Brinkman Bog Nature Preserve

Old Mission Peninsula is known for its scenic views, rolling hills, sandy beaches, a lighthouse and of course–its vineyards. Set between the East and West Bays (part of Lake Michigan), the peninsula is uniquely situated, which, turns out, is quite ideal for growing grapes. Over the past few years, these vineyards have been producing some world-renowned […]

Season’s Greetings

Other than politics, the one topic that can– guaranteed– stir the emotions of many, is the weather. This is, of course, true of many in Northern Michigan. Especially winter and its cold weather. Just the brief mention of the word snow is enough to send someone into a theatrical fear. “Don’t say the ‘S’ word!” Ya know…the […]

Joy

As a professional photographer, I am, of course, keen on working with equipment that provides the results I envision in my mind. And more often than not, I find myself using my bridge cameras to do so. Why would a professional photographer bother with a bridge camera to capture the fleeting moments that are to never […]

Ransom Lake Natural Area

This visit to Ransom Lake was planned on the drive home from the visit the week prior (being October 1st). As of the 1st of October, the leaves on the deciduous trees had just begun to reveal their fall splendor. Peeks of reds, oranges and golds adorned the landscape. This is why I decided to […]

A Lofty Goal

Northern Michigan is a special place. It seems that no matter where you find yourself on a map, a preserve, natural area or recreational (or historical) park is not too far away…easily at a distance that would make for an unforgettable day trip. These protected areas are host to myriad habitats and species…each area just as […]

A Bit of Northern Michigan

Northern Michigan is known for its ‘sudden’ weather shifts. The morning may be quite rainy and humid. Later that morning, the winds can shift, causing a cold front to move in. And later that evening, the skies suddenly begin to rumble far off in the distance. All seems benign…until exiting the cover of the forest. The […]

The Red Oak: An Old Friend

In my absence from my blog, I have been enjoying numerous hikes around the Grand Traverse region. And during these hikes, I have been quite taken with the myriad tree species that call Northern Michigan home. Both conifers and deciduous varieties coexist among the rolling hills, the pristine shores and secluded wetlands. It is this species […]