The Humbug Bush

I LOVE Christmas decorations.  One of my favourite things used to be heading to the Hallmark store or Carlton Cards to see the newest decorations.  They used to come out in July and plenty of people would complain about it, but I loved it and looked forward to it.  Those stores no longer exist here so how does a Christmas addict survive?  Well, obviously, a trip to the Festival of Trees at the Western Development Museum (WDM) of course!

It must be 20 years since the first time we ever took in this event.  It used to coincide with the Sundog Craft Fair at SaskTel Centre but since that time the dates have changed.  It used to be a weekend where we'd kick off our holidays and go to these things with my in-laws or parents.  It was lots of fun!

I started seeing ads pop up on Facebook and checked into the dates and admission.  It's just $12.95 per adult and you get admission to the entire museum.  That's pretty reasonable.  The only issue was my Hubby's dislike of crowds, so it took a lot of convincing to make him agree to go with me this year.  We decided the best time to go might be Sunday during the Santa Claus Parade.

We arrived at a small line at the admission counter but after about a 5–10 minutes wait we were admitted to Boomtown.  The decorated Christmas trees lined the pioneer era street and white snowflakes dangled from the ceiling.  There were Christmas trees of every description and theme.  Most of the trees had white lights and themed coloured decorations.  Some stand outs were the Peanuts tree, the tribute to the Queen and two different trees decorated with teacups!  Hubby's favourite were decorated in contrast with black which really surprised me.  One tree even had a raven as the tree topper!  

The Christmas trees were priced and most of them had sold signs.  The most expensive was $1800 and included a wreath and other decor besides the tree itself.  

As mentioned, Hubby is not that fond of the season but then again, I have more than enough Christmas cheer for both of us.  He refers to our Christmas tree as "The Humbug Bush" and we often call each other Scrooge and Cratchet!  My Humbug Bush...er, Christmas tree is not themed or perhaps the theme is purely CHRISTMAS.  There's lots of ornaments which are meaningful to me and were collected from trips, from students and from family.  There's every colour in decoration, Snoopy's, Grinch's, snowflakes, mittens, trucks...and the list goes on and on, all topped off with an angel.  Christmas lights are my favourite colour!  

I don't think anyone would pay for my tree.

Do you have a theme for your Christmas tree?  

We spent nearly 3 hours gazing at the Christmas trees, walking amongst the buildings, looking at the Eaton's display, the retro cars and marveling over the Gingerbread Lane gingerbread houses.  There was one house which was a replica from Home Alone called "Merry Christmas, ya Filthy Animal" and it was hard to believe that it was edible.  My gingerbread houses never look like that!

It was a very very good afternoon and if you have never taken in the Festival of Trees, I'd urge you to do so.  When we were leaving, the admission line was out the building and into the parking lot, so it is a very popular Saskatoon event.  They do have special events and pictures with Santa so it's well worth the time to check out.

Upon arriving home, we made a nice cup of hot cocoa basked in the glow of our Humbug Bush and I'd dare to say our Grinchy hearts grew at least one size.

A One Hour Tour

For several years.....well, at least the last three years I've wanted to go on a riverboat tour on the South Saskatchewan River.  There used to be two riverboats named Saskatoon Princess and Meewasin Queen. [Meewasin means 'beautiful' in Cree.] The appeal grew greater last year when a new riverboat was brought in called the Prairie Lily.

Prairie Lily was born in Wisconson.  She was a charter ship sailing on the Colorado River until last year when Sheerwater Marine Services of Saskatoon bought her.  The Prairie Lily is a 63 foot 107 ton passenger riverboat.

The forecast was good and I convinced Hubby that we MUST go.  We've waited long enough.....and for what?!  Tickets were purchased online for $20 a person.  Boarding time was 6pm Wednesday.

The plan was that Hubby would come home from work and I've have toasted tomato sammiches ready to eat.  It was so we could get to the Mendel Art Gallery loading dock in time.  I did have it all ready, but when Hubby arrived home the weather had gotten unfavourable.  The wind had kicked up and I was becoming disappointed that it wouldn't be a nice evening like we had been experiencing.

Phooey.

I ended up wearing capris, my black sparkly sneakers, tank top & a bunny hug.  That's a hoodie for all you non-Saskies.  We were on time for boarding but others were not.  It seemed that there was a group of coworkers and they weren't arriving on time.  Boarding seemed to take forever because of it.  We finally disembarked around 6:30.

" I'm King of the World! "

We sailed by the tents of Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan on one side of the river and the University of Saskatchewan on the other.  Something I did not know before was that attractive graystone building near the top end of the University bridge was built to house University Presidents, which it has done to this day. And, in fact, whenever British royalty visits the City, they are accommodated in this grand old house while the University President of the day is moved temporarily to the Bessborough Hotel.  I would have thought the royalty would stay in the hotel!

The Prairie Lily sailed under 4 bridges.  Saskatoon has many bridges both for cars and trains.  It seems like there are never enough either!  


On the cruise we found out facts about the river.  We were told that it's really not that deep.  It's only 1 or 2 metres deep and the riverboat has to follow a particular channel of 2 or 3 metres deep.  Because of this, we were shown how to use life jackets and boats but were told we could likely just take a leisurely walk to shore!

Next we sailed by the Bessborough Hotel.  I've blogged about it before.  Again, I learned things I did not know!  This grand old lady was built by the railroad between 1928 and 1932, but was unable to open until 1935 because of financial woes caused by the Great Depression. The hotel boasts 225 rooms; its modern French Renaissance design is similar to the other famous railway hotels across Canada.  Design features include 32 unique gargoyle - like statues at front and sides. Of course, Grotesques and gargoyles are normally images of mythological creatures but the ones on the hotel are images of Saskatchewan creatures like buffalo, beaver, moose, and deer and even a giant bumblebee!  I would have never known this!  I also learned that falcons make homes on the top of the Bess! So cool!

We were told about the role of the South Saskatchewan River during the Riel Rebellion.  We were told about the Victoria Bridge which is being dismantled.  We were told about a ship wreck!  Then everyone became quiet as we passed some very stately homes.  I marveled at the yards....the winding paths to the river and gorgeous flowers.  How lucky those people are to be able to enjoy our river.  However, it was ruled that the land along the river will no longer be used for homes and be for public purposes instead as parks etc.  I love that idea of conservation.

We turned to return to our launching point.  We were told to look off one side of the riverboat as we were being welcomed back by a beaver!  You can't get much more Canadian than that!

We loved the cruise.  Hubby was so glad I insisted on going and wondered why it took us so long to do it.  We walked very happily back to our car just as the sun was setting on another memorable adventurous evening.

The Wheels on the Bus Go.....Hot Diggety Dog!

Hubby was at the kitchen counter gulping down fresh cherries left and right when I wandered in.  I said, "You know, if you wanted to take your fancy schmancy camera and go for a walk I have an idea.  I've always wanted to go to the red double decker bus.  We can get a hotdog and wander through the park."

He looked at me.

Then he looked at his cherries.

Then he responded, "Well, I may as well eat the rest.  There's only 5 left."

So we hopped in the Honda and cruised into downtown Saskatoon and found a very lucky parking spot right down the street of the picturesque Bessborough Hotel and across the street from the Red Bus Refreshment double decker bus.  After perusing the menu we decided on the Riverbank Frank for $5 each.  We had a choice of  4 toppings.....I got the usual ketchup, mustard, relish and mayo.  Hubby had pickles, sauerkraut, mustard and salsa.  He is adventurous after all!

The back view of the bus.

We walked to the corner where there were several park benches and sat and ate our huge hot dogs.  The bus offers many things ranging from ice cream, frozen yoghurt, ice tea, lemonade, floats, popcorn and our dogs.  This is the first time that I've ever gotten something from the bus and yes, it was on my Sand Bucket List.

The view from our park bench.

When we were finished our lunch we walked across the street to the Bessborough Hotel.  The Bess was built as many were for the railroad.  It is an outstanding feature for our city.  It's known as the Castle on the River and is a major landmark.  It's a very interesting building and some say it has ghosts!  I tried to take pictures of some of the interesting architecture including the gargoyles sitting atop the roof.

Can you spot the gargoyle?

We walked along the paths of the park adjacent to the hotel.....it is the same place the Taste of Saskatchewan was.....but this time, being empty of food tents, it was reminiscent of the great lawn in Central Park.  I found a maple leaf on the trail and picked it up and carried it the entire way with me.  [I set it free before we left :) ]  In the middle of the park is a band stand that is dedicated to those who fought at Vimy Ridge.

Hubby's Hand, my leaf, the Vimy memorial & South Saskatchewan River.

Saskatoon is known as the City of Bridges.  In fact, we just had a brand new bridge, the South Bridge, open last week!  We ventured close to one of them, the Broadway Bridge, and snapped a few neat pictures.

Right under the bridge!

We meandered down the paths and found the ornate back gate open to the Bessborough Gardens.  I bet it was an interesting place back in the day. 

We continued on until we got to the spot where the skating rink is during the winter.  Hubby remarked, "No one is skating today."

Riding on the Prairie Lily is also on my Sand Bucket List!

By this time we were getting a little thirsty and a Tim Hortons was nearby so we went there.  I had a gift card to use.  I got an ice cap while Hubby got a raspberry lemonade.  On our way back to the car we walked by his work and a couple other business.

Street fleurs with church in the background.

It was fun and relaxing and made for a beautiful day!  I love where I live and I am so appreciative of the things we have here to enjoy.  In the words of my brother in law, I can't believe you have this here!

Taste of Saskatchewan

I'm thinking it's been at least 5 years since we've taken in Taste of Saskatchewan.  I remember it was so hot and there wasn't any place to sit and we had to huddle under a tree to eat.  That doesn't sound like much fun does it?  Well lot's can change in that length of time and I thought Hubby and I should take the opportunity to sample the cuisine from different eateries and listen to some local talent.

Parking was INSANE!  We had to park about a 10 to 15 minute walk from the park where it takes place.  I'm sure they call it Kinsmen Park but it's located to side of the picturesque Bessborough Hotel.  We bought 11 tickets at $2.50 each.  Most dishes were 2 tickets each with some desserts and drinks being only 1.  Each venue offers 3 choices.

Both, Hubby and I had scouted out the website which had the list of 30 restaurants taking part in the event.  We decided our first stop would be to a brand new place.....so new in fact that it doesn't open until tomorrow.....the Bell & Whistle Bar & Bistro.  We ordered the Sundried Tomato Bruschetta.  Hubby is all over Bruschetta lately since he got it at Pizza Pirates.  It was presented to us in a cup much like those from the fro-yo places.....the bruschetta was in the bottom and the bread was rising out of it like the rocks of Stonehenge.  It was good.  No it wasn't the best we've had.  The bread wasn't toasted but yet was almost....I have no idea what they did to it.  The tomato was a little too tomato sauce like and not really chunky as we've had it before.

We ate under a tree.

In the next booth was Saboroso Brazilion Steakhouse.  It was my turn to order so I chose Picanha Taco which was a shredded prime cut of beef.  How it was presented was a taco with the beef on top and then I got to choose from toppings.  I choose guacamole and a tomato/corn salsa.  I really enjoyed this dish.  The beef wasn't really anything special, but the toppings were amazing and really made it delicious!

Moving along we stopped at La Bamba.  Now, a loooooong time ago Hubby and I tried to go to this place and people were lined up out the door.  After tasting some of their food, I now know why!  We ordered the Tostadas de Pollo with refried beans.  Holy smokes were the refried beans amazing!  I don't know what they did to them but I've never ever had refried beans like that!  The tostada was filled with a flaked chicken and had a lemon cilantro sauce.  The combination was really good.

We wandered around looking at the various booths.  Some of them were places we've already been to while others Hubby had heard didn't give very much for the tickets.  Some of his coworkers had already been there for lunch.  So we stopped at a place and a restaurant which we found last fall and totally fell in love with the Louisiana cuisine.  Hubby ordered Jambalaya from Mardi Gras Grill.  It came with two giant shrimp and nice pile of rice and the sauce.  It was perfect.  It wasn't too mild and wasn't too hot.  Then Hubby decided we should get the dessert from that booth too.....Flambe Bananas Foster Cheesecake.  This might be the most incredible dessert I have ever eaten since New York.  PLUS we got to see the chef actually flambe the bananas.  They tasted like cinnamon and rum but it wasn't over powering and those flavours along with the bananas and cheesecake.....well......*faints*

To finish things off, I went to the booth right next to Mardi Gras Grill - the Winston's English Pub and ordered what I had seen everyone walking around with.....the Saskatoon Berry Iced Tea.  I've had it other places before but I really liked this drink.  It wasn't too sweet and yet was very refreshing.

On the bandstand during the whole even is various entertainment.  When we first got there, my coworker who is a violin teacher was performing with one of her bands.  By the time we got to the bandstand that band was done and packing up.  Phooey!  So with our tummies full we decided to take a scenic walk back to the car along the walking path of the South Saskatchewan River.

The Bessborough Hotel & Garden on the bank of the river.

Kinsmen Fountain with the Bessborough in the background.

The University Bridge.

Sand Bucket Update 1

Football CHECK!

5.  Football!  OMG FOOTBALL!  Even before the football season starts.....there will be training camp and if you've followed the news or not....Roughrider training camp is taking place in my very own city.  I hope to be able to attend at least once.  That starts June 2nd.  At the end of that week they hold their annual Green & White Day which I've attended for many years now.  Check out Riderville North for what I might be up to!

If you are interested in reading about my experience at Training Camp click the following link for my Football blog:  What I Learned At Training Camp

To keep tabs on my bucket list, check it out here:  10 Thought Tuesday ~ Sand Bucket List ~

10 Thought Tuesday ~ Sand Bucket List ~

The idea behind the bucket list [which I personally feel is overused, but here I am using it] is to make a list of things to do or accomplish before you kick the bucket.  Well, I don't plan on kicking the bucket soon, but I do feel summer days are numbered.  I have 6 more Tuesdays until I am on summer holidays.  I don't want to miss out on anything and since when we go to the beach in the summer we use sand pails, I decided this list would be dedicated to things I want to make sure I do this summer.  I present to you....my Sand Bucket List.

1.  In the downtown across the street from the historic and possibly haunted Bessborough Hotel is a red double decker bus called Bus Stop Refreshments.  I have never gone there.  The reviews are mixed.  It's been there forever so I don't think we have anything to worry about.  It might be fun to have lunch and eat it in the park or have an authentic froyo.  I want to make sure I hit this place up! The Wheels on the Bus Go....Hot Diggety Dog!

2.  Last year I vowed I'd go on a river boat cruise.  How did that work out?  We didn't do it.  It only costs $40 and is a beautiful cruise down the South Saskatchewan.  I've been on cruises in Seattle and NYC....why haven't I done it in my own city?  Shearwater Riverboat Cruises.   A One Hour Tour

3.  Of course I will spend time reading books.  I think that's a given.  I want to spend some time at McNally Robinson book store.  I always forget what pretty gifts they have there.  Inside the bookstore is an eatery called Prairie Ink.  I want to browse books and enjoy some time in the restaurant. There is no blog for this one.  I didn't do it.  Well, I sort of did it.  I went to Indigo books because I had a gift card.

4.  This weekend we are going to get out and scratch in the dirt.  My flower/shrub bed looks a disaster.  Lot's of plants are already poking through.  It's tough on me to get out and work in it during the day due to my sun allergy, but I plan on spending many an evening tending to it.  The best part is then enjoying time on the patio swinging in out deck glider, hopefully not swatting mosquito's, but gazing at sunsets.  My Natural Habitat

5.  Football!  OMG FOOTBALL!  Even before the football season starts.....there will be training camp and if you've followed the news or not....Roughrider training camp is taking place in my very own city.  I hope to be able to attend at least once.  That starts June 2nd.  At the end of that week they hold their annual Green & White Day which I've attended for many years now.  Check out Riderville North for what I might be up to!  Check out this blog to read all about it!  What I Learned At Training Camp

6.  Hubby's brodder is going to be coming this way....to the In Law's for a visit.  I'm sure we will travel to Norquay to see him, our sister in law and our great nephew!  Check this blog out for details of our trip!  Weekend with Family.

7.  August 14th is the day Hubby and I will go to Regina to the Paul McCartney concert at Mosaic Stadium.  That is going to be so thrilling.  While we are there.....I've found the Italian Star Deli which has cannoli!!!!  My quest for cannoli is never ending.  I hope to stop in and bring some home. My Paul McCartney Out There experience.

8.  Did you know Saskatoon has a Broadway?  It's true.  I want to spend some time wandering up and down the street.  I also want to stop in at the Broadway Cafe.  It's done up in 50's 60's decor and although reviews call it trashy....it looks pretty cool from the outside.  I think it might be a fun stop after an afternoon of browsing the interesting shops on the street.  As time went on I wanted to do this less and less.  I've shopped on Broadway before but there were two armed robberies on this street this summer.  I didn't feel safe doing this alone and it just didn't seem as important anymore.

9.  Taste of Saskatchewan.  This happens downtown near the Bessborough Hotel as well.  It's where restaurants open food booths and you get to try different cuisine from all over the province.  The last time we went it was what felt like the hottest day of the year.  We found a tiny square of shade under a tree.  There's entertainment in a band shelter.  We haven't gone for a few years and I think this year is the time to go. Our new Taste of Saskatchewan visit with amazing flambe dessert!

10.  Picnic!  I want to pack up the wiener sticks, the cooler and head out somewhere for a good old fashioned picnic.  It feels good to get out of the city, build a fire and cook over it and come home smelling all woodsy.  If we don't get to go camping this summer.....a picnic will fit the bill.  Wieners weren't involved but I think it still counts!  Day Trip & Picnic to Gardiner Dam

I don't know if I'll get to do all of these things or just some of these things.  I know I will probably get to do things that are outside this list as well.  I just don't want to waste a minute after enduring the longest winter ever.  What's on your Sand Bucket List?

Adventures in Dining

At the beginning of August I googled Saskatoon looking for some different restaurants to take Hubby for his birthday.  I found an excellent blog called Wonderlust and Words.  I found the name of two places to visit.  The Mardi Gras Grill and The Hollows.  Well that weekend of my Hubby's birthday was a long weekend and our timing was poor and it turned out that neither establishment was open.

Phooey.

We've driven by Mardi Gras Grill several times since then.  We've been checking to see if the parking lot is full.  But we somehow never found the time to stop.

Hubby took the day off work today.  He went out and about and attended to yard work while I did some chores inside.  Then around 3:30 pm I went outside and posed the question:  What do you want for supper OR would you like to go out for supper?  Out it was and off to Mardi Gras Grill we went.

It's located downtown on a busy street but the paid parking is ample.  It is housed in a building that was formerly a sports bar.  The outside has been painted and I'm sure the inside was renovated as well.  There are three photo paintings adorning the walls.  I over heard the waitress telling another patron that her aunt took the photo's in New Orleans but didn't like how they turned out so she painted pictures over them.  Genius!  They are the prefect decor.

There are both booths and tables with chairs as well as an outside patio.  There weren't many people there even though it was soon the supper rush.  We were brought a complimentary plate of corn bread.  I've had corn bread many times before and even made it myself but it never turned out like this!  It appeared and tasted like it was baked, then squared, then toasted or grilled.  It was tasty!


For an appetizer we ordered Fried Green Tomatoes.  Ever since the movie, it's something I've wanted to try.  "For Towanda!!!!!"  They were served with 4 giant shrimp, 6 slices of tomato and salad greens with a sauce.  Hubby ate the shrimp as they aren't my favourite.  I did love the tomatoes.  I would order that appetizer for a lunch as well.  It was great.

Hubby's meal was called Taste of New Orleans and consisted of Gumbo, Jambalaya and Etouffee.  He was given instructions on how to eat the craw fish.  This meal was enough to feed two people!  Hubby tried hard but couldn't quite finish everything.  Not totally being a seafood fan, I ordered the Pulled Pork Po' Boy with fries.  It was the most extraordinary sandwich I've ever had!  I ate the sandwich but couldn't finish the fries which were undoubtedly home made since they didn't resemble anything out of my freezer.

We were stuffed.  The waitress, who I found out is the wife of the chef asked if we wanted beignets.  I asked if we could get them to go.  She said yes.  So they were given to us hot but we were advised to keep the package open or they'd shrivel up.  The donut type dessert had powdered sugar and a dollop of blueberry preserve.  It's our midnight snack tonight.

It was delicious cajun creole cuisine just as promised and just what Saskatoon has been missing.

The Hood is a Changin'

When I first moved to Toon Town, I gave my neighbours nicknames because I didn't know their real names.  I had hopes that we'd be the kind of block that got together for parties and sat out on the lawn and had coffee and were friends.  None of that happened in the way I wished it would.  There was Neighbour Fred, The Rider Fans & Nice Neighbour.  I even blogged about them in another blog life.

Not all the original families are here.  Corrine was my immediate neighbour but moved away before we lived here a year.  There's been 3 families since Corrine.  Joel and Josie are the best next door neighbours we've ever had.  They do have parties and they do invite us.  Sometimes we go and sometimes we don't, but we always say hello and share our gardening tips over the fence.

Nice Neighbour is exactly what his name describes.  He's nice.  When he's outside working he'll wave.  He walks his little white dog and stops and talks.  He's told us he appreciates us as good neighbours.  He's chatted about our new fence and he's even said "Pop in for coffee, Dorothy and I would like it."  Dorothy!  That's the name of his wife!  Ten years later, I have no idea what Nice Neighbour's name is, but I always chat with him and I always wave back.

Next to Nice Neighbour is a new family.  I think they are Filipino and that's just fine.  There are little kids who ride bikes and play outside.  It's nice to see kids in the neighbourhood again.  There haven't been any for a long time.  So far, this family doesn't have a nickname.

Directly across from our house are The Rider Fans.  I called them that before I knew I was one as well.  They are better described as Tim Horton addicts though.  Whenever they leave, they always ALWAYS return with coffee from Timmies.  Yes, they still dress in green on game day, their little kids are clad now too, and so are we.

Next we have Neighbour Fred.  Hubby calls him Meticulous Neighbour because he is forever cutting his lawn or weeding or watering.  They've done a lot of work on their house.  Since we've lived here they've done a new gate, new driveway, and resided the house.  I'm sure there were renovations inside as well.....we just can't see them.  I've talked to Neighbour Fred up close a few times.  They've always been good and looked out for the well being of all in the hood.  I am thankful for that.

This spring Hubby was at work and was taking the elevator when a lady introduced herself as Cindy.  Here it turns out she is Neighbour Fred's wife.  Hubby had been working in the same building for 2 years in different departments.

When we first moved here their teenage boys would practise their skate boarding out on the sidewalk.  Brandy would bark at them. Then we watched them move away.  Now they return with little kids of their own.  It's the evolution of the neighbourhood  I suppose.

This evening I looked out the living room window.  There is a newly planted For Sale sign on the lawn at Neighbour Fred and Cindy's. 

It's sad to see a good neighbour go.  But on the up side, someone new will move in.  Maybe they'll be the sit on the stoop and visit type.  I'm hoping. 

FolkFest ~*~Final Day~*~

FolkFest this year had 16 pavilions.  They are located at different parts of the city.  None of the pavilions were on the North or West parts of Saskatoon.  Today there were some road closures for road repairs making it difficult on festival goers.  We decided to go to the eastern part of the city where three pavilions were being held because traffic didn't seem to be an issue in those parts.

We headed to the soccer centre.  It is large enough to hold maybe 3 pavilions but this year they were calling it the Global Village.  Inside the one auditorium were Laos and Oromo.  There were several booths selling wares.  I was really attracted to the bone jewellery.  It was only $5 for a bone bracelet.  I also really liked a small heart shaped bowl made in Kenya that was inexpensive as well.  But I left both behind.  Sometimes I am overwhelmed with choices and just decide on nothing!  The Laos dancing reminded me of a Hawaaian dance.  It was very fluid with hand gestures.  The dancing at Oromo reminded me more of Indian dancing with a lot of stamping of feet and hopping.

Oromo Coffee Ceremony Display

We did not eat from the offerings of these two pavilions but it really smelled delicious.  Oromo is very well known for it's coffee and had a coffee ceremony hut.  They were not showing the ceremony while we were there but the placement of the utensils and seating reminded me of the Chinese Tea Ceremony which we saw two years ago at the Asia-Pacific Pavilion.  I do wish we could have seen the Coffee Ceremony as we do enjoy our coffee!

Not far away, just a hot jaunt through the parking lot and down the street, was the Norwegian pavilion.  I mention the heat because today it was 30*C if not warmer.  The Norwegian pavilion inside and out of St. Joseph's school was very hot.  We always enjoy this display because Hubby's heritage is Norwegian and Swedish.  They had several booths set up selling items.  I marveled at the Hardanger which is a form of needlepoint and cutwork.  I've made small items myself but it is very tricky when cutting away the cloth after you've toiled at the needlework!  We laughed at the t-shirts which read "Does this shirt make me look Norwegian?" 

We saw several Trolls and like the fairy tales they are homely little creatures!  You could stand with a backdrop and have your picture taken with some of the Trolls too!

Outside the back of the school there were real live Vikings!  When we saw them they were resting in their tent.  However, they are a rowdy bunch and tend to get into fights.  We overheard some excited children talking about it.  I noticed the children were wearing home made tee shirts that read Around the World Birthday Party and thought what a wonderful idea!!

Hubby and I stood in the food line which was probably the best organized of all the food stops.  I had a meatball plate which came with Swedish meatballs in a mushroom dill gravy, beet salad and lefse.  Lefse is a tortilla like flatbread made with potatoes instead of flour.  Hubby had.....guess?  HA!  Herring on toast!  As well as, smoked salmon with cream cheese on bread and a single roll of lefse with butter and sugar.  Remembering the sign behind the counter, "Why take chances, eat dessert", I opted for an almond tart. 

Scandinavian Fudge

There was a fudge counter and it was fun to read the names of the fudge.  Olie cookies & cream.  Fjord rocky road.  Hannah butterscotch.  I snapped a picture and the lady mused that there were less calories my way.  *grin*

Lady making Krumkake in a waffle iron.

We also treated ourselves to Krumkake.  Krumkake, in my opinion, is the Scandinavian answer to Italian Cannoli.  It is a batter which is cooked in a special Krumkake iron....like a waffle iron, and then molded around a cone.  In Hubby's family, the Krumkake is filled with a cream and sometimes has candies or sprinkles on top.  It is delish!  The ladies making it were having a hard time to keep up with the supply at $1 each, but sadly they were not filling them with anything.  They sure were yummy though and the smell wafted through the whole pavilion.

We decided that was it for our round the world tour.  We didn't go to the Bangladesh, Brazilian, German, India, Irish or Ukrainian pavilions.  We have done some of them in previous years.  The Ukrainian and German are always good but always packed full.  I think the most memorable and fun was the Indian/Métis pavilion and I would definitely take that one in again.  It was great fun and for the price of a passport $15 we indeed took in world class entertainment.

FolkFest 2012 ~*~Day Two~*~

What another incredible day!  We started at the Asia-Pacific pavilion.  We arrived right on time for the first performance of the day.  This featured Amazing Lion, Folk Dance, Yoyo, and Martial Arts according to the program.  The Amazing Lion was similar to the dragon dances that I've seen before except this time there were three lions and they seemed to be tamed by the 2 little girl dancers.  There were several folk dances from different regions.  The Yogo demonstration was very interesting.  It's unlike a regular yoyo.  Instead, you hold two sticks joined by a string and you balance what is similar to a spinning top.  If that wasn't enough, they go through different moves to make the top jump or spin and at one time they even juggled it!

The Amazing Lion.  Note the large head in front of me...murphy's law.

The most impressive part of the Asia-Pacific pavilion was the Kung-foo fighters!  It was listed as Martial Arts but was so much more.  Think Jackie Chan or Bruce Lee!  They wore colourful satin costumes.  The ages seemed to range from about 7 to late teens.  What I loved most was the way it was choreographed the girl and the smallest boy won the fight!  I wish I was able to take a photo but the movements changed so quickly it would just be a blur.

We left the Asia-Pacific to take in the South American-Mexican pavilion.  This venue is small.  It took place in a church in a busy part of the city with tough parking.  We parked a block away at a grocery store and walked.  Inside the pavilion it was crowded and hot....and I mean HOT.  It was very difficult to find seating but did at a table.  We were able to watch a singer and two dances and then the tour with the mayor arrived.

The unthinkable happened.

A woman came to our table and told the entire table that we had to leave because they needed the seats for the tour and so people could eat.

We were basically kicked out.

South American-Mexican pavilion you totally failed us.  FAILED!

We decided to take in the Indian-Métis pavilion.  Outside the Indian-Métis Friendship Centre [the venue] was a giant tipi was on display.  We were greeted by two girls in a traditional dress.  They extended their hands in welcome.  

We decided to eat since it was passed our meal time.  Their mealtime offerings were extensive.  Hubby decided on a buffalo burger with the works, but I wanted to try something more ethnic so got a combo plate that included dried fish, wild rice and bannock.  The best thing happened.  While I claimed a seat and waited for Hubby to bring our food a man approached me and asked if he and his wife could sit with us since there was room.  I said of course they could.  The man's name was Henry Gardipy and was a performer at the pavilion!!!  He and his wife tour to multicultural events and casino's all over Canada.  Henry said that he and his wife sing but their son learned to dance instead and now that he's grown he tours as well.  They were such a nice couple and had a great sense of humour and it was easy to talk with them.

Hoop Dancers.  I saw such pride on their faces.

We excused ourselves to watch the entertainment.  When we first entered the auditorium the hoop dance was going on.  It appears that in order to be a hoop dancer you need to be able to hold several hoops at once entwined around your body in several constantly morphing poses.  We were treated to the talents of Dallas Fiddler-Boyer and Phil Boyer who played the fiddle and guitar.  The fiddle player kept time with interesting foot movements.  I think if he were standing he'd be jigging all over the stage.  We heard Krystal Pederson sing and perform an amazing rendition of Ava Maria.  

The most incredible part was what happened next.  There were dances performed by women and the stories were so interesting of how the dances came to be.  I love the humour too!  But then a man came to the circle who was wearing a very impressive headress of feathers as well as feathers around his waist and bottom.  He danced with a stern look on his face.  I couldn't help but smile the whole time.  I loved it.

But then......

It was time for the round dance and they wanted people out of the audience to help out.  Hubby looked mortified.  The feathered man pulled me out to participate and before you know it Hubby was standing at the circle too!  Then the drum started and we all held hands and danced in a circle.

They said that in tradition a round dance could last until all hours of the night.  I'm glad the song only lasted a few minutes!

It was amazing.  If you ever have the chance to participate in something like a round dance.  Do it!  DO IT! 

FolkFest 2012 ~*~Day One~*~

Every year the city of Saskatoon holds a three day event called FolkFest.  FolkFest is a multicultural celebration through a series of pavilions dedicated to different countries and nationalities.  Every year there are additions and subtractions.

We purchased our passports ahead of time at the Safeway.  Notice I said passport?  It's a little book just like your very own government issued passport minus the gruesome photo.  This little book has a page for each pavilion which gets a unique stamp once visited, just like your real passport.

The Saskatoon Pipe Band

We decided since there are five pavilions located at the same location, Prairieland Exhibition, that it would be a great start to the festivities.  A couple years ago we really enjoyed ourselves at the Scottish Pavilion.  It was great once again.  There were tables with people selling Scottish goods - everything from sweets to kilts.  We took in the main stage and saw the Saskatoon Pipe Band playing bagpipes, which are very impressive in person.  There was a pub and cafe offering haggis, shepherds pie and shortbread among other things.  I've tried haggis and actually liked it.  Hubby says that's because my grandfather was Scottish. *shrugs*  I did buy toffee on our way out.  It was excellent stick-you-teeth-together yummy-ness.

Scottish Toffee

Next we went to the Philipinnes!  Other years we've entered this pavilion with unfortunate timing.....just when the entertainment was ending.  This time we waited around and took in some of the dancing and singing.  I love the filipino clothes.  They are colourful and often sparkly.  We looked at the handmade jewelry and I was tempted by the seller to purchase a sparkly beaded bracelet.....but I didn't.  At this pavilion we decided to eat.  We shared a "combo #2" plate with an extra pork bbq skewer for $13.50.  Included was Sinangag [fried rice], Pansit Bihon [noodles], Adobo chicken & Inihaw [the bbq'd pork skewers].  The one plate was plenty to serve the two of us.  If you wanted dessert they offered avocado ice cream which sounded interesting.

Apologies for the blurry pic, but these people were dancing quickly!

Then we cruised on to the Carribean.  You could smell the jerk chicken and they were encouraging people to walk up to the Tiki Hut.  On stage was a flame eater!  I've seen this man on stage before.  He wields two sticks which are on fire and goes through several positions or dance moves and eventually eats the fire at the end of them.  It's incredible.

People have not believed me before when I've run into certain characters [There's a Batman story for another time]......so when we saw Captain Jack Sparrow hanging out I knew I needed proof!

Myself and Captain Jack Sparrow

Saskatoon Adventures

Butterhorns - Traeger's Bakery Miller Avenue Saskatoon

On Tuesday, Hubby [who has taken the week off work] and I stopped in at our favourite butcher shop, Prairie Meats, to buy something for supper.  I wandered next door into Traeger's Bakery.  They had Butterhorns.  I purchased 2 for dessert.  I have no idea what we bought for supper.  Anyhow, I have been looking high and low in this city for a bakery that has cannoli.  Apparently, there aren't any Italian people in this city to make it.  *shrugs*  It turns out Traeger's used to make and sell cannoli.  They'd order the shells and then fill them in store.  Well the shells started arriving all broken so they said "enough of that." and started making them out of pastry dough instead.  The verdict?  They were really yummy.....but not cannoli.

Yesterday, we ventured all the way over to the south side and into Homesense.  I purchased a new kitchen clock.  The previous clock has become gummed up with grease and after trying to clean it.....and sticking to it.....and trying to make it pass off as clean I gave up.  The hands are a knife and fork and the pendulum is a spoon!  I <3 it. 

Last week, I did surgery on the lazy susan cabinet.  Rather, I performed an amputation by totally removing the lazy susan.  She was so lazy she collapsed from the weight of holding up "stuff" and I suppose if my job since 1974 was to hold stuff up I'd probably drop from exhaustion too.  So, today Hubby and I visited some kitchen cabinet stores....Superior Cabinets, Kitchen Craft, & Tait.  The best service by far was at Superior while we found the right wood style for us at Tait BUT after scanning through the Superior pamphlets they too had that same wood.  It's actually a laminate or vaneer called Zebrano.  The one we liked had a grey stain to it.  I can picture the lower cabinets in this while the upper cabinets can be white.  We even found a great countertop to go with our ideas.  

We are sort of dreaming here.  I don't necessarily think we can afford to do kitchen reno's right away.  We have other pressing expenses such as replacing the aluminum sliding windows...also circa 1974.  But it was fun to see what was available and find all kinds of drawer inserts and cabinet options.

This evening we took a drive to the University of Saskatchewan.  We like a trail that starts near where former Prime Minister Diefenbaker and his wife are laid to rest.  In fact, it's right behind the Diefenbaker Centre.  We took Brandy~puppy along for the ride.  She was super excited and barked a lot at people jogging and walking and such.

Brandy on the look-out for joggers.

Our city is so pretty.  My photo's don't really do it justice.  Saskatoon is built around the South Saskatchewan River and from this vantage point you can see all of the downtown skyline.  I can't imagine living anywhere else.

Up!  UP! ....and Away!!