Quiet Times — island mettle

September is a favorite time for me on the Island. I think it goes back to having to leave in early August in order to ready my classroom for the coming school year. I rarely spent time here in September. Retirement from over 30 years of teaching has its rewards and this place at this time is one of them.

"Morning Moonshine" Photo: Rachel Schwandt

After Labor Day, activity takes on a different tone. It is the time to notice things that can often slip by, especially in Nature. Two reasons for this photo, well, make it three. First, it is absolutely gorgeous! Second, those of you who know me are aware I rarely am up to see a sunrise (I won't say never.) So, when I saw Rachel's 6:30 am shot of Figenschau Bay, I had to preserve it. Thanks for allowing this share, Rachel. Lastly, We have had been enjoying a Harvest Moon this past week. It has been amazing. So large and so lovely I scouted for info as I thought this vision appears only in October. Not always so. See this link for more info. This morning capture was quite special!

The critters outside continue to get my attention. I have a real crush on Monarch butterflies. While I am trying to increase milkweed and other Monarch attracting plants on our property I have seen fewer it seems this year. Some butterflies will travel as far as 3,000 miles, moving 50 to 100 miles each day! As Joanne says, somebody better tell these guys to get a move on!

Quiet times mean things can be fixed. When the item in question is named Dorothy, she goes to the head of the list.The broken spring pictured above is part of the Bendix Drive which causes the starting motor engage and "crank" the engine. When it broke last week, the engine wouldn't start. Finding an extra part for an 83 year old truck might seem hard on an Island but not when there are "resources".

Lew just went into his workshop - a veritable treasure trove of springs and sprockets to satisfy any need mechanical or not. (I have to admit I don't call that basement depository such an endearing term but it is the way Lew feels about it.) As a result, Dorothy was up and running in no time.

The goldenrod has been out in force. It gives some color as we transition into Autumn. I was happy to find out that goldenrod is not an allergy menace. The culprit is ragweed which does not seem as distinctive in the looks department.

What is interesting is the strength of the spider webs that are far enough away from the house to elude my broom. While the look is delicate, it is amazing how long they manage to stay in one piece given the wind we have had. When there is a moment it is nice to take a closer look.

Mushrooms are about, all kinds! These are Chicken of the Woods here from Melody. I bet they tasted good at dinner. Sure wish I could keep them all straight. The formations are lovely but I continue to learn from wiser folks which ones are edible.

From the tiny to the tentative, yet tenacious tots, Melody reports she saw eleven of these lovelies in her yard recently. That's quite a herd.

Me? I just continue to take in the sunsets. That time of day is more my time. While September can start to seem a little bland color wise as the foliage starts to tire, there is color about if one keeps their eyes open.

Alas, travel and curiosity calls. We will see what life is like in anther place in these next weeks. Maybe/Probably visit another island or two. I do like islands.

til next time ...