The change of seasons from summer to autumn brings out new colors in the countryside and residential areas. The transformation of tones and highlights depends on the region of the country and the species putting on the show. Here in north Florida, the bright fall hues are primarily contributed by the bountiful wildflower bloom. Annuals…Read more
Kermit the Frog, Muppet philosopher and foil for Miss Piggy, has been quoted as saying, “It’s not easy bein’ green”. It does not take much imagination to appreciate the potential multiple meanings of this statement. Political and environmental sustainability implications aside, a straightforward interpretation of the statement reveals an obvious truth. The existence of tiny…Read more
It is a situation which has been repeated countless time over the course of recorded history in countries and continents across the globe. In all likelihood the scenario occurred, albeit on a much smaller scale, in the days which predated the written accountings of the destruction. An assemblage gathered with the sole objective to pillage…Read more
Being on top is usually a good position. It is the place which denotes exceptional accomplishment and has the best view, especially of those below who are looking up in anticipation of reaching the pinnacle. Starting at the top is substantially rarer. There are historical examples, but they are very few which frequently arose with…Read more
Being able to walk on water implies a very special set of talents for any individual. Given the Biblical reference, it infers to the recipient a level of perfection far exceeding those of mere mortals. This appellation is commonly applied to sports figures who are having an exceptional year. It also has been assigned to…Read more
It has been a refrain heard throughout the centuries and likely originating during the Neolithic epoch. “Eat your vegetables,” is the anthem of almost every parent during mealtime when juveniles are involved. While there are many green substances on the plate which are perceived as offensive by the progeny, peas are known for their repulsive…Read more
Those who are fortunate enough to be able to travel internationally usually return home having had many new and vastly different experiences. The stark dissimilarities are especially noticeable when traveling in Asia’s far eastern locales. While the 21st century’s shared technologies have homogenized much of daily life, there are still some unique cultural practices and…Read more
Large families are always an interesting collection of individuals with curious and occasionally unique characteristics, but they still have a common connection running through all the relations. Getting members together reveals both the similarities and the differences. Holiday get togethers frequently highlight the vast variations. There is always the crazy uncle with the tacky jokes,…Read more
Standing above one’s peers has several advantages. In most cases, the tall individual will be immediately noticed and usually recognized, hopefully for positive and refined qualities. The elevated individual eventually attracts those with similar attributes in both altitude and other features. This collection has been referred to by a variety of terms. If a positive…Read more
The middle of summer, late July and August, is the time north Florida residents see the largest numbers of adult eastern lubber grasshoppers. The females are seeking appropriate places to lay their eggs, and their large size and distinctive markings make them easily visible. The eggs from which these grasshoppers hatched were deposited in the…Read more
