{"version":"https://jsonfeed.org/version/1","title":"Micro.blog - Steve Smith","home_page_url":"https://micro.blog","feed_url":"https://micro.blog/posts/Stevsmit","_microblog":{"about":"https://micro.blog/about/api","id":"32149","username":"Stevsmit","bio":"Retired elementary school Principal living in Meaford, Ontario, Canada. Almost finished building a rammed earth house. Maple syrup aficionado, woodworker, traveller and student of cyber security. ","pronouns":"","is_following":false,"is_you":false,"following_count":2,"discover_count":0},"author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/avatar.jpg"},"items":[{"id":"14269716","content_html":"

In a repeat of yesterday and the day before, we cleared snow today. This is the most we have every received in a first-of-season dumping. It’s pretty much stopped now but high winds tomorrow will whip it around making for a miserable day ahead.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/11/20/in-a-repeat.html","date_published":"2022-11-21T00:11:58+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-11-21 00:11","date_timestamp":1668989518,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"14269779","content_html":"

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I decided to leave the snow on our sales pavillion for the photo.

\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/11/14/i-decided-to.html","date_published":"2022-11-14T21:21:56+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-11-14 21:21","date_timestamp":1668460916,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13497814","content_html":"

History of Meaford Maples : stevsmit.micro.blog

","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/10/12/history-of-meaford.html","date_published":"2022-10-12T23:16:33+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-10-12 23:16","date_timestamp":1665616593,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":true,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13368092","content_html":"

@odd Sadder still, he also shared that his dog had been poisoned by someone.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/13368092","date_published":"2022-09-10T04:04:43+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-10 04:04","date_timestamp":1662782683,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"13366718","content_html":"

Inspiration: we met this unidentified gentleman twice on our Lake Louise hike. The first was near the start and then 4.5 hours/~5km along. He is missing part of one leg and sometimes crawled his way up. He declined our help and shared photos of his dog in whose memory he hiked.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/inspiration-we-met.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T18:44:58+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 18:44","date_timestamp":1662749098,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366699","content_html":"

We bought some bear spray in Banff before heading onto the trails. It was reassuring to have but fortunately, we didn’t need to use it. Since airlines don’t allow it on board, we took it to the Parks Canada office in Banff and donated it to their people to use in the back country

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/we-bought-some.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T18:35:44+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 18:35","date_timestamp":1662748544,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366684","content_html":"

Two more Sno Coaches make their way down the moraine and onto the ice. Notice the angle of the second coach as it descends the steepest part. An accidental roll-over two years ago caused the operators to step up their safety game and we were sure to wear seat belts.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/two-more-sno.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T18:32:06+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 18:32","date_timestamp":1662748326,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366638","content_html":"

The view out the front window of our Sno Coach as we ascended the lateral moraine. The road appeared to go straight up which is what it pretty much did! The coaches have very low gearing and very powerful engines.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/the-view-out.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T18:17:01+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 18:17","date_timestamp":1662747421,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366632","content_html":"

Our early morning trek onto the Athabasca Glacier gave us an opportunity to feel its vastness. It was a bumpy ride on the Sno Coach and the parking lot was scraped smooth for us but it was awe-inspiring.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/our-early-morning.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T18:15:42+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 18:15","date_timestamp":1662747342,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366610","content_html":"

I have never found an ideal way to portray the vastness of mountains. This photo is of the Columbia Icefields and surrounding valley. In the centre of the photo is a large front end loader that appears as but a tiny dot.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/i-have-never.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T18:10:58+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 18:10","date_timestamp":1662747058,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366552","content_html":"

We visited a few canyons to see how meltwater had shaped the landscape. I neglected to record the location of this photo but it does nicely show how water can sculpt rock if given enough time and force.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/we-visited-a.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T17:54:14+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 17:54","date_timestamp":1662746054,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366546","content_html":"

Peyto Lake, Banff National Park: another stop on the Icefields Parkway. The parking lot was constantly full, the trail was busy, very steep but also paved and there was a crowd at the viewing point. However, everyone was polite and took turns. Very international demographics.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/peyto-lake-banff.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T17:49:51+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 17:49","date_timestamp":1662745791,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366491","content_html":"

We were at first perplexed as to why anyone would carry scads of rope on the Lake Louise trail. However, we found a perfect climbing wall for those so inclined. Karen’s finger shows an anchor used along a ledge we crossed. We assume it holds a cable to clutch when the path is icy

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","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/we-were-at.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T17:38:28+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 17:38","date_timestamp":1662745108,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366472","content_html":"

Some people chose to ride horses on the same trail we hiked. Not my cup of tea but it worked for them. We even managed to avoid all the patties they left.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/some-people-chose.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T17:28:46+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 17:28","date_timestamp":1662744526,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366463","content_html":"

Photos of Lake Louise without showing the crowds. Our early arrival let us see the sunrise over a mountain and a long hike gave us spectacular views of the blue water (coloured by suspended rock dust from the glacial meltwater feeding the lake).

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/photos-of-lake.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T17:27:02+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 17:27","date_timestamp":1662744422,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366454","content_html":"

Lake Louise is gorgeous as long as you can overlook the crowd! By 9 AM, the parking lots were full when we arrived by shuttle and the wooden deck overlooking the lake was crawling with selfie sticks.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/lake-louise-is.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T17:21:20+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 17:21","date_timestamp":1662744080,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366410","content_html":"

Spiral Tunnels at Kicking Horse Pass from Hwy 1, East of Field BC. These photos are my best effort to illustrate the view of one of the two tunnels. 1: train enters tunnel; 2: train exits mountain after circling 270 degrees; 3: same train passes below us after another 180 turn.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/spiral-tunnels-at.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T17:01:18+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 17:01","date_timestamp":1662742878,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366368","content_html":"

Several highways in Banff, Jasper, Yoho and Kootenay National Parks have wildlife overpasses and underpasses to allow for safe crossings. They are of course, a large expense but help demonstrate Canada’s commitment to enviornmental protection. For more, see Canadian Geographic.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/several-highways-in.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T16:46:06+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 16:46","date_timestamp":1662741966,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13366331","content_html":"

The TransCanada highway is under construction East of Golden BC. I wanted to see it first hand so we made a quick round trip. The large cranes are suspended over nothing. At another similar project, the operators did not wear seatbelts so they could jump free!. Yikes.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/09/the-transcanada-highway.html","date_published":"2022-09-09T16:31:51+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-09 16:31","date_timestamp":1662741111,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13346029","content_html":"

Wildfire smoke blew in yesterday and got worse as we drove west on the Transcanada highway. At times, the mountains were almost invisible. If you look closely, you will see what we experienced.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/04/wildfire-smoke-blew.html","date_published":"2022-09-04T13:08:38+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-04 13:08","date_timestamp":1662296918,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13346012","content_html":"

Sure are different warning signs on the highways in Alberta/BC compared with Ontario!

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/04/sure-are-different.html","date_published":"2022-09-04T13:05:49+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-04 13:05","date_timestamp":1662296749,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13335067","content_html":"

There are two service levels on the Rocky Mountaineer: Silver Leaf (single story, panoramic view) and Gold (2 stories, meals below, travel up top). 4 hosts per car plus 2 kitchen staff. We chose gold for the enhanced view. People came from around the world just for this trip!

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/01/there-are-two.html","date_published":"2022-09-01T14:07:36+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-01 14:07","date_timestamp":1662041256,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13335031","content_html":"

@jean thanks for highlighting my Rocky Mountaineer photos. It was a two-day trip and I was posting them for my family. Given your comment about sharing, I’ll post more and add details. I’ll also post photos as we explore more of the Rocky Mountains in the next week. Steve

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/13335031","date_published":"2022-09-01T13:51:29+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-01 13:51","date_timestamp":1662040289,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"13333544","content_html":"

A laid back, sunny day in Banff and a chance for an easy ride on rented ebikes. A nice trail led is to Vermilion Lakes and a great view of Mount Rundle.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/01/a-laid-back.html","date_published":"2022-09-01T04:20:03+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-01 04:20","date_timestamp":1662006003,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13333529","content_html":"

Enjoying the view from the open air platform. Masks still mandatory on Canadian trains!

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/01/enjoying-the-view.html","date_published":"2022-09-01T04:15:58+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-01 04:15","date_timestamp":1662005758,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13333530","content_html":"

Abandoned Masonry Bridge : stevsmit.micro.blog

","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/01/abandoned-masonry-bridge.html","date_published":"2022-09-01T04:13:54+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-01 04:13","date_timestamp":1662005634,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":true,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"13333511","content_html":"

Construction on the Trans Canada Highway in BC near the Alberta border is proceeding as they widen the last section to four lanes. We got a very brief glimpse from below of some of the work. For more photos, see Kicking Horse Canyon.

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\n","summary":"","url":"https://stevsmit.micro.blog/2022/09/01/construction-on-the.html","date_published":"2022-09-01T04:02:40+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2022-09-01 04:02","date_timestamp":1662004960,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":false,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":false,"note":"","syndication":[]}},{"id":"12137991","content_html":"

@Miraz Thanks for the question about the fungus as it prompted me to try to identify it: Bearded Tooth or Lions Mane. We are going hiking again shortly so maybe we will find more varieties. This is the time of year when they really show up here.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/12137991","date_published":"2021-11-07T14:04:26+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-11-07 14:04","date_timestamp":1636293866,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"12038300","content_html":"

@rom thanks. I didn’t realize the leaves were edible. We will have to try them as you suggested.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/12038300","date_published":"2021-10-10T20:07:12+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-10-10 20:07","date_timestamp":1633896432,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11984155","content_html":"

@odd Yes, but a rather large egg. It was about 12 cm across!

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11984155","date_published":"2021-09-26T02:16:36+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-09-26 02:16","date_timestamp":1632622596,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11930202","content_html":"

@Stevsmit thanks to @miraz and @peroty and the suggestion to use Merlin, I now know this is a Boreal Chickadee. Thanks for the tip.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11930202","date_published":"2021-09-12T11:49:01+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-09-12 11:49","date_timestamp":1631447341,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11928488","content_html":"

@hawaiiboy Interesting comments. Thanks.
\nYesterday afternoon, as the hurricane passed a few hundred km east of us, the temperature around us quickly went up several degrees. All I can figure is that the wind that was blowing was moving so quickly that it had come directly from the warm Caribbean waters and had not had time to be cooled by the northern Atlantic water. It was something to go from sweaters and long pants to being warm in shorts and a t-shirt in two hours!

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@Miraz thanks. I’ll give that a try. It’s frustrating seeing so many different bird types with no idea what they are. Your recent bird pictures were lovely. Thanks so much for sharing.

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@Miraz Ondeed it is. So much of this area reminds us of our time in NZ. However, the valleys here are wider and the slopes usually more gentle. The Appalachian Mountains are also much more rounded than the jagged Southern Alps. Of course we are just happy to be travelling again.

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@hawaiiboy one of three Canadian coasts! One day, we will get to the Arctic.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11905213","date_published":"2021-09-06T00:17:40+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-09-06 00:17","date_timestamp":1630887460,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11654564","content_html":"

@spgreenhalgh thanks. I speak some French so I’ll check it out. It would be good practice for me as well as potentially informative.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11654564","date_published":"2021-07-04T11:38:35+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-07-04 11:38","date_timestamp":1625398715,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11647608","content_html":"

@spgreenhalgh I’d love to read your source of news from Switzerland (assuming it’s in English). Please share it.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11647608","date_published":"2021-07-02T15:17:58+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-07-02 15:17","date_timestamp":1625239078,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11617880","content_html":"

@gregmoore my mother had a Nash like that (but probably a different colour) when we were kids. Somehow, she occasionally fit all five of us into it with her when we went for groceries! Thanks for the memory.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11617880","date_published":"2021-06-24T21:39:06+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-06-24 21:39","date_timestamp":1624570746,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11570562","content_html":"

@bitdepth pizza looks good. Do you cook the eggs somehow before putting them onto the crust?

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11570562","date_published":"2021-06-13T00:37:43+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-06-13 00:37","date_timestamp":1623544663,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11509223","content_html":"

@jean I love riding bicycles. I’ve ridden half-way across Canada and have a burning desire to complete the journey. We’ve also ridden through tapioca and rubber plantations in Vietnam, among the tortugas in Galápagos and through abandoned railway tunnels in PA and WI. My favourite rides though are in the Canadian province of Quebec where cars even stop for cyclists!

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11509223","date_published":"2021-05-28T19:34:13+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-05-28 19:34","date_timestamp":1622230453,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11336455","content_html":"

@dejus thank you. Great entertainment while I had a socially distanced lunch with my brother.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11336455","date_published":"2021-04-18T01:57:33+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-04-18 01:57","date_timestamp":1618711053,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11336454","content_html":"

@annahavron my pleasure. We consider ourselves very fortunate to have the birds here.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11336454","date_published":"2021-04-18T01:56:54+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-04-18 01:56","date_timestamp":1618711014,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11187651","content_html":"

@BazzaBlog that’s such a beautiful area. I long to go back again soon.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11187651","date_published":"2021-03-18T21:44:14+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-03-18 21:44","date_timestamp":1616103854,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11141243","content_html":"

@Alligator it’s a lot of work but sweet reward for your efforts. Is your season finished? Ours is just beginning.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11141243","date_published":"2021-03-10T02:38:04+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-03-10 02:38","date_timestamp":1615343884,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11109048","content_html":"

@Shakira Funny how life changes. We are in the same boat. Between us, Karen and I have consumed about 70 pounds of flour. I doubt we will ever go back to store bought bread or buns unless we are travelling.

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@odd I hope you enjoy it when you try it. We love it.

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@odd I’m curious how much the syrup might cost you and where it is from. When you do purchase it, I’d love to learn. A photo would be appreciated too. We’ve seen it for sale in Vietnam and China at reasonable prices considering how far it has travelled. We did send some to those countries as part of a business visit but it was very expensive to ship.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11108257","date_published":"2021-03-03T22:08:34+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-03-03 22:08","date_timestamp":1614809314,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11100557","content_html":"

@Atomicgirl Thanks for the compliment. Have fun making maple syrup. At 40:1, you start off thinking you will get lots of syrup but after hours of work, end up with a small fraction. However, it’s delicious and worth every effort.

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11100557","date_published":"2021-03-02T13:15:27+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-03-02 13:15","date_timestamp":1614690927,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}},{"id":"11091299","content_html":"

@garethjones thank you for sharing your thoughts. Over the past few weeks, I too have been grappling with blogging vs website development. My current goal is to find the best way to market my maple syrup business - website or just an ongoing blog telling their story of the process of making syrup with a link to a sales page. I love blogging and generally write something brief about what I’ve been doing each day. I usually accompany my posts with a photo (I take a lot throughout the day - helps me remember what I did!). The ephemeral aspect of microblogs bothers me somewhat. I think the reader needs to be able to find what they are interested in rather than having to go back in time to the “bottom of the stack”. I guess I need to categorize my posts but then that takes away some of the spontaneity of my writing.

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@cn well put!

\n","url":"https://micro.blog/Stevsmit/11049411","date_published":"2021-02-21T01:25:05+00:00","author":{"name":"Steve Smith","url":"http://Stevsmit.micro.blog/","avatar":"https://cdn.micro.blog/photos/96/https%3A%2F%2Fmicro.blog%2FStevsmit%2Favatar.jpg","_microblog":{"username":"Stevsmit"}},"_microblog":{"date_relative":"2021-02-21 01:25","date_timestamp":1613870705,"is_favorite":false,"is_bookmark":false,"is_deletable":false,"is_conversation":true,"is_linkpost":false,"is_mention":true}}]}