Polar Vortex to Ice

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Last week was freezing here in mid-Michigan. The Polar Vortex gave us unbelievably frigid temperatures. Along with biting cold, the bone-chilling wind chills made me want to stay indoors. Then, we had a brief warm up to almost fifty degrees. And, now…well…we have ice everywhere. I am afraid to ask what Mother Nature has in store for us next.

 

I just know he (or she) is telling me, “Excuse me can you fill your bird feeders? So I can sit out here, eat, and drive your dogs insane.”

I took extra care on keeping my feeders full. I had numerous winged visitors and a few furry ones.

I think the bird was giving me the evil eye because I was interrupting lunch. Notice the thin layer of ice on the branches?

Even though, I generally do not mind winter. I mean, the changing seasons is why I enjoy Michigan. But, I must admit, I am looking forward to Spring.

Until next time..peace

 

Merry Christmas!

Posted on by Rebecca C.

“Snow was falling,
so much like stars
filling the dark trees
that one could easily imagine
its reason for being was nothing more
than prettiness.”
― Mary Oliver

 

We don’t have much snow in mid-Michigan right now. I was really hoping for a white Christmas. I am sure the snow will arrive soon enough.

For those who are celebrating today….Merry Christmas!

Until next time…peace

Bridgeville Beauties: Praying Mantis

Posted on by Rebecca C.

The Praying Mantis fascinates me (yes, I know all creatures fascinate me). But there’s just something about the oddly shaped head, I cannot help but love.

I took this photo a couple of years ago. Resting on the grapevine in the mid-day sun, the Praying Mantis was actually licking his leg. I had never seen this type of behavior prior to this occasion. I must have taken over 1000 photos of him (or her) that day.

During my research, I have discovered there are thousands of species of the Praying Mantis or the scientific name Mantodea. Due to the varying types, the Mantis can be found on every continent but one, Antartica.

The placement of the eyes allows the Mantis to spot movement from almost sixty feet away. Finding an abundance in my yard, the green Praying Mantis feasts on a variety of insects including mosquitoes, crickets, and flies.

Until next time…peace