Simple Tray Deck Bird Feeders
If you are in need of a simple solution to feeding your feathered friend but do not have room for traditional feeders, how about a simple tray deck bird feeder?
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Simple Tray Deck Bird Feeders
11 Must-See Lighthouses in Door County Wisconsin
11 Must-See Lighthouses in Door County Wisconsin
Love lighthouses? How about a peninsula that has 11 must-see lighthouses? The 11 must-see lighthouses in Door County Wisconsin will impress any lighthouse lover or history buff.
Frog Bay Tribal National Park Bayfield Wisconsin
Frog Bay Tribal National Park Bayfield Wisconsin
Frog Bay Tribal National Park is the first national tribal park in Wisconsin and all of the United States. The property is owned by the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and has 180 acres, of which, there are two trails open to the public.
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Jack in the Pulpit
Jack in the Pulpit
A common woodland plant that produces purple-spotted and striped leaves in the spring (April–May).
Strawberry Berry Bliss Topping
Strawberry Berry Bliss Topping
I was hoping to find a winning combination to replace my chocolate topping addiction – looking for something I could make from whole ingredients and that would give my sweet tooth a kick but wouldn’t interfere with my waistline goals too much.
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Blister Beetle
Blister Beetle
One of many beetles in the blister beetle family. The beetles are part of the Meloidae family, they are called blister beetles for a good reason.
Spittlebug
Spittlebug or Froghoppers in the Garden
If you have a vegetable garden or a flower garden at some point you will see proof of spittlebug or froghoppers in the garden. Proof you ask? What is that proof?
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Early MeadowRue
Early MeadowRue
Early Meadowrue is generally found in places that have not been disturbed by human interaction.
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Rosemary and Orange Vinegar
With fresh herbs growing plentiful in my deck boxes and having a fresh supply of oranges for the Baltimore Orioles, I decided to whip up a batch of rosemary and orange vinegar. The most difficult portion of this recipe is the two week wait time!
Trout Lily
The woods are blooming full of trout lily in Wisconsin. I have been lucky to track down each of the varieties, except the pink variety this year thus far.
Stuffed Green Pepper Soup
Nothing better to warm the insides on a cold and rainy day than to make a kettle of stuffed green pepper soup. The recipe is a fairly easy and requires minimal work; just fry, chop, measure, dump and simmer until perfection. My kind of EASY and QUICK.
Chia Seed Muesli Overnight Oats Recipes
Chia Seed Muesli Overnight Oats Recipes
I have been experimenting with chia seed muesli overnight oats recipes the past few days. Organic Chia Seeds
Nodding Onion Flowers
If you are looking for any easy garden flower that will thrive and grow in any condition, and most lighting conditions, the nodding onion flowers might be a plant you wish to look at.
American Goldfinch
The American Goldfinch is a beautiful songbird that you can easily attract you your backyard. The males have bright yellow coats with a bold black cap and black wings barred with white. The female is less striking with olive-yellow feathers.
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Slugs
Slugs
Slugs create plenty of damage to fruits, vegetables, plant leaves and seedlings. What does the damage look like? How can you get rid of these pests in your gardens?
6 Ways to Keep Ants Out of Hummingbird Feeders
6 Ways to Keep Ants Out of Hummingbird Feeders
Ants are attracted to sugar and sweetness and since hummingbird feeders are made up of sugar water, they of course are going to go straight for the mixture. Here are 6 ways to keep ants out of your hummingbird feeders.
Slow Cooker Jambalaya
Slow Cooker Jambalaya
Rain! It has been pouring in the middle of winter. I have a swimming pool in my backyard where snow is supposed to be. Sorta funny! That brings me to want to make a recipe that is both a hearty and spicy comfort food to enjoy – slow cooker Jambalaya is on the menu for supper tonight.
The Last Covered Bridge in Wisconsin
The Last Covered Bridge in Wisconsin
Wisconsin once had over 40 covered bridges. The last covered bridge in Wisconsin is located in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. That is just an amazing fact to me.
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Take Some Thyme to Dilly Dally in My Garden
Take Some Thyme to Dilly Dally in My Garden
Want to share my images on your blog? Read here.
All my herbs planted in a small portable container. Make cute signs for your planters by painting extra large craft sticks and 1 paint stick in an assortment of bright colors. Attach large craft sticks to paint stick with Waterproof Sticky Ass Glue 
Posts contain affiliate links.
Additional Posts
All Planting Containers
Growing Lemongrass
Prevent Slugs in the Garden
Slow Cooker Chicken Stock
Slow Cooker Chicken Stock
Have a rotisserie chicken that you are going to use for meals this week? If so, save the carcass and the legs. It makes delicious bone broth slow cooker chicken stock. I love to use the broth in my soups and gravies.
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Rose Gold Poster Collection
Rose Gold Poster Collection
Nature prints kissed by gold!
About the Design
A collection of digitally drawn leaves, twigs, and branches. Nature prints that have been kissed with a touch of rose gold.
The color scheme is a pastel purple and green/gray with rose gold accents.
Where You Can Purchase
The poster prints are listed in the Zazzle marketplace.
Additional Posts That May Interest You
Sprinkles Make Everything Better
Why Not Dare Yourself
Artistic Collection
Frigid Shores Of Lake Michigan
Frigid Shores Of Lake Michigan
The frigid shores of Lake Michigan are still giving us a winter show by creating wonderful ice sculptures.
Just Humming Along Wagon
Just Humming Along Wagon
Repurpose an old wagon into a hummingbird fiesta.
Want to share my images on your blog? Read here.
Paint the wagon a bright, vivid red coloring and add flowers that hummingbirds enjoy. Here are 10 flowers to plant.
Feeding garden stations on wheels are so it is easy to pull into the garage in cases of frost. Go ahead plant your flowers in early spring and wheel them in at night.
Gorgeous Sandy Beach Hideout Collection
Gorgeous Sandy Beach Hideout Collection
Can’t think of a place I’d rather be at the present moment. Inside, warm and feeling some accomplishment adding an additional set to the art print collection. This gorgeous sandy beach hideout collection was taken along the shores of New Smyrna, Florida, it was a beautiful walk.
The three images were processed together and have my light signature texture. Feel free to purchase one print or all three in the collection.
Designs are listed in my Smugmug & Fine Art America store. Each will carry a different assortment of art choices. If you want to read more about the storefronts and ordering process, click here.
Additional Posts That May Interest You:
Snowdrops & Forget Me Nots
Fairytale Pink Blowballs
Uncurling Fern Prints
Tend Your Own Rocks
Photo & Video Overhead Rig
Photo & Video Overhead Rig
I built this to use as a multi-purpose rig for overhead video and photography. The cost was under $40.00. You will find important notes under the pictures and also a link to the clamp I used in the description under the first picture.
White Breasted Nuthatch
White Breasted Nuthatch
The white-breasted nuthatch has been one busy bird today collecting goodies from the feeder.
Do Flies Drink Water
Do Flies Drink Water Print
Why? Why, didn’t I think flies drank water before this week? After a rainstorm, I was out searching for raindrops on flowers in my yard but this fly captured my attention.
White Rock Ranch Rural Collection
White Rock Ranch Rural Collection
White Rock Ranch rural collection of three farm fine art prints that were all processed together for any country home decor loving soul.
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Winter Bliss
Winter Bliss
Only a few days before Christmas and I have everything set and ready. All the gifts are wrapped and food has been purchased. Now it is time for some winter bliss. A drive from Green Bay to Kewaunee, Wisconsin and maybe even to Algoma is what I have in store.
Rural Rushville
Rural Rushville Collection
3 rural rushville prints that have been processed together using the same digital technique. If you love early Americana decor – you will love this set.
Birds You May Find in Your Backyard
Birds You May Find in Your Backyard
A running list of birds that you may find in your backyard along with some interesting facts, and possible additional reading posts that may help you attract them to your backyard.
Sunflower Head Bird Feeders
Sunflower Head Bird Feeders
Do you grow sunflowers? I don’t have a designated spot to grow them; however they do grow in my yard. The birds plant them!
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Breakfast Jam Bars
Breakfast Jam Bars
If you enjoy having a sweet treat for breakfast like a rich muffin or donut, replace your habit with these breakfast jam bars. They will satisfy any sugar craving and give your body a healthy morning sugar boost.
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
This slow cooker chicken tortilla soup is one that I enjoy making because my family members think I slaved all day creating it. In reality, it starts with shredding a rotisserie chicken, chopping an onion and opening a few cans.
Pressure Cooker Blueberry Steel Cut Oats
Pressure Cooker Blueberry Steel Cut Oats
Man is it cold out. The rain is bone chilling. I don’t even want to be outdoors and that is saying a lot, coming from me.
I decided last week to go back to making all our meals ahead of time. It saves me time, energy and money. Today, was the perfect time to start! I’m sharing one of my husband’s favorite morning breakfasts. Pressure cooker blueberry oats.
Dried Fruit Medley Bird Food Recipe
Dried Fruit Medley Bird Food Recipe
Want to feed some picky eaters that normally don’t always come to the feeder? Make up this dried fruit medley bird food recipe. Provide a separate tray of this speciality mix away from your main feeders to tempt some new guests.
Oversized Flower Funnel
Oversized Flower Funnel
Want to share my images on your blog? Read here.
The bold red pansies against the oversized, galvanized Metal farm funnel look terrific. Bury the funnel halfway in the dirt and plant your garden flowers. Simple, easy and elegant.
Save Those Seeds
Different Types of Plants for a Water Garden
Different Types of Plants for a Water Garden
Three types of plants for a water garden that are most common in ponds and water gardens. Overview of the different groups.
Copper Culture State Park
Copper Culture State Park
This weekend my husband and I took a Saturday fall drive through Oconto and Marinette Counties, visiting new sites and revisiting a few old ones that I had been to. Copper Culture State Park was one of our stops.
Millie Mine Bat Viewing Site and Trail
Millie Mine Bat Viewing Site and Trail
Millie Mine bat Viewing site and trail system is an excellent way to spend an hour or so in Iron Mountain, Michigan.
Corn Roast & Flavored Butter
Corn Roast & Flavored Butter
Right now fresh ears of corn on the cob are plentiful in the grocery store and along roadside produce stands. The price is right, too. Under 25 cents a serving. Can’t beat that. Normally, that means we would be up for hosting a corn roast & flavored butter with drinks at our house. Due to scheduling this year, that might not happen.
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Display and Dry Hydrangeas
Display and Dry Hydrangeas
The hydrangeas are in full bloom and beautiful but you are wondering how to keep the beauty going all year. Simple trick here to dry them and it isn’t anything SPECIAL!
Da Yoopers Tourist Trap
Da Yoopers Tourist Trap
Da Yoopers Tourist Trap in Ishpeming, Michigan. My photography travels are experiences. Exploration and if you can grab a few laughs along the way … memories are made. Nobody can ever take away your experiences. Everything else can be stripped away in a heartbeat. Your memories and experiences cannot be taken from you. Unless you suffer from dementia – and then you have picture proof 🙂
Fish Pellets as Fertilizer
Fish Pellets as Fertilizer
Whenever I can I like to use organic fertilizers. People ask me all the time how I grow such mammoth rhubarb plants and I always grin and I say I’m not sure. That grin should be a tell all – I do know, I’m just not telling. Until today. Fish pellets as fertilizer is the secret.
Canyon Falls
Canyon Falls
My daughter and I are heading out to spend a couple of days in Upper Michigan. No plans, just driving looking to get ourselves into some trouble as I told my husband. Canyon Falls was a bathroom stop that turned into a hidden treasure.
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Test Your Soil For Lead
Test Your Soil For Lead Before Planting Your Garden
If your garden is located near or next to a home, barn or additional structure that was built before 1978 test your soil for lead before planting your garden. Otherwise, you might be ingesting lead through your plants or tracking lead based soil into your home.
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Growing Weeks Needed For Fall Crops
Growing Weeks Needed for Fall Crops
Wondering how many growing weeks are needed for a certain fall crop? I’ve made a simple guide to give you a clear idea. You will want to bookmark or save this guide for your mid summer plantings.
Why Feed Jello to Houseplants
Why Feed Jello to Houseplants
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Eggshells Agitate Ants
Eggshells Agitate Ants
Here is a fun fact for you and a reason to save your eggshells. For some reason, eggshells agitate ants enough to relocate them. The process is simple, really and cheap. For the most part, it works wonderfully to push ant hills out of an area or discourage them from going into an area.
How to Clean a Birdbath
How to Clean a Birdbath
Is it time to clean your birdbath? You just cringed – I feel your pain. Here is an easy way to clean your birdbath and check out the link on how to clean a birdbath and keep the water fresh and clean.
Safe Solution for Aphids
Safe Solution for Aphids
Every plant can have an aphid issue at some point. Aphids feed on all plants and leaves by piercing stems and leaves and sucking the fluid out of them. Let’s find out what an aphid is and safe solutions for aphid removal.
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Aztalan State Park
Spent the weekend exploring some of Jefferson County, Wisconsin as I have for the past 3 years. My husband enjoys attending the Spyder Rendezvous in Johnson Creek and I selectively attend certain portions and catch up with friends from the event. The rest of the time, I am out exploring the area. Here is what I did…
Hiking Crevice Rock
Hiking Crevice Rock
The first part of this hike is a moderate 1.4-mile trail that offers beautiful views of the stone cliffs and excellent views of Sugar Creek in Turkey Run State Park in Marshall, Indiana.
Big Clifty Falls
Big Clifty Falls
Pictured is the upper rim of Clifty Canyon (Big Clifty Falls) at the north end of Clifty State Park in Madison, IN. Read More
Roasting Pan Flower Container
Roasting Pan Flower Container
Want to share my images on your blog? Read here.
A roasting pan flower container found from a tag sale makes the most interesting planting choice. The lid placed behind the pan makes the greens pop.
Old Birdhouse Planter
Old Birdhouse Planter
Want to share my images on your blog? Read here.
Repurpose an old birdhouse with low growing annuals and greens. Believe me, they look terrific.
Belgian Brick by Brick
Belgian Brick by Brick
As part of my heritage I have found great pleasure in asking questions and seeking properties that still house some of the first settlers homes. I was on my way to Sugar Creek last week and decided to reshoot this old Belgian brick home and outbuilding.
Printable Bathroom Wall Art
Printable Bathroom Wall Art
I was looking for some cute framed sayings to add to my bathroom decor and I really didn’t like anything I came across in the stores. I decided to make my own printable bathroom wall art.
Then, I remembered that my daughter had given me some white, 8×10 frames for Christmas last year and I figured maybe I should just make something to print out to tie the distressed frames to.
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Growing Inspiration
Growing Inspiration
Turning neglect of my raspberry plants into art. Heavy grain and an antique finish pulled these prints together. Blurring the lines between photography and art. There are 3 prints in this set.
Wildflowers to Plant for Birds Video
video
Enlarge video by using double arrows in corner.
A video you can share or save that highlights the main points of this post.
Selecting Garden Plant Bulbs
Selecting Garden Plant Bulbs
I’m a person that likes to see and hold my bulbs in my hand when selecting garden plant bulbs. So, ordering my bulbs from an online source is out of the question for me. But, sometimes, it happens that I have to order online. In that case I cross my fingers and hope I get good ones. After they arrive I still go over the 4 simple steps below. If they fail, the postmaster will get them back.
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Chipmunk Itch He Can’t Scratch
Chipmunk Itch He Can’t Scratch
A poor little guy has an itch he just couldn’t seem to get to.
(All my photography is fulfilled by a contracted company. Read about this here. )
Watched him chase his tail for a period of time and then finally, hopped up on a wooden fence to grab his tail and chomped down.
You could see the instant relief in his eyes. Then he happily went on his way.
Shooting Wildlife? Extend Your Focus by 2X
Canon Users:
Canon users can extend a lenses focal length by a factor of 2x. Compatible with Select EF fixed focal length L-series lenses 135mm and over, as well as the EF 70-200/2.8L, EF 70-200/2.8L IS, EF 70-200/4L, and EF 100-400/4.5-5.6L Type your model number into the search to see if you can use it.
If you can’t afford to shell out the big bucks, this is the next best thing to being able to fill your frame with wildlife and still be a distance away.
Blue Cheese Potato Salad Recipe
Blue Cheese Potato Salad Recipe
A few weeks ago I stopped off to see what items they had prepared at the deli. I was looking for something different to try. Their blue cheese potato salad recipe caught my eye.
Uncurling Woodland Fern Prints in Black and White
Uncurling Woodland Fern Prints in Black and White
Set of 4 uncurling woodland fern prints in black and white. Can be purchased together or individually. There is something magical about the growth of woodlands ferns. The plant pops up out of nowhere and slowly, and gracefully meets the sky.
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Catbird Cries
video
After viewing the video, you will understand how the catbird received its name.
Catbird Cries
The catbird has a unique sound. If there are a few catbirds in the area it may sometimes sound like cats fighting. After listening to the soundtrack, do agree the bird sounds like a cat?
Soft Fairytale Pink Dandelion Art Prints
Soft Fairytale Pink Dandelion Art Prints
This collection of six prints was photographed and processed to be a mix and match set. You can pick one of the prints or all six of them. The prints were photographed using a macro lens and then batch processed using a special texture that I created to give them all a dreamy, soft fairytale pink look.
Rainy Day Boot Planters
Rainy Day Boot Planters
Want to share my images on your blog? Read here.
You Don’t Have to Wait For a Rainy Day! Plant up a slew of old rain boots. They look darling.
South Dakota Here We Come
South Dakota Here We Come
South Dakota here we come. South Dakota has on my watchlist for some time. The Badlands, Ghost towns, Blackhills, Needles Highway, Custer State Park, I’m sure you understand.
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57 Theme Gift Basket Ideas
57 Theme Gift Basket Ideas
The sky’s the limit when you create a gift basket. You can purchase smaller go-together items, relatively cheap and packaged them together, to make a perfect gift. Here are 57 Theme Gift Basket Ideas to consider…
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Washington Island
Washington Island
Washington Island is about 7 miles northeast off the tip of Door County, Wisconsin. The island can be reached by crossing by Death’s Door in Lake Michigan’s waters by ferry from Ellison Bay at the Northport Pier.
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Handfeeding Chickadees and Nuthatches
Handfeeding Chickadees and Nuthatches
The calendar states it is spring in Wisconsin, so darn it, warm up already. Instead, we have 34-degree weather, with tiny, snowflakes drifting down from the sky every once in awhile. My teens are off for spring break and our family had decided between work schedules and additional commitments, we were staying home for spring break. This is not our family, is it?
Grand Island Michigan Ice Caves
Grand Island Michigan Ice Caves
Second day of our two day trip to Upper Michigan. Today we are headed to Grand Island Michigan ice caves and we have Green and Blue Spikes Of Kryptonite on our minds. You can read about Day 1 Here.
Save Money on Groceries
How to Save Money on Groceries
Time to tighten the budget. How to save money on groceries. I know how to do it. But truthfully, sometimes I find it to be WORK. Just as much work as a fulltime job. Taking the time to plan out EVERYTHING is a pain. I’m not one who likes to sit down and take two hours out of my week to pre-plan before shopping. Checking store ads, price comparing, cutting and organizing coupons; ugh! I did all that back in the 90’s. Refunding and couponing was a large part of our household back then. Both are more than acceptable ways to save money. I just do not have the time and commitment for it today.
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Storing Tuberous Begonia for Winter
Storing Tuberous Begonia for Winter
Did you believe you had to throw out your beautiful plants at the end of each season? Nope. Don’t! I’ll show you how easy storing tuberous begonia for winter really is.
Tomato Paste Recipe
Tomato Paste Recipe
Looking for a way to use up all your garden tomatoes? How about making this tomato paste recipe? Tomato paste is used in plenty of hearty meals through the winter months.
If you make your own it is guaranteed to be tastier the store bought and have a lot less salt.
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Digging Up Canna Bulbs
Digging Up Canna Bulbs
In the Midwest we find ourselves digging up canna bulbs to store for winter.
If we chose not to; we will lose our plant and have to purchase new bulbs the following spring. Some gardeners prefer to purchase yearly.
Others, including myself, will lift our bulbs and reuse them.
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St Coletta Jefferson Wisconsin
One thing I absolutely love about traveling is that it provides me with a constant source of education. Over the weekend, I attended The 4th Annual Spyder Rendezvous in Johnson Creek, Wisconsin with my husband. Heavy rain prevented me from riding with the group on Friday. I admit it, I’m a wimp and my dry car provided a comfortable alternative for the day’s travels. I spent some time exploring St Coletta Jefferson Wisconsin.
Longtail Point Lighthouse Green Bay
Propane Tips From This Grilling Gal
Propane Tips From This Grilling Gal
I have been told MEN run the grill. Not at my house! If you are invited over for a cookout, the woman of the house takes over that job. Let me pass on some propane tips from this grilling gal.
Flowers that Attract Hummingbirds
10 Flowers that Attract Hummingbirds
Want to attract hummingbirds to your yard? Your yard has to have elements that hummingbirds enjoy. Learn 10 flowers that attract hummingbirds.
Vintage Americana Photography
videoVintage Americana Photography
Healthy obsession. That’s what I call it. Albums that are chock full of vintage Americana photography prints that I sell. Antiques, old collectables and vintage finds with fabulous little details depicting life that has past us by. You can view and/or purchase out of my SMUGMUG Portfolio HERE
What is Eating My Cabbage Plants
What is Eating My Cabbage Plants
Yesterday, I received a question in my Facebook inbox that included pictures. It is an excellent question too. What is eating my cabbage plants?
What the Red Tailed Hawk Looks and Sounds Like Video
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Red Tailed Hawk
You can find red-tailed hawks in every eco-system there is. This raptor will hunt down voles, mice, rabbits, birds, snakes, and squirrels. You can find them sitting high in trees and on telephone poles watching for motion on edges of fields. Once the hawk spots its prey it will swoop down and pick it up.
It is common to see red-tailed hawks visit a backyard because of the selection of feeding birds available.
If you would like to get a good feel for what the red-tailed hawk looks and sounds like, by watching the short 20-second video.
How to Deep Fry a Turkey
If you haven’t enjoyed a deep fried turkey as of yet, I urge you to try it this year for Thanksgiving. Deep frying provides a crispy outside skin and super juicy meat on the inside AND no, it is not greasy. Read on how to deep fry a turkey.
Old Bird Cage Garden Planter
Old Bird Cage Garden Planter
Want to share my images on your blog? Read here.
This bird cage is amazing. Plant your over wintered geraniums in early spring and by midsummer the entire bird cage is flowing with greens and flowers.
Overwintering Geraniums
Overwintering Geraniums
I try to keep myself busy with a multitude of home and garden project during the winter. This year, I wanted to test a theory a friend passed along about overwintering geraniums.
Creamy Ham Pasta Salad
Creamy Ham Pasta Salad
Spring and summer scream pasta salads. I make a variety of pasta salads because I don’t have to cook lunch for the children. It is easy for them to grab a quick bowl when they are ready to eat.
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Spa Sock Cupcakes
Spa Sock Cupcakes
Make your own sweet treats that will be warmly received. Spa sock cupcakes make wonderful gifts. You can even make “baby” cupcakes using baby socks for shower gifts.
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How to Get Hummingbirds To Nest by You
How to Get Hummingbirds to Nest by You
How to Get Hummingbirds To Nest by You If you would like to see more hummingbirds around your yard you need to provide two sources, food and nesting materials.
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Homemade Birdseed Ornaments Make Your Own
Homemade Birdseed Ornaments Make Your Own
Follow the recipe for these birdseed ornaments and the next day you have sweet treat for your birds. The ornaments would make wonderful holiday gifts for friends and family as well as wedding favors for your guests.
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How To Make Jello Shots or Shooters In Syringes
Jello Shots or Shooters in Syringes
How to make jello shots or shooters in syringes. Jello shots or Jello shooters as they are also called are all the rage. There are many recipes with various types of liquor and flavored Jello combinations. I will give you several to try out.
Terra Cotta Clay Pot Garden Person
Terra Cotta Clay Pot Garden Person
How to Build a Terra Cotta Clay Pot Garden Person. This is a creative way to spruce up your garden and use chipped or repurposed terra cotta pots. There is no “wrong” way to build a terra cotta clay pot garden person.
Brandy Slush in Ice Cream Pail
Brandy Slush in Ice Cream Pail
Brandy Slush in Ice Cream Pail Recipe is one of my favorite holiday drinks. You don’t need to limit this drink to the holiday season though. I have served it at many of my home parties as well. It goes over extremely well at summer parties!
Smores in a Jar Recipe
Smores in a Jar
Homemade and from the heart. That is what the holidays are about. Use my smores in a jar recipe below and have a cute gift on hand for drop in guests.
The printable tag is also included to download.
How To Make Rhubarb Leaf Stepping Stones
How to Make Rhubarb Leaf Stepping Stones
You have seen them at all the craft fairs and garden centers, huge leaf shaped birdbaths and stepping stones. Learn how to make rhubarb leaf stepping stones.
Simple digging into soil, will turn this from a stepping stone into a bird bath.
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How To Make Homemade Lip Gloss and Lip Balm
How To Make Homemade Lip Gloss and Lip Balm
Once you gather up the materials to make your own lip gloss and lip balms you will wonder why you waited so long. Read how to make homemade lip gloss and lip balm to get you started.
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Camping Recipes
Camping Recipes
It’s that’s time of year, time to get out the camping gear and become one with nature. Here are a few of our families favorite camping recipes. They are easy to prepare and a breeze to clean up after. Just my style.
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Getting African Violet to Bloom
I was never one to be able to keep African violets alive, let alone getting an African violet to bloom. My grandmother was the master of healthy violets.
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How Long Are Eggs Good
Caught someone in my household throwing out the eggs this morning because they were expired. So, how long are eggs good past the sell by date?
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Chamomile Tea Using Flowers
Chamomile Tea Using Flowers
Using some of my garden chamomile flower to sit and reflect while enjoying a cup of chamomile tea.
Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage
Wondering what you can make with all the cabbage that you grew this year? Try this sweet and sour red cabbage recipe.
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How to Make Fried Marble Necklaces
How to Make Fried Marble Necklaces
How to Make Fried Marble Necklaces these are inexpensive yet extremely elegant necklaces are made by baking and internally cracking ordinary marbles. Make up a few as gifts or for your next hot seller at a craft fair. Either way you will receive rave reviews and plenty of wonderful compliments.
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Attract Mason Bees by Building Homes
Attract Mason Bees by Building Homes
Attract Mason bees by building homes. A Mason bee pollinates early spring orchards, flowers and berry canes for about a 4 week period. They collect nectar and pollen to line their nests and thus, in doing so; are pollinating all our spring following plants.
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Using Antiques as Unique Planters
Using Antiques as Unique Planters
Using antiques as unique planters – Give items a second life by using antiques as unique planters and containers. Some picture ideas to get your thoughts cycling. Mostly antiques but some additional containers too.
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Flower Bulbs in Fall for an Easter Centerpiece
Flower Bulbs in Fall for an Easter Centerpiece
Each year I’d purchased a spring flower arrangement for my Easter table. The flower arrangement was either a tulip, daffodil or hyacinth potted plant. Now, I just plant flower bulbs in fall for an Easter centerpiece.
Eastern American Toad Thrilling Video
video
The Eastern American Toad thrilling video – (thrilling) is the sound they make. The thrilling sound can last for up to 30 seconds at a time and you normally hear them in May in Wisconsin.
Currently, this is what the little pond down the street from me sounds like. The video contains one image of the toad so you know what critter to look for and the audio sound – so you too, can identify the thrilling sound the Eastern American Toad makes.
PS – Yes, the name of the sound they make is called thrilling 🙂
Additional Videos:
What the Red Tailed Hawk Looks & Sounds Like
Sound the Wood Frog Makes
The Sound of the Catbird
Common Flicker
Purchase Common Flicker Print
Common Flicker birds are fun to watch searching for insects in trees and lawns.
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Black Swallowtail Butterfly
Black Swallowtail Butterfly Print
Black Swallowtail butterfly is common in Wisconsin.
The butterfly commonly feeds on many different members of the parsley family, including parsley, carrots, dill, and parsnip. It may also feed on Common Rue.
Feeding on members of the parsley family could make this butterfly a pest for avid herb raisers if you would see heavy butterfly travel. Although, they are not normally an issue.
The best time to look for them is from June 1 – August 1. Higher numbers are always seen during July.
Additional Categories:
Garden Pests Category
Beneficial Garden Insect Category
Wisconsin Insects Category
Artistic Collection of Prints
Gardening Picture Home Page
Nose to Nose With a Raccoon
Oh my gosh! How darn cute is he?
(Picture shared on Instagram)
![](<a href="https://www.photography.nikkilynndesign.com/Wildlife-Collection/Other-Mammals/i-wfjH9cQ/A"><img src="https://photos.smugmug.com/Wildlife-Collection/Other-Mammals/i-wfjH9cQ/0/7ae8724c/L/Raccoon%20PS-L.jpg" alt="Nose to Nose"></a>)
Nose to Nose With a Raccoon
I was out laying down in the woods, dressed in brown and green clothing and covered in leaves, hoping, waiting and praying to lure in the fanning male turkeys but I received a little surprise. I looked over to see two little eyes staring at me.
I could almost hear him say, “Hey lady! Occupied!”
Guess you will have to wait on turkey photos. Yep! Got ’em too. It was a good day!!
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Springs Radiance Collection
Springs Radiance Collection
The fresh green leaf growth, new found bird life in the open fields and gentle motion of the bright, yellow grass blowing in the breeze are all signs of springs radiant dance.
It really is the sweet simple things in life that one can learn to appreciate in this springs radiance collection.
Prints That Make Up This Set
◘ Springs Radiance Birdhouse
Some of the birds have started to occupy birdhouses in the fields. The fresh green leaves and radiance of the field grass make this field inviting.
◘ Springs Radiance Robin
A robin snacking on the freshly opened sumacs. The bright radiance of spring colors is all around.
◘ Springs Radiance Rustic Fence
The fields are aglow with the bright green and yellow renewal of spring. After a hard winter, there is no better place to stand for to take in the radiance of promise for the new season.
As Displayed
I customize the images and designs in my Smugmug Storefront. This design was created by arranging (3) 20×20 square float mounted metal prints. You are free to print anything in my albums on a variety of mediums – buy one print or all of them.
Buy Photo –>This Photo –>Wall Art –>Metal –>20×20 square –>Move box on the photo to the desired location
Springs Radiance Collection
Banded Woollybear Caterpillar
Banded Woollybear Caterpillar Print
The banded woollybear caterpillar – moth can be found nearly everywhere in Wisconsin. It feeds on low growing plants but is not a pest to garden and farm crops.
The caterpillar will, however, eat a little of your herbs. Nothing much to really call it a pest, but it should be noted to rehome them if you find them hanging around your herb plants.
The caterpillar is generally found during the autumn months and doesn’t sting or bite when picked up. However, the little bristle hairs can get under your skin and cause irritation.
Some people once thought that the thickness of different bands of the bristle hair would tell how hard or cold the winter was going to be. Turns out, that is an old wives’ tale.
The caterpillar turns into the Isabella Tiger Moth.
Additional Categories:
Garden & Wildlife Videos
Fresh From the Garden Recipes
Wisconsin Insects Category
Artistic Collection of Prints
Gardening Picture Home Page
Newspaper Barrier Prevents Weeds
Newspaper Barrier Prevents Weeds
Did you know that a newspaper barrier prevents weeds in your flower garden? It is true! It helps cut down on weeding.
General Guidelines:
• Use only the black and white printed sections, no sales inserts
• Spread out at least 5 pages at a time
• Cover the newspaper with mulch
Additional Info:
• The newspaper will break down and become part of the soil
• You can easily cut a hole to add additional plants
Why It Works:
As a general rule, plants need to grow towards the light. The newspaper will block out the sun. You will already have cut holes for your regular plants and mulched around them. It will not stop weeds completely, but it sure helps!
Wood Frog
video{{{{ WOOD FROG }}}}
Ah, the lovely song of the wood frog orchestra means that spring is finally here in Wisconsin!
Have you heard them?
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Bring Scout He Said
Today is one day that my husband looks forward to, picking up the Spyder from the hunting grounds shed. I was driving with him to the grounds and driving back his truck, bring Scout he said so you have someone to ride back with. Oh, that was an excellent idea!
Walks With Wildlife
Walks With Wildlife
This week has been a glorious week, the snow is melting and the temperatures are comfortable. I have resumed my weekly walks with wildlife. Welcome spring and more wildlife and plant life to point my lens at.
Hollowed Out Log Planter
Hollowed Out Log Planter
Have an old log laying around your yard? They make wonderful planters when you hollow them out and add little knobby pieces of old paving bricks as legs to hold them steady. Cap off the ends with roughly cut and measured wood pieces.
You can see additional planters under the planting container category.
We Have Some New Birds Arriving
We Have Some New Birds Arriving
Finally, spring is upon us! We have some new birds arriving and some lingering winter bird visitors still with us.
Ovenbird Warbler Video
video
A short 15-second video that shows a picture of the ovenbird warbler and has the audio to hear what the bird sounds like.
✔ Feel free to share the video
What the Ovenbird Looks Like:
They have olive-brown upperparts and white underparts heavily streaked with black; the flanks have an olive hue. A white ring surrounds the eyes, and a black stripe runs below the cheek. They have a line of orange feathers with olive-green tips running along the top of their head, bordered on each side with blackish-brown. The orange feathers can be erected to form a small crest.
Additional Warbler Posts:
Warblers in Wisconsin
Video of Yellow Warbler Feeding Young
Gotta Catch ’em All
Sunday Drive in Early March
I’m not sure about you, but I know for me I have noticed that life seems off balance. My husband and I spend much of our time apart, due to our winter hobbies and work. We dedicate one weekend day a month together to reconnect. The pictures included in this posting are from our Sunday drive in early March to Oconto County, Wisconsin.
Sunset Over the Bay of Green Bay
Sunset Over the Bay of Green Bay
Ready for a visual vacation? Figured a few of us might need a break from looking at the traditional white snow piling up outside our front door. We need a little color in our lives! Your visual vacation is a sunset over the bay of Green Bay, Wisconsin.