October Halloween Puzzle: The World of Frankenstein by Adam Simpson

 The World of Frankenstein - jigsaw puzzle by Adam Simpson

🧩1000 pieces

A while back, Bill purchased this puzzle and thought it would be great for us to complete in October - in honour of Halloween.   It's a bit of a tradition now to do a Halloween-themed puzzle and either pass it along, or keep it to do for the next year.

This was a beautiful puzzle with vibrant colours, intricate design and artistry. No puzzle dust and all the pieces fit really well together. We really had no complaints, except for one (you'll know why in the next photo).

We finished 999 pieces out of 1000 of this puzzle! 😁

Ugh, definitely did not expect a missing piece, but I guess you could say Frankenstein shall remain unfinished. 🧐 

Despite the missing piece, I really love the art work and have my eye on The World of Dracula puzzle. 

Hopefully if you purchase one of these, you are able to fully complete it!  I never think about keeping receipts like this which was necessary if I wanted to contact customer service, but maybe something to do as this was such a lovely puzzle and it's sad to know 1 piece is missing like this! 

💜Puzzle Collection

2026 Halloween Tree

 Say hello to our 2026 Halloween Tree!

While getting ready to decorate our tree for Halloween, it looks like whatever water damage happened from one of the storms at some point trickled into the big bin where we stored all of our decor, lights, etc. Thus, we lost pretty much all of it that we usually put on the tree each year. Fred and Jean Claude (animatronics) are still in-tact. so we were happy about that. 

Life happens, so we just pivoted and figured out how to still make the tree reflect "us".  I think it looks great. 

Strolling Through Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is absolutely beautiful and to think we only got our feet wet in exploring just the shopping district. 

We walked around and popped our heads into all the little boutiques and artisan shops.  We had a late lunch at Corks Winebar and Eatery Great service and I had the most delicious butternut squash ravioli and Bill enjoyed an indulgent serving of manicotti with a thick slice of garlic bread. 

The landscaping all around is gorgeous as you can see from the photos and this time of year is particularly beautiful with all the leaves changing.

Before heading back to Windsor, we stopped in at a lovely local French-inspired cafe called Café Lumiere for a latte and a sweet pastry - a crumbly apple lemon bar. 

A little slice of heaven at Café Lumière

Niagara-on-the-Lake was a wonderful way to end our anniversary/mini-break - I am grateful for being able to come here with Bill. I am looking forward to another visit in the future together - especially as theatre lovers, the Shaw Festival is on our list.

Life slows down here and I'm all for being part of it.

💜Niagara-on-the-Lake

💜Café Lumière

💜Corks Restaurant

Niagara Falls: Clifton Hill District Adventures

Hi friends! We just got back from our much needed mini-break to Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake, so I will be sharing some of our adventures over the next few days, as I settle back into routine here.

panoramic shot of the falls.

It was very busy during the day near the falls but we took a nice walk through the gardens (Bill spotted this unique tree!) and also did a little bit of shopping and exploration in the area.  The mist over the falls was neat to look. The CN Tower looked beautiful at night as we were heading back to our hotel.

Now for Clifton Hill!

If you are heading to Niagara Falls and planning to visit the Clifton Hill district, I would suggest getting the Clifton Hill Fun Pass.  It's really the best deal to experience a lot of the attractions and save quite a bit of money instead of paying for each one.

Here are some highlights of what we did! 

👉Wizards' Golf (18 holes of mini glow golf with magical & whimsical themes!) It's a Glow-in-the-Dark Bill.  This was a lot of fun. Definitely a multi-sensory experience!

👉Toy Store 4D is a MUST if you enjoy immerse experiences. Just buckle up and enjoy the ride! Bill had a blast on this one. Since this is 4D, there was an option to have a non-motion seat. All I had to do was leave my buckle undone. I am glad that they offer this, so I could partake in the activity in some ways too, but honestly, I was having the most fun watching Bill bounce around in his seat!  

👉Ghostblasters Dark Ride This one is a seated ride to blast those ghosties! Lots of cool animatronic characters and props. Around every corner is something to destroy - so that was pretty satisfying, if I may say so.

👉Creepy Castle - Another adventure ride - blasting all the creepy ghouls. This one was also motion-seated. but nothing compared to Toy Store 4D. I just had to let the attendent know I would like a non-motion seat, so I basically had my laser and was in a computer chair lol  while Bill was in the motion-activated one. 

*Note that we didn't go on the Niagara SkyWheel (this was part of the Fun Pass 6 choices available), since I don't like heights. I told Bill he could go solo, but he didn't want to.  So no big deal, we gave a nice couple walking by our passes to enjoy!

Big Top Amazing Mirror & Laser Maze - Didn't go to this one but took a photo walking past!

👉Movieland Wax Museum - There was a spot where you could take a break and just watch a little mini history on classic film actors like Buster Keaton, Laurel and Hardy. Interesting factoid: Buster Keaton had broken just about every bone in his body!

A low-key activity to just check out all the famous folks from different eras. Honestly, some of the wax figures were terribly inaccurate, which made us chuckle, while others were spot, and of course a little in between too. These were some of the favourites going through the museum!

WSO Opening Weekend - From Paris to Madrid

Show time!

It was the opening weekend for the WSO - From Paris to Madrid (Germaine Tailleferre’s Petite Suite alongside Manuel de Falla’s vibrant Suite No. 1. Aaron Copland’s iconic Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra.)  here in Windsor Ontario at the Capitol Theatre Windsor 🎶

Bill surprised me with tickets and this would kick off the start of our little mini-break!

The performance was lovely. This was the first time seeing Cosette Justo Valdés as the conductor - she had a lot of energy on stage and engaged the audience with her story-telling.  There was also Graham Lord on clarinet. I felt out of breath just watching him play - such incredible talent brought to the stage.  

 

Taken as we settled into our seats

(no photos/video allowed during the performance)

💜WSO

💜Capitol Theatre

East Windsor Delight at Dads Deli

We were very excited to try Dads Deli (located at 6152 Tecumseh Road E) and welcome them to the East side of town. It was their first day grand opening so they were extremely busy. Bill and I were fortunate to get a little table to enjoy a lunch break together.

piled high corned beef sandwich/chili dog

Cute patio setup at Dads Deli

I was shocked at the amount of corned beef piled high on my sandwich! It was delicious on pillowy soft rye bread. It came with a crunchy pickle and tangy coleslaw - both very good.

Bill ordered a chili dog - this was WAY bigger than expected! He passed a few unexpected mushrooms onto me but he really enjoyed it overall.

If you've lived in Windsor for a while, you'll know that this is the old Greek Boy building. After they left, it was several other places - none seemed to last at all for various reasons. With the arrival of Dads Deli - which is a family-run business, if they keep up with the quality of food, portion size, plus the excellent service, I can see them thriving in this area.

Ice cream and an assortment of crepes

(haven't tried but a reason to go back!)

💜Dads Deli

18th Anniversary at Terra Cotta and Ciao Caffe

I cannot believe how fast time goes. We just celebrated 18 years together and 7 years of marriage!

Terra Cotta (318 Pelissier St) was the top choice, as we were both craving pizza.  It was also a bonus that they had their 2-for-1 pizza special happening.

We started with a delicious shared Nero Salad followed by a wood-fired thin-crusted La Blonda pizza. This has definitely been our go-to order.  Everything tasted so fresh and taste buds were tingling - in the best way possible!  

Nero Salad: Romaine lettuce, red onions, green peppers, roasted red peppers, black olives, capers, tomatoes, and walnuts, finished with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing

La Blonda Pizza: Pesto sauce, mozzarella, and feta cheese.Veggies & Toppings: Spanish onions, roasted yellow peppers, zucchini, artichokes, and chicken.

It was really busy there, but we managed to get a table for two in the front. Our server Patricia was fantastic! Very friendly, accommodating, and watching her juggle all the tables, she was a rockstar. 

To finish the evening, we went to Ciao Caffe (4974 Tecumseh Rd E), which is a great little spot we found near us that we've been going to for a while now.  The staff are lovely and their dessert selections are incredible. 

I had a nice lemon/ginger tea, Bill had his usual cafe latte, and we split a mouth-watering strawberry romanoff cake.

We're definitely of the mindset to find local businesses to support whenever possible - everything is fragile and so making that extra effort is meaningful and benefits our community - full circle. When we get great service and the food is awesome - I want to blog about it, in hopes that others experience the same too.

💜Terra Cotta

💜Ciao Caffe

Out of the Box: A Tribute to Houdini

Step "Out of the Box" and into "A Tribute to Houdini", an extraordinary tribute to the legendary magician, Harry Houdini.

Experience the magic firsthand as illusionist extraordinaire, Bill Nuvo, takes center stage to weave a spellbinding tapestry of mystery and intrigue. With his uncanny skills and mind-bending illusions, Nuvo will leave you on the edge of your seat, questioning reality itself.

Special guest opening acts!

Enchanting Songstress Alysia Therrien 

Alysia is a professional singer/performing artist from Windsor, Ontario. She was trained by vocal coach legend, Elaine Overholt, who also coached stars such as John Travolta, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Alannah Myles and Shawn Mendes. She has worked as a production singer on board Norwegian Cruise ships and currently is a lead singer for the local band, Big Louie and the Band

Master Card Magician: Michel LeJeune

Michel Lejeune bought a magic book for one of kids a few years ago, only to find himself getting sucked into this world of wonder and amazement completely. He is the current Vice-President of the Windsor Magic Circle.  He now performs close-up and stage magic and plans to keep making magic a bigger part of his life.

Headliner: Bill Nuvo

Bill Nuvo has been Unusually Entertaining for over 40 years!  

Voted Best Magician in Windsor for 7 years in a row!

He has travelled across Canada with his talents.  From starring in his own TV show to performing at the Stratford Festival 50th birthday celebration, he has brought his unique blend of magic, juggling, circus arts and comedy to the masses.   His shows are not to be missed!

JUST ANNOUNCED:  During intermission we will have a free draw for 2 passes to Hidden Trails, where you can try your own escape from their escape rooms!

 👉Date: Friday October 30, 2026

👉Time: 7pm

👉Location: Shadowbox Theatre - 1501 Howard Ave, Windsor, ON

Tickets: $25/person  - TICKETS ON SALE SOON.

💜www.nuvoentertainment.com

💜Venue: www.postproductionswindsor.ca

💜 Hidden Trails

WMC at the 2026 Outdoor Accessibility Fest-For-All!

📷2026 Outdoor Accessibility Fest-For-All highlights.  

🪄It was another chance for WMC members to be out and about in the community. This time we were in Cottam, Ontario.  Thank you to Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee for having us!

A great day for performers to share their unique talents and create magical memories for everyone.

I really enjoyed connecting with so many new people and organizations that are providing such amazing services for individuals and their families.  I was actually able to stop by the EMS booth to just share some personal stories and thank them for the services they do - without them, I dare to even think of the chaos our healthcare system would be in. 

photos by me

💜Windsor Magic Circle

💜Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee

Diamond Art Painting: Hot Air Balloons

 💎My first experience with Diamond Art Painting.

I remember a few years ago hearing a lot about this crafty hobby, but I never actually pursued it. However, my folks have become quite the Bingo players at their new residence and this was one of the prizes, so they passed along to me.

These teeny tiny resin gems (known as "drills") definitely take a bit of time to get used to especially with the pen and wax. It took the trial and error approach while making sure that each gem stuck to the pen and of course placing it correctly onto the canvas print.

How to do it:

1. Locate the package that has the corresponding number that you want to start with. Each have a different colour.

2. Cut the package with scissors gently. 

3. Carefully pour the gems into the tray. (slow and steady, otherwise you'll be picking them off of the floor!).

4. Peel back the protective plastic sheet only on the section you intend on working on (the canvas is sticky where the gems go, so you don't want to take off the entire plastic wrapping).

5. Dip the penpoint into the wax and then onto one gem (this could take a few attempts if it's not sticking well enough!)

6. Press the coloured gem onto the corresponding number on the canvas.

Once I was able to get a good rhythm going, it was quite relaxing. I turned on some jazzy music and sat at the dining room table.

I needed plenty of breaks because of the repetitive motion. This was a great feeling of accomplishment though after finishing each section of the hot air balloon and the grassy part on the bottom.

Thankfully, I had more than enough diamonds for each number. Initially that was a concern, but it worked out fine.

The one issue of course is the copious amounts of plastic in this kit. I feel like less plastic would be ideal and encourage me to try another kit. Perhaps there are more eco-friendly/sustainable options - I'll have to do more research on this.

It took about 3 days (around 2 hours+ each day) to complete this one. 

Finished!

A fun activity and I'll keep my eye out on any other images that pique my interest.

Mirror in the Attic: Full Show at The Masonic Temple

Mirror in the Attic -  an original Cirque-style experience!

Join a magical and memorable journey into another realm!

On a stormy day, a young woman is rummaging through old things in her attic when she is joined by a mysterious guide named Agination. Together they embark on wide adventures, creating a magical experience that forms an unexpected connection.

Mirror in the Attic is a unique theatrical experience which uses dance, mime, magic, juggling, and circus skills to explore complex aspects of the human condition. It features original music written and recorded by Bill Nuvo and tailored to this one-of-a-kind production.

Full show filmed Oct 2025 at the Masonic Temple in Windsor Ontario, Canada 

Starring Bill Nuvo and Alex Urbano.

written by Bill Nuvo with Alex Urbano & Melissa Arditti (that's ME!)

💜You can now watch the entire performance on YouTube

💜Nuvo Entertainment

💜Alex Urbano

Bewitching Afternoon at Black Sage Bakery & Cafe

Took some me time again! 

Fun afternoon with a friend, enjoying a new cozy spot that just opened up called Black Sage Bakery & Cafe at 1519 Wyandotte St East, here in Windsor, Ontario. 

Friendly staff, delicious treats and the decor is simply awesome if you can appreciate the darker, gothic/witchy style vibes.

We both had the peach coffee cake .. mmmmm! You know it's homemade when you get a nice thick slice with those tasty "crumbly bits" on the side. It was a pretty hot day so some cold H20 in cute glasses did the trick. 

Looking forward to the cooler months to try out some of their teas and of course more homemade goodies.

I'm also really curious about any fun classes and events that may peak my interest to attend.  

Highly recommend checking out and supporting.

💜Black Sage Bakery & Cafe

The Windsor Magic Circle at the Outdoor Accessibility Fest-For-All!

 🪄The Windsor Magic Circle will be at the Outdoor Accessibility Fest-For-All!

Enjoy some magical entertainment from some of our members, this Friday, September 11, 2026 from 10 am - 2 pm!

💜 Windsor Magic Circle 

💜Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Windsor Magic Circle at Downtown Windsor Farmer's Market

 🪄The Windsor Magic Circle will once again be at the Downtown Windsor Farmer's Market

Enjoy some magical entertainment from some of our members, this Saturday, August 1st 2026 from 9 am - 2 pm!

💜Learn more about the DWFM

New Local Music Single Release! Divine - themorning (official video)

Local Windsor Ontario artist, Jarrod  (aka themorning) has been creating an eclectic array of music for many years now in the genres of pop, dance, edm, trap and alt rock. 

Just released is their latest single called Divine, which has a particular alt-rock sound with evocative lyrics. The video captures the emotional vulnerability through musical tone and lyrics, highlighting the art of movement.

Give it a listen below and share. :) 

Video edited by Bill Nuvo 

with clips from pexel.com users: 

cottonbro studio, Kindel Media, ArtHouse Studio, Dmitry Marchenkov, Lay-Z Owl, Largo Editt

💜Check out more music from Jarrod (themorning) on SoundCloud

Windsor Magic Circle Presents: Proximate

Windsor Magic Circle Presents: 

✨PROXIMATE: A Close-Up Magical Experience✨

An evening of magic and mystery in an up close, interactive setting. Experience wonder, amazement and a night to remember!

Starring:

🪄Bill Nuvo

🪄Michel Lejeune

🪄Brad Toulouse

🪄Eric Bedard

🪄Garett Spencley

🪄Jay Scott

🪄Michael Ottoson 

🪄Tim Traynor 

👉Date: Friday August 21st 2026

👉Time: 7pm

👉Location: Shadowbox Theatre - 1501 Howard Ave, Windsor, ON

Tickets: $25/person  BUY NOW!

💜Learn more about the club: Windsor Magic Circle

💜Venue: www.postproductionswindsor.ca

Documentary: A Small Act

It is a true fact that we cannot save everyone. There are so many atrocities that have gone on in the wolrd and are still happening today as I write this blog.

In this documentary, the focus was on Kenya. 

The sad reality is that many will be left behind. However, the gift of sponsorship from a woman named Hilde Back from Sweden (who was a holocaust survivor) changed the life for one little boy, Chris Mburu. They share their emotional stories and a reunion neither of them will ever forget.

Without revealing anything more, I will say though that this story has a powerful message of hope. Even a single act of kindness can change the life of one person.

As that momentum keeps going, more lives can change too.  

I hope you enjoy this documentary as much as I did!

💜Learn more about the film: https://asmallact.com/

211 Ontario: World Health Day

 

As a community panel member with 211 and someone with lived experience, I continue to advocate for changes and share my voice to make our world a healthier place. 

Today is World Health Day.

From mental health supports to community health services, 211 Ontario is your direct connection to access the resources you need.

📞 Dial 2-1-1 or visit 🌐 211ontario.ca

Fontainebleau Library March Break 2026 Show

We had a packed library with a very enthusiastic crowd, including Gary Kaschak, Ward 8 Councillor  who came to see Southwestern Jack and His Magical Yak's performance today at the lovely Fontainebleau Library. 

I took a few pics here of all the excitement. It was a great way for families to have a little magical fun before March break ended. Back to school for the kids!

 

Lots of community events happening, so visit the links to keep up-to-date: 

💜The Friends of Fontainebleau Community Group 

💜Windsor Public Library

Bloomsbury House Stage Productions: Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead

Excited to see this one from Bloomsbury House Stage Productions. Bill will be playing a Tragedian! 

Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead - Tom Stoppard’s modern classic Hamlet satire is coming!

Tickets are $28 & on sale now: https://bloomsbury-house-stage-productions.square.site/

Location: 986 Ouellette Avenue, Windsor, ON.

Dates/Times:

April 17th-18th (7pm)
April 19th (2pm)
April 23rd-24th-25th (7pm)
April 26th (2pm)