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.
A little muskrat swimming down the back path, I usually walk to the back bridge.
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.
I really think he was telling me to stop taking his photo while he was eating. lol
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.
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.
A recent picture of the three of us.
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?
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.
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.
Minnie sleeping on her favorite teddy bear.
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.
Gizmo sporting his new red halter.
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
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.
Gizmo and Cocoa sleeping in front of the fire.
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.
Did you or are you celebrating St. Patrick’s Day? I have friends and family members out drinking green beer and Irish whiskey. Me? Well, I celebrated in my own little way. I did where my green Ireland shirt today. When I was in the store, I noticed a group of employees running around trying to pinch each other because none of them were wearing green.
I also splurged earlier with this delicious cake donut, the chocolate frosting, and Shamrock sprinkles were very yummy. And nowhere near on my current healthy eating list.
It’s allowed on St. Patrick’s Day, right?
I am currently listening to Celtic Thunder, one of my favorite groups.
For me, the day was simple but very enjoyable. If you are out and about this evening…I wish you safe travels.
May the Irish hills caress you. May her lakes and rivers bless you. May the luck of the Irish enfold you. May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you.
My parents love to stop at antique stores and little thrift shops. Recently, they came across a box of old photos and postcards. They absolutely made my day by giving me this box. I felt like it was Christmas. I am slowly sorting through the material. I thought I would share one of the photos with you.
Written in pencil on the back:
Kate Sheffield
3 Nov 1911
The photo does show signs of age. The man in the photo is unidentified which of course makes me want to know who he is even more…
March 15, 2016, has been named Buzzard’s Day. Here in Michigan, we have Turkey Buzzards or otherwise known as Turkey Vultures.
When the water down on the river flats goes down, carp and other aquatic wildlife are trapped in shallow pools. As the pools dry up, the fish die leaving plenty of decaying food behind for the buzzards to enjoy.
The large black birds are fascinating to watch. I have witnessed up to 20 in my backfield at one time. The birds have up to six-foot wingspan which provides quite a sight when they are all leaving the ground. One of the most noticeable features are the reddish heads. Some seem to have a dull reddish color where others are bright red. I cannot tell you the distinction in the varying colors.
I love how they perch themselves on top of my old barn.
Most people find Turkey Vultures to be ugly or an unsightly bothersome bird. I find the large birds to beautifully unique. Of course…I have always been the odd one.
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.).
Rebecca's Vintage and Wildlife Photography 