April 9, 2012:   Ontario, Canada is the
'land of a million lakes'.

Many northern ones are inaccessible by trail,
water or air. Hiking with compass and topo
map is the only way in. Our 'favourite' of
these lakes would take us all day to
get there and set up camp.

Upon arrival, it was customary to say 'hello'
to the resident loon family (Paul and I each
have our unique way of creating the different
loon calls). They'd always respond, and swim
by to show off their brood.

One year, in our travels, we came across this
spectacular clay loon whistle, handmade by
ceramic sculptor, Reed Weir of Newfoundland
(who is primarily known for her sculptures).

Her whistle's melodic loon call is almost as
mesmerizing as the real thing. Living in the
desert now, without a family of loons nearby,
this treasure brings many joy-filled moments
as we playfully call to each other from one
end of the house, to the other.