tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62412965244328501302024-03-06T01:31:33.262-06:00"The Realm of the Eighty" Living with nature, simply.Photography, information, research and thoughts pertaining to Nature and Simple Living, within "The Realm of the Eighty". Click on any photo to enlarge.Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-6650555644633639022014-02-25T16:22:00.001-06:002014-02-25T16:22:42.930-06:00"The Realm of the Eighty" Living with nature, simply.: What a winter!<a href="http://nosirrahrick.blogspot.com/2014/02/what-winter_25.html?m=1">"The Realm of the Eighty" Living with nature, simply.: What a winter!</a>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-49215016145319528812014-02-25T16:07:00.002-06:002014-02-25T16:07:42.782-06:00What a winter!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #6aa84f;">This has been longest winter I can remember in a long time. I have been to the Realm only once this winter. My health hasn't been the best I am doing better now and have an excellent summer planned. There will be lots of new images and videos and a link to face book. Bear with me! See. Ya soon.<span id="goog_1635691105"></span><span id="goog_1635691106"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-53218181513680376912012-10-31T18:42:00.000-05:002012-10-31T18:42:56.778-05:00(24) I am still here. Sorry for the wait.<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmbVIftqCNd5Vf1TqkFMnEaI0t3_P_Da-WhPZxNtnltuMuxleCB_L0jy_QxntG1fkNf9G8KMaisokVxKL72ufweT6EoPTmunzaf99o0n-Wn-zRnI9wXpP5Vlo-d94dV5xhDOYRyjR77Yw/s1600/_CSC0274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmbVIftqCNd5Vf1TqkFMnEaI0t3_P_Da-WhPZxNtnltuMuxleCB_L0jy_QxntG1fkNf9G8KMaisokVxKL72ufweT6EoPTmunzaf99o0n-Wn-zRnI9wXpP5Vlo-d94dV5xhDOYRyjR77Yw/s320/_CSC0274.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I'm not dead yet!</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlZxr_hYfp6ITvvJCJ24p_NbjmgvweshCpSlwKdC1-P2PkByn_I95jmczICXTRmmlayKyrHTQQ1515y1vgd_zHj5EamWHnnyXQe_ycUSb3rvoh-EE6og21G0np6UcIgsegY9Y-9pDdds/s1600/_CSC0150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="213" qea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZlZxr_hYfp6ITvvJCJ24p_NbjmgvweshCpSlwKdC1-P2PkByn_I95jmczICXTRmmlayKyrHTQQ1515y1vgd_zHj5EamWHnnyXQe_ycUSb3rvoh-EE6og21G0np6UcIgsegY9Y-9pDdds/s320/_CSC0150.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1SXQVJLAXrqIuWTyVSmHoZ6R1TFtkKDeweFtnstjxeJ41c7uJmxhlkEeoPzWuciDYzWxkWC060R04uGfHuqe9FZuWn_PWhcgGWNoGSQ0yxuUeypUl-SQV4dDumZuE8YQHlTl5S-z8tdI/s1600/_CSC0241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="213" qea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1SXQVJLAXrqIuWTyVSmHoZ6R1TFtkKDeweFtnstjxeJ41c7uJmxhlkEeoPzWuciDYzWxkWC060R04uGfHuqe9FZuWn_PWhcgGWNoGSQ0yxuUeypUl-SQV4dDumZuE8YQHlTl5S-z8tdI/s320/_CSC0241.JPG" width="320" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> I am still here. I am still observing and enjoying all that Mother (Earth) gives me. Here are a few photos I have captured this year, there are many more, but I thought I would share these. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> I have a few poems and short essays I thought I would share.. Why, I am not sure but there must be someone out there who understands where I am.</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> Here we go.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> "Basic Necessity"</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Ease unto yourself,</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">For no one is easier</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">to ease into but yourself-</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Then ease into another.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Ease into your work,</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">but retain your vision.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Your vision of self,</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">your life, your worth.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Ease into nature,</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">explore for its value to you,</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">then delve into nature</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">for its value to Earth.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Throw yourself unto the Earth,</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">for Earth provides nature.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Take only of the Earth</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">the needs that she provides you.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">"The Flow"</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The wind as it billows, </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">the sails that you set.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">To cast your life forward</span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">To the day you have met.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Pull yourself forward</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">as the wind pulls you along.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Through the trails of your life,</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">and the goals that you set.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Make mention through your words</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">that you set upon paper,</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">of the vision of your life</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">that unfolds through the mist.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Let not politics nor religion or sporting events-</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">pull you in. . .</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">to confuse your life, that is the sin.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">For Earth provides nature, that is where you win.</span></div>
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">"On Being Another"</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I have often thought of being the deer. Knowing what my life was to be, and what to do, through instinct.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">As long as I stayed in the "Realm" I would be safe. If I crossed the safety line I would be in danger of man and his gun or the speed of his automobile, and his lack of attention.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I could be in the woods permanently with the rest of nature. The song of the bird and the yip of the coyote would be my neighbors, neither who I would be obliged to converse. The foolishness of mans folly and his believing the needs of cell phones or the disasters of the world elsewhere, by his hand.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Coming upon the occasional gift of selected, caring men, a pile of corn or an apple to enjoy.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">My instincts would keep me from most trouble and I would run with my fellow deer when the season was right or follow my own course in the summer, bedding down at night on a hill for observation and a clear get-away if needed.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I would eat of the fresh grasses and new leaves in the spring and scrape the snow in winter for the hidden acorn.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">"</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">as a sot- Can I be anything else? I have my dreams- no desires . . . or is their another word?"</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">" I piss in a milk jug. but I still observe the majesty of nature."</span></div>
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> "Winter Comfort"</span></div>
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Walking through the "Realm", fingers numbing,</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Snow crunching under foot, toes throbbing.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Stick in hand hand to keep from falling.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">A chickadee alights, all curosity.</span></div>
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I stop to gaze and listen.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">To the wind above, through the limbs.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Below the tracks who live here.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">In the snow that yeilds and glistens.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I wonder who has passed most recently,</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">is it the deer or squrill or both?</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">It matters not as they live here.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Me, only a traveller on their path</span></div>
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I shudder quietly with winters weather,</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">not enjoying but enduring, that I must.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">If I want to be and go where I want.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">This path I must take and feel the brunt.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I see through the trees not far off.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The destination I desire, the hill of observation.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">With patience I employ my means of desire</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">to make the "hill" and light the fire.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">My heart enlightens as progress unveils,</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">the gate that I enter that allows me to haven.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">A place to relax and warm up,</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">to be where I want, winter comfort.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">The stove I light the pot is on high.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Wartm liquid inside to thaw and revive.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I put out seeds for energy for the birds.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I wait for the warmth, to return, to observe.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">I look around, cold breath forms a cloud,</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">to cover the panes of glass and walls all 'round..</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Pleased, I see the books on their shelves.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">soon, the warmth overtakes the cold of the "Realm".</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Winter comfort is here in this place I have built.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">To be with nature, Earth and solitude-</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">not excessive in the scene before me.</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Winter comfort alludes to the place I should be.</span></div>
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Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-75013289756656907602011-09-14T17:12:00.003-05:002011-09-26T10:35:31.911-05:00(23) Leading up to the "Long Sleep"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9YAnVf-ctxKQAMm8Whzg-ueHEpkz9_r9XtTLM7V7aOKDwOMKXdfq2m-sEWzRf-SSIcvDqkF8RlWqBKRSfRMLJdsf3KnvB5ak_TSSbdSosxMVdS2kGKegiJ4K7t8Z5PZaHFwXN0alZ7L4/s1600/Hummer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9YAnVf-ctxKQAMm8Whzg-ueHEpkz9_r9XtTLM7V7aOKDwOMKXdfq2m-sEWzRf-SSIcvDqkF8RlWqBKRSfRMLJdsf3KnvB5ak_TSSbdSosxMVdS2kGKegiJ4K7t8Z5PZaHFwXN0alZ7L4/s400/Hummer.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"> </span>This female Ruby Throated Hummingbird (<em>Archilochus colubris</em>) is now on her way to warmer climes. The feeder was taken down last week to urge her on her way. Looking forward to seeing her next spring.</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIAY3my0orO0hPyA6XpV3C7KWmCo_rxrK3vc-PG4RFBEFMTOMuOl86202SwgS2wyVW2cSYwjzoH9YGBw3gXw8cJjMTltKJDCQmO86NQEmSNC7W7qPFctWweswMuCV64votplH3HRrU3E/s1600/_DSC0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWIAY3my0orO0hPyA6XpV3C7KWmCo_rxrK3vc-PG4RFBEFMTOMuOl86202SwgS2wyVW2cSYwjzoH9YGBw3gXw8cJjMTltKJDCQmO86NQEmSNC7W7qPFctWweswMuCV64votplH3HRrU3E/s400/_DSC0009.JPG" width="396" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mapleleaf Viburnum (<em>Viburnum acerifolium</em>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"> It is evident that summer is drawing to a close. Birds are starting their migration south. The beautiful song of the thrush in the evening is now gone. Chipmunks are hoarding faster than ever and Gray squirrel tails are shorter while their new winter growth is starting.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"> It is hard to find a leaf that has not seen the ravishes of some insect. Many are starting to lose their grip from the host tree. Only the occasional wood frog (<em>Rana sylvatica</em>) can be heard in the evening. The shrill call of the peeper is long gone. Thousands of tiny toads are scrambling to live for another spring. The black bear (<em>Ursus americanus</em>) is fat and the doe is getting her winter coat. Catipillars are getting ready to hide in the folliage for their winter sleep and I am lucky enough to witness all of this, appreciating more that the forest and its inhabitants are nearing their time for the "Long Sleep".</span></div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"> The pallete of color is waiting to be brushed upon the leaves of the trees and cooler nights will signal that process. As I have recently learned and contrary to popular belief. It is not early frost that causes our woods to fill with color, rather the cool dry days of autumn trigger a sequence in trees where by shutting off the flow of water to the leaves. The leaves prepare all summer for the own demise by growing two layers of cells at the base of the leaf stem. As the two layers grow, they meet and shut off the flow of chlorophyl which makes the leaves appear green. The chlorophyl breaks down quickly and disappears revealing the beautiful yellow, gold and orange we now see, always there all summer but masked by the chlorophyl. Other pigments are produced creating dramitic reds, scarlets and purples. Soon, all pigments disappear and only the drab brown tannins are left to carpet the forest floor. </span><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"> I have stocked my reserves of kerosene, propane and candles. Firewood is stacked, coffee is on the shelf and I am ready with new excitement for visits during the long sleep.</span><span style="font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="color: #38761d;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzO60UExOEjTMBjI4urgmsBeiE7CrhyphenhyphenODJ24Mrh5tei7y1R3TyHk2f0lvMQabLC8Mm7mibDS6lOkkQWmjathIeBVEjihiM6Ca3IxBYby_uIzaRhRCQ-j-QaTHx-mSOxjqVUTa_YkWCWXo/s1600/_DSC0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzO60UExOEjTMBjI4urgmsBeiE7CrhyphenhyphenODJ24Mrh5tei7y1R3TyHk2f0lvMQabLC8Mm7mibDS6lOkkQWmjathIeBVEjihiM6Ca3IxBYby_uIzaRhRCQ-j-QaTHx-mSOxjqVUTa_YkWCWXo/s400/_DSC0014.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZnzNcqkCYhK1_iELviRS5_KfVOCTPpdq4V9X_P9XgPM2tlBBvMTmEqCCcKcOMZiKOCj21-udMxXi50SwbSDieLb0v_xKBHtsf0YlTPZhL2qmixoMyAL7T6WUlDZI6QbG4xaI-iiAxZw/s1600/_DSC0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" rba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZnzNcqkCYhK1_iELviRS5_KfVOCTPpdq4V9X_P9XgPM2tlBBvMTmEqCCcKcOMZiKOCj21-udMxXi50SwbSDieLb0v_xKBHtsf0YlTPZhL2qmixoMyAL7T6WUlDZI6QbG4xaI-iiAxZw/s400/_DSC0015.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d;"></span> <span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">This is the "Hidden Pond" I have mentioned in previous posts. I have begun building a wooden path through the bog to attain access. I have built a small camp at the top of a hill overlooking the pond. It is about a half acre in size and stunning.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Pitcher Plant</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table> <span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">This is a pitcher plant (<em>Sarracenia purpurea</em>) that grows in the acidic sphagnum moss that surrounds the pond. Tamaracks and black spruce also grow in this medium. The pitcher plant is an insect-trapping plant. The leaves form a pitcher that collects rain water, although scientists now say the roots of the pitcher also pump water into the pitcher. The pitcher has a lip at the top with sweet secretions that attract insects. They crawl down into the pitcher over hairs that grow downward to inhibit the insect from crawling out. As the insect gets further in a secretion stuns them further causing them to fall into the water and be digested by plant enzymes. The decomposed insect is then converted into nitrogen and other nutrients absorbed by the plant. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"> Tuesday 9/13/2011 6:22 p.m. 66 degrees relative humidity is 68%. It is breezy.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"> Two does, presumably sisters and probably mama does daughters arrived. It is amazing how the color has changed since last week. One has more grey than the other but both are far into their winter coat. They both are quite healthy. The one is still quite dominant and insists on feeding first while the other circles and looks longingly at the pile of corn. They are extra wary as hunting season is just around the corner and they need all of the stealth they can muster- it is inherent.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"> When the deer stand still it is awesome how they blend with the bark of similar colored oaks. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"> Squirrels and chipmunks busy themselves with the sunflower seeds I have provided and their noise often gets the attention of the deer. The chipmunks and their stuffed pouches continue to fill seed burrows already stuffed from the summer- also inherent.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"> 6:50, Doe #2 finally gets a chance to finish up the corn and they leave at 7:00 p.m. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"> The breeze is up and the temp is dropping. What a day this has been. Thanks for looking. I hope you enjoy your space as much as I do mine. Till next time. Thanks again. </span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-52280912263880977142011-07-27T17:28:00.002-05:002011-07-27T17:30:34.950-05:00(22) Recap of the Spring and Summer to the Present.<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRFm_-D7EG6tu1THW7XwdOewVE3QHklb6ENS9tWrolVavX72zgfE9HZ2YiPKhychzR70CEz_wPC06JiDZu-IH9h_zTrc6QyC-8xYK4WtZE6iDHLsFoZY3BUHCYlhcZsuBYca5mQe8dWSc/s1600/Cabin+720+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRFm_-D7EG6tu1THW7XwdOewVE3QHklb6ENS9tWrolVavX72zgfE9HZ2YiPKhychzR70CEz_wPC06JiDZu-IH9h_zTrc6QyC-8xYK4WtZE6iDHLsFoZY3BUHCYlhcZsuBYca5mQe8dWSc/s320/Cabin+720+4.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d;"> <span style="font-size: large;"> There were enough nice days in April to dismantle the fence I built last summer. I am happy that I did as I felt I was secluding myself from my friends (the animals). It worked, the place looks nicer and the wildlife is much closer. The deer have not eaten anything they shouldn't but a bear or bears destroyed a pink crab apple I planted. I cut the tree to within a foot of the ground and it is now growing back nicely. I moved more large rocks for continued rustic landscaping and planted a small amount of grass to keep the ground from eroding. Keep in mind this is not a lawn, that would be a shame in the Realm</span></span><span style="font-size: large;">.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3VyDsEtxPDbchyphenhyphenzH0g1ZnccRb7dMaHHLpdnn1xa8EAhs6asd2Qn31w3I5D4s1KrHPhfNCPq-z8I96qrOZgewX_gXTqejbYoCpP6C2_6rmemNrEj6e8wwBgsUmRDFkuQuibd-VTFrMLw/s1600/Cub+23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy3VyDsEtxPDbchyphenhyphenzH0g1ZnccRb7dMaHHLpdnn1xa8EAhs6asd2Qn31w3I5D4s1KrHPhfNCPq-z8I96qrOZgewX_gXTqejbYoCpP6C2_6rmemNrEj6e8wwBgsUmRDFkuQuibd-VTFrMLw/s320/Cub+23.jpg" t$="true" width="256" /></a></div> <span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="color: #38761d;">I have been able to take some nice images of birds, insects and animals some of which I will post here. I also built another small trail and have maintained the others as well. I have been fortunate enough to have a mother bear and two little cubs hang around this summer and exposed some very nice images and videos. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"> <span style="font-size: large;">We have had enough rain to keep things nice and green and the swamps and pond pretty full. The Realm has been certified by The National Wildlife Federation as a wildlife habitat. A journalist from Milwaukee is planning on a visit to do an article on the Realm and my tiny cabin. I am pretty excited about that.</span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ZIazj4rNjiISGPrfgcxkKH8uoiQwVCI7l1bGPekM48uNqFWH4NzoRmOWaFpkZVQeRYzIyJSoLvQ-m2P7E5pOEFYveP-yAfy7st55f6CYYMz2Y4FiXXS32Vf9sAx9A0fI7slru7w6CwA/s1600/Bee+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ZIazj4rNjiISGPrfgcxkKH8uoiQwVCI7l1bGPekM48uNqFWH4NzoRmOWaFpkZVQeRYzIyJSoLvQ-m2P7E5pOEFYveP-yAfy7st55f6CYYMz2Y4FiXXS32Vf9sAx9A0fI7slru7w6CwA/s320/Bee+9.jpg" t$="true" width="256" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> This bee was flying about and I got some nice images. This one in particular. I have spent quite a bit of time throughout the season photographing wild flowers as they bloom. I will be cataloging them and adding them to the next Realm book.</span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERIGWf88r9VjxOAnShv92bGCmO7Ta2YiL67pC-aV-KRd9MgwiLMT8ppQrtDqfTI-lDFCl-FRvNiltRNYcAM0ALGe-sH93g6UaopsmXPW2W_2FSFiP6YJu3vytO90YzmCGhq-NGTmip4o/s1600/Cubs+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERIGWf88r9VjxOAnShv92bGCmO7Ta2YiL67pC-aV-KRd9MgwiLMT8ppQrtDqfTI-lDFCl-FRvNiltRNYcAM0ALGe-sH93g6UaopsmXPW2W_2FSFiP6YJu3vytO90YzmCGhq-NGTmip4o/s400/Cubs+8.jpg" t$="true" width="320" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> This sow and her cubs first came when they were only about fifteen pounds each. On their second visit she felt comfortable enough with me there to lay on her back and nurse the cubs not more that fifty feet away. The cubs are very inquisitive and have come to within ten feet of me. They no longer run up a tree when I am out and about. I still respect that they are wild and follow all of the rules pertaining to black bears.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0GQq9YEuU4dmU0vNF7ASOAutJ7eqyTE_Q4rppnrsZs4LMx0HJ6TEprJpDH5b4OF8yt6GwiEhVOIhNthbrgI2BsJop_yxpxKM3jM1p9LFNXUGeVm7M-G9VuXr5HIkBy0ZYn6zPmmf4bE4/s1600/Black+Eyed+Susan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0GQq9YEuU4dmU0vNF7ASOAutJ7eqyTE_Q4rppnrsZs4LMx0HJ6TEprJpDH5b4OF8yt6GwiEhVOIhNthbrgI2BsJop_yxpxKM3jM1p9LFNXUGeVm7M-G9VuXr5HIkBy0ZYn6zPmmf4bE4/s320/Black+Eyed+Susan.jpg" t$="true" width="256" /></a><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"></span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> It is amazing how much more I notice things as time goes by. I guess my study and desire to be a naturalist has helped that but I thought I was always pretty observant. I guess now I have actually trained myself to move slower, more quiet and constantly look everywhere. However, the Wood Thrush has still alluded me but not her beautiful song. Summer is not over and I am determined to see her.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> There are more insects around now that I have added native flowers to attract them. This Monarch was nice enough to sit for a quick photo.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> This</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9MlRxI1-CBIdV1G1Zbs6NEG1oiXBwqbxOrzebuIpxzWjdxmPeVRr9EiuKo09DY5X7QsmOXIajekpYu9aBsw4LgOVC5D9oFwAHjTBhLeW1HI_FXCcYe48nmIvxCYedqQE8osj5ytZmSY/s1600/Bull+Thistle+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk9MlRxI1-CBIdV1G1Zbs6NEG1oiXBwqbxOrzebuIpxzWjdxmPeVRr9EiuKo09DY5X7QsmOXIajekpYu9aBsw4LgOVC5D9oFwAHjTBhLeW1HI_FXCcYe48nmIvxCYedqQE8osj5ytZmSY/s320/Bull+Thistle+3.jpg" t$="true" width="256" /></span></a> <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">bull thistle is a favorite of the </span><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">American Goldfinch in the fall. </span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfbohTKfxCZWR0vfpzXm23XYcrQ156aded5LFhNaq5DdPnX_HF33V3BE2sDv5Zs6G8BmHsQnoKw4MQuAuTwscIT1imz6wR4v-M5m6xJOZHQrXs20cPSbVut4R9wx8NVwNpQ9J8CS4ZZ_8/s1600/Catapillar+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfbohTKfxCZWR0vfpzXm23XYcrQ156aded5LFhNaq5DdPnX_HF33V3BE2sDv5Zs6G8BmHsQnoKw4MQuAuTwscIT1imz6wR4v-M5m6xJOZHQrXs20cPSbVut4R9wx8NVwNpQ9J8CS4ZZ_8/s320/Catapillar+4.jpg" t$="true" width="256" /></span></a></div><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> I found this hairy little guy crawling along my foundation.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOf7J0XySYMYj407Be4AEZx09WMPW6qrwt5h4DNvQBkGNOFjbTXD_963gqxh30sHXr74HrNVP06DG5FpapbVnYA0qD0HH-kJV5rM8_3guQsQX65MjTw9kZju-Jp8KH3Gg1dxlitsP5VFY/s1600/Chipy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOf7J0XySYMYj407Be4AEZx09WMPW6qrwt5h4DNvQBkGNOFjbTXD_963gqxh30sHXr74HrNVP06DG5FpapbVnYA0qD0HH-kJV5rM8_3guQsQX65MjTw9kZju-Jp8KH3Gg1dxlitsP5VFY/s320/Chipy+2.jpg" t$="true" width="256" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> I increased the size of the "arena" and this little guy is the happier for it. I have counted a dozen chipmunks this year and they are constantly at my screen door asking for a handout.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> All in all, the summer has been excellent and I am looking forward to the rest of it.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"> Meanwhile, thanks for looking and enjoy your space.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-18972549162435212212011-03-30T14:52:00.000-05:002011-03-30T14:52:46.396-05:00(21) We still have snow- But now, a better outlook!<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> March is almost over and still we have too much snow on the ground. So spoiled last year with all snow gone by the 15th and unusually warm weather. Oh well, we take what we can get.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> Yesterday while at "Observation Hill" I saw two chipmunks in the snowy arena vying for sunflower seeds and also saw a robin. Juncos are passing through and goldfinches are back.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> I am thinking about plans for a small addition. Comtemplating the pros and cons. I don't really want the extra expense but a little extra room would be nice. I am only thinking about 25-30 sq ft. Anyway, more on that later. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> Purchased a new camera and have plans for various research through the season. I am very excited about that.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> Here are a few thoughts about winter via a poem I wrote in December-</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">WINTER COMFORT</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Walking through the "Realm" fingers numbing,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Snow crunching under foot, toes throbbing.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Stick in hand to keep from falling,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">A chickadee lites nearby all curiousity.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I stop to gaze and listen,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">To the wind above, through the limbs.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Below, the tracks of those who live here.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">In the snow that yeilds and glistens.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I wonder who has passed most recently,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Is it the deer or squirrel or both?</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">It matters not, they live here.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Me only a traveler on their path.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I shudder quietly with winters weather,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Not enjoying but enduring. That I must.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">If I want to be, and go where I want,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">This path must I take and feel the brunt.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I see through the trees not far off,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">The destination I desire. The hill of observation.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">With patience I employ my means of desire,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">To make the "Hill" and light the fire.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">My heart enlightens as progress unveils,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">The gate that I enter that allows me haven.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">A place to relax and warm up,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">To be where I want, winter comfort.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">The stove I light, the pot on high,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Warm liquid inside to thaw and revive.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I put out seeds for energy for the birds,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">And wait for the warmth, to return, to observe.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I look around and breath forms a cloud,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">To cover the panes and walls all 'round,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Pleased, I see the books on their shelves,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Soon, the warmth overtakes the cold of the Realm.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Winter comfort is here in this place I have built,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">To be with nature and Earth and solitude.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Not excessive in the scene before me,</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Winter comfort alludes to the place I should be.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Until later, enjoy your space.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-39127609880224967542011-03-15T12:20:00.000-05:002011-03-15T12:20:51.461-05:00(20) Another Spring is Here!<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I entered the "Realm" yesterday. The sun was shinning and the temp was just above 40 degrees. I got to "Observation Hill" and loaded up the feeders. Birds flocked immediately and I was pleased. I made a cup of coffee and added a dollop of vodka to help warm the bones and watched. I got a couple of good pictures and suddenly I noticed a chipmunk, the first of the season! A huge smile crossed my face as I watched and I remember saying "Yeah" to myself. So small yet so important to me. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> My truck stayed in the woods all winter as I got stuck just after the first snow fall and decided to leave it there. I stuck the key in and she fired off right away. It shouldn't be long and I will be able to get her out once again. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1NBxAtccp5vZa7LrQ_-vXUyljUFcK2OVoojzm4ZQJ9LMx1Yrb4GHK5XF4_3p7VRds11DAPpIgoMD0GyD5_7VkhMEFhD-LPeZiCjhmcpgSGbIamwtg9RXvqPDDi517KSBIEcJPCL-XF30/s1600/Wildlife+2010+097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1NBxAtccp5vZa7LrQ_-vXUyljUFcK2OVoojzm4ZQJ9LMx1Yrb4GHK5XF4_3p7VRds11DAPpIgoMD0GyD5_7VkhMEFhD-LPeZiCjhmcpgSGbIamwtg9RXvqPDDi517KSBIEcJPCL-XF30/s320/Wildlife+2010+097.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-66852667259407811032011-03-15T11:37:00.001-05:002011-03-15T11:39:32.108-05:00(19) On being another<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> I sometimes wish that I was the deer, knowing what my life was to be, and what to do. As long as I stayed in the "Realm", I would be safe. If I crossed the line I would be in danger of man and his gun or the speed of a car and man's lack of attention.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> I could be in the woods during my life with the rest of nature. The song of the bird and the yip of the coyote would be my neighbors, neither of who I would be obliged to converse. No madness of sporting events, politics or religion- the foolishness of cell phones or disasters of the world elsewhere. The greed of man beyond that of food, clothing and shelter.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> However, coming upon the gift (of man), the occasional pile of corn or an apple to enjoy. Man is few and far between, at least the dangerous ones. My instints would keep me from most trouble. I would run with my fellow deer when the season was right or follow my own course in the summer, bedding down at night on a hill for observation and a clear get-a-way if needed.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> I would eat of the fresh grasses and new leaves in the spring and scrape the snow in winter for the hidden acorn.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> I would look up at the cry of a bluejay under duress and the danger warning of the nearby chipmunk.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> I would mate with my kind in late fall or early winter and enjoy my young for a year after.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> Mother Earth would control our population and I would not take from her more than she gave.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> My specie would carry on as long as Mother Earth wanted us-unless man took us first, as happens all too often. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> </span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-12432050340206803582011-02-14T15:13:00.007-06:002011-02-14T15:22:28.795-06:00(18) February 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPzsEJkHKuA8XXS37OPwODz9kzuHdbx5l12JXgRcZ-Oj71oVKmkyQTt2x3-VxUkwvdPXhLga_pE6ckFgfIKqX1ROpirr-nJ0i5RoBVvxhXBiUu_d_5PHpyevSZwrHed4-9qidNXkivEFs/s1600/2011_01300022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPzsEJkHKuA8XXS37OPwODz9kzuHdbx5l12JXgRcZ-Oj71oVKmkyQTt2x3-VxUkwvdPXhLga_pE6ckFgfIKqX1ROpirr-nJ0i5RoBVvxhXBiUu_d_5PHpyevSZwrHed4-9qidNXkivEFs/s320/2011_01300022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Greetings from "Observation Hill". Winter seems to be dragging on very slowly. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> Yesterday I saw a doe within twenty minutes of arriving. She was in excellent condition. The temperature was almost 50 degrees! Really makes me desire spring though I know there is still at least six weeks before we will see warmer weather.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"> This winter I took an online course from Penn Foster. It was a twenty unit course on Wildlife and Forestry Conservation. The knowledge gained was very helpful for me to better understand the "Realm" around me and gives me much to think about for</span> </span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">this </span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">spring and summer. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> I also purchased about thirty new books pertaining to natural history. I have read most of them and am looking forward to studying the "realm" this spring and summer. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"> I have decided to take down the fence around the cabin. It has kept the deer out but not the bears. I feel I have alienated myself and want to let any wildlife as near as possible, if they eat the plants, so be it. I think I will plant various fruits and grasses and vegetables that the wildlife will enjoy. I purchased a new stereo microscope with camera that will allow me to put pictures on the computer to share with everybody, so look for pics of the tiny creatures coming soon. I am very excited about this season coming as I plan to study</span> </span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">the pond and transplant some small fish and see how they will do. As the pond is surrounded by swamp I would like to build a dock through the swamp to the pond. so I can enjoy it more.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY4avC3RAAZe-AIbOEQTdRD9_0NuX-SUornVUcZzZM0dR-fRCklC5w0sEj4AgyumTgXiPhIT7WCApfLI-fV4JuQvNw_SrXif0v9zQcdwlbeSx49P2LbkaP3e2NHn4g0WQ_W_cCBtEfbP8/s1600/2010_12190022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY4avC3RAAZe-AIbOEQTdRD9_0NuX-SUornVUcZzZM0dR-fRCklC5w0sEj4AgyumTgXiPhIT7WCApfLI-fV4JuQvNw_SrXif0v9zQcdwlbeSx49P2LbkaP3e2NHn4g0WQ_W_cCBtEfbP8/s320/2010_12190022.JPG" width="256" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="color: #6aa84f;"> I made some brush piles hoping rabbits would move in but have not seen any yet. I was very suprised early this winter when upon arrival I spotted this turkey checking out the corn. I have seen these birds in the area but never in the "Realm". I hope they will come more often.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"> Well, I hope everyone enjoys their own little spot in the world, I know I am.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-26580660129745947502010-10-18T14:22:00.004-05:002010-10-18T14:28:00.247-05:00(17) From Observation Hill<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6SQA5-ukiDnMYzHceeVvNf2y7frx16hXMENM_DvvLBG75qBZ6l53bhHd7Tm1zvCUTDbIVoROy6eo9RKO1JarV8HtjHIRLK8K3avgsXWlNFQNlFzNzeNYNdKz_sYcpWt5Gj-lD4n-a0J0/s1600/Kodak1+036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6SQA5-ukiDnMYzHceeVvNf2y7frx16hXMENM_DvvLBG75qBZ6l53bhHd7Tm1zvCUTDbIVoROy6eo9RKO1JarV8HtjHIRLK8K3avgsXWlNFQNlFzNzeNYNdKz_sYcpWt5Gj-lD4n-a0J0/s400/Kodak1+036.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d;">October 18, 2010</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"> Greetings from "Observation Hill" This photo is my desk situated on the East side of my tiny cabin. From here I do, well, what I do; observe. I also, write, draw, read, eat and of late have been planning the next volume of "Realm of the Eighty" The Biota of the Realm with views from "Observation Hill". In this next volume I will have begun to examine the Biota of the Realm which is vast and could probably not be accomplished in a single lifetime but I will enjoy exploring what I can, while I can. Also I will include details of my observation center, also known as "Observation Hill". Plans include details about the remodeling of the cabin, Essays about personal thoughts, poetry and generally what I am thinking. The book will be in three parts including; Photography, drawings and sketches.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"> Fall is upon us and we have had an excellent October, blessed with warm weather. There has been an observed shift in the seasons as noted by summer birds leaving, more year-round bird activity. Bears getting fat and ready for winter and the Deer have changed their colors. I see less of my Chipmunk friends. They have to be fat and sassy as they have not had to rely on gathering as usual but have full storage rooms of sunflower seeds, probably enough for several life times.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOCq0-Vodsimw5yX0iHs7ex7zk2NF5LcGgORd223HU-IBJ5W9DmDgolBmJm6_x2As1vTyANd0jEqkWFrKVrnVxPimr1u-gVVvxVngPy3U-ej_rmqcRABdWMxUjzAjrc6fiE3EsaPd3dk/s1600/sow+and+cubs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ex="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLOCq0-Vodsimw5yX0iHs7ex7zk2NF5LcGgORd223HU-IBJ5W9DmDgolBmJm6_x2As1vTyANd0jEqkWFrKVrnVxPimr1u-gVVvxVngPy3U-ej_rmqcRABdWMxUjzAjrc6fiE3EsaPd3dk/s400/sow+and+cubs.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="color: #38761d;">This picture was captured last night by my trail cam just a few feet from my front door. Even though the resolution is not great you can easily see these bears are fat and happy. The Sow, I guesstimate at between three hundred and fifty and four hundred pounds. The cubs, who will stay with "Mom" for about a year are about eighty to ninety-five pounds. The first time I saw them last spring, they were about fifteen to twenty pound, little balls of fur! I give them a few goodies now and then to help fatten them up even more. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"> My experiences here thus far have been more than fulfilling. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"> I built this fence around the compound as an experiment to deter Bear and Deer from coming into the compound and destroying things. I have succeeded in deterring the Deer but the Bear are still climbing over somehow and knocking over the bird bath and causing general but minor turmoil. Oh well, after all, this is their land I have invaded. Perhaps I will dispense with the fence in the Spring.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"> I began an online course from Penn-Foster, "Forestry and Wildlife Conservation" to increase my personal knowledge and help gain a better understanding of what I am doing here. Who knows, I may be able to get part-time employment in the field as well. Maybe even some government study right here in the "Realm". Time will tell.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;"> Anyway, I am having the time of my life. See you at the next Post and thank you for looking. </span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-6484059365643808782010-07-21T00:09:00.001-05:002010-07-21T10:22:59.451-05:00(16) July 20<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> The wait is over, the cabin remodel is complete. Unfortunately, my friend was not able to saw my siding so I purchased from a local mill, roughsawn lap siding. I am very satisfied with the results. Below are a few pictures of the project. Complete details and photos will be available this fall when I publish volume 2.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZM1-K0DgCXO3qOjgAx3BDrnXuExwWTzbFm6-0H2SSBIWp4vYzgVA1eeJBdPO7xP9lXybZYKMGUXvreIrNYwaV5Wo5Ca0lpJaXtWwrb-8ipD4ZNaA3qmjm7uN-dgj3A_LaB-ZngzxQJU0/s1600/June+2010+pt3+025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZM1-K0DgCXO3qOjgAx3BDrnXuExwWTzbFm6-0H2SSBIWp4vYzgVA1eeJBdPO7xP9lXybZYKMGUXvreIrNYwaV5Wo5Ca0lpJaXtWwrb-8ipD4ZNaA3qmjm7uN-dgj3A_LaB-ZngzxQJU0/s320/June+2010+pt3+025.jpg" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia;"> Besides the cabin project, my days have been filled with other things. I built a White Birch fence around the entire cabin from downed or dead trees. I have reconstructed my paths to the cabin and have added more rock borders along the paths. I cleared a few trees to allow more sunlight to the cabin area. Of course I planted more flowers and also planted some pines as well. I built an out house attached to the water tower. I have maintained the miles of walking trails and have continued my research of the "Realm". </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia;"> As John Burroughs said," If you wait, nature will come to you." This is so true. I have my usuals. Mama Doe is still around. So are her young, though, she has sent them on their way and shuns them when they get close. There are many squirrels and at night the raccoons come around to have a bite if there is anything available. I have a pesky young bear who I call "Little Smoky" who hangs around constantly although I try to convince him not to hang around. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia;"> Much of my enjoyment comes from the chipmunks. Their ranks have grown to thirteen! I cleared a small area where I feed them sunflower seeds. I call this area "The Arena" They are my little gladiators What a show they put on, I watch them for hours. Sometimes they get a little rough. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPbo8FXiUSbJs9QjbbpzUxKObPQurNCFwmVB82MeZuwX0nd_I-mGegj8lbziZMnEPlzJZ9o99R0mLVDuUhaidBH5QuczytMLyYNu2DJp5qylS3o0QLI1_bn-BRai3fEMNIfifDYbHVfT4/s1600/Front+July+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPbo8FXiUSbJs9QjbbpzUxKObPQurNCFwmVB82MeZuwX0nd_I-mGegj8lbziZMnEPlzJZ9o99R0mLVDuUhaidBH5QuczytMLyYNu2DJp5qylS3o0QLI1_bn-BRai3fEMNIfifDYbHVfT4/s320/Front+July+18.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji64EaZ7cQv8dlvbR7jQHbhOWQa9fzAnCo6tXN9ZEZUQNhvjhTmYE0yZlLs-NpGqEI-Ie7CpEUWSCEpcpQGBehyw7j0LDTueVrO0IkC_DyJ-Exa_37_2X7YoivqS3OYUa-S910egsxkBc/s1600/West+and+North+July+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji64EaZ7cQv8dlvbR7jQHbhOWQa9fzAnCo6tXN9ZEZUQNhvjhTmYE0yZlLs-NpGqEI-Ie7CpEUWSCEpcpQGBehyw7j0LDTueVrO0IkC_DyJ-Exa_37_2X7YoivqS3OYUa-S910egsxkBc/s320/West+and+North+July+18.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPSOg73C50pKe4KA9RHllRRqs1TNip25yxj4SKWxm6Am6iEDyiXbMEQW2CVsVmeJ1mjkOKzZN8U3yonld-TbUqPMLqLJWndVmAucEImLwVcp3Xtwp98nJstlbx08hdGkMjWNaxr5xj1k/s1600/Out+House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPSOg73C50pKe4KA9RHllRRqs1TNip25yxj4SKWxm6Am6iEDyiXbMEQW2CVsVmeJ1mjkOKzZN8U3yonld-TbUqPMLqLJWndVmAucEImLwVcp3Xtwp98nJstlbx08hdGkMjWNaxr5xj1k/s320/Out+House.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYctRI1PG0ndFcHIJBC-TqOj1I1ivB2VYsc3q8cwgAzrXbQuGrQpY-Jjrmtvtj-5Phka_TPXflljWfm5L92mSzpf1TD47JOowFnghh2LCYeRMEcA9DZE_NgXgaNQkMOBptMhKZzvE5DiI/s1600/East+window+awning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYctRI1PG0ndFcHIJBC-TqOj1I1ivB2VYsc3q8cwgAzrXbQuGrQpY-Jjrmtvtj-5Phka_TPXflljWfm5L92mSzpf1TD47JOowFnghh2LCYeRMEcA9DZE_NgXgaNQkMOBptMhKZzvE5DiI/s320/East+window+awning.jpg" /></a></div><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia;"> I have taken hundreds of photographs of wildlife and flora and fauna which will be detailed and classified in this falls book.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia;"> We have been fortunate to have more rain so far and that is good. I am having the time of my life here in the "Realm" Enjoy the pics. More to come. Thanks for looking. Click on any pics to enlarge.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-89722926954085094182010-04-17T13:54:00.003-05:002010-04-17T14:02:05.126-05:00(15) April Jottings<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMTlNJpVF8SvNaXI1Cvv5y8PVe6nLDG-UKjfZzSZZ_MmXssBzNjFmvfOg3N9NScdNn8H-u1ISwnY7R6ecmqjlRwJe6Pzy8p2aewyDIDxeacsUoVFY6CneUkGKLNA5Tbt-rHhUyCfKUsY/s1600/2010_0415sept0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxMTlNJpVF8SvNaXI1Cvv5y8PVe6nLDG-UKjfZzSZZ_MmXssBzNjFmvfOg3N9NScdNn8H-u1ISwnY7R6ecmqjlRwJe6Pzy8p2aewyDIDxeacsUoVFY6CneUkGKLNA5Tbt-rHhUyCfKUsY/s320/2010_0415sept0003.JPG" width="296" wt="true" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Everything is wonderful in the "Realm". The Aspens and Maples are showing their tiny new leaves. Ferns are popping from the ground as well as the day lilies.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Work is progressing on the cabin at "Observation Hill".</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">On Friday the 9th I started framing the new roof rafters, by Monday the plywood was installed and the roofing felt was nailed down just in time for the much needed rain on Wednesday. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlnyXs9YnM9VpWGN-l-wKzlc49ty11GRaGl9TkPyRWP2ATAGqljGTaPAKkXyAVcK-xkC33Y76ferZIQfO4iWGTfxbuYZxEGLwMFhmBQPxZhvJ0G1sh9UAoUwMolRCCRSJv_QBrTmM8_jw/s1600/2010_0415sept0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlnyXs9YnM9VpWGN-l-wKzlc49ty11GRaGl9TkPyRWP2ATAGqljGTaPAKkXyAVcK-xkC33Y76ferZIQfO4iWGTfxbuYZxEGLwMFhmBQPxZhvJ0G1sh9UAoUwMolRCCRSJv_QBrTmM8_jw/s400/2010_0415sept0009.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">On Thursday the 15th I installed the fascia, a nice little touch, and stapled on the tyvek. I have secured the roofing shingles, generously donated by a friend and will lay those next week. I am still waiting for the siding to be sawn and that should be soon.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEbMhLh_wisY9A6TDecCFCsR1WmqYS1kXG3MHnA8iT4pcitZAg5XfhfXbDMGTsBqrzcrfk74EirQoV9w9iBWOfuaBTM2YmCqnmUwFWEyehmEltSK5m36btIjoo32TvamgsQp_X9_eczU/s1600/2010_0415sept0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEbMhLh_wisY9A6TDecCFCsR1WmqYS1kXG3MHnA8iT4pcitZAg5XfhfXbDMGTsBqrzcrfk74EirQoV9w9iBWOfuaBTM2YmCqnmUwFWEyehmEltSK5m36btIjoo32TvamgsQp_X9_eczU/s400/2010_0415sept0005.JPG" width="400" wt="true" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">I am very excited about all of the progress, however, I don't think I will make the May 1st deadline so I will have to push that ahead a bit. I am confident it will be mostly done by the middle of May allowing me to concentrate on the biota of the "Realm" and to begin collecting data for this falls expected Volume two of "The Realm of the Eighty". Thanks for looking.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-38265035719588863012010-04-06T13:25:00.001-05:002010-04-10T14:29:58.831-05:00(14) Spring Remodel Begins<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBUmfFvCmd8pcBhqD6xG-Wle4Fhmk-OnNIwPfTs4QnURrQcQtZw1xjzX5uQDCoIPRyJlNGtATcUQGfNnPAxc0gO9x8J-ICN3MWwsh-wRZvZbdfIl0IHYAtQrl9ftRgS7GbO07XLL0zLQE/s1600/2010_0401sept0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBUmfFvCmd8pcBhqD6xG-Wle4Fhmk-OnNIwPfTs4QnURrQcQtZw1xjzX5uQDCoIPRyJlNGtATcUQGfNnPAxc0gO9x8J-ICN3MWwsh-wRZvZbdfIl0IHYAtQrl9ftRgS7GbO07XLL0zLQE/s200/2010_0401sept0010.JPG" width="160" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">4/1/2010 I found an old swivel desk chair and spent three days refurbishing it for the cabin, turned out pretty nice.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmnOChYexq45Wcb8wVezIWK5Tkgy25883eURiIVMrSqhkIDo-rt8Pg6RjY4um7eKBNjArBJcuNuq3Tgj2hrQKcfAppJUU7xFqRqovutBMKY96I_8L7zwfQ5Lh-AhL2L1mQBZJYB56AQI/s1600/2010_0405sept0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrmnOChYexq45Wcb8wVezIWK5Tkgy25883eURiIVMrSqhkIDo-rt8Pg6RjY4um7eKBNjArBJcuNuq3Tgj2hrQKcfAppJUU7xFqRqovutBMKY96I_8L7zwfQ5Lh-AhL2L1mQBZJYB56AQI/s200/2010_0405sept0002.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">4/4/2010 Nice and warm, 65 degrees. The weather is nice enough so I decided to start some remodeling. I removed the old window from the East side of the cabin and framed in and installed two sash windows, side by side. These open from the inside and though smaller than the old window, provide a wider viewing angle, plus they look great.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7blrovN_xQ8AGssHr3gDyltLboqvm9dyLI_L430cQv-dwkQPHg0sKU_Y4qIcN003L_UR0_M-yI-DhSFtP5dwra4W5jFxqY380tSHTdud8cjB97nlElDoBj8wiBg1bDyfkbnbL8z1Svk/s1600/2010_0405sept0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG7blrovN_xQ8AGssHr3gDyltLboqvm9dyLI_L430cQv-dwkQPHg0sKU_Y4qIcN003L_UR0_M-yI-DhSFtP5dwra4W5jFxqY380tSHTdud8cjB97nlElDoBj8wiBg1bDyfkbnbL8z1Svk/s200/2010_0405sept0001.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">4/5/2010 Cloudy and cooler but nice enough to work a bit. Removed old window from the West side and framed in and installed another sash window there, also opens to the inside. I also stained the new knotty pine paneling inside on the East side. </span><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">A new gabled roof will happen soon. A friend with a portable saw mill is cutting new siding for the cabin. I am excited. All in future posts. I hope to have the work done by the beginning of May so I can devote my summer to wildlife observation.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-64438066014518964672010-04-06T12:50:00.002-05:002010-04-06T14:33:54.041-05:00(13) March in a Nutshell<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">March was unseasonably warm and sunny although we could have used more moisture. Our ground water is now more than three feet below normal, the forest is very dry. Lakes are low.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPkk1eoBjK5KoObzk5LTONbqGsoeksjoXtjrsjFIbVhOmFYK5AY0x0WWKKq5zqQD-EzvELKaYTCkjJk9EY6Hzy1LPUjtmYdKk5GOCEmZ0hHnnmc79htXn1mcNoF4owRdViE3bPgNYeG0/s1600/2010_0309sept0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPkk1eoBjK5KoObzk5LTONbqGsoeksjoXtjrsjFIbVhOmFYK5AY0x0WWKKq5zqQD-EzvELKaYTCkjJk9EY6Hzy1LPUjtmYdKk5GOCEmZ0hHnnmc79htXn1mcNoF4owRdViE3bPgNYeG0/s200/2010_0309sept0062.JPG" width="186" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">3/09/2010. Sunny, breezy and 45 degrees. We still have some snow on the ground. I saw a Fisher during daylight hours and got a couple of pictures though not close before it left the area. I took a couple of pictures of its tracks in the snow but they are difficult to make out. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyN3W2sL5gSeer59mRkV14vzJQAM3VzOWzODJ_sHcWFmNy7U8gfSrABGu40jN4Q79YoBfZMf5FPnzkwwTWulN2zX4iLXvOiM76rW4HW1hxD2eq-tOnDfaaQdkFqzF-c9XEZGriKtEaCYI/s1600/2010_0309sept0074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyN3W2sL5gSeer59mRkV14vzJQAM3VzOWzODJ_sHcWFmNy7U8gfSrABGu40jN4Q79YoBfZMf5FPnzkwwTWulN2zX4iLXvOiM76rW4HW1hxD2eq-tOnDfaaQdkFqzF-c9XEZGriKtEaCYI/s200/2010_0309sept0074.JPG" width="160" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Saw my first Chipmunk of the season, I am not sure if it was Theodore but I have my hopes that that is who it was, later confirmed by the burrow in which he went in. Good to see he survived the winter, though he should have, not lacking food as he stashed many pounds of sunflower seeds I provided. I also observed several Chickadees, a Nut Hatch and a </span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Downy Woodpecker. A single Crow also stopped by to investigate.</span></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">3/14 Sunny, 60 degrees, very light wind. Amazing how much snow has disappeared in a week. Observed Chipmunks, a Red Squirrel, Nuthatches and Chickadees and a Hairy Woodpecker. Did some work around the cabin.</span></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">3/15 Beautiful, sunny and 60 degrees. Drove in for the first time this year. A bit muddy. I removed a window, framed in and insulated providing much needed room for new book shelves inside.</span></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytfHhGOyrgQmy7MFIQU9IcWPTzMAFzYvT3VUv1uakWtyJLbJ1DKo195pfNtOCJiEmevIKGknI9DmQ3QT2p_nzNzM_iBge8SBFNm8UVeYSXHTwTy6LWvXhxTRb56JD2IWv1ZWbm6gHaW4/s1600/2010_0401sept0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiytfHhGOyrgQmy7MFIQU9IcWPTzMAFzYvT3VUv1uakWtyJLbJ1DKo195pfNtOCJiEmevIKGknI9DmQ3QT2p_nzNzM_iBge8SBFNm8UVeYSXHTwTy6LWvXhxTRb56JD2IWv1ZWbm6gHaW4/s200/2010_0401sept0005.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">3/17 Nice 55 degrees. Muddy road. Built book shelves and observed many small flying insects that I did not identify.</span></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">3/20 Very muddy not driving back in until it is drier. Deer have been around as corn is gone from the feeder. As many as four Chipmunks around all battling for space, or is it a mating ritual?</span></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCXSXQvqtAsvfeO9IdwqLuLkpxNQCYuAgYBwlliZj7eXA2d-9cND2_aS1OljPpPtRu9JpQsAooAzpFXgwXP2wtWWHcueaTslash3LGTUFvDfvBLK0IEozfr8qgLLvffT1qFCvhcbjS_t0/s1600/2010_0322sept0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCXSXQvqtAsvfeO9IdwqLuLkpxNQCYuAgYBwlliZj7eXA2d-9cND2_aS1OljPpPtRu9JpQsAooAzpFXgwXP2wtWWHcueaTslash3LGTUFvDfvBLK0IEozfr8qgLLvffT1qFCvhcbjS_t0/s200/2010_0322sept0008.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">3/22 Sunny 55 degrees. Walked in. Fed Chipmunks some seeds, Theodore ate at my feet. Photos of various scat along the trails. Woodpeckers. Snow mostly gone. Spent a couple of hours walking the trails. Finally got my spotting scope and tripod, yeah!</span></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">3/30 Nice and warm. Built more Birch fencing. Moved water tank location. Noticed Lilies and other spring flowers popping through the ground.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8asvRdNqMf3I6tUk-H3TENagTLhByRMpohdOtWL0PwvITHJehiMLWwpCrwgaBg6Zw3mF1L_2kZuolh2UzU1K1BaQkcJV_Fs40SoCt0ZaFocdEG9dt9vxEsRd_Iqi4__KVtunRPDLAcms/s1600/2010_0322sept0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8asvRdNqMf3I6tUk-H3TENagTLhByRMpohdOtWL0PwvITHJehiMLWwpCrwgaBg6Zw3mF1L_2kZuolh2UzU1K1BaQkcJV_Fs40SoCt0ZaFocdEG9dt9vxEsRd_Iqi4__KVtunRPDLAcms/s200/2010_0322sept0012.JPG" width="186" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">New Squirrels nest</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtItptyEWKr6I5n8MYO3_b6VM9YvdDrCvN8KKuWKf_d-8I9cDScfyz7_qoNoAAhzQgFujYY3a-SB9qzejSKjSW9P0ovYLPtMlv5dkaGDg2CA_EohbKNNCEswpQ61UdkE2XxKWvhvedMw/s1600/2010_0322sept0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtItptyEWKr6I5n8MYO3_b6VM9YvdDrCvN8KKuWKf_d-8I9cDScfyz7_qoNoAAhzQgFujYY3a-SB9qzejSKjSW9P0ovYLPtMlv5dkaGDg2CA_EohbKNNCEswpQ61UdkE2XxKWvhvedMw/s200/2010_0322sept0019.JPG" width="200" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Swamp pools from the runoff</span></div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7alxibcv-W7-OBOHKDOLbvXoavWLdzRX6X6WEFUjouV0h2wuJXZAdxIgIbvqIEDOOCII7YqjpVMpAPuFIwt7ZLJFS9aFJe5DprN7kAB1znZOtxXH9NeWVEEHq_yrXAMOpFk0zP5PQYYc/s1600/2010_0401sept0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7alxibcv-W7-OBOHKDOLbvXoavWLdzRX6X6WEFUjouV0h2wuJXZAdxIgIbvqIEDOOCII7YqjpVMpAPuFIwt7ZLJFS9aFJe5DprN7kAB1znZOtxXH9NeWVEEHq_yrXAMOpFk0zP5PQYYc/s200/2010_0401sept0007.JPG" width="160" /></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">3/31 Another great day weather wise but getting drier. Able to drive in again. Tree Frogs are peeping in the swamps. Got a picture of a Leopard Frog. Saw a pair of Mallards.</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8asvRdNqMf3I6tUk-H3TENagTLhByRMpohdOtWL0PwvITHJehiMLWwpCrwgaBg6Zw3mF1L_2kZuolh2UzU1K1BaQkcJV_Fs40SoCt0ZaFocdEG9dt9vxEsRd_Iqi4__KVtunRPDLAcms/s1600/2010_0322sept0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"></span></a></div></div>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-31010605488898139532010-02-23T15:22:00.003-06:002010-03-26T14:31:01.236-05:00(12) Winter Pushes Onward<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZLv4iESsd-NZKH6Cbi69ObysvGrhGi5caKgi1X4jwtpP9CUNo-KZofPGAWkAaDuKYVyfsZGdHe3N4E5Ay82pmeXMJm-cFX3wXHNhdBD93LbWk7N3vNXi7z0BiM6qLAju2kalEuGYzvI/s1600-h/2010_0212sept0007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: black;"><img border="0" ct="true" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZLv4iESsd-NZKH6Cbi69ObysvGrhGi5caKgi1X4jwtpP9CUNo-KZofPGAWkAaDuKYVyfsZGdHe3N4E5Ay82pmeXMJm-cFX3wXHNhdBD93LbWk7N3vNXi7z0BiM6qLAju2kalEuGYzvI/s400/2010_0212sept0007.JPG" width="300" /></span></a><span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> Welcome back. Even though it is snowing today, signs of spring are slowly showing their faces. The day light minutes have increased and air tempertures are getting warmer. The south side of the hills are losing their snow and some are now bare once again. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d; font-family: Georgia;"> I have not spent as much time in the "Realm" this winter as I have wanted, but I managed three trips in January and so far, once this month. Last week when I went out, I had not been there a half hour when four deer came by. They all looked very healthy. That was a nice feeling. I got a picture of a red fox by day and it also looked quite healthy.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d; font-family: Georgia;"> Of course I have been glued the the Lily bear site with her new cub and that excites me to get more involved with the bears I saw this past spring and summer.</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROb747hfzKYRX7nQSSNsVijDbHdYcN0fy4gJBkfOxSsnRwYXL_9SWyw-PqNOovIYw09GqBmWykiDIb_Z4W_Wq9ZfOLVaHd1g9lD6e26XpcAm3BYa-miJB98hWguOZ7LkygYCxGHneCtw/s1600-h/2010_0216sept0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ct="true" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhROb747hfzKYRX7nQSSNsVijDbHdYcN0fy4gJBkfOxSsnRwYXL_9SWyw-PqNOovIYw09GqBmWykiDIb_Z4W_Wq9ZfOLVaHd1g9lD6e26XpcAm3BYa-miJB98hWguOZ7LkygYCxGHneCtw/s200/2010_0216sept0047.JPG" width="160" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: Georgia;"> My ideas of having a vegetable garden this summer have faded as I want to spend more time observing all wildlife. I will still have a few tomato plants. My building renovation plans are still a go but I will not increase the square fottage of the cabin. Pictures will follow as the work begins. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: Georgia;"> I have read much this winter on many aspects of nature to better understand the life I observe. Some of the books I have obtained; Zoology and Mammalogy, have caused me to buy refresher courses in biology, physics and chemistry. I should have paid closer attention in high school.</span></div><span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: Georgia;"> By the way, my snow shoes worked out very well and after a couple of trips on them I was able to walk with just boots and not sink in. I will still be much happier when the snow goes as walking is so much easier.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-21593309786784027472009-12-28T17:46:00.014-06:002010-02-23T15:40:40.686-06:00(11) The Pulk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXk8BFf2jxOyYopipZFYtiGCsx5B5y8tVUt9Tcv0tf2a_jE-wTQ1aELkffjrVPUSKDvL3mE_MkFL8V9Eg6WgzzTtc2GcSeaOJ97tDrkDFigXJbUxsk-_9M4EomVEj8TFx4yGzabNYFuGM/s1600-h/2009_1229sept0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXk8BFf2jxOyYopipZFYtiGCsx5B5y8tVUt9Tcv0tf2a_jE-wTQ1aELkffjrVPUSKDvL3mE_MkFL8V9Eg6WgzzTtc2GcSeaOJ97tDrkDFigXJbUxsk-_9M4EomVEj8TFx4yGzabNYFuGM/s200/2009_1229sept0013.JPG" /></a></div><span style="color: #6aa84f;">After much research, I bought the (small) Wild Outdoors sled, purchased locally for $29.00 plus tax. My sled is product # 1610 and is 44"L x 22"W x 9"deep and is six pounds. Their web site is </span><a href="http://www.wild-outdoors.com/"><span style="color: #6aa84f;">http://www.wild-outdoors.com/</span></a><span style="color: #6aa84f;">. I cut two pieces of one inch pvc for the pull /tow bars and threaded quarter inch nylon line to fasten to sled. I have an elastic net with hooks to attach over top to keep gear in. This sled is large enough to carry a twenty pound lp cylinder, fifty pounds of corn, a pack with water, food and clothing, camera gear, snow shoes etc. It is not so big, making it easy to pull around tight corners on the trails and quite light. This keeps loads off my back and all weight low to the ground. I will comment on how the pull goes while snow shoeing, it could be interesting.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">P.S. Grant Wagner had a comment and I will expound on that here. He was interested in my pulk or sled. I have always been aware of major expeditions using sleds to haul their goods and gear. I wanted one but not so large so I began looking into sleds used for ice fishing and chose one based on that information. It should work out just fine. I added the tow arms so I can control it when I go down hills; to keep the pulk from ramming me from behind.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Grant also wanted to know how long my stays are and what I like to do while there.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">It takes about a half hour to hike in from the nearest road. My stays this time of year are usually kept to only a couple of days, though sometimes I will hike out just to feed the birds and deer. I have packed the snow down pretty good but we have had more lately so tomarrow I will probably have to try my snow shoes. I purchased two styles from ebay last summer and am excited to try them out. Once I arrive, I go in and fire up the little propane heater, then I go out and fill the bird and deer feeders. I like to get this done before 3 p.m. as the deer usually arrive by 4 or 4:30. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">If there has been snow, I will clean off the roof. Sometimes I will build a small fire in the pit and enjoy that for a couple of hours. If it is dark out the deer will still come around as long as I am still and don't make sudden moves. They will not come around in the daylight hours if I am outside. That is fine with me as I want them to remain cautious of man, they will live longer, if you know what I mean. I do not hunt anything and there is no hunting on our land anyway. I don't even like killing mice as they deserve their little lives too!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">As for my winter activities, they include: Writing notes as to things I would like to do in the spring. I read tons and enjoy listening to music or even playing a little music myself. I take a lot of video and still photographs, obviously I enjoy watching the deer and birds and squirrels. I put on the coffee and ocasionally have a toddy or three. There is a small pond on the property. I am going to hike out on the ice and drill a few holes to check the depths. The pond is small, maybe only a half acre but even in this drought its level has not dropped much so there must be a spring or two within.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">I also have been making notes as to the garden I am planning this spring. What veggies I will grow and how I will preserve them in the fall. I will start out small, approximately ten feet square. If I am successful I will go larger in 2011. We shall see. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">When the time comes I have a very comfy bed in which to sleep.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">That is some of what I like to do when spending my winter in the "Realm" Living with nature, simply. Until later, -Rick </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6aa84f;">12/29/09</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f;">Tested the pulk today. Worked great, very little load on me, a bit going up hill but otherwise good. The snow shoes worked well also. Breaking new path was slow and the trip took an hour rather than the usual half hour. Lots of snow and ice removed from cabin top. All is well.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-3210367288040981802009-12-22T11:32:00.012-06:002010-02-23T15:42:55.390-06:00(10) Winter Projects<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUpCzLNdzFdpnlQOnca9QfdA94EDO-iRRQnolqnMmKNupaJegZS5ctegPZup6VWSsc5VPbs4jgXHtociMhS6fAQBZxttzX9cCIs_jlA5TYH7UdseMdIeujZPRBnVadP9SFfy7M7k4QwsQ/s1600-h/2009_1209sept0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUpCzLNdzFdpnlQOnca9QfdA94EDO-iRRQnolqnMmKNupaJegZS5ctegPZup6VWSsc5VPbs4jgXHtociMhS6fAQBZxttzX9cCIs_jlA5TYH7UdseMdIeujZPRBnVadP9SFfy7M7k4QwsQ/s400/2009_1209sept0006.JPG" /></a></div> <span style="background-color: #93c47d;"> </span><span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"> First, I want to thank everyone who has commented on this blog. I appreciate any and all remarks.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"> I titled this blog "Winter Projects" not because I am doing anything right now, projects in the "Realm" are near impossibe as I have to hike in, I guess I could pull a sled with all of the tools but then, not.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"> I have been making plans for spring. Now is the time to consider and reconsider the things I want to do. After discovering Joseph Jenkins web site, I have decided to use one of his composting toilets in my cabin though I will build my own to save money. I didn't realize there would be no odor and the space requiement is minimal, let alone the valuable compost I will get as a result. After taking a few measurements at the cabin recently I decided a small addition was necessary to accommodate a toilet and shower area inside rather than outside. It is so very uncomfortable pooping outside in these cold temps let alone taking a shower. Though I have done it before.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"> My initial plan was to increase the size of the cabin by 48 square feet to house the toilet and shower. More expense and a larger foot print. I measured and remeasured and decided by rearranging things inside I can fit both projects in the cabin, as is. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"> By removing part of the counter that houses the current stove top, I can free up almost fifty inches of space. I will alot 25 inches for each, the toilet and shower. The lost counter space can be made up at the other end where the table currently resides. There will be room for the used twenty inch gas range i will get and still have room for some storage space I will lose at the other end. The table will be moved across the room to the South side. This will be very cozy, I realize, but very funtional and less expense.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"> My other plan which I may have mentioned in an earlier blog was to redo the outside of the cabin. Removing the outer aluminum shell and adding more framing and insulation, relocating the windows and adding a hard shell roof with more insulation. These plans I have already confirmed and can now accommidate the new ideas in that project.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"> Winter makes it possible to sit back and contemplate ideas then rethink them before you start a project when only realizing that is not really what you wanted. Saves time and money.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"> My shower idea; While living on the boat all of those years, most of my showers were solar type, heating the water when there was no sun. Not feasible in frigid tempertaures. With space alloted for the shower which is small but doable I will install a six gallon water tank available from Todd Enterprises, to this I will attach the necessary fittings for fill and drain. To get water to the shower head; I found an aluminum heavy duty hand operated pump. I will attach a tubeless tire valve in the tank then use the pump to add pressure. The pump has a guage to monitor the pressure. Very simple, very nice. I fill the tank part way with cool water then add heated water; from the sun in summer and from the stove in winter. I can then poop and shower in the comfort of a heated cabin. In summer I can still enjoy an outside solar shower if I choose, the best of both worlds. The gray water will flow into a small reservoir of sand and gravel and will be returned back to the ground, clean. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"> After much consideration about wood heat, I have decided that my cabin is too small to accommidate, as it requires too much space for safety. Since I am doing the shower and toilet and having to arrange things differently, wood is just not feasible. Actually that means less strain on my old back. I will only have to get wood for the firepit which I also cook on in the summer. I could do it in the winter but have not yet. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"> The propane heater needs much less space for safety and has proved very economical so far this winter. I estimate I will spend less than sixty dollars on propane this winter and even less next winter with the addition of more insulation. Cost will increase a little when I am in full time. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: black; color: #93c47d;"> Until next time -Rick</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-78674470704202198212009-12-16T15:05:00.000-06:002009-12-16T15:06:03.715-06:00(9) Second Snow<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTM653eluaW1D4EsnfjCTgFnmYVZuwdhS-5BzYL-MH0hJqoieWhIU8z8_DVHFIWyH22ELY02soIhg_YYeWeGk6atwK_rvXszswa3Jww70S7xMpUuTOV5t3QWOMug8CXf030Pw1aldSGCk/s1600-h/2009_1209sept0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTM653eluaW1D4EsnfjCTgFnmYVZuwdhS-5BzYL-MH0hJqoieWhIU8z8_DVHFIWyH22ELY02soIhg_YYeWeGk6atwK_rvXszswa3Jww70S7xMpUuTOV5t3QWOMug8CXf030Pw1aldSGCk/s320/2009_1209sept0001.JPG" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: #38761d;">A walk into the "Realm" after our second snow. No snow shoes needed yet and the deer movement is active. They seem to take the shortest distance to their goal, but find many of our trails suitable for their needs. They will walk along one of our trails and then step off in the same general direction, only the shorter distance and then come out once again on one of our trails. The temperature is holding steady at 10 degrees Fahrenheit. I am dressed for the occasion. Moisture from my mouth and nose create ice buildup on my beard and moustache.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"> My purpose is to remove snow from the roof of my cabin and to give seeds to the birds and corn to the deer. I also brought apples as a treat. The snow seems very light but is amazingly heavy. I don't need the hassle of a collapsed roof with more snow.</span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"> After the work was done I went inside, the inside temp. had already risen from the outside 10 degrees to a balmy 40 degrees. I brought along water and put some on to boil for coffee. I enjoyed a cup while watching various birds enjoy their treat of sunflower seeds. There were chickadees, nuthatches and downy woodpeckers. One flicker happened by as well. I thought a second cup was in order, by the time it was ready the temp had risen to 65 degrees. The time difference from when I lit the heater to now was about thirty five minutes. I was impressed that it did not take so long, but then I am heating less than 100 square feet. </span><br />
<span style="color: #38761d;"> The sun was shining for the first time in several days but the time was almost four o'clock. Time to hike out before dark. The temp had dropped to two degrees. I did not wait to see the deer come in but I am sure they did. I will go back on Thursday to replenish their supplies. I plan to stay over night next Monday. Can't wait for another campfire out in the snow. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaq40DZXm6lGjzTyea6azLfzUkrDKMvKO8B9u9d96KQb6iLRtWqCC0kjStz-k-UUL8fvCo6kRqlrx3W1XCbiKFHfVblou5ebzD-JfWgKTU3uWq8TNl8dWoBMexQe-3whmv4lO6WgTZ0_U/s1600-h/2009_1209sept0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaq40DZXm6lGjzTyea6azLfzUkrDKMvKO8B9u9d96KQb6iLRtWqCC0kjStz-k-UUL8fvCo6kRqlrx3W1XCbiKFHfVblou5ebzD-JfWgKTU3uWq8TNl8dWoBMexQe-3whmv4lO6WgTZ0_U/s400/2009_1209sept0004.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-63580411608131402812009-12-05T04:56:00.001-06:002010-02-23T15:43:47.149-06:00(8) Winter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="color: #93c47d;">Winter is here! Not official by date but the temperatures have dropped and ice has settled on the pond. Snow is falling and now it will be more difficult to get to the cabin.</span><br />
<span style="color: #93c47d;"> I was ill for the week of Thanksgiving and not able to get to the cabin, however, this past Monday I managed a short visit late in the afternoon. I poured some corn into the feeder and to my delight within a half hour Mama Doe and her two fawns (nearly her size now) appeared for the feast. They had survived hunting season, which thrills me and they couldn't look better. I have to secure some hay for them and maybe some soybeans to supplement their corn. Must keep them fat and sassy!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI9p4YInKyGC-KPhdtM44z_5T9p07ZqVSl0yOAYe46f0-isjP0UOv0u73h20ka5-0BEffGJFgisZPvx2GYuQuYs97JdcY7_P5f0zWf3Q33745aeSbXYLQYSgTMtlt6YounG8c5aOyWAK4/s1600-h/doe+at+feeder+book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #93c47d;"><img border="0" er="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI9p4YInKyGC-KPhdtM44z_5T9p07ZqVSl0yOAYe46f0-isjP0UOv0u73h20ka5-0BEffGJFgisZPvx2GYuQuYs97JdcY7_P5f0zWf3Q33745aeSbXYLQYSgTMtlt6YounG8c5aOyWAK4/s400/doe+at+feeder+book.jpg" /></span></a></div><span style="color: #93c47d;"> I so long for simple days. . .where work is not so important, that is the kind of work that puts food on the table. I look forward to the desired work to continue my existence in the "Realm". </span><br />
<span style="color: #93c47d;"> Thanks to </span><a href="http://www.amazon.com/"><span style="color: #93c47d;">http://www.amazon.com/</span></a><span style="color: #93c47d;"> I have further simplified my life my selling off more "stuff" I no longer need. The weight lifted off my shoulders is a good feeling and I will not miss the "stuff" much. After all, it is just "stuff". </span><br />
<span style="color: #93c47d;"> Most of the people I deal with on a regular basis do not seem to understand my position and seem to fear my slow but continuing effort to simplify. Thus, I appear to be distancing myself from them. My life views and theirs don't seem to mesh anyway and I am more comfortable with that. In my world the things most people enjoy and expect are not a factor for my happiness. Especially the younger people. With this economy and how I feel our government is screwing up everything for everybody, I am amazed how the younger people still think bigger is better and more is the merrier. They don't seem happy with small and paid for, and continue to dig into a debt filled life. They seem to avoid the up front slap in the face we are getting and keep watching their televisions and buying all that is fed to them to keep them quiet and lulled into a fake existence that is tearing at the fabric of our lives. </span><br />
<span style="color: #93c47d;"> I long to be at the cabin where no newspapers or television will ever be allowed. I am content to enjoy my coffee and watch nature around me. Nature that needs the human race to protect it rather than destroy it. These beautiful creatures that share their lives with me have no knowledge of how close they are coming to destruction if we (humans) are not careful. Our greed and selfishness which unfortunately is an inherent trait of our species; especially as our numbers increase at staggering speed. We destroy not realizing we are doing so until it is too late. We WILL spoil everything for everyone including our unknowing friends in the woods, if we don't stop and think about what we are doing. </span><br />
<span style="color: #93c47d;"> Many millions of Americans have not ever had the pleasure of seeing these creatures up close and personal in real time and in real life. Most only see the nature shows on television and many do not even care about those, being wrapped up in their own confusing, get all I can before you do attitudes. We must be so careful as the balance is not so balanced anymore. I, personally fear for that.</span><br />
<span style="color: #93c47d;"> Realizing this myself, I am trying to be so very careful to do the right thing for me and all that I care for.</span><br />
<span style="color: #93c47d;"> This, being my third winter back from the tropics I am finally accepting with open arms, the frosty blast of the season, now that I have this new vision which has opened before me these past several years.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-90127854251797067302009-11-24T06:58:00.001-06:002010-02-23T15:39:22.911-06:00(7) Energy<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> <span style="color: #6aa84f;"> Lighting is easy. I use kerosene lamps and make my own candles. Maintenance is easy and cost per hour is cheap. I also have two Mag flashlights. One, a small 2 cell AA, I have had for twenty five years and a larger five cell I have had for about fifteen years both work extremely well and use little energy especially since I converted the small one to a LED bulb a couple of years ago, purchased from Walmart at a reasonable cost. Now, the batteries, (this current set) have been in over a year and it provides very good illumination. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> I love music and this is a bit of a problem as batteries are expensive. Recharge-ables are nice but don't last as long. I have a satellite radio which is perfect. Operates on eight D cells or ac power. The sound is phenomenal and I can plug in the IPOD. Under battery power I get about three hours use for the price of eight batteries. Using recharge-ables (much more expensive, initial outlay) less operating time plus the fact of needing a place to recharge. I could run my tiny generator but there is more wear and tear and fuel cost.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> Where I live solar power is not viable nor is wind power. We get plenty of both but living deep in the woods, most of either never reach me. The cost would be very high to install enough wind or solar to harness the amount I need. The answer; don't listen to as much music or listen less often as a real treat. I don't really like that idea but it is the best cost effective way I can think of. However, I have a small Grundig multi-band radio that works very well and is very easy on power usage. Six AA's last for weeks but I lose sound quality and do not have the benefit of plugging in the IPOD. Simplify. Get rid of the IPOD! The multi-band is smaller in size and needs less space. Guess it is time to sell the satellite radio. Anybody interested in a good deal? </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia;"> That covers my energy needs inside my tiny cabin. Outside I rely on my tiny generator to power any tools that need electrical power to operate. That is not often.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia;"> I brought an old table saw to the woods and plugged it into my tiny generator. It was sluggish but I managed to saw up two burning days worth of small fallen branches and small dead trees in two hours. No splitting needed. The wood is free and the fuel cost was a quart of mixed gas. I think a smaller electric motor that draws less amps would solve the sluggishness. A lot easier than a noisy chainsaw and easier on my old back. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: Georgia;"> I have an old gas powered pump. I think a project will be to remove the pump housing and install a pully to the pto shaft then fix the engine to the tablesaw with a hinged setup to keep the belt tight. All of this can be fitted to wheels and frame so I can pull the unit around without lifting the heavy mass. This will provide enough power to the saw blade and again be less strain on my back. The motor will run severals on a small tank of gas.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-50492002392610917522009-11-22T13:25:00.004-06:002010-02-23T15:38:25.551-06:00(6) Beautiful Buck<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKqVRI5oizlsif3nF7xE86VrKLziA7TruuSCgxegYuEfPTvaTsK74XDg92ulENKj8K0Q3gxFyzEBwr2jwtqX1azBajm1MOzIQoy_mh6KnmcHIXzVVDaY9FatMsG_d0ajfJOUtxlh2tpFk/s1600-h/Beautiful+Buck.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKqVRI5oizlsif3nF7xE86VrKLziA7TruuSCgxegYuEfPTvaTsK74XDg92ulENKj8K0Q3gxFyzEBwr2jwtqX1azBajm1MOzIQoy_mh6KnmcHIXzVVDaY9FatMsG_d0ajfJOUtxlh2tpFk/s400/Beautiful+Buck.JPG" /></a></div><span style="color: #93c47d;">Even though we are in a drought and need moisture, we have been able to enjoy some unusually warm weather for this time of year.</span><br />
<span style="color: #93c47d;"> A couple of nights ago I was lucky enough to get this photo. He is a beauty and I hope to see more of him. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #93c47d;"> P.S. I got five more pictures of this guy, all after hunting season. Glad he made it. I will be looking for his antlers this spring.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-91442101633109866132009-11-17T20:47:00.000-06:002009-11-17T21:25:24.292-06:00(5) Henery David Thoreau<div align="left" class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPS54wt3HcBZeYSwP2fCDui3-QMZWNTjhCxq_D2qtf6Z8dSf5upOBmvIG51vT9cmQVOTYWNSB_Blz_0xrZ8_xXQeKdTfVWss11XGUodciZmrWSP2JvDhEx-lQBKiJ3P6bWrD_L3gs1_8U/s1600/Thoreau+3.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPS54wt3HcBZeYSwP2fCDui3-QMZWNTjhCxq_D2qtf6Z8dSf5upOBmvIG51vT9cmQVOTYWNSB_Blz_0xrZ8_xXQeKdTfVWss11XGUodciZmrWSP2JvDhEx-lQBKiJ3P6bWrD_L3gs1_8U/s400/Thoreau+3.bmp" yr="true" /></a><br />
</div><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-large;">Read "Walden" over and over.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-18242033664857990122009-11-17T17:11:00.001-06:002010-02-23T15:36:54.785-06:00(4) The Cabin<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; text-align: justify;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #93c47d; font-family: inherit;">This is the cabin. It is a vintage 1950s travel trailer. Over the past two years I completely rebuilt the entire trailer. In the coming spring I will further rebuild by removing the outer aluminum sides and roof. I will add new framework to support a solid roof and deeper walls which will accomidate more insulation. I will add new windows.</span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #93c47d;"> I currently heat with a Mr Heater "Buddy". A propane heater which works well but with so much free wood all around me, well, I will build a wood stove based on the model you can see on the You Tube video linked to this site. That will be another Spring project. For lighting I have two standard kerosene lamps and one Alladin lamp. I also use candle votives which I refill myself as needed. I use only 00 kerosene as it has the fewest impurities and has very little smell. For water I haul in my drinking water and fill the three gallon crock you can see in the picture. All other water ie: showering, watering plants,etc. is kept in a fifty gallon barrel which I have on a small tower. My toilet is the simple five gallon plastic composter which will be housed in its new location this spring complete with half moon cutout. I have done some simple landscaping with stones, paths and flowers. I have a small firepit outside to enjoy at night. The cabin is situated on eighty acres in Northern Wisconsin. The land belongs to my brother but has generously allowed me to use. On the property is a small pond less than an acre and we have approximately four miles of walking trails to enjoy. The deer seem to enjoy them as well as many tracks follow. The interior of the cabin is panneled with Knotty Pine walls and Birch Hardwood ply ceiling. I built all cabinets and shelves mostly with recycled materials. Actually, I have used and still use when I can, recycled materials. The current windows came from my grandmothers old mobile home and will be replaced with wood sash windows that will open to the inside. I have a small generator that I use to power tools when needed. My cooking stove is a single burner Coleman propane. Currently I spend a couple of days a week at the cabin but hope to move in full time. I have photographed many animals and birds here and there are several that come around regularly for a treat. The cabin interior is aproximately seven by twelve feet. This may sound small but I lived aboard sailboats for twenty years, many, with less living space. I am used to small space living and feel any more would be a waste. All of those years aboard small sailboats taught me how to be frugal and to live simply with less while still being quite happy. There is a very rough road (path) I am able to drive to get to the cabin but in winter I will have to pack in.</span> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF0KVy-tsUwAIZj7jqc3Zd5VpJZr_yf3LV9cCItUpQG3g3Xa6oJMk7D4IolB2Np-MG12SKqmK613DAgkmG7za-E-_gNlwrwtI1WKsGxH9Si9KKne4EjuDuiS-Sg52SwhqsyL5Y8JE6Tks/s1600/2010_0913fallcabin0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF0KVy-tsUwAIZj7jqc3Zd5VpJZr_yf3LV9cCItUpQG3g3Xa6oJMk7D4IolB2Np-MG12SKqmK613DAgkmG7za-E-_gNlwrwtI1WKsGxH9Si9KKne4EjuDuiS-Sg52SwhqsyL5Y8JE6Tks/s320/2010_0913fallcabin0018.JPG" yr="true" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT9iWo1ZSdo14c92BrWUpjqKHLyeznqML3DwfbHoPNIsWisdriliGvDJssxUHjJfxNgxHo_4ApdQE8jgThVWvHPkBmf-Va_ZlKRenuR8c7pRN2TPPlTJD6gyCmzC4Uotklxh2kRYAP-dU/s1600/2010_0913fallcabin0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT9iWo1ZSdo14c92BrWUpjqKHLyeznqML3DwfbHoPNIsWisdriliGvDJssxUHjJfxNgxHo_4ApdQE8jgThVWvHPkBmf-Va_ZlKRenuR8c7pRN2TPPlTJD6gyCmzC4Uotklxh2kRYAP-dU/s320/2010_0913fallcabin0020.JPG" yr="true" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-aOCrxrnX0hlOQlGmFsuIeKzS-KaaY6rzodOduHW3ugB-o4PAN4f2Cy2WihE8tTin0ngFF9PaAai-Gc0XNVQwC0-8PZ-vmzuiGtmERI9En5QVQUajok2QcvTURlqCQafzd8PfuUM2KI/s1600/2010_0913fallcabin0008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu-aOCrxrnX0hlOQlGmFsuIeKzS-KaaY6rzodOduHW3ugB-o4PAN4f2Cy2WihE8tTin0ngFF9PaAai-Gc0XNVQwC0-8PZ-vmzuiGtmERI9En5QVQUajok2QcvTURlqCQafzd8PfuUM2KI/s320/2010_0913fallcabin0008.JPG" yr="true" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxo5AImOhknUsxj4NQS8eHO4J2Zmh6-F0cKAqxuN9Y3KXJMPpkbIxLj0GHF1Dqkm1yTgop3Cx2TQQdIcAzuZkRZFhMj0eAYNMpkd9m6LLoQg-qbTAhCvQtRTUk48aWXWHzbk2yBzw2a9Q/s1600/2010_0913fallcabin0014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="cssfloat: left; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxo5AImOhknUsxj4NQS8eHO4J2Zmh6-F0cKAqxuN9Y3KXJMPpkbIxLj0GHF1Dqkm1yTgop3Cx2TQQdIcAzuZkRZFhMj0eAYNMpkd9m6LLoQg-qbTAhCvQtRTUk48aWXWHzbk2yBzw2a9Q/s320/2010_0913fallcabin0014.JPG" yr="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiseHmBfZQ4b3mEYeOCiMFZCPw07TEEKn87zhWaL92_OfiBDXaMeUPdIKVLOOwWC8HhKlP2AUVXU-dIpeKRs8-9JUW4UZVr8TPPIHD_sF0E1puQwKv8akvw1RJR4kygq49iQCe8ib8xyb4/s1600/nov+09+nite+cabin+(9).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiseHmBfZQ4b3mEYeOCiMFZCPw07TEEKn87zhWaL92_OfiBDXaMeUPdIKVLOOwWC8HhKlP2AUVXU-dIpeKRs8-9JUW4UZVr8TPPIHD_sF0E1puQwKv8akvw1RJR4kygq49iQCe8ib8xyb4/s400/nov+09+nite+cabin+(9).JPG" yr="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPK06uFom_yhCTs3MysrXOZWZWtSK_hMcxEtDK5GeV4ODmifGD9O-IPLq7vYcW0dsj8cFxTH5MlDx4vmIN7wgAvWu7BORrXhBMvfwlPvy0U1Von31e5Y530O9q0nTa4HC8_0YNGNpAU8/s1600/2010_0913fallcabin0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigPK06uFom_yhCTs3MysrXOZWZWtSK_hMcxEtDK5GeV4ODmifGD9O-IPLq7vYcW0dsj8cFxTH5MlDx4vmIN7wgAvWu7BORrXhBMvfwlPvy0U1Von31e5Y530O9q0nTa4HC8_0YNGNpAU8/s320/2010_0913fallcabin0023.JPG" yr="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_bpM2pWEFflnigENFZ3RVf63weZxTUObCIWhRwLia1FdM6YaqgGb2mL9HxV4F34n1huit3G0HFvSqouhLGP4anrrhljbH2v9wpX2jS1zBMrOTk719GrUDce08sjTCF92KO_R4Z9Mtas/s1600/2010_0913fallcabin0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_bpM2pWEFflnigENFZ3RVf63weZxTUObCIWhRwLia1FdM6YaqgGb2mL9HxV4F34n1huit3G0HFvSqouhLGP4anrrhljbH2v9wpX2jS1zBMrOTk719GrUDce08sjTCF92KO_R4Z9Mtas/s320/2010_0913fallcabin0021.JPG" yr="true" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-H027AsJ5I3-aOfAQUS5xr2kygRtHGvguNCYw8cWoIE6AJ-2Jmoe2Dgyw-mMFkqq_FwsuPzD_PsaYeGrdeBjAuQmXSYK5O8AcXHAuZy0Q_d9XwnkNyyOeZbeFA7p2MyFwYP8H3Gc_7w/s1600/2010_0913fallcabin0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1-H027AsJ5I3-aOfAQUS5xr2kygRtHGvguNCYw8cWoIE6AJ-2Jmoe2Dgyw-mMFkqq_FwsuPzD_PsaYeGrdeBjAuQmXSYK5O8AcXHAuZy0Q_d9XwnkNyyOeZbeFA7p2MyFwYP8H3Gc_7w/s200/2010_0913fallcabin0006.JPG" yr="true" /></a></div>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-78290689654329204082009-11-17T12:37:00.001-06:002010-02-23T15:35:39.744-06:00(3) Night Visitors<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJmsQAus6a-rjp2Kl0u2XlOzBSeF_WIE-lv726F78U6aRGXB0N93-LWPiLFAysRLga9X4crsMPsGFfMYPIPNHJha34F_Et6FTaG2tYvtUX1_wOJXr_6sM8-NlowiHMcF_QazBFSPMnYA/s1600/use.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405144496358697026" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSJmsQAus6a-rjp2Kl0u2XlOzBSeF_WIE-lv726F78U6aRGXB0N93-LWPiLFAysRLga9X4crsMPsGFfMYPIPNHJha34F_Et6FTaG2tYvtUX1_wOJXr_6sM8-NlowiHMcF_QazBFSPMnYA/s320/use.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 256px;" /></a> <span style="color: #93c47d;">11/16/09 Two hours ago, it is now 9:30 p.m. I was sitting by my little fire on a chilly evening, enjoying its warmth. I had a radio at low volume for comfort and the fire happily cracking and popping. I heard above the radio and to the East a rustle in the leaves nearby. I leaned over and lowered the already low volume and picked up the flashlight. I shined in the direction of the sound and was met by the green glow of two eyes. They stared into the light but continued to near. Eventually, I discerned the shape of Mama Doe who was making her way to the corn trough not sixty feet away. She was slow and deliberate but steady. She made the trough and began munching. I turned off the torch and leaned over to tend the fire having a few sticks of wood handy. After the adjustment I turned my attention back to Mama. I could hear her noisily munching. Light on, she scarcely noticed me with the occasional glance, never of fear. Briefly I heard more rustleing and shined in that direction and two more eyes appeared; it was one of her young now full grown. Mama took leave of her post and moved slowly away. I thought I would lose them both but to my delight the younger took Mamas' place. Nearly a half-hour passed and she too decided to leave. She slowly walked to the Northeast, close by the cabin and worked her way back into the deep woods occasionally lowering her head nibbling at whatever. I was content and again raised the volume a bit as the "Blues" was good and I was happy.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6241296524432850130.post-4748313452893097052009-11-15T13:27:00.001-06:002010-02-23T15:34:06.144-06:00(2) The "Realm" continued<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwcltIWogr_O-a34kLtwSCwTSZsirLUnIO9KA4Arjvp-pUXqFa0PmYUBoFROlnUXOM2CZmmem3nOABy9s4xV72vCN2f3kS81lkgLZL4ktXoDY7eIzvbu5AgO8Hcervvj3Eezfh_9YW4ro/s1600-h/97_Foodcourt+trail+east+5.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404415320181100290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwcltIWogr_O-a34kLtwSCwTSZsirLUnIO9KA4Arjvp-pUXqFa0PmYUBoFROlnUXOM2CZmmem3nOABy9s4xV72vCN2f3kS81lkgLZL4ktXoDY7eIzvbu5AgO8Hcervvj3Eezfh_9YW4ro/s320/97_Foodcourt+trail+east+5.JPG" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 320px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
<span style="color: #93c47d;">Getting closer. I do appreciate all of the advances we have made. I am afraid, like so many others, of what this has done to us as a species. We expect more, waste more and care less about; Ourselves, others, our environment, nature and its inhabitants. I think the media and how we interpret it has been our worst enemy. Advertisers are the worst. They use their media to encourage us to expect more. They expect us to replace our goods sooner than we need to, consequiently , manufacturers build for obsolecence and we just accept it. That is not right, such a waste. So much good can be found in others trash. It is acceptable for us to "rummage" for what we can use. It is a step in the right direction. I am always on the lookout for items I need to both, recycle and get by cheaper. Don't get me wrong, I am not cheap but if I can be satisified by reusing something so be it and I don't feel any less the person for it. In fact, I feel better because I am trying to help stop the waste.</span>Rick Harrisonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10924753643545249872noreply@blogger.com2