The Changing Seasons

Despite the fact that it is pouring rain and will continue to do so for the next few days; I can't help but think of crisp sunny fall days and a strong cup of coffee at a sidewalk cafe. My choice of cafe indulgence would be in Paris.

Now if Mother Nature will be so kind and bring the sun back out just a little bit longer so we can sit at our sidewalk cafe and dream of Paris in Autumn.

Richard enjoying espresso in Paris.

Cappuccino at a street cafe {in Athens}.           image : GB@H

I am not a good cold weather person; so when the leaves are falling and the weather is brisk, even I can find comfort sitting outside snuggled up in layers while I enjoy strong hot coffee.

A cafe in Autumn on Ile de la Cite - Paris.      image : GB@H

Sweets help to keep the chill out....... it's true {if only because it makes us a bit more "insulated"}.

              

image : GB@H

via alltopics

Autumn brings a bit of ying-and-yang to our doorstep; we bundle up in big sweaters and scarves, and snuggle down in a chair on the sidewalk cafe with sunglasses on. The last warmth of the fall sun reminds us that summer may be stepping aside, but she will be back.

Outdoor dining at Hotel Particulier               image : GB@H

Communities all around Ontario celebrate Fall and the fruits of the summer vine with elaborate OctoberFest events. So if sidewalk cafes are not your thing, check your local town event calendar for patio festivities that feature menu's generously laden with beer, wine, fruits, and cheeses. You may be surprised to discover how many of these specialties are produced locally.

I know that no matter what the season or the temperature, I always have my HONEY to keep me warm {and to enjoy the patio together}.

Enjoying the fall patio with Richard in Arles, France.    

Enjoy the crisp, golden days of Autumn and the last few weeks on the patio.

Historical Place of Workship

I was buzzing around on the net and this image of a beautiful church ceiling caught my eye. I decided it was worth a bit of investigating to discover more about this elegant and architecturally detailed place of worship.

This is the Unitarian Church in Charleston, South Carolina.

The gothic revival architectural style church was originally built in 1772. The style is referred to as English Perpendicular Gothic Revival.

 

The fan-vaulted ceiling is painted a light sky blue and is highlighted by the elaborate white details.

James Oliver photography

James Oliver Photography

In 1886 an earthquake struck and demolished the church's top tower. The new tower was built with a modified design to the original structure, to ensure that stability to the building was maintained.

 

The beauty of the church was challenged again when Hurricane Hugo hit the area of Charleston. The roof was lost during the storm, but the repairs were carried out with the specifications of the Thomas Silloway who had originally repaired the church over 100 years prior in the design style set out by Francis Lee.
 In 1973 the church was declared a National Historic Landmark.

With Thanks

We are celebrating Thanksgiving this weekend {in Canada}. 

Martha Stewart

I've always know that it is what I cannot see, that I am most thankful for. 

The most important things in life are not things. 

As we gather around the table to share our Thanksgiving dinner, I will give Thanks for:

 My Children, my Granddaughter, my Family, my loving relationship with Richard. 

We are fortunate, we are blessed.

Remember each and every day to give thanks.

Happy Thanksgiving.