First Paddle

Today was the day for the first paddle of the year for me.

Warm sunshine, gentle breeze, low water level,

no swarms of bugs.

Life lines II

Life lines

Fishing

Loons are calling, ticks are hitching rides, and all sorts of creatures are fishing... herons, humans...

The town of Ely and the area lakes are starting to liven up with the busy season. The Chocolate Moose is open (cheers all around!!!), and the time to look twice or thrice before crossing the street is upon Ely-ites once again. Ely is a cool place to be... no question of this during the winter months with the well-below zero temperatures, and in the summer we have a plentitude of lakes that serve up a refreshing dip as needed when steamy summer days creep in. Now this cool factor has been verified by a online voting contest, where Ely was voted America's Coolest Small Town for 2010! See BudgetTravel.com.

Listen. Just listen.

This reminds me of a quote that goes something like... "Ah, how good it feels, the hand of an old friend!" (Longfellow) But, I think not so much of the hand, but of the ear, and the willingness to listen, just listen. Ah, how good it feels to have the support of good friends willing to listen. Kiitoksia.

One day bloom

The transplant has a one day bloom.

The cactus reminds me...

of Arizona, a place I love to explore.

My good friends are moving to Arizona.

Another good friend has it as a possibility.

Stars align, and...

View from the top

I see no evidence of a path in this dense forest. Perhaps there is no path and never was. Just wishful thinking in hopes of an easy, Sunday afternoon stroll...

Helicopters

Helicopter, helicopter, over my head.

I choose a color, and the color is... red!

Spring green abounds, now interspersed with bits of red as the maples sprout their leaves. The forest plants are growing - crowding out the empty spaces.

News from Heidi Mae

In celebration of spring and the approaching summer season, the Lyric Center for the Arts is presenting its OPEN WATER exhibit. Four of my favorite "open water" prints will be included in the show: three Lake Superior images and one of Lake Vermilion. Featuring a number of local artists, this group exhibit will be May 6 - June 19 with an opening reception this Thursday, May 6 from 6:30 - 8:00 pm.

My "open water" favorites that will be in the show:

Sailing Out... and In - Lake Superior

Clearing the Clouds - Lake Superior

Peace - Lake Superior Sunset

Solitaire - Lake Vermilion

Hope to see you at the reception! The Lyric Center is located at 514 Chestnut Street in Virginia, MN. See the Lyric Center's blog for more information and gallery hours.

World Tai Chi and Qigong Day Celebration

On Saturday, April 24th, World Tai Chi and Qigong Day, an event held around the globe in more than 65 countries, was celebrated in Ely. Chickadee Tai Chi classes shared the Tai Chi forms they have been studying, and Rebecca Kali of Dao of Well Being led the group in simple and easy Qigong forms for health and longevity. Here are some photos from the event, which was well attended and rejuvenating, relaxing, and, just as important, so much fun!

You may also read more about the event in this article published in the TimberJay, one of our local newspapers: http://www.timberjay.com/detail/6869.html.

All ages participated in the Standing Qigongs.

Rebecca Kali leads the group in Qigong.

The Tai Chi for Health class demonstrates the Sun Style 37 Forms.

The Advanced Tai Chi class performs the Combined 42 Forms.

News from Heidi Mae

Happy May Day! I am excited to announce that matted prints of my photographs are now on display and available for purchase at Silver Lake Floral in Virginia, Minnesota! Located at 303 Chestnut Street and a long-time favorite floral shop in this area, they now carry several local artists' work in addition to their fine floral arrangements. If you are in Virginia, be sure to stop by as they have a wonderfully cheery atmosphere and are always ready to create just the right arrangement for your occasion. See also: Silver Lake Floral.