November Gales in September
It's early September, the leaves are still all green and grass to mow, yet the wood stove burns for warmth at 40 degree nights. This summer has been short and sweet, with less than a week of 'days' of above 70 degrees. Geese are already gathering east to west and some high flying toward the south. Wasp nests are built high and in very sheltered places- my guess a very cold and snowy winter is coming ! Technically, the icebergs all melted in late June to early July, so we have had approximately one month of real summer- August. Hmmmm- makes me wonder .
Easter Blessings
It's officially spring. We've had our first thunderstorm, temps have risen to the mid 50's a few days and the 7 ft drifts of snow are now at 2 to 3 ft. Last week, spring birds arrived and they are hungry. Each day we have a host of migrating & seasonal birds, squirrels, crows and turkeys coming in. So we feed them, now twice a day. As soon as they see the feed drop, they swoop down and begin the feast. This morning, before even a first cup of coffee- rain was on the horizon and in the air. I figured better feed them asap. Just as soon as the feed dropped, crows, turkeys and an Eagle dropped in. A surprise, and early morning delight to watch this Easter weekend.
Apostle Island Ice Caves
Ice Caves Trip Tips
One word sums up this year Ice Caves grandeur - Glacial.
Making up for five years of unattainable conditions due to the warm winters past. The caves are a frozen cascade of rolling ice with hidden treasures inside crevice after crevice. High above the contrasting sandstone cliffs, seasoned pines and popular trees cap off the vast wintry Lake Superior view.
Tips for a Trip-
Plan on at least 4 to 5 hours of adventure- It takes 45 minutes to an hour to walk from the main parking area found at Meyers Beach Rd. Due to the constant foot traffic and wind packed snow, snow shoes are not needed, unless a fresh 12” of snow falls prior to your going. Two paths are easily accessible, one along the shoreline and the other 200 yards out on the lake. Bring a drink and snack.
Being on the Westside of Lake Superior, be prepared for a 10 to 15 temp drop if the winds are from the northwest. Mid afternoon 2:00 pm to 5:30pm on a sunny day is the best time to really enjoy the caves for a couple of reasons. The sunshine is warming and lights up areas of the caves, that at other times are deeply shadowed. Likewise, late afternoon highlights various exterior ice , giving the real sense of the magnitude and depth these formations have.
For interior shots, a flash is always a good idea as well, preferably one with reflective ability. The difference between exterior and interior natural light can be so great that only a flash can equalize exposure, even if it is a cloudy day. Likewise, save the bulk factor of hauling a tripod in unstable and tight conditions.
Lastly, bring as wide as a lens as you can! This year’s crevices are tight, packed with bulging Ice- glacial. See the difference of 2oo8 verses this 2014 year at Landscapes Gallery and
as always, enjoy the view- The ice caves are a real winter wonder!Good Ol Fashioned Winter
Captured in the moonlight. It's been a real winter this year, which means lots of snow and work keeping all our crew fed and warm - finally had a 15 degree temp rise and not snowing, so some time to shoot.
I've left these shots 'as is' to give you the real feel of walking by moonlight in the northland.
It's amazing how bright the moon's light is reflecting the snow.
It's a good ol fashioned winter this year.
Already were at around 3ft in the woods and have only hit double digits a couple times. Lots of snow- Definitely Merry and Bright- Hey, Merry Christmas!This weekend, cloudy with frost advisory, 40% chance of rain sleet or snow- A perfect weekend to get in the first cart run of the sled dog season.
I've always had 'lots' of dogs & sled dogs for 10 years , they are good and true friends and always able to make me smile. Running and exploring with them is probably my second favorite thing to do besides capturing a awesome moment. Likewise I know it is their favorite thing to do. Once on the trail, it is a quiet and very peaceful ride. There's something really beautiful about going slow enough to read the signs in the sand and snow, see the beauty of the wild passing by, hear the wind and splash of the waves, watch the beauty of the dogs in motion, at their best and enjoying every moment. We take time to relax and listen, explore and pause, reflect and renew, enjoy the moment. Looking forward to the season and good times with our 2014 fur family crew & friends, Sammy, Bella, Maggie and Harley.White Deer 'Surprise'
Here's a first for me and maybe you...It was really stunning to be surprised by the flash of white in the deep woods (for it's safety -location unknown). Almost mistaken for a lost goat, until two young bucks dashed thru the thicket. I'm not sure why this beautiful and rare white deer found our presence 'acceptable' and tolerable. Maybe it was the calm of rain, or 5 hours of traveling within a 12 mile radius, and they knew we were around, or just some serious Grace. Either way,lots of beautiful images soon to be up at Wildlife galleries and with the video also captured, certain to see again!
Slow Down
I love tourists that come up north...it breaks up the norm of our 'all season' worlds, adds quite a bit of spice & flare to living up here-there's always a sense of real appreciation for this area from visiting folks. Likewise it means nice weather has finally arrived. The only thing I'd recommend is as you visit, remember, the wildlife that lives here doesn't recognize what a 65 mile an hour car will do to their precious lives- police recognize what 65 in a 55 means, but not bears or deer or porcupines or raccoons, or even squirrels.
So seeing the black on the tree line , I was surprised to be passed, the driver surprised by a close call, and mama with babes surprised to be runnin for their lives on such a beautiful calm day. Take it easy, your on vacation!Caution ...
Here's a real life moment from yesterday. Deer were everywhere along the roadside, getting the only green. Probably will be that way for awhile, at least until all the snow melts & fields green up a bit. Nice to see them, as they've been a bit scarce this past year and are a bit jittery compared to an average spring- so as your driving along the north country beauty, remember them . They work hard to stay alive through the winter, drive with caution so they can make it through the spring!Plenty of Snow
It's April 22 2013, Still have 2 to 3' of snow and another 7 to 11" are expected tonight! How is this possible? I have no idea. A great year for dog sledding though and plenty of time to enjoy our newest friend & amazing dog Harley (center pic) and to give Bella (right- front Black dog) enough time to learn her new position as Lead dog ! Almost all winter she has been solo up front , with only few times accompanied by a seasoned lead helper. Each new late season storm just makes me smile-with x-tra time on the trails with some of the greatest four legged friends:)
Hawk Ridge
As spring draws nearer in the Northland....
Bird Migration is certain to increase with better weather -some day soon we hope!
Just happened to go up to hawk ridge in Duluth MN with time to 'fly' for the gorgeous view last fall when releases of three hawks were on the agenda. Of course, jumping at the opportunity to adopt one and set it free. Likewise, had the privilege to talk my dad into doing the same. These are a few photo memories that day-Head up there this spring, its a beauty of a view & experience!Warm memories on cold nights.
It's suppose to get down to -30 tonight. There are only two other occasions in my memory the temp has dropped so low . This photo was from the first occasion. Born at home by flashlight and lanterns, my second son, in literally 30 below. Here, his older brother, delighted to be a little helper. The second occasion was in 2007 at the Apostle Island Sled Dog Races, which are also this weekend (Feb 2-3 2013)!THE WOLVES ARE FREE TO ROAM & Illegal to Hunt AS OF 2014- Protected Great Lakes Status!
Wolf Cry - October 2012
The wolf hunting and trapping season runs October 15 to February 28, 2013 (January & February being their mating season) Have you heard how difficult it was going to be for hunters to find or even ‘kill’ a wolf ? Well apparently when you can bait a hungry animal, it’s not so difficult. Four wolves were killed with shotguns within the first day. Now to date –within a week-29 wolves have been ‘harvested’ (as described by the DNR- as if they are a crop like tomatoes) - Ten wolves from ‘zone 1’ which includes Bayfield County. ….
Once on the endangered species list, now a profitable biz. Do the math. Ten dollars a ticket to join the WI Wolf Hunt raffle- 23,000 applications = $230,000 worth of raffle tickets sold. Win the raffle get a license for $100 (if a resident of WI) $500 if not a resident. Licenses sold 7, 286 (7,150 Residents licensed =$715,000) with 136 to non-residents=$68,000. Total to ‘Harvest’ (Hunt Kill Slaughter Disrupt Mame) Wolves: $783,000. Grand Total to Hunt Wolves in WI $1,013,000.
Trusting Legislators to ‘manage’ and care for wildlife or the land is like sending Little Red Riding Hood to the candy shop with a million dollars.Enough said for now…
Update: January 2013
Here is the latest from the 'official' stewards of wildlife-
"Judge rules on hunting wolves with dogs
01/08/2013 Statement from DNR Secretary Cathy Stepp on Judge Peter Anderson’s ruling on the use of dogs for wolf hunting News Release Published: January 4, 2013 by the Central Office
Contact(s): Bill Cosh, DNR, (608) 267-2773; Dana Brueck, DOJ, (608) 266-1221 email: William.Cosh@wisconsin.gov
We are pleased that Judge Anderson removed the injunction that banned the use of dogs for hunting wolves. However, we are disappointed with Judge Anderson’s decision to prohibit training of dogs to hunt wolves.We will continue to seek input from the public and from stakeholders – including tribes – as we continue to develop permanent rules on the wolf season, and the use of dogs for both training and hunting of wolves."
Pathetic.Year after Year
Once again, for the fourth year in a row...September has been absolutely beautiful weather. Afternoon temps in the mid 70's, day after day beautiful sunshine, almost everyday calm winds, no bugs -although we know they have their place for all the beautiful birds! Just beautiful and perfect..day after day. We've got quite a few pics to add to the website in the near future of the beauty surrounding Lake Superior's south shore fall season, as everyday at least two hours has been dedicated to the outdoors!
A big storm
June 19th 2012
Looking toward the horizon of the Northshore - Duluth Mn was getting pounded with torential rain. The sky never looked so ferocious. Thought it would be a evening to catch some of the storm on camera, so the radar looked & off at dusk we went. At the wind shift, we all made a mad dash for the vehicle...yahoo! This was one of those 'what was i thinkin' moments although memorable, perhaps a little risky.
June has been a wet one this year and last, makin the most of it anywhooo! It's still difficult to imagine the next day report of Duluth flooding so severe. If there ever was a city on a hill -duluth is it- and with the Lake to catch it all below, it's really unbelievable and a sorry sight for residents. June Storms =The wiles of nature and wonders of creation.A Mild Winter
Before the Flowers Bloom...
I just have to give 'official' thanks for the BEST WINTER EVER! We sat in the morning sunshine in January and February, Enjoyed just enough snow to run the dogs all winter. It was always a distant hope one day I'd head off to Scotland again for a break from the harshness of our long 10 to 30 below winter.months.
A long awaited prayer that winter could be this mild and pleasent. Lo and behold right here in the snowbelt of Northern WI, it was as perfect as I imagined one could be.
I'm actually sorry to see winter end and was hoping for a few more good blizzards late in the year! That is hard to believe, but true. So this little post is to remember...
The best winter ever! 2011-2012Coolest Winter Run
Book Across the Bay 2012!
Saturday February 18th!
Amazingly, the event is on and a extraoridinary event at that!
Runners, snowshoes, and cross county skiers of all shapes and sizes all start in Ashland Wi.
Look for the massive bon-fire usally courtesy of Isacson's Lumber or the huge crowd ready to take off at the sound of the start . The trail across the Bay to washburn is lined by homemade ice candles courtesy of the tundra and probably alot of volunteers and good northern business's.
Once the first racer gets across the finish, fireworks begin and a grand decorated exit off the ice awaits all with more goodies of food, beverages,bonfires and music. It's something fun to do for just about everyone and in a month that is usually beyond freezin cold brrrr-
this year should be a real treat with the mild temps. Keep an eye on the website http://batb.org for updates and or results!Chequamegon Bay Birds
The Gathering...
Each fall in the northland hundreds of water birds (swans, geese and various ducks) gather on the shores of Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay in Ashland WI getting ready for the journey south. As the weeks pass more and more find refuge and rest in preparation for a long flight. It is a beautiful sight seeing hundreds of birds stretched across the shore line. The best time to see these graceful birds all depends on the change of the season from late fall- early winter to 'here to stay winter'. Once they head out (usually 2-3 weeks before the full force of winter arrives) we are soon left with only a frozen bay! Brrr!
Visit Wildlife Galleries for a closer look at 'the gathering' of geese swans and ducks.Turkey Life
Happy Thanksgiving!
TODAY IS A GOOD DAY...
as is everyday to be thankful and give thanks...
and take an hour to watch a really good show on a man who cared for and hung out with wild turkeys for a year. The Video and photography is exceptionally well done, combined with a thoughtful and pensive point of view. Check out ' my life as a turkey'
Here is a link to the full episode on PBS...
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/episodes/my-life-as-a-turkey/full-episode/7378/It's a whole new game...
This year, Bayfield and Washburn have teamed up as one...
Thus 'BAYBURN' Soccer.
It's a big team with big success so far and now playoff's are under
way. Tonight may be the last local game in Washburn at 4:00pm.
You may even be able to get a T'shirt still! The logo featured is a way cool design combing the two school mascots by :
K-Factor Designs
If you don't mind watching boy's at their best in rough weather-splashing mud,soaked cleats, & slide tackles with a splash...
come out to tonight's game:
Take County C from Washburn about 3.5 miles,
fields are on the right.
Bring $5 for game fee and a cup of coffee and $20 if you want a T'shirt as well!
Their a first generation symbolizing a whole new soccer-United!Hit the Road...
Hwy 13 right out of Superior WI is the most beautiful drive over to Bayfield...winding along the lake every now and again amidst beautiful fields and forest. Passing through the South Shores Northern most Villages - quaint, picnic by the lake perfect.
Tis the season for fall color and apples any way you can eat them!
Applefest starts this weekend and the temperature is a soaring 70-75.
The colors will be in their peak! All you should be aware to bring is a good pair of walking shoes, as it's gonna be packed and parking will most likely be a good hike!Just not right
Bear Blasting
Some things are truely hard to understand-
Bear Hunting up here is one of them.
People often bigger than the Bears, usually try to justify it -'for food'-as if we all haven't been to the store today.
Dogs chase bears for months in the woods-apparently it takes alot of training, even though a poodle as well as any house dog can make a bear fear for it's life and climb a tree, putting food out for bait and then complain
they come around houses looking for it.
The hordes of hell were marching around here the other day, as if private lands are readable to 'dogs'. It was as if the earth cracked open and all the groans of eternity were let loose. Thats what a 'chorus' of bear hunting dogs sound like. Considering the Bear , not to forget every other critter in the woods who certainly isn't off limits to a dog- it was Un-Bear-able. I'm not sure why WI hasn't come to the end of it's stupidity and banned the whole pathetic thing. Then I came across a few hunters who just shot one no bigger than a dog- I mentioned how I prefer to take their picture and was amazed at how they were so close and not a threat -even though they knew I was there.
A fella said, "yea their so stupid-they just walk up and then get blasted-they deserve to die'.
These are the guys that buy the right to walk in the woods with guns.
Visit Wildlife Galleries to appreciate Bears through a lens.The Year of Waterfalls
This spring has been extremely wet with loads & loads of rain. Making lemonade from lemons-waterfalls are the place to visit.
We've stopped, walked and toured at least 7 this year, everyone amazing in it's own unique way.
Northshore Falls in MN have incredible entrances into Lake Superior and really thoughtful people made the trails easily accessible and nicely done for all ages.
Copper Falls in WI has qualities of almost every fall we visited and is a short and worthwhile drive and walk around the winding water tour.
Amnicon Falls in WI is the teens paradise with rock slides into a pool of calm, likewise there are plenty of mini streams and pools for little ones to enjoy and swim in .
Either way North or South side of Superior- the waterfalls temps are warm and the water is flowing full and beautiful.
This is the year for waterfalls, so go get splashed!The Best things in Life are Free
Smell the beauty and behold lots to!
it's been a late and lengthy spring and by now the apple blossoms are usually long gone. This year they are just now in full splendor and with the moist air from such a lengthy damp spring the aroma is incredible.
You can't buy a perfume so sweet and beautiful.
If your looking for a place to enjoy the best things in life that are free-
Bayfield WI has it all :)UPDATE: Living Free !
__________________
Spring is almost here and before it 'officially' arrives with the beautiful sound of rain and a tint of green decoration, I wanted to introduce you to our second winter house guest, 'Frosty Frog'. In December when it rained he floated up from hibernation and was really bizarre looking and most certainly would have perished had we not rescued him from fast plummeting temps. It took about three days for him to warm up and turn 'frog'..It was about a week before he was content and happily eating a host of assorted insects. Having lived in a customized fish tank, he has amused the cat and kept us dreaming of spring over the cold winter months. Soon to be released, when the lawn is dotted by little mud holes.. we'll know all his froggy friends are ready to hop and so shall he then be set free. It was nice to have a 'science' project that required attentive care rather than dissection! That in mind, he hasn't lost sleep over it and as common as they are, it was a rare delight of winter having him abide with us.Long Winter
Winter can be a long haul. Depending on your life style and whether or not the elements of winter require more than walking from your house to your garage. This deer amongst others came out of the deep woods a few weeks ago when the temperatures were high for a few days. The whole seen in this picture is a good representation of a long winter. Seeing a bit of raw ground was a reminder, there is still ground beneath. Thankfully it looks as though more deer have survived this winter than last year. The number of deer seen (alive) in spring, usually is a good indication of how many are around.
We’re all ready for a bit of spring green.Eric Larsen Explorer
Not so long ago, in- between changing diapers,
collecting rainwater, lighting the old wick lamps
and making sure the barrel wood-stove was hot enough to keep a 1800 early settler home warm,
A breeze of smoke would hang in the air from the near by 40 ...tracks leading back to a small open area where a tent amidst mounds of snow would sit- we all knew - it must be Eric.
The guy always doing something bigger than most can imagine and braver than many would dare. Always with a purpose.
Now ...." Larsen Reaches Tallest Point on Earth, Everest Summit, Setting a World Record as First-ever Human to Hike to "Three" Poles (North and South Pole and Everest )
in 333 Days! "
Check out his website...
http://www.ericlarsenexplore.com/expedition/
Photo by Eric LarsenSo what does -20 degree's feel like?
All you northerner's know, but there are many out there who can't imagine..so this might help.
Well it's cold enough to befriend a scared cat and persuade it to weather the weather in a cozy entry way verses the dark crevices under the house.
Here Kitty Kitty,
(get filled in with december blog post)
It took about a week, to build enough trust!
Just in time for the big ' freeze '!
It's cold enough to literally 'see' the air..."freeze fog". The air crystallizes-amazingly you notice every breath you breathe.
Looks like something hollywood would have to spend millions on.
The snow is so cold it squeaks under your feet.
Within 5 minutes your fingers start to go tingly numb- with gloves.
Other than that, you wait for tomorrow and hope in a degree or two to rise.
When it does, 0 degree feels like a balmy bearable temperature :)
So did anyone out there lose this cat?Rainy Day December
Here in the North, it is a rare treat.
What can you do on a rainy December day?
1.Give Thanks it is not 10 inches of snow.
2.Hang up the turkey left overs for chickadees & Blue Jays,
noone likes to forage for fall seeds and frozen apples in the rain.
3. Let a cat in.
4. Let a dog in.
5.Wait till it freezes again and pump up the bicycle, it's a wild ride anywhere on top of the snow,over the hills, in the forest. Wear a helmet if you like dogging trees in the forest.
Update: Two days later a abandoned cat arrives and finds shelter beneath the house, wondering what it really looks like. The other six ( all spayed and neutered) fattest farm cats you'll ever see, are still debating the new visitor.Bentleyville, Duluth MN
Looking for something really "cool" & unique to do this holiday season?
Bentleyville in Duluth MN is an amazing light show! Wind through countless light displays (top notch), enjoy hot chocolate, Christmas cookies, even kid-safe fire's to warm by. Like ice-skating? Bring them.
Oh yea... and all this is free...incredible!
Never seen anything like it, it is really a great place to bring the whole family for some real "It's a wonderful life" entertainment. Last night to get there is December 26th!
Here's a link to their website:
http://www.bentleyvilleusa.org
Donations are accepted at the display!Fox 21 News Covering Soccer Passion - A Little Heads Up :)
How many times have you been told...Don't play the ball in the living room...or...the hallway...or on the stairway...or in the classroom...or in the car...or in the parking lot, or or or.
Such is the way of the passionate players.
This Sunday night October 10th 2010 Coach O'Neil and two of Bayfield's Players, Caleb Burst and Trevor LaRoche Theune will be a special feature on Fox 21 News @ 9:00pm for their constant love of the game.Bayfield High Soccer
Keep an eye on the Bayfield Boy's High School Soccer...
They are in first place for Northern Lights Conference title (NLC)
For the first first time ever!!!!
It's kind of amazing considering most teams have a complete set of
back-up and swap of players. Not Bayfield. There is barely enough to cover the field. That means all players must run hard all the time and must go beyond enduring the game. They must be as fresh as when they first heard the whistle blow for nearly an hour and a half. That is soccer packed with passion from a small group of boy's who really are tough and play with heart, always giving their all! This year, that teamwork just might make a bit of Bayfield WI history.
Keep an eye on the action, we are :)Blend of Colors
What will this years fall season bring? Each year is different. This year looks good for Applefest fall colors & timing. Patches of trees here -n- there are already in process to dazzle and splash the forest with color. Looking across the horizon, you can see the forest for the trees!
It has been awhile (since 2006) that ALL the trees harmoniously changed and stayed in brilliant color ,this year may be one! So many factors decide. If your planning a Applefest adventure and hope to see some color on the journey, It looks a good year and amazing temps this fall season make it even better :)Bayfield WI Fall ColorsApplefest 2010Northern WI Fall Photographer Blog
Hawk Ridge
Along Skyline Drive in Duluth MN you’ll find many of creation wonders and this time of year really big binoculars with outdoor enthusiasts’ dressed to hang for the day. September thru November is a spectacular time to see thousands of migrating birds, riding the winds over the ridge heading south. Where’s the very best spot?” The answer they say” is blowin in the wind”. I just put myself in the hawk or eagles place and think where would I like to soar, hang out or fish today. Somehow that works. Daily statistics are found at the Hawk Ridge website http://hawkridge.org and weather is key to picking the right day :)BigTop Idol Finalists & Adult Winner!
It was a Great Night...Click pic to view video of Adult Contestant Results!
The Jr. Winner experience can be seen at our FB pg.. http://facebook.com/RiverstonesPhotosTall Ships Duluth MN
Making the rounds on the Big Lake, Tall Ships with sails as nostalgic as the water they ride on.
A look into times past and a delight to get on board! Click pic to play video!Duluth MN Tall ShipsLake Superior SailboatsDuluth MN Lake Superior Events
Bayfield WI & Madeline Island 4th of July.
It is always picture-st along Lake Superiors evening shores, with shimmering night waters and sail boats as a icon of quietness.
Where else but the quaint and casual town of Bayfield WI would one be content waiting till way after dark for fireworks..need a match?
Waiting for the ferry to cross as Madeline Islands fireworks
explode in the distance, cheers heard across the 2mile trek.
Long after Bayfield's fireworks ended Madeline Island was still glowing strong in the not so far away distance.
All was well and all was bright.
The journey home highlighted by patriotic flashes in the night sky...the lake still shimmering, the sounds still booming. It's always amazing to know, all over the good ol' USA, in small towns and big, on the highways and by-ways, people are celebrating freedom.Traveling thru, in and around Duluth MN year after year, we're always going somewhere.
Finally took time for a day to explore the beautiful ridge that defines Duluth's land to shore. Most folks up there were locals having lunch and just taking a moment to relax...
and what a place for that. Deer Hawks Eagles and a whole host of other birds taking the yearly migration trip in the fall and spring...hundreds and thousands. That with the panoramic view
of the city beside Lake Superior's royal blue
horizon..is spectacular. Stop anywhere along the 30 mile an hour winding ridge road....or take a hike on countless trails. Definitely bring a camera and picnic ...enjoy beauty to behold and the most
gorgeous view a city could offer.