Solitude at Eagle Bluffs

On this sunny, cool, April morning, I encountered only one other vehicle at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area; even that distant car seemed to be moving a bit too fast for a birder.  Indeed, as the channel and pools have been drained and as wetland habitat continues to shrink, few waterfowl and shorebirds are stopping by and avid birders have abandoned the refuge in concert.

Nevertheless, I enjoyed the solitude and observed 25 avian species, including a barred owl, perched on a metal gate; a pair of bald eagles, two red-tailed hawks and about 60 turkey vultures rounded out the raptors.  Great blue herons and great egrets fed in the shrinking shallows while killdeer and a few lesser yellowlegs scoured the mudflats.  Waterfowl were dominated by green-winged teal, joined by small numbers of gadwall, blue-winged teal and northern shovelers.

I certainly understand the reluctance of many birders to visit the dried-up refuge; there are plenty of other wetland destinations in our region that will be far more "productive."  It is disturbing to observe what has transpired at Eagle Bluffs, especially in April when the floodplain is usually teeming with waterfowl.  Nevertheless, I'll keep stopping by to witness the devastation; besides, the summer songbirds should be arriving soon.  

The Fulcrum of Sorrow

I suspect most humans have endured a significant episode of sorrow in their lives: the early death of a family member or close friend, the failure of a relationship, the loss of a cherished job, among others.  While we try to compartmentalize that event, it stays with us, surfacing consciously or unconsciously throughout our life.

At times, the sorrow might be disabling, robbing us of happiness and masking whatever success we have achieved.  Whether we blame ourselves, others or simple "fate" for the event, it influences our beliefs and our behavior.  Counseling may or may not become necessary but, in either case, the sorrow cannot be completely expunged.

Most of us learn to live learn to live with its effects, buoyed by the many positive experiences of our life, but some succumb to the sadness, turning to substance abuse or worse.  Knowing that sorrow is a common element of the human condition may offer some peace of mind. 

Stationary Misery

For the last two days and for the coming 24 hours (at least), a stationary front has stretched from East Texas to the Upper Ohio Valley, separating cooler air to the north from warm, humid air to the south.  This front is responsible for the swath of tornados, severe thunderstorms and flooding rains that have plagued that region.

While most storm systems move rapidly from west to east, some stall out, their trailing front creating a clash zone between the air masses.  When this happens, secondary storms and their precipitation train above the same swath of geography, producing the unrelenting rain we have seen this week.  Once the soil is saturated, runoff rapidly fills and then floods the rivers and streams, spilling across floodplains and often taking out bridges and riverside structures.

Unfortunately, this flooding often does not peak until the storm system has finally moved on to the east.  As the swollen tributaries empty into larger streams and rivers, the latter continue to rise long after the skies have cleared. 

The King benefits Nature

King Trump is not a naturalist.  He intends to slash environmental regulations and increase fossil fuel production.  He wants to severely reduce protected habitat in this country and to expand "development" wherever possible.  He is all about personal consumption, upscale recreation and a lavish lifestyle.

Yet, the King's rabid use of tariffs may benefit nature.  Individual savings are falling, prices are rising and a trade war is underway.  A tanking economy will greatly diminish corporate investment, personal spending, travel and recreational activity.  In a nutshell, human consumption may greatly fall in this country and across the globe.

Such a reduction in personal consumption is the major way by which all of us can do our part in rescuing the planet.  How ironic that the king of consumption is leading this conservation movement (not that he would admit it). 

Reassured at Eagle Bluffs

Despite the cool, cloudy weather and continued dryness at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, a friend and I were reassured that spring moves on.  Eight great egrets graced the refuge, the first we have encountered this year.

Common summer residents in central Missouri, these stately birds favor shallow lakes and wetlands where they feast on a wide variety of invertebrates, fish, amphibians and small reptiles.  They usually roost and nest in colonies, often in the company of other waders, and, by late summer, begin to gather in large flocks.  Most winter in the Gulf Coast States or along the lower Mississippi Valley.

For now, the egrets are relative loners, scattered about the refuge and lending their beauty to the rather drab, early spring landscape.  For that and for their promise of warmer and more colorful days ahead, we were grateful. 

High Risk Storm Days

In the not-so-distant past, the National Weather Service would issue "High Risk Storm Day" warnings on several days through the spring and summer months.  On such days, the atmosphere is primed for severe weather (tornados, large hail, torrential rain, destructive winds, flooding), triggered by powerful storm systems as they move eastward across the country.  Today is the second warning already issued this year.

Now centered over the upper Midwest, today's storm is relatively slow moving and its trailing cold front is expected to unleash both severe weather and extensive flooding from Arkansas east-northeastward through the Ohio River Valley.  North of the central low, snow will fall from the Northern Plains to the Upper Great Lakes.

As we approach the historic peak of the severe weather season in the American Heartland, it is clear that climate change is augmenting the effect of these storms (not to mention the intensity of hurricanes to our southeast).  Benign storm fronts have been relegated to our past and high risk storm days have become the norm. 

Flashback Post LXIV

March and April tend to be fickle months in the American Heartland, a fact I acknowledged in a post back on April 1, 2012.

See: Fooled by March 

The King's Museum

Determined to rewrite American History, King Trump has ordered that the Smithsonian Institution be cleansed of any displays that reflect poorly on America.  I suspect this might include such events as the Salem witch trials, slavery, anti-war protests, the detention of Japanese Americans during WWII and the relocation of Native American tribes, among many others.

Project Whitewash, a term I suggest, would purify the King's museum and emphasize the fact that only white Christians are true Americans and that racism does not exist in this country.  All "foreigners" will gladly be deported to their homelands.

One suspects our King plans to rename the Smithsonian after himself at some point.  After all, the MAGA movement now defines American culture and Trump is its supreme leader. 

The Myanmar Earthquake

The tragic, 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar this week occurred along fault lines between the Indian and Eurasian Plates.  The former continues to push NNE into the latter, forcing up the Himalayas and producing frequent earthquakes in that area.  Adding to tectonic pressure within that region is the subduction of the Indo-Australian Plate beneath the southeast portion of the Eurasian Plate.

While these powerful earthquakes seem to have a predilection for impoverished countries, where the houses and buildings do not meet modern codes, this is a false narrative.  That assumption is derived from the fact that much of the planet remains relatively "underdeveloped."  Of course, our brief time on Earth also fosters that conclusion.

Here in the U.S., most quakes have been relatively mild over the past Century but major, destructive events lie ahead, especially along the West Coast (an Active Margin).  We can contribute to relief efforts and, perhaps, improve our quake prediction accuracy but we will never control tectonic activity. 

Floodplain Desert

For the first time in more than twenty years of visiting Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, I found that the refuge was nearly devoid of water this morning.  One shallow lake and scattered pools along the central channel offered the only evidence of "wetland habitat."

A modest number of ducks and shorebirds clustered at the oases; blue-winged teal, green-winged teal and northern shovelers dominated the waterfowl while pectoral sandpipers, killdeer and lesser yellowlegs were the only shorebirds I encountered.  Augmenting the feel of a desert landscape, at least 75 turkey vultures perched in the trees or soared above the floodplain; other raptors included four bald eagles, three northern harriers and a lone red-tailed hawk.

Local and visiting birders are surely disappointed by the arid state of the refuge during the heart of the spring migration.  Likely more disturbed are the nesting pair of bald eagles, deprived of the abundant fish and waterfowl that usually inhabit the refuge at this time of year.

Trump attacks our Legal System

Having set our economy on a course toward stagflation, King Trump has now turned his wrath on the legal system.  Long a harsh critic of judges who have ruled against him, he has now threatened law firms that defend individuals or corporations who disagree with his policies.

Just the latest step toward dictatorship, this move has been resisted by many judges and some of the law firms; other firms and a good number of corporations, lacking a moral backbone, seem to be complying with his edicts.

Many warned that Trump's election would threaten our democracy and our personal freedoms.  That is now increasingly clear.  No sense waiting any longer; it is time for a third Impeachment and for Republican Senators to defend law and order in America. 

Dependent Husbands

Throughout my medical career and now as a patient myself, I have seen them hundreds of times: husbands unable to speak for themselves.  Of course, I am not referring to those who are demented or severely handicapped; rather, I speak of husbands who stand by as they are registered by their wife and, later, as she provides his history.

Many might blame the domineering wife, allowing her husband to speak only when given clearance to do so.  But I blame the husbands, having become totally dependent on their wives for what is surely most aspects of their marriage.  One rarely encounters the opposite scenario; in my experience, women are far less likely to give up control.

As a physician, I would often have to intervene, explaining the importance of hearing directly from the individual with the symptoms.  Now, I can only shake my head in quiet disgust, knowing what will soon unfold in the exam room. 

The Skinks Resurface

Yesterday, I heard rustling in the leaves along our Columbia house and suspected that a five-lined skink had resurfaced from its winter burrow following our recent, mild weather.  That suspicion was confirmed this afternoon as a large, male skink scurried across the deck.

While another cold spell may send them back to their burrows, it is time to bulk up on larvae, insects, spiders and fruit if encountered.  As I have reported in the past,  these reptiles frequently visit our compost bin to gnaw on our kitchen waste and to feast on invertebrates drawn to the handouts.

Mating will generally take place in May and the young, with their bright-blue tails, seem to be everywhere by mid summer.  Though harmless, these active creatures tend to spook children (and some adults) since they are a bit snake-like in appearance.  The rest of us just enjoy watching their antics, squeezing through the narrowest crevices in search of prey.  

Calling Peter

This morning, a tufted titmouse called incessantly from our neighbor's tree.  Phonetically described as "Peter-peter-peter," the call is common background noise in the suburbs of the Central and Eastern U.S.

Though very common in that region, this small, attractive songbird is known primarily to birders and to those who put out sunflower feeders or suet.  Their diet consists mostly of insects and larvae but seeds and berries are also consumed, especially during the winter months.

As much as I enjoy having them around, their call can be annoying at times, especially for those of us who like to read outside.  Then again, who am I, a member of the most annoying species on the planet, to complain about their loud, ringing call; it is, after all, purely instinctual. 

Low Water at Eagle Bluffs

On this beautiful, March morning in central Missouri, a friend and I arrived at Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area to find that someone had turned off the spigot.  A shallow stream of water occupied the central channel and most side pools were nearly dry.  Only the southern portion of the refuge held a fair amount of water.

Nevertheless, the spring migration was well underway.  Waterfowl were dominated by northern shovelers, blue-winged teal and green-winged teal with lesser numbers of ring-necked ducks, mallards, redheads, northern pintails and a lone American wigeon.  Extensive mudflats had attracted a mix of shorebirds, especially pectoral sandpipers and yellowlegs (lesser and greater).  A flock of American white pelicans lounged on an island and killdeer raced across the mudflats.  Raptors included three bald eagles (two adults at the nest and an immature in flight) and a northern harrier.

The reason for the low water continues to baffle us, especially during the spring migration.  If more water is not released, the turnout of grebes, cormorants, diving ducks, coot, gulls and terns will be significantly diminished this year. 

Descending into Spring

When we left Colorado, yesterday, there were few signs of spring; a slight greening of the "grass," and sprigs of grape hyacinth foliage offered the only color on our Littleton farm.  Heading east following the blizzard on the Great Plains, we arrived at our Columbia, Missouri, home after dark; we had travelled about 700 miles and descended 4700 feet in elevation.

This morning, we awoke to find our magnolias and forsythia in bloom and clumps of bulb plants adorning the yard .  We had clearly descended into the Midwestern spring from the late-winter atmosphere of the Front Range.  As any observant nature buff knows, seasonal change is not merely related to latitude; altitude plays a significant role as well.

Though I had hoped to observe migrant geese, sandhill cranes or American white pelicans on our journey, none appeared in the clear, blue sky.  Tomorrow, I return to Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area after a long absence.  A report will follow. 

Delayed by a Blizzard

Having plans to head back to Missouri this morning, we left Denver under cloudy skies with little warning of what would soon change our plans.  By the time we reached the east side of town, flashing highway signs warned that Interstate 70 was closed, all the way to the Kansas border.

A detour to the south was considered, but snow and high winds had also closed Interstate 25 at the Palmer Divide, between Castle Rock and Colorado Springs.  In both cases, the amount of snow was not excessive but the high winds created blinding conditions for drivers.  Counterclockwise winds around another potent storm system, centered over northwest Missouri this morning, were augmented by clockwise winds around high pressure to our north.

Returning to our Littleton farm, we hoped that conditions might improve by afternoon but, as I write this post, sections of I-70 remain closed; indeed, during the peak of the storm, most of the Interstate between Denver and Salina, Kansas, was shut down.  Though we almost always pay close attention to weather on the Great Plains before planning to cross them, we were clueless this morning and will have to delay our journey until tomorrow. 

Late Season Chinooks

Front Range chinooks are comparable to Santa Ana winds in California.  High pressure, west of the Continental Divide, and low pressure east of the mountains combine to produce strong, downsloping winds that heat up as they descend.  These winds are especially strong in the canyons of the Front Range where they may cause damage and trigger wildfires.

During the winter months, chinooks are often responsible for the warm, sunny interludes that characterize this region.  These "snow-eater" winds also rapidly melt snow along the urban corridor, facilitating the clearance of roads and driveways.

Yesterday's chinooks had no snow to remove from Metro Denver but pushed afternoon temperatures into the low 70s F.  If this year is typical, we may need their magic right through April. 

Silencing Truth

King Trump's latest edict is to dismantle the Voice of America, long a source of truth across the globe.  That organization was established to spread democratic philosophy among citizens of autocratic countries.

While our King might explain that this move is just another cost-cutting measure, he, like other would-be dictators, is threatened by freedom and truth.  Trump wants to control the news as much as possible; as we know, he frequently attacks news organizations throughout his own kingdom that question his unbridled authority.

To date, there has been inadequate push back on King Trump's policies.  Democratic politicians seem to be focused on the 2026 midterms but that may be too late to save our democracy, our economy, our international relationships, our rule of law and our social support systems.  This latest move to silence truth should be a clarion call to vigorously oppose Trump before the damage is irreversible. 

Confidence in Sports

Over the next few weeks, many of us will be watching the NCAA basketball tournament and several major PGA tournaments.  We all have our favorite teams and players but come to understand that their success will rely on confidence as much as it does on talent.

Those who participate in sports as individuals (golf, tennis, etc.) often go on long winning or losing streaks; in both cases, confidence (or lack thereof) plays a significant role.  In team sports, confidence (or lack thereof) seems to be contagious, usually triggered by the performance (and mindset) of the star player(s).

Good coaches instill confidence as much as they teach fundamentals and techniques.  But, in the end, confidence is a fragile trait and the outcome of major sporting events tends to reflect its presence or absence.

See also: Advantage: Underdogs   

A Massive Wind Storm

A powerful storm is moving across the Great Plains this afternoon, currently centered over southern Nebraska.  Ahead of the storm's cold front, strong, southwesterly winds are producing blinding dust storms and a high risk of wildfires across the Southern Plains.

Farther east and closer the the storm's center, a line of severe thunderstorms is marching across the Midwest.  Blizzard conditions are expected on the Northern Plains while a high risk of tornados has been issued for the Gulf Coast States and the front pushes eastward.

Such storm systems are common in spring but, once again, their power will continue to intensify as our climate warms.  Here along the Front Range, we are on the back side of the monster storm and downsloping, northwest winds have pushed our afternoon high into the mid 50s F.  Had the storm tracked farther to our south, an upslope snowstorm would be in progress. 

Environmental Injustice

Today, King Trump's EPA Director announced that the Division of Environmental Justice and its many grants will be cancelled.  Established during the Clinton Administration, in the 1990s, this Division worked to ensure that low income communities are not exposed to toxic pollution from nearby industrial plants.

Explaining their decision to eliminate the Division, the Director offered more than the standard cost reduction argument.  He also suggested that the Division has engaged in reverse discrimination, funneling protection to lower income citizens (i.e. persons of color) at the expense of others (white folk).  Once again, the King's agenda is driven by racism and wealth accumulation.

One suspects this is just one of many steps that Trump and his Court will take to dismantle the EPA.  After all, they can't abide tree-hugging liberals, wringing our hands about pollution, habitat loss and climate change. 

Bufflehead City

This morning, on our usual loop through the southern portion of South Platte Park, a friend and I encountered 65 buffleheads, perhaps the largest number I have ever observed at the refuge.  Easily identified by their small size, short bill, distinctive plumage and diving behavior, they are among our more attractive winter ducks.

Usually seen in pairs or small flocks, these "cute" ducks tend to be quite active, scooting across the surface or diving for their meals.  The latter consist primarily of aquatic invertebrates though they sometimes nibble on aquatic vegetation as well.

Our winter guests may linger into mid April but most will be gone by then, heading north to breeding areas in Canada and Alaska.  I wish them a safe journey and look forward to their return next autumn. 

A Walk in the Foothills

On this mild, sunny morning, my wife and I headed up to South Valley Park, in the lower foothills of southwest Metro Denver.  Characterized by open grasslands that stretch along and between outcrops of the Lyons Formation (Permian Period) and the Fountain Formation (Pennsylvanian Period).  A fine network of trails offers scenic views of the Park and of the higher foothills to the west.

Elk often winter in this valley but this morning's mammal sightings were limited to mule deer and rock squirrels.  Scrub jays, spotted towhees and magpies were common and we also encountered blue jays, Steller's jays and a lone red-tailed hawk; prairie falcons may also be observed at this Park, nesting on the higher rock outcrops.

Due to the spectacular scenery, fine trails, interesting wildlife and easy access from the city, this refuge can be crowded, especially on weekends.  I thus recommend an early morning, weekday visit if possible. 

Seasonal Opening in Denver

An extended period of mild weather along the Front Range has finally taken a toll on the ice-covered lakes and open water is attracting waterfowl from the South Platte River where they have spent the winter.  This local shift will soon be followed by an influx of migrants from the south.

Throughout this month, wintering ducks will be joined by horned and pied-billed grebes, common loons and the first wave of double-crested cormorants; American white pelicans, western grebes and summer ducks (such as cinnamon and blue-winged teal) usually arrive by April.  Canada geese, abundant here in winter, decrease throughout March as many return to breeding grounds on the Northern Plains.

Periods of snow and chilly weather will persist through April (and possibly into May) but the parade of seasonal travelers will continue.  Winter ducks and spring migrants often linger into April but, by the end of that month, permanent and summer residents will dominate the scene. 

Donate Blood!

As we go through life, most of us feel the urge to contribute to society as a whole.  Some enter the military or other public service, some become teachers or coaches, some engage in a variety of volunteer services and some focus on donating to charitable organizations.

One choice, open to all who are not too old or ill to participate, is to donate blood.  At some point in our lives, we, or those we care about, may need transfusions due to injuries, the need for surgery or a variety of maladies that impair bone marrow function.

This charitable act can be repeated several times per year at your local Red Cross center.  Your gift will be priceless and the beneficiary, whom you will likely never meet, will be extremely grateful.

What will it Take?

One wonders what King Trump will need to do or say in order to be impeached for a third time.  Openly declaring his support for a Communist dictator while demeaning a Democratic ally would seem to be sufficient but the current Republican Senators seem unfazed.

With every breach of our Constitution and of democratic norms, our King certainly feels more empowered to dismantle American Democracy and move toward autocratic rule.  Unless Republicans develop a moral backbone over the next few years, there may be no Presidential election in 2028.

What if our King openly calls for the arrest or assassination of his political enemies?  What if he sends American troops abroad to expand his kingdom.  What if he keeps cutting funds for medical research, healthcare and vital social services?  Will they act then?  Will our King be impeached and removed from his throne?  One doubts they have the courage. 

The Nature of Friendship

We encounter hundreds, if not thousands, of fellow humans in the course of our lives but relatively few become friends.  During childhood, when we have limited mobility, friends are generally neighbors or school mates.  Later, as a driver's license, employment and advanced education broaden our horizons, we may have friends from across the city, from other regions of the country or from other countries across the globe.

Yet, in all cases, friends tend to be individuals who share our interests, our favored pastimes and our general philosophy of life.  If the friendship does not develop naturally and if we need to work at its survival, it will fade over time.  Of course, today's mobile lifestyle works against long term friendships, which, if sustained, often exist primarily on social media and are reinforced by occasional gatherings.

Nevertheless, friends remain an important part of our lives and, in my opinion, are vital to our overall health.  Unrestrained by the deep-seated, emotional ties of family, they offer companionship, straight-forward feedback and a source of comradery as we face life's challenges.

See also:  Friends & Family and Friendships & Technology  

Months & Seasons

March, like June, September and December, is a month of two seasons.  From a meteorologic (i.e. human) perspective, spring begins on March first while the astronomic (i.e. natural) spring begins on or about March 21 (the spring equinox).

While our distant ancestors paid far more attention to the equinoxes and solstices that mark the beginning of nature's seasons, modern humans have settled on twelve months of variable length that divide our unnatural year.

For that reason, most of March is often more winter-like across central and northern latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere.  This is especially true at higher elevations; here along the Colorado Front Range, March is the snowiest month of the year even as the first wildflowers add welcome color to the drab winter landscape.  Then again, climate change may eventually abolish our concept of seasons altogether. 

Along the Cache la Poudre River

The Cache la Poudre River rises in the northern portion of Rocky Mountain National Park, descends eastward through a beautiful canyon and rumbles onto the Colorado Piedmont just northwest of Fort Collins.  From that city, a paved hike-bike path follows the river as it flows on to Greeley, beyond which it enters the South Platte.

On this sunny, warm but breezy day, my wife and I explored a few nature preserves along the Cache la Poudre Trail, almost all of which were characterized by floodplain grasslands, riparian woodlands and a number of ponds and lakes; the latter, still mostly frozen, are almost all reclaimed gravel pits.

Earthen trails lead away from the paved hike-bike trail, providing up-close encounters with the various habitats.  As one might imagine, we saw a good variety of waterfowl (including hundreds of Canada geese), flocks of ring-billed gulls, a pair of bald eagles and a northern harrier, in addition to the expected woodpeckers and songbirds. 

First Spring Snowstorm

Just as we were recovering from the most recent blast of Arctic air, snow developed in Metro Denver last evening.  By this morning, a foot of fresh powder coated our Littleton farm.

This upslope snowstorm was typical of those we regularly receive in March and April, fueled by a low pressure center along the Colorado-New Mexico border, which swept moisture toward the Front Range.  In this scenario, heavy snow falls in a relatively short period of time, followed by sunshine and warmer air as winds shift back from the west or southwest.

Indeed, we expect an afternoon high near 40 degrees F today, followed by fifties and sixties over the coming week.  Much of the snow will evaporate in the warm, dry air but some will soak in, a vital, seasonal resource in this semiarid ecosystem.

Climate Change & Arctic Blasts

Recurrent Arctic blasts in North America this year surely have some skeptics doubting the evidence of climate change.  Indeed, the latest polar plunge will affect most of the U.S. this week, an unusual event for late February.

Nevertheless, the global climate is warming, polar ice is melting and the seas are rising.  The incursions of Arctic air merely reflect the position of a gyrating jet stream, producing warm "ridges" and cold "troughs."  As mild air flows northward from the Pacific Ocean, it displaces polar air that slides southward within the trough; of course, storm systems form along these dramatic temperature boundaries, producing the heavy snow, flooding rains and severe thunderstorms that we have witnessed this past week.

Warmer ocean waters and a warming atmosphere fuel both the dramatic jet stream gyrations and the power of the storms that they generate.  Periods of intense heat and severe cold can be expected until advanced global warming grips the entire planet, a scenario we need to prevent. 

Ohio Valley Flooding

The latest winter storm, which dropped a quick 4-5 inches of snow along the Front Range yesterday afternoon, raced eastward and brought flooding rains to eastern Kentucky and much of West Virginia.  Of course, the heavily dissected terrain of the Appalachian Plateau exacerbates flooding along streams in that region.

South of the flooding zone, strong thunderstorms raked the Southeast while, north of the rain belt, an ice storm created havoc from the southern Great Lakes to the Atlantic Coast.  Farther north and behind the storm, heavy snow will fall.

February has long been characterized by flooding in the Ohio Valley.  Heavy precipitation, in various forms, falls on frozen ground, producing rapid runoff and stream flooding.  Climate change will likely augment both the intensity of precipitation and the severity of flooding. 

The Topography of Life

In our youth, we tend to imagine that our life will be a gradual, sometimes rugged climb to success, followed by a slow, pleasant descent that comes with retirement and aging.  Such expectations are rarely met.

Rather, our life often resembles a mountain range, with many peaks and valleys, some of which are beyond our control.  Marriage, the birth of children and grandchildren and success in our business or profession are among the high points while failed relationships, health problems and the death of close friends or family members trigger some of the lows.

While our personal responsibility for the valleys of our life may be limited, we are primarily in charge of the ascents, sometimes with the assistance of others (friends, family, professionals).  Understanding that life is characterized by a series of highs and lows helps us anticipate the setbacks and reinforces the importance of developing supportive relationships early in life.

Flashback Post LXIII

On this guilt-ridden holiday of commercialized love, I have chosen to republish a post from Valentine's Day in 2007.

See:  The Nature of Love 

A Dangerous Fiasco

The confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Secretary of Heath and Human Services demonstrates the fear that King Trump has instilled in his loyal Republican Senators.  Why else would this unqualified clown and antivax celebrity be installed in this all important position.

Having no personal background in the healthcare industry and no training in medicine, Kennedy will now oversee the FDA, the CDC and the NIH among other health related institutions.  His confirmation is both inexplicable and dangerous.

Then again, RFK Jr. is the perfect jester for King Trump's Court.  He will perform for the King and Americans will suffer the consequences.  Shame on the Republican Senators. 

Rain threatens Southern California

After a prolonged drought and devastating wildfires, rain will return to Southern California over the next few days.  Unfortunately, it is expected to be too much precipitation within too short of a period.

A Pacific storm is approaching the West Coast, initially directing its stream of moisture toward northern and central California, adding to the Sierra snowpack.  By tomorrow, this band of precipitation will shift southward, unleashing heavy rain across the Los Angeles basin and its surrounding highlands.  Flooding is expected throughout the region and the rain will likely trigger mudslides in the burn areas.

While winter is the rainy season in Southern California, it is arriving too late to prevent wildfires and too soon to allow the burn scars to heal.  Unfortunately, climate change is expected to intensify both drought and flooding across our country and around the globe. 

Winter Fights Back

After a week of relatively mild weather along the Colorado Front Range, winter has reclaimed the landscape.  The most recent Pacific storm has pulled frigid air down from Canada and light snow flurries developed overnight.

Snow accumulation will likely be modest here but, as the storm swirls eastward, significant snowfall is expected to coat the Northern Plains, Upper Midwest, Great Lakes region and New England.  South of the storm track, severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are forecast to blossom across the Gulf Coast States.

February is known for its fickle weather but, in most years, it brings us the first signs of spring; indeed, as climate change progresses, this month may be more closely associated with that season.  For now, we'll have to deal with winter's latest punch, knowing he rarely retreats without a fight. 

Expanding his Kingdom

Not content with deporting immigrants and seeking revenge against those who (rightfully) prosecuted him, King Trump wants to expand his kingdom.  Canada, Panama, Greenland and the Gaza Strip are among his most notable targets.

In some cases, he has expressed his desire to use the U.S. Military in order to force their cooperation.  Then again, I'm sure Trump thinks they might just jump at the chance to benefit from his strong leadership.

Of course, King Trump cannot conceive of the fact that citizens of those countries feel a strong, personal attachment to their homeland.  After all, Trump himself is not a loyal American, having tried to overturn an election and now making every effort to destroy our Constitution.  King Trump cares only about himself and the larger his kingdom the better. 

Bear Creek Lake Park

On this spring-like day along the Front Range, my wife and I visited Bear Creek Lake Park, in Lakewood.  Stretching east from the foothills, the Park fills the valley of Bear Creek.  Most of the territory is covered by open grasslands, though riparian woodlands line the streams.

The Park is a popular destination for bikers, fishermen, horseback riders and walkers; today, a dozen or so ice-fishermen were observed on the ice-covered lake.  Numerous trails provide access to the Park's various ecosystems though the most popular seems to be the path that runs atop the dam, offering a broad view of the foothills to the west (photo) and of Metro Denver to the east.

Wildlife encountered today were limited to deer, Canada geese, magpies and red-tailed hawks but the mild weather, fresh air and pleasant scenery made our visit more than worthwhile.  Visitors arriving by car should know that a modest entry fee is charged. 

Attack on Diversity

King Trump and his soldiers have launched a full-scale attack on human diversity, prohibiting consideration of gender, race and sexuality in all aspects of American life and eliminating protection based on those factors.  Anyone who is not a heterosexual white male may experience the repercussions.

Having immediately blamed the tragic plane crash in Washington, D.C., on DEI policies, our King has sent out threats to all government agencies that any attention to diversity must be eliminated from their work and recommendations.  The consequences of this demand will be widespread, affecting the health, employment and welfare of many Americans.

Based on his own ignorance, racism and misogyny, this edict reflects Trump's self-absorbed view of mankind.  Anyone who does fit the image of a white strong-man is not worthy of support, let alone acknowledgement. 

The Sounds of Winter

Throughout the life of this blog, I have often referred to winter as "the quiet season."  Indeed, once we get away from human activity, we appreciate this silence during the cold, snowy months.  Bird song is suppressed, many animals are hibernating (as adults, larvae or eggs) and most of nature's predators are nocturnal, resting in their dens or cavities during the day.

There are exceptions, of course.  Roving bands of crows, magpies, and blue jays make their presence known and woodpeckers drum away for their meals.  In some areas, where waterfowl, gulls or terns are wintering, they can be quite noisy as well.  Here along the Front Range, Canada geese are the primary noisemakers; comprised of permanent and winter residents and joined by their smaller cousins, cackling geese, their vocal flocks are often heard from a distance, intensifying as they stream overhead.

By the end of this month, the silence will begin to break as male songbirds respond to the lengthening daylight.  Their urgent tunes will then ring through our neighborhoods, announcing the onset of spring. 

The King of Cruelty

While pursuing his lavish lifestyle and personally benefitting from his position and policies, King Trump has cut support for many Federal programs throughout this country and across the globe.  Most of these programs provide essential services for those unable to care for themselves.

Meals-on-Wheels and Head Start are among the many programs threatened by the decree.  While our King wines and dines worshipers from corporations and foreign countries, food and healthcare will be withdrawn from impoverished citizens, including many Veterans.

Having promised to Make America Great Again, Trump's focus is squarely on the welfare of the powerful and self-sufficient members of his kingdom.  In his corrupted point of view, the vermin will disappear when support for their livelihood is withdrawn. 

Flickers Tune Up

As mild weather reclaims the Front Range, the first tentative calls of norther flickers are echoing across our Littleton farm.  Throughout February and March, these prolonged and hysterical calls, combined with intense drumming on dead limbs, downspouts and roof-top vents, will herald the onset of spring.

Such mating behavior is common throughout the animal kingdom but is generally not so obvious.  Indeed, the noisy antics of these large woodpeckers is impossible to ignore.

Nevertheless, their calls and drumming are among the earliest signs of spring, heard long before the season of snow is over (especially here in Colorado).  Though the flickers are responding to the lengthening daylight, their promise of warmer days, greenery and the glories of spring is welcomed by winter-weary humans. 

In Protest

Among his many first-week declarations, King Trump has renamed the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America and Denali (the highest peak in Alaska and in North America) back to Mt. McKinley; this previous name honored President McKinley, from Ohio, who was assassinated and never visited the peak.

More than a petty use of his reclaimed power, these declarations demonstrate Trump's disdain for all non-white cultures as well as his ignorance of history.  Will New Mexico be next on his list?

In protest, I will continue to utilize the appropriate names for geographic features and regions, not the sanitized versions favored by our self-proclaimed King. 

Trump & Climate Change

Today, Donald Trump, a climate change denier, jets off to North Carolina and California to witness two of the most severe climate-induced disasters in recent years.  Whatever he proclaims at those sites, his personal concerns will certainly be disingenuous.

Upon taking office, Trump withdrew from the Paris Climate Accord, eliminated federal support for electric vehicles and encouraged energy executives to increase oil and gas production.  This strong-man approach is mirrored in all of Trump's policies, from immigration to social programs and international relationships.

Trump could care less about the welfare of future generations.  Fortunately, energy company executives understand the risk of climate change and have fostered efforts to improve carbon capture and to expand the use of green energy sources.  Here in the U.S., the private sector must protect the environment from right-wing, anti-science zealots; that may sound naive but it is our only source of hope for the near future.  

Flashback Post LXII

During the recent stretch of cold, snowy weather, whenever I went out to explore the farm, I was reminded of a post that I published back in December, 2006.

See: In Praise of Chickadees 

A Time for Vigilance

As Donald Trump retakes the Presidency today, many of us will avoid his speeches and pontifications as much as possible; we cannot stomach the opinions and comments of a pompous narcissist, renowned for his lying and grifting.  We accept the election results but have no respect for the victorious candidate; the fact that his inauguration is occurring on Martin Luther King Day only adds to our profound disgust.

Hopefully, the Senate will neutralize his more dangerous and unqualified cabinet picks, House Democrats will block legislation that endangers our freedoms and State Governors will refuse to enforce his un-American policies.

Vigilance is imperative at all levels of government as a would-be dictator assumes power.  We citizens must vigorously support the opposition, including organizations that work to protect human rights and the health of our natural environment.  We need not listen to this failed seditionist but we must stay informed regarding his actions and intentions. 

Snow before the Arctic Blast

Following several mild, sunny days along the Front Range, snow is expected to arrive this evening and last through much of tomorrow.  It will develop along the leading edge of the latest Polar Vortex as it sinks across the Heartland, eventually bringing freezing temperatures as far south as the northern Gulf Coast.

When these domes of dense, Arctic air plunge southward, they often track east of the High Plains, guided by the topography of the Continent.  On occasion, as will occur this week, they back up against the Front Range and slide southward along the mountains.  In general, this pattern brings frigid air to the urban corridor but does not usually produce much snow.

On the other hand, the cold, dense air may sit in place for several days until displaced by a new Pacific Front.  Unfortunately, the intense Colorado sunshine pierces the atmosphere at a low angle in mid winter and adds little warmth under such conditions. 

Fox in the Moonlight

Leaving our farmhouse early this morning, I was taken by the shadows on the snow-covered ground, produced by the waning Wolf Moon.  Just as I climbed into my pickup, our resident red fox trotted across the property, oblivious of my presence.

Absent for some time, she was clearly out for a pre-dawn hunt.  Now that she has returned, our cottontail population will crash once again, a cycle I have witnessed over the past two decades.

I'm rather fond of both species but nature has her hierarchy and, on our farm, the fox is at the top of the food chain (unless, of course, a coyote wanders in).  Though she may have a suitor by next month and cubs by spring, she appears content to live in peace for now. 

Toward the Wolf Moon

When I left Hays, Kansas, early this morning, the bright Wolf Moon gleamed from the western sky.  Just below and to its right was Mars, rather dim due to the intense moonlight.

As the sun rose, Mars disappeared altogether but the full moon remained visible, guiding me westward across the High Plains.  By the time I entered the Mountain Time Zone, in western Kansas, the moon had set.  Nevertheless, I still imagined its beauty farther west, adorning the magnificent scenery of the Mountain West.

Indeed, the title Wolf Moon was especially appropriate on this clear, cold morning, knowing that its namesake was likely howling at its bright disc and using this natural nightlight to aid the early morning hunt. 

Snows in the Snow II

Heading back to Colorado, I drove across snow-covered terrain from Columbia, Missouri, all the way to Hays, Kansas, where I will spend the night.  Bright sunshine and a deep blue sky combined with the snow to make the landscape look deceptively pristine.

With all due respect to the many hawks (mostly red-tails) that hunted along the Interstate, the highlight of my journey was a large flock of snow geese, resting and feeding in crop stubble west of Topeka.  Were it not for the brief flight of a restless goose, searching for a better spot in the crowd, I would likely not have noticed the flock.

So, finally, I have encountered migrant geese this season.  Whether they were tardy autumn migrants, early spring migrants or just wintering in that region of Kansas is uncertain.  Whatever brought them to that field is immaterial; it was a pleasure to have seen them.

Note:  The first post titled Snows in the Snow was published in March of 2015. 

Trees Native to Hawaii

Watching a PGA tournament from Oahu this afternoon, I began to wonder how many trees are native to that remote Pacific archipelago.  I thus consulted Common Forest Trees of Hawaii by Elbert L. Little and Roger G. Skolmen of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (available online).

Before reading the article, I assumed that few of Hawaii's trees are native to the islands due to their remote location and relatively young age (10 million years or so); I was wrong.  In fact, Hawaii leads all U.S. States in its number of native tree species.  At least 300 grace the islands, thought to have evolved from 78 unique species that arrived over the years; genetic testing suggests that 45 arrived from the West or Southwest (Indo-Pacific region), 16 from the South Pacific and 7 from North America.

The seeds are thought to have arrived on floating vegetation, via seabird droppings or on the winds of powerful hurricanes.  Of course, the lush vegetation of present-day Hawaii also includes a large number of trees introduced by early Polynesian settlers, by European explorers and by modern-day humans.  Of note, 18 of the many palm species found today are native to Hawaii.

Southern Snowstorm expands Northward

The most recent snowstorm, forecast to spread from northeast Texas to the Mid-Atlantic region, is taking in more real estate than expected.  Here in central Missouri, we were initially thought to be on the northern fringe of the passing storm but received more snow overnight than we did with last week's storm, when we were squarely in the bullseye.

Indeed, snow is falling across the southern States, from Arkansas to the Carolinas, but the breath of the snowfall is now expected to reach northward to the Great Lakes.  Apparently, the storm has more strength than expected, a development that will be all too common as our climate warms.

The snowfall in our region will likely end by late morning but some of the system's more dangerous effects will come in the form of an ice storm along the southern edge of the snow swath.  As wildfires rage in the west, ice may cripple some areas of the Southeast. 

Disasters, Risk & Questions

As the California wildfires reach epic proportions, we mourn the tragic loss for so many residents and businesses and, if we can, donate to relief efforts that might ease the pain of those affected.  We have seen such disasters before but not to this extent.

The same might be said for losses related to floods, hurricanes, mudslides and other natural disasters.  As we know, the frequency and severity of these events will significantly increase as our climate warms.  Yet, once the immediate danger subsides, we humans insist on rebuilding in high risk zones: dry forest canyons, barrier islands, floodplains and coastal lowlands, among others.

The drive to restore one's home and community is understandable but how many rounds will occur before we abandon these areas?  Santa Ana winds, severe hurricanes, extensive flooding, prolonged drought and wildfires will continue to occur and their effects will only worsen.  Perhaps it is time to face reality and restrict construction in high risk terrain; while some disasters, such as tornados, might ravage any city or community, others are predictable, based on regional weather patterns, ecology and topography. 

A Murder at Midday

It was a beautiful afternoon in Columbia.  Bright sunshine reflected from the snowy landscape and the clear, cold air was peacefully calm.  Then, a murder ended the tranquility.

A large, noisy flock of crows has been wandering about our neighborhood for the past few days.  Fifty or more of these aggressive omnivores have joined together in search of food.  Not at all unusual during the winter months, such behavior is especially beneficial when snow and ice coat the landscape.

Despite their boisterous style, this murder of crows is welcome to stay as long as necessary.  As I have expressed in the past, I admire and appreciate their role in nature's cycle of life. 

Facebook, Truth & Politics

Facebook, the largest social media site on the planet, has decided to get rid of its fact-checking team.  While the excuse seems to be that their service is too cumbersome and expensive, one suspects that this move is another effort to curry favor with the upcoming Trump Administration.

Unfortunately, many Americans get their news on Facebook and the second reign of King Trump will be the source of countless lies and conspiracy theories.  When we need the protection of truth the most, Facebook has declined to participate.

Ironically, this decision comes at a time when Artificial Intelligence might be effectively utilized to weed out disinformation.  Apparently, Mark Zuckerberg is more concerned about appeasing MAGA Republicans than he is with publishing the truth.

Note: Facebook is a subsidiary of Meta Platforms, Inc. 

Remembering a Friend

A friend of mine died recently.  He had been a fellow professor at the University of Missouri (though not in the medical field) and died unexpectedly, in his 80s.  Since I did not know his family well, the news of his death did not reach me for a few weeks.

We had initially met at one of the ovals on campus where both of us chose to eat our lunch outdoors.  As it turned out, we had a lot in common, especially regarding our philosophy of life and our fondness for the Mountain West.  In time, he had discovered this blog and his interest was truly an honor.  

He was a kind and thoughtful person and his influence will live on in my life.  What more can we hope to achieve with those we come to know? 

The Storm Arrives

The first sign of this major winter storm was the tapping of sleet against our windows overnight.  By this morning, we had received more sleet than snow in central Missouri and accumulations were modest in this region.

Periods of sleet and snow continued throughout the day but, as Arctic air filters down from the north, the precipitation has changed to all snow.  Indeed, as I write this post, a band of moderate to heavy snowfall stretches from eastern Kansas to Washington DC.  South of that band, an ice storm is placing power lines at risk and, farther south, severe thunderstorms are raking the Gulf Coast States.

Whether we reach our forecast total of a foot or more of snow remains uncertain but one must acknowledge the accuracy of the Weather Service models; seemingly off base this morning their predictions are coming to fruition this evening. 

Before the Polar Plunge

Expecting heavy snow and Arctic air in central Missouri over the coming week, I decided a visit to Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area was in order.  To my surprise, there was more open water at the refuge than I have observed in a year or more; no doubt, most of it will be frozen over after the approaching storm.

The variety and number of waterfowl was fair, dominated by mallards once again.  As is often the case in winter, raptors proved to be the highlight, including an adult bald eagle, three northern harriers, three red-tailed hawks, an American kestrel and what I believe to have been a peregrine falcon (based on its size and shape); the latter was backlit by the bright sun and too distant to identify with certainty.

Remarkably, I did not encounter any red-winged blackbirds during my visit, a first in my many years of touring Eagle Bluffs.  Of course, neither did I observe any migrant geese, another seasonal first for this frustrated birder. 

Winter gets Serious

The first half of January will be marked by a "polar plunge" as a deep atmospheric trough brings Arctic air to most of the central and eastern U.S.  Some areas will also receive a significant amount of snow, especially in the "lake-effect" areas of the Great Lakes region.

Here in central Missouri, the snow will not arrive until this coming weekend but the extreme cold is expected to persist through all of next week.  If current forecasts are correct, we could receive up to 18 inches of snow.

As our climate warms, average annual temperatures will continue to climb but they will represent a mix of extreme heat and brutally cold periods, superimposed on "typical" seasonal patterns.  An energized jet stream will be responsible for the dramatic shifts and for the severity of storms that they produce. 

Another Revolution

New Year's Day is an arbitrary choice to mark the beginning of Earth's orbit around the Sun; it does not coincide with a solstice or an equinox.  Nevertheless,  it is an emotional day for most humans since we measure our lives by years and reaching another one is always an accomplishment.

Of course, some revolutions are more important than others, affording new, society-based opportunities; 16, 18, and 21 trips around the sun are important mileposts in America.  Then there are anniversaries, marking the longevity of marriages, employment and, most importantly, life itself.  For those dealing with the threat of illness or advanced age, each revolution is a gift.

So, on this unnatural starting line for another revolution, I wish everyone a safe, pleasant and rewarding journey.