Nature Brings Me Peace

Posted on by Rebecca C.

“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.” -
John Burroughs

Last week was stressful. I allowed outside forces get the best of me. To get back my sense of being, I “unplugged” for the weekend. I mean don’t get me wrong, I still checked my email and social sites. But I just spent as much time as possible outdoors. The weather was perfect. Even though, there were some spots of rain on Sunday. I just needed a distraction from my thoughts which can be hard to do for a writer. I will admit my thoughts can lead to the most disastrous case scenarios imaginable. The thought process is great for creating new story lines but not for the reality of everyday life.

One of the greatest finds this weekend were these little baby bunnies. The bunnies were out in the field behind my house. At first, I thought there were only three in the hole which was covered with rabbit’s fur. But upon further inspection, I realized there were actually four. I did not want to disturb them, so I had to wait for them to shift around before I could get an accurate count. I have not come across little baby bunnies in the wild in forever. So, I found the sight to be a treat. Often the smallest beings can bring the most peace.

The Maple River seemed to blow gently in the wind all weekend. I can honestly say, spending time by the river gives me a sense of peace and relaxation. I think, I have to spend time outside to recharge myself. Taking photos and notes on the my surroundings tunes me into the natural world while given me a sense of internal peace.

I love all the variations of green that highlight the breezy wind.
I love all the variations of green that highlight the breezy wind.

Until next time…peace

 

 

 

Nature is my Teacher

Posted on by Rebecca C.

“Come forth into the light of things, let nature be your teacher” William Wordsworth

I cannot think of any words that ring truer for me. I have learned a lot about wildlife and nature through my viewfinder. I am not just talking about the research. I think the research of a subject of my photo is important. I want to get the facts as accurate as possible. I referring to the overall lessons I learn just by trying to get the best photo possible.

I have learned patience in trying to get the best photograph at a moment’s notice. Wildlife does not get the concept of retakes. I either get the photo in the instance or not at all.

I have learned to always be prepared. When walking around outdoors, you must be prepared. I have gotten chances to get one photo before the subject is gone. If you do not have a camera at the ready, you will not get the photo.

I have learned animals are characters. I am convinced that many wild animals deliberately turn their backside at me when I am trying to get the perfect photo. I also think certain birds get annoyed with the clicking of my camera.

I have learned that not all animals are afraid of you. The old saying, they are more afraid of you than you are of them is not true. I find this true with raccoons. I love these pesky little creatures. The other night I walked out on to my front porch; my cat kept looking upwards. I really did not think much of it. The sky was brightly lit with moon light. I just figured she was watching bats flying around or bugs. But that was not the case; she was actually watching the raccoon hang upside down from my porch roof. If I had been a couple more steps in his direction, he could have touched my hair. And trust me, the phrase “screaming like a girl” would have taking on a whole new meaning.

Oh well, I enjoy my country life. Listening to the frogs and crickets at night aid me in falling asleep; I would not have it any other way.

Until next time…peace.

 

 

May Ray Day

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Today, May 19th is considered to be May Ray Day. I had to research this “unofficial” holiday. I had never heard of May Ray Day. The purpose of celebrating the day is to get people outdoors and enjoy the sun rays. I love the idea of having an excuse just to go outdoors. For those who know me, I am advocate for unplugging and spending a little time outside each day.

Here in Michigan, the weather is not “May Ray” Day friendly. Yesterday, was warm and in the mid-eighties. Today is 20 degrees colder, cloudy, windy, and threatening rain. The weather outdoors is just gloomy all over.

At least, the upcoming Memorial weekend looks to be better which is good. Holiday weekends bring a lot of tourist travel to the entire state boosting the economy. I like the idea of families spending time together, getting outdoors and having fun.

Until next time….peace

Dandelion: Weed or Flower?

Posted on by Rebecca C.

when you look at a dandelion, what do you see? A pretty little yellow flower? Or a pesky weed? Obviously, I see a pretty little flower. I cannot help but see the beauty in the small little yellow flowers. When I finally see them growing out in my yard, I can safely say that the Michigan winter is official behind me. And Spring has finally been issued in.

When I was young, I would play outdoors for hours at a time. I would make crowns out of dandelions for myself, my dolls, and if my cat was being cooperative, he would get one too. Trust me, he did not always get one. Poor old “Sambo”, he was dressed up in numerous doll clothes over his life span.

Now that I am older (notice I did not say maturer), I love seeing the little yellow flower. In my grandfather’s belongings, I came across an old handwritten recipe for dandelion wine. My mother informed me that “under no circumstances do I try that old fool’s recipe” (Yes that is her father).  Of course the warning just make me want to try the recipe that much more. I did some research, dandelions have been used in all types of recipes including wine, jelly, and in salads.

Depending on the location, the dandelion’s flower head can vary in color from bright yellow to a deep orange. The dandelion flowering head is made up of hundreds of little smaller florets almost in a rosette formation.

When the dandelion finishes shining brightly, the flower head dries out showing the seeds for new life. The seeds are dispersed by a gently breeze.  Or when you blow on the flower to a make a wish.

So, next time you see a dandelion that has gone to seed; make a good magical wish.

Until next time…peace

 

Beautiful Evening

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Tonight’s sun set was beautiful. I just wished the mosquitoes had not come out so quickly. Ugh!  Oh well… I hope everyone had a great day.  The next few days here in Michigan are suppose to be warm but a chance of rain.

At least, there’s no snow in the forecast. I always find rainy days to be inspiring.

Until next time…peace.

Dryad’s Saddle: A Fascinating Fungus

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Spending time in the woods is my way of relaxing. One of my favorite aspects in nature to photograph is fungus. I love to photograph mushrooms; they just amaze me. Walking through the woods the other day I came across the beginning sprouts of a Dryad’s Saddle.

The Dryad’s Saddle is a fungus. The correct terminology for the Dryad’s Saddle is a Polyporus squamosus. The fungus has also been referred to as the Pheasant’s Back mushroom due to the appearance resembling a pheasant. (Personally, I do not see the comparison).

The word Dryad actually has a root in Greek mythology. As the myth goes, the Dryads could actually ride the mushroom. The shy, legendary Dryad is a female tree nymph or tree spirit; the supernatural being is tied to their tree homes. As a writer, I love when fungus or other aspects of nature has a connection with old myths or folklores. My imagination can run wild with these types of descriptions.

The Dryad’s Saddle mushroom will grow in dead logs or tree stumps. The fungus usually is connected at the base or inside an indentation in the tree. However, others have been spotted right on the ground. The ones on the ground are usually a single mushroom. The Dryad’s Saddle is a common sight throughout North America, Asia, Europe, and Australia.  I am amazed that this fungus is known throughout the world, not just here in Michigan. The first description of the Dryad’s Saddle was by William Hudson who was a British botanist dates back to 1778,

The body of the Dryad’s Saddle when fully grown can bracket outward into almost tiers. The tiers are close together and start out as thick, short tubes. The tiers have squamules which are like scales on the top layer of the mushroom. Depending on the area, the colors can vary from white, cream or yellowish.

Dryad's Saddle

(Fully grown Dryad’s Saddle from last summer).

As the Dryad’s Saddle continue to grow the upper body can expand out to approximately 20 inches. The Dryad’s Saddle is an edible mushroom. I have not tried to eat this type of mushroom. I tend not to cook anything unless I know exactly what I am doing. Yes, I fear food poisoning.

So the next time, you are wandering through the woods look around for a Dryad’s Saddle. The beautiful mushroom may actually be ridden in on a tree nymph.

Until next time…peace.

Things I Learned On My Hike Today

Posted on by Rebecca C.

I love being outdoors; wandering around in the wooded areas has always been one of my favorite activities. So, here are some things I learned on my hike today.

1. In the back area, the Maple River breaks off into smaller creeks. One of these creeks are located on the back property. I love going down there to photograph wildlife.  Jumping over the small opening that leads to the creek was a lot easier when I was sixteen. I made the jump for the most part; I just got stuck in the mud. Oh well, my boots can handle it. I wouldn’t expect anything less for springtime in Michigan.

The Creek

  1. The smallest little creatures can cause me to jump if I am not paying attention to the trail. Yes, this tiny frog about gave me heart failure.

Frog in the Trail

  1. The flowers popping up all over on the dull, muddy grounds are a welcome sight. The small beauties stand tall against the last remnants of winter.

Wild Flowers

  1. The most unusual places can provide the biggest inspiration. I admit there are days where I could just spend hours sitting in the middle of the woods. (I need to remember to carry a note pad with me.) Being outdoors is good for my creative soul.

A Place in the Woods

  1. The snakes are out. I am not really afraid of snakes especially this harmless Garter snake. But I am concerned I will accidently come across one that is just “not nice”. Growing I was always told about poisonous snakes, I think the stories are always in the back of mind. The only snake in Michigan that is poisonous is the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake. Or commonly known as the Michigan rattler is known to be a rare sight. But they do like the wetlands and the wooded areas which is where I frequent. I have never come across one in the wild.

Garter Snake Garter Snake

  1. I came across this wonderful pair of Canadian Geese who were not happy with my presence. They were both very vocal. I am assuming she had a nest nearby; I didn’t want to disturb her too much.

b2

  1. Even in the muddiest water, there are signs of life.

Snail

I hope everyone had a chance to get out and enjoy the sun today. Now, the sky is beginning to cloud over; there’s a 90% chance of rain for the overnight. So, I am glad I was able to get out for a couple of hours. I can fill the rainy days with writing.

Until next time….peace

What’s the Sparrow Watching?

Posted on by Rebecca C.

I was out taking photos early this evening. Being a cool Michigan day, I did not see a lot of wildlife moving around. So, I decided to spend time photographing the various birds that come to my feeder on a daily basis.

The Sparrows this evening drew my attention immediately. The little birds were all lined up on top of my feeder bar which holds various feeders, suet, etc. I could not see what the Sparrows were watching.  Yet, they would move their heads from one side to another. Of course, I just began snapping photos while I watched them.  I was instantly intrigued.

Once I was able to view the photos on my computer screen, I realized the Sparrows were actually watching little bugs. From where I was standing, there was no way for me to see the little bugs flying around them. I cannot tell you the type of bugs.  I barely can see them in the photo.  I just found the situation interesting.

I guess, you need a long lens and a computer scree to get a “bird’s eye view”.

Until next time…peace…

Go Birding Day

Posted on by Rebecca C.

Today, April 25, 2015 is “Go Birding Day”. Other wards, the entire day is dedicated to watching our fine feathered friends. I am an avid bird watcher. I never started out as one; bird watching is form of recreation. Recreation is all about finding an activity to while not at work or meeting any other responsibility that seems to full our daily lives.

Over the last two years, I really have begun to enjoy all aspects of  bird watching. I never thought I would be the person who would actually go searching for a particular bird to view and photograph. My area in Michigan had a wet start with lots of standing water which brought a lot of new birds to my area. I have always enjoyed being outdoors and photographing wildlife; bird watching was just a new component of this activity.   Bird watching is also an activity that my mother can join.

Equipment Needed for Bird Watching

The great thing about bird watching is that the type of equipment you invest in is up to you.  You can simply take a walk through your local park or hiking trail and try to figure out which little featured creature is making chirping noises in your direction.  Or if you really want to get into the activity you can buy expensive spotting scopes.

These are the items that I take with me:

  • A pair of binoculars
  • My camera which actually travels everywhere with me.
  • a field guide (I know a lot of people use apps which is great, but mom and I like looking at the book to see what species we are viewing.)
  • Pencil and notepad (I take this along to jot notes; I use a lot of my experiences for writing and I want to remember everything that I view).
  • Water (I have recyclable container that hooks to my camera bag. It is important to stay hydrated while out walking around especially if you are in a wooded area).
  • Cell phone (I turn mine on silent while I am out walking. Accidents can happen; a slip and fall can ruin your hike. A cell phone is just extra precaution in case of emergency).

Know the Area

I am fortunate.  I live in a rural area which is surrounded by wetlands along side the Maple River; the common Michigan river flats are all around me.  I spend a lot of time on the back property where I can view numerous birds and other wildlife.  But I do like to venture out into other trails and preserves.  When I am getting ready to go to a new trail, I download the map either to paper form to have with me or to my phone.  I know a lot of the trails are marked, but I like the extra precaution.

Safety

Remember to wear appropriate clothing and footwear.  The trails can be long; you want to make certain that you are comfortably dressed.  Also, obey the signs; the signs are there for your safety.

These are only a few aspects of bird watching. Have fun and be safe as you look for that rare species which only turns up doing summer months when the birds migrate back to the area.

 

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