Spring is a time for seasonal migration. Books and magazines from our Wyoming daughter chronicle the movement of large animals—bison and mule deer—around her state. Michigan’s lifeforms move, too, although the migrations are more apt to be winged than quadrupedal. From raptors to smallest songbirds, migratory birds are arriving in our state. We read… Continue reading Migration
Category: Michigan Stories
Chatting
Tuesday was a wonderful day, sunny and warm, a welcome relief after our late snow. Trees were blooming. Flowers were blooming. The grass was so green now that it reminded me of Ireland. Cardinals had built a nest in the rosebush twining around our porch, and Mrs. Cardinal was already sitting on eggs. … Continue reading Chatting
Late Snow
We had a late snow this week. Television meteorologists had been daring to hint that we might have had an early last snowfall, and then, late in April, along came this winter storm. A couple more inches of snow is no big deal after months of wielding a snow shovel. We didn’t even need… Continue reading Late Snow
To Lighten the Darkness
Since CoVid-19 descended on us and spread its darkness over the world, neighbors in the Midwest have been creating points of light to cheer each other on their way. We put teddy bears on window sills. The thinking was that children walking by would enjoy seeing the bears and be, for a moment, comforted… Continue reading To Lighten the Darkness
After the Plow
The roar of an approaching snowplow is a welcome sound in the Midwest. It holds the promise of being able to venture out with the car again after the latest snow. You’ve shoveled the walks and driveway. You’ve scraped the car’s windows and brushed the snow off its roof. You’re ready to go. But the… Continue reading After the Plow
Winter Surprises
Winter has arrived in Michigan, and with it come certain expectations. Michiganders know there will be grey slushy days and days so beautiful they remind us what a privilege it is to live here. Children will build snowpeople, then head for the sledding hills. Hockey players will clear rinks on the pond. Dogs will cavort,… Continue reading Winter Surprises
Enough Boots
Another cold grey day today. Yesterday was glorious and sunny, but that was then. The situation today is snow on the ground, clear sidewalks, and the path through the woods so icy you could skate on it. What to put on my feet? As I surveyed my choices this morning, I decided I might not… Continue reading Enough Boots
Tracks in the Snow
One sunny day this week, I went to one of our public golf courses to look for animal tracks—I’ve seen some good ones there over the years. My husband was a little concerned about the isolated location. He didn’t voice the concern, but it was clear on his face, and he admitted to it later… Continue reading Tracks in the Snow
Little Dog in Deepish Snow
It snowed overnight, about seven inches. The thermometer is stuck in the teens. The wind is blowing. There are puffs of snow stuck in our screens. But if you have a dog, you go for walks. That’s the way it is. Our little mutt likes his walks. He’s a trooper. His cheerful outlook in all… Continue reading Little Dog in Deepish Snow
A Good Week for Ice and Snow
It was busy on and around the pond this morning. On our way to the easement, dog and I saw three adults peering up into an evergreen, the man pointing with his whole arm extended, the women trying to see what he was seeing. All were intent, concentrating hard. The object of their scrutiny… Continue reading A Good Week for Ice and Snow