#michigan spring

[johnschneiderblog]

Whiplash

During that recent string of days when afternoon temperatures wandered into the 70s and our wood stove sat idle, I began to wonder - even though I knew better - if our wood-burning days were over until next fall.

But on Sunday temperatures started a downhill slide that culminated in a freeze warning that lasts through 11 a.m. today; not a mild frost, but freeze. It’s 27 degrees as I write this.

I notice, however, that our wild ride on Michigan's spring Tilt-A-Whirl will soon thrust us back in the right direction. Near 70 tomorrow; then 70s for the next few days.

Maybe then our wood-burning days will be over. Maybe not

[ostdrossel]

Happy spring greetings! This is a video from 20 minutes ago. Sigh.

[nosuchthingasme]

[squirtdrk]

I want to lay in the grass but I feel like I’d just be sitting in dog pee.

[ostdrossel]

The small crowd

is not less entertaining right now. It is a funny time because summer and winter kind of meet. Spring can be felt and seen. The Goldfinches are starting to get their bright yellow summer plumage but at the same time, Redbreasted Nuthatches are still hanging around, as well as Juncos who do the most insane flight manoeuvers right now. (The lens fogged up when the Junco was there, and I think it created a cool look.)

[ostdrossel]

These are strange times,

when bird migration is underway but you can’t see results yet, the weather is spring-like but also still full of frosty surprises, and we are kind of in an in-between. However, there is also a lot of love in the air! House Finches, like many other birds, strengthen their bond during mating season by feeding each other. It is adorable to watch. Come good into Friday!

[ostdrossel]

The days are getting longer,

the grass is slowly getting greener, but things are off to a slow start with spring still. It feels like Goldfinches, Grackles and Doves are domainating the yard. But today, I had a Titmouse! And Mandrake, the Bluebird, came to the feeder too. He is guarding Dr. Clara in the box and occasionally bringing her snacks. Have a good Easter Sunday!

[ostdrossel]

I was feeling adventurous

and put one of the hummer feeders on my photo setup. They are coming but I have not seen one yet and we got snow today. But oh well. I did get a Tufted Titmouse, which I haven’t seen in quite a bit.