14 July 2024 A Quiet Visit to Orchard Hills

This evening was a solitary visit to Orchard Hills. I was hoping to spot a great blue heron on the edge of a small pond The pond was quiet and birdless.

The pond is small but is host to a number of bass.

A swallowtail in the field

A spicebush swallowtail stopped long enough for an image by the monarda in the field.

13 July 2024 Visiting Stan Hywett Gardens

It was old-time baseball day at Stan Hywett Gardens.

Butterflies and flowers stole the show on this summer afternoon.

2 September 2023 Donkeys and Mules

I expect some day the donkey and mule show will end at the Geauga County Fair. One look tells how this portion of the fair is for the eldest of the fair entrants. We will stay and watch as long as we and they are around. With a little luck the youngsters who ride will stay around as they become adults.

We stopped for a park walk after the morning's events. The summer wildflowers will soon wind down, but the last of the butterflies were still here for our pleasure.

26 August 2023 Visiting a Quadripoint

We were out for the afternoon to continue seeking geocaches placed to celebrate the Allegheny National Forest Centennial. This afternoon included a visit to McKean County after a walk in our woods.

A tiny toad sitting on a small leaf...

Our trail to start the journey

Great Spangled Fritilary on Joe Pye Weed

Following the powerlines to the quadripoint

The Warren County side of the marker... The other three sides are McKean, Elk, and Forest Counties on this marker from 1902.

Unknown Remains from a Different Time

12 August 2023 Butterflies and Birds

I stopped at home to visit with the dogs. I was happy to see butterflies and bees enjoying the zinnias.

An evening of birding was calling so after the dog walks, I made my way to Mentor Lagoons.

It was a great evening to relax and bird.

1 August 2023 Visiting Mohican

Our long weekend was on its last day. We made a detour on the way home for a visit to Mohican State Park. We spotted a few butterflies and saw buckeye nuts on the trees. As August begins the wear and tear visible on butterflies calls out an approaching end to summer.

27 July 2023 Going Home

 Going home after a business trip is always something to anticipate.  Being able to stop and enjoy a bit of wildlife is a bonus.