tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29627261350877885292024-03-13T12:45:26.792-07:00Brookvalley Farm BlogAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-6027549877276438952016-04-04T14:39:00.000-07:002016-04-04T14:41:49.526-07:00Bee Installation #1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We're officially beekeepers!</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzQycu4T8IisGuJazX885ojm6K-lGUWGvEhJghQKo0gUCfQE_W5TGFTTu22XC8dzjxew3c-7w9xPkjXxyfbKw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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The video quality here is not really the best;<br />
for better viewing click here: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BrookvalleyFarm/videos/1120547454664912/" target="_blank">Bee Installation #1</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-12353705779896163542014-09-15T10:06:00.002-07:002014-09-15T10:47:46.201-07:00Today's Lens (09/15/14): The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show +<div class="MsoNormal">
Things have been busy here on the farm! It's harvest time, and time to get things ready for the quickly approaching cooler (I hesitate to say the word colder at this point - summer isn't even officially over yet) weather. I did manage to take a little time over the past couple of days to pull out the Canon, though, so let's take a walk, shall we?</div>
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As always, if you’d like to comment on individual photos,
please visit the <a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6059337393900123297" target="_blank"><i>Today’s Lens Photo Library</i>.</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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I didn't get many good shots of the Harvest Super Moon. I was playing with the settings on the camera to see what I could create, and let's just say it was a phenomenal flop. I managed to salvage this one, but I'll keep at it! One day, I'll figure out the best settings to capture the magnificent moon.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tk7zdJ_Tr6k/VBcXJDpbQkI/AAAAAAAAE5E/VkkplZXfdt4/s1600/IMG_3041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tk7zdJ_Tr6k/VBcXJDpbQkI/AAAAAAAAE5E/VkkplZXfdt4/s1600/IMG_3041.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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This rough legged hawk was being chased by some crows. By the time I grabbed the camera, the crows had already flown over the roof, but I managed to catch this guy while standing on the porch.</div>
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As we start down the hill, this Spicebush Swallowtail hung around for a photo or two.</div>
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They're so darn quick! It's sometimes difficult to get a clear shot at all!</div>
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Bullwinkle decided to play hide-and-seek with me using milkweed as a disguise. He's such a playful little guy, and quite the ladies man!</div>
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Despite reinforcing the gates and fencing, he still manages to sneak out and visit the ladies in a neighboring pasture. Luckily, we've been able to prevent any unplanned breedings, but I really have to keep an eye on this little Romeo. Hmmm...I'm wondering if I shouldn't consider changing his name?</div>
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While I went upstairs to feed the chickens, Harlee hung out in front of the barn and watched over her kingdom.</div>
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On our way back up the hill, Bullwinkle was napping. I have no idea how this could be comfortable!</div>
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But this on the other hand, looks adorable!</div>
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These two hang out a lot with Honey. I sometimes think Bullwinkle mistakes her for his mama. He will lay right underneath her for the shade sometimes, and she is perfectly fine with it. She's even very delicate with her steps when he's around. </div>
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Watching over her little friends, Honey is a great pasture companion.</div>
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A couple of strawberries brightly say, "Hello," as we make our way back to the house. They probably won't be around much longer, but they certainly are cheery when they are.</div>
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A view from the top of the pasture-mates and a couple of Canada geese.</div>
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And, finally, Honey waves us goodbye. A swish of the tail, and she was off.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed today’s journey. Please, join me again
next time for more <i>Today’s Lens</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thanks for viewing!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Laura<span style="color: #2a221a; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-91831654138765288562014-09-03T13:41:00.002-07:002014-09-03T13:42:40.054-07:00Today's Lens (09/03/14): Hodge Podge Kind of DayI had another wonderful visit with Nancy today, and I've no doubt all of the photos she took will be incredible! There were some not-so-frequent visitors during our visit, but I didn't have my camera with me and will gladly defer the shots from earlier in the day to her.<br />
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I was able to catch a glimpse of the osprey this afternoon, and although they're not the best shots, they're not bad considering how far away from me he was. He visited earlier too.<br />
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While I was processing those, I also found some others that I hadn't shared yet, so today's journey will include some past journeys as well as this very brief present one.<br />
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As always, if you’d like to comment on individual photos,
please visit the <i><a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6054937727220683265" target="_blank">Today’s Lens Photo Library</a></i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The hens on the hill! These girls are very busy egg layers doing an awesome job.</div>
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This is Duke. If you missed his introduction in previous posts, he is a Portuguese Water Dog who belongs to my brother and his family. He's still a puppy yet, and cute as a button. I love his one white paw! </div>
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I think this White Admiral butterfly has seen some better days...</div>
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...his wings are tattered and torn, but he's still plugging along!</div>
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A watering procession of Clouded Sulfur moths. It had been pretty dry until yesterday, and these little fellows were finding water amidst the dust in the road. They're funny to watch. Rather than head directly to a puddle, they will congregate on a damp area of ground, and siphon the water. </div>
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It's the first time all year I've seen them stop long enough for me to press the shutter button.</div>
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There were quite a few of them in one small area; some even seemed to pose.</div>
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Can I say enough about our sweet little Mia? </div>
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Or stately (peeking) Belle?</div>
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Unlike Belle, who is an old soul at heart, Mia is very playful (don't get me wrong, Belle kicks it up now and then as well) and very curious. She loves to jump and climb, and often spins right around in the air.</div>
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Too cute!</div>
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I grabbed these two small sunflowers before they faded for the year. The other larger ones are starting to seed, and I wanted some indoor "sun" to brighten up the counter.</div>
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The osprey was visiting Powell Pond when Nancy was here (I hope she was able to get some good shots), and came back later in the afternoon for a fly-over.</div>
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He was quite far away, but I managed to get a good enough shot to tell that it is in fact an osprey.</div>
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It looks like the landing gear is ready just in case he should spot something dive-worthy.</div>
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He soared in lazy circles as he headed west along the valley; eventually venturing too far away for the camera to find. He will likely head over the mountain to Merli Sarnoski Park in search of some dinner.</div>
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This has been a hodge podge sort of day, but I hope you enjoyed it nonetheless. Please, join me again
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-45757488379827187072014-09-02T11:10:00.000-07:002014-09-02T11:17:09.203-07:00Today's Lens (09/02/14)Today's lens takes us to the barn and back, then to the garage and back in search of objects, rocks, and tools that I could use for today's projects. I'm no where near done with them all, but I needed to take a break and sit in the air conditioning for a while. I can usually tolerate the heat, but his humidity is wiping me out quick! Here's a bit of the day so far.<br />
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On my first trip down the hill (walking), the geese were enjoying a morning stroll and some breakfast. Before long, they'll be flying off to warmer grounds. I can't believe it's that time already.</div>
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Is this not the face of one of the most handsome billy goats you've ever seen? Bullwinkle is growing up fast, but he's still a cutie pie.</div>
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The sign is up! Steve dug the hole and cemented the post the other night for me, and I got the frame up yesterday. This morning, I hung the sign. I went back down later to clean it up a bit (keep scrolling/reading).</div>
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On my way back up to the house, this guy nearly took my head off in his fly-over. My hands were full, but I dropped everything, and managed to get this shot of him before he took off again.</div>
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This time, I took the truck down; walking down again on a day like today would almost do me in, I think. Although, I'll probably strap on the camera and take an afternoon stroll to feed the chickens. It's good for me, right? Anyway, I cleaned this up a bit, drove some stakes to hold the lattice, and placed some plastic down under the mulch (free mulch, by the way - did you know that when the crews come through to trim the trees along the power lines, they are generally more than happy to dump the shredded waste where you can access it?) to try to keep some of the weeds away. Next up: Mums! I'm thinking rust and orange and yellow.</div>
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Before I headed back up the hill, I stopped by my mother's to steal, I mean borrow (no, I really mean steal) this five gallon crock from my mother's/sister's. We have some cabbages in the garden that make a basketball look small, and I need something larger than the one gallon crock that I'm currently using to make sauerkraut out of those babies. This one is now all scrubbed and sanitized and ready to go after the first frost sweetens the cabbage. Fresh sauerkraut all winter!!</div>
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Hmmm...not sure about this one, but I'm throwing it in anyway. I wasn't sure how big the crock was, so I grabbed a five gallon bucket from over by the barbecue pit for comparison. This is rust settling on the shovel that was taking up residence in the bucket. It was in big bubbles all over the surface of the shovel. I think this is one that I'll play around with in Lightroom some day; it could be fun!</div>
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Oh, and I mentioned that I was looking for rocks. Well, this is why. Cole stopped up yesterday when I was experimenting with the Spidey rock, and of course he wanted one. I promised him he could pick it up today when I got it finished. He said he wanted a fly too, so, being the spoiling good aunt that I am, I went rock picking and painted him up a fly or two. </div>
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I've actually managed to cool off a bit while prepping this post, so I guess it's back to the painting, and other projects of the day. I'm fixing some shutters for an art display and hope to get some more canning done; I used ten pounds of tomatoes the other day for salsa, but there are still about as many sitting on the counter, and more ripening in the garden as I write. I might try some ketchup this afternoon. I never did it before, so it should prove interesting! I also have to get the beans steamed/blanched and in the freezer before they get soft on me. Phew...sounds like I'll be busy!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-4867467942982794892014-09-01T14:32:00.002-07:002014-09-01T14:40:38.174-07:00Today's Lens (09/01/14): A New Kid in TownWhen we went to bed on the night of August 28, all was quiet in our little valley of the world, and the 29th dawned brightly. Well, maybe a bit more brightly, only we didn't know it yet. We went about starting our day as normal; I tended to the animals here on the hill, while Steve tended to the animals down at the barn, and then we were off on our merry, individual ways. What a surprise I was in for when I made my daily trek down to the barn for the mid-afternoon feeding of the chickens. We had another baby! Muffin, who we had been closely watching for signs that she was ready to kid, up and had her without me (I'm not really an integral part of the process, I mean, she's perfectly suited to perform the task without me, as she made well known, but I like to think I am) - and without warning. Her former owner had warned us that she wouldn't give us any warning, and he was definitely right. She showed none of the usual signs that a delivery was near - no hollowing at her hips when the baby moved into the birth canal, no dimples around her tail, not even an enlarged udder. Nothing. Then, bang, there's a baby all cleaned, up and running around in the goat pen. Mom and doeling were doing great! Ann and Ivy (who was actually the one who gave me a sign that something was up by running around just outside the pen door and catching my attention - I couldn't figure out why she was being so silly) stood off to the side to allow Muffin and her precious little one room to bond, frolic, and nurse. It was all so beautiful! See for yourself:<br />
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Such a cutie!</div>
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Don't know why, but I love their little feet when they're babies. It's kind of like a puppy's paws - something to grow into.</div>
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Mama and baby.</div>
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Awww...</div>
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As with all of our goats, I like to get to know them a bit, and learn their personalities before I come up with a name. Needless to say, I'm still working on it...</div>
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This little one is very active and playful - a name will come to me soon (I hope!).</div>
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"What's that you got there?"</div>
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Again, awww...</div>
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A very proud mama!</div>
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As well she should be!</div>
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Ann watches on from the adjoining pen.</div>
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And baby Ivy B peeks through to say "hello."</div>
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She's a super cutie too!</div>
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"How do I look from this angle?"</div>
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Look at that precious face!</div>
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I'm sure there will be more births here on the farm, and some may think that if you've seen one, you've seen them all. But, I never get tired of it! Life, especially new life, is such an amazing and awe inspiring thing!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-73524131306418833952014-08-22T13:49:00.002-07:002014-08-22T13:49:20.124-07:00Today's Lens (08/22/14)Today, we'll say welcome to a new friend, and visit some old ones as well.<div>
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As always, if you’d like to comment on individual photos,
please visit the <i><a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6050491181817508321" target="_blank">Today’s Lens Photo Library</a></i>. It has also come to my attention, that you can now "like" images, as well as comment.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tiffany and Cole brought Duke up to say hello. Duke is the newest member of the Powell family, and a super cutie!</div>
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Cole kept climbing the bank, and got in a bit of trouble.</div>
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But, he got over it quickly enough!</div>
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I love his one white paw! Of course, around here with all the mud and dirt, I'm pretty sure it will be brown more often than it's white.</div>
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Ah, puppy love!</div>
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The birds or squirrels or chipmunks sure did a fantastic job planting these sunflowers. They're doing great, and the bees love them now as much as the birds will when the sunflower seeds are ready.</div>
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You can see the seeds starting to take shape and grow.</div>
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Carbondale's Pioneer Days Ethnic Heritage Celebration and Antiques on the Park.</div>
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Pretty girl Molly.</div>
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Ivy B and her mama, Ann. Ivy is getting so big!</div>
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And, she's so much fun to watch in the field.</div>
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"I'm queen of the mountain," or at least this boulder.</div>
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This is a piece of what I'm assuming is the handle to something; I believe it's a pressure treated piece of wood. That, or Mother Nature has developed an emerald green tree that I don't know about. I thought it was quite interesting how the fungus is growing the same color as the interior of the wood.</div>
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The girls were out for their daily romp. Mia wouldn't stand still long enough to get a good shot of her at all today.</div>
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And, Belle wasn't much better.</div>
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We'll end with a couple of fun shots. Belle was talking to me as I took this one.</div>
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And, Mia seems to be saying "na-na na na-na."</div>
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I hope you enjoyed today’s journey. Please, join me again
next time for more <i>Today’s Lens</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thanks for viewing!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Laura<span style="color: #2a221a; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-47230054645821973852014-08-15T08:33:00.001-07:002014-08-15T08:33:27.438-07:00Griffin Pond Pet Walk & Family Festival: Sunday, August 17, 2014Join us Sunday from 11AM-5PM at McDade Park for pony rides (discounted price with every BVF purchase!), art, and much more! We'll have a vendor tent and will be introducing some new products and new creations! There will be other vendors and demonstrators joining forces to help raise funds and awareness for the Griffin Pond Animal Shelter. Here is just a taste of what's to come:<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-32582989265080363742014-08-08T14:13:00.000-07:002014-08-08T17:10:07.432-07:00Today's Lens (08/08/14)Today, we start out at Brookvalley Farm, but then travel once again to Merli-Sarnoski Park for a change of scenery before coming back to the farm. I had a nice, though brief, visit with my neighbor who works at the park (around here, neighbors can be anywhere from a few acres to a few miles away - this one is right up the road, and though I see him in passing [usually in our cars], I seldom get to chat), and then took a quiet walk along the shore before heading back on a different path just to see where it led.<br>
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This is a look at Powell Pond from the BVF homestead yesterday afternoon. </div>
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The water was so calm; the reflections were incredible!</div>
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If there are any foxes (I just spent ten minutes looking that up because I had learned in grade school that the plural of fox is fox, just as the plural of deer is deer, but it appears that I was misinformed, and the correct plural of fox is foxes--just in case you experience the same intellectual melt down that I just did) or coyotes around this year, they're not visiting BVF or the surrounding area very frequently; the rabbit population is like nothing I've seen before. This little one, and several of its brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends can be found hanging around the barn, house, fields, paths, streams, heck, they can be found everywhere!</div>
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I have heard several blue birds calling in the woods, but I very seldom see any. This one looks to be young and fuzzy yet, so with any luck there will be more around to increase my chances of seeing them.</div>
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I'm not even sure why I stopped to take this photo, other than to check my exposure settings. Sometimes I look at it and really like it, and other times I'm not sure what I was thinking.</div>
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This cute little hummingbird did a fly-by right near my left ear. It's amazing how loud their wings are when they get that close. This is a female ruby-throated hummingbird, and you'll notice, as with most female birds, she lacks the colorfulness of the males (no ruby throat for this girl).</div>
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This bee was enjoying the Eutrochium (Joe-Pye weed) flowers along with several of her friends. I believe it's a carpenter bee, but I'm not sure. If anyone knows of a good website for bee identification, please let me know. I've tried to find one, but always end up browsing through Google images until I find what I hope is the correct one.</div>
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A blooming lily.</div>
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Can you see it?</div>
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How about now? </div>
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This bull frog hung out in this position for quite some time.</div>
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Or, maybe this is better? </div>
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I was even able to walk around and get this image from the front.</div>
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This chipmunk thought it was hiding, but I knew better! And, now you do too.</div>
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A sunning turtle. Right after I snapped this, he slid into the water.</div>
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And, almost immediately, this bull frog took his place.</div>
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A view of the swampy end of the lake, and most likely the area of the lake that earned it its previous name of "Mud Pond."</div>
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There are so many interesting little things to see in this world. We just have to take the time to notice.</div>
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There were a lot of ripe blueberries around the lake. The birds will be feasting soon.</div>
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If you've never been in the woods to hear an acorn fall, I highly recommend you take a walk and listen. It is almost unimaginable how loud these little things sound when they fall.</div>
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An early fall? Gosh, I hope not!</div>
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For whatever reason, this mushroom caught my eye. Does anyone know how to tell the poisonous one from the edible ones? If so, can you teach me?</div>
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As happy as this fly seems to be at discovering blooming golden rod, I dread it. Any allergy sufferer will feel my pain when I say that this is the worst part of the end of summer and coming of fall. </div>
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This is where we'll leave Merli-Sarnoski Park and head back to the farm.</div>
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I let Mia and Belle out to roam free for a while this afternoon. Here, Mia is running back for a "check-in," anxious to collect her treat.</div>
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They looooovvvvvveeee briars! They remind me of the Brer Rabbit story, "Only please, Brer Fox, please don't throw me into the briar patch."</div>
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Sweet peas blossoms and a grasshopper.</div>
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Look at how long his antennae are!</div>
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There is just something about sunflowers that warms up a day.</div>
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Mia thinks so too! She paused to reflect on her recent visit. Much like I hope you'll do.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed today’s journey. Please, join me again
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Thanks for viewing!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Laura<span style="color: #2a221a; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-28871084599380801042014-08-05T07:05:00.000-07:002014-08-05T07:05:04.233-07:00Today's Lens (08/05/14)Today, we will take our usual walk to the barn and to visit Nana, but along the way we'll hang out with a few green herons, a great blue heron, the boys, and a couple other visitors along the way.<br />
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From a distance, I thought I noticed something moving in this tree, but wasn't sure until I zoomed in with the camera what it might be. Much to my surprise, there were two green herons hanging out.</div>
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Something overhead caught their attention, and they attentively watched it fly by.</div>
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Now, back to the pond, and hopefully a good breakfast!</div>
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This third fellow was checking things out from high up in a cherry tree along one of the fence lines.</div>
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I had to keep checking on these two; they were in no hurry to fish or fly away.</div>
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A little, "good morning," squawk fro the top one. </div>
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The one at the top of the cherry tree moved down a bit and stretched his neck to see something. I wonder what it could be?</div>
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A quick shot of the boys. They've really become fast friends and can be seen hanging out regularly in their pasture.</div>
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And, then on to what caught the attention of the green herons--a great blue heron flying by on his way to Powell Pond.</div>
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This mourning dove hung out on the pasture gate and let me get relatively close before flying off. They are such pretty, soft looking birds.</div>
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And back the herons. This is the one that was sitting higher in the tree, but now he's decided that it might be fun to try a balancing act on one of the ropes that keep the horses out of the messy end of the pond. It looks like he's got a pretty good handle on things, but then again...</div>
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...maybe not.</div>
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He tried to regain his balance for a while before deciding that it just wasn't worth it, and flew off.</div>
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This little bunny peeked his head up from his grassy breakfast just long enough to snap his picture.</div>
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The great blue heron is patiently waiting and scoping things out for his breakfast.</div>
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Rocky posed one more time.</div>
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And the heron gave up his island perch for greener grass on the mainland.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed today’s journey. Please, join me again
next time for more <i>Today’s Lens</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thanks for viewing!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Laura<span style="color: #2a221a; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-68348555993193111402014-08-04T17:16:00.002-07:002014-08-04T18:44:22.006-07:00Layered Fried Green Tomato ParmesanNone of our tomatoes have turned red yet, but that doesn't mean that they're not ready! My husband and I experimented last year and instead of fried eggplant (I'm not really a fan), we made a layered Parmesan using fried green tomatoes. The result? Success! In fact, it was so successful that he didn't even want to plant eggplant this year. I can't really tell you my exact recipe because I don't have one, but below are the basics and you can adjust to suit your tastes. Enjoy!<br />
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Start with clean tomatoes, then slice them about 1/4" thick (or to your preference). For the 9"x7"x2.5" casserole dish that I'll be using, I used 5 tomatoes and had some left over to eat plain (not in the Parmesan).</div>
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You'll need three separate dishes for the breading process: one for water, one for an egg/milk wash, and one for the breading mixture. I use a combination of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, corn meal, and Panko breadcrumbs. I have no specific amounts that I use; I just mix it until it looks good. </div>
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Start breading! Each tomato slice will got through the same process:</div>
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1. Dip in water</div>
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2. Dredge in breadcrumb mixture coating both sides</div>
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3. Dip in egg/milk mixture coating both sides</div>
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4. Dredge in breadcrumbs again, pressing the mixture firmly<br />
onto the tomato</div>
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5. Set aside on layers of paper towels until ready to fry</div>
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All breaded and ready to hit the hot oil. I use olive oil, but you can use whatever you prefer. Heat the oil until a drop of water pops when splashed into the pan.</div>
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Carefully drop the breaded tomato slices into the hot oil leaving them enough room to float around a bit.</div>
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When you see the edges start to turn golden brown, carefully flip them over until desired crispiness is achieved. Remove from oil and allow to cool/drain on layers of paper towels.</div>
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If you just want to enjoy plain old fried green tomatoes, you can quit at this step. If you want the layered Parmesan, continue on.</div>
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After the tomatoes have cooled, place them on top of a layer of pasta sauce. Arranging them is kind of like a puzzle, but you don't have to be perfect. Get the best coverage you can, and layer on.</div>
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Add another layer of sauce, and whatever cheese blend you prefer. I use mozzarella and freshly ground Parmesan. I also add a bit of Italian dressing mix for seasoning (we have our own house blend of seasonings that are salt free, but use whatever your favorite is--just be aware of the salt content and don't overuse some of the store-bought blends).</div>
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Continue layering until the casserole dish is full; I have about four layers here. Bake in a 350 degree over for about a half hour, or until the cheese is melted and golden, and the sauce can be seen bubbling up on the sides. Allow it to cool on the counter for about 15 minutes before cutting into it, and then serve it up and enjoy! Mine is in the oven right now, so I'll have to come back and post a final image after dinner.</div>
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There are several variations you could take with this, so have fun. Experiment. Play around. And, let me know if you come up with anything good! Happy eating!!</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-79630090559435752342014-07-30T12:09:00.001-07:002014-07-30T12:58:06.760-07:00Today's Lens (07/30/14)We'll begin today's adventure with some images of Belle and Mia enjoying an afternoon frolic in the woods, and then travel to the barn and back. Come on along, and don't forget your raisins for the goats; they love raisins for treats!<br />
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As always, if you’d like to comment on individual photos,
please visit the <i><a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6041926300961542865" target="_blank">Today’s Lens Photo Library</a></i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Mia is an adventuresome soul! She got all four feet on this log before it fell over. She quickly shook it off and moved on to the next adventure.</div>
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Making fun of the chickens!</div>
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"Hi, I'm Mia. Want to play?"</div>
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Belle took the much more conservative approach.</div>
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"Woo Hoo! Log pile!!"</div>
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She is so surefooted and agile. She had a lot of fun on this stack of wood.</div>
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And, a lot of fun just jumping out...</div>
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...and back into their pen.<br />
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"So much good food out here, huh, Mia?"</div>
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Belle loves little green apples. Fortunately, there aren't many on the ground yet so I don't have to worry that she's getting too many. I'll have to get to them before her in the fall though!</div>
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My mother's echinacea (cone flower) is growing great this year; tall and proud.</div>
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And the bees love it.</div>
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Which is good, because I love taking pictures of the bees!<br />
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Our little chicks are getting their wing feathers already. Boy, do these little guys eat a lot!</div>
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We'll end with the community Rosinweed flower. Two bees and a fly were visiting when we--by we, I mean my trusty companion Harlee and I, though sometimes she scares more pictures away than I get--passed by.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed today’s journey. Please, join me again
next time for more <i>Today’s Lens</i>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thanks for viewing!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Laura<span style="color: #2a221a; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 11.5pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-2821002255042419922014-07-28T14:01:00.001-07:002014-07-28T14:08:23.675-07:00Today's Lens (07/28/14)Once again, I have let images build up on my camera. But, good news! I went through them today! Our journey today will take us through the dust and the rain, the clouds and the sunshine. Join me, won't you?<br />
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As always, if you'd like to comment on individual photos, please visit the <i><a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6041214045959716865" target="_blank">Today's Lens (07/28/14) Photo Library</a>.</i><br />
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The swat team. The ponies are lined up using each other as fly swatters to keep the flies off of their faces.</div>
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This king fisher has been hanging around the bridge with a buddy, but I was only able to find this one with the camera.</div>
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This black-winged damselfly was really neat looking with the sun shining on its iridescent body.</div>
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The butternuts are growing good this year.</div>
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And, so is baby Ivy B! This little goat is so much fun to watch.</div>
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And she's growing like a weed. This is Ivy with her mama, Ann.</div>
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And here she is with her Aunt Muffin. We're patiently waiting for Muffin to have her kids too - soon we hope!</div>
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Ivy and Shadow. Not long after I snapped this picture, Ivy bounced up to Shadow inviting him to play, but he was not interested. He gave a quick snarl and dashed away.</div>
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This is our adorable little Bullwinkle (Wink). I can't stand how cute he is!!!</div>
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Just look at that face! </div>
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The rush is on! No, not for gold, but for dinner. Molly takes the lead...</div>
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Followed closely by April...</div>
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Randy, Riley, and Bandit brings up the rear.</div>
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A quick peek at Honey before she comes in for dinner.</div>
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And then we'll hang out and wait for them all to finish dinner. Harlee and Shadow are barn buddies.</div>
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Not really sure why this caught my eye, but it did, so I'm hoping it catches your's as well.</div>
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The clouds took on that heavy feel of a storm.</div>
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And they didn't disappoint. Caught this rain drop coming in for a landing on one of the walkway stones.</div>
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The storms just kept coming; this is round number three, or four, or five--I lost count.</div>
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But we'll end with a little piece of sunshine. Every time I've tried to plant sunflowers in the past, something ate them before they could bloom.</div>
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This time, I didn't plant them (most likely the birds did), and they're doing great! Go figure.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed our journey on this rainy Monday. Please, join me again next time for more <i>Today's Lens.</i></div>
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Thanks for viewing!</div>
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Laura</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-30673979137242842752014-07-24T16:31:00.002-07:002014-07-24T18:26:05.258-07:00All Natural Lip BalmAlthough it took me a while to get the recipe exact, Brookvalley Farm's all natural lip balm is not a complicated product to make. For anyone who might be interested in the process, I've detailed it below. Of course, I didn't include my recipe (I can't give it all away), but if you are interested in trying it for yourself, conducting a quick web search will yield you a lot of information and places to get started. I'd be more than happy to help you out as well, just drop me an email: laura@brookvalleyfarmpa.com.<br />
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Here we go...</div>
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The equipment: A scale that measures in pounds and ounces (very important that you can measure ounces precisely), lip balm tubes and caps (this recipe will yield 10-12 tubes), a spoon for measuring out the olive oil (at room temperature it's solid), a small measuring cup for flavoring oil, a Pyrex measuring cup for melting and blending (this needs to be heat resistant because it will also act as the top of a double boiler), something to stir the mixture with (I like to use one of my glass coffee stirrers), and a small pot.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fGSDmLXhP-Q/U9GUnROJquI/AAAAAAAAEEE/KRcZTrWNj_I/s1600/IMG_0988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fGSDmLXhP-Q/U9GUnROJquI/AAAAAAAAEEE/KRcZTrWNj_I/s1600/IMG_0988.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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The ingredients: Olive oil, beeswax, castor oil, flavor oil.</div>
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Mix all but the flavor oil in the Pyrex measuring cup and melt double boiler style over low heat, stirring constantly. </div>
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The coconut oil will melt first, but keep stirring until the beeswax is melted and well combined.</div>
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Remove the oil/beeswax mixture from the heat, and stir a few more minutes to cool it down a bit.</div>
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Add the flavoring oil if using, and mix well to combine.</div>
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Now for the tricky part - pouring it into those little tubes. I crafted a quick jig using a scrap piece of wood. This recipe makes 10-12 tubes (usually 11), so I always have at least that many ready to go. The mixture sets up fairly quickly, so you don't want to waste much time during this step. Of course, if it does get too thick too quickly, you can always return it to the water and re-melt it.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--rVk9S6T0wo/U9GUuvD0VPI/AAAAAAAAEFE/ycoQe-lmDEs/s1600/IMG_1029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--rVk9S6T0wo/U9GUuvD0VPI/AAAAAAAAEFE/ycoQe-lmDEs/s1600/IMG_1029.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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After the tubes are all filled, cap them, and put them in the refrigerator to firmly set.</div>
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Add labels and shrink wrap to protect your product, and voila! Your own, homemade, all natural lip balm!</div>
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Enjoy! Or, if you're not up to taking on the task yourself, stop over at the<a href="http://brookvalleyfarmpa.com/bvf_shop_our_store.html" target="_blank"> Brookvalley Farm Store </a>and let us do it for you.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-34080261124083412732014-07-16T11:59:00.002-07:002014-07-16T12:00:01.619-07:00Today's Lens (07/16/14)Sometimes it feels like months go by, when in reality it's only been a few days. There's not much content in today's <i>Today's Lens</i>, but some of these have been on my camera for a while so I figured it was time to upload them and share. There's a bit of a lyrical theme today. Sing along with me.<br />
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As always, if you'd like to comment on individual photos, please visit <i><a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6036729638733440353" target="_blank">Today's Lens (07/16/14) Photo Library</a>.</i><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWUCU06DAes/U8bFculUsYI/AAAAAAAAEBU/Gx0NTpr2Xg4/s1600/IMG_0781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SWUCU06DAes/U8bFculUsYI/AAAAAAAAEBU/Gx0NTpr2Xg4/s1600/IMG_0781.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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"And we all shine on, Like the moon and the stars and the sun..." Late night after grading and the moon in the fog in the trees looked so good that I went back inside, grabbed my camera, and headed back out. </div>
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(07/09/14 - 11:33 PM)</div>
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Saturday's Super Moon had me singing CCR. "There's a bad moon on the rise..." </div>
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(07/12/14 - 08:40 PM)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IBJb2L_uq8g/U8bFgX2vrPI/AAAAAAAAEB0/xrjQT_LCoxk/s1600/IMG_0810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IBJb2L_uq8g/U8bFgX2vrPI/AAAAAAAAEB0/xrjQT_LCoxk/s1600/IMG_0810.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Still singing: "I see a bad moon arisin', I see trouble on the way..."</div>
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(07/12/14 - 8:43 PM)</div>
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Our little baby Ivy B (named by my little cousins (Ruby and Zinnia: <i>Ivy</i>) and my nephew (Cole: <i>Butterfly</i>) is doing really well. She's been out playing in the pasture, taking in the scenery, and telling everyone, </div>
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"I'm gonna soak up the sun</div>
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Before it goes out on me..."</div>
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(07/12/14 - 8:30 AM)</div>
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"Come on Mom! </div>
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I want to be the one to walk in the sun</div>
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Oh, girls they want to have fun..."</div>
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(07/15/14) - 1:13 PM)</div>
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Neche enjoying the "Green, green grass of home."</div>
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(07/15/14 - 4:07 PM)</div>
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This isn't actually a Morning Glory, but it's in the family. Come on, sing it with me:</div>
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"Glory days, well they'll pass you by</div>
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Glory days; in the wink of a young girl's eye.."</div>
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(07/16/14 - 7:26 AM)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yaYYNwjV_us/U8bFiIDyhnI/AAAAAAAAECE/Z31L9PhFs6U/s1600/IMG_0885.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yaYYNwjV_us/U8bFiIDyhnI/AAAAAAAAECE/Z31L9PhFs6U/s1600/IMG_0885.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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"Good morning Moon, love, how you doin'?"</div>
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If you haven't heard it, check it out here; it's kind of cute: <i><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ab2_7WQzulA" target="_blank">Good Morning Moon</a></i></div>
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(07/16/14 - 8:10 AM)</div>
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I hope you enjoyed our journey. Please, join me again next time for more <i>Today's Lens.</i><br />
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Thanks for viewing!<br />
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Laura<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-62344293370798219172014-07-09T17:18:00.003-07:002014-07-09T17:27:55.442-07:00Today's Lens (07/09/14)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As usual, things have been pretty busy on the farm lately--and I'm not complaining! This past Saturday, we had the honor of joining a bride and groom at the Montdale Country Club for a ride around the grounds and photos. What a great venue for summertime wedding photos, or the whole wedding and reception too! That's where we'll begin <i>Today's Lens</i>, but follow along and see where else we go too. As always, if you'd like to comment on individual photos, please visit <i><a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6034219757276838225?authkey=CO_Oz6qrjoDmVw" target="_blank">Today's Lens (07/09/14) Photo Library</a>.</i></div>
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April and Molly (Molly in foreground) were the apple of every camera's eye!</div>
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I could never say enough about how gorgeous these two animals are! </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-63OiT68Iy-I/U73XIyKBLYI/AAAAAAAAD9E/SHHkx6yKZ3s/s1600/IMG_0656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-63OiT68Iy-I/U73XIyKBLYI/AAAAAAAAD9E/SHHkx6yKZ3s/s1600/IMG_0656.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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"Hi, Mom!"</div>
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Such a pretty setting--the gazebo, the lake, the lush green grass...ahhh.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--rv70YNt-7c/U73XSHM6gcI/AAAAAAAAD9s/jphZcz7Xh28/s1600/IMG_0687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--rv70YNt-7c/U73XSHM6gcI/AAAAAAAAD9s/jphZcz7Xh28/s1600/IMG_0687.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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And let's not forget our driver! He has done such a great job training all of our horses.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iZ3PJnkX9Ns/U73XRXj61SI/AAAAAAAAD9g/9nnE-VnLQU4/s1600/IMG_0705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iZ3PJnkX9Ns/U73XRXj61SI/AAAAAAAAD9g/9nnE-VnLQU4/s1600/IMG_0705.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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"Mom, are we almost done?" </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O_KGGLZRpOM/U73XRvUq5jI/AAAAAAAAD9k/UXNcEldlWdI/s1600/IMG_0717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O_KGGLZRpOM/U73XRvUq5jI/AAAAAAAAD9k/UXNcEldlWdI/s1600/IMG_0717.jpg" height="400" width="268" /></a></div>
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"Really...are we done?"</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OpfqRi6R6lc/U73XUcJiCzI/AAAAAAAAD94/WQdDGPuykHU/s1600/IMG_0719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OpfqRi6R6lc/U73XUcJiCzI/AAAAAAAAD94/WQdDGPuykHU/s1600/IMG_0719.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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One last shot of our pretties!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UenZvE9yR0M/U73XUwdMzgI/AAAAAAAAD-A/WtJxH4X9-Zg/s1600/IMG_0721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UenZvE9yR0M/U73XUwdMzgI/AAAAAAAAD-A/WtJxH4X9-Zg/s1600/IMG_0721.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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And on to some sparkler fun! </div>
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This cloud didn't come out as nicely as I'd hoped, but it's still kind of neat (at least I think so).</div>
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Dinner time! Tomatoes; fresh mozzarella; garlic, onion, and basil pesto; and a honey balsamic reduction. Ummmm.</div>
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What's better on a hot summer day than a glass of fresh squeezed lemonade with honey and fresh mint?</div>
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Nothing, I say, absolutely nothing!</div>
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Looks like there's going to be a decent apple crop again this year. Can anyone say applesauce? Hopefully, we can find a cider press this year too.</div>
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Now, do these two not define cuteness? That's our Anabelle Rose (Belle) on the left and Amelia Fawn (Mia) on the right. Our darling little dairy goats!</div>
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And we'll end today's journey with a shot of Brookvalley's Baby (BB), and most of Ginger in the background. She is a little spit fire, and such a pretty girl. We don't get to use her as much as we'd like so she's definitely a little green. If anyone knows of any kids looking to work on training, let us know. I'm a little too big for her, but she'd make a great pony for someone her size. Watching her move in the pasture, I bet she'd make a great little jumper or barrel racer.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed our journey! Please, join me again next time for more "Today's Lens."</div>
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Thanks for viewing!</div>
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Laura</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-762005735263770992014-07-02T12:47:00.002-07:002014-07-02T12:47:37.295-07:00Today's Lens (07/02/14)Not much time to write today, but I had some photos that I wanted to share. <a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6031552385606912673" target="_blank">Click here to view/comment on them individually</a>, or scroll through below:<br />
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Thanks for viewing! Join me again next time for more of "Today's Lens." </div>
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<a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6031552385606912673" target="_blank">Today's Lens (07/02/14) Photo Library</a></div>
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LauraAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-46897665633690914422014-06-26T07:37:00.003-07:002014-06-26T07:37:43.358-07:00Today's Lens (06/26/14)Today, we'll take our usual trip down to the barn, but then we'll also take a quick swing by Merli Sarnoski Park to check out the scene. Thanks for joining me (<a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6029245799219713217?authkey=CMqhgd7G25DTfg" target="_blank">click here to view images individually and post comments</a>).<br />
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It almost looks as though someone posed these three! Not only are they in order by size, but they're also perfectly spaced and staggered. I couldn't have gotten them to do this if I tried!<br />
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Island hopping. This great blue heron decided that he wasn't happy on one island at Powell Pond, and took a quick flight over to the second one. I didn't have a clear view of the landing, but rest assured, he stopped by for a bit before taking off again for the pond behind the barn.</div>
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I'm not sure if this little fatty reminded me of Punxsutawney Phil, the real one, or Phil the spokes'chuck for the PA Lottery. Of course, even though it's not a gopher, I also had the phrase "...greasy, grimy, gopher guts" running through my head too - thanks Bill Murray <i>(Caddyshack)</i>. </div>
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It caught sight of the dog approaching, and ducked down for cover, but I still saw it peeking!</div>
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And, here we have Curious and Curiouser, also known as Muffin (foreground) and Rocky (background). While Ann is back in the barn tending to her new baby (a week old yesterday), these two are out roaming around and seeing what trouble they can get into.</div>
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It really does look like he's contemplating trouble, doesn't it?</div>
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Next stop: The boat launch at Merli Sarnoski Park. I never fail to catch a glimpse of a heron in the boggy end of the lake. I stuck around for a while to see if this guy would go fishing, but he never really moved from this place. In fact, I walked all the way down to the handicap dock, and he was still pretty much in the same position. </div>
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I had to run to catch up to this little fellow. Even though they say turtles are slow, this one was on a mission to get across the road quick! I waited until he was just on the edge and out of harms way should a car come along before I got close enough for it to stop moving. I'm guessing, from the very brief research that I've done to identify this guy, that by the length of his claws, this is a male Eastern Painted Turtle. One other way to identify gender was to look at the length of the tail, but that's not clearly visible in any of the shots I got.</div>
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This Red-eyed Vireo flitted around in the brush near the handicap fishing dock. He was quite a playful little fellow, and kept stopping to pose for me. You can see his red eyes a little more clearly in the next shot.</div>
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He was quite a pretty little fellow, but the red eyes are kind of scary looking when the light hits them just right.</div>
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I saw the orange of this little guy, and instantly thought, oooh, Baltimore Oriole. Wrong. After I got home and pulled the photo up on the computer, I could clearly see that it wasn't. This is an American Redstart. I'm always amazed at the different types of birds I see at the Park vs. what I see at home, which is only "over the river and through the woods" away - as the crow flies, it's only about 0.6 mile to the main parking lot, but driving it's 1.1 miles.</div>
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Peek-A-Boo. This chipmunk thought it might be fun to play peek-a-boo for while. Naturally, I indulged</div>
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We'll end with the uglier side of man. Throughout the Park, there are numerous, and I mean you don't have to walk far to find one, garbage cans and recycle bins. Why? Why, why, why do people have to be so lazy and inconsiderate? These items were just out of reach, and at the bottom of a not so friendly looking drop-off, and I couldn't do my part to help clean it up (at least not without fear of falling in, and I didn't think the Canon would take too kindly to that. Although I did fall in the fountain at Nay Aug in the middle of the winter a few years ago and tested the Canon's swimming ability - it survived, and I'm still using the same camera today - but that's another story).<br />
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This one, I did pick up and carry through the woods with me until I got to the next nearest can - a whopping 300' or so - boy was I exhausted from carrying a plastic water bottle (which according to the International Bottled Water Association weighs approximately 12.7 grams - less than 1/10 of a pound) that far. No wonder the previous owner just dropped it along the side of the lake where it can do far more harm than good. I really don't understand people! </div>
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Aside from the litter bugs and their sloppy laziness, I hope you enjoyed today's journey. As always, if you would like to comment on individual photos, please use this link: <a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6029245799219713217?authkey=CMqhgd7G25DTfg" target="_blank">Today's Lens (06/26/14) Photo Library</a>.</div>
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Join me again next time for more "Today's Lens."</div>
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Thanks for joining me!</div>
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Laura</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-81846762547825214862014-06-23T11:18:00.001-07:002014-06-24T04:53:47.044-07:00Today's Lens (06/23/14) - An Iconic Celebration: Murti-Pratishtha MahotasvOn Saturday, June 21, 2014 Brookvalley Farm was once again honored to be a part of a celebration at Shree Swaminarayan Mandir on Prescott Avenue in Scranton: Murti-Pratishtha Mahotasv. We were a part of the celebratory parade that took place that evening. Below are a few photos of the event, and a video.<br />
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Aside from being a wonderfully fun event, this is a true testament to our horses, and to my husband who has trained and worked with them. The music is loud, the people are energetic, and the dancing continues for blocks. The horses, April and Molly, were incredibly calm and took it all in stride.<br />
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If you would like to comment on individual photos, please use this link: <a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6028185404970569633" target="_blank">Today's Lens (06/23/14) Photo Library</a>.<br />
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Enjoy the celebration with us!<br />
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Everyone gathers, as we wait for our honored guests to arrive.</div>
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He's here! Let the parade begin.</div>
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The women are absolutely gorgeous in all of their vibrant colors.</div>
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And we're on our way. The men lead the way, and sing, dance, clap, and celebrate in the street. In the video at the end of this post, you can see it live. At one point, they circle around the horses and carriage.</div>
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The dancing, singing, and celebration continues for blocks as we make our way to the Temple.</div>
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Such beautiful work!</div>
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Fun along the way!</div>
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This is a stressful day for the horses, but they handled it like pros!!</div>
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So pretty.</div>
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I always get a kick out of the young girls with their cell phones as they celebrate. For some reason, it seems like such a contradiction. But they were not alone, the men had theirs as well.</div>
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Beautiful.</div>
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I tried to capture the full parade, but it was impossible. What a great celebration, attended by many!</div>
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I was so proud of our girls, and my husband - very professional and very well trained! Well, my husband was very professional, the horses were well trained - still working on my husband. LOL</div>
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The view from the wall of William Prescott School. You can see the Temple tower (brick) in the distance to the right of the red house..</div>
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Did I mention the vibrant colors?</div>
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This is a very iconic event for the Hindu culture - Murti-Pratishtha Mahotasv</div>
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So patient!</div>
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A job well done!!</div>
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<a href="http://youtu.be/kwO41XoPnuA" target="_blank">Click here to see the video</a>.</div>
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I hope you enjoyed our journey and the celebration! If you would like to comment on individual photos, please use this link: <a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6028185404970569633" target="_blank">Today's Lens (06/23/14) Photo Library</a>.</div>
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Join me again next time for more "Today's Lens."</div>
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Thanks for viewing!</div>
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Laura</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-27750408858183884882014-06-19T12:17:00.002-07:002014-06-20T10:41:16.988-07:00Today's Lens (06/19/14)I must say, I've been a bit lazy these last couple of days (with the exception of yesterday which you can read about in my blog post, <i>Just Kidding</i>) and haven't made the trip up to the third floor to sit down at the computer and upload/share any photos. Well, now it's time to get caught up. We'll begin with a view from the bottom, and work our way up, so to speak.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mu1KNn9bGvk/U6Mro5Q-S7I/AAAAAAAADmk/aDcKRaeuITw/s1600/IMG_9728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mu1KNn9bGvk/U6Mro5Q-S7I/AAAAAAAADmk/aDcKRaeuITw/s1600/IMG_9728.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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A view from the bottom of the valley up at <i>Brookvalley Farm's Bank Buster</i> on the hill. (06/17/14)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xx-0sLSCwLQ/U6Mqzj_XJjI/AAAAAAAADkM/HdzLTkWzmEI/s1600/IMG_9488.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xx-0sLSCwLQ/U6Mqzj_XJjI/AAAAAAAADkM/HdzLTkWzmEI/s1600/IMG_9488.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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A man, his tractor, and his dog. What more is there? (06/13/14)</div>
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From the top looking down, I caught a glimpse of this sweet little family. (06/13/14)</div>
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It had just rained, and the vegetation was exceptionally tasty - or so I assume. (06/13/14)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FBmg3KO24xM/U6Mq3KkuuqI/AAAAAAAADkc/f0DHcZGWynw/s1600/IMG_9496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FBmg3KO24xM/U6Mq3KkuuqI/AAAAAAAADkc/f0DHcZGWynw/s1600/IMG_9496.jpg" height="307" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm not good at identifying moths, but this one is in the Geometridae family. I can't seem to get much closer than that. A Mocha and Wave (Sterrhinae) perhaps? (06/16/14)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SHwp6lonMzc/U6Mq7wDhc_I/AAAAAAAADks/Pds9HVTyrs4/s1600/IMG_9522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SHwp6lonMzc/U6Mq7wDhc_I/AAAAAAAADks/Pds9HVTyrs4/s1600/IMG_9522.jpg" height="122" width="320" /></a></div>
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Flight training! No, I'm not joking. The two resident Canada goose families have joined forces for what we like to call "flight training." They waddle down the road, and then race back as quickly as they can to get the goslings moving their wings and lifting off the ground a bit. It's quite comical really, and we look forward to it every year. What we don't look forward to is all the mess, and the large amount of grass they consume from the pastures. (06/16/14)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1uWXllQt4Kw/U6MrAoxSR8I/AAAAAAAADk0/4N_amgerToU/s1600/IMG_9539.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1uWXllQt4Kw/U6MrAoxSR8I/AAAAAAAADk0/4N_amgerToU/s1600/IMG_9539.jpg" height="274" width="320" /></a></div>
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And, once the training is done, it's time for a leisurely swim in Powell Pond. This is the smaller of the two families; only three goslings in this one. (06/16/14)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGTKIDtWKgs/U6Mrq0N1xvI/AAAAAAAADmw/eZ5lnR5DSmo/s1600/IMG_9762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGTKIDtWKgs/U6Mrq0N1xvI/AAAAAAAADmw/eZ5lnR5DSmo/s1600/IMG_9762.jpg" height="103" width="320" /></a></div>
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More lazing in the sun the next day. (06/17/14)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3r5wFSEtck/U6Mrr_FppSI/AAAAAAAADm8/o5pZ_9L38_w/s1600/IMG_9770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3r5wFSEtck/U6Mrr_FppSI/AAAAAAAADm8/o5pZ_9L38_w/s1600/IMG_9770.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a></div>
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And, yes, there are fish in there! Very small ones, and very many, but fish nonetheless. It may be time to get my nephew out fishing more frequently! (06/17/14)</div>
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What would a photo blog post be without a shot of our cutest little members? This is Mia. Isn't she just adorable? (06/16/14)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xzWjalckZa4/U6MrDVU3UUI/AAAAAAAADlE/GzWCq_RxFw4/s1600/IMG_9557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xzWjalckZa4/U6MrDVU3UUI/AAAAAAAADlE/GzWCq_RxFw4/s1600/IMG_9557.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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And, of course the matronly Belle. When Mia first arrived, Belle wasn't too sure about her, but they became fast friends, and Belle really watches out for Mia; it's so precious. (06/16/14)</div>
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If you saw my <i>Today's Lens</i> post from 06/05/14, you saw what I will swear was this same blue bird - mocking me again, just like he did then. The little smart aleck! (06/17/14)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RKBkjmjK_c4/U6MrST2StHI/AAAAAAAADlk/UWQQca_WI5E/s1600/IMG_9640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RKBkjmjK_c4/U6MrST2StHI/AAAAAAAADlk/UWQQca_WI5E/s1600/IMG_9640.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Another moth - and I didn't even try to identify this one. If someone knows, please post in the comments, so I can update the image. Thanks! (06/17/14)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-59BplEKw9Dg/U6MrVVZDbrI/AAAAAAAADl0/i1snHcn0QeI/s1600/IMG_9653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-59BplEKw9Dg/U6MrVVZDbrI/AAAAAAAADl0/i1snHcn0QeI/s1600/IMG_9653.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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Nature's flower arrangement. This is a little meadow down near my grandmother's house. It looks so pretty when all of the grasses are gently blowing in the breeze and the flowers are in bloom. (06/17/14)</div>
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A handsome Mallard family swam peacefully in the creek. (06/17/14)</div>
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That is, until Harlee jumped in. She even managed to stick her tongue out for the camera - smarty pants! (06/17/14)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H9b34AJGAgc/U6MrbC4AfnI/AAAAAAAADl8/JpNf6YqSdio/s1600/IMG_9693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H9b34AJGAgc/U6MrbC4AfnI/AAAAAAAADl8/JpNf6YqSdio/s1600/IMG_9693.jpg" height="152" width="320" /></a></div>
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I know I've identified this guy in the past, but time is short right now. I'll have to get back to you all on this one. (06/17/14)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U6vT-rD21Zg/U6MrdEovZMI/AAAAAAAADmU/e9DND-W_6YA/s1600/IMG_9704.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U6vT-rD21Zg/U6MrdEovZMI/AAAAAAAADmU/e9DND-W_6YA/s1600/IMG_9704.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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My mother's peonies are in full bloom; they were always one of her favorites. I picked a few and took them over to Nana to enjoy on her coffee table. I do it every year. (06/17/14)</div>
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(06/17/14)</div>
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An iris plant has managed to find itself at the edge of the pasture. I'm not sure how it got there, but it's nice to see the burst of purple and yellow amid all of the surrounding green. (06/17/14)</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OYdm8_d_6GA/U6Mq6rVh7vI/AAAAAAAADkk/7ePryQ0exts/s1600/IMG_9499.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OYdm8_d_6GA/U6Mq6rVh7vI/AAAAAAAADkk/7ePryQ0exts/s1600/IMG_9499.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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A silhouette of a tiny, fascinating creature. (06/16/14)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FVemd_8hAks/U6Mrti7JnxI/AAAAAAAADnE/2FTCq48v-HE/s1600/IMG_9780.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FVemd_8hAks/U6Mrti7JnxI/AAAAAAAADnE/2FTCq48v-HE/s1600/IMG_9780.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
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A little more color to the same tiny, fascinating creature. (06/17/14)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYxxzSoM4zM/U6Mrwh4zHLI/AAAAAAAADnU/AMqX-uwTDpA/s1600/IMG_9822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pYxxzSoM4zM/U6Mrwh4zHLI/AAAAAAAADnU/AMqX-uwTDpA/s1600/IMG_9822.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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(06/17/14)</div>
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Harlee takes a break as I watch for the humming birds. She was smarter than I was; she sat in the shade, and I sat in the sun. What's that they say about man being the more intelligent animal? (06/17/14)</div>
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Foxglove. (06/18/14)</div>
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Tiger Swallowtail on Crown Vetch. (06/18/14)</div>
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(06/18/14)</div>
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The calm before the storm, and a view of our little piece of paradise from the porch looking up the valley. (06/17/14)</div>
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I think the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band said it best: "Crickets are singin' and lightning bugs are floatin' on the breeze. Baby get ready." After the storms on Monday night, the lightning bugs came out in full force! (06/16/14)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yqZUHoPkPD0/U6MrFnafVjI/AAAAAAAADlQ/L5bSu23TaT0/s1600/IMG_9602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yqZUHoPkPD0/U6MrFnafVjI/AAAAAAAADlQ/L5bSu23TaT0/s1600/IMG_9602.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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And the fog rolled in. I was hoping to catch some lightning shots, but I was too late. The sky still offered some pretty neat viewing though! (06/16/14)</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GQw5cfCN998/U6MrGU42EsI/AAAAAAAADlc/7ge4VO3fJPk/s1600/IMG_9605.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GQw5cfCN998/U6MrGU42EsI/AAAAAAAADlc/7ge4VO3fJPk/s1600/IMG_9605.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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(06/16/14)</div>
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I hope you enjoyed our journey up and down the valley. If you would like to comment on individual photos, use this link: <a href="https://plus.google.com/photos/109782640835786280561/albums/6027065615532257025" target="_blank">Today's Lens (06/19/14) Photo Library</a>. </div>
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Join me again next time for more to "Today's Lens."</div>
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Thanks for viewing!</div>
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Laura</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-54427960701054040272014-06-19T11:11:00.001-07:002014-06-23T16:06:02.611-07:00Today's Lens (06/19/14) - Just KiddingWow! Time flies when your having fun - and kids. No, not me, silly. Yesterday afternoon at approximately 2:27:10 PM ( I was too excited to note the exact time) our Boer goat, Ann, had a kid; a doeling to be exact. Of course, the artist side of me wouldn't allow the camera to go idle while this was taking place (it did note the exact time). Here are some progressive shots of the birth.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MCSK6e2NGdw/U6MmGqFILqI/AAAAAAAADj4/Fw_MJwWLkig/s1600/IMG_9857.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MCSK6e2NGdw/U6MmGqFILqI/AAAAAAAADj4/Fw_MJwWLkig/s1600/IMG_9857.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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It's almost time. Ann was very uncomfortable at this point; up and down, up and down, standing, pacing. She has shown the first signs that kidding is near. Now we wait. I wished there was something I could do to help her out, but she's done this before and knew what was best (1:25:44 PM).</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VV72CyyKigI/U6Mjzd_Dq4I/AAAAAAAADjA/Q6QYfBld7P8/s1600/IMG_9859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VV72CyyKigI/U6Mjzd_Dq4I/AAAAAAAADjA/Q6QYfBld7P8/s1600/IMG_9859.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">I see feet and a nose (2:24:49 PM)!</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lDqJxDM0Y4/U6MjzXqi6vI/AAAAAAAADi8/32XxkCbODJU/s1600/IMG_9861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lDqJxDM0Y4/U6MjzXqi6vI/AAAAAAAADi8/32XxkCbODJU/s1600/IMG_9861.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Baby on the way! (2:26:08 PM)</div>
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Wriggling its way out, and looks healthy (2:27:08 PM).</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JgUj6t1zpzs/U6Mj2FRPLOI/AAAAAAAADjU/mECwiXsEO1w/s1600/IMG_9868.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JgUj6t1zpzs/U6Mj2FRPLOI/AAAAAAAADjU/mECwiXsEO1w/s1600/IMG_9868.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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Bleeting and starting to look for Mama (2:28:47 PM)</div>
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Let the clean-up begin (2:33:01 PM) </div>
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I stuck around for a while after the hard part was done to make sure the doeling nursed, and that Ann was in good shape, but then I had to leave for a doctor's appointment (nothing serious, just follow-up with the endocrinologist for my thyroid issues - that's a whole other blog, or maybe it should be). I left Mama and baby in the very capable hands of my brother and 4-year-old nephew who were the first ones to meet the new kid on the block!</div>
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Ah, finally home from the doctor's and Mama and baby are doing great! Still a little wobbly, but cute as a button and taking her first steps in this crazy little thing called life (5:09:51 PM).</div>
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"This being born stuff is tiring business! It's time for a nap" (5:18:33 PM).</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-75054460210730071282014-06-05T10:08:00.000-07:002014-06-05T11:35:22.638-07:00Today's Lens (06/05/14)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Today's Lens takes us on a walk from our farm house to my mother's, well technically my sister's now, but I think it will take the rest of my lifetime to get adjusted to calling it anything other than Mom's (sorry April). From there, we'll journey into the garden, and the goats pen for some fun! Enjoy the journey with me.</span></div>
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<i style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This little one as been a very busy bee--look at that pollen! This bee is only about 1/4" long. I'm not too good with identifying species, so if anyone can, please let me know. --Image date: 06/04/14</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>From a distance... </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Wow, were the dandelion seeds flying around yesterday! It almost looked like it was snowing, and kind of reminded me of the opening line of Luke Bryan's "Drunk on You" - "Cottonwood blowin' like snow in July..." </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>One lone male Mallard duck floated in the creek as we crossed over the bridge on our way to the mailbox. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>Ah, my mother's bleeding hearts. She tried and tried to thin them out, but they hearty plants. The pink and white plants have now mixed together, and I was able to get one shot showcasing them both. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>I'm sure Mom is smiling down knowing that her Clematis is still thriving. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>The PJM blossoms have come and gone, and now it's time for the Rhododendrons. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>I'm not sure what these are, but my sister may remember. They're a quite tall plant that my mother put in her side yard. I'll have to do some checking. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>Have you ever looked up at the world from inside a Red Maple tree? Well, now you have... </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>The Tiger Swallowtail's (this is the male) were particularly cooperative yesterday, and were thoroughly enjoying the Lilac blossoms. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>This one's for you Mom. The Lilacs enjoyed a full bloom this year with no late frosts to kill them. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Of course, it was hot, so Harlee took a dip in the creek to cool off. She also scared the Mallard, but I'm sure he'll be back, and Harlee really needed the cool down. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>These next few shots are of what I've taken to calling the "Swallowtail Drinking Party-Tiger Style." Several gathered in one small area to drink from the ground. The party starts out with one butterfly getting ready for guests. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>The first guest has arrived. Surely the party will pick up soon. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>And then there were three... </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>And four... </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>The fifth one is a real party crasher, and flew in unannounced! </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Of course, there's always one in the bunch that has to have a little too much and trip over his own wings. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>The simplicity of a buttercup. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>And a gently moving meadow. If I didn't think I'd get eaten alive by bugs, this seems like such a nice place to just sit and daydream. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<i>A wild strawberry peeks out from beneath its green canopy. Some little critter is going to be happy to see you! --Image date: 06/04/14</i></div>
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<i style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I would usually take the time to look up what kind of flower this is prior to posting, but my computer just notified me that it will be restarting in 14.39 seconds in order to update Windows, so I'll have to get back to that. These are growing wild all over the farm; they are quite small, but very pretty. --Image date: 06/04/14</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Last year's golden rod still holding on. As an allergy sufferer, I'm not to anxious to see the newly blossomed yellow of this year's crop anytime soon. --Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>This little bluebird was singing his heart out to another one in the patch of woods across the pasture. I was planting at the time, and actually asked him out loud, "What are you talking about little friend? And why does she not answer you?" And then I thought, he's probably just making fun me, "Look at that crazy human with the picture box in her hands thinking she's sneaking up on me. Like I'm going to let her get close enough. Ha. Silly human girl." </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>The plants are all in...bring on the rain! </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>The goats! Mia was in a particularly playful mood. It was hard to capture it, but I tried anyway. </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>"I am king of the tire." </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>"Come on Belle, let's play!" </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> <i>"Please Belle. Please, please, please. Come on." </i><i>--Image date: 06/04/14</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>And one final shot of my view on my way up to my office. I love when the grass gets long enough to turn the horses out in the upper pasture. So peaceful and pretty. </i><i>--Image date: 06/05/14</i></span><br />
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I hope you enjoyed our little journey. Join me again next time for more of "Today's Lens." </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Thanks for viewing!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Laura</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-11031099756572079712014-05-11T18:22:00.002-07:002014-05-11T18:29:37.646-07:00Early Spring<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">He is babbling through teeth of stone,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">drooling in veins that spread</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">across dormant, bone-wet ground.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Relief lies dammed</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">with last year’s deciduous puke.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Ignorant pools burst </span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #37404e; display: inline; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><br />into careless tendrils slithering<br />toward a creek that will carry<br />the Old Man away.<br /><br />For now.<br /><br />A soggy, water-laden sponge swallows<br />Every footstep and threatens<br />To steal your shoe. You pull away<br />But not without layers of phlegm.<br />She is cantankerous,<br />ridding Herself of his purity –<br />a mass of ashes and smut and filth.<br />Unmannered and ruthless,<br />the old Dame’s way.<br /><br />For now.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-55850387420907372692014-05-11T04:17:00.002-07:002014-05-11T14:32:23.086-07:00Breathe Full CircleMy mother isn't here.<br>
She’s with my father.<br>
But, they’re gone. <br>
<br>
Not on a trip or a vacation;<br>
not in the conventional sense of such,<br>
but gone.<br>
<br>
Someplace that I am unsure of. <br>Someplace that I am assured is good.<br>
A place of no pain or suffering,<br>
filled with warmth and love for all beings and all things;<br>
and, I, <br>
I can only hope that this is true. <br>
<br>
There is no science to concretely prove the theory.<br>
No proof. No evidence found at a graveside or<br>
message carved on a tombstone to let me know<br>
that the world they left behind was merely existence,<br>
and that the unknown is what holds the secret to life and living. <br>
<br>
But, there is also nothing to prove otherwise. <br>
<br>
All I know for sure is that their bodies<br>
have been returned to the earth from whence they came.<br>
<br>
Full circle.<br>
<br>
And their souls...<div>Their souls have been spread among us – the living –<br>
to be shared, treasured, and passed down<br>
through the generations of our own families,<br>
and to the families of families of friends and relatives<br>
whose lives they touched in some way<br>
large or small. <br>
<br>
Memories. <br>
<br>
Ah, those are my celebration and my heartbreak. <br>
They can carry me through, or tear me down –<br>
rip me apart limb by limb, drain the liquid from my soul,<br>
and leave me parched, empty,<br>
and longing for the embrace that left me. <br>
<br>
Memories can lift me from that place of darkness,<br>
that echoing chamber in my mind where I,<br>
for reasons unknown and often unbelievable,<br>
have chosen to allow the infliction of pain to capture me. <br>
<br>
Where instead of celebrating<br>
the hugs, laughs, encouragements, lessons, and love,<br>
I grovel at the feet of pity and despair<br>
only to lift my head<br>
and find nothing but a photograph…<br>
a favorite record...<br>
a cherished heirloom…<br>
a pocketknife, sweater, handkerchief.<br>
<br>
A threadbare t-shirt.<br>
An unfinished afghan.<br>
<br>
Breathe. <br>
First, life-giving breaths of birth.<br>
<br>
Breathe.<br>
Invigorating, life-sustaining breaths of living.<br>
<br>
Breathe.<br>
Shallow, painful breaths of death. <br>
<br>
Breathe.<br>
Eternal, circular breaths of remembrance.</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-62192166828317198902014-05-01T08:01:00.002-07:002014-05-01T08:44:15.644-07:00Drama vs. TruthI could go on and on about this topic, but I'm strapped for time right now. As many know, there has been a longstanding battle over shutting down the carriage business in New York City (Philadelphia has also been targeted, but not on such grand a platform). It boils down to politics and animal rights extremists vs. the carriage drivers and horse owners. The other day, friends posted this to our Facebook page:<br />
<br />
<script height="240px" src="http://player.ooyala.com/iframe.js#pbid=f9babf3a1fd64fbb82916ce9d76ffcfa&ec=UyaDRvbToX1iPHARVtACJOe7fJ59bCAs" width="320px"></script>
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<br />
This whole issue reeks of ignorance. The saddest part is
that the bandwagon is full of ill-informed mouth pieces with louder microphones
than the ones in the know.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The ASPCA itself has set regulations for the carriage horses,
and even has staff that keep watch on how long each horse is on
shift to make sure that they’re not being overworked, that they are not working
in extreme conditions (heat/cold), and that they are kept humanely. Horses are
meant to work. They are healthier, and I like to think happier though I've
never actually seen a horse smile (well, maybe I have but people will think I’m
crazy), when they are working and fit. In fact, it is much healthier for a
horse to be working rather than a living lawn ornament whether it be as a carriage horse, work horse (plowing,
hauling, farming), riding horse, or any other physically active type of horse. Inactive, barn-kept horses are more unhealthy, and quite honestly, not happy horses.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, instead of choosing to clearly inform their viewers (some of the NYC stables are on prime real estate that friends of politicians want to develop in addition to other hidden agendas), this local news station decided to fill a time slot by jumping aboard the abuse-to-animals train
that has long plagued New York City carriage drivers, their horses, and the livelihoods of both. Choosing
to spread the wealth of ignorance rather than researching and reporting the
underlying reasons for the proposed ban because it might mean standing up to political
agendas driven by the thickness of their wallets and elected
position of probable corrupt power, because--why? It's easier? It's what the public wants? It's what sells? Oh wait, they did interview very reliable horse owners from Happy Trails--great people who are experienced and skilled in the craft of horsemanship with reputable facilities, horses, and services--but what about the whole story? I fully appreciate the reporter having sought out horsemen for their views and valid opinions--that in itself is quite commendable--but it's not enough.<br />
<br />
What ever happened to investigative reporting and telling
the whole story rather than pure sensationalism and a twisted idea of what the
public wants to hear? I, personally, am tired of the drama for the sake of
drama. Not only in relation to this topic, but several: it's going to snow (close the schools and streets for an inch), it's going to be cold (bring in your pets, it's going below 30), a brick fell from a building (reporter tosses an already-fallen brick while standing in supposed harm's way). This isn't a prime time drama. It's not supposed to be entertaining for the sake of ratings. It's supposed to be the news. The good, the bad, and the ugly of it. And <i>all</i> of it. I’m tired of having to do my own research to get to the real story
because I can only trust a minuscule amount of the information that I get from
the news. What sells is important? No, truth is what's important! And reporting the
truth, all angles of it, should be a moral, ethical, and unequivocal requirement
for any newscaster, reporter, writer, or analyst. </div>
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<br />
For the record:<br />
<br />
According to an <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2014/04/15/opinion/carriages-belong-in-central-park.html?_r=0" target="_blank">editorial written by actor Liam Neeson</a> in support of the carriage workers "the city’s horse-drawn carriages have made an estimated 6 million trips in traffic in the past 30 years, most ending up in Central Park. Four horses have been killed in collisions with motor vehicles, with no human fatalities." That's much better than the multitude of automobile accidents in the city. Or, the amount of courier accidents while weaving in and out of traffic on their bicycles. He also noted that "the horse carriage trade is a “humane industry that is well regulated by New York City’s Departments of Health and Mental Hygiene and Consumer Affairs.” This past weekend, <a href="http://magicvalley.com/business/agriculture/carriage-horse-foes-picket-liam-neeson-s-nyc-home/article_43159b22-cda5-11e3-8c26-0019bb2963f4.html" target="_blank">picketers paced outside his NYC home protesting his support</a>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2962726135087788529.post-91879619349789417912014-04-02T15:01:00.004-07:002014-04-02T15:08:22.713-07:00Ellen Klages: Portable Childhoods<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="375" scrolling="no" src="http://fora.tv/embed?id=1255&type=c" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="550"></iframe><br />
<a href="http://fora.tv/v/c1255">Ellen Klages: Portable Childhoods</a> from <a href="http://fora.tv/partner/Book_Passage"> Book Passage</a> on <a href="http://fora.tv/">FORA.tv</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03901647546574084776noreply@blogger.com0