Today was one busy day. Yesterday, my partner made a deal on a generator,
but didn't pay for it until after talking to me. It was a 1200.00 generator, 8,000
watts, for 350.00. You bet I said Yes! We already lost power once for about
6 hours plus, and we have no desire to lose power to the point where our
refrigerator is affected--or the heat or air conditioning.
My partner started the day with a walk after dropping me off at the curb market.
They were having some sort of festival. In the Hendersonville, Asheville area,
a weekend is a good excuse to have a festival. I only bought some field peas
from the woman my partner calls Grandma, and some coconut cream cheese
bars from the same person I bought them from a while back. They are sheer
perfection.
When he came back from his walk, we headed to Asheville. On the way, we
got behind someone who had issues with driving. He was all over the road,
driving very slow, and at one point just stopped--and not a stop sign. He got
horned for that one. I would have done the same. He moved forward and then
leaped out of his SUV and commenced screaming at us. He called my partner
an "old man"--and he is seven years younger than myself. He was not fit--had
too much weight on him--and made the colossal mistake of assuming we were
intimidated by him. And he knew nothing about the art of fighting--he was
standing in front of the truck door. My partner could have had him down in less
than 5 minutes. But he showed restraint. The man was yelling, "Do you know
who I am? You really don't want to mess with me!" It was all I could do to keep
from mouthing off something irreverent and sassy. But I kept my mouth shut.
His wife was so distraught--he probably beat her up when he got home. He
struck me as that type. But the "Oh Yeah? You and whose army?" was flying
through my head.
After that, the rest of the day was very pleasant. We had a few things to pick up
from Walmarts and then on to pick up that generator, that is now living in the back
of his truck, encased in plastic, with a sheet of plywood on top for good measure
awaiting the arrival of his brother to assist in getting it down. It weighs about 300
lbs. We went to Ingles; I needed yogurt if I am to take all the antibiotics. There
was a list--and we didn't get home until 3:30 pm. I was exhausted by then, and
decided we could start the rest of the chores--regarding the fleas--tomorrow.
I had a bunch of mail--Bird and Bloom magazine came. I had to peruse it
before I napped. I ate some Lime yogurt and looked at the pictures mostly.
There was one of a hummer trying to run off a hawk. The hummer was very
unsuccessful.
And that is really all for today!
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Joys of Owning Cats and Catching Up in General
My cat, as you may recall, is allergic to fleas, so you can imagine my
horror at seeing a flea jump from her to me on my bed! Oh no--not
again. Oh yes, again. All the bed linens will be washed today, as well
as any other exposed clothing. Daisy gets a bath and a trip to the vet
as well. (That is probably where she got them!) All the dishes will go'
outside in boxes--as well as any boxed foodstuff. Cans can stay indoors.
Yes, it is time to bomb again.
And we are having company next weekend, so had planned to do some
cleaning, but not quite this much. My partner's mother, brother and his
kids are coming to visit. I am actually looking forward to that part--just
not to the flea intensive house cleaning. Oh well, the price of owning a
cat. I think she owns us really. And she is such a well-behaved and
loving cat. I am changing from Advantage 2 to Revolution for flea control.
I think it will give me, or rather Daisy, better coverage.
I did get sick again. I was sort of out of it for past 2 days; I'm feeling
better this morning despite little sleep. Still bug-phobic. This time,
though the symptoms were nearly the same, antibiotic was changed.
This time I am on Keflex for 10 days. My grandson became ill also,
with exactly the same set of symptoms. We are both on 10 days of
antibiotics--which will get me through to my "real" doctor's appointment.
The hummingbirds are still here--more numbers than ever. I have had to
clean and fill one of the three feeders already, and the other two are
getting low. For such little birds, they are surely eating a great deal.
Speaking of eating well, Frankie the Friendly Marsupial is eating quite
well. She/he especially enjoys left over pancakes with syrup. Frankie
definitely has a sweet tooth!
Wish me loads of fun as I go through the deflea process again.
All for now.
horror at seeing a flea jump from her to me on my bed! Oh no--not
again. Oh yes, again. All the bed linens will be washed today, as well
as any other exposed clothing. Daisy gets a bath and a trip to the vet
as well. (That is probably where she got them!) All the dishes will go'
outside in boxes--as well as any boxed foodstuff. Cans can stay indoors.
Yes, it is time to bomb again.
And we are having company next weekend, so had planned to do some
cleaning, but not quite this much. My partner's mother, brother and his
kids are coming to visit. I am actually looking forward to that part--just
not to the flea intensive house cleaning. Oh well, the price of owning a
cat. I think she owns us really. And she is such a well-behaved and
loving cat. I am changing from Advantage 2 to Revolution for flea control.
I think it will give me, or rather Daisy, better coverage.
I did get sick again. I was sort of out of it for past 2 days; I'm feeling
better this morning despite little sleep. Still bug-phobic. This time,
though the symptoms were nearly the same, antibiotic was changed.
This time I am on Keflex for 10 days. My grandson became ill also,
with exactly the same set of symptoms. We are both on 10 days of
antibiotics--which will get me through to my "real" doctor's appointment.
The hummingbirds are still here--more numbers than ever. I have had to
clean and fill one of the three feeders already, and the other two are
getting low. For such little birds, they are surely eating a great deal.
Speaking of eating well, Frankie the Friendly Marsupial is eating quite
well. She/he especially enjoys left over pancakes with syrup. Frankie
definitely has a sweet tooth!
Wish me loads of fun as I go through the deflea process again.
All for now.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Still Here
Yes, my tiny hummingbirds are still here despite the dips into the high 30's
and low 40's during the night. There are even more birds than before. I
put out a third feeder and the other 2 feeders are getting quite low, plus,
they have put quite a dent in the amount left in the new feeder. They are
still perching on the trees, preening and grooming and totally unconcerned
with date of the month and the approaching winter.
I am finally feeling better healthwise. I'm not sure how long this will last
as I took my last antibiotic today. I may or may not return to the Urgent
Care tomorrow. My grandson is also sick. He went to his pediatrician
today; he was diagnosed with a sinus infection and placed on antibiotics.
My partner is not feeling too well either.
All for tonight.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Clear and Cold
No enveloping mist shrouds the mountains this morning. It is clear--and cold.
I arose from bed and changed clothes; a pink fuzzy sweatshirt and warm soft
grey pants are keeping me warm. The temperature on the back deck, which is
covered, is 40. One hummer is making frequent trips to the feeder so as to
keep her body temperature up. There are no bugs out and about this morning.
I am continuing to fight this cold or whatever it is. The antibiotics seem to be
working. I have a voice instead of a labored whisper today. Yesterday, too
weak to do anything constructive, I perused my gardening books. I was a
bit overwhelmed. There is enough plants here, but not the kind of want. I
want the entire property to be ablaze with flowers all summer and into the fall.
Trying to pick the right flowers and shrubs to achieve that is more difficult than
one might think. I am starting with the area that is nearly in complete shade,
the area closest to the highway. I plan to plant lilies of the valley and yellow
primroses there. That will provide flowers, and an attractive ground cover.
I'll add circles of trilliums and other flowering plants and some young white
dogwood to the understory. That will not be much, but it will be a spring
start. As for bulbs, I will probably wait until next fall to plant the fall bulbs.
Or plant them on one o the porches, so it is easy for me to control the weather
conditions for them, and mulch and cover them easily. Any farther, except for
small trees that need to come down, that is it for fall endeavors. One step at
a time.
I'm almost scared to check my lettuce though it can withstand cold temperatures
and is more hardy than most edible crops, I still should have covered it. I was
just too sick to care.
Here are some more interesting hummingbird facts, again from The Hummingbird
Book by Donald and Lillian Stokes.
"A hummingbird's flight (or pectoral) muscles account for one quarter of its total
weight." If you've been lucky enough to have one land on your finger to eat at a
feeder, then you know that it feels like the weight of a single feather. They feel
nearly weightless.
Hummingbirds bathe and groom daily. They will fly through "sprinklers or spray
from a waterfall." They will intentionally take advantage of a soft rain to bathe
and groom; they have no problem flying when wet that I have noted. They will
also pick certain leaves and use those for a bathtub. It takes only a quarter inch
of water for a hummer to bathe in.
Ruby throated hummingbirds fly 500 miles nonstop across the Gulf of Mexico
on their migration. Before they get to the Gulf, they will stop, sometimes for
a week or so, and re-fuel, depending on how far away they have came. This is
how I came to have "skinny" hummers--they are resting and re-fueling for a bigger
journey.
"Hummingbirds are fiercely aggressive and will attack much larger birds, suchas
jays, or even hawks." A bird after my heart. Fierce and unafraid. Doesn't
say much about how wise this course of action is, but I admire their fierceness.
"Hummingbirds have no sense of smell, that we know of," and rely on sight to
find nectar. Yes, red is their favored color, but they will just as easily eat at
white flowers as I have witnessed with the butterfly bush this summer.
"Humminbirds do suck nectar. They have a long bill, and when drinking nectar,
the open their bills and extend their tongues and lick up the nectar at a rate of
13 licks per second." Per second! That is amazing to me.
I just read the part about ruby-throated hummingbirds migration patterns. It would
seem the books do not agree. This book has the northward migration as Late Feb.
to Mid-May and the southward migration as Late July to Late October. So I guess
the females are not so late after all. Thus far, I have seen none but the Ruby-Throated
species, it is documented that in November of last year, Rufous hummingbirds were
seen at feeders in Hendersonville.
The first time I ever saw hummingbirds was at my Uncle Gordons. There were so many.
I wanted to go and live there--on his mountain. But I was there rarely. At my cousin's
house, I was flogged by a turkey. Fortunately, it was traumatic enough to be erased
from my memory and did not interfere with my love of birds at all.
The second time that hummingbirds were part of my life was in the high country of
Colorado. The tiny apartment I lived in had a very long sprawling porch with hooks
for hummers about 4 feet apart. The birds would light easily on your fingers as long
as you stood still.
All for today.
I arose from bed and changed clothes; a pink fuzzy sweatshirt and warm soft
grey pants are keeping me warm. The temperature on the back deck, which is
covered, is 40. One hummer is making frequent trips to the feeder so as to
keep her body temperature up. There are no bugs out and about this morning.
I am continuing to fight this cold or whatever it is. The antibiotics seem to be
working. I have a voice instead of a labored whisper today. Yesterday, too
weak to do anything constructive, I perused my gardening books. I was a
bit overwhelmed. There is enough plants here, but not the kind of want. I
want the entire property to be ablaze with flowers all summer and into the fall.
Trying to pick the right flowers and shrubs to achieve that is more difficult than
one might think. I am starting with the area that is nearly in complete shade,
the area closest to the highway. I plan to plant lilies of the valley and yellow
primroses there. That will provide flowers, and an attractive ground cover.
I'll add circles of trilliums and other flowering plants and some young white
dogwood to the understory. That will not be much, but it will be a spring
start. As for bulbs, I will probably wait until next fall to plant the fall bulbs.
Or plant them on one o the porches, so it is easy for me to control the weather
conditions for them, and mulch and cover them easily. Any farther, except for
small trees that need to come down, that is it for fall endeavors. One step at
a time.
I'm almost scared to check my lettuce though it can withstand cold temperatures
and is more hardy than most edible crops, I still should have covered it. I was
just too sick to care.
Here are some more interesting hummingbird facts, again from The Hummingbird
Book by Donald and Lillian Stokes.
"A hummingbird's flight (or pectoral) muscles account for one quarter of its total
weight." If you've been lucky enough to have one land on your finger to eat at a
feeder, then you know that it feels like the weight of a single feather. They feel
nearly weightless.
Hummingbirds bathe and groom daily. They will fly through "sprinklers or spray
from a waterfall." They will intentionally take advantage of a soft rain to bathe
and groom; they have no problem flying when wet that I have noted. They will
also pick certain leaves and use those for a bathtub. It takes only a quarter inch
of water for a hummer to bathe in.
Ruby throated hummingbirds fly 500 miles nonstop across the Gulf of Mexico
on their migration. Before they get to the Gulf, they will stop, sometimes for
a week or so, and re-fuel, depending on how far away they have came. This is
how I came to have "skinny" hummers--they are resting and re-fueling for a bigger
journey.
"Hummingbirds are fiercely aggressive and will attack much larger birds, suchas
jays, or even hawks." A bird after my heart. Fierce and unafraid. Doesn't
say much about how wise this course of action is, but I admire their fierceness.
"Hummingbirds have no sense of smell, that we know of," and rely on sight to
find nectar. Yes, red is their favored color, but they will just as easily eat at
white flowers as I have witnessed with the butterfly bush this summer.
"Humminbirds do suck nectar. They have a long bill, and when drinking nectar,
the open their bills and extend their tongues and lick up the nectar at a rate of
13 licks per second." Per second! That is amazing to me.
I just read the part about ruby-throated hummingbirds migration patterns. It would
seem the books do not agree. This book has the northward migration as Late Feb.
to Mid-May and the southward migration as Late July to Late October. So I guess
the females are not so late after all. Thus far, I have seen none but the Ruby-Throated
species, it is documented that in November of last year, Rufous hummingbirds were
seen at feeders in Hendersonville.
The first time I ever saw hummingbirds was at my Uncle Gordons. There were so many.
I wanted to go and live there--on his mountain. But I was there rarely. At my cousin's
house, I was flogged by a turkey. Fortunately, it was traumatic enough to be erased
from my memory and did not interfere with my love of birds at all.
The second time that hummingbirds were part of my life was in the high country of
Colorado. The tiny apartment I lived in had a very long sprawling porch with hooks
for hummers about 4 feet apart. The birds would light easily on your fingers as long
as you stood still.
All for today.
Friday, September 21, 2012
Cold Front Moving In and a Tribute
There is a cold front moving in and, unless they left at dusk, the hummingbirds
are still here. They sure look like they weigh enough now to make the trip.
But I am not a bird. So what do I know? And if were one, I would more
resemble an injured or clumsy ostrich than a hummingbird. Maybe that is
why I like them so much--they are so NOT earthbound, and I wish I could
be more free, but I can't. Sometimes life is what it is, and one just has to
deal with it.
I am ill--have a terrible cold. The cough wakes me up and forces me out of
bed--so that I will eat cough drops and stop coughing. It is feeling more
like pneumonia as each day passes. I should know. I have had pneumonia
multiple times--and three different kinds. In 1986, I had mycoplasmic
pneumonia--it took nearly 6 months to recover from it. I would be fine,
and then get sick again. I have had bacterial pneumonia many times--the
most inconvenient--my first travel assignment. I left Wilmington NC in
November of 97 and before I left Tennessee, I had to stop at the clinic
and was given the bad news. Since I couldn't rest--had to drive at least
7 hours per day--it was a very long trip. The last time I had it, the strain
was viral. I was exposed to a patient that had a dry cough, and by the
next night, I knew I had Right Upper Lobe Pneumonia. That was the worst.
Everyone that got near that patient became sick. We nurses said it was
SARS--but no one would listen to us. One girl nearly died, and she was
only in her 30's. She developed lung abcesses. So in comparison to her,
I did well.
I went to the doctor today--an Urgent Care--with another PA. Who didn't
listen when I said I had an extensive history of pneumonia. She diagnosed
me with sinusitis--which does not make one cough until they feel they are
not going to be able to draw the next breath. She gave me Zithromax,
which will help as long as I am taking it. Maybe I can get through until I
see my doctor, who knows me and he also knows when I show up, I
usually have my diagnosis in hand. Only occasionally have I been incorrect.
OK--enough of sick talk.
My plans for cleaning the bird feeders this weekend are now on hold. They
can wait another week I suppose.
Now I want to pay tribute to my Uncle Gordon. He was 17 when he enlisted
to go fight in World War II. I believe he was Marine, but am not certain. He
ended up as a stretcher bearer at Iwo Jima. What he saw haunted him until he
died. I found out later that he was in the first wave at Guadacanal and he was
also at Okinawa and a few other other island battles. He was a flame
thrower in the cave holdouts. I learned these facts from my cousin. The
stretcher bearer--that was his last duty before coming home.
He lived in the mountains of Virginia, and he was mountain tough. But
could spin a yarn and have you in stitches from laughing so hard. And such
it was about the time he lassoed a bear. According to the tale, he had just
gotten off from work and was driving through town when he saw this drunk
lasso this bear. So he stopped to help the poor man, who was no match
for a bear. He got a lasso over the bear also, but the bear took off towards
him, so he ended up turning loose of the rope and started running. Then a third
man got a lasso over the bear, and my uncle was able to get hold of his rope
and between the three men and three trees, they held the bear there until animal
control got there. Dramatic and funny story--now for the real tale! My
cousin Mike enlightened me as to the facts. The bear had wandered off
from the circus. It was tame and trained. After they lassoed it with three
ropes, it was a bit perturbed by the situation--especially since it hadn't
bothered a soul. So it broke all three ropes. About then, his trainer
arrived and snapped a chain around his neck and led him back to the circus.
Both versions are good and funny. I am telling this because my uncle Gordon
could have shot the bear, but he didn't. Years and years later, he went out
to cut some wood in the cold of winter. After he finished loading his trailer,
one log moved, threatening to fall, so he stopped and got off the tractor, went
back to adjust the log, and the tractor was not quite in gear and started
rolling backwards. He was caught between a tree and the trailer. The pain
was so intense he passed out. His shoulder was crushed. He couldn't
stand up to walk, so he crawled and dragged himself towards the road.
It was quite a distance and he would pass out from the pain. When he woke
up, he knew he had to get to the road or he was going to freeze to death.
No one knew exactly where he was. He owned 200 acres, so that is a
lot of land to cover. He did make it to the road, and he was found and
taken to the hospital. He lived through the ordeal, but lost the use of one
arm.
I still miss him all these years later. I remember being at a Christmas gathering
and feeling so alone and lost. He came and sat beside of me and talked to
and said things would get better; I didn't believe him then, but he was right.
Being a teenager can be rough--especially if you're keeping secrets--and I
was.
Now I have a house and yard I truly love. Even if I don't live but a few more
years, this is a wonderful place to live. I am so in touch with nature and the
cycle of life and that is a good thing.
Here's to you, Gordon! Our loved ones never die as long as their memories
are cherished.
All for tonight
are still here. They sure look like they weigh enough now to make the trip.
But I am not a bird. So what do I know? And if were one, I would more
resemble an injured or clumsy ostrich than a hummingbird. Maybe that is
why I like them so much--they are so NOT earthbound, and I wish I could
be more free, but I can't. Sometimes life is what it is, and one just has to
deal with it.
I am ill--have a terrible cold. The cough wakes me up and forces me out of
bed--so that I will eat cough drops and stop coughing. It is feeling more
like pneumonia as each day passes. I should know. I have had pneumonia
multiple times--and three different kinds. In 1986, I had mycoplasmic
pneumonia--it took nearly 6 months to recover from it. I would be fine,
and then get sick again. I have had bacterial pneumonia many times--the
most inconvenient--my first travel assignment. I left Wilmington NC in
November of 97 and before I left Tennessee, I had to stop at the clinic
and was given the bad news. Since I couldn't rest--had to drive at least
7 hours per day--it was a very long trip. The last time I had it, the strain
was viral. I was exposed to a patient that had a dry cough, and by the
next night, I knew I had Right Upper Lobe Pneumonia. That was the worst.
Everyone that got near that patient became sick. We nurses said it was
SARS--but no one would listen to us. One girl nearly died, and she was
only in her 30's. She developed lung abcesses. So in comparison to her,
I did well.
I went to the doctor today--an Urgent Care--with another PA. Who didn't
listen when I said I had an extensive history of pneumonia. She diagnosed
me with sinusitis--which does not make one cough until they feel they are
not going to be able to draw the next breath. She gave me Zithromax,
which will help as long as I am taking it. Maybe I can get through until I
see my doctor, who knows me and he also knows when I show up, I
usually have my diagnosis in hand. Only occasionally have I been incorrect.
OK--enough of sick talk.
My plans for cleaning the bird feeders this weekend are now on hold. They
can wait another week I suppose.
Now I want to pay tribute to my Uncle Gordon. He was 17 when he enlisted
to go fight in World War II. I believe he was Marine, but am not certain. He
ended up as a stretcher bearer at Iwo Jima. What he saw haunted him until he
died. I found out later that he was in the first wave at Guadacanal and he was
also at Okinawa and a few other other island battles. He was a flame
thrower in the cave holdouts. I learned these facts from my cousin. The
stretcher bearer--that was his last duty before coming home.
He lived in the mountains of Virginia, and he was mountain tough. But
could spin a yarn and have you in stitches from laughing so hard. And such
it was about the time he lassoed a bear. According to the tale, he had just
gotten off from work and was driving through town when he saw this drunk
lasso this bear. So he stopped to help the poor man, who was no match
for a bear. He got a lasso over the bear also, but the bear took off towards
him, so he ended up turning loose of the rope and started running. Then a third
man got a lasso over the bear, and my uncle was able to get hold of his rope
and between the three men and three trees, they held the bear there until animal
control got there. Dramatic and funny story--now for the real tale! My
cousin Mike enlightened me as to the facts. The bear had wandered off
from the circus. It was tame and trained. After they lassoed it with three
ropes, it was a bit perturbed by the situation--especially since it hadn't
bothered a soul. So it broke all three ropes. About then, his trainer
arrived and snapped a chain around his neck and led him back to the circus.
Both versions are good and funny. I am telling this because my uncle Gordon
could have shot the bear, but he didn't. Years and years later, he went out
to cut some wood in the cold of winter. After he finished loading his trailer,
one log moved, threatening to fall, so he stopped and got off the tractor, went
back to adjust the log, and the tractor was not quite in gear and started
rolling backwards. He was caught between a tree and the trailer. The pain
was so intense he passed out. His shoulder was crushed. He couldn't
stand up to walk, so he crawled and dragged himself towards the road.
It was quite a distance and he would pass out from the pain. When he woke
up, he knew he had to get to the road or he was going to freeze to death.
No one knew exactly where he was. He owned 200 acres, so that is a
lot of land to cover. He did make it to the road, and he was found and
taken to the hospital. He lived through the ordeal, but lost the use of one
arm.
I still miss him all these years later. I remember being at a Christmas gathering
and feeling so alone and lost. He came and sat beside of me and talked to
and said things would get better; I didn't believe him then, but he was right.
Being a teenager can be rough--especially if you're keeping secrets--and I
was.
Now I have a house and yard I truly love. Even if I don't live but a few more
years, this is a wonderful place to live. I am so in touch with nature and the
cycle of life and that is a good thing.
Here's to you, Gordon! Our loved ones never die as long as their memories
are cherished.
All for tonight
Late Night Meanderings
I awakened to my phone ringing. This is not unusual for me; I know people
in all the time zones, and I don't mind being awakened. I started coughing
as soon as we hung up--I could barely talk as it was. This cold has taken
a distinct liking to my chest--curtailing my talking most definitely. I have
been sick to some degree or another since before I moved here. I tried
to see my physician once. They were just going live with a computer
system--and I couldn't see him. This Doc is one of the few I trust to treat
me. If I think my knowledge level is better than the doctor's, I switch.
I want someone smarter than myself because I come with complications.
Multiple allergies, serious ones, and strange and not so strange auto-immune
diseases. I only show up when absolutely necessary. I finally got to see
his PA--she fell in the category of not as smart as me. I took 2 rounds of
antibiotics and finally felt better--for about 3 weeks--then the sinus infection
returned. I had to go to my doctor today to pick up my prescription for
pain pills--and the person at the desk was worried that I had been sick on
and off since June, and managed to get me an Oct 5th appointment. The
previous appointment was for November. But I will have to weather another
Urgent Care to get whatever I got treated at least until this coughing stops.
The hummingbirds are still here. The one that was so skinny--well, she is
very plump now. Looks like a miniature football! So I would say it isn't
going to be long now till the females leave.
I talked with my sister today and she asked where the pictures of the house
were. I was a little confused as to what she meant until I thought about
it. She wanted the outside shots of the house, and there is still a lot to do
outside, so I didn't take any outside pics--except of the crepe myrtle
removal and the front porch.
I will try to get some pictures of the front of the house tomorrow, but
the back still needs a lot of TLC. So it will be a while. The downstairs
screened in porch, due to all the wet weather we have had, has an attack
of mold--that is just something I really don't think people would want to see!
My partner's mother and his brother are supposed to be coming up after the
first of October. So I imagine he'll have the back porch and a few other
things spiffied up by then.
I have had some learning experiences with my Rhododendron. Not good
ones either. After they bloom, you prune them. But if you wait until after
they have sprouted shoots with buds on the end, and then you prune, well
you can kiss those pretty flowers goodbye. I pruned some back like that,
but not all. They need serious pruning back, but it can wait. I am actually
hoping I can get into the master gardener program that starts in January.
This will be my second time. The first time I learned that I knew nothing.
And I didn't even want to learn the bug end of things. Owning a house
makes a huge difference. I want to learn the good bugs from the bad,
even though my natural inclination is to kill all bugs/insects/spiders. I am
trying to be more karmic about it. For me, even thinking this is huge.
I am reminded that all the bugs provide a very diet for the hummers
and the rest of the birds.
Speaking of birds again, not far from house is someone who has purple
martin houses, so maybe attracting them will not be so difficult. And we
will have bat houses too. But the first thing we are getting (Besides a new
kitchen spigot--ours has a leak--in the hot water of course, so that comes
first--as in tomorrow!) are worms. Part red wrigglers and part European
nightcrawlers--this is for a happy garden and compost pile. I plan to find
us some good old fashioned horse manure. People raise horses near here;
I am sure they wouldn't mind if we mucked out a stable or two. I haven't
done that in a very long time. (Truthfully, I can only supervise the mucking
process now.) My partner is building the worms new homes.
I priced throw pillows the other day--and said, "That's it; I will make my
own." The price for one single pillow is $14.00 and up. I have looked
at pillow patterns,but now I want to quilt them, both sides. I know they
will look better than the purchased ones--unless they are hand made--and
I prefer my hands to be the ones to make them.
That is all for tonight.
in all the time zones, and I don't mind being awakened. I started coughing
as soon as we hung up--I could barely talk as it was. This cold has taken
a distinct liking to my chest--curtailing my talking most definitely. I have
been sick to some degree or another since before I moved here. I tried
to see my physician once. They were just going live with a computer
system--and I couldn't see him. This Doc is one of the few I trust to treat
me. If I think my knowledge level is better than the doctor's, I switch.
I want someone smarter than myself because I come with complications.
Multiple allergies, serious ones, and strange and not so strange auto-immune
diseases. I only show up when absolutely necessary. I finally got to see
his PA--she fell in the category of not as smart as me. I took 2 rounds of
antibiotics and finally felt better--for about 3 weeks--then the sinus infection
returned. I had to go to my doctor today to pick up my prescription for
pain pills--and the person at the desk was worried that I had been sick on
and off since June, and managed to get me an Oct 5th appointment. The
previous appointment was for November. But I will have to weather another
Urgent Care to get whatever I got treated at least until this coughing stops.
The hummingbirds are still here. The one that was so skinny--well, she is
very plump now. Looks like a miniature football! So I would say it isn't
going to be long now till the females leave.
I talked with my sister today and she asked where the pictures of the house
were. I was a little confused as to what she meant until I thought about
it. She wanted the outside shots of the house, and there is still a lot to do
outside, so I didn't take any outside pics--except of the crepe myrtle
removal and the front porch.
I will try to get some pictures of the front of the house tomorrow, but
the back still needs a lot of TLC. So it will be a while. The downstairs
screened in porch, due to all the wet weather we have had, has an attack
of mold--that is just something I really don't think people would want to see!
My partner's mother and his brother are supposed to be coming up after the
first of October. So I imagine he'll have the back porch and a few other
things spiffied up by then.
I have had some learning experiences with my Rhododendron. Not good
ones either. After they bloom, you prune them. But if you wait until after
they have sprouted shoots with buds on the end, and then you prune, well
you can kiss those pretty flowers goodbye. I pruned some back like that,
but not all. They need serious pruning back, but it can wait. I am actually
hoping I can get into the master gardener program that starts in January.
This will be my second time. The first time I learned that I knew nothing.
And I didn't even want to learn the bug end of things. Owning a house
makes a huge difference. I want to learn the good bugs from the bad,
even though my natural inclination is to kill all bugs/insects/spiders. I am
trying to be more karmic about it. For me, even thinking this is huge.
I am reminded that all the bugs provide a very diet for the hummers
and the rest of the birds.
Speaking of birds again, not far from house is someone who has purple
martin houses, so maybe attracting them will not be so difficult. And we
will have bat houses too. But the first thing we are getting (Besides a new
kitchen spigot--ours has a leak--in the hot water of course, so that comes
first--as in tomorrow!) are worms. Part red wrigglers and part European
nightcrawlers--this is for a happy garden and compost pile. I plan to find
us some good old fashioned horse manure. People raise horses near here;
I am sure they wouldn't mind if we mucked out a stable or two. I haven't
done that in a very long time. (Truthfully, I can only supervise the mucking
process now.) My partner is building the worms new homes.
I priced throw pillows the other day--and said, "That's it; I will make my
own." The price for one single pillow is $14.00 and up. I have looked
at pillow patterns,but now I want to quilt them, both sides. I know they
will look better than the purchased ones--unless they are hand made--and
I prefer my hands to be the ones to make them.
That is all for tonight.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Storm, Power Outage, and Hummingbirds
Night before last we were under a Tornado watch. I woke up at 0300 and
the wind was fierce. Rain was falling in hard pelting sheets. I stayed up awhile.
Listening to the wind and rain. I'm not scared of storms. Not even a little.
I've been through a number of hurricanes--the worst was Fran, a Cat 4--and
she was wicked! On the way to work, we watched one of those green
interstate signs sail by as if gravity no longer existed. We were stocked on
ice and water. One cooler was full of the most pricy meats and cheeses.
The second cooler was full of sodas and beer. At noon we still had telephone,
no power. And the hurricane party began in earnest. Friends of my partner
dropped over. He was a contractor then and knew a lot of people. We
grilled steaks and had baked potatoes. We had a lovely meal while in the
eye. Meanwhile, the hospital wanted me there an hour ago. So after eating,
he drove me to work and he went back to his party. The next morning,
we nurses walked out into an unfamiliar world. There was literally no
evidence of the existence of all the side streets. Trees were down everywhere.
The damage was amazing. This was the second hurricane in 6 weeks.
Bertha was only a Cat 1, but she did damage--and all those trees with
loosened roots from Bertha, they came down plus others. And of course,
with the hurricane sitting on top of us for nearly 24 hours, we had major
flooding. There are pictures of people in the lower lying areas getting around
by boat. A co-worker went 3 months before her water and power was
restored. We went 3 weeks without power. Why so long? Fran, like
Bertha before her, removed the meter box from the house. And all
electrical contractors are busy after a hurricane, so we just got in line
with a lot of others. The beaches were closed for 30 days--the first day
they re-opened, I was there. What a sight it was! Someone had left
a really cool red sports car parked 1 block from the water. It was still
covered with sand. Huge houses were missing. A motel 2 streets over
from the beach was missing. There was these 3 really OLD small trailers
that had been there forever--I was rooting for them to be there. They were
ocean-front, so their odds of survival were slim. But they were still there!
Their owners were there scooping sand out of their abodes with
shovels. The beach was pristine, washed clean of all human contact.
Anyway, back to power outages--We we one of thousands who awoke
to no power. We puttered around for a while. I was worried about
the hummingbirds. I saw not one. We finally left and went to the library
where I returned some books and checked out some more--yeah,
more! I dearly love books. This time I got some books on plants and
houseplant, planning garden, and pruning. And quilting.
We returned 1 and half hours later--still, no pwer or no signs
of hummingbirds. We left and went into town for lunch. We ate
at the Dugout--I hesitantly ordered fries again--these were perfect!
I was glad I risked it. Mike's on Main--well, I'll never go there
again. After finishing our meal, we walked across the street and
Kilwin's fudge shop grabbed me--I love fudge and pralines--and
pralines were fresh made today. Did I mention I loved pralines?
Today they had pumpkin nut fudge! I love pumpkin anything!
So I bought fudge and one praline. Ok, I confess. I bought a
slice of plain chocolate fudge and one of pumpkin nut. I eat it
by the fourth of a slice over a period of time. If one could live
off of fudge and not gain weight, that would be ideal!
When we got home, the power was on, and the hummers were
back. Busy, busy, flying to and from feeders. I wonder where
the tiny birds rode out the storm. They're sure tough to be so
tiny.
All for today
the wind was fierce. Rain was falling in hard pelting sheets. I stayed up awhile.
Listening to the wind and rain. I'm not scared of storms. Not even a little.
I've been through a number of hurricanes--the worst was Fran, a Cat 4--and
she was wicked! On the way to work, we watched one of those green
interstate signs sail by as if gravity no longer existed. We were stocked on
ice and water. One cooler was full of the most pricy meats and cheeses.
The second cooler was full of sodas and beer. At noon we still had telephone,
no power. And the hurricane party began in earnest. Friends of my partner
dropped over. He was a contractor then and knew a lot of people. We
grilled steaks and had baked potatoes. We had a lovely meal while in the
eye. Meanwhile, the hospital wanted me there an hour ago. So after eating,
he drove me to work and he went back to his party. The next morning,
we nurses walked out into an unfamiliar world. There was literally no
evidence of the existence of all the side streets. Trees were down everywhere.
The damage was amazing. This was the second hurricane in 6 weeks.
Bertha was only a Cat 1, but she did damage--and all those trees with
loosened roots from Bertha, they came down plus others. And of course,
with the hurricane sitting on top of us for nearly 24 hours, we had major
flooding. There are pictures of people in the lower lying areas getting around
by boat. A co-worker went 3 months before her water and power was
restored. We went 3 weeks without power. Why so long? Fran, like
Bertha before her, removed the meter box from the house. And all
electrical contractors are busy after a hurricane, so we just got in line
with a lot of others. The beaches were closed for 30 days--the first day
they re-opened, I was there. What a sight it was! Someone had left
a really cool red sports car parked 1 block from the water. It was still
covered with sand. Huge houses were missing. A motel 2 streets over
from the beach was missing. There was these 3 really OLD small trailers
that had been there forever--I was rooting for them to be there. They were
ocean-front, so their odds of survival were slim. But they were still there!
Their owners were there scooping sand out of their abodes with
shovels. The beach was pristine, washed clean of all human contact.
Anyway, back to power outages--We we one of thousands who awoke
to no power. We puttered around for a while. I was worried about
the hummingbirds. I saw not one. We finally left and went to the library
where I returned some books and checked out some more--yeah,
more! I dearly love books. This time I got some books on plants and
houseplant, planning garden, and pruning. And quilting.
We returned 1 and half hours later--still, no pwer or no signs
of hummingbirds. We left and went into town for lunch. We ate
at the Dugout--I hesitantly ordered fries again--these were perfect!
I was glad I risked it. Mike's on Main--well, I'll never go there
again. After finishing our meal, we walked across the street and
Kilwin's fudge shop grabbed me--I love fudge and pralines--and
pralines were fresh made today. Did I mention I loved pralines?
Today they had pumpkin nut fudge! I love pumpkin anything!
So I bought fudge and one praline. Ok, I confess. I bought a
slice of plain chocolate fudge and one of pumpkin nut. I eat it
by the fourth of a slice over a period of time. If one could live
off of fudge and not gain weight, that would be ideal!
When we got home, the power was on, and the hummers were
back. Busy, busy, flying to and from feeders. I wonder where
the tiny birds rode out the storm. They're sure tough to be so
tiny.
All for today
Monday, September 17, 2012
More About Hummingbirds
Food for the Hummers:
In case I neglected to mention this, the best sugar solution for the birds is
home made, but on the down side, it has 0 preservatives in it, so it lasts
only 48 hours. So if you live in a place where the temperature gets above
60 degrees, and you are up to your ears in work, it might be kinder to use
the prepared solutions with red dye in it. No one wants to kill these lovely
birds--but 48 hours is the max in the summertime and part of the fall for this
solution. After 48 hours, it becomes dangerous for the birds to consume!
Here is the recipe for a more healthy nectar:
1 part sugar (table sugar)
4 parts water
Boil for 1-2 minutes
Cool.
Store extra in refrigerator.
Boiling the solution helps retard fermentation. Never substitute honey for
table sugar. Honey ferments easily and can cause a fungus that can be
fatal to hummingbirds.
I am not in favor of the use of red dye, but the prepared solutions are handy
for busy people. I am a realist. If you cannot commit to changing the liquid
every 48 hours, then it would be kinder to use a prepared solution. The
research results are still out on the matter of the red dye--but over 48 hous
in hot weather can cause death to the hummingbirds. So, please, if you
make your own nectar, change it every 48 hours.
Also clean feeders every 2-3 days. Vinegar is a good cleanser to use. If
you see mold, you may want to use a tiny amount of Clorox--this MUST
be rinsed out thoroughly as Clorox is poison. For small hard to reach areas,
pipe cleaners and small bottle brushes.
Use an ant guard with your feeder to keep out unwanted visitors. These are
sold at Lowes and are very self explanatory. The ants crawl down the rope
and end up in a moat of water. Oops, drowned ants! If you have problem
with bees or wasps, rub a tiny bit of vaseline or salad or mineral to the feeding
ports with a Q-tip.
Hang feeders in the shade and away from the wind. Mine hang on my porches.
If you have never had hummingbirds in your area, plant the flowers they are
attracted to. They are especially fond of red flowers, so when you choose
your first flowers, pick red! They are fond of butterfly bushes--and mine
was white and they still frequented it. This year I plan to have some red ones.
They are attracted to the following: Cross Vine, Red Trumpet Vine, Cardinal
Flower, Wild Columbine, Fireweed, Trumpet Honeysuckle, Red Iris, Canada
Lily and the Wood Lily, Bee Balm, Purple Bergamot, Red Morning Glory (this
one I plant NOT to plant.), Texas Plume, Smooth Phlox, Wild Sweet William,
Fire Pinks, Scarlet Lychnis, Snapdragons, in particular, the Indian Paintbrush,
and the Red Turtlehead, and Pale Jewelweed and Spotted Jewelweed.
Interesting Facts for today--"If an average man had the metabolism of a
hummingbird, he would have to eat 285 pounds of hamburger every day
to maintain his weight."
A hummingbird's heart beats 1,260 times a minute.
A resting hummingbird takes 250 breath a minute.
And that is all on these lovely birds for today.
The source for this information is The Hummingbird Book co-authored by
Donald and Lillian Stokes. It is a wonderful book and I highly recommend
it.
All for today.
In case I neglected to mention this, the best sugar solution for the birds is
home made, but on the down side, it has 0 preservatives in it, so it lasts
only 48 hours. So if you live in a place where the temperature gets above
60 degrees, and you are up to your ears in work, it might be kinder to use
the prepared solutions with red dye in it. No one wants to kill these lovely
birds--but 48 hours is the max in the summertime and part of the fall for this
solution. After 48 hours, it becomes dangerous for the birds to consume!
Here is the recipe for a more healthy nectar:
1 part sugar (table sugar)
4 parts water
Boil for 1-2 minutes
Cool.
Store extra in refrigerator.
Boiling the solution helps retard fermentation. Never substitute honey for
table sugar. Honey ferments easily and can cause a fungus that can be
fatal to hummingbirds.
I am not in favor of the use of red dye, but the prepared solutions are handy
for busy people. I am a realist. If you cannot commit to changing the liquid
every 48 hours, then it would be kinder to use a prepared solution. The
research results are still out on the matter of the red dye--but over 48 hous
in hot weather can cause death to the hummingbirds. So, please, if you
make your own nectar, change it every 48 hours.
Also clean feeders every 2-3 days. Vinegar is a good cleanser to use. If
you see mold, you may want to use a tiny amount of Clorox--this MUST
be rinsed out thoroughly as Clorox is poison. For small hard to reach areas,
pipe cleaners and small bottle brushes.
Use an ant guard with your feeder to keep out unwanted visitors. These are
sold at Lowes and are very self explanatory. The ants crawl down the rope
and end up in a moat of water. Oops, drowned ants! If you have problem
with bees or wasps, rub a tiny bit of vaseline or salad or mineral to the feeding
ports with a Q-tip.
Hang feeders in the shade and away from the wind. Mine hang on my porches.
If you have never had hummingbirds in your area, plant the flowers they are
attracted to. They are especially fond of red flowers, so when you choose
your first flowers, pick red! They are fond of butterfly bushes--and mine
was white and they still frequented it. This year I plan to have some red ones.
They are attracted to the following: Cross Vine, Red Trumpet Vine, Cardinal
Flower, Wild Columbine, Fireweed, Trumpet Honeysuckle, Red Iris, Canada
Lily and the Wood Lily, Bee Balm, Purple Bergamot, Red Morning Glory (this
one I plant NOT to plant.), Texas Plume, Smooth Phlox, Wild Sweet William,
Fire Pinks, Scarlet Lychnis, Snapdragons, in particular, the Indian Paintbrush,
and the Red Turtlehead, and Pale Jewelweed and Spotted Jewelweed.
Interesting Facts for today--"If an average man had the metabolism of a
hummingbird, he would have to eat 285 pounds of hamburger every day
to maintain his weight."
A hummingbird's heart beats 1,260 times a minute.
A resting hummingbird takes 250 breath a minute.
And that is all on these lovely birds for today.
The source for this information is The Hummingbird Book co-authored by
Donald and Lillian Stokes. It is a wonderful book and I highly recommend
it.
All for today.
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Hummer Update and a Trip to Town
The female hummers are still here. I had one "buzz" me when I went on the
deck this morning. They are able to make themselves sound like a giant
hornet or other large insect. She came straight at me, completely unafraid,
until she was 12 inches or less away. Of course, my camera was inside.
She hovered in front of me for about 30 seconds and then took off. I came
inside so she could go to the feeder in peace, which she did. They have all
gained weight, including the skinny one.
I was sick with a short lived virus for the past 3 days; today is the first day I
have felt even half way well. I was ready to get out of the house today--if
only for a while. My partner had been busy. All the long limbs from the
cutting of the crepe myrtle tree were gathered up and taken to stand to dry
out for the winter. The smaller limbs were gathered and placed in the wheel
barrow--to dry out also. I am hoping to get some nice wood and make some
macrame hangings on them. I made some interesting ones back in the 70's,
but my life became so complicated when I went to college with a first grader
in tow that creative processes were put on hold for a long time.
The first place we went was to the Etowah library, which is new and quite nice.
I asked what the limit was on checking out books; it was 75. I was astounded.
75! I wish she had never told me. I checked out about 25 books--I found 2
on hummingbirds alone. And quite a few more bird and bird related books.
I found some on quilting. The first and only quilt I ever made my mother
insisted that I give it to my cousin Debbie; I was making the quilt for my first
born grandchild. But my mother won out. I gave the quilt to my cousin--who
didn't speak to me then and still doesn't.
My first quilting project will be a throw for the recliner in the sunroom. Due
to Raynauds disease, my feet get unusually cold in the winter--even with socks,
I usually have a blanket handy when curled up in the chair.
I also found some remodeling books--since we plan to remodel most of the
house at some point in time. And recipe books! I love to cook though I do
less of it now than I used to do. I still collect recipes (even have a yahoo
group with all the recipes housed in the files in precise catergories--it
is a TreasuryofGoodEats). I wore myself out in the library. Still weak and
a little congested today, but no fever.
Next, we went into town to eat. It was a disappointment. Over priced
burgers and fries--that were not tasty at all. Mikes on Main did not live
up to its reputation. Could not even come close to French Fryz,
located on this side of Asheville--They have the late 50's and early 60's
type design. The burgers are all fresh and the fries are to die for. Nice
puffy buns--not the grilled buns saturated in god knows what kind of fat.
And Heinz ketchup sets on every table. As far ketchup goes, it's Heinz
or forget about it. My partner cooks gourmet food; I've become quite
a food snob, thanks to him. But when I say a restaurant is excellent, it
is. Guaranteed!
On the way back to the car, we stopped at The Hospice House Store.
What do you think we bought? Books! I found a 2 volume set of
Successful Gardening books--each is about 4 inches thick--and the
cost was only 4.40 for both. I got one on Herbs, and one on bats.
I caught a bat once, fished it out of the pool. My mother was appalled.
It died before she got home from work. I was 14 at the time--there
were no exotic pet vets nearby. It had been in the water too long.
It's not really surprising that I ended up becoming a nurse. I always
wanted to save hurt creatures or help my friends when they had
problems.
All for tonight.
deck this morning. They are able to make themselves sound like a giant
hornet or other large insect. She came straight at me, completely unafraid,
until she was 12 inches or less away. Of course, my camera was inside.
She hovered in front of me for about 30 seconds and then took off. I came
inside so she could go to the feeder in peace, which she did. They have all
gained weight, including the skinny one.
I was sick with a short lived virus for the past 3 days; today is the first day I
have felt even half way well. I was ready to get out of the house today--if
only for a while. My partner had been busy. All the long limbs from the
cutting of the crepe myrtle tree were gathered up and taken to stand to dry
out for the winter. The smaller limbs were gathered and placed in the wheel
barrow--to dry out also. I am hoping to get some nice wood and make some
macrame hangings on them. I made some interesting ones back in the 70's,
but my life became so complicated when I went to college with a first grader
in tow that creative processes were put on hold for a long time.
The first place we went was to the Etowah library, which is new and quite nice.
I asked what the limit was on checking out books; it was 75. I was astounded.
75! I wish she had never told me. I checked out about 25 books--I found 2
on hummingbirds alone. And quite a few more bird and bird related books.
I found some on quilting. The first and only quilt I ever made my mother
insisted that I give it to my cousin Debbie; I was making the quilt for my first
born grandchild. But my mother won out. I gave the quilt to my cousin--who
didn't speak to me then and still doesn't.
My first quilting project will be a throw for the recliner in the sunroom. Due
to Raynauds disease, my feet get unusually cold in the winter--even with socks,
I usually have a blanket handy when curled up in the chair.
I also found some remodeling books--since we plan to remodel most of the
house at some point in time. And recipe books! I love to cook though I do
less of it now than I used to do. I still collect recipes (even have a yahoo
group with all the recipes housed in the files in precise catergories--it
is a TreasuryofGoodEats). I wore myself out in the library. Still weak and
a little congested today, but no fever.
Next, we went into town to eat. It was a disappointment. Over priced
burgers and fries--that were not tasty at all. Mikes on Main did not live
up to its reputation. Could not even come close to French Fryz,
located on this side of Asheville--They have the late 50's and early 60's
type design. The burgers are all fresh and the fries are to die for. Nice
puffy buns--not the grilled buns saturated in god knows what kind of fat.
And Heinz ketchup sets on every table. As far ketchup goes, it's Heinz
or forget about it. My partner cooks gourmet food; I've become quite
a food snob, thanks to him. But when I say a restaurant is excellent, it
is. Guaranteed!
On the way back to the car, we stopped at The Hospice House Store.
What do you think we bought? Books! I found a 2 volume set of
Successful Gardening books--each is about 4 inches thick--and the
cost was only 4.40 for both. I got one on Herbs, and one on bats.
I caught a bat once, fished it out of the pool. My mother was appalled.
It died before she got home from work. I was 14 at the time--there
were no exotic pet vets nearby. It had been in the water too long.
It's not really surprising that I ended up becoming a nurse. I always
wanted to save hurt creatures or help my friends when they had
problems.
All for tonight.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Hummingbird Update and Green Growing Things
All the male huimmingbirds are gone; only the females are left. I saw one
female I hadn't seen previously. She was bigger, had a longer tail, and very
thin, not at all like our little chubby females. I wondered if she had taken a
break to eat and regain weight and was possibly one of the ones migrating
from New York or Canada. She was totally focused on eating.
After breakfast I went and checked nectar levels in both feeders. The
one on the front porch is quite large and still had quite a bit in it. The
smaller feeder on the deck only showed an inch and a half of nectar.
I thought that would be sufficient, especially given that the males gone.
I was wrong. At lunch it was completely empty. That is a lot of
hummingbird size sips! I cleaned the feeder and refilled it. There
were a large number of hummers visiting the feeder. More than before.
Once again, I am reminded that today could be their last day, and I
have so enjoyed having them.
My lettuce is about 2 inches high. I still don't know if it is getting enough
sunlight. The stems are slight, thin. The radishes are 3 inches with
appropriate size stems.
The plants were re-potted today--the big ones. I now have 2 huge snake
plants now. My aunt Myrtle, the oldest of the sisters in my Mom's family,
used to say that snake plants on the front porch would bring one good
luck. My Grandpa was a gardener because he had to be, but he loved
it. He planned his crops for each year. I would go and visit in the summer.
It was wonderful. I had 2 male cousins that I was close to in age. I was
a tomboy and preferred climbing trees to playing with dolls. My
Grandpa had three apple trees, 2 yellow cherry trees, 1 small red cherry
tree, and a really huge black cherry tree. He had a quarter acre in
strawberries alone. He also had raspberries and blackberries and a
goodly sized grapevine. A kid's paradise. I was always sad to leave.
My Grandpa and I, well, we understood each other. I always listened
to him, never backtalked--we were all afraid of him. And he never laid
a hand on any of us. He was my hero. (He also led a wildcat strike
once upon a time, but that is another story.) My Grandpa may have
grown the garden, but my Grandma sure knew how to cook! Fresh
biscuits with churned butter and honey from his hives, fresh from the
garden corn on the cob, fresh green beans, and fried chicken as only
she prepared it.
My cousin, Mike, gave me my first lesson in the realities of life. I was
7 and was 11. He took me fishing, my first time ever. And I caught
a fish--it was beautiful, had rainbow colors on it. He told me it was
a Sunfish. I wanted to keep the fish--take it back home and put it
some water. He very seriously told me that if I did that, the fish would
die. I said no, that I would take care of it and it wouldn't die. He let
me have my way--as a way to teach me a lesson about wild creatures--
they need to be free, in their own environment. I took the fish home,
proud that I had caught it, and my uncles and aunts told me the same
thing. I refused to believe them. I put the fish in a washpan with well
water in it. It swam around. I was happy. I just knew the fish was
happy too. The next morning my happy fish was dead, and I knew
I was responsible. I cried and cried. But I learned an important
truth. Catching a wild creature and trying to cage it up wasn't the
right thing to do. It was selfish. I never forgot that lesson.
All for tonight.
female I hadn't seen previously. She was bigger, had a longer tail, and very
thin, not at all like our little chubby females. I wondered if she had taken a
break to eat and regain weight and was possibly one of the ones migrating
from New York or Canada. She was totally focused on eating.
After breakfast I went and checked nectar levels in both feeders. The
one on the front porch is quite large and still had quite a bit in it. The
smaller feeder on the deck only showed an inch and a half of nectar.
I thought that would be sufficient, especially given that the males gone.
I was wrong. At lunch it was completely empty. That is a lot of
hummingbird size sips! I cleaned the feeder and refilled it. There
were a large number of hummers visiting the feeder. More than before.
Once again, I am reminded that today could be their last day, and I
have so enjoyed having them.
My lettuce is about 2 inches high. I still don't know if it is getting enough
sunlight. The stems are slight, thin. The radishes are 3 inches with
appropriate size stems.
The plants were re-potted today--the big ones. I now have 2 huge snake
plants now. My aunt Myrtle, the oldest of the sisters in my Mom's family,
used to say that snake plants on the front porch would bring one good
luck. My Grandpa was a gardener because he had to be, but he loved
it. He planned his crops for each year. I would go and visit in the summer.
It was wonderful. I had 2 male cousins that I was close to in age. I was
a tomboy and preferred climbing trees to playing with dolls. My
Grandpa had three apple trees, 2 yellow cherry trees, 1 small red cherry
tree, and a really huge black cherry tree. He had a quarter acre in
strawberries alone. He also had raspberries and blackberries and a
goodly sized grapevine. A kid's paradise. I was always sad to leave.
My Grandpa and I, well, we understood each other. I always listened
to him, never backtalked--we were all afraid of him. And he never laid
a hand on any of us. He was my hero. (He also led a wildcat strike
once upon a time, but that is another story.) My Grandpa may have
grown the garden, but my Grandma sure knew how to cook! Fresh
biscuits with churned butter and honey from his hives, fresh from the
garden corn on the cob, fresh green beans, and fried chicken as only
she prepared it.
My cousin, Mike, gave me my first lesson in the realities of life. I was
7 and was 11. He took me fishing, my first time ever. And I caught
a fish--it was beautiful, had rainbow colors on it. He told me it was
a Sunfish. I wanted to keep the fish--take it back home and put it
some water. He very seriously told me that if I did that, the fish would
die. I said no, that I would take care of it and it wouldn't die. He let
me have my way--as a way to teach me a lesson about wild creatures--
they need to be free, in their own environment. I took the fish home,
proud that I had caught it, and my uncles and aunts told me the same
thing. I refused to believe them. I put the fish in a washpan with well
water in it. It swam around. I was happy. I just knew the fish was
happy too. The next morning my happy fish was dead, and I knew
I was responsible. I cried and cried. But I learned an important
truth. Catching a wild creature and trying to cage it up wasn't the
right thing to do. It was selfish. I never forgot that lesson.
All for tonight.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Hummers Still Here--Or Are They
Hummingbirds are such solitary creatures that they don't even migrate
together--as I once thought. Leaving from North Carolina, they are all
usually gone by mid September, but they will stay longer if weather
conditions are warm or if they haven't gained enough weight. They
(on average) double their weight prior to migration. They may weigh
as much as 6.0 grams when migrating. They log in about 19 hours of
flight, arriving at their first stopping point and weighing only 2.5 grams.
It is amazing to think of such a tiny bird flying that far, and they have
been doing such since the Ice Ages. They are carnivores and prey on insects
for their protein intake. Nectar from flowers and feeders is only the fuel
they use to fly around in pursuit on insects.
Although this is done in 2 week period, they do so in a solitary fashion.
Even mating is unusual. The male hummers per more effort and time
in the courtship than the mating process. When they mate, it takes
about 4 seconds, then each goes its separate way. The female builds
her nest, and the male seeks another female. Actually it is a survival
mechanism. If the male stayed with the female, it would attract
predators to the area of her nest.
You may see groups of hummers migrating together, but that does not
mean they are litter mates, mates, or of any relationship at all. Just
as the birds here now feeding may not be the original birds; the may be
Canadian cousins stopping for a feeding break. Each of these birds is
born with the knowledge to fatten up and then to migrate. If too young
or ill or underweight, they may stop migration in South Florida and risk
wintering there.
These tiny unafraid birds fascinate and amaze me. I will be saddened
to see them leave, but when they arrive back, I will have many more
feeders out for my tiny fierce birds.
(Note: Most of this migration information came from hummingbirds.net
and the mating information, from World of Hummingbirds.com I have
just begun to get my feet wet in the world of hummingbird knowledge.)
together--as I once thought. Leaving from North Carolina, they are all
usually gone by mid September, but they will stay longer if weather
conditions are warm or if they haven't gained enough weight. They
(on average) double their weight prior to migration. They may weigh
as much as 6.0 grams when migrating. They log in about 19 hours of
flight, arriving at their first stopping point and weighing only 2.5 grams.
It is amazing to think of such a tiny bird flying that far, and they have
been doing such since the Ice Ages. They are carnivores and prey on insects
for their protein intake. Nectar from flowers and feeders is only the fuel
they use to fly around in pursuit on insects.
Although this is done in 2 week period, they do so in a solitary fashion.
Even mating is unusual. The male hummers per more effort and time
in the courtship than the mating process. When they mate, it takes
about 4 seconds, then each goes its separate way. The female builds
her nest, and the male seeks another female. Actually it is a survival
mechanism. If the male stayed with the female, it would attract
predators to the area of her nest.
You may see groups of hummers migrating together, but that does not
mean they are litter mates, mates, or of any relationship at all. Just
as the birds here now feeding may not be the original birds; the may be
Canadian cousins stopping for a feeding break. Each of these birds is
born with the knowledge to fatten up and then to migrate. If too young
or ill or underweight, they may stop migration in South Florida and risk
wintering there.
These tiny unafraid birds fascinate and amaze me. I will be saddened
to see them leave, but when they arrive back, I will have many more
feeders out for my tiny fierce birds.
(Note: Most of this migration information came from hummingbirds.net
and the mating information, from World of Hummingbirds.com I have
just begun to get my feet wet in the world of hummingbird knowledge.)
Sunday Day Trip
My grandson's MRI was on Monday and we were all feeling anxious. He requires
sedation for many procedures, and with sedation on a little kid comes a certain level
of anxiety. Once again, my partner came through for all of us. Another day trip, this
one was more for my daughter than us. It was a much cooler day, and therefore,
quite pleasant.
We went again to Bat Cave--stopping first at Grandpa's Apples. We purchased drinks
and 2 apple doughnuts, fresh made there. The doughnuts had apples in them; they were
the cake variety of doughnuts, deep fried, and rolled in granulated sugar. Extremely
tasty. If you are going that way, be sure and stop--they are worth it. I took pictures,
of course, which I will show at the end of post.
We stopped in Bat Cave to take pictures of the river--it's so clear. I took a picture of
a duck on a rock. And one of a goodly sized yellow squash. I couldn't figure out why
anyone would throw a squash in the river, but there it was.
Moving onward to Chimney Rock, I did take a really good picture of it this time. My
daughter was loving the trip and busily planning a trip for herself and my grandson.
Currently he is with his Dad every weekend, so she takes him to his many appointments
and to school, but misses out on all the fun weekend activities.
We drove all the way to Lake Lure. Lake Lure saddened me. All that clean rushing
water from the Broad River enters the Lake and is promptly polluted and turned
a strange shade of green. My partner said it was from all the run off from the houses,
and the proliferation of boats.
On the way back we stopped at a small giftshop which housed some fabulous gifts.
I found some of old opaque green salt and pepper shakers for $12.00 a set and
cobalt blue candy dish with the lid shaped like cat curled in a circle sleeping. I let
him choose, since he was so nice as to bring us on this trip. He chose the cat, and it
resides on my bookshelf.
We made one last stop before coming home and that was for Daisy (and me). She's
been having hairball problems and her previous medication wasn't working. Daisy
is part Maine Coon, so her hair is unusually long. And she sheds 365 days a year.
The medication is organic, comes in a tube, and contains Soybean oil, Vegetable
oil, Cod Liver oil, Flaxseed oil, Vitamin E oil, Lecithin, Sorbitol, Beeswax, Maple
and Chicken flavor, and Cellulose. The name of it is Laxatone. I give 1/2 teaspoon
in her food daily, and this has solved the problem. Just in case someone might be
having similar problems with their furry friends. Most are flavored tuna--my Daisy
will not touch anything with tuna flavor. I think she was born with the knowledge
of mercury contamination.
Today I was a vegetable. Two days in a row of long drives and walking around
more than usual-plus the added stress of my grandson's MRI, my knees and back
were killing me. I could barely walk--or stay awake. My Raynaud's had
kicked in again. I ate very healthy all day, attempting to give my body good
sources of nutrition and vitamins, but I still ended up sleeping most of the day and
hobbling about for the rest of the day. Hopefully, tomorrow will find me feeling
some better.
Of interest, I did not see a single humming bird today. I'm not assuming they
have migrated because I was asleep most of the day. I will check again
tomorrow before I announce their migration.
I received information on Purple Martins today. There is lot of upkeep to having
them--more than just having the house for them. There is concern with heat, cold,
and keeping predators away from them. I have from now until March to prepare
for them.
Pictures Follow!
Domestic Turkey at roadside stand.
All for today.
sedation for many procedures, and with sedation on a little kid comes a certain level
of anxiety. Once again, my partner came through for all of us. Another day trip, this
one was more for my daughter than us. It was a much cooler day, and therefore,
quite pleasant.
We went again to Bat Cave--stopping first at Grandpa's Apples. We purchased drinks
and 2 apple doughnuts, fresh made there. The doughnuts had apples in them; they were
the cake variety of doughnuts, deep fried, and rolled in granulated sugar. Extremely
tasty. If you are going that way, be sure and stop--they are worth it. I took pictures,
of course, which I will show at the end of post.
We stopped in Bat Cave to take pictures of the river--it's so clear. I took a picture of
a duck on a rock. And one of a goodly sized yellow squash. I couldn't figure out why
anyone would throw a squash in the river, but there it was.
Moving onward to Chimney Rock, I did take a really good picture of it this time. My
daughter was loving the trip and busily planning a trip for herself and my grandson.
Currently he is with his Dad every weekend, so she takes him to his many appointments
and to school, but misses out on all the fun weekend activities.
We drove all the way to Lake Lure. Lake Lure saddened me. All that clean rushing
water from the Broad River enters the Lake and is promptly polluted and turned
a strange shade of green. My partner said it was from all the run off from the houses,
and the proliferation of boats.
On the way back we stopped at a small giftshop which housed some fabulous gifts.
I found some of old opaque green salt and pepper shakers for $12.00 a set and
cobalt blue candy dish with the lid shaped like cat curled in a circle sleeping. I let
him choose, since he was so nice as to bring us on this trip. He chose the cat, and it
resides on my bookshelf.
We made one last stop before coming home and that was for Daisy (and me). She's
been having hairball problems and her previous medication wasn't working. Daisy
is part Maine Coon, so her hair is unusually long. And she sheds 365 days a year.
The medication is organic, comes in a tube, and contains Soybean oil, Vegetable
oil, Cod Liver oil, Flaxseed oil, Vitamin E oil, Lecithin, Sorbitol, Beeswax, Maple
and Chicken flavor, and Cellulose. The name of it is Laxatone. I give 1/2 teaspoon
in her food daily, and this has solved the problem. Just in case someone might be
having similar problems with their furry friends. Most are flavored tuna--my Daisy
will not touch anything with tuna flavor. I think she was born with the knowledge
of mercury contamination.
Today I was a vegetable. Two days in a row of long drives and walking around
more than usual-plus the added stress of my grandson's MRI, my knees and back
were killing me. I could barely walk--or stay awake. My Raynaud's had
kicked in again. I ate very healthy all day, attempting to give my body good
sources of nutrition and vitamins, but I still ended up sleeping most of the day and
hobbling about for the rest of the day. Hopefully, tomorrow will find me feeling
some better.
Of interest, I did not see a single humming bird today. I'm not assuming they
have migrated because I was asleep most of the day. I will check again
tomorrow before I announce their migration.
I received information on Purple Martins today. There is lot of upkeep to having
them--more than just having the house for them. There is concern with heat, cold,
and keeping predators away from them. I have from now until March to prepare
for them.
Pictures Follow!
 |
| Nearly invisible duck on rock across the river |
 |
| Squash in Broad River |
 |
| Chimney Rock |
 |
| Lake Lure |
 |
| Green Waters of Lake Lure |
 |
| Motorcycle my daughter thought was cool |
All for today.
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Cooler Day
When my daughter arrived home at 0600, she said it was only 55 outside degrees.
Now, at 1200, it is cool, windy, with lots of yellow leaves falling. Perhaps today
will be the last day here for the little hummers. One little male flew towards the
window and then stooped, hovering, looking in as to say, "Thanks for the nectar;
see you next year."
It is a beautiful day--blue skies with a few puffy white clouds. The kind of day
speaks of fall.
My daughter has never been to Bat Cave--I think today is a fabulous opportunity
to remedy that!
Now, at 1200, it is cool, windy, with lots of yellow leaves falling. Perhaps today
will be the last day here for the little hummers. One little male flew towards the
window and then stooped, hovering, looking in as to say, "Thanks for the nectar;
see you next year."
It is a beautiful day--blue skies with a few puffy white clouds. The kind of day
speaks of fall.
My daughter has never been to Bat Cave--I think today is a fabulous opportunity
to remedy that!
Saturday, September 8, 2012
New Bird and a Daytrip
The sun is setting and a golden mist hangs over the mountains. A quiet and
peaceful time.
The hummingbirds are still here; they have really bulked up this past week,
so I know it isn't long until migration.
I saw a new bird yesterday morning: Summer Tanager. Really gorgeous
rich red, deeper red than a Cardinal. It was catching wasps. I love
birds that help me out.
Yesterday I realized that a friend and classmate had died last year. I was
stricken. He had wanted us to see each other one last time. He was
planning to be at the re-union (high school re-union) in 2010, but he
didn't come. I later learned he was in the hospital. He made it through
that crisis and said he was feeling great. He and his ex-wife reconciled,
and I was under the impression that conversations with me might be
misconstrued by her, so I hung back and let things be for a while.
I contacted him finally, only to receive no reply--so I started to be
concerned. We had been friends since high school. The kind of friends
that share secrets--which was unusual for me to trust anyone that much.
Years later, after his first bypass surgery, he tracked me down via another
classmate. And we resumed our friendship like the time never existed.
To find out he had died was not a total shock--I knew that was the
eventual outcome. But I thought we would see each other at least once.
I talked at length with his sister and that helped a great deal, but I will
still miss him. He was a gentle soul with a romantic heart and always had
time to listen--especially when we were younger. As we grew older, I
listened to his health problems, shared positive stories, and tried to
encourage him.
My partner knew I had the blues today, so planned a day trip to Black
Mountain via Highway 64 (through Bat Cave and Chimney Rock) and
then backtracking to Highway 9. We stopped at the curb market,
and at a "Pick your Own" veggie place. Would you believe there was
even a groupon for that? And we stopped at a store that sold cider
made in Hendersonville. We ended up at the Morning Glory Cafe
for a late lunch. It was thoroughly pleasant day--just out enjoying
nature--as much as I can now.
I took a lot of pictures--some were taken from inside the car, so they
have imperfections, to say the least. Pictures follow, starting with one
of the Summer Tanager.
Summer Tanager (male)-They love to eat wasps!
Louise--Maker of the beautiful rugs--She has been making these rugs since she
was 12 years old.
This was taken from inside of the car--We're at "The Farm"--a pick your own
veggie place. My partner picked corn, beans, zucchini, eggplant, 2 pumpkins,
and some tomatoes. This summer has been rough on crops. First, there was the late
freeze that hurt the apple orchards. Then day after day of rain. Too much rain
makes for mushy tomatoes!
Taken from inside of car. This is the cider place we stopped at to buy a gallon
of apple cider that was made locally.
I love river scenes--especially ones where the water is rushing and tumbling over
rocks. I tried to get every angle possible.
Not only is this pretty, but it has trout in it!
I wanted to wade barefooted in these waters badly, but those days are gone.
At least I can say I have waded in a lot of rivers in a lot of states--including,
on a dare, 8000 feet up in the Rockies!
A gift shop seen and pictured from inside the car in Bat Cave. Just love that name.
Reminds me of the Adams Family.
A very difficult to see view of Chimney Rock. The sun was in my eyes. I was
shooting blind.
A very rare part of Highway 9 that is straight--most of Highway 9 is switchback
after switchback. Beautiful views.
At the Morning Glory Cafe in Black Mountain NC. I love their bacon, lettuce
and fried green tomato sandwiches.
All for today.
peaceful time.
The hummingbirds are still here; they have really bulked up this past week,
so I know it isn't long until migration.
I saw a new bird yesterday morning: Summer Tanager. Really gorgeous
rich red, deeper red than a Cardinal. It was catching wasps. I love
birds that help me out.
Yesterday I realized that a friend and classmate had died last year. I was
stricken. He had wanted us to see each other one last time. He was
planning to be at the re-union (high school re-union) in 2010, but he
didn't come. I later learned he was in the hospital. He made it through
that crisis and said he was feeling great. He and his ex-wife reconciled,
and I was under the impression that conversations with me might be
misconstrued by her, so I hung back and let things be for a while.
I contacted him finally, only to receive no reply--so I started to be
concerned. We had been friends since high school. The kind of friends
that share secrets--which was unusual for me to trust anyone that much.
Years later, after his first bypass surgery, he tracked me down via another
classmate. And we resumed our friendship like the time never existed.
To find out he had died was not a total shock--I knew that was the
eventual outcome. But I thought we would see each other at least once.
I talked at length with his sister and that helped a great deal, but I will
still miss him. He was a gentle soul with a romantic heart and always had
time to listen--especially when we were younger. As we grew older, I
listened to his health problems, shared positive stories, and tried to
encourage him.
My partner knew I had the blues today, so planned a day trip to Black
Mountain via Highway 64 (through Bat Cave and Chimney Rock) and
then backtracking to Highway 9. We stopped at the curb market,
and at a "Pick your Own" veggie place. Would you believe there was
even a groupon for that? And we stopped at a store that sold cider
made in Hendersonville. We ended up at the Morning Glory Cafe
for a late lunch. It was thoroughly pleasant day--just out enjoying
nature--as much as I can now.
I took a lot of pictures--some were taken from inside the car, so they
have imperfections, to say the least. Pictures follow, starting with one
of the Summer Tanager.
was 12 years old.
veggie place. My partner picked corn, beans, zucchini, eggplant, 2 pumpkins,
and some tomatoes. This summer has been rough on crops. First, there was the late
freeze that hurt the apple orchards. Then day after day of rain. Too much rain
makes for mushy tomatoes!
Taken from inside of car. This is the cider place we stopped at to buy a gallon
of apple cider that was made locally.
rocks. I tried to get every angle possible.
Not only is this pretty, but it has trout in it!
I wanted to wade barefooted in these waters badly, but those days are gone.
At least I can say I have waded in a lot of rivers in a lot of states--including,
on a dare, 8000 feet up in the Rockies!
A gift shop seen and pictured from inside the car in Bat Cave. Just love that name.
Reminds me of the Adams Family.
A very difficult to see view of Chimney Rock. The sun was in my eyes. I was
shooting blind.
A very rare part of Highway 9 that is straight--most of Highway 9 is switchback
after switchback. Beautiful views.
At the Morning Glory Cafe in Black Mountain NC. I love their bacon, lettuce
and fried green tomato sandwiches.
All for today.
Friday, September 7, 2012
Too Much Research
I'm not certain about the Blue Grosbeak and Painted Bunting. Different books
describe and picture both differently. So I am not counting them yet. Yes, I
saw birds looking exactly as those depicted. But I need still another look.
And as for butterflies, I still have been unable to tell if the blackbutterfly is
indeed a PipeVine (very poisonous, not that I planned to eat them)
Swallowtail or a Black Swallowtail or a Spicebush--all 3 are very similar.
The yellow ones are Tiger Swallowtails; I am positive on that one. The orange
ones are Monarchs. But the black ones still confound me.
describe and picture both differently. So I am not counting them yet. Yes, I
saw birds looking exactly as those depicted. But I need still another look.
And as for butterflies, I still have been unable to tell if the blackbutterfly is
indeed a PipeVine (very poisonous, not that I planned to eat them)
Swallowtail or a Black Swallowtail or a Spicebush--all 3 are very similar.
The yellow ones are Tiger Swallowtails; I am positive on that one. The orange
ones are Monarchs. But the black ones still confound me.
Thursday, September 6, 2012
More on Birds and Sightings
While I was starting to write this post, a small female hummingbird lit on a
different branch of the plum tree. I tried to get a picture of her; I don't think
my camera was cooperative though. The leaves on the tree are much larger
than these little hummers. She flew towards the feeder and I tried to move
quietly to that window. She was a sassy one. She only hesitated a split second
before flying to the window and looking at me. And I fudged the camera
and didn't get the shot!
While re-potting three plants, some larger hummingbirds came to the feeder
and basically ignored me. No camera--and covered with dirt!
After cleaning up, resting, I spotted several new birds: a female blue grosbeak.
The is a red rustic shade, similar but different from the female cardinal. And
I have seen plenty of cardinals, male and female, and plenty of robins.
Female Blue Grosbeak
Female Painted Bunting--looked like a large olive canary!
Eastern Phoebe
Brown Thrasher
White Breasted Nuthatch
All for today!
different branch of the plum tree. I tried to get a picture of her; I don't think
my camera was cooperative though. The leaves on the tree are much larger
than these little hummers. She flew towards the feeder and I tried to move
quietly to that window. She was a sassy one. She only hesitated a split second
before flying to the window and looking at me. And I fudged the camera
and didn't get the shot!
While re-potting three plants, some larger hummingbirds came to the feeder
and basically ignored me. No camera--and covered with dirt!
After cleaning up, resting, I spotted several new birds: a female blue grosbeak.
The is a red rustic shade, similar but different from the female cardinal. And
I have seen plenty of cardinals, male and female, and plenty of robins.
All for today!
Finally!
a male. The feeder obscures his ruby neck. This is the one that is the least afraid of me.
He flashes his red neck at me trying to frighten me away. I named this one Redneck.
He is outside my window grooming now.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Dirty Work
I finally planted the lettuce, A Mesclun mix, in one of the planters on the railing.
I thought I would never get it full of potting soil. Thanks to my partner, it now
has its own sprinkle bottle--a half liter water bottle with tiny holes drilled in the
lid--so I won't wash the seed away, or drown them. It worked perfectly!
Next, I tackled the re-potting of the snake plant. The plant is about 2 feet
high, and for me heavy. I started by putting the new potting soil in the much
larger container. Unaccustomed to this activity, I required frequent breaks
just to get enough dirt in the new container to move the snake plant. There
was a problem--it was root-bound and wouldn't give up the container. It
was about to win when I laid it on its side and stated beating the side of the
too small container with my spade. Then the bottom--and it loosened. By
then, I think the plant could have picked me up easier than I could have it.
There was some doubt on my part as What was going to end up in that large
container--me or the plant--but I did manage to get it in. I did take a break
then and practiced breathing!
I still had to finish filling the dirt in around the plant. That took about 20 min.
Then I had move my pitiful root-bound palm to the container that the snake
plant had been in. That didn't take nearly as long as the snakeplant trasplant.
Then everyone got a nice long drink of water--including me.
How dirty did I get--very! Enough to warrant a shower!
I thought I would never get it full of potting soil. Thanks to my partner, it now
has its own sprinkle bottle--a half liter water bottle with tiny holes drilled in the
lid--so I won't wash the seed away, or drown them. It worked perfectly!
Next, I tackled the re-potting of the snake plant. The plant is about 2 feet
high, and for me heavy. I started by putting the new potting soil in the much
larger container. Unaccustomed to this activity, I required frequent breaks
just to get enough dirt in the new container to move the snake plant. There
was a problem--it was root-bound and wouldn't give up the container. It
was about to win when I laid it on its side and stated beating the side of the
too small container with my spade. Then the bottom--and it loosened. By
then, I think the plant could have picked me up easier than I could have it.
There was some doubt on my part as What was going to end up in that large
container--me or the plant--but I did manage to get it in. I did take a break
then and practiced breathing!
I still had to finish filling the dirt in around the plant. That took about 20 min.
Then I had move my pitiful root-bound palm to the container that the snake
plant had been in. That didn't take nearly as long as the snakeplant trasplant.
Then everyone got a nice long drink of water--including me.
How dirty did I get--very! Enough to warrant a shower!
Monday, September 3, 2012
New Bird Sighting!
The plum tree (the nearly dead one) is the favorite perch for one of the
hummingbirds. Today it was joined by another bird that liked to perch.
It was gray with a light colored front and some markings on its wings.
I went through book after book trying to identify it. No luck. Finally,
I picked up my smallest book, which was divided by colors, and there,
under the gray section, was the Eastern Phoebe.
I read the characteristics to my partner: "A sparrow sized bird often
seen on the end of a dead branch. (check!) It sits in wait for a passing
insect, flies out to catch it, then returns to the same branch. (check! We
watched the bird do this three times--of course, we couldn't see the bug,
so wondered what the bird was doing.) This process is called hawking.
Has a habit of pumping its tail up and down and spreading its when perched,
(check!)
I can officially add this bird to my list of birds.
The hummingbirds are NOT rufous, but ruby throated hummers, the ones most
common in this area.
hummingbirds. Today it was joined by another bird that liked to perch.
It was gray with a light colored front and some markings on its wings.
I went through book after book trying to identify it. No luck. Finally,
I picked up my smallest book, which was divided by colors, and there,
under the gray section, was the Eastern Phoebe.
I read the characteristics to my partner: "A sparrow sized bird often
seen on the end of a dead branch. (check!) It sits in wait for a passing
insect, flies out to catch it, then returns to the same branch. (check! We
watched the bird do this three times--of course, we couldn't see the bug,
so wondered what the bird was doing.) This process is called hawking.
Has a habit of pumping its tail up and down and spreading its when perched,
(check!)
I can officially add this bird to my list of birds.
The hummingbirds are NOT rufous, but ruby throated hummers, the ones most
common in this area.
More Bird Books and Info
The second book I bought was Feed the Birds--which has recipes for
goodies in it. Did you know that orioles love oranges? I didn't. I will be sure to
have a feeder just for orioles. Of interest, the book was originally from the
Smithsonian Museum Shops. Still has the original, still in plastic, red foodbag
for bird feeding in the back flap.
The next book is The Birder's Handbook--no pictures in this one, but heavy
on information regarding birds and habits. This book is meant to be used in
conjunction with a field guide.
The Hummingbirds and Butterflies book I purchased the previous Thursday
is an excellent source of information regarding what attracts hummers and
butterflies. From what I have been reading, our hummers will take flight
headed to Mexico and Central America within the next few weeks.
The book What You Should Know About the Purple Martin had some
erroneous information within it. According to the Purple Martin Society,
who listed the studies involved, purple martins eat flying bugs except for
mosquitos. I will continue to research this.
The Wisdom of Birds is more on the level of a textbook, referring back to
people in the past and their theories. The newest information surprised me.
Female birds have the hormone, oestrogen. Male bird characteristics are
not determined by testosterone, but by the absence of oestrogen. If a
female bird, perhaps by fault of a diseased ovary, finds herself without
oestrogen, she will take on male characteristics. This is college level type
of textbook,so I will be going slowly through it.
After all the leaves and yardwork (mostly pruning) is done, then I will plan
next years flowers based on what is attracted to them. In the book about
the hummingbird, the author related cutting her fuschias back for the winter;
I thought they were annuals only. So more studying needs to be done as
well as a consultation with a master gardener.
goodies in it. Did you know that orioles love oranges? I didn't. I will be sure to
have a feeder just for orioles. Of interest, the book was originally from the
Smithsonian Museum Shops. Still has the original, still in plastic, red foodbag
for bird feeding in the back flap.
The next book is The Birder's Handbook--no pictures in this one, but heavy
on information regarding birds and habits. This book is meant to be used in
conjunction with a field guide.
The Hummingbirds and Butterflies book I purchased the previous Thursday
is an excellent source of information regarding what attracts hummers and
butterflies. From what I have been reading, our hummers will take flight
headed to Mexico and Central America within the next few weeks.
The book What You Should Know About the Purple Martin had some
erroneous information within it. According to the Purple Martin Society,
who listed the studies involved, purple martins eat flying bugs except for
mosquitos. I will continue to research this.
The Wisdom of Birds is more on the level of a textbook, referring back to
people in the past and their theories. The newest information surprised me.
Female birds have the hormone, oestrogen. Male bird characteristics are
not determined by testosterone, but by the absence of oestrogen. If a
female bird, perhaps by fault of a diseased ovary, finds herself without
oestrogen, she will take on male characteristics. This is college level type
of textbook,so I will be going slowly through it.
After all the leaves and yardwork (mostly pruning) is done, then I will plan
next years flowers based on what is attracted to them. In the book about
the hummingbird, the author related cutting her fuschias back for the winter;
I thought they were annuals only. So more studying needs to be done as
well as a consultation with a master gardener.
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Curb Market
Before the festival yesterday I went to the Curb Market--that is its real name
and it's been here since 1924. No Joke! It is a wonderful place filled with
handmade crafts, baked goods, a little bit of everything you can think of.
curbmarket.com
I bought some squash with 1/2 zucchini--A new blend yielding sweet and
tasty small squash--color is half green and half yellow. Even if we grow
our own next, I'll still return to buy from her.
The next vendor was selling homemade rugs--her name was Louise and she
has been making and selling these rugs since she was twelve years old.
She told me she sold her first one at the market for a quarter. That person
turned around and sold it for $1.25. Now a small one sells for 15.00--and the
more interesting larger ones are $25.00. She had some gorgeous blue ones
and some made from denim. She showed me a picture of her loom. We
talked for quite a while.
I enjoy talking to people, so I asked questions of each person that I could.
The next booth displayed multiple varieties of goat cheese--I tasted the
Spiced Chevre, which was delicious. The owner said his wife milked the
goats daily and he made the cheese. I also learned that "chevre" is French
for goat cheese! The name of his business is Vineyard's Edge Dairy--
their email is
vineyardsedge@bellsouth.net
I talked with a jewelry maker and told her about beadsandmore--a group
that buys everything wholesale. She wrote down my name for referral and
the name of the group. If she follows through, she'll save a lot of money.
The group is huge, around 1400 members, so our discounts are major.
I tried to recall each vender's name that I talked with, but it was impossible.
One offered to teach me to crochet--which, oddly, is the only craft I've
attempted that actually made me tense.
I stopped next at a baked goods booth--wish I could recall their names. I
bought 4 coconut cream cheese bars that were sinful! That is how delicious
they were. My partner is allergic to coconut--I love it. So I will be getting
my coconut fix from these guys every Saturday!
Going back to the festival, I did buy one thing from the baked goods booth--
It was an apple muffin--OMG--it was soooo good! Just the right amount
of cinnamon--it was bursting with flavor--and woe, I only bought one!
I went into several stores, browsing. But when I entered the Joy of Books,
a used bookstore, and asked where the books about birds were, I knew
my spending money was gone!
The first book that caught my eye was A Hummingbird in my House by
Arnette Heidcamp. It is the true story of the rescue of a left behind
hummingbird in upstate New York. She was passionate about
hummingbirds, luckily for little Squeak, a young male juvenile--too
young to migrate. The book is filled with pictures and knowledge about
hummingbirds and their habbits.
Nektar-Plus is a complete hummingbird, complete with vitamins and
protein. I will search it out and see if it is available.
More about bird books later.
and it's been here since 1924. No Joke! It is a wonderful place filled with
handmade crafts, baked goods, a little bit of everything you can think of.
curbmarket.com
I bought some squash with 1/2 zucchini--A new blend yielding sweet and
tasty small squash--color is half green and half yellow. Even if we grow
our own next, I'll still return to buy from her.
The next vendor was selling homemade rugs--her name was Louise and she
has been making and selling these rugs since she was twelve years old.
She told me she sold her first one at the market for a quarter. That person
turned around and sold it for $1.25. Now a small one sells for 15.00--and the
more interesting larger ones are $25.00. She had some gorgeous blue ones
and some made from denim. She showed me a picture of her loom. We
talked for quite a while.
I enjoy talking to people, so I asked questions of each person that I could.
The next booth displayed multiple varieties of goat cheese--I tasted the
Spiced Chevre, which was delicious. The owner said his wife milked the
goats daily and he made the cheese. I also learned that "chevre" is French
for goat cheese! The name of his business is Vineyard's Edge Dairy--
their email is
vineyardsedge@bellsouth.net
I talked with a jewelry maker and told her about beadsandmore--a group
that buys everything wholesale. She wrote down my name for referral and
the name of the group. If she follows through, she'll save a lot of money.
The group is huge, around 1400 members, so our discounts are major.
I tried to recall each vender's name that I talked with, but it was impossible.
One offered to teach me to crochet--which, oddly, is the only craft I've
attempted that actually made me tense.
I stopped next at a baked goods booth--wish I could recall their names. I
bought 4 coconut cream cheese bars that were sinful! That is how delicious
they were. My partner is allergic to coconut--I love it. So I will be getting
my coconut fix from these guys every Saturday!
Going back to the festival, I did buy one thing from the baked goods booth--
It was an apple muffin--OMG--it was soooo good! Just the right amount
of cinnamon--it was bursting with flavor--and woe, I only bought one!
I went into several stores, browsing. But when I entered the Joy of Books,
a used bookstore, and asked where the books about birds were, I knew
my spending money was gone!
The first book that caught my eye was A Hummingbird in my House by
Arnette Heidcamp. It is the true story of the rescue of a left behind
hummingbird in upstate New York. She was passionate about
hummingbirds, luckily for little Squeak, a young male juvenile--too
young to migrate. The book is filled with pictures and knowledge about
hummingbirds and their habbits.
Nektar-Plus is a complete hummingbird, complete with vitamins and
protein. I will search it out and see if it is available.
More about bird books later.
A Link to Tips
This was posted to Waste Nothing, yahoo group. I was impressed by some
of the time saving ideas--here is the link:
Title of post is tips, tips, and more tips--excellent blog post!diyhship.blogspot.no/2012/07/tips-tips-and-more-tips.html
of the time saving ideas--here is the link:
Title of post is tips, tips, and more tips--excellent blog post!diyhship.blogspot.no/2012/07/tips-tips-and-more-tips.html
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Apple Festival
This weekend is the 66th Annual Apple Festival; over half the apples in NC
are grown in this area. So my partner and I went to Apple Festival for a
couple of hours this morning. Pictures below. This is only a tiny slice of
of the town--1.5 blocks. Walking is difficult for me, but I thoroughly
enjoyed myself.
There are all kinds of bears all over the town-beautifully
painted.
The downtown roads, sidewalks, and huge planters
were just re-done; very nice now--pain while it was
in the process of completion.
People gathered outside of a restaurant and another
huge planter with convenient bench nearby.
Mural
Ginny's Fudge Shop (both pics) I purchased only one
square of the cappuccino--YUM!
Excellent cinnamon and vanilla nuts
What to do with horseshoes. . .
Inside of horseshoe booth
Still another booth
Baked goods
Booth for donations for promoting the end to
breast cancer. Two young girls were running the
booth.
One of the girls running the breast cancer awareness
booth.
These kids could flat dance--looked like they had
sneaked a peek at the movie, Magic Mike--they had
some moves!
OK, This is blurry--Man imitating art--look how the man
has his arms positioned--then look at the bear
Another bear . . .
This is a biplane--you'll have to take my word on this--
When he was closer, I was trying to get to my camera.
All the pics for today.
are grown in this area. So my partner and I went to Apple Festival for a
couple of hours this morning. Pictures below. This is only a tiny slice of
of the town--1.5 blocks. Walking is difficult for me, but I thoroughly
enjoyed myself.
There are all kinds of bears all over the town-beautifully
painted.
were just re-done; very nice now--pain while it was
in the process of completion.
huge planter with convenient bench nearby.
square of the cappuccino--YUM!
breast cancer. Two young girls were running the
booth.
booth.
sneaked a peek at the movie, Magic Mike--they had
some moves!
has his arms positioned--then look at the bear
This is a biplane--you'll have to take my word on this--
When he was closer, I was trying to get to my camera.
All the pics for today.
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