“When the sun has set, no candle can replace it.”
― George R.R. Martin
I love sunsets. The different colors just paint the world good night.
Until next time…peace
Sunset After the Rain
Bridgeville Beauties: Burdock
Growing up to five feet tall, Burdocks are another oddly beautiful plant. Most people pull the “weed” from their yards. I leave the plant just to watch the slow blooms occur. I love the purple flowers with the little spiny white ends.
Of course, the bees find the Burdocks very tasty. Honey bees and other insects love the pollen from the Burdock. I find any plant that attracts Honey Bees a valuable asset to my yard.
The next time you see a Burdock, do no think of the plant as a weed, instead consider how much the bees love and need the vegetation to survive. From my research, I read the Burdock is actually a medical herb. I might have to be brave and try the Burdock Root Tea.
Until next time…peace
Bridgeville Beauties: Hickory Tussock Moth Caterpillar
White with black markings, the Hickory Tussock Moth Caterpillar stands out against the green foliage. Slowly moving along the underside of the leaf, the caterpillar seemed to avoid detection from passing predators.
Researching the spiked tuft caterpillar was interesting. Many people have allergic reactions due to the hair like spikes. My grandfather used to say “if you are dumb enough to pick it up then it’s your own fault.” I still take this advice to heart when I am out in the woods. I am really cautious as I photograph insects and wildlife in general.
Until next time…peace
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”.
Until next time…peace
Photographing Bees…
An earlier conversation…
A friend asked, “What are you doing?”
My response, “Photographing bees.”
“No, seriously, what are you doing?”
“Photographing bees.”
Off from my porch, I have a Burdock plant in bloom. I know most people wonder why I let the “weed” grows so close to my house. The answer is simple. Photographing bees.
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!
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
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
National Love a Tree Day
Today is National Love a Tree Day. What can I say, the beauty of trees speak to my soul.
Until next time….peace
World Wildlife Day
Today, March 3, 2018, is World Wildlife Day. For me celebrating the day is simple…go outdoors. Stepping outside in the Michigan sun, I can hear the Sandhills Cranes and Canadian Geese in the distance. Their arrival reminds me Spring is on the way.
I can view the birds at my feeders. Each second, I am in nature reminds me of the importance of our wildlife.
So, I hope you were able to step outside and view Mother Nature at her best. If not there’s always tomorrow or consider watching a DVD on wildlife. One of my favorites is the Blue Planet series.
Happy World Wildlife Day!
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
