Turtle Pond - erings

Oh Victoria what a lady you were.

Today is Victoria Day here in the Great White.

Self portrait at sweet 16

Alexandrina Victoria

1835

b. May 24 1819

May 24 or May two four is the starting date for summer here. No one in their right mind starts their garden before the May two four.

It's also a traditional weekend for cottage owners to get the summer shack ready for the

season.

And for those not owning a cottage it's a great weekend for CAMPING.

Or spring cleaning.

or both.

Traditionally, in Canada, the Royal Union Flag is flown from sunrise to sunset on the last Monday before May 24th.

Another tradition is the 21 Gun Salute!

The 21 gun salute stems from the medieval custom of laying down of arms - lowering your sword etc. In the 1600s it was required of the defeated naval ships to empty their canons from there it turned into a formal act of respect.

In Canada the 21 gun salute is reserved for the queen, governor generals (did I mention I know our governor general personally - it's true you may fawn over me later) and national holidays like Victoria Day.

There is also a 17 gun salute and a 15 gun salute.. for other various dignitaries and occasions.

Mostly today we have fireworks. *sigh*

Sophie is NOT a fan of these. This blog is being written as we speak on my back patio in the dark with Sophie panting beside me eating marshmallows to assuage her panic stricken fears of the booms and cracks. Neither of us are fans of loud noises...

frankly it's the pits.

Queen Victoria, the grand daughter of the mad king.. the man who lost America.. signed Canada to self governance and gained a loyal nation who to this day celebrate her birthday.