Friday, March 14, 2025

The Photographer's Eye: Capturing the Extraordinary in the Ordinary


Photographers possess a unique ability to see the world through a different lens—both literally and figuratively. They capture fleeting moments, subtle details, and striking compositions that others often overlook. By being present and fully aware of their surroundings, photographers can identify the beauty in ordinary scenes and the emotion in a single glance. This heightened perception allows them to frame light, shadows, and textures in compelling ways, telling stories without words. Through patience and observation, they transform the mundane into the extraordinary, inspiring others to see the world with fresh eyes and deeper appreciation.


"I really believe there are things nobody would see if I didn't photograph them."

- Diane Arbus 


I shot this scruffy, peeling wall inside Balzac's coffeehouse in the Distillery District, Toronto, ON. As I looked around to find a seat I noticed this sensational collection of texture, colour and quirkiness. 


COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

Thursday, March 13, 2025

Great Lakes Abstract Fine Art Prints by Canadian Artist Patti Friday


NEW abstract fine art prints
Order here

Capturing the essence of life, documenting as I go; the quiet beautiful moments or hurried, cinematic scenes of the 'everyday'. Often poetic, sometimes irreverent. I am endlessly inspired by fond memories, lakeside summers, cozy winters, and daydreaming ideas. I play with many mediums and subject matters.

Although I personally live a casual, laid-back lifestyle, I am a Fine Artist who creates modern, ORIGINAL works that add beauty and style to any space. Be it minimalist, eclectic, country or traditional.

I love fresh, quirky, graphic imagery mixed with colourful, folkloric elements, symbolic layers + typography. I digitally blend some of my collected images with my own photography + paintings. They are modern and decorative; perfect for today's contemporary interiors.

Thank You for decorating your spaces with my art
Peace Love Create Art, 
Patti



COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

Friday, March 7, 2025

Who is Mark Carney?


Mark Carney is a Canadian economist, banker, and climate finance advocate. He is best known for serving as the Governor of the Bank of Canada (2008–2013) and the Governor of the Bank of England (2013–2020)—making him the first non-British citizen to lead the UK’s central bank. Carney played a key role in stabilizing the global economy during the 2008 financial crisis and later focused on climate finance and sustainable investment.

Early Life & Education

  • Born on March 16, 1965, in Fort Smith, Northwest Territories, Canada.
  • Earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Harvard University (1988).
  • Completed a Master’s and Ph.D. in Economics at the University of Oxford (Nuffield College).

Career Highlights

1. Investment Banking (Goldman Sachs, 1990–2003)

  • Spent over a decade at Goldman Sachs, working in London, Tokyo, and New York.
  • Specialized in sovereign risk, emerging markets, and energy sectors.
  • Helped Russia restructure its debt after its 1998 financial crisis.

2. Deputy Governor & Governor of the Bank of Canada (2003–2013)

  • Joined the Bank of Canada in 2003 as Deputy Governor, later becoming Governor in 2008.
  • Led Canada through the 2008 financial crisis—Canada was the only G7 country to avoid a major bank bailout.
  • Kept interest rates low and emphasized the importance of a strong banking system.

3. Governor of the Bank of England (2013–2020)

  • Became the first non-British citizen to hold the position.
  • Navigated the UK’s economy through Brexit uncertainty.
  • Advocated for climate risk disclosure and green finance.
  • Launched the "Future of Finance" report, focusing on fintech, digital currencies, and financial inclusion.

4. Climate Finance & UN Special Envoy (2020–Present)

  • Became the UN Special Envoy on Climate Action and Finance in 2020.
  • Key figure in the COP26 climate summit, pushing for net-zero finance.
  • Helped launch the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ)—a $130 trillion pledge from financial institutions to fight climate change.

5. Corporate & Advisory Roles

  • Vice Chairman at Brookfield Asset Management, leading its climate-focused investment strategy.
  • Serves on boards and panels advising on sustainable finance.

Books & Thought Leadership

  • "Value(s): Building a Better World for All" (2021) – Discusses how financial systems can prioritize human values like fairness, sustainability, and resilience.

Legacy & Influence

  • Respected as a crisis manager—his leadership during the financial crisis and Brexit helped stabilize economies.
  • Climate finance pioneer—pushing for banks and investors to shift towards sustainable, carbon-neutral investments.
  • Seen as a potential political leader—On January 16, 2025, Carney officially announced that he was running in the 2025 Liberal Party of Canada leadership election. Carney also announced that he stepped down from all executive, board and advisory positions that he was part of in order to focus on his leadership campaign. By February 9, his campaign had raised more than $1.9 million in donations from over 11,000 people and received endorsements from 66 Liberal caucus members. If elected, he would become the first Canadian prime minister to have never served in prior elected office.
Personal Life

Carney met his wife, Diana Fox, a British economist specializing in developing nations, while at the University of Oxford. She is active in various environmental and social justice causes. The couple married in July 1994 while he was finishing his doctoral thesis. They have four children and lived in Toronto before moving to the Rockcliffe Park neighbourhood of Ottawa and then moving to London in 2013. They moved back to Ottawa when Carney left his role at the Bank of England in 2020. He is the godfather of Chrystia Freeland's son. She is running against him in the 2025 Liberal Party leadership election.

Carney speaks French in a passable manner. Carney is an Irish and British citizen in addition to holding Canadian citizenship. He has distant relatives in Liverpool and is a supporter of the city's Everton F.C. He is also a supporter of the Edmonton Oilers and the Edmonton Elks. Carney completed the 2015 London Marathon in 03:45:22, which was 17 minutes faster than his time at the 2011 Ottawa Marathon. Carney was a Goalie when he played hockey.

Carney is a practising Catholic. In 2015, he was named as the most influential Catholic in Britain by The Tablet.



COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

The Role of a Photographer in Book Publishing




Photographers play a crucial role in book publishing, providing compelling imagery that enhances storytelling and creates visually engaging books across various genres. Their work is especially important in books that rely heavily on visuals, such as cookbooks, interior design books, home and gardening guides, and travel books.

Key Responsibilities of a Photographer in Book Publishing

  1. Concept Development & Planning

    • Photographers collaborate with authors, editors, and designers to understand the book’s theme, message, and visual requirements.
    • They help determine how images will enhance the text, whether through artistic interpretations, lifestyle photography, or detailed step-by-step visuals.
  2. Image Creation

    • Depending on the book, photographers may capture original images or source existing photographs from their archives.
    • For interior design and home books, this may involve shooting styled spaces, while travel books often require on-location photography that captures culture and landscapes.
  3. Book Cover Photography

    • A striking cover image is essential for attracting readers. Photographers may shoot custom images for a book cover or collaborate with designers to create a compelling visual that represents the book’s content.
  4. Editorial & Lifestyle Photography

    • In books related to travel, home decor, and gardening, photographers capture real-world spaces, places, and experiences.
    • Cookbooks require expertly styled food photography to showcase recipes in an appetizing and engaging way.
  5. Styling & Composition

    • Interior design books require thoughtful composition to highlight textures, lighting, and the ambiance of a space.
    • Food photographers often work with stylists to perfect the appearance of dishes for cookbooks.
    • Home and gardening books may require carefully staged setups to illustrate projects or highlight seasonal elements.
  6. Post-Production & Editing

    • Photographers ensure images are high-quality, color-corrected, and formatted to meet publishing standards.
    • They may work with retouchers or handle their own editing to align with the book’s visual tone.
  7. Licensing & Copyright Management

    • Photographers negotiate licensing agreements with publishers regarding how their images will be used.
    • They may sell images outright, provide them under a rights-managed model, or license them for specific editions or print runs.
  8. Collaboration with Designers & Publishers

    • Photographers work with book designers to ensure images are placed effectively and enhance the overall layout.
    • They liaise with publishers regarding technical specifications such as image resolution, printing formats, and color calibration.
  9. Marketing & Promotion

    • Some photographers are involved in book promotion, providing behind-the-scenes images for marketing campaigns, book launch events, and social media content.
    • Photographers with a strong personal brand may help market books by leveraging their own platforms.

Types of Books that Heavily Rely on Photography

  • Cookbooks – High-quality food photography is essential for making recipes visually appealing.
  • Interior Design Books – Professional imagery showcases styled spaces, color schemes, and home transformations.
  • Home & Gardening Books – Beautiful visuals help illustrate DIY projects, plant care, and seasonal inspirations.
  • Travel Books – Photography immerses readers in different cultures, destinations, and landscapes.
  • Coffee Table Books – These visually driven books highlight everything from art and fashion to nature and architecture.

Final Thoughts

A photographer in book publishing is more than just an image creator—they are a visual storyteller who enhances the reader’s experience through powerful, well-composed images. Whether through lifestyle, documentary, or artistic photography, they help shape how stories and information are visually communicated in books.



COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

Patti Friday, Editor of 'Embassy of Ideas' is a Canadian Photographer, Writer, Editorial Producer and Award-Winning Blogger. Patti creates visual stories about lifestyle, still life, interiors, food & travel and arts & culture for traditional and online media. She has authored 7 books and openly admits to having a wild love affair with cake. (Several sources confirm that this affair continues today.)

Sunday, March 2, 2025

Gluten-Free Mediterranean Diet


Gluten-Free Mediterranean Diet

The Gluten-Free Mediterranean Diet combines the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet with a strict avoidance of gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, and rye. This diet is perfect for those with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or anyone looking to reduce inflammation and improve gut health while still enjoying the nutrient-dense and flavorful Mediterranean way of eating.

Key Benefits

✅ Anti-inflammatory & Gut-friendly – Eliminates gluten while focusing on whole, fresh foods
✅ Heart-Healthy – Rich in omega-3s from fish, olive oil, and nuts
✅ Nutrient-Dense – Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber from fresh produce
✅ Supports Weight Management – Low in processed foods and refined sugars



Foods to Eat

Healthy Fats & Oils

  • Extra virgin olive oil (main source of fat)
  • Avocados
  • Olives
  • Nuts & seeds (almonds, walnuts, pistachios, chia, flax)

Proteins

  • Fish & seafood (salmon, sardines, mackerel, shrimp)
  • Lean meats (chicken, turkey, grass-fed beef)
  • Eggs
  • Dairy (Greek yogurt, feta, halloumi, goat cheese – if tolerated)
  • Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, beans – in moderation)

Vegetables

  • Leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula)
  • Tomatoes
  • Zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers
  • Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts
  • Cucumbers, carrots, asparagus

Fruits (Moderate Amounts)

  • Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Citrus (oranges, lemons, limes)
  • Pomegranates, figs, grapes

Gluten-Free Whole Grains

  • Quinoa
  • Brown rice
  • Millet
  • Buckwheat
  • Polenta (cornmeal)

Gluten-Free Bread & Pasta Alternatives

  • Almond flour or coconut flour bread
  • Chickpea or lentil pasta
  • Zucchini noodles (zoodles)
  • Cauliflower rice



Foods to Avoid

Gluten-Containing Grains & Products

  • Wheat (bread, pasta, pizza dough)
  • Barley, rye, bulgur, couscous
  • Regular flour tortillas, crackers, cereal

Processed & Packaged Foods

  • Many sauces, dressings, and soups (check for hidden gluten)
  • Breaded or fried foods (often contain wheat flour)
  • Imitation seafood and processed meats

Sugary & Refined Foods

  • Sweets, pastries, and commercial baked goods
  • Soda and fruit juices with added sugar

Unhealthy Oils

  • Processed vegetable oils (soybean, corn, canola)




Gluten-Free Mediterranean Diet Grocery List

Healthy Fats & Oils

  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Avocados
  • Olives (green, black, Kalamata)
  • Nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachios, macadamia)
  • Seeds (chia, flax, sunflower, pumpkin)
  • Tahini (sesame seed paste)

Protein (Seafood & Meat)

  • Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna)
  • Shellfish (shrimp, mussels, clams, scallops)
  • Poultry (chicken, turkey, duck)
  • Grass-fed beef & lamb (in moderation)
  • Eggs (pasture-raised if possible)
  • Dairy (Greek yogurt, feta, Parmesan, goat cheese)
  • Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, black beans—if tolerated)

Vegetables

  • Leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula, romaine)
  • Cruciferous veggies (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts)
  • Zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers
  • Cucumber, celery, carrots
  • Tomatoes
  • Mushrooms
  • Fresh herbs (basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, parsley)

Fruits (In Moderation)

  • Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Citrus (oranges, lemons, limes)
  • Pomegranates, figs, grapes
  • Melons (cantaloupe, watermelon)

Gluten-Free Whole Grains & Alternatives

  • Quinoa
  • Brown rice
  • Millet
  • Buckwheat
  • Polenta (cornmeal)
  • Gluten-free oats (if tolerated)

Gluten-Free Bread & Pasta Alternatives

  • Almond or coconut flour bread
  • Chickpea or lentil pasta
  • Zucchini noodles (zoodles)
  • Cauliflower rice

Pantry Essentials

  • Hummus
  • Vinegar (balsamic, red wine, apple cider)
  • Dark chocolate (85% or higher)
  • Coconut milk (unsweetened)
  • Bone broth
  • Coffee & herbal teas


Foods to Eat

  • Healthy fats: Olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds
  • Protein: Fish, poultry, eggs, Greek yogurt, legumes (if tolerated)
  • Vegetables: Leafy greens, cruciferous veggies, zucchini, bell peppers
  • Fruits (in moderation): Berries, citrus, figs, pomegranate
  • Gluten-free grains: Quinoa, millet, brown rice
  • Herbs & spices: Garlic, basil, oregano, turmeric, cinnamon


Foods to Avoid

🚫 Gluten-Containing Grains & Products

  • Wheat (bread, pasta, pizza dough)
  • Barley, rye, bulgur, couscous
  • Regular flour tortillas, crackers, cereals

🚫 Processed & Packaged Foods

  • Many sauces, dressings, and soups (check for hidden gluten)
  • Breaded or fried foods (often contain wheat flour)
  • Imitation seafood and processed meats

🚫 Sugary & Refined Foods

  • Cakes, cookies, and pastries made with wheat
  • Sugary drinks (soda, fruit juices with added sugar)

🚫 Unhealthy Oils

  • Processed vegetable oils (soybean, corn, canola)

Have high cholesterol? It's best to focus on heart-healthy foods while avoiding those that may raise LDL (bad) cholesterol. Here's how to adjust your Gluten-Free Mediterranean Diet:

Foods to Remove or Limit for High Cholesterol

  1. Full-fat dairy – Replace with low-fat Greek yogurt and cheese in moderation
  2. Red meat (beef, lamb, duck) – Limit intake, choose lean poultry or fish instead
  3. Egg yolks – Eat egg whites more often, limit whole eggs to a few per week
  4. Coconut milk – High in saturated fat; opt for almond or oat milk instead
  5. Processed meats (sausage, bacon, deli meats) – Even if gluten-free, they can raise cholesterol
  6. Butter & ghee – Stick to olive oil as your main fat source

Heart-Healthy Additions

✔ Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel) – Rich in omega-3s to lower bad cholesterol
✔ Oats (certified gluten-free) – Helps reduce LDL cholesterol
✔ More fiber – Add lentils, beans, and extra vegetables to help lower cholesterol
✔ Avocados & nuts – Healthy fats that improve cholesterol balance



COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

Saturday, March 1, 2025

10 Elements of Mediterranean Lifestyle Interior Design and Decor





Creating a mood board for a Mediterranean Vibe?

Mediterranean lifestyle interior design and decor typically include the following elements:



  1. Natural Materials: Heavy use of natural materials like wood, stone (especially marble), and terracotta for flooring and accents.

  2. Color Palette: Warm, earthy tones dominate, including shades of terracotta, ochre, deep blues, and greens inspired by the sea and landscapes.

  3. Textures: Incorporation of textured elements such as rough plaster walls, rustic wooden beams, and handmade tiles.

  4. Furniture: Heavy, sturdy furniture pieces often made of dark wood, wrought iron, or rattan, featuring ornate detailing and carvings.

  5. Fabrics: Linen, cotton, and other natural fibers in rich, vibrant colors or patterns like stripes or florals for upholstery and curtains.

  6. Lighting: Soft, ambient lighting using wrought iron or brass fixtures with intricate designs, complemented by candles or lanterns for a cozy atmosphere.

  7. Accents and Decor: Mediterranean ceramics, pottery, and mosaic tiles; decorative elements like large urns, woven baskets, and vibrant rugs or tapestries.

  8. Plants: Lush greenery such as olive trees, palms, and aromatic herbs like lavender or rosemary, bringing a touch of nature indoors.

  9. Open Spaces: Emphasis on open floor plans and large windows or doors to blend indoor and outdoor living spaces, maximizing natural light and airflow.

  10. Art and Accessories: Artwork depicting coastal scenes, Mediterranean landscapes, or abstract pieces inspired by nature; decorative accessories like mirrors with intricate frames, antique clocks, or wall-mounted ceramics.











These elements collectively create a relaxed, inviting ambiance that reflects the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle.










COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Lowering Cholesterol Levels: Foods High in Soluable Fiber and Why We Need to Eat Them



Foods high in soluble fiber include:

  1. Oats and oat bran
  2. Barley
  3. Lentils and beans (like black beans, kidney beans)
  4. Apples
  5. Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits)
  6. Strawberries
  7. Carrots
  8. Brussels sprouts
  9. Flaxseeds
  10. Chia seeds

These foods are great for digestive health and can help lower cholesterol levels. 



Eating foods high in soluble fiber has several health benefits, including:

1. Supports Heart Health

  • Lowers LDL ("bad") cholesterol by binding to cholesterol and removing it from the body.
  • Helps reduce the risk of heart disease.

2. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels

  • Slows down digestion and prevents blood sugar spikes, which is especially beneficial for people with diabetes.

3. Aids Digestion & Gut Health

  • Promotes a healthy gut microbiome by feeding beneficial gut bacteria.
  • Helps prevent constipation by softening stool.

4. Helps with Weight Management

  • Keeps you full for longer, reducing overall calorie intake.

5. Reduces Inflammation & Supports Immunity

  • Some soluble fibers (like those in oats and flaxseeds) help reduce inflammation, which is linked to many chronic diseases.



Here's a high-soluble fiber breakfast cookie recipe that's both delicious and nutritious!



High-Fiber Breakfast Cookies

(Makes about 12 cookies)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup rolled oats (soluble fiber)
  • ½ cup FiberWise All Purpose (see below)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon flaxseeds (ground for better absorption)
  • ½ cup mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce
  • ¼ cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts (optional, for crunch)
  • ¼ cup raisins or chopped dates (for natural sweetness)
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds
  • 1/4 cup craisins or raisins
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix oats, oat flour, chia seeds, flaxseeds, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder.
  3. In another bowl, combine mashed banana (or applesauce), peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in walnuts and raisins.
  5. Scoop dough onto the baking sheet (about 2 tablespoons per cookie). Flatten slightly.
  6. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown.
  7. Let cool before enjoying!

Why These Cookies?

Oats, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are loaded with soluble fiber to support digestion and heart health.
Naturally sweetened with fruit and a touch of honey.
Great for meal prep – make a batch and grab one for breakfast on the go!



COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

Monday, February 24, 2025

Key Aspects of Maira Kalman's Work



Maira Kalman is an Israeli-born American artist, illustrator, author, and designer known for her whimsical, witty, and deeply insightful visual storytelling. Her work spans children's books, editorial illustrations, museum exhibits, and collaborations with major publications like The New Yorker and The New York Times.



Key Aspects of Her Work

Illustration & Art

  • Known for her vibrant, slightly naïve style with hand-lettered text.
  • Often combines humor, personal narratives, and historical themes.
  • Her paintings are expressive, colorful, and filled with everyday observations.

Books & Writing

  • Children’s Books: Fireboat, 13 Words (with Lemony Snicket), Max the Dog series.
  • Illustrated Essays & Memoirs: The Principles of Uncertainty, And the Pursuit of Happiness, My Favorite Things.
  • Literary & Design Collaborations: Illustrated versions of The Elements of Style by Strunk & White and Beloved Dog.

Editorial Work & Collaborations

  • Created illustrated columns for The New York Times (The Principles of Uncertainty, And the Pursuit of Happiness).
  • Frequent contributor to The New Yorker with cover illustrations and visual essays.
  • Designed products for MoMA and other cultural institutions.

Museum & Design Work

  • Worked on museum exhibitions featuring objects that inspire her storytelling.
  • Designed sets and costumes for ballet and opera performances.

Style & Themes

  • Finds beauty and humor in everyday life.
  • Explores themes of history, identity, loss, and joy.
  • Often includes quirky characters, personal reflections, and found objects.


Kalman’s work is both playful and profound, celebrating the small moments that make life extraordinary. 

I've posted several times about Maira! Have a look here.


COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

Saturday, February 22, 2025

Spices for Potatoes - A Spice Affair, Made in Canada


Using different spices on potatoes can transform them from a humble side dish to a culinary masterpiece. The versatility of potatoes allows them to pair harmoniously with a wide range of spices, each offering its own unique flavor profile. With A Spice Affair, made in Canada, you can elevate your potato dishes with expertly blended seasonings that bring out rich, bold flavors. Whether you opt for the warmth of smoked paprika and cumin, the zing of garlic and herbs like rosemary and thyme, or the exotic notes of curry powder and turmeric, these high-quality spices make every bite a delight. From crispy roasted potatoes with a hint of chili powder to creamy mashed potatoes infused with nutmeg, experimenting with A Spice Affair ensures each dish is a flavorful sensation that excites the senses and satisfies the soul.














COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.
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