Getting ready for a family reunion in two months. The porch swing on the deck of the cabin was first on my parents’ porch 60 years ago. Some coming to the reunion will remember it is where my folks would be sitting waiting for their kids and grandkids to come. Dad always seemed to know about the time the guests would arrive. I’ve had that swing with me all these years as a sentimental reminder.

Then there was the added bonus this morning of finding this nest…

how these little guys survive the harsh winter and come back as if to say, “See, pansies are no weaklings.”

I’m assuming this is the same pair who have been spending their mornings at our pond this week. A female Hooded Merganser was here briefly yesterday. I’m assuming she’s the same one who has nested in the duck house the past 3 years. Her mate disappeared last spring so none of her 8 eggs were fertilized. Thought for sure she’d come back with a new mate this year.

I have a book titled Nelson’s Pond. It’s fiction, of course, but there are some true stories in it. Kids especially enjoy the stories of a Canada goose family, a fawn’s story and a young fox who all grew up on or near Nelson’s pond.

Nelson’s Pond by Ardith Nelson is available for purchase on Amazon.

As kids we rode bike to the creek out of town. As a young adult working at a resort it was afternoons by Lake Superior during my break. I’ve walked beaches here and on the Mediterranean, Indian and Caribbean as well as the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. There have been other creeks and rivers I have enjoyed along the way. We have even dug our own 1/2 acre pond in front of our home. There’s definitely “something” about being by water.

We’ve been told to expect Alberta Clippers this winter. That means snow storms and then frigid temperatures. We’ve had two so far. Thankful for our wood stove and an ample supply of firewood.

November 11, 2025

The camera can see the aurora better than my eyes can. Amazing!

…warm days, cool nights and the distinct smell of fallen leaves which have begun to cover the ground…signs of autumn.