Wartroot (or Wortroot) is a roughly 200 acre land trust in Scott County, Virginia, not far from Bristol. Wed Aug 20 08:56:19 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Creeks sink lower into the ground as the drought deepens. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Aug 15 09:59:08 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Two copperheads slithered into the yard from different directions in one evening. Despite what I've been told, they smelled nothing like cucumbers and instead stank strongly of skunk musk. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Aug 11 10:24:01 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The first goldenrod, cool days, and ripening pumpkins... * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jul 29 12:00:27 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A mink slipped across the floodplain on a dewy morning. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jul 27 16:11:36 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A woodland sunflower and prematurely dropped walnut remind me that summer heat will eventually end. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jul 12 13:54:07 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Tiny sourwood bells litter the ground. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jul 6 21:58:48 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The first blackberries ripen in the sun. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jul 6 21:58:18 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Dozens of bumblebees were attracted to the blooms on the big basswood at the edge of the yard. The mass of bees made a dull roar like a fan on low or like distant traffic noise --- unusual on our secluded farm. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Jun 27 08:19:10 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Dozens of bumblebees were attracted to the blooms on the big basswood at the edge of the yard. The mass of bees made a dull roar like a fan on low or like distant traffic noise --- unusual on our secluded farm. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Jun 16 10:13:00 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A mother turkey and her half grown chicks exploded into the air, flying off in two directions. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu May 29 08:00:28 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Remnants of leathery eggs are strewn around a three inch hole --- baby turtles have left the nest. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon May 19 20:35:38 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A robin grabbed a fat grub, added a wriggling worm, then flew out of the garden to feed her young. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Apr 28 13:37:20 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Leaves popped out on many trees this weekend, greening up the hillsides. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Apr 21 19:27:39 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The first wood thrushes of the spring grace the evening air with their flute-like songs. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Apr 14 12:32:45 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Dogwood Winter has arrived a little early, while the dogwood buds are just beginning to open. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Apr 7 09:58:51 EDT 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A spring flood sent bladdernut pods floating across the floodplain. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Feb 29 15:37:20 EST 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A flock of sparrows scratched through recently thawed ground in search of seeds. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Feb 15 09:47:15 EST 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: As they swam under a skim of ice, spotted salamander larvae looked like feathery-gilled tadpoles. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Feb 6 09:54:49 EST 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A warm spring rain crackles with thunder. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Jan 31 10:14:59 EST 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Wet skunk tracks dotted the far side of the foot bridge. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Jan 2 14:08:31 EST 2008 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A deep freeze has spread ice crystals further into the creek. Snow flurries drift onto frozen ground. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Dec 12 09:57:40 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Unseasonable warmth brought out a flurry of bird activity. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Dec 5 10:16:22 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The season's first snow dusted the ground. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Nov 30 09:16:33 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: An ice skim is forming on calm pools in the creek. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Nov 19 10:53:13 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A yellow-bellied sapsucker took leisurely sips from a well drilled tree. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Nov 7 09:26:45 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Halloween brought out the witches --- witch hazel, that is. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Nov 5 10:28:10 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A week of heavy frosts has turned fall into winter. Leaves crunch underfoot and most trees are bare. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Oct 15 12:35:41 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: One last hummingbird came to our Mexican sunflowers this afternoon. It ate and "ran", sprinting south before the frost. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Oct 13 20:19:37 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A pair of great blue herons flew in tandem down the valley. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Sep 30 10:36:42 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: After two cold nights, a winter wren appeared in the brush pile. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Sep 4 19:00:28 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Dropped butterfly wings By salty mud puddle's edge --- Praying mantis meal. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Aug 7 20:56:00 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A box turtle sunk deep into a cooling mud puddle. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Aug 6 20:56:43 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A hummingbird gathered jewelweed nectar. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Aug 5 15:46:14 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Each August morning so far has been cloaked in foggy silence. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jun 19 20:06:39 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The drought dried up all tadpole puddles. In a rejuvenating rain, tree frogs and toads trill again. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jun 3 08:23:04 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A hummingbird pollinated the snow peas. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu May 24 15:39:44 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The old bed of Sinking Creek is drying up into individual puddles. Our rainfall is already 9 inches below average for the year. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed May 9 16:09:11 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Blackberry flowers herald frost free days. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Apr 29 09:18:33 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The first lightning bugs sparked among tiny spring leaves. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Apr 17 19:52:08 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Insects clung to a yellow mandarin flower. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Apr 17 19:50:09 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Insects clung to a yellow mandarin flower. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Apr 9 16:34:56 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A hard freeze nipped the buckeye and spicebush leaves. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Apr 1 15:14:52 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Serviceberry and redbud are in full bloom. Aborted elm fruits litter the ground. And, here and there, box-elder and tulip-tree leaves are already poking out of their buds. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Mar 24 20:47:46 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Toads trill on a warm night. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Mar 14 20:19:15 EDT 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Three bats came out at dusk to eat the first spring mosquitoes. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Mar 8 17:12:52 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Wood frog eggs have swollen into gelatinous masses. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Feb 27 18:01:24 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Two hepatica flowers peeked open in the lee of a beech stump. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Feb 22 15:15:25 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A pair of wood ducks dropped quietly from the bank into the swollen creek. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Feb 21 20:13:01 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The ground has thawed and sap is rising. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Feb 14 11:08:00 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: During a February thaw, a Marbled Salamander came out to wander through the night. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Feb 7 17:52:10 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Mouse tracks were like pinpricks in the snow. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Feb 5 12:06:37 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Ice encroaches on the creek, starting at the edges and working its way in. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Feb 2 16:50:53 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: In a burst of massive wings, a Great Blue Heron exploded from the creek. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jan 16 11:27:45 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A walnut's trunk was wet with dripping sap from a sapsucker's holes. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jan 9 15:08:31 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A wet snow blanketed the woods in the morning, melted in the afternoon. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jan 2 20:14:42 EST 2007 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Wrens, sparrows, and towhees picked through a newly formed brushpile. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Dec 24 14:37:22 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Raccoon tracks line the muddy edge of a field between the corn stumps. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Dec 11 15:22:07 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: An unusual early December cold spell leaves snow flurries on the ground for days. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Nov 27 09:26:34 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Frost whitens the lowland fields but leaves the hillsides brown and bare. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Nov 17 09:56:05 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The tip-tops of the mountains are white. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Nov 13 09:21:43 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A Winter Wren puffs out its feathers and turns into a ball of fluff. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Nov 6 11:31:39 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Shorter days trick birds into thinking spring thoughts and singing. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Oct 30 09:46:21 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The hills are suddenly bare of leaves with only a patch of brown clad oaks here and there. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Oct 17 14:58:29 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Raking back the leaves, I disturbed a sluggish Slimy Salamander. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Oct 13 14:46:38 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: After the first killing frost, frozen, green walnut leaves fell to the ground. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Oct 2 11:16:17 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A jumping mouse nearly hopped into me as I sat silently in the woods. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Sep 30 09:50:18 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Acorns were falling so thick, I put up a hand to protect my head. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Sep 22 09:48:08 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A pair of cold feet and a Dark-eyed Junco --- the first of each this season. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Sep 18 09:10:03 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Green, half-eatend paw-paws litter the ground. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Sep 10 08:55:51 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A pair of hummingbirds took their last sip of jewelweed nectar before nightfall. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Sep 5 09:59:07 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A nine inch earthworm encircled by an orange-red ring crawled across the damp forest floor. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Sep 1 09:36:33 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: For two days, a slow, steady rain has fallen. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Aug 24 08:59:43 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: I rescued a praying mantis from my shopping cart, carefully carrying it outside in a plastic produce sack. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Aug 20 08:14:44 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The first goldenrod is blooming, heralding fall. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Aug 12 15:58:04 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A plump buckeye has fallen. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Aug 3 09:08:44 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The first yellow wingstem flowers open, heralding fall colors. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Jul 31 16:10:13 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: I walk out into a symphony of night insects. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Jul 26 09:14:34 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Dusty blue cohosh berries are ripening. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jul 18 20:27:38 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Dew dripped gently through moon-lit leaves. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jul 16 08:56:26 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: I flicked ticks off my arms, my legs, my shirt, my pants. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Jul 10 19:38:41 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A mother deer with two fawns walked across the field, only to be joined by eight leaping adults. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Jun 29 18:42:53 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A Cooper's Hawk eyed me silently from a high limb. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jun 24 11:16:24 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Fighting my way through a tangled mass of pipevine, I continuously plucked fat caterpillars off my sleeves. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Jun 12 14:47:29 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Quickly blinking fireflies looked like glitter falling through the treetops. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Jun 7 09:05:13 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: I waded through a sea of waist-high Wood Nettles. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Jun 2 13:30:22 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A fence lizard took up residence in our pile or rip-rap while we were gone. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu May 11 15:31:11 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A pipevine swallowtail fluttered around its host plant, fighting the breeze. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun May 7 16:37:13 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Low-lying clouds partially obscured the wet-leaved mountains. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri May 5 16:03:34 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A startled groundhog climbed ten feet up a tree before thinking better of it and heading for its hole. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Apr 27 09:03:34 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A luna moth sheltered from the rain under a narrow leaf. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Apr 21 15:39:15 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: More and more leaves were evident as we drove down off the mountain. By the time we reached South Carolina, most trees were green. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Apr 15 11:48:08 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Bits of bark were scattered forty feet away from a tree which had recently been struck by lightning. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Apr 10 19:38:11 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Turkey vulture shadows swing through the treetops. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Apr 5 21:32:36 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Migrants are flooding the woods. First I saw a tail-bobbing Louisiana Waterthrush by the creek, then I heard a vireo singing by the barn. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Apr 2 20:36:22 EDT 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: An Osprey overlooked the river above Eastman's processing plant. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Apr 1 19:15:43 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Spring Beauties and Spicebush are in full bloom. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Mar 26 08:37:36 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A Barred Owl turned its round face toward me, paused, then flew away on silent wings. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Mar 19 17:16:51 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A fox leapt over the fence, black paws followed by orange fur. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Mar 16 19:28:33 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Violets and pansies are blooming in the pasture. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Mar 14 16:59:14 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A snapping turtle demolished an entire cluster of wood frog eggs. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Mar 13 09:04:40 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Yesterday was the first spring appearance for many insects. Today is the day of the snail. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Mar 11 08:54:05 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The first stamens pushed out of red maple buds yesterday. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Mar 6 19:23:17 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Pale lime treetops hint at opening elm flowers. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Mar 2 08:16:11 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Clouds of pollen plume from the cedar trees. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Feb 28 08:48:35 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Gilled salamander larvae swam under the ice. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Feb 24 14:43:18 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A Great Blue Heron came in for a landing, long neck extended. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Feb 20 12:32:52 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: After a brisk walk, I could see my breath, but couldn't feel my toes. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Feb 17 20:23:02 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Pink-petaled raspberry blooms began to open then were nipped by the frost. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Feb 17 10:38:54 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A light dusting of snow on the ground, unusual for Seattle. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Feb 13 14:56:54 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The air is too cold to melt the snow off tree limbs. Instead, each breeze knocks a glittering drift of snow into the air. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Feb 13 08:25:25 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Daffodil leaves poke up through the snow. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Feb 9 08:46:28 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Tiny snowflakes drifted past the first robin song. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Feb 7 16:20:01 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: After a warm spell, multiflora rose leaves are pushing out of their buds. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jan 24 16:04:55 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Dueling Pileated Woodpecker calls echoed from the hillsides. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Jan 20 20:21:52 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Blooming bittercress was tricked by the January sun. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Jan 18 08:15:16 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Turkeys scuffed up dark patches of leaves through the snow. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Jan 13 16:02:39 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A storm came out of Kentucky, bringing rain. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jan 7 17:28:58 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: When startled, half of the flock of turkeys ran up the hill while the other half took flight. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jan 7 15:59:34 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The last patches of snow and ice are melting off the porch and tree trunks. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Jan 6 21:15:02 EST 2006 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The snow tempted a winter-drab Yellow-rumped Warbler to the feeder. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Dec 31 09:35:08 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: In Ohio, hundreds of geese flew from cornfield to pond to cornfield. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Dec 28 15:54:07 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Osage oranges rot into brain-like masses in the spring water. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Dec 23 20:39:10 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: After several cold days, the river is frozen over. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Dec 19 17:04:27 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A burst of yellow breasts materialized into six meadowlarks in the field. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Dec 19 08:50:54 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Leaves in a small gully were ankle-deep. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Dec 12 19:04:47 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Winter fungi are popping out of fallen trees. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Dec 9 11:12:04 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Gray-backed robins feeding on the lawn. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Dec 1 17:07:08 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Mast year---fat acorns underfoot, the squirrels sated. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Nov 22 16:33:31 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: First snow, snowbirds on the railing. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Nov 18 07:24:26 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A branch fell, startling a flock of juncos into chattering flight. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Nov 14 19:19:23 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Fallen leaves on the hillside are still orange and fresh. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Nov 10 19:05:01 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The Tulip-trees are bare except for a few yellow leaves in the treetops. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Nov 6 11:39:00 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Kudzu is dying back for the winter. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Oct 25 17:19:11 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A displaying Ruffed Grouse tiptoed out of the driveway. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Oct 25 08:48:18 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A cloud of samaras spiralled down from the crown of a female ash. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Oct 12 21:45:19 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Multi-colored acorns litter the ground. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Oct 7 19:23:55 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The rain teased out the scent of freshly fallen leaves. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Oct 6 13:01:43 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Black cherry fruits litter the ground. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Oct 5 02:46:19 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A cormorant flew low over the Susquehanna. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Oct 3 07:37:00 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Banks of clouds in West Virginia outlined the roadside spider webs. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Sep 30 19:07:36 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Fatty spicebush berries are ripe and ready for the fall migrants. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Sep 29 08:16:01 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Warblers in the tulip-tree. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Sep 28 21:18:31 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The ground under the sycamore is brown with crumply leaves. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Sep 27 14:24:23 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A few stray sugar maple leaves have changed color and fallen. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Sep 23 19:39:02 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: On a cool evening, only a few cicadas are singing, their songs muted. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Sep 22 17:14:33 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Blackgum fruits are ripe and the leaves are just starting to fall. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Sep 21 19:34:44 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: At dusk, the praying mantises were flying in the pine tree tops. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Sep 19 15:54:06 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: I startled a fence lizard and it skittered away to hide...under my left foot. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Sep 16 17:57:48 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A cloud of sulphur butterflies were caught up in a breeze and wafted like autumn leaves. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Sep 15 16:24:41 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: As I sprawled across the lawn, finishing up my yoga routine, the vultures began to circle. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Sep 14 17:30:27 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A gentle rain started this evening as the hurricane neared the coast. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Sep 13 21:24:31 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Fresh wood chips suggest recent beaver activity. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Sep 12 09:20:24 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: On top of Roan Mountain, tiny blueberries still dot the bushes. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Sep 5 17:55:14 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A praying mantis chomped on a disembodied grasshopper head. As the mantis ate, the grasshopper's antennae twitched. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Sep 4 09:55:16 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A praying mantis chomped on a disembodied grasshopper head. As the mantis ate, the grasshopper's antennae twitched. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Aug 26 13:26:19 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Sumac berries are ripe and hickory nuts are falling. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Aug 20 09:44:58 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Fall flowers are blooming - goldenrod, joe pye, and ironweed. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Aug 14 21:17:59 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: I go barefoot so that, when I step on a baby toad in the dark, I can jump backwards in time and don't crush it. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Aug 11 17:51:45 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: After the rain, a spider began to rebuild its web. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Aug 9 20:46:06 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A doe and fawn bolted away as I approached. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Aug 7 19:44:21 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: An avid lover of music, the silver-spotted skipper spend most of its time flitting among the microphones or resting on banjoes. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Aug 5 18:33:01 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A mushroom shaped like a giant head of cauliflower grew out of the base of a pine tree. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Aug 4 17:11:09 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Nine Catalpa Sphinx caterpillars completely defoliated a young Catalpa tree. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Aug 3 17:47:03 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Last week's mushrooms are decaying in huddled masses. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Aug 1 20:44:56 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A wolf spider held a fly in its mandibles, the prey's antennae still twitching. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Aug 1 20:16:51 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A doe browsed at the edge of the field. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jul 30 12:28:52 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: When a tree falls in the forest, it is very loud. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Jul 28 15:47:10 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Smatterings of rain have broken the heat wave. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jul 26 12:55:04 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A group of young grouse spread their tail and neck feathers in alarm. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jul 24 08:56:03 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: I tickled the snake's tail until it slid off the road. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Jul 22 11:25:40 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Brown, yellow, red, green - the colors of the desert. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jul 9 19:16:44 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A queen snake lay along a limb, her body tapering to a small, elegant head. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Jul 7 17:17:55 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Silver tongues of rain dripping from the canopy. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jul 5 19:29:29 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A luna moth sheltered from the rain under the broad leaf of a deertongue. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jul 5 11:31:56 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Two great blues flew over, "grawk"ing loudly. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Jul 4 18:29:31 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A clutch of box turtle eggs was dug up and eaten, presumably by a skunk. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jul 3 07:50:39 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Tiny white bells fell onto the path from Sourwood trees above. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Jun 30 12:31:27 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A low buzz from the first cicadas heralds the dog days of summer. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Jun 29 19:43:55 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The empty casing of a dragonfly larva drifted down the creek. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Jun 27 21:51:26 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Out the window, I could hear fireworks but could only see fireflies. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Jun 27 21:12:15 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A kestrel perched erect on the telephone line above a field. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jun 26 17:06:01 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A breeze rustled through the upper canopy. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Jun 24 21:23:23 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A lone bat flew past, silhouetted against the graying sky. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Jun 22 17:11:20 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A young box turtle with one blind eye. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Jun 22 06:59:50 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Out the window, a solid wall of fog. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Jun 20 18:12:00 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: After the rain, gentle drips of water fell from the trees. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jun 19 19:01:33 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The pasture is dry and crunchy under my bare feet. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jun 18 10:19:24 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The first ripe black raspberries! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Jun 16 11:28:13 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A hummingbird hovered in front of a pot of pansies, his throat patch brilliantly red. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Jun 13 09:27:45 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A strong scent of honeysuckle flowers popped up after the rain. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jun 11 11:54:02 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: At long last - RAIN! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Jun 9 14:53:10 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: I sniffed the air for invasives, noting the cherry cough syrup scent of royal paulownia and the heady sweetness of privet. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Jun 8 15:03:33 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A single strand of spiderweb across the trail caught and snapped on the tip of my nose. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jun 7 20:25:42 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The dry trill of gray treefrogs came out of the woods on a hot afternoon. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jun 7 06:27:35 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Cloudy skies threatened, but no rain fell. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Jun 1 20:47:48 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A great blue heron, flying downriver. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue May 31 16:14:43 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Metallic green tiger beetles shimmered on sunlit portions of the trail. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon May 30 21:20:05 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The deep rumble of a bullfrog call underlay green frog notes. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun May 29 08:24:50 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Turkeys cackling in the woods. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat May 28 20:50:52 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The first stick-tights of the season caught a ride on my flannel. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat May 28 14:27:29 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A gentle rain didn't prevent a wood thrush and vireo from singing. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri May 27 15:59:31 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: I was startled into momentary immobility by the sound of a grouse taking flight. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu May 26 20:43:36 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The ridgetop is still brown where the new leaves got bitten by a late frost. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue May 24 07:02:02 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The air was sweet with the scent of privet flowers. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue May 17 08:27:58 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Craneflies drifting past like giant mosquitoes. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu May 12 13:12:10 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A high speed chase, with one box turtle trotting after another one. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed May 4 21:20:57 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Tender young leaves were killed by the frost. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Apr 9 15:04:05 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Ruffed Grouse drumming among the cedars. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Apr 6 19:10:36 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Patches of green are starting to pop out on the hillside. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Apr 3 14:41:55 EDT 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A startled fence lizard scampered away to a cranny in the rock. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Mar 30 13:14:21 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The silky silver catkins are beginning to push their way out of the willow buds. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Mar 28 21:27:15 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Spicebush in full bloom. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Mar 25 20:10:37 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A huge, orange, full moon rose over the swamp. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Mar 23 12:41:44 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Green leaves poking up at the water's edge. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Mar 16 12:39:20 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Walking on a paved trail amid a dozen people, the sound of moving water and the textures of the trees still carried me to a feeling of stillness. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Mar 11 18:35:55 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Bursts of snow all afternoon. First the air is white with flakes, then all is still. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Mar 11 08:18:41 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Fuzzy yellow flowers spread out around the red maple's twigs. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Mar 8 15:42:29 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Stray snowflakes danced in the air all day long. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Mar 7 12:42:04 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Autumn Olive leaves are already beginning to unfurl from their buds. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Mar 5 08:22:58 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The only snow remaining is in patches on the north side of Wallens Ridge. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Feb 27 21:47:07 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: While we sat in the near dark waiting for the frogs to call, a great blue heron flew overhead, "grawk"ing loudly. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Feb 23 16:54:34 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A pile of crow feathers, sculpted by the rain. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Feb 23 14:08:03 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A pile of crow feathers, scultped by the rain. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Feb 22 18:42:45 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A warm, sunny morning after days of rain brings out the spring bird chorus. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Feb 19 19:05:16 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A cardinal singing it's heart out right after dawn. "Wet, wet, wet, wet. Purdy, purdy, purdy." * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Feb 17 08:07:52 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Warm weather has brought out the first wildflowers - bittercress blooming in the yard - and has prompted a newt to go for a stroll. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Feb 15 11:11:38 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Silhouettes against the early morning sky resolved into a flock of Cedar Waxwings. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Feb 6 19:55:55 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Fifteen hen turkeys ran up the hillside, their tails spread in distress. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Jan 31 22:03:17 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Ice-rimmed branches, fog-shrouded hills, and snow-covered ground - three shades of white. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jan 30 21:40:02 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Beech's ghost leaves shone against the gray bark of the wet woods. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jan 29 12:22:41 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Icicles building like stalactites, one drip at a time. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jan 29 08:13:37 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: I woke to a gentle rain. But sleet had obviously fallen in the night and the steps were covered with a solid sheet of ice. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Jan 27 15:01:59 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A red-tailed hawk hunting over a fallow field. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Jan 26 09:03:08 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Snow remains only in a few shadows. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jan 25 08:13:20 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The wolf moon lit up the residual snow. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jan 23 11:38:15 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A junco walked along the railing, kicking up snow. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Jan 21 16:30:13 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Fifteen feet above the ground on an arching hickory trunk, I found signs that a fox had shared my perch. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Jan 14 16:02:47 EST 2005 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: In the late afternoon light, tree shadows on the highway made me think I was driving through a barcode. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Dec 28 10:10:33 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Tufted Titmice flew down to the catfood, stealing it away one kibble at a time. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Dec 23 15:27:11 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A flock of Cedar Waxwings eating Privet berries. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Dec 15 11:05:44 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A beaver poked its head up through a hole in the ice. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Dec 8 10:08:09 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Drab winter goldfinches picking seeds out of alder cones and sycamore balls. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Oct 28 15:54:17 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The Gray Treefrog was lichen gray and warty, yet soft and damp as it clung to my fingers with suction toes. Then it took a step and exposed brilliant yellow-orange beneath its hind legs. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Oct 19 13:52:42 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Sweetgum leaves are maroon and purple, many fallen. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Oct 12 10:20:50 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Through the morning fog, I watched three deer galloping through the water. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Oct 6 10:47:05 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A velvet-topped mushroom expanded, a day later, into a smooth-domed giant. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Sep 21 13:52:01 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A flock of turkeys - two moms and about seven half grown young-uns. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Sep 4 21:14:57 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Lone peepers calling in the woods. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Aug 22 21:43:03 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Water Pennies crawling slowly over rock-sides. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Aug 9 21:39:17 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A huge flock of Morning Doves fed on a country road, their numbers bringing to mind Passenger Pigeons. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Aug 5 20:33:54 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A screech owl quavering at dusk. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Jul 29 19:56:03 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Newly fallen buckeyes, blooming goldenrod and asters. Fall? * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jul 25 19:00:19 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A small weasel darted out of the woods and across the road. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jul 18 19:45:36 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Over to the dry side of the Cascades, home of intensely yellow lichens. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jul 10 10:58:09 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Spotted Sandpipers bobbing along the rocks at the river edge. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Jun 18 20:05:15 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A different species of lightning bug, this one with long, green flashes, flew lazily amid the treetops. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Jun 1 09:21:33 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Rainforest weather - drippy days and storms at night. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun May 9 21:06:28 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Mating water snakes, their tailtips twined together. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun May 2 12:42:45 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: May day brings the year's first lightning bugs! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Apr 27 20:25:21 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Although the early spring ephemerals are my favorites, the late spring wildflowers certainly have their own charm. Hillsides coated with white, pink, purple, and yellow. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Apr 13 18:23:58 EDT 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: April "showers" - three inches of rain in three days produce flooding. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Mar 31 19:12:28 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Wood Ducks in the bayou, a snapping turtle in the marsh, a blooming trout lily, gobbling turkeys. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Mar 16 14:46:47 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A sparkle amid the thyme - spring's first glowworm. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Mar 15 18:42:42 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Like a distant heartbeat, a Ruffed Grouse drummed to attract a mate. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Mar 4 20:27:53 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Gnats around my face. Earthworms crawling over my toes. Wasps and ladybugs reappear. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Feb 29 18:25:12 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Coltsfoot blooming! Toothwort with big buds. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Feb 27 18:27:41 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: An adult mayfly, alive, on the snow. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Feb 25 14:21:49 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The water striders are out of hibernation! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Feb 22 16:12:30 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The first blooms of spring - Hairy Bittercress and Field Speedwell, as well as the cultivated Winter Aconite. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Feb 15 11:16:57 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Insects are starting to be out and about. A woolly worm a few days ago, an inchworm today. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Feb 14 13:09:03 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: As I sat on a hillside above a creek, a Great Blue Heron flew up the cove level with my eyes. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Feb 13 12:49:44 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Lettuce bed planted. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Feb 4 18:08:12 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Spring-like weather! Time to plant. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Jan 29 21:19:50 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A huge ring around the moon spanned a third of the sky. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Jan 18 18:05:54 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Duetting owls in the January drizzle. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Jan 17 19:48:16 EST 2004 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: My car startled a kestrel into premature flight. It flew low across the road, dropping its prey halfway across. The mourning dove was nearly as large as the kestrel - a heavy load. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Dec 31 15:32:39 EST 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: The frost clings to the shadows, while in the sun the ground begins to thaw. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Dec 19 19:12:15 EST 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Vole tracks bounded across the creek on our plank bridge, then disappeared on the wet rocks at the water's edge. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Dec 12 14:06:06 EST 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: As I set out into the woods at 10 am, the sun was just beginning to peep up over the hills. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Dec 7 09:47:22 EST 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A kestrel hunched over on the wire, hunting. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Nov 29 09:29:15 EST 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: First snow! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sun Nov 23 08:57:28 EST 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: 6+ inches of rain overflowed the rain gauge - and the creek. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Wed Nov 5 16:02:51 EST 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: As I sat on the forest floor to draw, a large snail crawled out of the leaves and across my pencil box. It travelled at such a fast clip that I barely had time to draw it before it left the box and disappeared back into the leaves. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Nov 4 12:31:41 EST 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Tender, new Maidenhair Fern fronds have unfurled, tricked by the warmth of an Indian Summer. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Oct 27 18:06:59 EST 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A fingernail moon slipped through the leafless Tulip-trees. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Oct 16 08:18:35 EDT 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: On a frosty morning, the first White-throated Sparrow sang its song of expatriation. "Oh, sweet, Canada, Canada, Canada." * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Thu Oct 9 15:43:31 EDT 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A sudden breeze gusts a flock of dried leaves toward me. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Fri Oct 3 09:04:34 EDT 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Early morning, the sun melting the frost off the tree leaves. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Tue Sep 30 19:56:46 EDT 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A boulder was covered with rock tripe, as large and curled as fallen leaves. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Sat Sep 20 19:45:22 EDT 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: Yellow Sugar Maple leaves are already fallen in the woods. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Sep 8 09:41:20 EDT 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: A flash of yellow outside my window alerted me to fall migration. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mon Sep 1 19:13:25 EDT 2003 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NATURE FEATURE: I shared my bathing hole with a dozen cowering minnows and one inquisitive water snake. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *