Originally, my plan for today was to mow the lawn. After I reached half way around my yard, I soon realized, I could not finish. The yard had standing water from the other night’s rain. So, I decided to do some wandering.
Being in nature and unplugging for a short time helps me stay creative.
Frogs and more frogs, and tadpoles….
Some wildlife was harder to spot than others.
Who is watching who?
“What is there to life
if a man cannot hear the lonely cry of a whippoorwill
or the arguments of the frogs around a pond at night?”
Chief Seattle, 1854
Today, April 30, 2016, is Save the Frogs day. I love listening to the frogs. When I hear the sounds of frogs croaking loudly, I know warmer weather is being ushered in. I look forward to their beautiful sounds after each long winter. The different croaking sounds create a song over the nearby fields, ponds, and river flats that surround my house.
Frogs serve as an important role in our fragile ecosystem. In tadpole form, the growing frogs keep water areas clean from over growing algae. As the little frogs grow into adulthood, they begin eating insects as part of their diet. The consumption of insects is important in keeping the potential spread of diseases down.
For example, mosquitos have been known to transmit diseases to humans. Frogs help in keeping the mosquito population down. Without frogs, mosquitos and other insects would be out of control. An increasing population of insects would create serious pest control problems for humans.
Frogs are also known as an indicator species. When the frogs’ living environment becomes polluted, the results will be easy to view in the frogs’ offspring. The new frogs will be born with abnormalities which provide a warning to humans living in the same area. Protecting the frogs’ natural environment will, in turn, protect humans.
Honestly, I cannot imagine the world without frogs that let me know the Earth is awakening after a winter slumber.
Until next time….peace….
Spring is finally bringing warmer weather. I love being outdoors. I am slowly trying to get my yard cleaned up. I am designing a fairy garden out front. It’s going to be a slow process but I hope my vision comes together.
With the melting snow and the rainy weather, the back paths are covered with water. I cannot get back to the bridge to view the different wildlife.
At least, some of the little creatures were enjoying the water covered paths. The muskrats were out and about. I found them a complete joy to watch as they scampered around the paths.
Until next time…peace
Most of the time, I find Mother Nature endearing. I love Michigan’s changing seasons. With that being said, I want warmer weather. I know I get what I get. But today with the mixture of heavy snow, freezing rain, and sleet I must admit I am ready for warmer weather.
My poor early blooming flowers are looking pathetic under the weight of the snow and ice.
With that being said, I must admit I am grateful (despite the dreary day) I started a warm fire and spent the rest of the day doing what I love most….writing.
At least, the updated weather forecast shows signs of improvement, I just would like to spend some extra time outdoors without being cold and wet.
Until next time….peace
Today, April 10, 2016, is National Siblings Day. I am lucky enough to have two younger siblings. Over the years, our family has grown with spouses, nieces, and a nephew. We try to get together when we are able especially on holidays.
Along with the traditional additions, our family has added friends as members; allowing more children (well some of them are actually adults now) to call me, “Aunt”. I know in the past, I had a couple people make comments on why I let so many kids call me their aunt. Personally, I do not see the harm. I get notes on social media or pictures to hang on my fridge. Really, what else can I ask for in life?
So, Happy National Siblings Day to everyone!
Until next time……peace
“Look deep into nature,
and then you will understand
everything better.”
~Albert Einstein~
I was able to take about a hundred photos of these beautiful creatures. In my opinion, the Sandhill Cranes are just amazing to watch. After a while, I just stood and observed the pair as they waded gracefully through the water’s edge in search of food.
I cannot believe how nature always finds a way to inspire and amaze me at the same time.
Until next time….peace
For those who celebrated today, Happy Easter. Regardless if you celebrate or not, I hope you were able to spend time with family and friends.
Today was nice…sun shining, light breeze….lots of family members….lots of food….I really couldn’t ask for a better day.
My contribution for the day was an Easter cake. I had fun decorating the cake. I added candies which my nieces and nephew loved.
Until next time…peace
Today, March 23, 2016, is National Puppy Day. I currently have two puppies, Gizmo and Cocoa and an older dog, Minnie. All three of my dogs are a little bit spoiled. Okay, they are a lot spoiled.
My longtime pet, T-Bone died last Autumn, he was 16 years old. He was my pal, I always took him outdoors with me. He knew the back wood trails by heart. After he died, I told myself I was not going to get another dog. I still had my other dog, Minnie who is 11. She is a min pin who has recently gone partially blind. She still gets around the house just fine.
But then, I saw a picture of this little black puppy who needed a home. So, I brought him home. Gizmo added a lot of energy to my household.
Then, a couple weeks ago I was contacted about another puppy who was going to be sent to the pound. Well, I hated the idea, so I brought her home. One of the main reasons I brought her home was to help keep Gizmo entertained.
Cocoa and Gizmo became immediate pals. With the two of them playing together, Minnie is left alone. She likes to sit by me while I write.
So to celebrate National Puppy Day, I made them all homemade dog treats. I normally try to keep dog treats in the house. But my schedule has been tight, I hadn’t made any in a while. Needless to say, they were all happy with their special treat today.
Until next time…peace
Today, March 14, 2016, is dedicated to Moths. People usually like the beauty of butterflies over moths. I find both species to be naturally beautiful. I have come across some beautiful species here in Michigan. I would like to learn more on the subject of attracting moths. I have been trying to research plants to see if certain varieties will attract moths. So, I will have to see what I can come up with as I search.
Personally, I would like to learn more on the subject of attracting moths. I have been trying to research plants to see if certain varieties will draw months to my yard. I will have to see what I can come up with as I search. Who knows maybe the new plant life will add a touch of color to parts of my yard.
I do have to say, I am glad there is an entire day dedicated to the moth’s beauty. Everyone can have a chance to admire the flying little insects. Moth’s come in all different sizes. The Cecropia Moth is the largest moth I have ever photographed. The Cecropia Moth was about as big as my hand. I mostly took side views of the multi-colored moth. I never pick up insects to take better photos. I definitely did not want to harm her. (No, I really do not have any idea if the beautiful insect was male or female.).
Until next time……peace
For most people here in mid-Michigan the return of the Robin is usually the first sign of Spring. In fact, I witnessed a Robin down by the river beds just the other day.
For me, the first sign of Spring comes with the return of the Sandhill Cranes. I absolutely love these elegant creatures.
I hear their low throttling call echoing from the river flats. I could listen to them all day. With the rising water due to the melting snow, I have not been able to get down to the flats to photograph these magnificent birds up close.
I was happy to find a pair foraging for food out in the back field. The water levels are high and the fields have numerous areas with standing water. The Sandhill Cranes were definitely enjoying themselves as they searched for a meal.
Until next time….peace…..
Rebecca's Vintage and Wildlife Photography 