Arbor Day

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Today, April 24, 2015 is Arbor Day. So, what exactly is Arbor Day? In the simplest terms, Arbor Day is the celebration of trees; the overall importance the trees bring to the environment, planet and our very existence. I love being able to photograph birds and other wildlife as they play among the trees.

History of Arbor Day

Why the name Arbor? In Latin, the name arbor actually means tree which is perfect fit. Arbor Day is celebrated around the world. The dates may vary but the celebration is the same. The very first Arbor Day can actually be traced back to 1805 to a small Spanish village, the Villanueva de la Sierra. In the United States, the first Arbor Day was organized in Nebraska City, Nebraska. Approximately 1 million trees were in planted in Nebraska on April 10, 1872. The early beginnings sparked a worldwide observance for the importance of trees.

Arbor Day Foundation

To help aid in the observing the celebration of trees, the Arbor Day Foundation was created in 1972 by John Rosenow. The foundation helps in the efforts of selling trees and merchandise as a way to promote Arbor Day. The mission of the Arbor Day Foundation is “”to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees”.

Michigan Arbor Day Alliance

The Michigan Arbor Day Alliance wants to promote the celebration of Arbor Day throughout the year. I agree with this concept, I like the idea of day of observance to bring everyone’s attention to the importance of trees on our daily lives. However, I think the promoting of planting and caring for trees should be done every day.

Personally, I cannot plant trees today. The weather is just not cooperating. Even though I do see the sun finally peeking through the clouds; the weather forecast is looking better for next week. I do plan to plant more trees this spring. I want more fruit trees planted (if funds permit). I am trying to create my own fruit orchard in my yard. I have a good start so far, but I want to add to my collection. By planting fruit trees, I am observing Arbor Day (just a little later in the spring).

Sources:

www.miarbordayalliance.org

www.arborday.org

 

National Picnic Day

Posted on by Rebecca C.

According to Giftypedia, today is National Picnic Day. I like unofficial holidays that promote being outdoors. Of course, here in Michigan a picnic would be a very cold venture. The last couple days have brought wind and even a little snow.  But the weather is normal for springtime in Michigan. The forecast shows warmer weather on the horizon.

I love the idea of spending a lazy afternoon outdoors on a warm summer day with a picnic basket (and a camera). As an adult, I think the concept of having a picnic is almost a romantic notion.

When I was a child, we would always have picnics when we went traveling up north. The day before our travels, my mother would buy a bucket of chicken.  The chicken would be our main treat on the picnic.  My mom would make potato salad or macaroni salad as a side dish.  She would allow for chips and pop as a special treat.

We would leave early in the morning, My siblings and I packed in the back of the car, the first main stop would be Mackinaw. After reaching the Mighty Mac, we wold unpack for a picnic which was always at the park right by the bridge. We would eat and wander down to the water where seeing the Mackinaw Bridge up close was an awesome sight. I even took pictures back then.

So, where is your favorite place to have a picnic? Do you have memory to share?

Until next time….peace….

Earth Day Facts

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Earth Day is celebrated each year on April 22.  Earth Day has become an event on how to connect and celebrate nature as well as get educated about pressing environmental issues. We must all take a moment to see how we impact the environment and what actions can be taken to help lessen the effect.  Here are some facts about Earth Day.

Who Came Up with Earth Day?

Earth Day was thought up by Senator Gaylord Nelson who was a Democrat from Wisconsin. Nelson was inspired by the various types of protests and teach-ins that took place throughout college campus everywhere.  Nelson decided that he wanted to apply that concept to a larger scale that would bring focus to the environment

When Was the First Earth Day?

The first Earth Day took place on April 22, 1970 with approximately 20 million people in attendance at various rallies across the United States.  Earth Day is now recognized in over 180 countries with over 1 billion people taking part in the day. Social media has helped spread the news of Earth Day and the environmental issues which the day represents.

Earth Day has even become a part of various teaching curriculums in schools around the globe. By introducing Earth Day activities in the curriculum teachers and environmentalists are hoping the events will have a lasting effect on the children.

Other cities around the globe have turned Earth Day into a weeklong celebration.  The concept is to have a lasting effect on those who participate in the activities.  The activities act as way to remind people the value of going green in their local communities.

How Many Jobs Does Recycling Produce?

Many people believe that recycling is a waste of time and effort.  However the effort does pay off.  Approximately, 3.1 million jobs in the United States are from recycling and remanufacturing.  The impact of simple recycling can have long reaching results.

Plastic Bottles

The convenience of plastic bottles takes up space in landfills.  Most of us are guilty of grabbing that bottle of water at the local gas station as we head out for the day.  In fact in the United States there is over 200 billion beverage containers sold in any given year.  The number is staggering.  So is the fact that almost two-thirds of these containers will end up in a landfill or on the side of the road.  This is one of the reasons why recycling plastic containers is so important.

Air Pollution

Air pollution is becoming a growing problem in many areas around the globe.  The fact is that polluted air can cause lasting damage on the human body.  Over 2 million people will die each year due to air pollutants.

There are many more facts about Earth Day and the environment.  Take a moment; look up ways to participate in a local event.

Sources:

http://www.henslernurseryindiana.com/

www.mnn.com

 

 

 

 

 

Happy Earth Day!

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Happy Earth Day!!

    Why celebrate Earth Day? I think for me, the question would be, “why wouldn’t I celebrate Earth Day?” As a lover of the great outdoors, I think we should all be aware of out impact on our local environment and the planet as a whole. If everyone would just take the time to participate in some small way; the overall impact would be great. I have seen firsthand how trash, pollutants and debris can litter up the local landscape, river and wooded areas. Begin in small ways by recycling plastic bags or magazines; there are drop off points throughout all communities.

Consider these other ideas that can be done as well; get the kids to help. Getting children involved with a variety of activities can help bring awareness to the environment and nature while having fun.

  • Pinecones and Peanut butter feeders.

I love to feed the birds. I think feeding the birds is both beneficial to them and myself. One way to feed the birds is by making little pinecone feeders. We use to do this when I was a child. We would take pinecones and coat them with a thick layer of peanut butter then add seeds. I actually still do this sometimes; I even add raisins to the mix as well. Then, I hang them in the trees around my house.

  • Go outside and explore.

I loved being outdoors as a child, I would spend hours exploring, imagining and having fun with friends and family. I still enjoy being outdoors today. Spending a day in nature is relaxing. I just grab my camera and go.

But I also enjoy just sitting on my porch and listening to the different sounds that nature makes. So, if you get a moment take a walk to celebrate Earth Day. I understand the weather may not be ideal. Here in Mid-Michigan, I actually saw snowflakes this morning. But if you are able, get outdoors. Even if your time is spent in the backyard, walking around the block or to a local park, there’s always something to see.

  • Collect nature items (but be cautious).

When you are out exploring collect little nature items such as small rocks, fallen leaves and acorns but at the same time be careful. Some items in nature are better left alone especially the poison ivy leaves. Also, leave flowers and growing plants alone. The joy is to watch these natural items grow. Go home and look up your new finds on the computer or in a book. Have the children make a scrapbook or design a keepsake shoe box to store items in.  The small keepsakes could spark a lifetime of interest in environmental sciences.

  • Take photos.

You don’t need a fancy camera to take photos of nature. You can give kids cheap throw away cameras or use inexpensive digital cameras. Let your children take pictures of whatever interests them. You can always print the pictures off and store in scrap book. Have the children explain why they took this picture. A simple trip outside becomes a keepsake.

  • Plant a flower or plant a tree.

If weather permits plant a flower outside or a tree, make the planting a yearly event. Here in Michigan especially with sign of snow, I cannot get outdoors to plant anything new. In the past, I have planted flower seeds in organic cups and let the seeds start to grow. Once the weather is agreeable; I have taken the little cups and plant them directly into the ground.

These are only a few ideas; there are many others that can be done. Start a tradition to celebrate Earth Day with a small activity. But get outdoors as much as possible; the benefits go way beyond viewing nature.

Happy National Bat Appreciation Day!

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Happy National Bat Appreciation Day!

I like bats when they are outside. It’s when they are flying around in my house that I have a problem. But I always safely catch them and release them back outside.

I was surprise to find out that Michigan has nine different bat species.

The different bats include:

  • Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus)
  • Little Brown Bat (Myotis lucifugus)
  • Eastern Red Bat (Lasiurus borealis)
  • The Hoary Bat (Lasiurus cinereus)
  • Tri-Colored Bat (Perimyotis subflavus)
  • Silvered Haired Bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans)
  • Indiana Bat (Myotis solidalis)
  • Evening Bat (Nycticeius humeralis)
  • Northern Long-Eared Bat (Myotis septentrionalis)

Here in Michigan, the Little Brown Bat or Myotis lucifugus is the most common.  The Little Brown Bat is a relatively small mammal with an olive-brownish to dark yellowish brown colored coat.   In Latin, the word Myotis means mouse ear which is great for these Little Brown Bats since they do look like they have little mouse ears. I have photographed a few in my time. Even though I know they are only insect eating creatures; I am still cautious when approaching them.  I guess I have heard too many urban legends in my time.

According to the Michigan DNR website, “Little brown bats use echolocation to find and capture prey. They emit pulses of high frequency sound (20-130 kHz) that bounce off nearby objects. The bats then use the echoes to determine the object’s distance, size, and shape. They feed primarily on aquatic insects, including mayflies, caddis flies, and stoneflies. They will also feed on other flies, wasps, moths, and beetles to supplement their diet. Typical summer foraging areas include forest edges, along streams and lakes, and sometimes in small cultivated fields. Young little brown bats can eat up to 1.8 grams of insects/night; lactating females can eat up to 3.7 grams of insects/hour due to increased energy demands” (2014).  Of course, I wish they would eat more mosquitoes in my area.

Source:

http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-153-10370_12145_12205-70016–,00.html

 

The Swans Are Back

Posted on by Rebecca C.

I was happy to see that the swans are back. The return of the Trumpeter Swans reminds me that spring is truly here. I love listening to the swans (well, I enjoy listening to most wildlife).  But the chatter between the two swans have while swimming is fascinating.  The calls back and forth to each other is almost a low nasally honking.  The pair of Trumpeter Swans, the largest waterfowl in North America never stay in the area. I am assuming, the river flats are just a stop until they reach their final destination. But I do love viewing them every year.

The river flats surrounding the Maple River are high right now due to the rain. The rain is normal for this time of year here in mid-Michigan. I was disappointed to see my favorite hiking trail on the back property flooded over this afternoon. But I am sure the little wood ducks are very happy with the extra water.

Until next time…peace

 

Another Spring Day?

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Another Spring day here in Michigan.  I say this with a tone of sarcasm. Even though the weather is really typical for Michigan. I woke up this morning to snow.  Not much just enough to let me know the air would be cold and damp all day. In fact the snow has actually disappeared already.  According to the weather report, there is a promise of warmer weather coming in.

So, I took my own advice from yesterday’s blog and went for a walk. The walk was a bit “crispy” but I enjoyed seeing all the wildlife. I was able to view a magnificent Sand Hill Crane fly over the back property. She (no I don’t know if the crane was a female for certain, I don’t have that knowledge) was spectacular to watch. Her enormous wind span is such a sight. I could watch cranes all day especially when they use that low throttling call. I find their “song” beautiful.

The Canadian Geese were making their voice heard down on the river flats as I approached. I accidentally startled a small pair of wood ducks.  When I returned to my house, I noticed a small herd of Whitetail Deer (around 12) were making their way across the field. I am happy to see the wildlife returning to the area. As more and more wildlife becomes visible or heard, I know the warmer weather is fast approaching.

Take a Walk In the Park Day

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Today is considered to be “Take a Walk in the Park Day”.  I am a big advocate for being outdoors. I think everyone should try to be outside on a daily basis. Even if the time outside is short due to the weather; get outdoors. Michigan can dish out some pretty cold, windy, wet, snowy, days.

I still find the need to be outdoors during those times even if my time outdoors is limited. I may just walk to my mail box or walk around the house.  On those days, where the weather will  not allow me to be outside, I step out on to my front porch just to view my surroundings. I understand everyone cannot do the same. Eventually, you almost become addicted to being outdoors. I have days where I just need to “unplug” myself from all my technical gadgets (which I love). I still carry my cell phone with me for emergency use. I put the ringer to silent.  Of course, I never go for a walk without my camera. Michigan has some of the most beautiful wildlife and nature landscapes.

I am lucky because I am near numerous areas where I can enjoy walking around on old paths and trails to view and photograph the wildlife. I live near the Maple River.  I can walk around the edge of the river flats to discover any creature movement. I have been doing this since I can remember. Despite being an adult, I still come home with my boots covered in mud. Oh well.

Despite the cold weather or hectic schedules, I still think you should take a walk in the park or walk around on a hiking trail. You do not have to be professionally hiker to enjoy the outdoors. Grab a pair of comfortable walking shoes and enjoy. A simple walk around the block can actually be beneficial to both you and your family.

Here in Michigan, there a numerous beautiful hiking trails and parks to discover and explore nature. In fact in most areas, parks are a short drive away. I know being outdoors can be difficult especially with hectic work and school schedules. But I do think making an effort to spend time outdoors is good for everyone especially for children. Plan a special day to go to the park.  When you walk around, point out the birds, let children explore the surroundings.  You may surprised by their questions or their need to learn more about their surroundings.

 

Is it Spring?

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Is it Spring? Oh, I just love living in Michigan. To be honest I do love it here. The day started out with the sun shining; I thought the sun was a predictor for warmer afternoon. A chance for me to get out and walk around my yard; I have been thinking about what herbs and vegetables I would like to plant. But no by the afternoon, the wind picked up and the snow started to fall. What can I say, it’s spring time in Michigan. One moment the weather seems warm and the next I am building a fire.

Well, I hope everyone had a great weekend. May your week be filled with peace and harmony.

Until next time….peace.

First Day of Spring

Posted on by Rebecca C.

The first day of Spring brought warm, sun shine with over 50 degree weather. I love seeing the sun shine through out my entire house. Except for the sun actually reveals how much dust and cob webs my house currently holds. I guess a Spring cleaning day will be in my near future.

At least with the warmer weather that we have been experiencing here in mid-Michigan, I can get outdoors to photograph wild life. I do get out in the winter, but during the other season I love being outside as much as possible.

The photo I am sharing is a hawk.  I seen him outside my kitchen window (I cannot actually confirm he is male, I am guessing) flying in my field. Then, he dove downward to catch his prey.  The hawk stayed on the ground for some time until he retreated to the nearby tree.  I took this opportunity to photograph him.

I was actually standing on my front porch when I took this picture which is a bit grainy. I need to invest in another long lens. The hawk immediately knew I was there. He even looks like he is starring right at me in a couple of the photos. I guess my camera clicking was bothering his concentration. He kept moving from branch to branch as he watched my every move. Then, he dove down again to find his prey.  I watched him for a while without bothering him with my camera. I found his movements remarkable.

Well, Happy First Day of Spring everyone!

Until next time…. peace….