A Moment at the River Flats

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Michigan’s weather has been strange for the last couple of weeks.  There’s actually supposed to be a warming trend on Monday which could bring warmer temps around 48˚F; I want a white Christmas. I have very little Christmas spirit; I was hoping a little snow would get me into the holiday mood.  I know I should be thankful for the warmer weather, Michigan has seen worse with lots of snow and frigid temps.

We actually had more snow at the beginning of November.  Now the forecast is predicting rain. We were having some colder mornings; you know the type where the cold actually takes your breath away. Despite the colder days, I do like to get outdoors even if my time outside is short. Viewing nature during each season has helped me learn and understand the environment that surrounds me on a daily basis.

The main photo that I am sharing with you, was taking on one of those cold blistery days where even the air seemed to be frozen in place. Even though, the weather was less than desirable I wanted to snap some photos of the geese and swans that landed to rest down on the river flats.

c1

 

The swan trying to keep warm from the blowing wind.

 

c2

 

I love how the geese just walk across the ice to find an open water space.

The Snowy Owl: Magical Bird

Posted on by Rebecca C.

As many of you know I am a huge fan of wildlife, I could spend hours watching animals in their natural habitat. Today, I was able to view a Snowy Owl for the first time in the wild.  I was returning from dropping my niece and nephew off at school and I got a glimpse of white flying across the road. Of course, my curiosity was immediately peaked.  Followed by a leap of joy, when I realized what bird had caught my attention.  Snowy Owls are beautiful creatures.

I was disappointed with myself for not having my good camera but I still managed to get a picture of this magnificent bird.  My mom was with me in the car, we sat and watched her for a long period of time (technically, I cannot tell you if the owl was male or female.  I do not have the knowledge to distinguish the sexes).

The Snowy Owl was made popular by the Harry Potter series with the character Hedwig.  I can honestly tell you watching this breathtaking bird was magical.

The Joy of Christmas Cards

Posted on by Rebecca C.

A diverse variety of Christmas cards spread out across the kitchen table, my favorite radio station is blaring loudly throughout the house. I am sipping hot tea as I glance down at my lengthy Christmas card exchange list.  I send numerous Christmas cards out each year (when I say numerous, I mean hundreds).   I even write little notes or long letters in some of the cards depending on if I get to see that person on a regular basis or not.  Enclosing a letter or decorating the envelope with stickers just adds to the overall creative process.

Since we live in technological world where social media provides an instant response to a greeting or letter; I have had people tell me that the tradition is no longer in style. In fact, I was told the tradition was a dying art. However, I love sending and receiving Christmas cards.  When a friend or family receives my card, I want them to know that I was thinking about them during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

The first Christmas card was given by Sir Henry Cole in 1843 in England.  John Horsely, an artist, was a friend of Sir Henry Cole and made the first design.  And, actually the design was criticized by some since the artwork showed children with a glass of wine.  I can only imagine what would have been said, if these critics could see some of the cards that are designed today.

As time went on, the sending of Christmas cards became more popular.  Some of the cards that were sent in the 1910’s and 1920’s were designed by hand.  The cards were decorated with art work created by ribbons, foil, and pieces of cloth.  The home crafted cards were given by hand since they could not be delivered through the post. I can remember making Christmas cards in school when I was younger to bring home to my parents.  I always used lots of color and glitter.

The Christmas cards that I send and receive remind me how delicate life can be at times.  I look down my list and realize that some of the people that I sent cards to in the past are no longer with us this year.  So, create a list, make out a card and let people know that you are thinking about them this holiday season.  Because the list may be reduced next year and you will miss the chance to tell someone that you care.

Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Over the weekend, I was fortunate enough to visit the Rooftop Landing Reindeer Farm.  Growing up on a farm, I love animals, I had never seen a reindeer up close.  The trip to Clare, Michigan was worth the extra miles.  The Reindeer Farm is great for photo opportunities especially if you have children. You can even get your photo done professional right there in the little gift shop area.

 

c3

 

I was able to get my photo taken with Santa. There was no cost, you just had to use your own camera.  (please ignore my hair, the day was windy).

c5

I went on a small wagon ride.  During the ride, I get to hear the story of Rex and Harley, the two Belgium horses who pulled the wagon.  Rex and Harley were rescue animals who were abused.  The two beautiful horses will pull the wagon for another season before being put into retirement.  Hearing the story and the amount of work the couple put into their horse ranch/farm made paying for the wagon ride a small gesture. (The couple keeps all the proceeds from the rides).

c4

 

On the wagon trail, a tree was decorated which created excitement for the children on the ride.  I also loved the mom singing Christmas carols to her son as we went through the wooded area.  The little boy who I would guess was around three years old seemed a little apprehensive on the wagon being pulled by two huge horses.  The singing from his mother made him smile.

 

c6

 

The area where you could view these magnificent reindeer had signs filled with information and facts.

I would recommend this little farm experience for all those who are in the area of Clare, Michigan especially if you have small children.

 

St. Johns Light Parade 2014

Posted on by Rebecca C.

For many Black Friday, entailed early morning shopping.  I slept in.  I had actually gone shopping on Thanksgiving night; my mom begged me to take her.  Of course, I spent most of my time hiding down an aisle while my mom and niece searched for bargains. I am just not a fan of the chaos and the crowds.

Later in the evening on Friday, November 28th, I actually took time and went to the Light Parade in St. Johns, Michigan.  The little parade was fun; the cold not so much.  The snow did give the whole event an extra Christmas touch.

I really haven’t found my Christmas spirit yet.  I am not sure why, I usually have my tee up by now.  So, I have decided to attend local events in hopes of finding my Christmas spirit.  I thought I would share them with all of you.

 

 

c2

Of course, the man of the hour:  Santa Claus makes his way down to the train depot.

c3

 

Santa gets the key to the city to be able to deliver all the toys to the good boys and girls of the town. After all the key was presented, the Little Miss Mint officially started the holiday season by lighting the Christmas tree.

 

Happy Thanksgiving

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Like many other families, I celebrated Thanksgiving early.  My siblings and their significant others could not gather on the actual holiday due to work and other commitments.  We decided to get together last Saturday at my parents’ house.

Even though, the celebration was not held on Thanksgiving, we still all enjoyed ourselves. Honestly, I think just being together should be the focus of the day.  Life can change quickly; those who gathered around the table this year may not be present next.

As you sit down to celebrate the holiday today, remember to be thankful for what you do have. People often forget to enjoy the moment.  I am convinced there is always something to be thankful for, life should not always be about getting the bigger paycheck, the newer car, or even publishing your novel. Take a look around the table and be grateful for all that life current has to offer.

I am wishing many blessings to you this Thanksgiving.

May we all realize the most important things for which to give thanks.

So however you decide to spend the day, I hope you are blessed.

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Rebecca C.

P.S.

I am still thankful for Thanksgiving; I get to spend the day with my niece and my parents.  We are cooking a small meal.  Then, my niece, mom and I are going to work on Christmas crafts.  I am truly blessed.

Introduction to My New Blog

Posted on by Rebecca C.

I wanted to create a blog that’s about anything and everything.  On a daily basis, I write content for a variety of clients.  Don’t get me wrong, I am thankful for the pay as well as the ability to write and research subjects to my client’s satisfaction.  However, somewhere along the line I have lost my focus in my personal and creative writings. So, I am hoping by starting a new blog, I can find my inspiration to finish my book. I also want an outlet for whatever comes to my mind.  You are warned.

Besides being an avid writer which I have done all my life, I am photographer.  My favorite subject to photograph is wildlife.  I can spend hours outdoors as I try to get the perfect photo of a bird, spider or a breathtaking landscape.

Next to wildlife photography, black and white photography is my favorite artistic outlet. I love using black and white photography when taking photos of people.  Black and white photography gives me a chance to view more a person’s inner self.   I do plan to share photos with you as well.

I am an movie nut and a lover of good music.  Feel free to share your favorites with me.  I will watch or listen to either.  But, I will also give you my opinion.

Thanks for following my new site.

Have a great evening.

Rebecca C.