Well, way up north where the air gets coldThere's a tale about Christmas that you've never been toldAnd a real famous newt all dressed up in redAnd he spends the whole year peelin' out of his shed It's the li'l red eftOoh, li'l red eftIt's the li'l red eftOoh, li'l red eft AhhhhhhOoooooooMerry Christmas Spotted... Continue Reading →
Before we had begun our trek through the trail of cedar, we had heard rumors and myths of an ancient monster that ruled these forested hills. Some described it as a giant gnarly serpent, while others recounted something like that of a lanky angular dragon. We had been warned to "leave no trace" of our... Continue Reading →
What do snakes, spiders, lizards, cicadas, crabs, dragonflies, humans, and birch trees all have in common? No, they are not ALL creepy - only most of them are. Yes, they are all organic things, but was looking for an answer a little deeper than that. Or actually more superficial. They all have outer layers that... Continue Reading →
Unexpected visit Down the lengthy driveway from my house there is a metal box affixed to a granite post. I wonder if any unexpected surprises from the postal service await me this day. On my route, a strange, but friendly feline saunters up to greet me. Its fur is a mix of grays arranged in... Continue Reading →
Ordinarily this would be an idyllic setting for a rendezvous. Was this female mallard stood-up by her prospective date? Or is she waiting like a traditional sea captain's wife, hopeful for her mate to return home from his long voyage? Or does she already suspect the worst and her low, distinctive quacking will continue to... Continue Reading →
Dahlia Clarion The nearly black foliage and rounded lemon yellow petals of this dahlia species make for a passing resemblance of its little pollinator friend. With a blooming season that lasts from mid-summer until the first frosts, this bitty bee has plenty of time to collect pollen and nectar ahead of winter. But you can... Continue Reading →
Wisteria Waterfall A solo yellow eastern tiger swallowtail swims upward against the cascading clusters of wisteria. The alluring aroma draws the butterfly onward and is further energized by drops of nectar. A final flicker of its feathery wings releases a dusting of pollen as it breaks free from the weight of the fragrant blooms. Words... Continue Reading →
michael-j-hall.com 