tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49843986397756231312012-02-02T15:55:23.837-04:00Portraits of our Natural WorldKaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.comBlogger1811100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-7557720939500504292012-02-01T18:54:00.002-04:002012-02-01T18:56:33.822-04:00

Yes, indeed, the Nature Gods are smiling down upon us,with yet another long anticipated field guidethat bridges a gap. Dragonflies and Damselflies of the East (Princeton Field Guides)by Dennis Paulson  And the good news doesn't stop there,because Dennis and the Princeton University Press have also published the companion volume (drum roll, please)  Dragonflies and Damselflies of the West (

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-12476159650776516412012-01-31T13:39:00.003-04:002012-02-01T23:48:48.477-04:00

It has been brought to my attention, by a very sweet and caring nurse, that the babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at the Brooke Army Medical Center (BMAC), located at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, need blankets.  Home-made blankets.  Blankets made with love. Ordinarily, I would prepare a few during the course of building my other projects, probably setting them up as a Leader/Ender

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-91720294846048101102012-01-28T01:03:00.003-04:002012-01-28T01:09:41.723-04:00

In a previous post, I shared a camping experience,but had no photos to taunt you with.After reading my blog,The Ranger was kind enough to access his archived photos,and send along a few.I'd like to share them with you now. Early morning mist. Such serentity.  The lake is to the right, the ocean, out of sight, is to the left, thus, a barrier beach. The Leach's Storm-Petrels must have been

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-43811371666650153312012-01-26T10:37:00.003-04:002012-01-26T11:08:02.996-04:00

There is the most delightful pincushion parade at Love, Laugh, Quilt, and I just couldn't resist joining in!  (Oops! I'm a day late and a dollar short!  The linky is closed!)   Regular readers of my blog know I don't often post about my crafting adventures! Inspired by Loft Creations and Stephanie's 'oh, so much fun to make' Ladyfingers and Sugar Baby Purse pattern, I woke one morning with

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-6848566442413692702012-01-25T15:35:00.001-04:002012-01-25T15:36:47.025-04:00

The ocean.  Regarded by many as the last frontier.  Perhaps that’s why I’m drawn to it so much.  When I was a young adult, I was an avid scuba diver. Now, I prefer to skim along the surface in my kayak, or walk along the water‘s edge, enjoying it’s always changing majesty. The air is fresh and clean. There are no ringing telephones, no shopping malls, no traffic or honking horns.  But there

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-79192466960468129882012-01-21T17:58:00.000-04:002012-01-21T17:58:31.616-04:00

...who's the fairest one of all? 

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-83130383940548385752012-01-12T22:41:00.001-04:002012-01-13T05:18:57.346-04:00

...against a clear blue sky. Quercus spp. As a northeasterner, when I think of an evergreen,I think of pine, spruce, and fir trees.But here in Texas,they have Live Oak trees. And they are beautiful. I saw this quote on the header of a wonderful blog,In the Sonoran Sun, which I visited today. Perhaps because I'm here, exposed to the interminable sprawl of a cement city,a landscape I'm so

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-42168321912067992742012-01-11T12:52:00.000-04:002012-01-11T12:52:03.705-04:00

It is with great delight that I have returnedto TX to spend time with my daughterand escape the ravages of a northeast winter. Sadly, land surrounding the citiesis being eaten up by cement,like oozing molten lava. But there are still pretty country scenes,typical Texas-style. This gorgeous property is for sale, soon to be swallowed up  by encroaching development.  This scene brings back

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-18605237994524767002012-01-05T10:46:00.000-04:002012-01-05T10:46:54.196-04:00

I interrupt this nature blogto introduce a month of fun, scrappy quilt projectssponsored by It's already begun,so hurry over to Jodi's siteand catch up!There's something for everyone every day of the week!  

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-48945260805632831562011-12-30T11:21:00.001-04:002011-12-30T11:21:00.679-04:00

Egypt Falls Cape Breton, Nova Scotia It has been my pleasure to visit blogs of every color,from birds and nature, to quilts and crafts, to poetry and photography. I've made some special friends along this journey. I have been inspired and motivated by each and every one.Perhaps that's why I've been too distracted to post on my own blog! Happy New Year to you all,and a great big heartfelt

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-70500320667775630992011-12-23T12:48:00.000-04:002011-12-23T12:48:12.062-04:00

Merry Christmas!I hope everyone can look forwardto a happy, healthy New Year. ~karen

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-35755671741030897402011-12-06T18:27:00.002-04:002011-12-10T08:59:26.496-04:00

I migrate, like the birds, and am sometimes difficult to keep track of.  This book was waiting for me at my Maine location when I arrived today, having missed me in the spring by just a few days.  Since it was published in July,  I have taken the liberty of copying and pasting the review directly from the Princeton University Press, so as not to waste any more time!!  Someone you know might just

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-37053609001110269722011-11-23T10:57:00.000-04:002011-11-23T10:57:59.094-04:00

Baltimore Oriole    (Icterus galbula)    This species is not a common visitor to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia,but more and more are reported every year. I had a surprise when I looked out the windowMonday morning. A juvenile male.Isn't he sweet? It's pretty late in the season to be hosting orioles.When I contacted Blake Maybank, one of Nova Scotia's leading birders,he sadly informed me that this

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-51235281001899132172011-11-13T08:39:00.000-04:002011-11-13T08:39:26.494-04:00

A huge thank you to everyone who participatedin this give-away,and especially to those of you who took the extra timeto visit Kim's on-line storeto have a peek at her other wonderful patterns. Having give-aways is lots of fun becauseit gives me an opportunity to become acquaintedwith other very talented people I've not yet discovered.I've enjoyed visiting each and every new-to-me blog! And now...

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-38418121054770046122011-11-11T08:00:00.003-04:002011-11-11T15:59:46.853-04:00

Well, maybe not cocoa puffs, but big, fuzzy caterpillars would be a nice tasty treat!! The elusive Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus)made several rare appearances in the Northeast and Atlantic Maritimes this fall, delighting many birdersin my neck of the woods. Negotiating a seldom used, overgrown dirt roadto access a beautiful stretch of beach and bogland,we came across this little

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-12513981256044187002011-11-05T07:05:00.001-03:002011-11-13T08:21:39.889-04:00

Great Blue Herons and Kingfishers are common summer residents in the Atlantic Maritimes, and as you saw in a previous post Kim, from The Harbour Quilt Company in Antigonish, Nova Scotia has captured their beauty and elegance in one of her quilted wallhangings. Kim has graciously offered to sponsor a give-awayof this very pattern! You guessed it!!  It's my personal favorite,one of Kim's very

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com82tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-41547183258537800102011-10-26T07:21:00.000-03:002011-10-26T07:21:29.770-03:00

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-19868077451456699072011-10-25T06:31:00.001-03:002011-12-06T17:39:40.559-04:00

Princeton University Press is celebrating their new facebook page for birds and all other things in nature by giving away posters and signed copies of The Crossley ID Guide. Richard Crossley has now spoken at well over 20 societies and groups, but if you missed your chance to get a signed copy at one of those events, this is a great opportunity. On Halloween, they will give away two different

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-44041793657343745462011-10-04T08:28:00.002-03:002011-10-04T10:34:25.079-03:00

Dawn at Sweet as Cinnamon has such imagination!  She wants to know how we came to name our blogs!! A few years ago, I was wintering in Maine with my sister, The Fern Lady.  A grad student, a mom and wife, and employed part-time, she was a very busy girl.  I was learning the names of plants and making cards from the pictures she had taken over the years, and driving her crazy!  So, she decided

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-46875823922781547872011-09-29T18:10:00.001-03:002011-09-30T15:19:37.844-03:00

Kim, from The Harbour Quilt Company in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, has designed some amazing quilted wallhangings.  I couldn't take my eyes off of this one!!And it's haunting me, now,so I'll have to make another trip to her storeto purchase the pattern and fabrics! Here are a few others:  Nature isn't her only theme!  I had a difficult time resisting herseasonal table runner kits, too. Why

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-53328923465486933372011-09-19T07:21:00.000-03:002011-09-19T07:21:23.993-03:00

High atop Monkey Rock at Baleine Peninsula, one of the properties Nova Scotia is considering declaring a protected area, while observing migrating whimbrels feeding on the crowberry barrens,I decided to explore. Resting on top of a rock pillar that was split apart from the rest of this massive boulder was the most interesting 'owl pellet'.  When I spotted it through my binoculars, my

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-31134658831128301002011-09-08T08:06:00.000-03:002011-09-08T08:06:36.116-03:00

And my favorite bird to observe is the Whimbrel.  I feel honored to be in such a place as this, where I can sit at my sewing machine with the sliding glass door open and hear them pass over to the point near my house where they feed. They feed in flocks and do not allow you to get very close.  However, here are a few pictures from a distance and zoomed in.  Here is the sentinel, poised atop a

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-30990887657203747472011-09-06T07:01:00.002-03:002011-09-06T07:22:29.530-03:00

Bastrop, Texas, a small community SE of Austin, is among the latest towns to fall prey to wildfires.  The Quilt Haus of New Braunfels, together with Project Linus, has already put out the word for quilts.  This from their most recent newletter, dated in the wee hours of this very morning: Project Linus Call for BLANKETS for BASTROPOur Project Linus chapter is one of the closest to the Bastrop

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-76173511936603795462011-09-04T08:11:00.000-03:002011-09-04T08:11:49.343-03:00

Species at Risk The Wood Turtle, (Glyptemys insculpta) can be found primarily in forestry and agriculture areas. In some areas, the wood turtle is commonly called "red legs" because the back of the legs vary in colour from bright orange to red. The underside of the neck and tail are also orange to red. It lives mostly in the northeastern mainland and the River Inhabitants in southeastern

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-73430600660923812742011-08-02T08:59:00.000-03:002011-08-02T08:59:10.572-03:00

Keeping a Nature JournalDiscover a Whole New Way ofSeeing the World Around Youby Clare Walker Leslie& Charles E. Roth I picked up this book as incentive to startto draw in my journal(s).My sister, The Fern Lady, was born withthe creative genes in the family.She can draw, she can play almost any musical instrument                            she puts her hands on, she can cook,

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-72875551384894374632011-07-21T14:35:00.004-03:002011-07-22T08:51:07.468-03:00

We were musing today about why, when we have so many Mourning Doves (Zenaida macroura), we never see babies.  It led me to look up Mourning Doves in one of my favorite books, Kenn Kaufman's, Lives of North American Birds. And I learned something I never knew before!One of my favorite things! Both the male and the female dove feed their babiespigeon milk.That's what I said!  Pigeon Milk!

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-67933884556046122122011-07-20T08:35:00.000-03:002011-07-20T08:35:04.112-03:00

Before I even go to the Random Number Generator, I'd like to thank Carrie for making this fun for me by posting it on her blog.  It gave me an opportunity to explore many new-to-me blogs and I've enjoyed visiting every one of them.  I had to make a separate list in order to insert Carrie's name inbetween commenters. And now for the drum roll, please......................    Carrie, You are the

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-67830521460814222702011-07-13T08:27:00.003-03:002011-07-20T07:00:18.125-03:00

AVIAN ARCHITECTUREHow Birds Design, Engineer, and Buildby Peter Goodfellow When Peter Goodfellow was growing up in England, he must have been one of those affectionately annoying little boys that asked a lot of questions, all the time. “How does this work?”, “Why does that happen?”, Where do you imagine that goes?”. And now, as an adult, Peter has taken that need for knowledge, that childlike

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-22240823814931045712011-07-10T06:36:00.002-03:002011-07-16T06:43:36.375-03:00

Friday dawned a gloriously sunny and calm day, perfect weather for a day trip to Albert Bridge, Nova Scotia. A quaint little community straddling the Mira River in the northeastern corner of Cape Breton, Albert Bridge boasted an overwhelming population of 159 in 2001. After a leisurely, scenic, 2 hour ride,my quilting friend and Iarrived at this quaint little church to find the doors opened

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-27105629499877523352011-07-04T06:19:00.001-03:002011-07-04T06:23:22.927-03:00

Pink-edged Sulpher(Colias interior) With a meadow full of blueberries, it's chief larval food, it's no surprise to see this northern butterfly fluttering about. 

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-84675882201775716552011-07-03T07:10:00.000-03:002011-07-03T07:10:22.775-03:00

YAY!!  Summertime finally arrived!!  Put on a happy face! Picking up trash from the beach! You never know what you'll find!

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-40959277831992698652011-06-26T12:43:00.000-03:002011-06-26T12:43:44.697-03:00

I'm a ""glass is half full" kind of girl, but this Cape Breton weather isn't even for the birds!  Cold, north winds continue to blow, and if the wind changes direction, it's coming off the water from the south and is just as cold!  I don't mind the rain; I DO mind the cold! It's great for "guilt-free marathon sewing! On the top, I have made a Sugar Baby bag designed by Stephanie at Loft

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-15821121521782369852011-06-15T19:53:00.003-03:002011-06-15T19:56:37.447-03:00

This, from Fons and Porter: Quilters Lose Everything in Tornado The Town and Country Quilters of Joplin, MO lost everything, including their homes, in a recent and devastating tornado. This quilting group is known for donating many of their quilts to local charities, and could use your help to get started again. They need all tools and supplies restocked because their storage house was also

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-19079852563471844952011-06-07T10:33:00.003-03:002011-06-08T16:22:45.765-03:00

HAWKS at a Distance by Jerry Liguori Circumstances while traveling, and inclement weather, have kept me from actively birding these past few months.  Literally, spring migrants came to me this year, as I had the good fortune to spend a few weeks in a delightful log cabin at the forest’s edge in central Maine.  It was only a matter of stepping out the front door, listening, and then searching

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-66301246449055153162011-06-02T16:24:00.001-03:002011-06-02T16:26:15.577-03:00

Spring weather did not follow me to Cape Breton, but I had a lovely ride upthrough central Maine to Caribou and beyond!! We happened across a very large flock of the ubiquitous Yellow-rumped Warblers (Dendroica coronata), feasting along the banks of a river, which afforded a great photo op! Generally, I'll take several pictures,hoping for one or two keepers,but this day, they were all good.

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-85253791192442041102011-06-01T15:01:00.018-03:002011-06-02T08:38:02.640-03:00

I posted this just a right about the time Blogger was having issues. It was removed and I thought it was lost, but here it is!! More Quilter's Helping Tornado Victims NEA Modern Quilt Guild in Huntsville Alabama will be sponsoring a quilt-a-thon to make quilts for the Tornado victims. They are looking for donations of finished quilts Lap sizes or larger, Quilt Tops or other quilting supplies

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-14538671930215398042011-06-01T07:28:00.003-03:002011-06-01T15:00:52.716-03:00

A message from The Quilt Show to all my quilting friends out there: Joplin, MO Guild Loses Everything The Town and Country Quilters Guild of Joplin, MO, is an active and vital source of charity quilts for the needy in the town of Joplin. Along with the loss of individual member's homes, the guild's "storage house" also was hit by last week's devastating tornado. Gone are all of the

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-78232006391527945352011-05-11T13:55:00.000-03:002011-05-11T13:55:34.357-03:00

Every couple of days I check to see if there are any quilters or quilting organizations who have taken on the responsibility of organizing help for the tornado victims.Happily, today, I was able to locate one effort. http://bamaboundquilts.blogspot.com/ Also, the Terre Haute chapter of Project Linus is collecting quilts for their area.You can contact them by e-mail:  ProjectLinusTerreHaute@

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-12210426243242292902011-05-10T10:16:00.002-03:002011-05-10T10:57:59.975-03:00

"Here I am....where are you?"  (Blue-headed Vireo) I've been slowly making my way up the east coast after spending the most delicious winter in Texas, and out of range of reliable internet most of the way.  Photo opportunities have been scarce, as I've mostly been visiting friends and family in city settings.  But now I am in Central Maine, staying in a log cabin at the forest's edge, and in

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-70537451501585957242011-04-06T12:02:00.002-03:002011-04-07T23:54:31.326-03:00

The last few days, I have made myself crazy trying to identify this female hummingbird, here in San Antonio (yes, I'm still in TX....long story). I believed it to be a Black-chinned Hummingbird, (Archilochus alexandri),  but they are almost identical to the Ruby-throated female. Sibley's said they pump their tails when hovering. Yes, she pumped her tail. And their bill is a little longer,

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-17792641032353228262011-03-28T11:44:00.001-03:002011-03-28T11:46:51.888-03:00

Gruene, Texas, (pronounced 'green'), est. 1845 by German immigrantsand known for its cotton production,  mercantile  remains a small Texas town boasting the sameTexas flavor that's portrayed in history books.   dance hall and saloon  As winter loosened it's grip, we took a road trip to this little, antiquated town, to wander the monthly Gruene Market Days,and enjoy the warm

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-74012591509078354472011-03-25T11:41:00.001-03:002011-03-25T11:44:17.399-03:00

Greater Roadrunner(Geococcyx californianus)aka "Californian Earth-cuckoo" Much to my delight, during my recent visit to my N. Texas 'hometown', I came across this fellow! The roadrunner is a terrestrial cuckoo.  I'm ashamed to admit that I didn't realize it was in the cuckoo family.I thought I'd never seen a cuckoo before. Adopted as the state bird of New Mexico in 1949,it is often referred to

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-40616771012041961182011-03-16T15:53:00.004-03:002011-03-16T15:58:55.325-03:00

Sadly, my winter visit with my daughter has come to an end.  She has been so very  accommodating, making sure I had my time in nature.  She claims that she is not a birder, but she is the best non-birder there is!  She spots them and hears them often before I do!  If I keep to the bigger birds, she'll remain engaged for hours.  She drove me down country roads, hiked trails, arranged for a cruise

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-38181294750718876372011-03-15T22:35:00.001-03:002011-03-15T22:39:17.439-03:00

Wordless Wednesday

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-2010174744688723272011-03-10T12:32:00.001-04:002011-03-10T12:33:32.906-04:00

It was a cold and frosty morning as we gathered at the old homestead for the 2 mile interpretive tour of Honey Creek, but the azure blue sky held promise of another beautiful day in the Hill Country. Honey Creek State Natural Area, originally a ranch owned by German immigrants in the mid-1800's, totals 2293.7 acres, lies approximately 30 miles north of San Antonio, and is accessible by a weekly

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-61019380540474879612011-03-09T16:11:00.002-04:002011-03-25T20:18:35.416-03:00

The neighbor's pear tree is in full bloom here in New Braunfels, TXand it is a magnet for butterflies. Monarch (Danaus plexippus) Spicebush Swallowtail (Pterourus troilus) Spicebush Swallowtail (Pterourus troilus) Proof to all my northern friends that spring is on it's way!!

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-73516333041168860212011-03-03T10:39:00.008-04:002011-03-04T10:06:24.845-04:00

Last July, when I reached 50 followers, I was so very excited. Never in my wildest imagination did I expect to reach 100. I'd like to show my appreciation by having a give-away to celebrate 100 followers and the coming of spring. Give-aways are fun because everyone likes to win.  It's only human nature!  I am pleased to have a brandy new copy of Bill Thompson, III'sThe Young Birder's Guide to

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-73575760167285967182011-03-02T17:33:00.008-04:002011-03-02T18:09:02.918-04:00

Thanks to the generousity of Workman Publishing, I have acquired an advanced copy of Richard Louv's new book, The Nature Principle,  (available for purchase May 10, 2011).It's no secret that I am a big fan of Richard's previous epochal book, The Last Child in the Woods, which has been translated into nine languages and published in thirteen countries.  Now, Richard goes one step further to show

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-26090021049320984292011-03-02T08:39:00.000-04:002011-03-02T08:39:13.966-04:00

More Wordless Wednesday

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-62296934143922235102011-02-23T09:09:00.000-04:002011-02-23T09:09:52.106-04:00

More Wordless Wednesday.

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-85874474917782139992011-02-17T17:18:00.001-04:002011-02-17T17:19:56.667-04:00

Ladybug Tote Bag a.k.a. Grandmother's Baga.k.a. Oak Park Bag The little ladybug has long been a favoriteamong artists and crafters because of it'sendearing cuteness and it's simplicity. Thanks to Stephanie at Loft Creations and herwonderful Oak Park Bag pattern, I have createda Grandmother's Bag which will be a hostess giftwhen my daughter and I visit with her best friend's mom.  (Here I am,

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-46750539632478079762011-02-15T22:37:00.000-04:002011-02-15T22:37:02.903-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-67434137992198160932011-02-14T15:46:00.000-04:002011-02-14T15:46:31.746-04:00

Texas FossilsGuadalupe River State Park Birds and armadillos weren't the onlyinteresting treasures at the state park.  gastropod  When I finally got my head out of the sky and looked down,I was amazed at what I saw embedded in the limestone.  This one looks like an amoeba.  Check out the size of this one compared to the Juniper Berry!  Fossil seeking consumed one whole

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-36491054485510422292011-02-12T18:06:00.001-04:002011-02-12T22:25:52.631-04:00

Panther CanyonNew Braunfels, TX This signage is located at the trailhead to Panther Canyon,explaining to visitors about the Edwards Aquifer. (And that's my daughter and I reflected in it's surface.)A 51 acre trail located along the Balcones Enscarpment,  ("The Balcones Escarpment is a geologic fault zone several miles wide consisting of several faultings, most of which both dip and are

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-81700020284203695782011-02-05T22:40:00.001-04:002011-02-06T16:46:47.951-04:00

Canyon Wren(Catherpes mexicanus) During my camping trip to Guadalupe River State Park, I was fortunate to observe several Canyon Wrens (check).This little fellow is a life bird for me! I felt pretty honored, as I realize that my locationwas on the very fringes  of their range,and I never expected to see one,let alone so many.But it was their preferred habitat ofcliffs and rock ledges. Another

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-20137116875684400882011-02-01T21:04:00.000-04:002011-02-01T21:04:00.472-04:00

Southern Maidenhair Fern(Adiantum capillus-veneris) During one of my many hikes along the Guadalupe RiverI found a game trail to wander along which led me through a magical section of limestone ledgesecreted away beneath the canopy of trees. Cheating just a little, I e-mailed the pictures to Little Sister, my own personal Fern Lady, who promptly identified the ferns as Southern Maidenhair

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-52814179571505179282011-01-29T12:30:00.003-04:002011-01-31T09:45:52.912-04:00

The Armadillo wasn't the only visitor to my campsite during my grand adventure.  Although the Yellow-rumped Warbler (Dendroica coronata) breeds on or near my property in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia and is a daily visitor, I was simply delighted to stroll into my site after an early morning hike to find ...... .....who was a curious about me as I was about him. Maybe this little guy recognized me

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-10259281850655574512011-01-28T12:12:00.010-04:002011-02-01T20:24:05.750-04:00

I have recently returned from a week long, internetless camping adventure at the Guadalupe River State Park.  Although the nights were below freezing and the days a little crisp, I enjoyed the time to myself in this amazing habitat.  I pretty much had the campground to myself, which, on moonless nights, got pretty spooky.  But I did meet a new friend. This very junior naturalist was visiting

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-14538434303143457642011-01-14T15:42:00.006-04:002011-02-04T20:22:19.774-04:00

Landa ParkNew Braunfels, TX Black Vultures (Coragyps atratus) soar through the skies above the Comal River as it flows quietly through Landa Park. Roosting on a small island right smack dab in the middle of the river,  the vultures share their space with cormorants, various waterfowl, and turtles.  There were also geese and Wood Ducks nestled in amongst the roots of the trees at the

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-51367743393237216442011-01-09T19:54:00.001-04:002011-01-09T19:56:57.209-04:00

My Little Helper, Monty To see more Camera Critters,click HERE!

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-59797011617448830752011-01-08T17:00:00.004-04:002011-02-01T20:46:47.260-04:00

Shortly after my arrival here in Texas, I couldn't resist taking advantage of a warm, winter afternoon in a new place and I headed off for a walk.  Moving along at quite a clip to get past the houses, I was looking all around me - oh, there's a bird; ooh, a Tiger Swallowtail.....when down I went. I'd twisted my ankle not once, but twice, and I could barely stagger over to the curb.  If someone

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-11288175633146813032011-01-02T23:19:00.004-04:002011-01-23T22:16:47.991-04:00

American Pipit(Anthus rubescens) Enjoying the warmth of a S. Texas afternoon, this lone arctic/alpine breederwas nonplussed by my presence.  I guess she figured if she stayed a fewsteps ahead of me, she'd be all right! Feeding on insects, she was comical to watch as she flitted around the matted, dried grasses, pumping her tail in perpetual motion.It was difficult to capture a clear picture

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-24395342098323374142010-12-31T12:29:00.000-04:002010-12-31T12:29:21.333-04:00

Leaving 2010... behind!  I finally got my picture of a Carolina Wren:) Happy New Year, everybody.Thanks for visiting and for inspiring me.Looking forward,karen

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-18504142937641135082010-12-25T10:56:00.000-04:002010-12-25T10:56:54.437-04:00

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-2450667511931424062010-12-23T11:07:00.007-04:002011-01-06T09:19:16.262-04:00

Tom has been located.  He is safe.  And, it turns out, a very fortunate young man.  Word is, he was assaulted near the border, robbed of everything he owned, including his car, and left unconscious.  He woke in a hospital in Mexico.  He is home with his family in Maine now, and recuperating from his ordeal.    Thanks to you all for your thoughts and prayers. Missing SonA Parent's Holiday

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-76474911881985307702010-12-22T15:42:00.000-04:002010-12-22T15:42:57.494-04:00

Loggerhead Shrike(Lanius ludovicianus) The Loggerhead Shrike is known in many areas as the "Butcher Bird" because it impales it's prey (large insects, lizards, and small birds) on barbed wire, fence posts, and thorny branches.Some believe this is because it lacks the strong talonsof the larger birds of prey.For a fine illlustration of this, check out this post on Bill of the Birds' blog.  And

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-28029718078555860332010-12-15T22:29:00.001-04:002010-12-16T10:35:11.676-04:00

Texas Leaf-cutter Ants(Atta texana) So enthralled with watching this army of ants at work, I only took this one picture of the pile of leaf pieces left outside the entrance to their tunnel.These ants were following the trail to home, carrying pieces of leaves that, as you can see here, were larger than the ants themselves.  It was quite a sight. When I looked them up, I was amazed at what I

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-35481895575839068902010-12-10T09:07:00.004-04:002010-12-16T19:16:37.042-04:00

Be very still. Is that what I think it is?? Yes, indeedy! Children at Play!One of most favorite things! "There is a real world, beyond the glass, for children who look, for those whose parents encourage them to truly see." Richard Louv, "Last Child in the Woods" And that reminds me to remind you of a couple of great books I've mentioned in the past that would make great Christmas gifts. 

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-40306380053994873402010-12-08T20:01:00.000-04:002010-12-08T20:01:02.104-04:00

I can't resist sharing this cake recipe with you.  "Some Oreo cookies and banana Runts make this birthday cake a real hoot."Parenting Magazine There are more adorable cakes of all kinds - animals, fairytales, insects, sports!

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-78191444524298618852010-12-05T10:51:00.006-04:002010-12-16T23:15:55.726-04:00

Saturday morning dawned gloriously warm and sunny, so we headed to Guadalupe River State Park to enjoy some safe outdoors time, escape the unnerving sprawl of the city, and to check it out as a possible winter camping destination while I am here visiting. Located in the Texas Hill Country, the park is comprised of 1938.7 acres along 4 miles of the Guadalupe River and is adjacent to the Honey

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-70976521040466876912010-11-28T09:33:00.001-04:002010-11-28T09:36:25.915-04:00

Mexican Hat Ratibida columnaris (Asteraceae) This 2 - 3 foot tall, robust, drought tolerant perennial is a variety that is native to the mid-west and has naturalized throughout North America. The characteristic black, cone-shaped heads are surrounded by drooping, fire-red ray flowers with a splash of yellow accent.  They bloom from June through September,but this lone flower waitied for meto

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-17224091807385352592010-11-23T11:53:00.007-04:002010-12-10T12:07:47.788-04:00

Hunting season really cramps my style.  I have to compensate by paying closer attention to what's going on in my own backyard.  This year I'm delighted to have a new backyard environment to nose around in while I am visiting my daughter in TX.  One just never knows who'll come for a visit!! Perhaps it might be a handsome Northern Mockingbird, the Texas State Bird, or a caterpillar that

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-10241424859691295422010-11-21T15:33:00.002-04:002010-12-16T23:22:01.704-04:00

How delightful to be in a new environment!  And how gracious this lovely Red Saddlebags (Tramea onusta) was to rest for a few minutes, giving me time to snap a few photos. While dallying at the water's edge, several of them flew up to me and checked me out, up and down, side to side, before continuing on their hunt for a tasty treat.  Just shy of 2" long, they seemed bigger in mid flight.  Red

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-55067853050364472732010-11-19T09:41:00.001-04:002010-11-21T23:57:12.859-04:00

Don't wait for the last minute to finish your Christmas shopping!  Here are the few books I've recommended in the past for you to consider when making your gift giving decisions. 

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-68274002854789056112010-11-14T10:43:00.004-04:002010-11-19T09:37:52.872-04:00

Little Blue Heron(Egretta caerulea) I accompanied my daughter to work on Wednesday, confident I could amuse myself while she toiled at her job.  Much to my delight, there is a trail behind the college that circles a small pond.  As I quietly made my way along the well-worn path, watching and waiting, listening for anything and everything, I spotted this little head. Freezing on the spot, I

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-52915006441538975162010-11-11T22:26:00.001-04:002010-11-11T22:30:30.381-04:00

My journey to Texas was underway as my plane departed Logan Airport in Boston under rainy skies.  The majority of the ride was spent cruising above a solid carpet of clouds.As we crossed the miles along our westward path, the clouds began breakingup little by little, until there were only tiny wisps to be seen here and there. I flew Southwest Airlines and it was a pleasurable experience, smooth

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-49190759500498499422010-11-04T20:18:00.003-03:002011-05-08T08:15:26.072-03:00

It's that time of year again to take my cue from my feathered friends and migrate south for the winter .  Tomorrow I journey from New England to San Antonio, TX to sponge off  visit my daughter for a few months.  Heaven forbid I don't have something to keep my little hands busy!  Luckily, there are many sewing projects that are perfect for travel, and hexies are my first choice to occupy my

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-30184478297297510222010-10-31T01:19:00.003-03:002010-11-02T17:05:53.273-03:00

I had the pleasure of attending a performance this evening at Stage Right Studio by a Massachusetts family who is dear to my heart.  I was blown away.  I'd like to take this opportunity to introduce to you The Flynns.  I hope you enjoy the performance. I have been an honorary member of this family since birth.  My mother was best friends with their mother/grandmother.  But, as a young adult, I

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-5839120545014974512010-10-28T08:08:00.001-03:002010-10-28T08:09:16.082-03:00

Sometimes, life just gets in the way, repressing inspiration, inhibiting motivation,  until one comes upon a scene such as this.  "Play, Incorporating Animistic and Magical Thinking Is Important Because It:Fosters the healthy, creative and emotional growth of a child;Forms the best foundation for later intellectual growth.Provides a way in which children get to know the world and creates

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-64745881627103828872010-10-19T08:42:00.006-03:002010-10-30T08:38:33.928-03:00

Today, at Wren's site, I became aware of a program to assist children with the financial burden of their classroom projects.  As a former educator, I can appreciate the efforts of this website, http://www.donorschoose.org/, and applaud, not only their goals, but the ease in which they are making it possible for children to gain access to hands-on knowledge across the learning spectrum. The

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-81472296482113098152010-09-28T17:16:00.003-03:002010-10-02T08:08:39.176-03:00

The forecast calls for more rain the next four days. Since Hurricane Earl passed through, our late summer/early fall weather has been unseasonably disappointing.  What few days that the weather has been merely passable have been spent mowing the lawn, splitting and stacking wood for the winter, and putting the gardens to bed.  There has been no hiking or paddling going on. The not so nice days?

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-90411317229929289392010-09-07T18:55:00.004-03:002010-09-08T09:52:49.218-03:00

Photos compliments of The Ranger This area, a low wetland, was flooded by a beaver's dam, therefore, over time, killing all the trees.

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-17959232377162329362010-09-03T17:07:00.000-03:002010-09-03T17:07:46.562-03:00

Looking Out Over the Meadow What do YOU see? There are lots more SkyWatch Friday from photos"from all over the planet",and you can see them by clicking HERE!

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-89172102793042210712010-09-02T08:14:00.003-03:002010-09-02T08:31:46.039-03:00

Prince Edward Island An oasis of gentle beauty. Finally called my name after 8 years of living in the maritimes.My journey began as a walk-on on the ferry from Pictou, NS. Encumbered with luggage, I anchored myself to one spot for the1.25 hour journey across theNorthumberland Strait. A distant lighthouse came into view, as I watchedthe Northern Gannets dive for their lunchtime snack. A bouy

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-77711701864300926152010-09-02T07:27:00.000-03:002010-09-02T07:27:33.799-03:00

My favorite time of day. This is what I see when I look out my window.The eagle is a resident.It's pretty much a given that he'll be out there, somewhere,on the causeway leading to the little island out front(a little of it's shoreline seen in the background),or perched on his favorite treetopacross the harbor. I'm a lucky girl.

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-42623720163017723472010-08-28T13:12:00.002-03:002010-08-29T07:45:28.607-03:00

Check out THIS bad girl, hanging out on the leaves of Little Sister's beans! A very nice person at BugGuide.net identified it for me as a Pelecinid Wasp(Pelecinus polyturator) Common during the late summer in New England, males are rare as the female doesn't require their services to reproduce.I think they would be a welcomed visitor becausethey are parasitoids that lay their eggs directly into

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-81996954708451953762010-08-23T09:46:00.001-03:002010-08-23T09:53:42.463-03:00

Friend's Folly FarmMonmouth, Maine From this: To this: Makes me want to knit!

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-77660181596544926292010-08-18T10:31:00.000-03:002010-08-18T10:31:44.881-03:00

Imagine my delight when I was wandering around my brother-in-law's amazing flower garden while visitiing in Maine, and not one, but four, Hummingbird Clearwing Moths, of the Sphynx (or Hawk) Moth family, were enjoying lunchtime around his phlox!  I was transfixed, spending at least an hour trying to capture at least one good photograph for my picture files!  I stepped right up to the phlox

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-82344544805952796282010-08-06T08:13:00.002-03:002010-08-06T08:42:44.871-03:00

What would you do today if you knew beyond a doubt that you would not fail?

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-18716827871235439922010-08-04T08:27:00.000-03:002010-08-04T08:27:25.328-03:00

Click here for more Wordless Wednesday entries!

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-53750778020152656672010-08-02T08:51:00.001-03:002010-08-02T11:57:51.609-03:00

Three-spot Horse Fly(Tababus trimaculatus)) Who's that behind those Foster Grants? This handsome fellow was lazily sunning himself on the railing of my front deck in Cape Breton, completely undaunted by my presence, unless I was sticking a camera lens in his face.  Then he'd just sigh and turn the other way.  I was being such a bother!  A good example of role reversal. Interesting fact about

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-35390749368120824312010-08-01T06:50:00.000-03:002010-08-01T06:50:53.998-03:00

Blogging has certainly opened up a whole new world for me, both as a student of nature and as a quilter/craftsperson.  Each and every one of the bloggers that come for a visit add something special to my day.  Some of you I've gotten to know over the last few years just from our comments back and forth!  Many mornings, I can't wait to boot up my computer and visit my favorite blogs.  I have

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-27631817867252800252010-07-30T06:59:00.000-03:002010-07-30T06:59:57.122-03:00

Towering Cumulus cumulus:  meteorological use for "rounded mass of clouds" first attested 1803. The sky is amazing, always changing, very telling,and you can see more skiesby clicking HERE!

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-70945952894877154122010-07-15T07:13:00.000-03:002010-07-15T07:13:55.434-03:00

Nestled among the rocks and low growing plants of the alpine and boreal regions of the continent, Reindeer Moss (Cladina rangiferina) peeks out through the greens and browns with its frosty white, bubbly-like mounds. Upon closer inspection, it's hardly bubble-like at all and is a silvery grey-green color!  Reindeer Moss is actually a lichen that can be found growing as far south as Florida,

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-64782642193060727062010-07-12T14:15:00.001-03:002010-07-12T15:30:30.837-03:00

I've wanted to have a give-away for some time now.  The quilt and stitchery blogs I follow have give-aways all the time, so why not have one on a nature blog?   Exactly!!  Why not?  I am so appreciative of everyone who comes to visit!  Every comment on every post for the whole month of July will be entered into the random generator, and the comment-er that is chosen will recieve: a set of six

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-77711208500199791792010-07-11T10:38:00.002-03:002010-07-12T13:19:54.060-03:00

I recently gave a guided walk through a portion of our Eco Trail to a small group of city folks. Accompanying me was a typcally over-active young boy who displayed his sense of adventure by romping, and climbing, and racing back and forth along the trail...... ......until we got to the bog.   I was only too glad to spend some quality time with this young lad once I'd sparked his sense of wonder

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-37388900613941543722010-07-09T17:17:00.000-03:002010-07-09T17:17:57.357-03:00

Never having much success sewing on a curve, I came across the directions for a Glorified Nine Patch in the March/April 2008 Fons & Porter's Love of Quilting magazine. Thinking that this curve, being on a larger scale, might not be so difficult,I flagged it for 'someday', and that someday is now! Alone, it makes a sweet table topper, (or a single sad and lonely placemat),but why stop there?

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-27212797236874551452010-07-07T16:25:00.000-03:002010-07-07T16:25:53.113-03:00

"The important thing about wilderness, any wilderness, is the effect it has on the human spirit.  Hiking a wilderness beach is different from hiking a resort beach, or even a national seashore beach where development is held to a minimum.  It has to do, I think, with the great value of seclusion, with places that are wild and remote and provide the illusion, if only for a few hours or a few days

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-41954778000519737402010-07-07T08:58:00.002-03:002010-07-07T12:36:10.984-03:00

American Robin(Turdus migratorius) Be sure to check out other Wordless Wednesday posts!!

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4984398639775623131.post-975383845866372182010-07-05T16:09:00.003-03:002010-07-07T09:13:45.435-03:00

Judith at Creative Studio is hosting this fun Early Bird Christmas Crafting event, and this month we are to work on home decor.  Our assignment was to use our little Christmas journals that we made to list what we might like to see around our own homes, then to use this list as our guide when crafting for persons on our Christmas list. So, I made my list, then got to work.  Today's finish is a

KaHollyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02528677007819875856noreply@blogger.com7