy to be sung. I am worthy and you are worthy – at any age – to leave our own legacy in our own way. (Kate www.kate-lewis.com says she knows what she’s getting me for Christmas – a decorated soap box for all my speeches. Yep that’s me.) Click here to see photos 56 Wednesday, August 31, 2005 Calgary at last. - I’m Home! You know the feeling of pulling up to your house after a long trip. Exhausted, happy to be home and anxious for your own bed under you Ahhhh….. Thanks Doug (DFWeb Design) who has been editing my journal and has been so patient with me all along the way!! Thank you to everyone who sent emails along the way !! It was so appreciated! Here are a few September dates coming up. It would be good to see you !! (And yes, about Scotland for those who asked -I am going in Spring. And will journal.) Saturday, Sept 10, Jackdaws Pub, Calgary 9 – 1pm with Jim Munro and Tommy Hamilton Saturday, Sept 17, Turner Valley Festival, 1 pm Turner Valley Saturday, Sept 17, Drumheller Legion, Drumheller 7 pm Saturday, Sept 24, Fireside songs and stories with Phyllis Wheaton Signal Hill Library, Calgary 2-4 pm Saturday, Sept 24, Kate Lewis Show, 8 pm (I open for Kate) 8th Ave Songwriters Club, Calgary