Q on holiday

Dinosaur Monument

2011-07-09T21:16:00.000-05:00

We drove into Utah.

We were looking for Dinosaur Monument.

We saw a Bullock's Oriole at a Humming bird feeder
at the Welcome Center.

His mate was waiting for her turn.

It was here I first learned of the petroglyphs that were
on the rocks in the Monument.

The quarry was closed to the public.

We saw a Spotted Towhee.

He sang for us.

A new to us bird.

I was disappointed I couldn't get into the quarry.

Yet when I saw the rock art I was thrilled.

The art spoke to my soul.

The Clovis Tradition are my favorite Paleo-peoples.

But the Fremont peoples were amazing humans too.

We had a wonderful trip this year.

We had a long detour on our drive home.
The Missouri river was flooding.
Our highway home was closed.
We came through Iowa.
I am happy to be home.
Happy to be dreaming of the
First Americans and Mammoths.

Flaming Gorge

2011-07-08T22:11:00.000-05:00

We took an extra day going home so we could
drive the Flaming Gorge in Wyoming.

This was an amazing drive.

Rain was coming in but we were heading south.

Lake Tahoe 2010

2011-07-08T19:47:00.000-05:00

I did not get to post all of my trip last year.

Life became full of other activities. I decided to look back at the photographs and share a few.

This Common Tern was very elegant as he
flew over Lake Tahoe.

Gulls make me laugh.

The water is so very clear.

It is a gorgeous lake.

Lake Tahoe, California

2011-07-07T19:05:00.001-05:00

We had a long drive to Lake Tahoe.

I was happy we made good time.

I wanted to be settled in so we could watch the sunset.

It was gorgeous.

Raven House, California

2011-07-06T21:50:00.000-05:00

We stayed at the Ravin House again this year when we visited our son in California. It is a vacation rental house on the ocean.

I watched the Sea Lions sun on the rocks.

A Pliated Woodpecker

hammered away.

California Poppies

were planted in flower gardens.

We love the Banana Slug.
They love the Ravin House.

Last year we went tide pooling.

An Otter woke up while we were tide pooling.

My favorite photograph from tide pooling
last year is this Star Fish.

I really love the light in the water.

This year the tide was too high for tide pooling.
We took a long walk on one of the beaches
and enjoyed being together at the Ravin House.

We watched the sunset
from the deck.

We fixed our stir fry.
We played a game of cribbage.
We laughed and hugged.
I like the Ravin House.

Red Woods

2011-07-05T22:40:00.001-05:00

We stood with the Red Woods.
We stood in awe.
We sotod in an old-growth forest of ancient trees.

We stood in silence.

The sword ferns were opening.

Roosevelt Elk are safe here.

A nurse log reminded me how the forest provides for new growth.

We walked the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Nature Trail.

The understory was gorgeous.

The light was just perfect.

I was happy to see a bug.

When I am in the old growth forests
I feel safe.

When I stand with the ancient
trees I feel as if all is right in my world.

Gold Beach, Oregon

2011-07-04T22:47:00.000-05:00

We stopped at Gold Beach for some beach time.

Our lodging had private, easy, beach access.
We unpacked and headed for the ocean.

Wild lupines,

red clover,

grasses,

blue flag,

more lupine and

birds

singing as we walked the trail to the beach.

It was gorgeous.

We came back to our room to watch the sunset from our patio.

A young deer was in the grassland next to our lodging.

A few California Quail looked for bugs.

A group of Brown Pelicans

flew by the setting sun.

I was so thrilled to see Brown Pelicans.

Some low clouds kept us from seeing the
sun set on the ocean.

It still was beautiful.

Portland, Oregon

2011-07-03T21:25:00.001-05:00

We arrived in Portland, Oregon a day early.

Our daughter had tracked us down and encouraged
us to come a day early so we would have an extra day
in Portland. I am so glad we did too. We were busy people
doing all of our fun activities. I did not take very many photographs. I did not want the distraction of the camera.

We were downtown a few times.

I am so happy we saw the documentary
"Cave of Forgotten Dreams."
I did not care for the 3d filming but I love the subject!

We did lots of shopping.
I was so excited when I found the silver slug pins.
One for me and one for my daughter.
She made mine a felted leaf to rest on when I am not wearing it.
She just whipped this darling up while we were playing cards.
She is fast and so talented.

I found Myrtlewood slugs at the Made in Oregon shop,
"Two please."

Our daughter loves the good slug.
She taught me to love them too.

We visited the Central Library.
Amazing library.

For our daughter's birthday activity the four of us
painted our own pottery.

So much fun. I hope to do this again.

One of our gifts to her was a set of circular knitting needles.

She really took to knitting.

We drank wonderful coffee, ate delicious meals, played cribbage,
and had so much fun.

The camera was called for when spiderlings were located.

We relocated them.

We did our Fossil hunting
at the Fossil Cartel.

I bought my rock tumbler!
This is something I have wanted for years.

Portland, Oregon is a dynamic city.
Many independent shop keepers and restaurateurs
help to keep the city on the cutting edge.

We bought fabric.

I am making a travel journal for next year's trip using

brown paper sacks for pages and this fabric

for my cover.

We went to Scrap looking for craft supplies.
This city is an artist dream come true.
I am always inspired!

The city was preparing for the Rose Festival.
We had to leave before the festival began.
We had reserved a house on the beach in California.
We had so much fun. I have few photographs of Portland, Oregon
from this trip but I have thousands of happy memories.

Painted Hills Unit

2011-07-02T10:29:00.002-05:00

We were told the best time to view the Painted Hills was at sunset.

They were correct.

Looking at the photographs reminds me of the awe I felt when I saw the landscape.

I am a Tall Grass Prairie girl.
I am accustomed to green trees and grasses.
This landscape left me speechless.

These are paleo-soils.

Wow!

Fossil, Oregon

2011-07-01T18:47:00.002-05:00

We stayed in Fossil, Oregon.
We were a day ahead of our schedule.
The Innkeepers at the Service Creek Stage Stop Inn
put us up in town since the inn was full.

We had a great time digging for fossils.

We found a few fossil leaf pieces.
My collection of fossil and gem stones is growing.

We had one more day in the John Day Fossil Beds.

Blue Basin Hike

2011-06-30T16:36:00.003-05:00

We hiked the Blue Basin trail.

Right away we saw the Bullock's Oriole.

Sage scented the path.

Other worldly landscape with

fossils everywhere.

The trail was narrow in places.

I was a silent witness.

The rocks spoke to me.

I could feel the ancient life.

I am connected.

We sat in the natural amphitheater
and listened.

We left our echos

as our tribute

to this sacred site.

We took our time walking back to our car.

We watched a mother hunt bugs for her babies.
We could hear the little ones but never saw them.

This was one of the most special hikes we took.

The paleo-soils touched me deeply.

John Day Fossil Beds Clarno Unit

2011-06-29T21:59:00.001-05:00

Understanding geological time is easier to do when you walk in the rock formations.

This short hike helped me understand.

Every now and again I took a break from the rocks for butterflies

fungi

wild flowers

and birds.

I dearly love the Ravin.

Seeing new to us birds was wonderful.

I think this is a Blue Grosbeak.
One quick photograph is all he allowed.

A Hairstreak of some sort.

This entire trail was so interesting.

Earth has changed many times.

Familiar trees

are ancient.

The interpretive boards explained

the rocks and the flora and fauna of the distant past.

To read them just click on the photograph

and they will enlarge.

Amazing....

I was looking at a fossil forest floor.

I was awed.

I am changed.

A deer fed by the road.

We saw very few people while hiking.
Our roads were lonesome too.
Just the way we like it.

Visitors Center John Day Fossil Beds

2011-06-28T22:58:00.001-05:00

The visitor center had many displays of fossils that had been found in the John Day Fossil Beds.

I was interested in all of them but I am currently studying the fossil record of the horse.

I study the past so I can understand the present a wee bit better.

I love this! Chocolate has been around for a very long time!

I am always interested in the relationships between flora and fauna.

I bought a few post cards.

They make nice book marks.

This was a very nice visitors center.

I was so thrilled to find this book

and a Mammoth.

Our little Horsey needed a dashboard companion.

It had rained east of us.

We received the rainbow.

John Day Fossil Beds

2011-06-27T20:54:00.002-05:00

We planned three days to investigate this region.

Day one was full.

The landscape so gorgeous I gasped.

The sign borads explained the history

and the geology.

Every where I looked I I was amazed.

We were ready for the visitors center and more information.

We hoped to see fossils.

Vale, Oregon

2011-06-26T16:37:00.001-05:00

We arrived in Vale, Oregon.

One of the many places the Pioneers stopped.

For some they had arrived at their destination.

This is a city of murals.

Their history decorates their buildings.

We left Vale and the Oregon trail.

We were in fossil country.

Our next stop was the John Day Fossil Beds.

I could hardly wait.

Yellowstone and Idaho

2011-06-25T14:51:00.001-05:00

We had planned to drive through Yellowstone this year.
We thought we would stay outside the park.
We just wanted to see the Trumpeter Swans again.

An avalanche two weeks prior had closed the east gate.
We had heard the gate was open from 8pm-10am.
When we arrived around 9am the gate was open.
The road was flanked by a snow bank and
warnings issued not to stop.
We drove on to the Swan's habitat.

We waited for over two hours to see the Swans but they never came out into the wet lands.

A few other critters entertained us as we scanned for Swans.

I do love the good Ravin.

This pair was chatty.

Bison rule in Yellowstone.

Always happy to let them pass.

They have right of way.

The Elk herds looked healthy.

Not as many song birds this year.
A few Hawks hunted over the meadow.

Finally we had to leave without seeing the Swans.
We were disappointed.
I hoped the Swans were okay and nesting.
We drove on into West Yellowstone, Montana for fuel.
I shopped in a fun rock shop.

While traveling this year I am knitting a blanket.
I get chilly sometimes with the ac on and thought a car blanket would be a good project to keep me busy while I watched the scenery out the window.
We drove on into Idaho. We listened to music and chatted.

Idaho is home to amazing lava flows.
The landscape becomes other worldly.
We stopped to read an information sign.
Back out onto the road. I picked up my knitting
and looked out the passenger window.
I spotted Swans.

"Swans," I said.
My husband found a place to turn around and we headed back east.

The Swans were nesting in a wet lands near the highway.

We got out and watched them for over an hour.

When we got back into the car we noticed a small sign,
Swan Lake.

I am so happy to know there
is a pair of nesting Trumpeter Swans
in eastern Idaho.

I shall always be grateful

I was able to see them.

Big Horn National Forest

2011-06-25T11:51:00.001-05:00

We drove through the Big Horn National Forest
in the Black Hills.

We stopped for marmots on the road.

Following a rain drop

as it shapes a canyon and finds its way to the Gulf of Mexico
was interesting. The Missouri River begins in the
Centennial Mountains of Montana. Over 12,000 years ago
Paleo-Indiand settled the plains of the Missouri River basin.
It is a mighty river.

Water is one of Mother Nature's sculptors.
The Mighty Missouri has shaped my life.

This water fall was gorgeous.

I had just read the interpretive board

when a Broad Tailed Hummingbird came to the feeder
the Rangers had set up.

I heard his wings and turned

to see him land on the feeder.

His gorget is hot pink!

I watched him fly off into a distant

evergreen.

With his hot pink turned off,

he blended into the surroundings.

I went back to waterfalls

and incredible bluffs.

Smoky the Bear is a favorite character of mine.

We looked for rock shops as we traveled,

most were closed.

When we arrived in Cody, Wyoming I was ready to do some shopping!

Devil's Tower

2011-06-23T20:22:00.000-05:00

We headed northwest to Devils Tower

in Wyoming.

There is a Prairie Dog town
as you climb the hill to the monument.

We think Prairie Dogs are charming.

Devils Tower is sacred ground.
Native Americans hold their sun dance here.

Some people choose to climb others stand in awe.
I am a seeker.
I stand in awe.

We read the myths of Devils Tower.
The rising and setting of the Pleiades over the Tower signaled when to plant and harvest. The Pleiades informed all the ancient cultures.

It is another awesome landmark.

The geology of this region is gorgeous.

We stopped for a picnic.

We discussed the difference between a National Monument
and a National Park. It seems to be about land use.

I picked up a few things for my
scrapbook.

The historic stickers are nice.
I have been collecting National Park quarters.
I wonder if National Monuments will be
part of the program?

Mammoth Site

2011-06-22T21:17:00.000-05:00

I dearly love the Mammoth.

Coming to this active dig site was a dream come true.

Walking around the dig made me want to get down on my knees and get to work.

There are so many bones in this sink hole that active digging is done only in July.
The rest of the year is spent processing all the bones.

The interpretive center was just as fascinating as the dig.

I am still thinking about Mammoth bone houses.

The Mammoth Hunters, the Clovis Tradition Paleo-Indians, are my favorite ancient ones. I am drawn to their story.

Wild Horse Sanctuary

2011-06-21T21:37:00.001-05:00

We had read about the Wild Horse Sanctuary in South Dakota.

Seeing the Horses left me speechless.

We arrived early in the morning after a night of thundershowers.
The Horses were coming up the hill following their horse trail.
I stood in tears as they came by the fence.
With thousands of acres to roam they chose this spot at this time.
I was honored to see them up close.

It was a magical moment.

My little dashboard Horsey was very pleased.

We drove down the muddy, rocky road to the headquarters of the
sanctuary. Finding fossils on display was an added treat.

The fossil record of the Horse is one of the most complete records
we have of any species.

I am studying their fossil record.

So very interesting.

The story of this sanctuary
reminds me how good people can be.
The Horses are safe here.

When we drove back up the hill to the blacktop
our tires were filled with mud
and our hearts were filled with love
for the Wild Horses.

Chimney Rock and Rock show

2011-06-20T21:07:00.002-05:00

I can imagine how exciting it must have been
for the pioneers to see landmarks.
Their 2,000 mile journey to Oregon City, Oregon
was just beginning.

I wonder if they ate rattlesnake meat

or turkeys?

I took a few landscape shots before going into the visitors center.

We also were following the North Platt river on our way to
Scotts Bluff.

As we approached Scotts Bluff we saw a sign for a rock show.
I had never been to one.
I was so excited!

Scotts Bluff is another amazing landmark in Nebraska.

It is huge.
I wonder why there is no apostrophe in Scotts.

It had rained during the night and the wild flowers were still dripping raindrops.

Once we left the monument it was time to find the rock show!

I want to join a rock and gem club!

The camp ground was muddy.
A few venders had braved the cold and wet.

I bought a few things. 50 million years old????
Oh wow.....

3 million year old sand dollars?
That is so cool, "Two please."

Fossil Freeway Adventure

2011-06-19T19:12:00.001-05:00

We planned our trip this year, to the West Coast to be a
fossil adventure.

Fossil hunting is a new hobby for us.

Our daughter lives in Portland, Oregon.

Our son lives in Northern California.

The trail is well marked.
We have all the time we need.

We left a day early.

Our dashboard sitter, Horsey, was ready to go.

This is our first time having a travel critter and she did just fine.

We left Missouri in the early morning and headed north to Nebraska.

Our first hike was in Ash Hallow.

Boots decorated the fence posts as we drove down into the valley.

We heard many birds.

The Yellow Warbler was very courious since we were the only Humans about.

The Black Headed Grosbeak was a new to us bird.

The House Wren reminded me of home.

The history of the Oregon and California trails is very interesting.

I like interpretive signs that explain the history of an area.

I am awed by the Pioneers.

These wagon ruts are over 100 years old.

My road is also curvy.

I am grateful Nebraska saw the importantance of this history and kept the plow from distroying

portions of the trails.

I think of life on the Tall Grass Prairie in the 1800's.

I think of the courage it would have taken to pack up everything and head west.

The 2,000 miles to Oregon City was difficult.

Many of the Pioneers walk with their over loaded wagons.

Many are buried along the trail.

Lone Fir Cemetery

2010-07-19T14:43:00.072-05:00

Our daughter volunteers for the
Lone Fir Cemetery,
in Portland, Oregon.

She gave us a tour while we were visiting.

This historical cemetery is very interesting.

Many stories of

famous people

and different nationalities.

If you have time to visit this amazing cemetery call ahead.
Often someone in the office will give you a tour.

In October they often have night
tours with guides in costume.
A cool fund raiser and a good way to keep vandals out
on Halloween.

New graves

are often right next

to old graves.

I was delighted to see a hairstreak.

The squirrels were very interested in us.

This is a very well cared for cemetery.

I am proud of my daughter

for her service to her community.

Reading tombstones
is lots of fun too.

Portland, Oregon

2010-07-06T20:07:00.000-05:00

We had a very fun time in Portland, Oregon.
Ravens were my theme for this trip.
So exciting to find a Raven feather when we left breakfast one morning.

I enjoy the attitude of the
people who live in Portland.

The city has wild places

and wonderful gardens.

This trip we visited Washington Park

and the Rose Garden.

The zoo is only $4.oo
a person on Tuesdays.
It was very crowed!

We parked near the Rose Garden
and took the zoo train.

The Lorikeets

were so fun!

I have mixed feelings about zoos.

I am happy people are becoming aware
of how important wetlands are.

We came to Portland to celebrate
our daughter's birthday.

I treasure the memories.

Trumpeter Swans

2010-07-02T23:03:00.004-05:00

I could watch the Swans all day.

They are so very beautiful.

They are protected in
Yellowstone.

I wish all wildlife was protected.

Yellowstone

2010-07-01T15:32:00.002-05:00

If you have never been to Yellowstone National Park make plans to go.
I wish I had taken my children when they were young.
It is an amazing place.
I am ready to return.

On the Way

2010-06-27T11:51:00.000-05:00

We stopped in Nebraska at a charming rest stop.

Western Kingbirds

Lark Sparrows

and Rattlesnakes greeted us.

I heard the rattle before I saw him.

A horned toad crossed our path.

In Wyoming we saw Pronghorn grazing
by the side of the road.

We were on a lonesome highway.

We were traveling into the wilds.

Tulip Time in Iowa

2009-05-10T17:37:00.032-05:00

We attended a tulip festival in Pella, Iowa.
It is a three day event every year.
We stayed for two days.

Pella is a Dutch community in south central Iowa.

This tulip is known as the "Pella" tulip.
It was developed for the town of Pella by growers in Holland.

The town is charming and Tulip Time is beautiful!

The tulips are fantastic!

There were two parades each day.
These two napped on their shoes after dancing in the parade.

I did some shopping.
So I needed a shopping bag.

I have begun collecting pottery mugs from the different festivals we attend.

A storm blew in while we were walking about on the square.

A downpour to water the tulips.

It quickly passed.

We heard about a kite festival that was being held in the small town of Grennell,

just north of Pella.

Saturday morning we drove up to see kites!

A windy beautiful day.

Perfect for kites!

I was "Wowed!"

I love kites.

They are beautiful.

They are fun!

A strong 25 mph wind kept the kites flying high.

I so enjoyed watching the proformance kites.

Some kites had small kites on their strings

and some had super long tails!

One small delicate kite was blown onto the netting of the kite field.

I waited to see if she would be claimed.

After awhile I took her off the netting.

She came home with me!

People came from all over

to fly their kites.

Kites are so beautiful and fun!

I bought an umbrella.

An umbrella for summertime festivals.

Perfect Hostess

2009-03-30T20:52:00.014-05:00

Bunny sits on her desk.
He tells the time and gives the forecast.
In Portland he normally says, "Rain."

If I had a Bunny our Bunnies would be ear friends.
I need a Bunny.

The four of us played cribbage after supper each night.
Little Red won the tourney.
She long ago won our hearts.

We planted an indoor herb garden together.
The chives took right off.

The boys planted strawberries in planter boxes

for the patio.

I hope they get enough sun.

Since it rained while we were at Lake Quinault we were not able to take our sketch books into the forest and do our watercolors. My daughter knew I was a little disappointed. Lake Quinault Lodge has a water color class on Saturdays. We would not be there for it since we had to leave on Tuesday. No worries, my daughter gave a water color class for just the two of us at her

kitchen table!

She knows all about watercolors.

She taught me the joy of letting go of the outcome and enjoying the process.
I need a set of watercolor pencils.

While our pages dried we went to the yarn shop. We both want to learn to knit. Even though we are 1,500 miles away from each other we both can learn to knit! We can chat about knit one and pearl two. We can both knit a scarf.

I was fascinated with her moss.

She is fascinated with the slugs that call her backyard home.

We are careful not to step on a slug!

I finished my book about the Pacific Northwest. I left it for her library.

She loaned me a book for the plane from her stacks.

Flowers filled her rooms with light.

She filled my heart with joy.

Thank you for a wonderful time in Portland, Oregon!

"Knit one, pearl two...ear friend."

I miss you dear Daughter!

Lake Quinault, Washington

2009-03-29T17:51:00.015-05:00

When we arrived at Lake Quinault
there was a slight mist.

By the time we were unpacked and in our rooms it was raining.

We enjoyed a fire in the lodge and our books.

We played cribbage and drank tea and ate cookies.

We had fun.

The next morning it was still raining.

After breakfast we bundle into our rain gear

and went for a hike in the old growth forest.

Some of the areas around the lodge are being replanted with native plants.

In the ditches by the road Skunk Cabbages were in bud.

Steller's Jay flew near in the rain.

The temperate rain forest is my favorite forest.

It is managed by Mother Nature.

There were some birds in the rain.

This Varied Thrush was spotted by my husband.

A flock of Bushtits chattered.

I loved seeing the birds but I came to be with the trees.

Even in the rain they were full of magic.

We were able to take two hikes in the Forest.

I visited my tree, my Ent.

In the Quinault rain forest I feel alive.

Long Beach, Washington

2009-03-28T11:04:00.013-05:00

We stopped at Long Beach, Washington.

It was very windy and the waves of the Pacific Ocean roared.

We stopped so we could visit the World Kite Museum.

I have been looking forward to seeing this museum.

I love kites.
I am a kite enthusiast!

I was inspired at the Kite Museum.

Local artist sell their creations in the gift shop.

They are not available on line just yet.

This is a busy beach town!

Celebrating the kite is a year long event.

Kites have a remarkable history.

There are fighter kites.

There are stunt kites.

There are kites that have saved people.

The kite is an important part of our history.

Plus they are beautiful!

There are so many different styles.

This is a Wau Bulan or Moon Kite, from Malaysia.

These are still made and flown today.

I love the way the Chinese have meanings for their symbols.

I brought home two small silk kites for my travel room.

They mean, "Happy Memories."

I could attend a conference and learn to make kites.

I could meet other kite people.

I would love to raise kites in the backyard!

Farmer's Market

2009-03-27T20:18:00.011-05:00

On Saturday the Farmer's Market opened for the season.

We were up bright and early.

Lots of Portlanders were also at the market first thing.

The open air market smelled delicious and looked beautiful.

We needed supplies for a short road trip we were planning.
I found some incredible cookies to go with our evening tea

and a cinnamon loaf that would be nice for breakfast on the road.

Spring blooms were just opening.

The city was beautiful.

Ferns growing out of moss laden trees fascinated me.

After shopping at the Farmer's Market we stopped at the Saturday Market.
Here artist sell their creations.
We found a few must haves and some things that were on our lists.

I love supporting local artists.

All over the city this lovely red bush was in bloom.
I never did find out what it is called.

I know it as " beautiful"!

Portland, Oregon

2009-03-27T09:38:00.003-05:00

The rain stopped so we went for a walk in the park.

The pond was full of gulls and ducks.

We enjoyed watching two pairs of
Hooded Mergansers.

The Mallards swam with the gulls.

I was charmed when I saw English Daisies growing wild.

We did not make daisy chains.

Perhaps next time we will pack a picinic and bring a kite.

Preparing for Portland, Oregon

2009-03-06T15:22:00.002-06:00

I am gathering my things.
I have chosen a pallet of earth tone colors.
I have put together traveling outfits.

An artist pallet will be the foundation for my found art project.
Perhaps I will find a shell or press a leaf or wild flower.
Maybe my daughter will share some moss from her garden.

My motif for this trip is the salmon.

I made my bookmark this afternoon.

I have my travel journal and my plane tickets.

I am reading about the history of the Pacific Northwest.
I am getting ready to see my daughter.
I am hoping to see her Spring.

The road home

2009-02-16T20:55:00.008-06:00

We said, "Goodbye," to Texas.

We took the back roads in Louisiana

and wiggled our way into Arkansas.

Healing waters and a hot meal sounded delicious!

Bath House Row is the focal point of this National Park.

The Arlington looked intriguing.

This grand old Hotel has many stories.

I wonder who else has taken healing baths and had massages?

I enjoyed mine!

This is a resort town.

Scary stuff!

We brought home a few little reminders of Texas.

We hung our cowboy in the travel room and put our pins into the map.

The photographs are processed.

We will choose one to print and frame.

This was a very fun trip.

Aransas, Texas

2009-02-15T15:34:00.006-06:00

We came upon a flock of Sandhill Cranes
in the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge.
They were feeding in a grassy patch.
When we stopped they flew.
They are so beautiful.

We were told at the visitor center that a pair of Whooping Cranes were nesting on the refuge.
We climbed the observation tower and looked out but the birds we saw were very far away.
I am not sure I saw Whooping Cranes. I do so want to see them.
We are hoping to see some during the Spring migration.
I am planning a weekend trip in April to a refuge closer to home.

This is a large refuge with plenty of deer

and flocks of Black Vultures.

I was awed by them.

Turkey Vultures mingled in.

I think I have my photographs for Halloween cards.

It was here we saw the Javelina.

We saw our first "alive" Armadillo.

This friendly fellow came right up to us.

There were alligators also.

Much smaller than the pair we saw in Atascosa.

This marsh was accessible from a trail.

Nice to be up close to the turtles.

Many American Robins.

A little sweet bee buzzed me and my husband.
Bee whispers.
It was time for us to leave.

The visitors center was closing.
We needed to start heading north.

Boca Chica

2009-02-14T10:13:00.002-06:00

When a prescribed burn closed the wildlife drive
at Atascosa we decided to head over to
Boca Chica.

The pavement ended and we were out on the beach.

When Brown Pelicans flew over I gasped.
"Wow!"

We parked right away.
I had never driven on a beach before.

There were all sorts of cars on the beach.
I felt pleased to have seen any birds.

It was warm on the beach in the sun.

Living in the Mid-west means I seldom see shore birds.
The Ringed Billed Gulls were easy to identify!

The other shore birds I am not certain of.

As we drove back to the Inn we stopped a few times.

The Prickly Pears were starting to bloom.

Laguna Atascosa

2009-02-13T20:34:00.016-06:00

On the way to Laguna Atascosa, Texas,
we stopped to watch Roseate Spoonbills.

I believe this juvenile White Ibis enjoyed the company of the Spoonbill.

This area was near the road.

I saw abondoned tires and blowing trash.

The birds did not mind the passing cars.
They did weary of me taking photographs!

Roadrunners greeted us near the entrance of the refuge.

This refuge is made up of 46,000 acres at the southern tip of the Central Flyway.

7,000 acres are marshland, saltwater and freshwater.

We watch in wonder as this Sora fished.

The Common Yellow Throat did not seem to mind us.

Black-necked Stilts,

Northern Pintail ducks and

Glossy Ibis fed with a pair of alligators.

A Great Southern White flew about as we hiked.

I loved seeing the bugs!

We spotted a Tri-colored Heron

and a Green Jay taking a bath.

This was a wonderful birding day.

Santa Ana Wildlife Refuge

2009-02-12T21:06:00.002-06:00

The Santa Ana wildlife refuge
is concidered the gem of the region.
It is brimming with birds, butterflies and dragonflies.

Great Blue Herons were wading in road side pools on the drive to Santa Ana.

As were Great Egrets.

We stopped for photographs and a, "Hello."

We drove the "farm to market" and the "ranch to market"
roads when ever we could.

I saw many butterflies I had never seen before.
This looks to be a Ceraunus Blue.

A Queen was resting in the grass.

This beauty is not in my Texas butterfly guide.

Four Great Kiskadees made such a noise when we were birding.

The Mexican Bluewing nectered on grapefruit that the staff had placed for the Green Jays and for the Chachalacas.

The Black Crested Tufted Titmouse was so cute!

Dragonflies and damselflies

patrolled their territories.

Spanish moss dripped from the trees.

and Zebra Longwings nectered on wild ageratum.
Heaven on earth!

The Inn at Chachalaca Bend

2009-02-11T20:16:00.004-06:00

A flock of Chachalacas live at
The Inn at Chachalaca Bend.

I enjoyed them in the trees and on the grounds.

The Inn is located on 40 acres.

The mesquite fence inspired me!
I can do something similar in my gardens.

We explored the grounds.

Rain lilies were in bloom.

Huge prickly pears were scattered about.

I saw a few new to me butterflies.

I cannot find this one in my Butterflies of the Lower Rio Grande Valley book.

It was a joy to go to bed each night.

A joy to awake!

I am spoild by the sweet, freshly picked,

ruby red grapefruit we had for breakfast.

The way cook peeled and sectioned each fruit was so amazing.

This was welt in your mouth grapefreuit.

There were two different water sources on the property.

I enjoyed watching the Common Moorhens and all sorts of Herons and Egrets.

The inn keepers live on the property.

The mail boxes are fantastic!

The morning dew was caught in the rain chains.

Many song birds

and White Winged Doves to watch.

Turkey Vultures and Black Vultures

would circle in the afternoon and perch in the trees.

Hawks hunted

and Zebra Longwings roosted in the evenings.

I have many photographs of this remarkable place.

Wonderful memories of the birds and the butterflies and the inn keepers.

I can hardly wait to return!

San Antonio, Texas

2009-02-09T12:57:00.015-06:00

We arrived in San Antonio
in the late afternoon.

This bronze statue of San Antonio
was given to the city from the people in Portugal.

Perhaps they have a sister city in Portugal.

We found lodging on the River Walk.
Our balcony over looked the river.

A quick change of shoes and we were walking.
Temperatures were in the mid 60's.

Along the walk were tributes to the San Antonio river.
Names carved into the flesh of the cactus.

We could only stay a short time.

We enjoyed the art
and the music.

We watched a Southern Dogface butterfly find nectar
and a Double Crested Cormorant fish in the river.

White-winged Doves kept watch.

The Northern Mockingbird is the State bird of Texas.

We saw several while we were walking.

A mother Mallard duck took her chicks for a swim.

I have a fondness for baby ducks.

I have a fondness for San Antonio.

On Safari

2009-01-02T09:55:00.002-06:00

Christmas in Portland

2007-12-25T21:27:00.000-06:00

We stayed home.
We watched the birds.
We read new books and listened to music.

The House Wren found seed under the feeder.

The Northern Flickers found bugs.

The Robins ate berries.

We played cribbage while the fire crackled.
The Mujadarrah, lentils and rice with fried onions,
is simmering while I write. Brussels sprouts and carrots
with sesame seeds, are ready to compliment our Holiday meal.
Staying with gourmet cooks makes for delicious dining!

We leave tomorrow. We will miss these birds and the laughter.

Christmas Eve

2007-12-24T20:25:00.000-06:00

My daughter and I walked
in her neighborhood.

We listened to the Robins.
We listened to the Scrub Jays and the Crows.

We laughed with the Gulls.
Merry Christmas Eve.

A different sort of bird

2007-12-23T20:42:00.000-06:00

We took a drive in the rain.
We went to see the Spruce Goose.

The Evergreen Aviation Museum
contained many airplanes.

I did see birds.
Birds I do not know.

It rains in Portland, Oregon in December.

We are in the middle of a winter cribbage tourney.

We do not mind the rain.

Solstice

2007-12-22T22:31:00.001-06:00

We flew south to go north.

We watched the solstice sun rise.

We flew over the snow and ice.

We arrived in Portland, Oregon.
We arrive to hugs, laughter and flowers.
We began the Winter Cribbage Tournament.
We celebrated the Full Cold Moon with mugs of Kona coffee.

We are having fun.

We are creating memories.

We are sharing love.

Time to pack

2007-09-08T20:45:00.000-05:00

My husband ate wild blackberries
while we hiked in the woods.

Each morning and evening I watched the Swans.

At sunset the Swallows flew over.

We had a morning ferry to catch.
We packed our bags and said our farewells.
It was time to travel home.

Hike to the Lagoon

2007-09-08T20:23:00.000-05:00

The Great Blue Heron flew in while I was resting near the shore.

A River Otter swam and feed.

A small flock of Sandpipers flew in

I think this shore bird is a Phalarope.
Witty's Lagoon was a very busy place.

A day in the gardens

2007-09-07T20:55:00.000-05:00

Anniversary Dinner

2007-09-07T14:05:00.000-05:00

Sooke Harbour House Inn
has a remarkable restaurant.

They also have remarkable organic herb gardens.
From the gardens the chef picks edible flowers and herbs
to prepare creative gourmet meals.

We arrived early so we could tour the gardens.

Although I did not see any butterflies
I was pleased to see lots of bees.

Many of the perennial herbs here are annuals in my herb gardens.
I talked with one of the gardeners.
She and I talked about companion planting and climate change.
I asked about butterflies. She said many butterflies come to the gardens. She did not know the varieties.
Dinner was sublime.
Each course was beautifully presented. Our meal was nicely paced. We ate flowers.
I left full and inspired.

The Light House

2007-09-07T13:42:00.000-05:00

Near our B&B
the oldest light house on the
Pacific Coast of British Columbia
still warns ships of danger.

I was looking for butterflies.

I saw skippers.

A Pine White flew onto my shoulder.
I gently moved her to a flower.
Back to our room.
It was time to dress for anniversary dinner.

A crane fly greeted me on the balcony.

Great Blue Heron

2007-09-07T13:27:00.000-05:00

I spent many hours watching

the Great Blue Heron.

A solitary hunter and a magnificent bird with patience.

Indoor gardens

2007-09-07T13:08:00.000-05:00

The butterfly garden we visited is a habitat for
birds and butterflies
that are native to the tropics.

Here seed and berry eating birds live with the butterflies.

The Common Glass Wing is a resident of Pacific rain forests.

The Flamingos stayed near the water.

The Tailed Jays are green and black. Perfect coloration for the sun dappled forest they are common in.
I think I need to plan a trip to the tropics.

Butterfly Gardens

2007-09-07T12:44:00.000-05:00

We saw a sign for a butterfly garden.
We stopped and asked for directions.

This indoor garden is the one I had read about.
Right away a Leaf Mimic perched on my hat.

Even when I took my hat off the butterfly stayed.
I think it liked my hat.

This garden also was home for a few tropical birds.
The Ibis did not mind all the attention.

The Atlas Moth of Southeast Asia has the largest wing surface of any moth in the world. When the wings are closed they look like a snake's head.
As adults they do not feed; they attract mates with pheromones.
The Luna Moths in North America also are non-feeders as adults and attract their mates with pheromones.

Butterfly World

2007-09-06T10:20:00.000-05:00

A Large Tree Nymph came onto my shoulder.
She walked around with me while I greeted the other wonders of the tropics.

The Doris Longwing reminded me of our Monarchs.

The Blue Morpho dazzled our eyes.

My husband was patient and waited for the Blue Morpho to open her wings.
I was chatting with the other jewels.
I was so happy to see these darlings.

Tropical Butterflies

2007-09-06T10:13:00.000-05:00

We stopped at a Tropical Butterfly habitat.

The large Tree Nymphs

the Zebra Longwings,

the Postman

and the Orange Julia were a few of the tropical wonders we watched.

City of Totems

2007-09-06T09:59:00.000-05:00

We took a drive on our second day in British Columbia.

We stopped in Duncan on our way to see tropical butterflies.

This small city celebrates the First Nations.

I too have an animal totem.

My trip reminded me to honour my Totem.
I am inspired to build a totem.

Swans

2007-09-04T14:26:00.000-05:00

We were greeted at Birds of a Feather by a flock of
Mute Swans.

Sol Duc to Victoria

2007-09-04T14:11:00.000-05:00

The Sol Duc Hot Springs resort is near the Sol Duc River.
Here the chinoock and coho salmon ascend the river to spawn.
We hiked through old growth forest and watched the Sol Duc waterfall.
I wondered how any fish would ever be able to leap these falls.

It was time to pack the car and head to Port Angeles. Our time in Olympic National forest was too short. I made plans to return.
We had reservations on the Coho Ferry.

After an hour and half ferry ride we arrived in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

We were on our way to Birds of a Feather, a bed and breakfast.
Here we nested for the next seven days.

Shore Birds

2007-09-03T16:39:00.000-05:00

I need a field guide for Gulls.

Kalaloch Lodge by the sea

2007-09-03T16:33:00.000-05:00

We arrived at Kalaloch Lodge long before our rooms were ready.

We changed our shoes and went on a long beach walk.

The air was warm and the ocean cool.

Families played in the waves and near the birds.

We rested and watched the birds.

The end of the trail....

2007-09-03T16:25:00.000-05:00

was at the Quinault Mercantile.

I bought a hat that was made by an Quinault woman.
Later on our trip a Swan gave me a feather for my cap!

Lake Quinault Lodge

2007-09-03T16:20:00.000-05:00

We checked out of the lodge.
I made notes in my travel journal.
I would like to return soon.

Before leaving the temperate rain forest we went on one more hike.

The Lake

2007-09-02T12:45:00.000-05:00

A quiet approach,

respect of homes,

language,

and hunting grounds.

We coexist.

Earth time

2007-09-02T12:20:00.000-05:00

The forest tells it's story.
Walk softly.

Allow all the time you need.

I do not need to walk the world today.

I need to be quiet.

I need to listen.

Hiking

2007-09-02T12:09:00.000-05:00

We took two different trails on our first afternoon in the rain forest.
Our 3.2 mile hike was an easy walk in the woods.

We were slow and deliberate as we studied the undergrowth.
We began to see the relationships of ferns, fungi, moss and trees.

The waterfalls provided humidity but the air was cool.
High in the canopy we could hear the birds.
The sun was shining. The play of light and shadow was magical.

I came to listen to the forest.
I came to smell the forest floor.
I came to honor.

On the road

2007-09-01T15:49:00.000-05:00

We gave last hugs and waved goodbye.
We headed north.
Leg two of our Pacific Northwest adventure had begun.

Lovely coastal communities through Oregon and Washington State offered opportunities for coffee and iced drinks. We stopped at the Tourist Information Center when we reached Washington State. It is here we picked up our state map. When we, road trip, I always like stopping at the "I" some states call it the "?". I can learn about the natural history of an area, ask questions and pick up post cards. Long Beach, Washington, was preparing for their annual Kite Festival. I would have enjoyed staying but we had reservations and an afternoon hike planned. The weather was delightful, sunny and cool, so top down driving with the windows up made for pleasant full sky viewing. My hat kept my face shaded.

Our four hour drive was nicely paced, not too fast, not too slow.
We arrived before check-in time so we were able to drive a little into the forest. We began getting a feel for our area. Not very many roads are in the interior of Olympic National Forest. To experience the temperate rain forest we would be hiking.
A glimpse through the trees let us know it would be fine hiking.

We checked into our room, made reservations for dinner and packed the backpack. While we ate our tomato sandwiches, that I had packed from my daughter's house, we planned our afternoon hike. Lake Quinault Lodge is beautiful. The lake is pristine. Across the street is the Mercantile. I had a list of items I was hoping to find while on my trip. I always enjoy a new hat and I wear deerskin moccasins.

Sauvie Island

2007-08-20T11:58:00.000-05:00

A twenty minute drive
from downtown Portland is a shore birds habitat.

We watched the gulls and the herons.
Skippers visited the wild flowers.

An Osprey watched us.

Birds, butterflies, blooms, fresh peach cobbler, corn on the cob, top down birding, laughter and music; life in Portland is lovely.
Daughter's hugs, tomato sandwiches, fresh figs and Farmer's market, sweet sleep and theater: I will miss her.
Off to Olympic National Park.

Ommm......

2007-08-18T10:07:00.000-05:00

I look.

I listen.

I see my daughter.

She is laughing.

A Robin hunts for worms.

I am comfortable.

City Of Roses

2007-08-18T03:21:00.000-05:00

Portland, Oregon

is known as the City of Roses.

Rose gardens dot the city landscape.

It could also be known as the City of Hydrangeas.

Today I visited the Japanese Garden.

Packing

2007-08-14T14:43:00.000-05:00

I pack light.

I always think if I need something I can pick it up while I am away.
This is exciting.

My camera equipment is another story.
I need everything.
I bought another battery.
I am almost ready to leave on Holiday.