Argiope aurantia If Charlotte's Web had been based on this species of black and yellow garden spider, would it have been as endearing? This is the quintessence of creepy - long, sturdy black-tipped legs covered in cactus-like hairs; dull colored, lifeless and virtually faceless head; and broad abdomen with a bright menacing phantom emblem on... Continue Reading →
Handsome devil A smooth-feathered herring gull struts across the rough surface of a stone slab inspecting the surrounding sands for the last tempting morsels of the day to share with its mate lurking nearby.
Contemplative bench Tucked between a small stand of evergreens sits an inviting simple plank bench, closely embraced by dense shrubbery and a cool, calm, welcoming sky.
As previously posted (here https://michael-j-hall.com/2022/01/30/are-you-a-wordle-turtle/) you can learn about the basics of the game Wordle and find some strategies for novice or casual Wordle players that lead to successes virtually 100% of the time. Since then, numerous strategies have been employed with varying success. However, if you fancy yourself to be more of an advanced... Continue Reading →
"Don't force your children into your ways, for they were created for a time different from your own." Plato Words as true now as they were over two millennia ago. Such a simple precept, yet so difficult to remember that our children did not get the same experience as we had in our youth, nor... Continue Reading →
Malee pranced across the yard toward her family’s house carrying her precious sloshing package. She bounded up the steps directly into the main living area and immediately searched for an open container at least big enough to display her gilled guest for everyone to enjoy. Before long she found a large cup and began dumping... Continue Reading →
The coolest part of the day had already waned, giving way to the sun that had scarcely breached the horizon into the hazy morning sky. “All right Malee, you may play with the ducks later, we have work to do in the fields. Come along now” called out a slender, stooped man in loose clothing,... Continue Reading →
At the peak of the pandemic in my state, it was common practice and courtesy to wear masks indoors. This was mid-2020 when protective gloves were also being used with regularity. Masks weren't yet mandated and vaccines weren’t broadly available at the time. But it was understood that weakened immune systems and the elderly were... Continue Reading →
INT. HOME OF JUNE & JOSEPH - DAY It's a bright winter day outside. The open floor plan home exhibits the typical party decor for a 2 year old. A dozen close guests shuffle around the place snacking or assisting with the festivities. Among the crowd are familiar members of the family, like Mom, Ann,... Continue Reading →
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