Bridgeville Beauties: Butttonbush

I often hear, “it’s just a weed” or “it’s just a bug”. Despite their humble beginnings, I find everything in the natural world beautiful. I mean, don’t get me wrong, there a few critters that make me squeamish. Wild rats, did I mention rats? I know the irrational fear comes from reading too many history books about the plague.

My new nature series, Bridgeville Beauties highlights my finds in my area. The weeds, bugs, and critters of Michigan will be my area of focus.

Starting with the first one, the Buttonbush or Bush Willow is one of my favorite plants to photograph. Growing up to 12 feet, I generally find the white flowering bush near the creek line. The white flowers with spike-like yellow heads are oddly beautiful.

Attracting bees and hummingbirds, I find the Buttonbush to be a very beneficial “weed”.

A bee enjoying the pollen from the Buttonbush.

Until next time…peace

Happy National Moon Day

“We love the night and its quiet, and there is no night that we love so well as that on which the moon is coffined in clouds.”
― Fitz-James O’Brien, Classic Ghost Stories by Wilkie Collins, M.R. James, Charles Dickens and Others

 

Happy National Moon Day!

The beautiful Supermoon from 2016

I admit I love photographing the moon. I may not do the best job. But there’s something about being outdoors at night that just connects me to the universe.

 

Until next time…peace

A Sunny Turtle

Spending time outdoors is my favorite summer activity. I do tend to take a lot of photos.  I loved watching this little-Painted Turtle sunning himself (or herself) on the rocks today. Do you see the snails off to the side? I didn’t even realize they were in the picture until I put them on my computer.

Until next time…peace

Summer Solstice

Wishing everyone Summer Solstice Blessings! Today is the perfect tribute to the first day of summer. As evening approaches, the sun is still shining brightly. I admit, being outdoors today was exactly what I needed. Often, the news and other media sources weight heavy on my soul. Spending time among nature reminds me there is beauty in the world.

Until next time…peace

Off the Beaten Path

Doesn’t the scene resemble a portal to another world? I imagine stepping through a veil to experience the magical world that surrounds us without our knowledge. Yes, I am writing a story right now. Take time to get off the beaten path, the inspiration may be all you need to start a new chapter.

Until next time…peace

Unplug: Go Outside

A friend recently stated, “why haven’t you been online?” Despite the mosquitoes, the weather has been absolutely gorgeous. Warm sunny days, a slight breeze to the air,  cooler nights, and the summer birds returning, why wouldn’t I be outside? Michigan has numerous hiking trails and scenic destinations to enjoy.

Sometimes, being outdoors and unplugging from social networks is the best way to recharge. Personally, I find being outdoors the perfect way to find inspiration for a story, a photo or art project.

So if you get a chance, unplug and go outdoors.

Until next time….peace

 

Vintage Photo: A School for Girls???

Sorting through my recent pile of photos, this one caught my eye. From the tilted potted plant on the side to the look on the girls’ faces, I would love to know more about the photo. I can guess, a boarding school for girls or finishing school. Or perhaps, they were just all together for a church choir. I truly will probably never know the real story.

Until next time…peace

 

Critter of the Day: Downy Woodpecker

Right now, the water is extremely high. Leaving me to stick close to my house. One good aspect, I get to watch the birds “play” out by my feeders. I admit the little Downy woodpecker is one of my favorites. He just seems to scamper up the pole with ease.

When I am outside taking photos, I cannot help but wonder if he is watching me as much as I am watching him.

Until next time…peace

 

Morning Sunrise: Pretty in Pink

I am thankful for long days filled with family, friends, and yes, work. But before the day gets too hectic, I love to watch the sunrise. This morning, the beautiful pink sky was breathtaking. I could hear the turkeys calling in the distance. The morning birds beginning to sing. I cannot think of a better way to start a day.

Until next time…peace