Rail Fest

Virginia Rails are known as solitary and secretive denizens of marshes (their scientific name Rallus limicola literally translates as mud-dwelling rail), but during certain seasons they seem to forget about their secretive natures and not only show their furtive selves to appreciative eyes, but even convene for rail parties. Contrary to their name’s suggestion, their … Continue reading Rail Fest

Winter At Last

No sooner had I lamented January’s dearth of snow than our first substantial winter storm dropped a much-anticipated and greatly appreciated 7 inches in our corner of the country. As we all know, not each snowfall is created equal. While we have lived through many a blizzard, this most recent meteorological event allowed each snowflake … Continue reading Winter At Last

January Takes Its Leave

Being stuck who knows where on the trajectory of the decades-long mega-drought that has been haunting the American West since the year 2000, precipitation in any form is welcome. Living in Colorado, in winter one has the not unreasonable expectation or hope for this precipitation to assume the form of snow. However, as I have … Continue reading January Takes Its Leave

A Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Encore: Baby Animals

While the list of topics a majority of people can agree on seems to be forever-shrinking, I think most of us will acknowledge that we are enamored of baby animals. When my husband and I finally returned to our local Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in May 2021, after a two- or three-year hiatus, I was inspired … Continue reading A Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Encore: Baby Animals

Places and People of the Pikes Peak Region

I thank you for reading and commenting on last week’s post (and for inquiring about my book), just as I thank the cranes for comforting me and putting things in perspective earlier this year. Even before the close of my three-day sojourn in the Sandhill Cranes' presence in March, I resolved not to put away … Continue reading Places and People of the Pikes Peak Region