Mother Earth Mender

Eureka is searching for his furever home

2011-09-20T15:06:00.003-05:00

Eureka (aka Rico) is waiting patiently for his forever home. He is about 16 weeks old, is crated trained and is doing well with his house training. He is current on his vaccinations, neutered and microchipped. To view his complete profile and learn more about how you can adopt him, please visit www.helpingthehelplesspets.com.

Walnut Street Theatre class final song performance

2010-12-13T21:47:00.002-05:00

Collegium Charter School presents...........

2009-06-21T10:15:00.006-05:00

MEGAN!!!!

Performing a Green Day song...

The CCS Scatters! Great job girls!

Tree Tenders Training

2009-04-02T09:08:00.001-05:00

Tree Tenders Training

Sign up now!
(Student’s, staff, faculty, Borough & Township residents)
Learn to plant & care for trees
9 hours of free training

April 7, 14, 21 (6-9PM)
113 Boucher Hall
Sponsored by the PA Horticulture Society and WCU
To register http://www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.org
& choose “sign up for Free Tree Tenders Training
Contact: Gerry Hertel; 610-436-2722; ghertel@wcupa.edu
(WCU sponsors: Grounds; Environmental Council; Gordon Natural Area)

Which Quercus?

2009-03-31T05:43:00.005-05:00

I can usually identify the white oaks from the black oaks, but sometimes it gets a little more difficult beyond that! My guess for this tree, Pin Oak (Quercus palustris). Oak trees are definitely one of my favorites. Not only is the mature tree simply one of the most stately, it is absolutely one of the most beneficial trees to wildlife; in the northeast US. The acorns provide such a wonderful food source for critters and the caterpillars really love to munch on the leaves.

Have you planted an oak tree lately?

Buff what?

2009-03-24T06:16:00.002-05:00

How many ponds or streams do you drive by each day?

How many of these bodies of water are bordered by neatly cut grass?

What is the diversity of wildlife around these bodies of water?

Riparian buffers: Riparian buffers are the areas adjacent to water sources which act to protect the water from nonpoint source pollution and provide bank stabilization and aquatic and wildlife habitat. This area differs from the uplands because of moisture levels, soil composition and the unique plant communities that exisit there.

As studies have indicated, riparian buffers can reduce the amount of sediment, nutrients, and other contaminants that enter surface waters. However, the studies also suggest that these effects vary from one riparian area to another. The degree to which the riparian buffer protects water quality is a function of the area's hydrology, soils, and vegetation.

By ignoring the importance of riparian buffers, we will reduce water quality values, reduce wildlife and fish populations, cause serious property damage (bank erosion) and loss of valuable agricultural lands. If the land surrounding our waterways is void of riparian vegetation, we will also see an increase in water temperatures and decrease in dissolved oxygen. The loss of shade exposes soils to drying out by wind and sunlight and reduces the water storage capacity of the riparian area, all of which will eventually cause streambank erosion. Eroding banks contribute to sedimentation and lead to a wide shallow stream with little habitat value.

Riparian buffers are most effective at improving water quality when they include a native grass or herbaceous filter strip along with deep rooted trees and shrubs along the stream. Riparian buffers should range from 25 to 100 feet wide on each side of the stream. Not only will this improve the water quality, but it will also increase the diversity of wildlife that can survive and thrive in this healthy habitat as opposed to the monoculture of turf grass surrounding so many ponds which only attract the Canadian geese!

Sources:

bae.ncsu.edu, soil.ncsu.edu, ext.vt.edu

A Visit to Nottingham

2009-03-20T13:10:00.008-05:00

I am referring to Nottingham County Park. Having never visited this park previously, I decided to take some time prior to presenting a wildlife habitat lecture to simply get out and take a stroll. Wouldn't you agree that these last minute decisions to allow yourself to get sidetracked by nature are really the best times to find new treasures??

For anyone who may be in more remote locations of this planet (meaning rural areas such as Switzerland....like Jerome), I'm sure my pictures just cannot compare to your views, but I can tell you that this was a nice escape for a few hours from the traffic and dense human populations. It was a very lovely afternoon.

To give you some background information on the park itself. Nottingham Park is a 651 acre park which "sits atop an out-cropping of serpentine stone greater than one square mile in size; one of the largest serpentine barrens on the East Coast." You can visit this link to learn even more: h ttp://www.nature.org/wherewework /northamerica/states/pennsylvania/preserves/art812.html

They Are Here

2009-03-18T05:56:00.003-05:00

My native trees and shrubs which I ordered about a month ago are here! Is anyone else ready for some digging?

In fact, by the time I took this picture, I had already planted the three Sycamore trees. Immediately following the photo shoot, eight more were planted, so I only have the three Sweet Gums left to get in the ground.

I LOVE this time of year. There's a lot of work involved, but the end result (there really isn't ever an end) is so rewarding!

Oh Dear!

2009-03-14T08:36:00.008-05:00

No matter the type of gardening that interest you, setbacks can be frustrating. Especially if you cannot figure out the cause or you simply cannot figure out a solution. How many of you have personally struggled with the setbacks that are caused by little guys on the right?
a

They're cute; right? I can tell you, here in SE PA, the topic of deer management is highly debated! I love wildlife, but I also love my native plants, which play a key role in healthy, sustainable habitats.

As quoted in the PA State Forests --- Deer Management --- A Plan for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, "the primary factor threatening the sustainability of these forests is overbrowsing of vegetation by white-tailed deer." Without a method of control, we have the potential of losing our forests. As old growth foresets die, there will not be any new growth there to take its place!

Reducing the level of deer herd would obviously be beneficial, but how do we do this in a manner that is acceptable to the public? The neighbors who live within proximity of Valley Forge Park have taken great measures to build up fence barricades around their foundation plantings, some even include electric fencing. Is this any way to live?

I am fortunate. I currently do not have deer issues (knocking on wood as I type this) but this is a question that we at Habitat Resource Network of SE PA are asked at almost every training session that we host. People want to learn more about native plants and they want to make a positive difference, but the deer are destroying their investment.

Mushpaugh Sportsman's Club in the Poconos

I still think this little fella is cute!

Sialia sialis

2009-03-09T05:57:00.008-05:00

I'm just now in the beginning stages of learning about the birds that visit my propery, but there is one that never required any research to figure out what it was......the Eastern Bluebird! Because our yard is "young" with very few mature trees, a large fence for perching, the bluebirds are everywhere.
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We had tremendous success with our first bluebird box last year, so we decided to add two more this year. Placing them far enough apart on our one acre is a challenge since we are also trying to avoid putting them in the backyard where the dogs roam. The Shar-pei mix has been known to catch birds mid-flight, so I actually don't even plant too many bushes that will be real bird attracters in the back either.

Saturday evening, around 6:30, my husband and I finally got the hole dug and the post in the ground for the second box. I placed it at the border of my butterfly garden. In less than 24 hours, we witnessed a bluebird entering the box!! I'm so excited that Spring is just around the corner!

Sialia sialis - Once nearly eliminated from PA due to a lack of nest cavities, bluebirds have made a remarkable comeback with the aid of bird enthusiasts who have put out thousands of bluebird nest boxes.......this is why the boxes are so important, but maintenance and monitoring for predators is key to success!

A Little Humor for a Friday

2009-03-06T15:25:00.003-05:00

Considering the economic woes, I thought I would share this cute cartoon from a recent edition of the Philadelphia Inquirer.

The morning after...

2009-03-03T19:41:00.005-05:00

the snow, that is!

Panicum virgatum (switchgrass) with a Clethra alnifolia (sweet pepperbush) peeking from behind.

Ok, so I may complain about the cold, but you just can't beat a beautiful blanket of white in the dead of winter (or near the end of winter; I hope....). We didn't get near the amount they were predicting, but we received enough to make it worthwhile.

From the parking lot of the building where I work.

This Evening's Forecast...

2009-03-01T15:12:00.003-05:00

Snow is beautiful! It covers over the dark browns and grays of winter in Pennsylvania. But I am so over it already this year! In less than 14 days, my trees are due to be delivered from the local native plant wholesaler but the weatherman is telling us that we are expecting a big snow this evening.

Caterpillars

2009-02-25T07:13:00.004-05:00

I am fascinated by the caterpillars that show up in my gardens and on my plants, but I am certainly not an expert (maybe an expert in training!). Usually, it is not that difficult to find them either if you simply look for some leaf damage.

One thing that I have noticed and now promote, is the fact that the more native plants (numbers and diversity) that I plant on my property, the more wildlife that shows up, including the caterpillars. Every year I find new ones that I've never seen before.

Last summer, I bought a better camera; not great, but better, so that I can capture images of these amazing little creatures. Also, my father knows a gentleman by the name of David L. Wagner, author of the book "Caterpillars of Eastern North America" so he obtained this book for me, which is now carried during my regular walks through the yard, and it is full of tags to identify the caterpillars which I have identified.

Below is only one of many caterpillars that I discovered in my trees last year.

Saddleback Caterpillar - Acharia stimulea

The saddleback is a generalist in terms of plant food choices. Can anyone recognize the tree he is on? Please advise if you even think you know!

The sting from this caterpillar may be the most potent of all caterpilars in North America.

A Visit to the City

2009-02-23T07:10:00.003-05:00

Last week I was asked to attend a meeting in Philadelphia for a couple of days. Though the city is relatively close, it is like night and day when compared to where I live. The first thing I did when I got to my room, was look out my window at the view. The buildings are amazing, but there was something definitely missing (as is the case in most cities).

The green! Now, I understand that it is winter; still snowing off and on, but it makes me appreciate the trees. The city life has a certain appeal, but not enough without the trees. Even the concept of "rock climbing" is different in the city. This was more fun than I expected!!

One of the first things I did when I got home, was to take the dogs and Snoopy for a walk at Hibernia Park. I never saw the woodpecker that was drumming away on a nearby tree, but the sound alone was worth the trip, especially compared to the sounds of sirens and traffic in the city!

By the way, Snoopy is a cat :) It's great to be home.

Visiting Valley Forge

2009-02-16T06:49:00.004-05:00

We do not prepare our own taxes, though once our accountant fee equals or is more than our refund, we might have to figure it out for ourselves! But at least this yearly visit forces us to drive through Valley Forge National Historical Park. This time, we decided that after we were done making our annual tax sacrifice we would do some sightseeing within the park in order to gain an appreciation for the sacrifices by the men so many years ago fighting for our freedoms.

It was very late in the day and the skies were gray, but the shots are still worth sharing:

It was worth the time and drive!

Picking My Natives for 2009

2009-02-10T22:24:00.003-05:00

Each spring I purchase native plant plugs via a Wild Ones member group purchase, which is ordered through a local wholesaler. So, as I do each year, I sat down to determine where I need to add more plants, and figure out how many I can purchase within my budget. I was pleased with myself since it didn't take me nearly as long this go around as it usually does.

Last week I proudly ordered the following:

Liquid. styraciflua - Sweet gum
Ilex verticillata - Winterberry holly
Hammamelis virginiana - Witchhazel
Plantanus Occidentalis - American sycamore
Oenothera fruticosa - Narrow leaved sundrops
Penstemon digitalis - Beardtongue
Osmunda cinnamomea - Cinnamon fern
Sorghastrum nutans - Indiangrass

Then, this past Sunday, I had the pleasure of attending my second presentation given by Dr. Doug Tallamy on the importance of native plants vs. alien species. This reminded me of "the list" of plants that he has published which clearly shows, based upon his research, that native insects prefer native plants. The more insects in our gardens, the more birds (or other wildlife) we have in our gardens.

While I very happy that I picked plants that are pretty much within the top 60, I really wish I would have picked more from, lets say, the top 10! Next year, it's all top 10!

Visit the link below, to learn more about how the plants we choose impact biodiversity!

http://copland.udel.edu/~dtallamy/host/index.html

Basics of Native Plants

2009-02-07T12:13:00.003-05:00

I stumbled across this information on the PA DCNR (Dept of Conservation and Natural Resources) website and thought that the information is definitely worth sharing. As we begin to head towards the warmer seasons and soon tending our gardens again (does that ever really stop?), we should all give consideration to the plants that we are choosing as well as our gardening techniques.

"Go Native" with these 6 basics

1. Protect native plant communities and minimize habitat destruction
The most important guideline is to conserve already existing areas of native vegetation as a whole, functioning unit. The easiest, least expensive, and best way to conserve Pennsylvania's plant heritage is to protect existing native plant communities from further disturbance. If disturbance is necessary, strive for minimum habitat destruction. In some cases ecological restoration may be necessary, which can include planting native species, removing invasive introduced species, controlling erosion and loosening soil compaction.

2. Landscape with native plants
Native plant communities have been destroyed in many areas and therefore landscaping is required; parks, yards, streets, and campuses, for example. Well-chosen native plants perform well in these landscapes. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)-Bureau of Forestry (BOF) recommends avoiding rare, endangered, and threatened plants and instead choosing native plant species which grow commonly throughout the state. These hardy and adaptable plants do well in a wide variety of conditions and have a much better chance of success in gardens. If you do not want all natives, plant adapted introduced plants suited for the site, colorful annuals, or flowering plants that will not escape and become environmental weeds.

3. Learn more about native plants
Learn what plants are native in your area. The Resources Page lists just a few of the resources for this region, but there are many more. Many field guides can get you started.

4. Buy nursery-propagated native plants
Most retail nurseries and mail-order catalogs now offer native plants. The more consumers request native plants, the more this supply will grow. If you want guaranteed ornamental characteristics, cultivars (named varieties) are available in some cases; for instance, New England Aster has a cultivar named 'Purple Dome', which was selected for shorter height and showier flowers. Cultivars should be predictable in attributes like height, color, blooming period, or absence of seed pods/thorns--qualities many gardeners want. If your goal is genetic diversity, however, ask for straight species, not cultivars, grown from local seed sources. Plants grown from seed have much more variety than cloned cultivars.

5. Do not remove native plants from the wild
Taking native plants from the wild depletes native populations. Also, many wild-collected plants do not survive transplanting. Prevent wild-collecting of plants by making sure that plants you buy are propagated at a nursery, or by starting plants yourself from a local seed supply (Collect seed only with the property owner's permission). Ask the DCNR-BOF for a list of native plant and seed sources in Pennsylvania.

6. Practice responsible landscaping techniques
The first rule of responsible landscaping is to plant the right plants in the right environment: never introduce invasive plants to your landscape that will aggressively spread off your property and invade native plant communities. They can drastically alter ecosystems and give you and your neighbors maintenance headaches for years to come. Ask the DCNR-BOF for the brochure "Invasive Plants in Pennsylvania." When landscaping with native plants it is important to choose plants that will grow well at the site: wet or dry, shade or sun, acid or neutral soil. A good trick is to notice which native plants are thriving nearby, and to use those clues to guide plant selection. Other information can be found from plant nurseries, catalogs, books, or the Internet. For soil fertility, compost and mulch of leaves or grass clippings provide slow release nutrients. Chemical fertilizers often provide too many nutrients too quickly for native plants, and this flush of nutrients gives weeds a competitive edge. Proper site preparation begins with a soil test before applying fertilizer. Try organic pest control. Keep the soil covered to prevent weeds. Remove invasive plants nearby. Take out severely diseased plants, or ones with insect infestations. Many native plants attract beneficial insects which help control pests, so try creating habitat for "good bugs."

http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/wildplant/sixbasics.aspx

Leisure

2009-02-01T12:10:00.003-05:00

What is this life if, full of care,

We have no time to stand and stare.

No time to stand beneath the boughs

And stare as long as sheep or cows.

No time to see, when woods we pass,

Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.

No time to see, in broad daylight,

Streams full of stars, like skies at night.

No time to turn at Beauty's glance,

And watch her feet, how they can dance.

No time to wait till her mouth can

Enrich that smile her eyes began.

A poor life this if, full of care,

We have no time to stand and stare.

~ William Henry Davies

It's Just a Little Ice

2009-01-30T07:03:00.003-05:00

No wonder my dogs are a bit hesitant about going outside these days. This is the back deck! Half of which is falling from above, off the roof. It's a big dangerous world out there to them, but so amazing all at the same time. Even as a nature lover, it blows my mind to consider how life continues each day below frigid masses of snow/ice. Organisms surviving and thriving. From my window it appears cold and barren but the reality is, it is full of life!

Finally got a picture!

2009-01-29T13:55:00.002-05:00

Due to schools opening late this morning, I knew traffic would be a bit lighter than normal, so I took my camera as I ran out the door. As soon as I spotted him, I pulled over on the highway, waited for the cars to fly by (singing the Jetsons theme song here) and then took the shot from across the road. Unfortunately, despite how pleased I am with my little camera, the zoom feature simply isn't good enough for these situations. Regardless, I snapped the picture. I am happy!

Despite my preference...

2009-01-27T06:50:00.005-05:00

of warmer days, there are a few things that I enjoy about winter. I love it when the the snow finally arrives and covers the ground in a soft blanket of white, enhancing the grays of the season. I smile each morning on my way to work when I pass the resident hawk at the off ramp of the by-pass, as he sits in the naked trees, waiting for movement in the grasses below (I've yet to get a good picture as he flies off as soon as I stop my car and I can only attempt this when there is minimal traffic).

But this time of year also helps me to appreciate the forest more. The bareness of branches opens up the view, allowing us to glimpse in without ever needed to step foot. Enticing us to come closer and get a better look. Giving us the sneak peak at it's beauty so that we will come back over and over again, no matter which season.

And for the native plant people of this world, the winter months can also give us a clearer picture of the impact that invasive plants is having on the natve plant populations. It amazes me how much easier it is to see the invasive vines stretching out and up the tree trunks! I guess that reminds me of the work that is soon to come in Spring!

All in all, I may not like the cold, but that doesn't stop me from thinking it's beautiful.

Hibernia County Park

2009-01-26T07:19:00.004-05:00

A few brief pictures of Chambers Lake, where my family likes to throw the kayaks in the water for a quick break from the stresses of everyday life. It looks so different this time of year. Rumor has it that an eagle has been frequenting the lake here lately!

A New Era

2009-01-21T20:46:00.003-05:00

I don't think it would be incorrect to say that I am sometimes blind to what's going on right in front of me. I can see the general picture, but may be lacking the details. Perhaps it's my desire to be aware of everything, unable to fully soak it all in. Perhaps there are times I simply lack the knowledge to grasp certain concepts, which may require more time spent researching to learn.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not opposed to learning, but with knowledge comes power. With power, comes responsibility. Wait!!! I don't want anymore responsibilities! I'll stick with what I know. I'll leave the power to Obama for now, and I will hope that he can bring about the changes that he so eloquently speaks of during his speeches.

I am not a political person by any stretch of the word but as a self-proclaimed environmentalist (the treehugger type), I welcome changes that will provide substantial positive outcomes for our earth. As I once read on a bumper sticker, "Less Bush's, more trees!"

Well, I've got to get back to reading your blogs, so TTFN. And by the way, my learning comments are a joke, while my responsibilities comment, is not.

2009 Habitat To-Do List: Item #1

2009-01-15T16:38:00.003-05:00

It never fails that when this time of year approaches, my mind starts kicking into gear and my thoughts turn towards my outdoor habitat, not garden/s, as I am trying to steer away from the typical method of planned garden beds. My current goal is to turn my entire yard into one continous acre of lush, sustainable habitat.

My objective: take what is already existing, and continue to incorporate large quantities of native plant materials, slowly expanding each garden/bed until they all eventually meet and have become one; one with nature.
My deadline: 15 years from this coming summer, so please be sure to check back in October 2024 and I will provide a full array of before and after pictures :)

My approach is one that I may eventually regret. I seek the most assertive native plants that I can find, such as sumacs, goldenrods, ironweed, common milkweed, aspens, tulip trees, from local native garden providers; Yellow Springs Farm, Redbud Nursery, and Octorara Native Plant Nursery to name a few. My hope is that they will out-compete the non-native turf grasses or at least put up a good fight. I then come in and add plenty of "neighbor collected" leaf litter (I love seeing those leaf bags at the end of most driveways in the Fall) to assist my little seedlings/saplings by choking out even more grass.

Unfortunately, as you can see from the picture, I am not offering free advertising on my property for the Home Depot, but instead I simply never completed last year's chores. #1 on my 2009 To-Do list, empty leaf bags!

ps - I would like to thank the neighbors who do so much work raking just so I can pick them up and throw them all over my yard. I guess someone forgot to tell you about the benefits of a decomposing leaf! Sadly, I will keep that information to myself until such time that my trees are producing all of the leaves that I need…..just kidding.

Spring Fever

2009-01-14T13:18:00.004-05:00

Is anyone else having Spring fever?

The official Wikipedia definition: a term describing common psychological symptoms occurring in the Spring season.

Can we ever really call information from Wikipedia official? Who cares, it's a great web resource. I guess I don't need to worry that I'm having these symptoms and it's not even the middle of January yet AND it's supposed to be a high of 20 degrees F tomorrow!

Don't get me wrong, I think there are aspects of Winter that are wonderful and beautiful, but right now, I'd rather be admiring it as a mere memory.

Support Public Education in Chester County

2008-12-05T13:09:00.002-05:00

My daughter is an eighth grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, PA. With the support of her school and teachers, she has decided to begin the Backpacks for Back-2-School program at her school. This program is intended to help financially disadvantaged students at the school by providing them with many of the school supplies which are required at the start of the school year. By doing this, it reduces the stress caused by such expenses and allows their families to continue to focus on more critical needs, such as food, medical expenses, etc.

Ultimately, her goal is to provide backpacks to all students who are currently on the Free/Reduced Meal program, which is based upon their family income. To get started though, she would like to acquire a minimum of fifteen backpacks, and within each backpack will include pencils, pens, crayons, scissors, rulers, glue, notebooks, paper, and folders. Her estimated budget to fill fifteen backpacks is between $605-735. Thus, she needs your support!

It would be greatly appreciated if you would consider being a donor by purchasing at least one of the following and sending it to the school:

15 Backpacks
15 pks of Pencils
15 pks of Pens
15 Rulers
15 boxes of Crayons
15 prs of Scissors
30-45 Notebooks
30 pks of Paper
60-90 Folders
15 bottles of Glue

As a donor, you benefit in these ways:

1) Your donations are tax-deductible.
2) Your donations benefit local public education.
3) With donations of $100 & over or ten backpacks, your sponsorship and support will be advertised throughout the school and will be noted within all public press releases relating to the success of this program.

When considering your support, please remember that the proceeds benefit children. Your donation(s) may be sent directly to the school at Attn: Backpacks for Back-2-School, c/o Collegium Charter School, 535 James Hance Court, Exton, PA 19341. If you choose to make a monetary donation, please make the check payable to: Collegium Charter School, noting “Backpacks” on the memo line.

Thank you for your consideration and generosity in supporting this very important program.

I'm Back!

2008-10-24T12:30:00.003-05:00

Lindau, Germany

Long time, no post, but who can really blame me; right? When I'm on vacation, I mean it, and that includes blog postings, emails, phone calls, etc. Of course, I've been back in the states for almost two weeks now, but it's taken this long just to get caught up with everything. No, I'm not totally caught up, but since I wasn't "caught up" before I ever left, I don't expect anything to change now.

My beauty and her best friend

on the way to Oktoberfest

During our vacation, we visited Munich Germany, Strasbourg France, Liestal Switzerland, and Uberlingen Germany, plus many little day trips in between. We had a blast, but I'm very happy to be home.

The view from Neuschwanstein Castle

Where I'm From...

2008-09-12T10:54:00.003-05:00

I am from biscuits and gravy, yes food, from Shrinky Dinks and make believe country stores with campgrounds.

I am from the room at the end of a very long hallway littered with doors; filling a southern ranch style home made of red clay bricks situated somewhere deep in the Bayou State.

I am from the earth, the trees, the sunshine and rain.

I am from long summer road trips and family bickerings, from momma who is a long-suffering southern "black gal", and dad the damned yankee who thrives on an educational foundation upon which to take action, and I am from Spud, good ole Spud, my personal hero who embraced a bravery and courage that I may perhaps never experience. I am from a husband and daughter who struggle to find similarities in their worlds of vast differences, both of which have so much in common with me, both of which are a bit oblivious to their developing relationship.

I am from the mix of individuals who would most likely never develop a friendship outside of the family bond and the eclectic energy that cements us together; the accidental spillage of super glue!

From people being drawn to you simply because you smile, and from at least trying each of life's little adventures that my heart sets out to do. Not fearing possible failure. Embracing the moment.

I am from the spiritual side, divided by the more religious. A haunting yet curious guilt that is trapped within, constantly struggling to resurface. An embedded expectation that everyone should not stumble, a sometimes confusing understanding of forgiveness and my belief that it is not deserved by all. A love so deep, combined with true compassion, yet sometimes lacking the strength needed to withstand every battle.

I'm from the Sunshine State, a temporary dwelling for my southern roots, more biscuits and gravy in the morning followed by a finale of cornbread before bedtime.

From the Bermuda bus trip that better resembled a roller coaster ride, riddled with giggles and glee from the lovely little girl, the little Meggie, sitting in the back row, the silence and solitude of waves crashing against oceanliners, and the cooperation of all during weekend camping expeditions, solidfying family unity, made stronger by the presence of kayaks.

I am from the memories that reside in my great-grandmother's black buffet cabinet, the bottom drawer, filled with happiness, sadness, laughter and tears. Old times not forgotten, great friends forever etched in my mind, a wonderful family encompassing my heart and soul. Lest I not forget the furry friends who have walked beside me on this path, making each day brighter.

To obtain a template to write your own "Where I am From" poem....http://www.swva.net/fred1st/wif.htm.

This was a great way to really give great consideration to my life! Enjoy the opportunity it provides you :)

Life's Little Pleasures...For Me

2008-07-24T09:18:00.004-05:00

One of my gardens. Specifically, this is Momma and Megan's Butterfly Garden, which is certified as a Monarch Weighstation through http://www.monarchwatch.org/. The purpose is to provide not only nectar plants for Monarch butterflies, but more importantly, plenty of milkweed plants for the caterpillars to eat since milkweed is the only thing that the Monarch caterpillars can eat.

Of course, all caterpillars are welcome in my garden, or almost all. These guys are one of the few not welcome!

But let me ask you, just how many people do you know that get EXCITED when they see these little guys hanging around??? I love it! I am proud :)

Sorry No Vacancy

2008-07-21T10:22:00.005-05:00

Unfortunately, my mother bluebird was recently killed by a predator (more than likely a stray cat -- more on that later). After finding her remains in our yard, I spent a little time monitoring the nest to make certain that it was in fact the mother bird. Since I used to see her in and out of the nest multiple times per day, after a week of no activity, I was fairly certain, so I removed the nest from the box with the four little blue eggs. It was hard taking this action, but it is nature and the best thing to do.

Within 24 hours, I noticed a little bird making it's way in and out of the same nest box! I was delighted to see the box quickly being used again instead of sitting vacant. I let a few days pass before approaching to see up close who might be creating such a buzz over the box. As I got closer, the House Wren below was apparently not pleased to meet my acquaintance.

When I opened the box, I was shocked to see how FULL it was! I realize this isn't a very good picture, but I think you can see the twigs are filling this home to the top, including packing peanuts. Are eggs/babies really going to fit in there? I read that House Wrens will "completely fill the nest cavity with uniformly small twigs, then line a small depression at the back with pine needles and grass." Sometimes, they will even fill a nesting box as a decoy, with the eggs in an actual nest nearby, to throw off predators.

Since my main goal for this nesting box was to provide shelter for our bluebirds, I now realize that I need more bluebird boxes on my property, just in case someone else moves in whenever there is a vacancy.

As for cats, please keep your cats INDOORS! Domestic cats are a major threat and predator to native birds and their young. Place bird feeders and birdbaths away from thick, low growing shrubs where predators could be watching and waiting, but have them close enough so that the birds have a place to perch to inspect the area for safety. Plus, cats will be safer and live longer if kept indoors :)

Stop Puppy Mills

2008-07-14T09:27:00.005-05:00

As anyone who reads this blog knows, I love critters. This being the case, I also love my dogs and cats, all of which I rescued from various organizations. To honor the wonderful work of Bernie Berlin at http://www.aplacetobark.blogspot.com/ , I have added the Stop Puppy Mills banner on the left (and you can too). Please visit her site and show your support of the work she does to rescue dogs from horrible situations.

Tugger Bugger BooBoo watching over the neighborhood!

Lindsay Binsey being Lindsay!

Abbserella, Colleener Weiner, & Rosca-Rubert having dinner together in the cat room!

Our little Button Doo-Little!

And our newest addition, Lily Lumpkin! Did I tell you that she hates dogs and attacks them? hehe

My Plants = Caterpillar Kitchen

2008-07-02T10:41:00.004-05:00

I should place a sign in my front yard that reads, "Open for Business." Or,how about "Caterpillar Kitchen."

It may be strange, but my passion (besides plants in general) is caterpillars! In fact, I plant the trees and flowers based on the butterflies and moths that they will attract!

Spicebush Swallowtail Butterfly on my Sassafras tree

I haven't identified this guy yet!

Monarch Butterfly Caterpillar on Common Milkweed

I believe this is a White-marked TussockMoth Caterpillar

The Fall of Wonder Woman

2008-07-01T15:14:00.002-05:00

It was the summer of 1979 in Pineville, Louisiana, or at least I think it was summer. The air was heavy and stale. Though I am much older now, I remember the day like it was just yesterday.

I had spent many moons absolutely infatuated with Batman. The Batman brush mom purchased for me from Avon was a true testament of my love. If only I could have been Cat Woman; to have been given the chance to know this man I admired. Would he be in awe of my body in the sleek black suit? Would he want me the same way I wanted him?

As the days passed, I eventually had to accept that my role in this universe was never going to change. I was a little girl, living in a little town, on a little street, in a little house…. I think you get my point. My super powers only existed within my very large imagination, and even then, they would disappear as soon as the lights went out in the bedroom. At that time, I relied on my cat Marshmallow in hopes that she actually possessed the powers needed to protect me from the monsters that would no doubt come out of the closet between the hours of 9:00pm and 7:00am. Since I am still here, I can safely assume that she did a good job!

Then one day it happened! It was like a miracle. A dream come true. I was a super hero.

Perhaps now I would catch the eye of Batman. I'd break through the clouds in my invisible plane, and use my lasso to capture the bad guys. I was smart, beautiful and strong. I stood up on a chair in my families kitchen in order to profess my newfound life, "I am Wonder Woman!" And with that statement, I took a leap to show off my newly acquired skills.

(((CRASH)))**(((BAM)))**(((SPLAT)))

After unhooking my clothing from the back of the chair and picking myself up off of the floor, with tears running down my face, I meekly cried, "I ripped my Underroos."

You too can enter July's Write Away contest at Scribbitt:
http://scribbit.blogspot.com/search/label/contests

Polishing My Patience

2008-06-26T08:08:00.002-05:00

I recently saw the movie Evan Almighty. Not a great movie, but a cute movie that we enjoyed watching together as a family (we also liked Night at the Museum). Is it a strange thing that I was able to be "moved" by this movie? It actually stimulated my brain and thus began a major thought process.

The point that I found so simple yet so profound….When we pray that God give us patience, he doesn't actually just automatically give us patience, but instead he provides us the opportunities to exercise patience.

This obviously can be said about most of our requests of God. He gives us opportunities to learn or exercise what we have learned. Many of us get frustrated when the request is simply not answered, not realizing the opportunity is right in front of us. I mean, how can you be patient if you do not encounter situations that would test your patience?

As a nature lover and gardener, my patience is tested every day. I want results; now. But I have had to learn that it can take years. That little acorn may not amount to much any time soon; perhaps not even during my lifetime! I am not instinctively patient. Not with my plants, not with people, not at work, not while driving. But I am hoping that if I consider each situation as an opportunity to "polish my patience," then perhaps I might learn a thing or two.

What opportunities is God providing you?

Build it and they will come!

2008-06-25T09:05:00.003-05:00

This summer can officially be called successful! My garden has done it's duty. It has obviously attracted the monarch butterflies, which must be happening during the day when I'm at work.

Since my garden is a certified Monarch Weighstation through www.monarchwatch.org, I'm constantly strolling through my yard in search of eggs or caterpillars on my milkweed plants. Assuming that nothing had taken place yet (which is silly since nature is always "taking place" around us regardless of whether we are clued in or not), imagine my surprise when I spotted this large caterpillar chewing away on a plant!

I love my garden. I love my monarch caterpillars. And I love my Sony Cybershot. Now I really need to learn how to use all of it's features so that I can get better pictures!

Host plants for caterpillars

2008-06-17T08:22:00.003-05:00

Here is a good list which I copied from monarchwatch.org of host plants preferred by certain species of butterflies. The challenge? Choose just one butterfly species and grow a few of the plants listed, and see if you can attract that butterfly to your garden! Please keep this point in mind.......the caterpillars will MUNCH on the leaves of the plants; sometimes stripping it to the ground. This is a good thing! There is no need to panic or take any action.

BUTTERFLY & PLANT:

Swallowtail Family (Papilionidae)
Black Swallowtail - parsley, carrot, dill, parsnip
Spicebush Swallowtail - spice bush, sassafrass

Snout Butterflies (Libytheidae)
Common Snout Butterfly - hackberry
Brush Footed Butterflies (Nymphalidae)
Great Spangled and Idalia Fritillaries - violets
Buckeye - plantains, gerardias, toadflax, snapdragons, false loosestrifes
Painted Lady - thistles
Red Admiral - nettles, false nettle
Viceroy and Red-Spotted Purple - willows, especially black willow, pussy willow, poplars, plums, and cherries
Hackberry Butterfly - hackberry
Monarch Butterfly - milkweeds

Sulfurs (Pieridae)
Cloudless Sulfur - sennas, partridge pea
Dogface Butterfly - lead plant, false indigo, prairie clover

Coppers, Blues, Harvesters and Metalmarks (Lycaenidae, Riodinidae)
American Copper - sorrel
Sylvan Hairstreak - willow
Common Hairstreak - mallow family , hollyhock , rose and marsh mallows
Gray Hairstreak - hawthorn

Skippers (Hesperoidea, Hesperidae)
Blazing Star Skipper - grasses

Welcome Home Caterpillars

2008-06-16T09:16:00.007-05:00

http://www.monarchwatch.org/

This is the beginning of my favorite time of year. The time of year when I can frolic through my yard in search of caterpillars. And now this year, I finally have a better camera, so I will be able to take pictures of them and then do my research trying to determine what kinds of caterpillars I have in my yard from inside my house. Last year I had to thumb through my books in my yard while standing in front of the caterpillars (my attention to details or memory simply isn't that great).

As for butterflies and moths, do you realize that there are many species that will lay there eggs on specific plants since the caterpillars will only eat that particular type of plant? For example, the monarch butterfly will only lay eggs on milkweed plants as this is the only species of plant that the monarch caterpillar can eat.

This being the case, it can quickly become a critical issue when specific native plants are being destroyed and not replenished. The caterpillars very quickly are losing their food sources, and they are left with no other options. Because of this, I want to encourage you to consider the caterpillars next time you are picking a plant (flowers, shrubs and trees alike) to grow in your yard. If nothing else, plant some milkweed for the monarchs. Asclepias tuberosa is a great variety that adds a punch of color to the garden, and is fairly drought tolerant, but any variety will do!

Below are some companies where you can mail order many varities of milkweed, plus other native plants. Please be aware of which plants are native to your region. Also, if you know of others that are great, let me know about them. I'm always willing to try to sources for natives.

www.prairiemoon.com/ (I've used this nursery for mail order and can highly recommend)

www.prairienursery.com (I've used this nursery for mail order and can highly recommend)

www.shootingstarnursery.com/

www.ernstseed.com/

www.musserforests.com/

Because we have a few local native plant nurseries (including ones without websites), I rarely need to use mail order. Below are some of our local nurseries to SE PA:

www.edgeofthewoods.biz/ (I've used this nursery and can highly recommend)

www.redbudnativeplantnursery.com/ (I've used this nursery and can highly recommend)

www.yellowspringsfarm.com/ (I've used this nursery and can highly recommend)

The birds will thank you too!

Happy gardening!

Happy Mating Season Mr. Snapper!

2008-06-04T08:34:00.003-05:00

There once was a creature
Solid and stout
Who made the decision
To get out and about.

He strolled by a tree
And grasses so lush
All in the hopes
Of finding his crush.

Love he was seeking
Taking great strides
Dodging his fears,
And humanly rides!

Along came a family,
With a camera in tow
Point. Click! Snap!
Cool pictures to show.

This creature decided
To get going places
As soon as he was done
Making a few funny faces!

I think my family is making a habit out of spotting snapping turtles and helping them off the pavement. I DO NOT recommend doing this without proper precautions! Snappers can and will take off a human finger easily. This little fella was our first this year, on our way home from a Phillies game on Sunday. Despite the victory at the ballpark, Mr. Snapper was the highlight of my day, aside from some bonding time with my daughter :)

Visit http://scribbit.blogspot.com/search/label/contests and enter June's Write Away contest! Have FUN and good writing!

When the work is too much!

2008-05-07T09:08:00.004-05:00

Ok, so I may complain that the yard work has become too much….me and my crazy desire to create a wildlife haven on my recently vacant piece of earth….and I still may not have the insanely exciting knowledge of what exactly is a "bad" weed versus a "good" weed, but despite my aches and pains and the unending manual labor that comes along with my passions, I absolutely love the end results (which I may add is hopefully only the beginning of the pleasures that future years will offer me).
Because my yard is becoming more hospitable to wildlife, it is even harder for me to get all the work done due to my weakness of being easily distracted. First by this…..

Then this…….

And this (look hard and you will see this blue bird momma peeking out)……

Next it was this....

And ultimately, when momma left her nest, this……

I hope that your little piece of earth is offering similar glorious blessings :) If not, plant a tree, shrub or flower, and wait to see what is in store for you!

May's Write-Away Contest

2008-05-02T09:17:00.001-05:00

http://scribbit.blogspot.com/search/label/contests

I just love contests, so I couldn't resist. Good luck!

A Ramble...

2008-04-16T08:34:00.008-05:00

I'm certainly not a photographer, nor do I understand anything about manual settings, but now that I have my new camera I simply want to take pictures of all the things that make me appreciate each day.

Two weeks ago we installed a blue bird box in our front yard. Within days, I noticed birds using it to perch and a few days later I witnessed a bird fly into it. Today, I was finally able to capture the moment…..

Another creature (or beast) that I see every morning during my drive into work is a small herd of buffalo. The pasture is about a mile from our house. They are not normally up at the fence along the road, but this morning I had the opportunity to get a good up close shot!

As for other amazing animals I see during my drive, a beautiful red tailed hawk. He sits in the same location along the highway, perched in one of many small trees waiting to find his next meal. There is rarely a day that I don't see him. I don't typcially drive on that stretch of highway outside of rush hour and the traffic makes it too hazardous to get a picture, but I will eventually get one and share it here.

And lastly, another crazy creature that makes me smile each day :)

These pictures were taken in DC over the weekend. She LOVES anime, and though most of the cherry blossoms had already fallen to the ground, she was still able to get a few to fall off the tree!

Did I ever tell you I'm not a fan of crowds! Way too many people in DC; way too many! Glad to be home :)

Spring has sprung

2008-04-01T08:11:00.002-05:00

For anyone who knows me, I don't think there is a need for me to express

my love for this time of year!

Why Do Weeds Grow So Fast?

2008-03-28T09:33:00.003-05:00

I wish the trees in my yard would grow

as fast as this little weed of mine!

NWF Blog

2008-03-24T11:06:00.002-05:00

As if I wasn't bad enough at updating one blog page, I now manage two!

http://my.nwf.org/Kelley2

Stream Ecology at Stroud

2008-03-12T12:34:00.003-05:00

This past weekend I had my first of hopefully many visits to Stroud Water Research Center in Avondale, PA, to hear a presentation on stream ecology. One point that the speaker focused on was the threat that "thermal pollution" has on the biodiversity of our streams. As the number of trees along our streams and rivers are decreased to make room for development (whether residential or agricultural), the water temperatures are naturally increasing due to sun exposure. As a result, we lose plant and animal species that are very susceptible to even very slight temperature changes. Plus, as many of us know, when we remove the trees that act as buffers to our streams, we are removing stream bank stabilization, natural plant filters which remove contaminants, and we decrease the amount of dissolved organic matter within the waters which are needed for a healthy habitat. Basically, it boils down to this, the more trees we have in our watersheds, the better the water quality.

Her suggestion for trying to get people to listen to our message, no matter what our message may be; peer pressure! She mentioned a small study that was done regarding the signs in hotels asking patrons to re-use their bath towels during their stay. After studying five different signs (each one with the same message but that read slightly different), the sign that was most effective was the one that read, "Since most of our other patrons are choosing to re-use their towels…"

We need to make our environmental actions the trend for other people to follow!

During my drive home from Stroud, I took a little side trip to visit Hibernia County Park. It was a rainy and foggy day, and thus I had the park pretty much to myself. It was lovely and peaceful.

A Visit To NWF

2008-03-07T10:04:00.005-05:00

Two wonderful opportunities in one month :)

Many thanks to NWF for inviting me (along with many others) down for a visit to the NWF headquarters in Reston, VA, this past month. Megan and I made a nice weekend of the trip; some much needed mother daughter time!

I just love the work that the folks down there are doing to help save our wild places, and it was a real treat to get a "good-bye" from this little, or not so little, guy as we were leaving the facility.

While there, we also visited the Air and Space Museum at Dulles and got to see some other cool flying "creatures."

A New Perspective: Hope

2008-02-27T09:47:00.001-05:00

Megan and I had the opportunity to hear Richard Louv speak last week at West Chester University during their Civility Day. I definitely believe that Americans in particular (I can't speak for other countries for which I do not hold residency) are disconnected from nature, but over the past few years I have noticed a strong growth in environmental concern, especially within the younger generations, such as high school and college students. I agree that we MUST find ways to bring nature back into the lives of children in order to save our planet from the dire "forecasts" of climate change, alien species invasions, native plant and animal extinctions, etc.
What I took away from his lecture though, was the need to focus on hope and provide a positive message!

We are already seeing the negative impact that human development is having on our earth in general, but perhaps we need to focus our message/s on the positives. The example that Mr. Louv provided was about high school students who were unexpectedly engaged and attentive during his lecture. He later learned this was because the message they were "hearing" was how the threat of global warming was going to require a lot of creative change during the next 50 years. New industries, new jobs / positions being created, new bio-fuels will need to be developed and researched, new technologies, and how all of this would provide this young generation a great opportunity to change the world; for the better!

We don't have to use scary factoids to change the way people view the environment. Instead, we can hold out the message of hope with a view to a positive, though perhaps somewhat altered, future.

Winter Lecture Series continued

2007-12-27T09:48:00.000-05:00

Green Valleys Association &

Habitat Resource Network of Southeast Pennsylvania

jointly present

An Introduction to Permaculture

Victoria Laubach

Director of Welkinweir

*****

Saturday, January 12, 2008

10am – 12pm

Green Valley Association’sWelkinweir

Pottstown, PA

Registration Requested

http://www.habitatresourcenetwork.org/

call Maureen 484-678-6200 or

email: admin@habitatresourcenetwork.org

Green Activities for WCU

2007-12-06T09:51:00.000-05:00

I wanted to make you aware of the FYI from President Adler’s Office on Green Activities for WCU. You can read about the Gordon Area and other neat activities. I am very proud of what WCU is doing and we can co more.

~~ Dr. Gerard Hertel

***********

December 5, 2007
FYI . . .
An Occasional Communication from the President

THE PURPLE AND GOLD GO GREEN

The 2007 Plan for Excellence update adds this important goal to the Responsiveness Transformation: Encourage environmental awareness through training, curricula, and co-curricular programming; assess and reduce the ecological impact of the University; and promote research and service that foster regional and global sustainability. In this FYI, I would like to tell you about some of the important WCU programs that are helping us work toward that goal.

The Robert B. Gordon Natural Area for Environmental Studies

The Robert B. Gordon Natural Area for Environmental Studies (or GNA) is West Chester’s finest ecological treasure and represents our last public land inherited from Penn’s Woods—i.e., Pennsylvania as King Charles II granted it to William Penn in 1681. The GNA, which is located on South Campus, is home to 500 identified plant, fungal, and animal species and exemplifies WCU's commitment to environmental stewardship and a sustainable future. Many thanks to WCU biology major Erika Szonntag for the information included here—Erika is the editor of Gordie News.

GNA History. The 150 acres (proposed) within the GNA were first considered for preservation in December 1971 after WCU’s trustees heard a student research presentation about the forest. Formal dedication of the area—named in honor of WCU Professor Robert B. Gordon and designated for the purposes of education, research, and the protection of biodiversity—took place on November 10, 1973. Until recently, however, the area had no formal upkeep except from the University’s Grounds Maintenance Services. With the passing years came signs of ecosystem degradation from the expanding deer population, invasive non-native plant species, trail bikers, and excessive storm-water runoff.

Beginning in early 2002, volunteers began assisting with GNA maintenance, and in 2004, the WCU Department of Biology applied for and received a Presidential Initiative grant to identify threats to the GNA and create the framework for a science-based management plan. Additional activities were funded by the WCU Environmental Council. In October 2006, the University’s Administrative Budget Committee funded a pilot project for implementing the management plan, and the project has been renewed for a second year. The next goal is to ensure the protection, restoration, and enhancement of this rich natural preserve long into the future.

Threats to the GNA. In spite of current efforts, the threats to GNA species and ecosystem composition have not disappeared. Deer overpopulation, the ongoing presence of non-native plant species, and excessive storm-water runoff remain concerns. Among the animals threatened are area-sensitive bird species such as the oven bird, scarlet tanager, and wood thrush; the four-toed salamander is also in decline. If the area’s invasive plants are left to thrive, within 75 years they will likely choke out virtually all of the native vegetation, leaving perhaps as few as 20 plant species.

Current Research and Conservation Projects. The Gordon Natural Area has long been an important site for research projects, including a 35-year plant-succession study and several master’s-degree theses. Recent internal and external funding has catalyzed new research programs to address the mounting threats to the GNA. These programs include the following studies, whose sponsors are given in parentheses:

· Forest health (USDA Forest Service)
· Impact of deer on vegetation (in cooperation with Henderson High School and funded by the Chester County Conservation District and the Audubon Society)
· Stream quality assessment (Pennsylvania Sea Grant Program)
· Effects of garlic mustard on native vegetation (Center for Invasive Plant Management at Montana State University)
· Salamander ecological study (WCU Office of the Provost)
· Deer/non-native invasive plant demonstration areas (Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Wild Resources Program)

Gordon Natural Area Manager Gerard Hertel with
friends Woodsy Owl and Smokey-the-Bear at Homecoming 2007

Twice a year, during scheduled work days, volunteers do trail maintenance, remove trash and invasive plants, and perform other labor-intensive activities to improve the Gordon Natural Area. For the future, continued research and volunteer involvement will make it possible to prevent further ecological decline, reverse the effects of unbalanced species populations, and maintain the area’s intrinsic beauty and ecological value.

Importance of the GNA. In the last 15 years, Chester County has lost a quarter of its total tree cover. Given that profound loss, the GNA is especially significant as a haven for flora and fauna, as well as for the overall ecosystem protection that it provides. For example, the area is considered a “carbon sink” because it absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, potentially offsetting CO2 emissions and helping to retain and purify ground water.

In addition to being an outstanding outdoor teaching laboratory, the GNA is a popular recreation site for students, faculty, staff, and local residents—for instance, the Kenyan running team frequently uses the trails to train. For everyone, the Robert B. Gordon Natural Area is an idyllic retreat from the daily hustle and bustle and is an ecological treasure to be valued and preserved.

For More Information:
· Manager: Dr. Gerard Hertel (ghertel@wcupa.edu or 484-883-3371)
· Faculty Administrator: Dr. Harry Tiebout (htiebout@wcupa.edu or 610-436-2726)
· Student Team: Dan Babb (Education), Missi Bole (Biology), Sarah Johnson (Geology), Nick Lucash (Geography), Michael Degnan (Geology), Scott Rawhouser (Geography), Steve Savage (Accounting), Tara Speck (Environmental Health), Rachel Stern (Biology), Erika Szonntag (Biology)
· Web site: http://darwin.wcupa.edu/gordon/
· Official Newsletter: Gordie News (available on the GNA Web site)
· See WCU on the Billion Tree Campaign Site of the United Nations Environment Programme: http://www.unep.org/billiontreecampaign/photoGallery/indexNorthAmerica.asp

EARTH (Environmental Association for the Repair of the Habitat)

EARTH (Environmental Association for the Repair of the Habitat)—WCU’s student environmental organization—has since 1970 worked to develop campus and community awareness of the environment and each person’s responsibility to protect it. Initiatives such as the annual Earth Day Festival, collaboration with the Environmental Council, Quad articles, and visits to other student groups are among EARTH’s activities.

Last month, EARTH joined community members for a High Street rally against global warming that included handing out environmental literature and energy-efficient light bulbs. The group’s current project is a paper-recycling campaign in the residence halls. Tara Speck is EARTH’s president.

Earth Friendly Facilities Projects

As the following examples show, Facilities Design and Construction is taking an impressive role in helping West Chester University respect the environment and contribute to its wellbeing.

25 University Avenue Renovation
The environmentally friendly features of the 25 University Avenue renovation include these:
· Geothermal heat pump system with a well field that has been enlarged to anticipate the future changeover of Mitchell Hall
Geothermal heating and cooling work because the temperature in the 10 feet just below the earth’s surface is almost constant at 50-60 degrees Fahrenheit. In contrast, the air temperature in most areas of the globe fluctuates significantly. Geothermal heat pumps use the heat from below the ground surface to heat buildings in cold weather, with the relatively cooler below-ground temperature used to cool the buildings in hot weather. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rates geothermal heat pumps as “the most energy-efficient, environmentally clean, and cost-effective systems for temperature control.” (Source: http://www.eia.doe.gov/kids/energyfacts/sources/renewable/geothermal.html.)
· Reuse of an existing building
· Formaldehyde-free substrate for all casework
· Volatile-organic-compound (VOC) free, low odor paint
· Light well for enhanced natural lighting
· White EPDM (a highly durable material) roof
· Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood (see below)

East Campus Groundwater Recharge System
Beneath the surface parking lot east of the Matlack Parking Structure, a stone infiltration basin was installed to promote groundwater recharge. This infiltration system has the capacity to handle a two-year storm event falling on both the surface lot and the roof of the adjacent parking structure. Water falling on the surface lot is filtered through biofiltration islands before passing through inlets into the infiltration basin; water from the parking structure is piped to the basin.

The New Swope Music Building and the Performing Arts Center
The new Swope Music Building and the Performing Arts Center facilities were designed and constructed and are now operated to achieve the LEED Silver standard. “LEED” stands for “Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design” and is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of green buildings. The standards assess five areas: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection, and indoor environmental quality. (Source for the information about LEED: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=222.)

In the new Swope Music Building and the Performing Arts Center, the sustainable features include Forest Stewardship Council certification of the wood (see below); efficient heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning; substantial materials with a high recycled content; a significant percentage of locally sourced materials; VOC-free, low odor paint; and construction waste management.

E.O. Bull Center Renovation
A design consultant with LEED accreditation has been selected for the E.O. Bull Center renovation project, and the consultant has been directed to pursue LEED certification for the project.

Forest Stewardship Council Certification
Forest Stewardship Council Certification for wood is being considered as a University standard. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a nonprofit organization whose focus is responsible worldwide forest management. FSC standards are designed to protect habitat, water quality, wildlife, and the people who live or work in the forest. FSC certification allows landowners and companies selling timber or other forest products to demonstrate that their practices meet the FSC standards. (Source: http://www.fscus.org/.)

Campus Event: Environmental Sustainability across West Chester University

On January 28-29, the WCU Environmental Council will sponsor Environmental Sustainability across West Chester University, a campus-wide event led by Debra Rowe. Dr. Rowe, a senior fellow at the Association of University Leaders for a Sustainable Future, helps higher education institutions to integrate "sustainability literacy" into curricula, student life, operations, and community partnerships. Dr. Rowe’s visit to WCU will include meetings with representatives from all areas of the University, a keynote address, and a public lecture. The tentative schedule is below; invitations will follow.

Did You Know?
1. The Village student residence on South Campus, which opened in 2004, uses geothermal heating and cooling.
2. West Chester University is in the midst of a $19 million energy savings project.
3. WCU has received a $275,000 Pennsylvania Harvest Grant to include the geothermal component in the renovation of 25 University Avenue. Drilling has begun to install 47 new 500-foot-deep geothermal wells.
4. The University is in the study and planning phases of a long-term project to convert much of the campus to geothermal heating and cooling, a project that could have a significant positive impact on the environment. Design of the geothermal conversion of the Francis Harvey Green Library is nearing completion.
5. Already, 10% of the University’s electricity is purchased from renewable resources.
6. The University recently expanded its campus bus service.
7. For the Energy Performance Project, Facilities Management is completing the upgrade of more than 21,000 light fixtures across virtually all campus buildings and the installation of more than 2,000 occupancy sensors.
8. This year’s Civility Day—February 21, 2008—will focus on the theme Go Green: Strategies for Global Civility.
—A healthy earth is a gift to us all and to every generation to come. —

1947 Nash 600

2007-11-26T11:34:00.000-05:00

Below is a picture of our new car. We call her June Bug. Can you see Rusty in the garage looking longingly at her? I think his eyes are bugging out! Rusty is our 1948 Nash Ambassador.

June Bug was found in a barn when her original owner passed away. She's been totally covered up in that barn since 1957! Poor girl. Our goal....get her all cleaned up and on the road again, and then in a few years, she will be our daughter's prom ride, and what a ride that will be!

Who Put That Curb There???

2007-11-14T11:54:00.000-05:00

Slow Down on the Recycling!!!!

2007-11-08T11:39:00.000-05:00

Don't get me wrong...

Recycling has it's place, but if you don't buy as many bottles and you stop using so many plastic/paper bags, then you won't need to do as much recycling. Reducing your recycle bin will help to lower your carbon output.

Please make a effort to reduce your recycling needs by visiting the following website (or other website that you choose):

http://www.reusablebags.com/

GORDON AREA WORK DAY

2007-11-05T09:40:00.000-05:00

Gordon Natural Area Workday – November 10th (10am-12pm)

Volunteers are needed to head up the 6 groups listed below:

1. Remove invasive species in the floodplain (Turner)
2. Start on Amur honeysuckle removal (Seymour)
3. Complete the garbage pick up in two areas (Lohr)
4. Stream cleaning
5. Trail closure (Szonntag)
6. Tree planting (Bole and Kramer)

Be sure to stay for lunch at noon at the front gate (our chef for the last two years Margo Bucco will be cooking up some food!). A promotional video by Dan Baab and Steve Savage will be in production, along with a GPS demo by Scott Rawhauser and Nicholas Lucash. The National Wildlife Federation Backyard Habitat Program will be represented (Kelley Kramer)

2007-10-15T13:29:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I have to take a break from mother nature to focus on the things at home. Here, Megan was taking her best shot at Hollywood; The Lovely Bones to be exact. To date, nothing has come of this, but if was fun trying and this is a beautiful picture of her.

Locks For Love

2007-10-15T13:25:00.001-05:00

Megan makes a donation!

Finally, a Collegium Update

2007-08-29T08:21:00.000-05:00

Collegium before the habitat garden...

Collegium after the habitat garden....

We're already looking forward to seeing the garden next year after a full year of establishment! I am happy to report that this year alone, we have seen a new resident frog in the garden, many bluebirds and bees enjoying the nectar and the birdbath, plus at least three hummingbirds visiting the native Cardinal flowers that graced the garden with bright red flowers for weeks! Plus, we can never forget to mention Mr. Groundhog who has been seen running at top speed from the garden as people are approaching :)

PA Wild Resource Festival

2007-06-13T08:32:00.001-05:00

I believe this picture speaks for itself!

WILDLIFE HABITAT TOUR

2007-06-12T12:16:00.000-05:00

HABITAT RESOURCE NETWORK
OF
SOUTHEAST PENNSYLVANIA

WILDLIFE HABITAT TOUR

A GARDEN TOUR OF PRIVATE GARDENS:
All National Wildlife Federation certified wildlife habitats

Saturday, June 23rd, 2007
Self guided tours begin at 9:00 am
Tickets: $5.00 per person

The tour begins at the Brandywine Conservancy
and will include the
Brandywine River Museum Native Plant Gardens
Rt. 1
Chadds Ford, PA
www.brandywineconservancy.org

For tickets or more information:
Habitat Resource Network of Southeast Pennsylvania
P.O. Box 274
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Email: info@habitatresourcenetwork.org
www.habitatresourcenetwork.org
Phone: 484-678-6200

Gombe School of Environment & Society (GOSESO)

2007-06-01T11:57:00.000-05:00

The Gombe School of Environment & Society (GOSESO) has recently been awarded a one-to-one matching grant for $50,000 from the International Community Foundation in San Diego. The challenge encourages GOSESO to bring at least 200 individuals on board as Historical Supporters and Change Agents before July 1, 2007. So far, they have already raised about $25,000 in cash and pledges that count toward the matching grant.

*****

With early and crucial support from institutions and individuals like you, the GOSESO project is already making a vast difference in one of the most impoverished and forgotten regions of
Africa: the Lake Tanganyika region.

*****

http://www.goseso.org

*****

http://www.utahstate.usu.edu/issues/spring07/africa1.html

A Walk With Spud

2007-05-16T19:49:00.001-05:00

We are already half way through the month of May, but the next time it rains in your part of the world (I don't mean the thunder and lightning and tornado type of rain), I challenge you to throw your shoes off, ditch the umbrella, and take a short walk in the rain! If you have kids, take them too, as they will never forget the memory of you saying "it's ok. Have fun!"

Today it rained, and yes, I took a short walk, as the earth smiled and thanked the heavens above! Learning to appreciate the purpose of life changing events, not necessarily the meaning, can bring peace :)

The poem below is something that I wrote about my grandfather when he passed away in 1990, which my great-uncle read at his funeral:

Grandpa "Spud"

The path I travel is sometimes rugged

And then, again, is sometimes straight.

But all of the beauty along the way

Is something I could never hate.

I love to see the high noon sun

That finds a break among the trees.

Their shadows are cast upon the ground

And upon my face, the cool, spring breeze.

I love to see the grazing deer

And the birds perched beside their nests,

Along with all the other animals,

All signs of Nature at her best.

So follow behind me on this path

And discover what I've said to be true.

Because if this beauty was mine to give,

I'd give it all to you!

Little did my grandfather realize what a lasting impact he would have on my life, but that he did. He opened my eyes to the natural world as a little girl, and now as a grown woman, I am trying madly to get back to all things natural. Thus my challenge to you; to inspire you to appreciate this earth we inhabit. What may seem only like rain, is really the life support for every living creature!

Let The Work Begin!

2007-04-27T09:34:00.000-05:00

The workdays for the

Collegium Charter School Habitat Garden

will be on May 12 & 19 beginning at 9:00 am.

Volunteers are needed for digging, planting, and tons of mulching. We can't forget about the concrete benches and really large birdbath that have to be set up. Birdhouses will be built, and the list of things to do goes on and on!

This garden is being created to provide an outdoor educational classroom for students at Collegium. There is so much that we can learn from nature, and yet we are finding that children are spending more and more time inside watching televsion or playing video/computer games. It is our responsibilty to open the door of opportunity to the children, allow them to follow us through, and show them the importance of the natural world around us!

The Collegium garden, upon completion, will be certified as a Certified Wildlife Habitat through the National Wildlife Federation (www.nwf.org) and as a Monarch Waystation through Monarch Watch (www.monarchwatch.org). I encourage you to also find and assist a local school in developing a similar garden. I'd love to hear about it if you do!

I will post before and after pictures around the end of May, so keep posted :)

Where In the World is Gordie?

2007-04-20T09:33:00.000-05:00

Gordie, the Gordon Natural Area mascot (he's the little guy wearing the blue jacket), has been spotted most recently in Africa! I question how he gets around so quickly.

On Saturday, April 21, he will be joining the ranks at the Gordon Natural Area for The Great Garlic Mustard Pull.

Just for Fun!

2007-04-18T09:52:00.000-05:00

Sometimes when people ask you do something, you do it. This being said up front, here are 100 Things About Me:

I was born in 1972.
I was born in Gainesville, FL. (native Floridian)
Because I was a large baby, my mom was prepped for C-section but I started coming the other way.
The doctor had to break my right collar bone in order for me to fit through the birth canal (could be the reason for my phobia of confinement).
My family moved to Louisiana when I was 2 yrs old.
Both of my parents were married and divorced previously.
My father has two other daughters.
Their names are Kim and Shelly.
I have never met Shelly, which is her decision and her loss.
My mother has a son and another daughter.
Their names are Jon and Laura.
Because of the age differences and resident locations, I have a closer relationship to Laura than any other sibling.
I named my daughter after Laura.
I played the piano as a child.
We moved from LA when I was 12.
This is a very difficult age to move a child for the first time.
To this day, I miss all my old friends and the innocent Southern lifestyle.
It took two weeks total to make the drive to PA.
We stopped and visited family in VA.
We had 9 cats when we moved (4 adults and 5 new born kittens), hehe.
During the summer of ’84 (when we moved), I lived with my grandparents up in the Poconos, with the three adult cats.
During this same time, my parents live in a hotel room with the momma cat and kittens.
The people in PA were not as nice and friendly as the people in the South.
I hated middle school and high school.
I had been accepted into the Bryn Mawr School of Nursing to become a radiologist.
I declined the acceptance.
I don’t regret my decision to get into nursing, but I do regret not knowing my “passion” earlier in life so that I could have gone to college to study wildlife biology.
My mother was a lab tech.
My father worked for the US Forestry Service as an entomologist.
Hmmm, nursing and wildlife biology…..I guess I couldn’t decide if I liked my mother’s career or my father’s career.
I worked very hard as a young person to understand the bible, not just accept what people told me.
This caused conflicts at times during my studies with my dad since I couldn’t just base things on “faith” without proof.
I visited Scotland with my family when I was 18.
We took the train around the country to visit many destinations.
Scotland, for its size, is so totally diverse and so very beautiful.
I vow to take my daughter to Scotland some day.
I visited my brother and his family in Alaska when I was 20.
I was there for a couple of weeks but didn’t see much more than Anchorage and Portage.
It was March when I was in Alaska (not the best time to visit maybe?).
I brought my 5 year old niece back to PA with me.
She wouldn’t let me sleep on the plane.
It was a red-eye flight!
I was dating an older guy during this time (10 yrs my senior).
He took advantage of my innocence and used me and cheated on me.
He married the woman who he was cheating with and she deserves him and all of their rowdy, dirty kids.
I moved to Tennessee to start a new life in 1992.
It didn’t turn out to be a better life!
I was very poor in TN.
I worked very hard in a greenhouse, which taught me a lot about plants and how to grow them.
My ex-husband was a loser and a liar.
My best friend died on my birthday in 1994.
I had my daughter in October of 1994.
She is the best thing that has ever happened to me in my life.
I lived in TN for 6.5 years.
I learned wonderful lessons while in TN so I can’t complain.
I hated my ex-mother in-law.
I hated her more than I hate my ex-husband.
I moved back to PA in 1998 and started over again.
The computer classes I took helped me to land my first real job.
I spent a year and a half saving money to buy a townhouse for me and my daughter.
My parents and sister were a tremendous support during a very difficult time. They made it much easier.
In 2001, I met my current husband.
Six weeks later, we got married.
We were married the day before Thanksgiving.
We did not tell our families that we were getting married, except for our kids.
My husband has two daughters.
They were 11 and 12 when we met.
His ex-wife resented our marriage.
In fact, she announced to him that she was getting married two days after us but only AFTER he told her that we were getting married.
She had the nerve to ask if the girls could wear the dresses we bought them for our wedding in her wedding! Strange.
No doubt, I said no.
The situation with his ex-wife and girls became very difficult to say the least.
He no longer sees the girls.
We have two dogs.
Our female shar-pei is named Lindsay.
Our pit mix male is named Tugger.
They are nutty and crazy.
We have four cats.
An orange tabby named Roscoe (my baby).
He is the oldest of the bunch.
An orange tabby named Colleen.
A long haired calico named Abby.
A white and tabby patched baby named Button.
Button was a stray in the neighbor’s yard.
My new favorite TV show is the Dog Whisperer.
Cesar Millan is amazing! I want to be like him.
My hobby is gardening and native plants.
I am a volunteer with the National Wildlife Federation.
I am a board member with the Habitat Resource Network of SE PA.
I do not go to any kind of church. I am spiritual.
I am a Christian.
We take yearly family vacations.
In the past few years we have been to Bermuda, Mexico, Texas, Florida, Niagara Falls, Cape Cod, Cleveland (for one day).
This year we hope to visit DC and Las Vegas and then next year tour Germany, Italy and Switzerland.
We are finally painting the rooms in our house after 5 years!
My husband and I are soul mates.
I am stubborn which makes me loyal.
I stand up for myself and don’t waste my time with people who are wasting my time or energy.
I understand feng shui and I attempt to find harmony in my life, in my house, and in my rooms.
And did I mention that my daughter is the best thing in my life! I’m so proud of her.

Fighting Climate Change

2007-04-16T11:55:00.000-05:00

The Philadelphia Inquirer asked their readers to share their views on "Fighting Climate Change." And, since this is a topic that I am somewhat passionate about, I decided to share mine...

I am a believer that we are experiencing negative climatic changes and that the human contribution is playing a major, though not total, role in this issue. For those who want to debunk global warming as nothing more than a political myth or activist hype, and they think they are basing their decision on past scientific evidence, my only word of caution is this….I would rather believe in global warming now, make changes that have a positive effect on our environment, and later learn that my belief is unfounded, than to be a current non-believer, do nothing positive for the environment, and learn that I am wrong once it is too late for our earth to support life as we know it.

My concern on this matter has led me to become a Global Warming Ambassador volunteer with the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) so that I can share with others, not only statistics, but most importantly steps that we can take that will help make our earth a better and healthier place to live no matter what your stand may be concerning climate change. As the light bulbs in my house burn out, I replace all of them with compact fluorescent bulbs, which are longer lasting, require less energy, and ultimately helps to reduce mercury in landfills and ground water. My husband has also made the decision to take public transportation in an effort to reduce his own carbon footprint. I buy organic whenever possible as I feel that the tremendous quantities of pesticides and herbicides used by farmers only contribute to an unhealthy environment. We now wash our clothes in cold water and when we use the dishwasher, we never use the heated drying option.

A major initiative of mine is to encourage people to plant more native trees and shrubs. The unfortunate reality is that mature trees make the largest impact on carbon absorption, but if we do not start restoring the tree canopy cover that overdevelopment is destroying, we will find ourselves in a downward spiral that we may not recover from quickly or easily. This year alone, I will be planting over fifty native shrubs and trees in my own yard, plus I am working with a local school to create a NWF Certified Wildlife Habitat garden on their property which will include multiple native shrubs and flowers for the benefit of wildlife.

The changes that my family has made may be small compared to others, since we cannot currently afford to add solar panels to our house (believe me, we have done extensive research), but I feel that any and all changes have a positive impact.

Respect the earth and she will treat you well!

The Great Garlic Mustard Pull

2007-04-09T12:46:00.000-05:00

The Great Garlic Mustard Pull

The Gordon Natural Area at West Chester University

April 21, 2007; 10-12pm

(rain [pouring] date April 28)

GARLIC MUSTARD:

Garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata), is an invasive weed that has spread across much of the U.S .and harms native maples, ashes, and other hardwood trees by releasing chemicals harmful to a soil fungus the trees depend on for growth and survival. The tree-stifling alien was first introduced into the U.S. in the 1860s as a culinary herb . While many mechanisms -- from the absence of natural predators or parasites to the disruption of long-established interactions among native organisms -- have been proposed to explain the success of invasive species, new research is the first to show that an invasive plant harms native plants by thwarting the biological "friends" upon which they depend for growth.

While vanishing habitat caused by human activity is the number one threat to biodiversity, there is great concern over the impact of accidental and intentional dispersal of non-native invasive species across the globe. Researchers found that garlic mustard targets specific mycorrhizal fungi, which form mutually beneficial relationships with many forest trees. These fungi have long filaments that penetrate the roots of plants, forming an intricate interwoven network that effectively extends the plant’s root system. These fungi depend on plants for energy and plants depend on the fungi for nutrients. When tree seedlings, which depend strongly on these fungi, began to decline in the presence of garlic mustard, the researchers suspected that the invasive plant might thwart this symbiotic relationship.

Researchers tested seedlings’ ability to form mycorrhizal relationships in soil with a history of garlic mustard invasion. Three species -- sugar maple, red maple, and white ash -- had significantly less fungal root colonization and grew only about one-tenth as fast in the infested soil. Seedlings grown in sterilized, fungal-free soil taken from invaded and pest-free locations showed similar reductions, suggesting that diminished microbial activity had suppressed tree growth. Adding garlic mustard extracts to soil impaired fungal colonization and seedling growth, implying that the weed uses phytochemical poisons to disrupt native plants’ mycorrhizal associations and stunt their growth.

This suggests garlic mustard invades the understory of mature forests by poisoning the allies of its main competitors. By killing off native soil fungi, the appearance of this weed in an intact forest could stifle the next generation of dominant canopy trees. It could also invite other native and nonnative plants that currently grow in low-fungal habitats, such as those disturbed by logging or development.

Modes of Dispersion (spreads exclusively by seed)
· Flood/stormwater
· Deer
· Hikers/bikers
· Rodents & birds

Threats or Concerns
• Threaten some butterfly species
• Form monocultures and out-compete native spring growth
• The plant has no known natural enemies in North America, is self-fertile, and is difficult to eradicate once established

On-going effort!
• Seeds of garlic can remain viable in the soil for five years or more
• Effective management requires a long term commitment
• Prevent seed production until the stored seed is exhausted

Partners:
· Valero Energy Corporation (Steimel,W)
· Chester County Chapter, WCU Alumni Association (Colyer)
· Sierra Club, Chester Co (Whiteford)
· Habitat Resource Network of SE PA & NWF (Kramer)
· Roslyn Swim Club (McCormick)
· Friends of the Gordon Area (Steimel, J)

Clubs:
· EARTH Group (Tara Speck; Morgan)
· Darlington Biological Society (Misty Demi; Pagan)
· Geography (Coutu)
· Geology (Lutz)
· Henderson Environmental Club (Lammey)
· Friars’ Society ( Trevor Garner ; Casotti)
· Hillel (Jordan Bendat-Appell)

Habitat Resources

2007-03-21T13:23:00.000-05:00

A few of my favorite links:

Wild Ones (www.for-wild.org)
National Wildlife Federation (www.nwf.org)
Habitat Resource Network of SE PA (www.habitatresourcenetwork.org)
Great Green America Fest (www.greatgreenamericafest.com)
Monarch Watch (www.monarchwatch.org)

Don't worry, there are a ton more, which I will add later, such as global warming links, more nature links, etc!

Spring is just around the corner!

2007-03-20T11:54:00.000-05:00

There may still be snow on the ground (along with some ice), but there are also plenty of signs that spring is on the way! To me, the most evident sign would have to be the birds. I'm seeing more varieties and we are witnessing the beginnings of nest building. This being said, I am ready to begin my yard work and hoping that I have all of the indoor chores done before the warm weather gets here.

As my preparations for gardening begin, I joined our local Wild Ones chapter, the Habitat Resource Network of SE PA, and the Biology department of West Chester University for a lecture given by Doug Tallamy, who is a professor at the University of Delaware. The title of his talk was "Fighting Extinction with Native Plants." We were all very pleased with the great turnout of about 75 people, many of which had questions and showed tremendous enthusiasm for positive changes with our environment and their own backyard communities. I think Doug did a wonderful job at not only opening our eyes to the huge threats on native plant and animal species, but also gave some good advice on actions we can take to fight these threats.

For anyone who may be interested in learning how to make similar changes, I encourage you to begin by learning which plants are considered native to your area, and which ones provide food or shelter sources for native wildlife. Then plant one, or three! That in of itself is the best start you can make! Next, visit our website at www.habitatresourcenetwork.org.

Also, there will be a work day at West Chester University's Gordon Natural Area on Saturday, April 21, 2007 at 9:00. This day is being called "The Great Garlic Mustard Pull." Bring your boxing gloves (not literally, just your gardening gloves) and help us fight this very invasive plant species before it takes over the natives.

Good day, and great planting (or at least planning)!

National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat

2007-03-09T10:43:00.000-05:00

HOMEOWNER WILDLIFE HABITAT COURSE

Create your own National Wildlife Federation certified Wildlife Habitat

April 21 and April 28, 2007
(Two Saturdays & two homework assignments!)
9:00 am to 1:00 pm

Natural Lands Trust, Hildacy Farm Preserve
1031 Palmers Mill Road
Media, PA 19063

This will be a “friendly” gardening course for people who are interested in creating a pleasing, environmentally friendly, wildlife habitat on their own properties by using native plants, shrubs and trees to create a safe haven, food and water for native insects, birds, butterflies and other wildlife.

COST: $50.00 per person or per homeowner/couple.
Course materials include the book, NWF’s Attracting Birds, Butterflies and Other Wildlife.

TO REGISTER: Contact Habitat Resource Network
phone: 484-678-6200,
email: info@habitatresourcenetwork.org
website: www.habitatresourcenetwork.org.

2007-02-19T13:05:00.000-05:00

West Chester University
Department of Biology
(Gordon Natural Area for Environmental Studies)
&
Habitat Resource Network of Southeast PA
(Wild Ones Chapter & National Wildlife Federation Volunteers)

jointly welcome

Dr. Doug Tallamy,
Professor & Chair of Entomology and Wildlife Ecology
University of Delaware

“Fighting Extinction with Native Plants”

Sunday, March 18, 2007 at 1:00 pm

The wild birds & animals we all enjoy will disappear if we take away their food and habitat. Uncontrolled expansion of suburbia is doing just that. To support wildlife, we must redesign the suburban garden, replacing alien ornamentals that are less useful to wildlife with the native plant species that once nourished our local biodiversity. Fortunately, this is easy to do!
Find out why our lives depend on our native plants and what we can do

West Chester University of Pennsylvania
Schmucker Science Center North
South Church Street, West Chester, PA
(Park on Church St. or in lot behind Sykes Student Union off Rosedale Ave.
http://www.wcupa.edu/_information/afa/Facilities/CampusMaps/)

This lecture is free and open to the public.
Advanced registration is recommended.
Light refreshments will be served.

To register, contact HRN at (484) 678-6200,
www.habitatresourcenetwork.org, or info@habitatresourcenetwork.org

Just Another Day

2007-01-11T10:00:00.000-05:00

I told ya I wouldn't have much time for updating this on any kind of regular basis! Oh well, no big deal. Still a means to provide some updates on my life as I know it.

We are trying to decide how we will proceed with our car situation. Now that Tim will be commuting via the train most days, we no longer need three cars (especially the new one we bought that got good gas mileage for his long commutes). Obviously I'm not counting the fourth car in the garage, but it doesn't run so it doesn't count, hehe. My hope, we can sell or trade both cars and get one to replace them. This should save us some money each month as well. Only requirement, the new used car must be AWD, and I don't want a truck or big SUV. Not much for pickings when it comes to AWD cars!

Other news, I will be trying another medication for my fibro this weekend (I like to wait till the weekends incase I have any reaction it won't mess up my work days; boy, talk about dedication). Also, on a conservation note, I will be applying for a fellowship with The Environmental Leadership Program. They will actually provide environmental training, project support and networking opportunities for individuals who are looking to make a difference in their local communities. I may not yet have enough qualifications to be accepted, but I decided yesterday that, if I really want this, I need to at least try! Fingers crossed, and now I have to start filling out the application....they want "essays"! Oh boy!

Anyway, not much exciting going on. Just another day in the life of me :)

This is for Andi!

2006-12-27T13:34:00.000-05:00

I'm still very hestitant to do this, but I can honestly say that Andi twisted my arm! Most people know that I am not necessarily afraid of telling you what my opinions are, but "sharing my feelings" is a completely different story. For anyone who ever reads this, I hope no offense is ever taken to anything that I may write though I certainly cannot control your reactions, and as much as I care about your feelings, there simply is not enough time in the day for me to worry too much about it especially since I am filling the only few minutes I have left over for blogging!

Tim, don't worry, this will by NO means consume any more time out of my day/s. One thing is for sure, my family, my pets and my trees/flowers will always come before computers or technology.

My only goal here is to have access to friends and family on a somewhat more regular basis. Life can get away from us so easily. Tight bonds of friendship can be lost and broken with the passing of time. Yes, time can heal wounds but it can also cause fading, or perhaps more accurate, time can help to only dull the pain simply because our memories are not perfect reflections of our past and with each passing day, the little details begin to fade.

This past weekend, while sharing an old journal of mine with Tim and Megan, I read a passage where I was recollecting a memory of an old friendship in Louisiana. My best friend at the time, Aimee, had given me the movie The Jungle Book. Because of this, it had become my most favorite movie so when I grew up, I bought the same movie for Megan. Funny how that moment, over 25 years ago, made such an impression on me, but yet, today, I don't even recall the situation except for where I made note of it in my journal back in 1997.

For future reference, any upcoming blog will probably never be so "deep" as I will reserve these for my handwritten journal that I should begin writing in again.

Daily suggestion: Plant a tree and leave a legacy!