tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73375824199627515552024-03-05T09:29:36.123-06:00Quiet NatureClaire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-56413343311129780422011-05-08T18:24:00.002-05:002011-05-08T18:28:42.497-05:00Mother's DayI did some local birding today, Mother's Day. Enjoyed seeing Baltimore Orioles, Red-Breasted Grosbeak and Indigo Buntings, my May Trifecta! A few other species found on my 2 mile walk, but none too far out of the ordinary.<br /><br />For your reading pleasure today, I link you to a report from the Birding group from my home town of City Island, New York. They had quite the day!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cityislandbirds.com/Split_Rock-_Mothers_Day_Walk.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" _yuid="yui_3_1_1_7_1304896681718166">http://www.cityislandbirds.com/Split_Rock-_Mothers_Day_Walk.html</a>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-61408582602400790622011-04-22T06:56:00.003-05:002011-04-22T07:10:09.337-05:00Spring-Summer 2011 ShowsArmed with a few new products and many new photos, I'm gearing up for a busy 2011 show season. Hope you can visit my booth a time or two!<br /><br />Saturday May 14, 2011<br />9am-2pm<br /><br />Rolling Meadows Hometown Plant and Craft Sale<br />3200 Central Rd<br />Rolling Meadows<br /><br />This is one of my favorite venues. The plants are wonderful, and the organizers of the craft venue have been so great to give me a primo location every year! After packing up from this sale, I will be heading up to Door County for a week!<br /><br /><br /><br />Dundee Farmers Market<br />Most Saturdays, 8am-2pm<br />Dundee Farmers Market<br /><br />319 N River St<br />East Dundee IL<br /><a href="http://www.dundeedepot.com/">http://www.dundeedepot.com/</a><br /><br />This is a fun market, combining a great veggie guy, lots of flea type items and quality crafts. Stop by any Saturday and look around! You're sure to find something interesting!<br /><br /><br /><br />More summer events coming up. Check back for info!Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-85140071408107345972011-02-16T10:43:00.003-06:002011-02-16T11:05:29.636-06:00EAGLES in the NEIGHBORHOOD<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvcXNysFXQepcg8vIrFNlvTa6ntP7nSDd8mAoOLl7aGzOfLbc05oz0EF4hd7ZmMrmRUrYZmvGW9t0AfkAjSplD8vlayLdlTecNVr88hHLkiwRMdBWBrBqjZ5YY6lXgOFhv6KSutwPkeA/s1600/IMG_6188+cropps.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574329734439562018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 216px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvcXNysFXQepcg8vIrFNlvTa6ntP7nSDd8mAoOLl7aGzOfLbc05oz0EF4hd7ZmMrmRUrYZmvGW9t0AfkAjSplD8vlayLdlTecNVr88hHLkiwRMdBWBrBqjZ5YY6lXgOFhv6KSutwPkeA/s320/IMG_6188+cropps.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRWKlijknyr3AwH0uRcdzgc3L369OD_juAaYgMh8uFLTFN7dDcoRYtP5ipVOCj4SGBYkly_hqYCAONqbrJ5Pu7x0v8IMvQ-dLbbaSAG_VvV3SznLyAKNXrIrjkcJQlHAkAUscK0mllwWc/s1600/IMG_5823+cropps.jpg"></a><br /><br /><div></div></div><br /><p>This past few years have been very good for the eagle population along the Fox River and other areas in Illinois. A nest was recently spotted near Mooseheart in the south suburbs, and the count in my own neighborhood of Algonquin-Carpentersville-Dundee has risen to 7. When I first moved to an area on the Fox almost 9 years ago, I learned about a nearby "nesting pair" and was given the secret location of their nest, but no young seem to have come from this particular evergreen tree. Three years ago I saw "the pair" for the first time with my own eyes; two years ago I had my first juvenile spotting in the area, and as of today I know first hand of the 4 adults and three maturing juveniles that appear to live here.<br /></p><p>What a thrill it is to walk around the block, or sit at my home-office desk and see one or more fly by or sitting in a nearby tree! </p><p>The photo above was taken during one of my annual Iowa/Mississippi River treks. I know I'll never catch an eagle shot from the window here (besides which, I'm supposed to be working!):))</p>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-8794271736316340522010-08-17T09:12:00.003-05:002010-08-17T09:38:24.733-05:00Dear friends and followers,<br /><br />I am stuck on a semi-hiatis this spring and summer due to a terrrrrible allergy season. Driving, photographing, editing photos, and typing are all challenges thru weepy, blurry eyes! I am ready for FALL which hopefully will bring a close to this aggravating condition.<br />One place that surprisingly doesn't affect me too badly is the Chicago Botanic Gardens, so here you will find a few shots taken there recently.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ZyTHJkcIjWSTvZ8ObHEjdgmqXdnF-5hKeaSc8DtJPUEwBn6jOIskA409DeDGjCYJijaKwzqwPVbbx31ghH51WczZj5rV5PJx5iyBbO3BJcTTjDVoLyY_ZGdeIK9RrzJVorGe_I_Vvd0/s1600/IMG_0477+cropps+tighter.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506383646083004786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 222px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8ZyTHJkcIjWSTvZ8ObHEjdgmqXdnF-5hKeaSc8DtJPUEwBn6jOIskA409DeDGjCYJijaKwzqwPVbbx31ghH51WczZj5rV5PJx5iyBbO3BJcTTjDVoLyY_ZGdeIK9RrzJVorGe_I_Vvd0/s320/IMG_0477+cropps+tighter.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYevgADW3fF5_Ms_scgLn7FSmVSu8xWpAAJVAQIrP-7BfpsNwNmXWMCVMXmbSqZ4-eqg4bw97Lp_ZZlPr8fLrlfM8rhXcFooS5YXsomyolNA9sC-4bYijndhjKpAUj0b8jaXEI6iHlU74/s1600/IMG_0495+cropps+web.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506383640412895106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYevgADW3fF5_Ms_scgLn7FSmVSu8xWpAAJVAQIrP-7BfpsNwNmXWMCVMXmbSqZ4-eqg4bw97Lp_ZZlPr8fLrlfM8rhXcFooS5YXsomyolNA9sC-4bYijndhjKpAUj0b8jaXEI6iHlU74/s320/IMG_0495+cropps+web.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7MgZRKdWh7RBNrxD-7JorpD6mt5eDEeOtFqBDucAa9dYZh-r-iZdLmB4pY4GnZtPEzAhzWw_3qv6gNn2FBs-cNA6hLHVAthQrzrnCd9NhAzkI3g8Hj0LdYQgmgrN0YA3cuXGbQG9B_Po/s1600/IMG_0331++cropps+bluer.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506383636635432466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 218px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7MgZRKdWh7RBNrxD-7JorpD6mt5eDEeOtFqBDucAa9dYZh-r-iZdLmB4pY4GnZtPEzAhzWw_3qv6gNn2FBs-cNA6hLHVAthQrzrnCd9NhAzkI3g8Hj0LdYQgmgrN0YA3cuXGbQG9B_Po/s320/IMG_0331++cropps+bluer.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjySVw_DPFILYvdinkfDD3zqLbwEVm38eqaFrxQ5msf9XhO1zjTpKuMsak-XC1lnoCmDcWwbj79Drd0U7WwlP1J10NGRj8hqKVgfTAt_NnmXiJb9PYhcvIA2q3JcZ3fKxeW-v4jjAfyI4/s1600/IMG_0190+cropps+web.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5506383628031892226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjySVw_DPFILYvdinkfDD3zqLbwEVm38eqaFrxQ5msf9XhO1zjTpKuMsak-XC1lnoCmDcWwbj79Drd0U7WwlP1J10NGRj8hqKVgfTAt_NnmXiJb9PYhcvIA2q3JcZ3fKxeW-v4jjAfyI4/s320/IMG_0190+cropps+web.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div>If you're nearby, you can visit me at one of these upcoming shows:</div><div> </div><div><span style="color:#006600;">Dundee Farmers Market on Saturday August 21 (8 am to 1 pm)</span></div><div><span style="color:#006600;">Huntlely Farmers Market Saturday September 4th (8 am to 1 pm)</span></div><div><span style="color:#006600;">Huntley Farmers Market Saturday October 2 (8 am to 1 pm)</span></div><div><span style="color:#006600;">Algonquin Farmers Market Saturday October 9</span></div><div><span style="color:#006600;">Plainfield River Days Art Fair Saturday September 11th 10 am to 6 pm</span></div><div><span style="color:#006600;">Witches Night Out in Joliet (<a href="http://www.witchesnightout.com/">www.witchesnightout.com</a>)</span><span style="color:#006600;"> Thursday October 28 (5 pm to 10 pm)</span></div><div><br /><br /> </div></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-24900130974494171322010-05-01T10:23:00.001-05:002010-05-01T10:28:48.568-05:00This blog has moved<br /> This blog is now located at http://quietnaturephoto.blogspot.com/.<br /> You will be automatically redirected in 30 seconds, or you may click <a href='http://quietnaturephoto.blogspot.com/'>here</a>.<br /><br /> For feed subscribers, please update your feed subscriptions to<br /> http://quietnaturephoto.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default.<br /> Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-3379704642007331052010-05-01T09:40:00.002-05:002010-05-01T10:19:05.276-05:00<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 226px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/Rolling-Meadows-Plant-Sale-2010-postcard-708446.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#339999;">Sale time! </span>It's approaching again! While I'm not much of a sales type, I do enjoy getting out there and sharing both my photos and what I know or enjoy about my subjects with guests who visit my booth.<br />Stock up on <span style="color:#339999;">Quiet Nature</span> Note Cards, Magnets, Bookmarks, and the new Pocket/Purse Mirrors, all in your favorite nature images. New images too!<br /><br /><br />This year I will be participating in my favorite show,<br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#339999;"><span style="font-size:180%;">The Rolling Meadows Hometown Plant</span> <span style="font-size:180%;">and Craft Sale</span></span></span>,<br /><br />held this year on <span style="font-size:130%;color:#339999;">Saturday May 15th from 9am-2pm</span>.<br /><br />With any luck, my booth will be located close to the Plant tables, where the flocks of shoppers congregate.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />New for me this year will be a monthly booth at the<br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#339999;">Huntley Farmers Market</span>.<br />This will take place on the<br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#339999;">First Saturday of each month: May 8, June 5, July 3, August 7, September 4, and October 2.</span><br /><br />I hope, if you are local, you can make it out to Huntley. The setting is nice and from what I observed last year, the assortment of crafts is nice. The remainder of the market is a traditional one, with fresh fruits and veggies galore!<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#339999;">Stay tuned for more information regarding a show on Sunday July 11th "Art in the Garden", taking place at the Fields on Caton Farm Road, in Crest Hill, IL near Plainfield. </span>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-2722529165894414312010-03-06T15:08:00.002-06:002010-03-06T15:57:10.706-06:00Lake Katherine, Palos Heights IL<div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_9330-no-cropps-web-706485.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_9330-no-cropps-web-706411.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>It all started with a bad week at work. </div><br /><br /><div>If anyone tells you that the Flu is rough on the elderly, especially those in "community living"environments, do believe them! It is true. Loss of control, loss of lives. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Ah, so it's Friday...what does Barbara Mahany have to say today? Mahany is a feature writer for the Chicago Trib and a way-back-when friend of mine. In today's <a href="http://www.pullupachair.com/">http://www.pullupachair.com/</a> meandering she writes ..."just when we think we're broken, along comes someone, something, to haul us back from the empty brink"........."for those of us who count on bird and tree and sprig to offer counsel, dish out therapeutic session without the hefty fee-per-hour, there comes this time of year a subtle tapping on the shoulder, urging us on, giving us reason to believe".......</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>That tap came today from the on-line birding group whose members inform each other of the whereabouts of interesting sightings. Mark, who one year ago practically snatched me out of my car to come and see the American Bittern he found lurking in the bushes we all read about, has posted about the beautiful and approachable Trumpeter Swans he found at Lake Katherine. By Google, Mapquest, etc...I found Lake Katherine and headed out there today. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>While visiting, I chatted with a Lake Katherine homestead resident who told me about the history of the now beautifully developed land that once was a garbage dump! <a href="http://www.lakekatherine.org/">http://www.lakekatherine.org/</a> describes the work that has been done in beautiful detail.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>Tomorrow is back to work day, and I do feel re-charged.</div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 218px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_0397-cropps-tight-web-706525.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-1356100390929922352009-11-04T06:36:00.004-06:002009-11-04T08:18:15.212-06:00Quiet Nature Booths 2009<a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/Quiet-Nature-Banner-09-785202.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 351px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 131px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/Quiet-Nature-Banner-09-784876.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><div><div>So many opportunities, so little time!</div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><div>I just completed a 20 week "every Thursday" commitment with the Algonquin Farmers Market, missing only a few days due to rain. I had fun selling photo notecards, magnets and bookmarks and getting to know my wonderful group of co-vendors. Along with my usual collection of Birds, Butterflies and Flowers items, many of my Door County images were popular sellers. </div><div><br /></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_0132CROPPSWEB-702551.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>Now I'm gearing up for Fall and Holiday shows. I hope you can make it to one or more of these shows! I will have the old favorites and many new images as well! Most of my items are priced at $5 or less and make great high quality, one of a kind stocking stuffers and gifts for friends, family, co-workers, classmates, etc.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Saturday Nov 7 from 9 am till 4 pm</strong></div><div><strong>Rolling Meadows High School Holiday Craft Boutique</strong></div><div><strong>2901 Central Road</strong></div><div><strong>Rolling Meadows</strong></div><div><strong>$3 admission</strong></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 222px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/img_0138cropps-gourd-705820.jpg" border="0" /> This will be my 5th year here...it's one of those sprawling fairs with 150 booths filled with all kinds of quality home made items. There's a nice Raffle too. Look for my booth: Quiet Nature!</div><div>Mention that you read about this on my blog and receive a free gift!<br /><div></div><div></div><div>~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~</div><div><br /><br /><div><strong>Saturday Nov 14 from 10 am till 4 pm</strong></div><div><strong>Kirk of the Lakes Craft Show</strong></div><div><strong>1500 W. Hawley</strong></div><div><strong>Mundelein</strong></div><div><strong>free admission</strong></div><br /><div></div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 220px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/img_0440cropbirdps-712822.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>This will be my first year participating here. I was "invited" during one of the Market days. I'm looking foward to this new location.</div><div></div><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div>~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~<br /><br /><br /><div><strong>Sunday Nov 15 from 1 pm- 3 pm</strong></div><div><strong>UU Church of Elgin</strong></div><div><strong>39W830 Highland Ave</strong></div><div><strong>Elgin</strong></div><strong>free admission</strong><br /><br /><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_0832croppsweb-764083.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>For the 7th time, I will join in with local farmers and artisans to participate in the Winter Market. Don't miss this one if you like to get your meat from a great Amish farmer. Arnolds will be there, along with other organic and sustainable farmers. Artisan products usually include things like handmade soap, wool items, jams and salsa, etc. I'm honored that Quiet Nature is "green" enough to be included in this fair. Stop by if those two short hours on a Sunday afternoon fit your schedule!</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><br /><br />~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~<br /><br /><br /><div><strong>Tuesday Nov 17 and Wednesday Nov 18 from 4:30 pm till 8:30 pm</strong></div><div><strong>Algonquin Preschool Vendor Fair</strong></div><div><strong>109 Washington St</strong></div><div><strong>Algonquin</strong></div><strong>free admission</strong><br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_7020cropps2web-739438.jpg" border="0" /> <div>I was invited to this during the Market days and it's another new venue for me. A portion of my sales at this show will benefit a local Animal Shelter. If you live in the area, stop by after work and visit the Quiet Nature booth.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-58581865537979438902009-09-15T18:36:00.004-05:002009-09-15T20:14:58.020-05:00Dundee Township Dog Days of Summer 09Randall Oaks Park in Algonquin was once again the site for the Second Annual Dog Days of Summer; an event originated by Robin of F.Y.D.O. <a href="http://www.fydoland.com/">http://www.fydoland.com/</a>, and put in to action by the Dundee Township Parks Department. This year's event showcased many vendors and was very well attended by dogs of all kinds.<br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>There were some "old friends" from last year, <a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/2008_09_08_archive.html">www.quietnature.com/blog/2008_09_08_archive.html</a></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 215px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3392-cropps-web-766762.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>And a wide variety of "new friends". </div><br /><br /><div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 215px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3457-cropps-web-736417.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3360-cropps-web-763640.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 216px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3179-cropps-web-774475.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><div></div><br /><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 215px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3318-cropps-web-763565.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><div></div><div></div><br /><br /><div>ALL PAWS Veterinary Clinic staff was on had to provide free testing for fleas and heartworm. <a href="http://www.allpawsvet.com/">http://www.allpawsvet.com/</a></div><br /><br /><div></div><div></div><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 215px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3309-croppsweb-709298.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Here's ALL PAWS' tech Jen's new puppy Vinnie! He is sooo cute!</div><br /><br /><br /><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3151-cropps-web-744483.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>Various Doggie Day Care and Dog Training groups, as well as Rescue and Adoption groups were ready to answer the many questions posed to them by owners. Demos were provided to show us just how successful we can be teaching our pets tricks and commands.<br /></div><br /><br /><div></div> <img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_1527-cropps-web-750261.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 217px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3260-cropps-web-709224.jpg" border="0" /> </div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_1505-cropps-web-797858.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_1498-cropps-web-761066.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 218px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_1490-cropps-web-760994.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 215px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3230-cropps-web-774552.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><p>This group of well behaved dogs was entertained thruout the morning with "Musical Sit", Agility Courses, "Funny Tricks", a Pet Parade and Costume Contest. This little guy got my proxy vote in the Costume Contest before I had to rush off to go to work!</p><p> </p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 215px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3487-cropps-web-713967.jpg" border="0" /></p>I'm already looking foward to the 3rd Annual event...<br /><br />To see photos from last years event, click on Sept. 2008 in the archives on this page.Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-49967864652632865432009-03-26T13:40:00.003-05:002009-03-26T21:34:29.388-05:00Pelicans at Nelson Lake, IllinoisSince I had to work this past weekend (two balmy spring-like days!), I took my binos and cameras along with me, and had more luck than I do on some actual birding excursions!<br /><br />En route to my morning calls in Wonder Lake and Island Lake I heard, then observed a small group of Sandhills making their way up North.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 208px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/Sandhill-Crane-757237.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br />Hawks are not an unusual occurrence this time of year....there were plenty of Red-Tails and Cooper's around.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/img_8212crop-789141.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 232px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/img_8212crop-789136.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>My afternoon calls took me past Churchill Park in Glen Ellyn, where Great Blue Herons are participating in their nesting rituals.<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/img_9745crop-757226.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 228px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/img_9745crop-757011.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />After my last stop in St Charles, I continued on to Batavia to one of the year's highlights for me.....viewing the American White Pelicans that stop over at Lake Nelson on their way North.<br /></div><br /><div>Hundreds of them gather for about a three week period. Most of them were some distance out on the lake in fishing "rings". This is an amazingly graceful sight to see!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_4868PSWEB-763808.jpg" border="0" /></div><div></div><div><br /> </div>Closer to shore about 50 pelicans concentrated on preening! What fun they are to watch.</div><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_4925CROPPSWEB-763869.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_5367-CROPPSWEB-799352.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><br />Ahh, spring has officially arrived!<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-38726678276061276982009-02-17T20:48:00.004-06:002009-02-17T21:06:18.265-06:00Bald Eagles<div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_2745CROPPSTWEB-780526.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_2745CROPPSTWEB-780492.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div><br /><div>This winter was a good one for Snowy Owls and Bald Eagles in the midwest. I personally had poor luck finding any Snowys, but did get a good visit in with the Bald Eagles along the Mississippi in in LeClaire, Iowa. </div><br /><br /><div>The local Carpentersville pair of Eagles fly quite regularly over my house and one occasionally sits in a tree visible from the living room, but there's something magical and awesome about seeing 10, 20 or more in a single tree that makes driving the 150 extra miles worthwhile. </div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_2691CROPPS2A-web-739769.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-90764139817900424622009-02-11T10:12:00.003-06:002009-02-11T10:55:43.442-06:00Adopt-A-Husky Dogs at Starved RockI'm becoming quite the Husky groupie. These dogs are so much fun to watch, and I learn more and more about them each time I visit and photograph them. Nope, this guy isn't basking in the sun, he's giving an "ah-woo" call!<br /><br /><br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3614psweb-766197.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />It was a cloudy day at Starved Rock last Sunday. I drove out there with a few things in mind: find some eagles, find a Snowy Owl and visit with the sled dogs. Plans A and B failed, but the nearly three hour trip was well worth it for some time with the Adopt-A-Husky group and their wonderful dogs.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3546croppsweb-772362.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3546croppsweb-772341.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Since the snow was melted, the WORKING DOGS DEMONSTRATION was presented using bikes, scooters, and good old fashioned walking/running.<br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3712psweb-796475.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3712psweb-796404.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3308PSWEB-746540.jpg" border="0" /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3281PSWEB-746416.jpg" border="0" /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3253PSWEB-799966.jpg" border="0" />Starved Rock was a beautiful back-drop for the action, and the lodge provided a comfy setting for an informative presentation about the Iditarod.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>In between outdoor runs, the Huskys graciously "sat" for some portraits!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3662psweb-796357.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3662psweb-796309.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3560psweb-766167.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3560psweb-766141.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3510psweb-728847.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3510psweb-728797.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3525psweb-728890.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3459croppsweb-794776.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3459croppsweb-794575.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3428psweb-794202.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_3428psweb-794153.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Visit their web site is <a href="http://www.adoptahusky.com/">www.adoptahusky.com</a> and learn how you can help!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-37155671256761148112009-01-26T20:52:00.003-06:002009-01-26T21:57:22.009-06:00Husky Heroes-Morton Arboretum Jan 09Here I go again, a confirmed cat person photographing dogs!<br /><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_2289ps-web-753400.jpg" border="0" /></div><div></div><div>The annual event, HUSKY HEROES, is presented at the Morton Arboretum by the local Adopt a Husky, Inc group: Siberian Husky Rescue. Visit their website at <a href="http://www.adoptahusky.com/">http://www.adoptahusky.com/</a></div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_2531ps-web-793211.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>These dogs are so gentle and sweet, yet they work so hard doing what they do!! They are quite amazing. They perform in teams to cover the thoughfully laid out track at the Morton Arboretum for several runs with plenty of rest time in between.</div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_2363ps-web-779369.jpg" border="0" /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_2194PS-web-763276.jpg" border="0" /><br />Not running today?? No problem, she's still included!<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_2375ps-web-719219.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div><div></div><div>The dogs work hard, and they seem to enjoy every minute of it!<br /><br /></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_2206ps-web-717782.jpg" border="0" /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_2578ps-web-732330.jpg" border="0" /><br />At the end of the day the trainers stayed around to answer questions and the dogs stayed around to look cute ...<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 213px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_2471cropps-web-765604.jpg" border="0" />and to get some rest...</div><div><br /></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 213px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_2414ps-web-740804.jpg" border="0" />What a wonderful day ! </div><div></div><div>Don't forget to visit the website and learn about all that this group does for Huskies!<a href="http://www.adoptahusky.com/">http://www.adoptahusky.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-41889543896895272522008-11-02T19:08:00.005-06:002008-11-02T20:31:03.643-06:00Sandhill Cranes at Jasper Pulaski Habitat, INA group of friends met at Jasper-Pulaski on Saturday to view the Sandhill Cranes before many of the Sandhills head south for the winter. While small groups of Sandhills are present on this well known patch of grass all day, masses of them congregate there at sunset. A comprehensive article on the Sandhills at Jasper-Pulaski can be found at the link:<br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://chicagowildernessmag.org/issues/fall2006/wejasperpulaski.html">http://chicagowildernessmag.org/issues/fall2006/wejasperpulaski.html</a></div><br /><div></div><div></div><div>Just before sunset, this small group of Sandhills were seen doing their bonding dance.</div><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_8357-cropps-web-773517.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_8357-cropps-web-773469.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />As the sun began to set, strings of Sandhills came in from all directions, circling and parachuting in for a landing.</div><div><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_8645-ps-web-744858.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_8645-ps-web-744813.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />This continued through the sun set and into dusk.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_8925ps-web-724073.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_8925ps-web-724036.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />In the morning, the Sandhills make a mass exit from the grassy field, and fly to nearby fields to feed. Just about anywhere you walk or drive within Jasper-Pulaski you will see Sandhills flying or congregating.<br /><div><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_8655-cropps-web-750939.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div><br /><div>On the way home, I took advantage of a missed lane change on the highway to photograph a few downtown Chicago landmarks. </div><div> </div><div> The Wrigley Building<br /> <a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_9444-cropps-web-746559.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_9444-cropps-web-746324.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-12362068203410139122008-09-30T16:35:00.009-05:002008-10-01T09:07:51.790-05:00Exploring Door County by Kayak<a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_4980-cropps-web-783214.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_4980-cropps-web-783183.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Greetings!<br />This fall's visit to Door County was a special one. We "know" the area pretty well now and so decided to do some extensive exploration by kayak.<br /><div><div><div><br /><div>As I grew up on a small island (<a href="http://www.cityislandbirds.com/">http://www.cityislandbirds.com/</a>) and Sheena grew up along the coast of England, Door County is the perfect place to bring back those good memories of spending every day, all day "on the water".<br /></div><br /><br /><div>Here I am making my way to Horseshoe Island from Nicolet Bay. <span style="font-size:78%;">(photo by Sheena John)<br /></span></div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_4063-Edit-web-763986.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_4063-Edit-web-763954.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The official "purpose" of this trip to Door County was to participate in the First Annual Ridges Flea Market. (<a href="http://www.ridgesanctuary.org/">http://www.ridgesanctuary.org/</a>) To help raise funds for this wonderful organizing was gratifying. To clear some stuff out of the garage was gratifying too! Everyone had a fun and successful day.<br /><br /></div><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_5566-web-719910.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 179px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 235px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="235" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_5564ps-web-784265.jpg" width="240" border="0" />Many thanks to M.Lee and a great Organizing Committee!</p><p></p><br /><p align="center">Getting up early on the days following the Flea Market was easy, as this is the view from the adorable and comfortable cottage that we leased from JRVacation Rentals <a href="http://www.jrvacationrentals.com/">http://www.jrvacationrentals.com/</a></p><p align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_4774ps-web-714827.jpg" border="0" /></p></div><p>More of the sunrise could be viewed from Baileys Harbor, less than a mile from the cottage. <img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_5284cropps-web-728449.jpg" border="0" /></p><p></p><div>For me, every step outside has something to do with birds...but aside from glimpses of a few warblers and a pileated woodpecker, most viewed birds were of the seagull variety! Here's a juvenile watching me paddle up to his rock perch.<br /></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_5699-ps-crop-web-722752.jpg" border="0" /><br />I've always wanted to "park" my kayak and go somewhere interesting, and Door County provided many opportunities to do just that. Here we pulled ashore to the Grafitti Building and visited the Francis Hardy Center for the Arts, able to browse the beautiful collection of Farmscape photos by Paul Lurie. <img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_4948-cropps-web-727661.jpg" border="0" /> </div><div>During the week of picture perfect weather, we paddled Egg Harbor, Nicolet Bay, Ephraim and Fish Creek.<br /><br /><p>While back on land, we visited some usual favorites including Cana Island, Whitefish Dunes and Cave Point. We even managed to fit in a production of Sherlock Holmes by the Peninsula Players and a couple of new restaurants including a fabulous creperie called Mr. Helsinki's ! </p><p>So many things couldn't be "fit in" to a short week, but as our delightful cottage neighbor reminded us, "there's always something to come back to" in Door County.</p><p>Take a look at a video taken at Cave Point. Don't get seasick!</p><p><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwb3ZABieS1cCm_BUxvDBth8FzVD2tWxnEf-5e-MlpwMgCCJYZgvj4oQ1GPG9EnXMoWf43orxJa8wuEszoeVg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></p></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-6535639162923555802008-09-08T18:45:00.013-05:002008-09-10T12:08:54.128-05:00Dundee Township Dog Days of Summer<a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_7020cropps2web-732452.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_7020cropps2web-732386.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />A couple of cool, crisp fall nights are bringing the Warblers and other migratory birds our way here in Illinois. However, last week's temperatures were so exceptionally warm that many of us birders planned other activities, expecting little in the way of bird activity this past weekend.<br /><div align="center">My choice was to spend Saturday at Dundee Township's First Annual Dog Days of Summer, an event featuring games, goodies and a grand time for dogs and their owners.<br /><br /><br />Now what am I, a CAT person, doing at a DOG event? Well, PHOTOGRAPHING, of course.... </div><div align="center">...and just enjoying the energy of dog people and their furry friends.</div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">It could not have been a more beautiful day in the idyllic setting of Randall Oaks Park and Farm, with the sun shining and a gentle breeze blowing.</div><br /><br />Many dogs were sporting neckerchiefs provided by Dundee Animal Hospital and<br /><div align="center"><div align="center">Algonquin's ALL PAWS Veterinary Clinic. </div><br /><div align="center">ALL PAWS provided complimentary blood testing, while Dundee Animal Hospital , along with "Home Again", a pet recovery service, sponsored free Microchipping.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_5417croppsweb-706440.jpg" border="0" /> "I had my blood tested..see my pink bandage?!"<br /><br /><br /></div><div align="center">There were dozens of dogs... all shapes, sizes, colors and stages of life. Lots of nose kissing and (other) investigation went on as each new dog entered the park! All of the dogs were very well behaved and having a great time!<br /><br /><br />Representatives from several Rescue groups were on hand to answer questions and pique interest in adoption. REGAP is a national organization for the adoption of Retired Greyhounds, with an active Illinois chapter.<br /><br /></div><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_4062croppsweb-780179.jpg" border="0" /></div><div align="center">'Winston' a lucky Greyhound with a great home!</div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">Certified Canine Massage Therapist Carole Lago (<a href="mailto:carole_lago@att.net">carole_lago@att.net</a>) was busy throughout the day, demonstrating her therapeutic techniques, much to the delight of both canines and their companions. </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_5415croppsweb-774408.jpg" border="0" /></div>...ahhhhhhhhhhhh! <div align="center"></div><br /><br /><br /><div align="center">Whether giving Dog Behavior Tips, demonstrating Pet Tricks, or leading a game of "Musical Sit", Robin from The Pet Squad, ( <a href="http://www.thepetsquad.com/">http://www.thepetsquad.com/</a> ) never had a chance to sit down! </div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_4111psweb-780287.jpg" border="0" /> Robin and "Otto" get ready to do a trick.<br /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_4158croppsweb-710444.jpg" border="0" />Otto gives Robin a "high-five"<br /></div><br /><br /><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_4132croppsweb-709209.jpg" border="0" />A serious student practices the hand-shake.</div><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_4162web-711412.jpg" border="0" />"I'm too short to do a high-five!"<br /><br /><br />A large group gathered to hear Carpentersville police discuss and demo Police Dog work.<br /></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_5439croppsweb-792265.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br />No dog left the party empty-pawwed, as vendors from bakeries such as Felix and Fifi's of Carpentersville, Pet Food stores such as Petpals of Dundee, Groomers including Kathy's Pet Salon in Gilberts (847-428-1701), and Pet Sitting services including Pampered Pets of Dundee, all had treats galore to give away!<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_4188croppsweb-742160.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div align="center">"I can't wait till next year's Dog Days!"</div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-86544346619809603402008-09-04T14:31:00.009-05:002008-10-11T16:40:47.838-05:00Broadening Horizons in the World of NatureSo.... What does a birder do when it's an "in-between-birds" season? Such is summer in Illinois. Oh, backyards will have a few molting cardinals, straggler orioles and lots of plain finches; there might be some interesting Gull activity on the Lakefront; and a paddle down the river will give us looks at plenty of herons, egrets, cormorants and kingfishers, but our walks in the parks and preserves will be almost devoid of exciting birds during July and August. A birder must diversify! <div><div><div><div><br /><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 127px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 178px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="280" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/img_1486crop2-735871.jpg" width="74" border="0" /> An "in-between-seasons" goldfinch ...<br /><br /><div><br />Many birders, and I'm no exception, have discovered other things with wings which will keep them occupied until the Peeps and Warblers flock in during September , and the Migratory ducks begin to make their way a little later on in the Fall. It is then that serious birding resumes!</div><div><br /></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/img_8363croppsweb-780020.jpg" border="0" /> One of the "Peeps" a Greater Yellowlegs<br /><br /><br /><br /><div>Butterflies have long been a natural attraction to birdwatchers and bird photographers. They have many of the same characteristics that draw us to birds...colorful, intricate markings, rather predictable, fascinating to watch, and if you're patient, relatively easy to photograph. They are conveniently in abundance during July and August. </div><div><br /></div><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 131px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 209px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="240" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/img_5913crop2pscorrintweb-739622.jpg" width="131" border="0" /> Painted Lady on Joe Pye Weed<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Dragonflies have caught the attention of some birders the past few years, especially those who enjoy the difficult-to-pronounce scientific names and discerning the subtle distinctions between some of the varieties seen here in Illinois. They call themselves aspiring Odonatologists. </div><div>If you can catch dragonflies in between egg-laying sessions, they are fun to watch posing for photographs. Otherwise they are usually too busy trying to mate to be still enough.<br /><br /></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="155" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_6666cropps-dragonflyweb-1-796540.jpg" width="244" border="0" />A 12-spot Dragonfly<br /></div><div align="center"><br /><div align="left">A big interest this year seems to be BUGS, and in particular the Cicada Killer Wasp. Last year we experienced the 17 year Cicadas onslaught, and this year the Cicada Killer Wasp is taking center stage. I was highly intrigued by this species' life cycle and was fascinated watching their behavior. First the nearly 2" long female Wasp diligently and methodically digs a path and a deep hole in a sandy area. In this case it was on a sand volleyball court! There were dozens of these insects swarming around and working their tunnels and they all seemed oblivious to my presence.<br />Next the Wasp finds her cicada prey, stings it to kill it, and then brings it to the nest. The process of entangling her legs into the dead cicada's body to straddle it so she can "carry" it, is just fascinating. The Wasp drags the cicada uphill and then drops it into the 6-10" deep hole. According to research, the Wasp lays her egg on the Cicada, then the larvae over-winters in the nest, sustained by the Cicada and emerges the following summer.<br />A more complete synopsis of the life cycle of the Cicada Killer Wasp can be found here:</div><div><a href="http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2078A.html">http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/2000/2078A.html</a><br /><br /><br />Here are some photographs of the Cicada Killer Wasp in action on the </div><div></div><div>volleyball court in So. Barrington, IL</div><div></div><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_3819croppsweb-723569.jpg" border="0" /> Here the Cicada Killer Wasp digging it's nest hole by burrowing down and then kicking sand back, repeatedly. I watched one do this for about 15 minutes before it flew off.<br /><br /><br /><div></div><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_3851croppsweb-758523.jpg" border="0" />Here a Cicada Killer Wasp is attempting to straddle the cicada's underside. This takes some time, as she actually weaves her legs thru the body of the cicada. It was fascinating to watch this part in particular. Look closely, she seems to be grimacing.</div><div></div><br /><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_3872croppsweb-710371.jpg" border="0" />Now firmly attached to the cicada, she starts the climb up the sand mound which leads to the path toward her nest<br /></div></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_3862croppsweb-709410.jpg" border="0" />Climbing (and hoisting) higher...</div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="320" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_3873croppsweb-731223.jpg" width="240" border="0" />...and higher<br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_3579cropps2web-762693.jpg" border="0" />And finally she flies out of the nest, having dropped the Cicada in!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div align="center">A new generation of bugs will emerge next July-August!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-36160513420595901292008-08-19T16:12:00.004-05:002008-08-19T16:37:17.169-05:00Fox River, Algonquin, ILI went out on a Kingfisher mission last evening. I'm lucky that I can "put in" my kayak in front of my house. Getting back upstream is not as easy, but is do-able this time of year.<br /><div>The kingfishers are noisy right now...mating perhaps. and feeding, for sure! It was fun to watch them dive and swoop up with a catch, tho I admit I'm not quite coordinated enough to keep the boat still and capture that kind of shot. </div><br /><div></div><div></div><div>There are a few peeps around, mostly kildeer and solitary sandpipers. At times I've seen more exotic species along this little stretch between Algonquin and Carpentersville. Here is a Solitary.</div><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_1833cropps-web-710576.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_1833cropps-web-710542.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />There are many egrets around. I've seen as many as 8 at once up in a tree. They are more relaxed than the great blue herons are. This egret stood around for a good while, posing.</div><br /><div></div><div><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_1955cropps-web-782355.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_1955cropps-web-782323.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div> </div><div> The little green herons are cute. This young one was flitting log to log, looking for the best meal. </div><div> </div><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_5346cropps-750349.jpg" border="0" /></div><div> </div><div>I'm thinking a pair of waders and some camo might allow me to get closer (and hold the camera more steady) to view the kingfisher. Hmm, the thought of wading in the Fox isn't that appealing afterall. I'll just wait for a less windy day and get back in the boat. :)</div><div><br /> </div><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_1642croppstight-754974.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_1642croppstight-754944.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div></div></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-29140688202777606312008-08-08T11:15:00.003-05:002008-08-12T22:29:44.365-05:00Sandhill Crane Family Update<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Well actually this is a different family, one from McHenry Dam, a few miles west of Volo, but the chick here probably hatched about the same time as the other little one. They grow about an inch a day. In this photo he's huddling with the parents, but it wasn't long before he took off into the tall grass on his own, and the parents didn't seem to mind at all.</span><br /><div><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"></span></div><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_0914croppsweb2-739629.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_0914croppsweb2-739582.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><div>I stopped at Moraine Hills on the way back, and found this little guy. Cute, isn't he?</div><br /><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_9180cropps2web-771244.jpg" border="0" />Find more recent sightings on Flickr <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/quietnature">www.flickr.com/photos/quietnature</a><br /><div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.artnowforautism.com/"><img height="84" alt="art now for autism" src="http://www.artnowforautism.com/images/artnow_sm.gif" width="150" border="0" /></a></div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-90093637333133208452008-07-28T10:21:00.005-05:002008-07-29T15:19:08.873-05:00Late Summer Wanderings<div>Lake Michigan, Montrose Harbor, Chicago</div><br /><br /><div><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_9806croppsweb-777003.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_9806croppsweb-776932.jpg" border="0" /></a> </div><br /><br /><br /><div>Dragonfly at Glacial Park, Ringwood, IL<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_8841croppsweb-792190.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>Volo Bog Nature Center, view from parking lot</div></div><br /><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_6358croppsweb-701057.jpg" border="0" /></p><br /><p></p><br /><br /><p>There is not much bird activity this time of year, however I'd be remiss to not mention Dotty, who is visiting for the summer!</p><br /><p></p><br /><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="319" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_6372croppsweb-772776.jpg" width="214" border="0" /></p><br /><div></div>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-36651175994100255532008-07-12T07:42:00.009-05:002008-07-17T11:30:27.637-05:00SANDHILL CRANES at VOLO BOGThis summer, my main focus has been on the resident Sandhill Cranes of Volo Bog. One of the nice things about Volo is that even if you just have a few minutes to spare, you can walk the 1/4 mile boardwalk area and see a wide variety of subjects including rare plants and flowers, dragonflies, frogs, muskrats, birds and more. The pair of Sandhills that reside here until they head south for the winter have been easy to spot this year, perhaps that because of the heavy rains they are spending more time in the grassy areas of Volo.<br /><div> </div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div>Here is the chick at a very young age. Return to this blog for updated photos as the summer progresses. I have read that they grow about an inch a day.<br /><br /></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_7697croppscrop-724503.jpg" border="0" /><br />And here is family meal time. </div><div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_7697croppsweb-730213.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div></div><div> </div><div>Here they are heading down to the water's edge, perhaps where the nest is.</div><div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_7758croppsweb-779623.jpg" border="0" /></div><div> </div><div>Other treats at Volo this time of year include a variety of dragonflies, predominently the blue dasher.</div><div><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_0296ps2sfinal-dasherscrsvr-765202.jpg" border="0" /></div><div> </div><div>And looking ahead to the late summer, watch for the Muskrats at Volo Bog. Here they are feeding on duck weed.</div><div><br /><br /></div><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 409px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="211" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/img_6392cropPS-737388.jpg" width="360" border="0" /></p><div>And of course there are always beautiful flowers at Volo.<br /><br /><br /></div><p></p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_8375psweb-785131.jpg" border="0" /> And you'll hear, if not see, frogs.<br /><br /><br /><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/IMG_6495croppsweb-751861.jpg" border="0" /> </p><p>As a State Natural Area, Volo Bog is directly affected by the Illinois DNR budget. Please see the message below, and what you can do to help protect areas such as Volo.</p><p>"As a member of Partners for Parks and Wildlife, Prairie Rivers Network has been working to prevent funding cuts at the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). On July 9th, Governor Blagojevich cut $14 million from the IDNR’s budget, cutting 20% from a budget that has lost a quarter of its staff to budget cuts since 2001. This comes at a time when our parks, forests, lakes and streams continue to experience increases in attendance. The cuts are set to take effect unless the Illinois Senate and House both vote to override them by July 25th. It is imperative that Illinois’ natural resources do not suffer a disproportionate share of cuts. PPW calls on the State of Illinois to retain the current funding levels for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR SENATOR AND REPRESENTATIVE TODAY! "<br /></p><p></p>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-62942016386933556182008-06-18T18:34:00.002-05:002008-06-18T19:21:44.951-05:00Working FarmsIn preparation for next week's fundraiser for Garfield Farm Park, a working farm in Illinois, I spent some time photographing there, as well as nearby Peck Farm Park, today.<br /><div><br /><br /><div>Peck Farm is owned by the Geneva Park District and is very well maintained as the former owners desired it to be: a preserve of the native and agricultural landscape of Illinois and an open space amenity for area residents. The existing farm buildings have been converted into new uses, from administrative offices to interpretive and multimedia education areas. A popular highlight for me is the open air Butterfly Exhibit. Today's volunteers Chuck and Susan were extremely supportive and helpful to the visitors. </div><br /><br /><div>I had good looks at Southern Whites and a new one for me, a Polydamas Swallowtail, a native of Florida.<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_5642croppsweb-712927.jpg" border="0" /></div></div><p></p><p>Next, I made a visit to Garfield Farm Park, which is much more rustic and historical in nature. I had to search for the sheep but finally found them grazing outside of the main house. As patient as I was, only one was willing to pick her head up from the field... isn't she cute!!</p><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_5765cropps2web-710575.jpg" border="0" /></p><br />If you live anywhere nearby, please stop out to Mongerson Farm, just east of Garfield Farm on Rt 38, 3 miles west of Randall for the Antique and Arts Festival on June 28 and 29!Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-18383947443647149562008-06-16T08:34:00.003-05:002008-06-16T09:05:17.953-05:00The Ridges Sanctuary, Door County WI<a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/Card-packet-butterfly-4-assortment-insert-Ridges-08-797084.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/Card-packet-butterfly-4-assortment-insert-Ridges-08-797079.jpg" border="0" /></a> Here is one of several packets of cards now available at the Ridges Sanctuary (<a href="http://www.ridgesanctuary.org/">http://www.ridgesanctuary.org/</a>) in Door County, WI. I am very excited to have some of my work accepted in this prestigious location.<br /><br /><br /><br />If you have an interest in biodiversity and rare species of all kinds, please visit the website to learn more. Be inspired by reading their 5 year Strategic plan. What a knowledgable and dedicated Board and volunteer base this organization has!<br /><br /><br /><br />Every inch of Door County is beautiful to me, but the Ridges is one of those places I find myself going back to so often because it changes literally every day. If you visit Door County, don't miss a visit to the Ridges.Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-11684955657779540142008-06-08T21:13:00.000-05:002008-06-08T21:27:17.056-05:00Nesting Warblers<div align="center"><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_5355croppsweb-764748.jpg"><img style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/_MG_5355croppsweb-764709.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><br />I missed alot of the warbler activity this year, and it was a slow year at that, due mostly to the crazy weather we have been having. When the rain cleared today, I did a little birding along Lake Defiance path at Moraine Hills in McHenry and spent alot of time watching Mama Yellow Warbler gather food for ??young ones?? Pop was seen, but only in the backround, while Mama was very willing to come up front and show me her caterpillar.Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7337582419962751555.post-22113316381327518902008-06-05T11:07:00.000-05:002008-06-05T11:57:39.107-05:00Show Time !<a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/banner-swirl3[1]-773769.jpg"><img style="CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/banner-swirl3[1]-773740.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>SOLO EXHIBITION </div><div><br />ARBOR VITAE JAVA & JUICE CAFE</div><div></div><div>NAPERVILLE, IL</div><div><br /></div><p>THRU JULY 31, 2008</p><div>SPONSORED BY THE NAPERVILLE ART LEAGUE </div><div><br /> </div><div></div><div>Nature is my passion and photography is one way to share that passion with others. I'm excited to present a collection of photographs in the Arbor Vitae Java and Juice Cafe' as a member of the Naperville Art League. <a href="http://www.napervilleartleague.com/">http://www.napervilleartleague.com/</a></div><div><br /></div><p>This show will run from June 6th thru July 31st.</p><div>The Cafe' is located in the back part of the Northern Illinois University Naperville Campus. <a href="http://www.java-juice/">http://www.java-juice/</a> for info and directions. Or call Java & Juice at 630-577-9090</div><div><br /></div><p>Try the smoothies, made from real fruit-not a bottle of concentrate! I hear the coffee is excellent too.</p><div><br /><br /><br /><br /></div><div>~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~<br /></div><div></div><div></div><div align="left">VISIT MY BOOTH !<br /><a href="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/garfield_square[1]-710148.jpg"><img style="CURSOR: hand" height="224" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/garfield_square[1]-710129.jpg" width="182" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>SATURDAY JUNE 28 and SUNDAY JUNE 29</div><div><br /></div><div></div><div>10 am till 5 pm </div><div><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>This is a fundraiser to support the continuing effort to preserve this wonderful unspoiled farm and it's land. Exhibitors will include artists and craftsmen working in soapmaking, broom making, woodworking, pottery, painting, folk art, photography, garden art, jewelry, fiber arts and more.</div><div></div><div>The farm is located on Route 38 in La Fox, Illinois, just a few miles west of Geneva.<br />Enjoy a day in the country and help support the Farm!</div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.quietnature.com/blog/uploaded_images/garfieldmap[1]-768761.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Claire Dassyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11363417317496498591noreply@blogger.com