Spring Comes to Glen Lake

Up at Glen Lake, Michigan there is some hope that The Winter that Never Ends maybe finally over. The  Memorial Day weekend weather was pleasant. Some brave souls did venture into the lake, but most chose to merely enjoy the views and breathe in the marvelously clean air. Here are some signs of spring photos.

The Honesty plant is in full bloom. 

The geraniums have been potted by the shed door.

No one remembers the maple tree seedlings ever being this plentiful. They are covering all the lawns.

Lily of the valley nestled in the base of a maple tree are just about to bloom.

The native trillium are in full bloom. 

A pileated woodpecker has left evidence of his winter labors on this cedar tree.

Glen Lake looking east toward the Narrows Bridge.

Glen Lake looking toward Sleeping Bear Dunes.

A Sunday Afternoon at the Jacksonville Zoo

My cousin Heather and I spent a delightful Sunday afternoon at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. It's well designed and has a nice mix of animals. I found the Florida animal section to be very informative. It's located north of Jacksonville on the banks of the Trout River. I would go again.

This guy was strutting his stuff in the African section.

I always love watching the elephants but I didn't see any younger ones.

Visitors are able to feed the giraffes leaves. This guy was very happy to participate.

This mom was getting her meal the old fashion way.

This gator was about 8 feet long.

The enclosed aviary had an abundance of interesting birds including the colorful ibis.

There was a large goat pen where kids of all ages could brush the goats' coats.

The Japanese Tea Garden was serenely beautiful.

The netted enclosed butterfly pavillion provided an opportunity to experience a variety of colorful butterflies fluttering all around you.

We saw 4 tigers roaming about in their new enclosure.

Empire Beach - Brisk but Beautiful

What a difference 4 weeks make - especially at the Empire, Michigan Beach.  Four weeks ago Lake Michigan was still frozen and the record snowfall was still coming down. Today, the temp was in the 50's and folks were enjoying brisk walks along the shore. I love the contrasts of this area almost as much as I love the pure sweet air. Here are some photos - 

Empire Beach - May 4, 2014 - looking north to Sleeping Bear Point.

Empire Bluffs - May 4, 2014 - watching para-sail landing. He avoided getting wet.

Empire Beach - April 5, 2014 - looking northward to Sleeping Bear and South Manitou Island.

Empire Bluffs - April 5, 2014

Empire Beach - May 4, 2014 - looking northward - no more snow, just beautiful waves.