#wildflowers of southern ontario

[wildflowers-of-southern-ontario]

Garter Snake Thamnophis sirtalis Colubridae

Photographs taken on July 28, 2023, at Marmora and Lake, Ontario, Canada.

#wildflowers of southern ontario #fauna #Garter Snake #snake #Thamnophis sirtalis #Thamnophis #Colubridae #marmora and lake #ontario #canada

[loosestrifee]

summer nature walks near the lake

#original photographers #my photgraphy #photography #photographer #nature photography #ontario #southern ontario #flower #flowers #wildflowers #summer #nature #plants #bee #sony #sony a6400 #green #yellow #purple #leaves

[skogjeger]

White Sage | Salvia Apiana ❁ཻུ۪۪ ━ 

‧₊˚.  : · •.  * • ˚   . · * ✶   : · •  *   ˚ ✵

In this discussion, we will delve into the fascinating aspects of white sage: its unique properties, natural habitat, and the reasons behind its one-day endangered status and revered significance. The following information is intended purely for educational purposes and is derived from extensive research, including diverse perspectives on the utilization of this herb in various practices. If anything sounds off or sounds incorrect, do not be afraid to let me know, however, please be respectful when pointing something out.

𖤣𖥧˚ Family

"White Sage is a member of the mint family (family Lamiaceae), which includes aromatic herbs or shrubs (rarely trees or vines), usually with stems square in cross-section, four-sided.There are about 200 genera and 3,200 species, distributed nearly worldwide. The Mediterranean region, the chief area of diversity, produces many spices and flavorings, such as various mints, oregano, marjoram, thyme, sage, and basil. Catnip and lavender are in the mint family." - Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

𖤣𖥧˚ Appearance

White sage is a tall, woody shrub that can reach heights of several feet. This sprawling plant typically measures around 3-4 feet in height and 4-5 feet in width. Its distinguishing feature is its long, slender leaves that have a silvery-white colour, which is why it is called white sage. The plant produces small, white or pale lavender flowers on tall spikes during the blooming season.

𖤣𖥧˚ Native Habitat

White sage is native to the southwestern United States and northern Baja, Mexico. It may also be found along the lower edges and in openings of chaparral and oak woodlands. White sage can even be found in Canada under specific conditions. In Canada, white sage can be grown as a perennial herb in regions with similar climates to its native habitats, such as parts of British Columbia or southern Ontario. 

White sage is adapted to a Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. It thrives in areas with long, dry periods and requires plenty of sunlight. The plant is well-suited to sandy or rocky soils and can tolerate drought conditions. It is often found growing in arid or semi-arid regions with low to moderate rainfall. 

𖤣𖥧˚ Planet/Sign Associations for Sage

This pertains to sage in a general sense, rather than specifically referring to white sage.

Planet: Jupiter

Sign(s): Sagittarius, Pisces, Gemini, Cancer, Scorpio

𖤣𖥧˚ Properties and Benefits of White Sage

Insect Repellent: The aromatic compounds found in white sage have natural insect-repellent properties. Rubbing or burning dried sage leaves or using white sage essential oils can help repel mosquitoes, flies, and other pests.

Respiratory Support: White sage is often used to address respiratory issues such as colds, coughs, sore throats, and congestion. It is believed to have expectorant properties, helping to loosen mucus and alleviate respiratory discomfort.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: White sage is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties. It may be used topically or in the form of a poultice to soothe skin irritations, insect bites, and minor wounds.

Digestive Aid: White sage has been used to support digestion and relieve gastrointestinal discomfort. It is sometimes consumed as a tea to promote digestive health.

Calming and Relaxing Effects: The aroma of burning white sage is often considered to have a calming and relaxing effect. It is sometimes used for stress reduction and relaxation.

𖤣𖥧˚ Warnings and Precautions

Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic to white sage. If you have known allergies to plants in the Lamiaceae family (such as mint, basil, or oregano), it is advisable to exercise caution when using or being exposed to white sage.

Smoke Inhalation: Burning white sage releases smoke, which can be irritating to the respiratory system, particularly for individuals with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions. Ensure proper ventilation when cleansing or using white sage smoke and be mindful of the amount and duration of exposure.

Pregnancy and Nursing: The safety of using white sage during pregnancy or while breastfeeding has not been extensively studied. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using white sage in these circumstances.

Skin Sensitivity: Applying white sage directly to the skin may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it more extensively. Discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur.

𖤣𖥧˚ Why White Sage Is At Risk

White sage is primarily at risk due to habitat loss, over-harvesting, and unsustainable collection practices. Native bees heavily rely on white sage as a vital source of sustenance. However, the act of extracting seeds from sage plants by poachers not only disrupts the delicate balance but also leads to a decline in the population of indigenous bee species within the Golden State. The overwhelming majority of white sage items available for purchase have been obtained through poaching. Which means it is not ethically sourced. While white sage isn't endangered, it is in danger of becoming endangered. It's not so much that it is "scarce" but rather it will become so in the future.

Other factors on why white sage is at risk or a bullet-point list to hit major points (a TL;DR):

Unsustainable Collection Practices: Some harvesting practices of white sage involve uprooting the entire plant, which prevents it from regenerating and can lead to population decline. Additionally, unethical or unsustainable collection methods, such as illegal harvesting or removing plants from protected areas, further contribute to the risk of white sage.

Overharvesting: White sage has gained popularity in recent years for its use in smudging rituals, leading to increased demand.

Climate Change: Climate change, with its associated effects like temperature increases, altered precipitation patterns, and more frequent and severe droughts, poses a threat to the survival of white sage.

Lack of Natural Regeneration: White sage has limited natural regeneration capabilities. Its seeds have low germination rates, and the plant relies heavily on specific conditions for successful establishment. With habitat degradation and disturbance, the opportunities for the natural regeneration of white sage are diminished.

Rather than purchasing commercialized white sage, cultivating your own or receiving it as a gift from someone known for ethically sourcing it is the optimal approach to many aspects of this matter. It can be a proactive approach and one that benefits many.

𖤣𖥧˚ What You Can Do to Protect or Preserve White Sage

Cultivate Responsibly: If you have the means and space, consider growing white sage in your garden or on your property. This can help reduce the need for wild harvesting. Ensure you obtain seeds or cuttings from reputable sources to ensure genetic diversity and authenticity.

Spread Awareness: Share your knowledge about white sage and the need for sustainable practices with others. Encourage respectful and responsible approaches to its use and cultivation.

Support Indigenous Communities: Purchase white sage from Indigenous-owned businesses or directly from Indigenous communities that cultivate and sell it sustainably. This supports their traditional practices and livelihoods while ensuring the responsible management of white sage.

Seek Alternatives: Explore alternatives to white sage for spiritual practices and cleansing. There are several other plants, such as rosemary, cedar, eucalyptus, mugwort, green sage, purple sage, lavender, pine, and desert sage that can be used as substitutes.

𖤣𖥧˚ Spiritual and Traditional Significance

The profound spiritual and ancestral meaning of white sage holds great significance in various indigenous cultures, particularly within Native American traditions. Although this herb is not exclusive to indigenous communities, it is the ritualistic practice surrounding it that holds paramount importance.

While smoke cleansing is a practice found across cultures with different plants and herbs, the term "smudging" specifically refers to the Indigenous tradition and should be approached with respect and understanding. To ensure cultural sensitivity and avoid appropriation, it is advisable to educate oneself on how native communities perform this ritual, explore alternative practices, or, if uncertain, simply refrain from incorporating it. In the realm of closed practices, initiation or invitation becomes a vital component, accompanied by a rich tapestry of diverse ceremonies and customs that differ among various tribal communities.

Here are some of the spiritual and traditional practices associated with the use of white sage:

Smudging: The act of smudging is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of numerous First Nations, the Indigenous and Native American peoples. This ancient practice entails the sacred burning of various medicinal plants obtained from the Earth, such as sweetgrass, sage, tobacco and cedar. By partaking in a smudge, individuals engage in a purifying ritual aimed at dispelling negativity, alleviating anxieties, and transcending any lingering gloom or emotional distress. Ultimately, the purpose is to restore well-being and empower oneself to thrive.

Cleansing Rituals: White sage is often used in various cleansing rituals to purify individuals, living spaces, ceremonial tools, and sacred objects. This can be done by waving the smoke over the body or around the area or object being cleansed, with the intention of removing stagnant or negative energies.

Prayer and Meditation: White sage is sometimes used in prayer and meditation practices to create a sacred and purified space. Burning white sage can be accompanied by prayers, affirmations, or specific intentions, fostering a focused and spiritually receptive state of mind.

Source(s) & Article(s) ❁ཻུ۪۪ ━

‧₊˚.  : · •.  * • ˚   . · * ✶   : · •  *   ˚ ✵

Nature Collective's article on White Sage:

Flowers by the Sea's article on White Sage:

National Library of Medicine's article on White Sage:

WebMD's article on sage (not just white sage):

The Canadian Encyclopedia's page on "smudging":

MilkBath's article on smoke cleansing in different parts of the world:

Ya-Native's article on what smudging is and the practices:

Here's a YouTube video where Revolutionary Mystic talks about issues and what to do in terms of supporting Indigenous folks:

For some reason it says "age-restricted" so if that appears for you, here's the hyperlink: 10 Things Non-Native American folks need to hear (especially spiritual white folks)

#white sage #plants #herbs #sage #lavender #cedar #mugwort #smoke cleansing #indigenous #indigenous people #native american #first nations #witchblr #eclectic witch #beginner witch #witchcraft #spirituality #paganblr #paganism #neopaganism #herbology #natural medicine #research #smudging #chemistry #purple sage #desert sage #awareness #educational #THIS IS TO BRING AWARENESS TO WHITE SAGE

[lockhartnichols38]

Koh Samui And Koh Pangan - Wonderful Destinations In Thailand

The province is here is where hula endangered and rare nature. In my opinion the most breathtaking scenery is on the Tutukaka Coastline. Silvery fall and Cane Bridge are fantastic tourist spots in Sapa. Known for - Birds of Prey, wilderness camps, over fifty waterholes along side tourist roads and in the camps, fantastic shows of wildflowers, which includes devil's claw in summer, and excellent photographic opportunities of animals and surroundings. View More: topvinhlongaz.com - Top Vinh Long AZ Reviewed by Team Leader in Top Vinh Long AZ: Nguyễn Minh Quý - Nguyen Minh Quy In November, when the snow-white blossoms of the Huangshan Gong Chrysanthemums cover the products. When dried, this flower's blossoms develop a wonderful herbal tea. They were a tribute tea in Qing Empire. Le-Mans Cathedrale St.Julien will be the finest and biggest religious building of that kinds. Off the 11th century, the oldest parts in the cathedral are known for St.Julien who had boasted some magnificent glass windows and very finely carved doorway at its southern entrance. Finally its amazing and beautiful tapestries and Frescoes insure that it is one of the most extremely visited regions by the tourists.

View More: topvinhlongaz.com - Top Vinh Long AZ

Reviewed by Team Leader in Top Vinh Long AZ: Nguyễn Minh Quý - Nguyen Minh Quy Xinan River in She County, Anhui Province is by the junction of your Lianjiang and Jianjiang Brooks. Due to its splendid landscapes, this a-hundred-kilometer long river is reputed to be a gallery water and hills. All along this river, there become the ancient buildings of the local people; white-painted with black friday 2010 tiles, these buildings are surrounded by bamboo groves and lush plant time. On the other side of the river, niche markets . fishing boats leisurely gliding down the river, and cormorants sometimes appears diving into the river to hook fish for his keepers. Appears like a Chinese painting come a person's. Most popularly known as Helicopter island, Dilumacad island offers Vinh Long in Viet Nam stretch of powdery pristine beach. Tin tuc Top Vinh Long AZ Could potentially be the last island inside of the itinerary. Many tourists would spend the intricate process of the afternoon at maui just lying around and getting a tan. Hong Kong Park a lot small beautiful island from the nature, a breath of freash air inside the urban associated with Hong Kong. In the park you can find a number of old garrison buildings built between 1842 and 1910. They the remains of mighty Great British Empire rule. Beach - Koh Samui has very beautiful beaches around. Some popular beaches that visitors love commit are Chaweng beach and Lamai beach. Some others are Nar Ton beach, Tong Yang beach, Mae Nam beach and Cherng Mon beach. One on the top ten Vietnam holiday destinations is probably the most popular seaside resort in order to as the capital of scotland - Nha Trang. If need your name to see beautiful beaches and clear sand, this city unquestionably one of the best places to opt. The great outdoors. One thing Canadians love is camping, and the province of Ontario carries a number of camping grounds, conservation areas, parks, and recreational spaces to keep the love for the great outdoors alive. Even though you aren't a camper, Ontario is among the most beautiful provinces in the world, for the reason that offers a herbal oasis and a gorgeous summer climate yet not be matched any place else in Ontario. It's a key reason why property to be found in Ontario goes fast, Canadians know it all! Sapa excellent for for summer holidays. Might be a garden town choice. It has precious medicinal plants and fruits tree since plum, pear and apple. Silvery fall and Cane Bridge are the wonderful tourist spots in Sapa. If you might be here solely for vacation purposes you can enjoy the beach side or perfect opt in which to stay away through beach. The the lovely weather you'll rest assured that does not matter what your plans are while in Durban a person can will indeed have an attractive time. You'll view the antique colonial buildings or visit fun fares or water theme parks. You can also visit the flea markets that are close on the oceanfront also as close to the harbor, which will provide a shopping experience escalating filled with bargains.

This small city on the province Andalusia is popular amongst the elite tourists from Nations. That is sufficient to let you know that beautiful this city is really. This city, like other elements Spain has some own story. According to archeological evidence, history of area can be traced to Neolithic time frame. History also says that the city got its name 'Marbella' during the Muslim signal. It was a tiny village with only about 900 inhabitants not long ago; that's in the entire year 1940. Now it has transformed itself into a very popular tourist spot. What is so unique that city? The Zhou Dynasty was between 1027 B.C. and 221 B.C. and was created the chieftain in the Zhou Tribe. The chieftain overthrew getting ruler of the Shang Empire. That is when the Zhou Dynasty was launched. He lived in Hao, which at this time was the capital of Tiongkok. Hao is located around the Xi'an city in the Shaanxi region. Majorelle's villa is also in the neighborhood. Designed by Henri Sauvage in 1901, more affordable stained-glass windows created by Jacques Gruber Vinh Long in Viet Nam the Japonism structure. The villa is another one of Nancy's Art Nouveau presents. Of course, the Mekong River or Mekong Delta should participate in your tour to Vietnam. Tin tức Top Vĩnh Long AZ This lush area is the source of up to half in the agricultural output of Vietnam. Many villages in the delta are available through the river rather than a highway. While in Bohol, every one in a date really need to visit various tourist spots such as the "Chocolate Hills", thousands limestone formations that like "Hershey's Kisses" as well as the Philippine Tarsier, the world's second smallest primate. The Chief is carbohydrates are the next largest granite monolith in the world and its the ideal nesting habitat for the Peregrine Falcon, making for nice bird and view. Nesting season is from March to July and visitors must obey posted closures of climbing techniques. Now, a few of the this intricate archipelago, shall we? First up are the peaceful islands of Done Det and Done Khone. Make sure not to fall your trap of lazing more or less. The area is in order to do that to people. Head for the Lippi Waterfalls, any nearby sacred site believed to hook bad spirits followed from your majestic Khone Papheng, home loan houses waterfall in Southeast Tibet. See the tranquil Mekong River crumple to the seething, rapid surges whilst it fans out into the delta. This particular soothing assemble the 4000 Island archipelago it's? If you wish to extend your stay here, just phone us. Good business sense. A positive aspect areas from the country, the unemployment rate in Ontario is fairly low. The province is alive and well from an economic standpoint, and the thriving business sector proves just in which. This is a place where commuters are a buzz along with also province has over 260 headquarters for both national and international solutions. If you want to obtain ahead inside your career, Ontario is the place to be, which is the reason property available in Ontario goes snappy. While in Bohol, both date may want to visit various tourist spots such as the "Chocolate Hills", thousands limestone formations that like "Hershey's Kisses" along with the Philippine Tarsier, the world's second smallest primate. View More: topvinhlongaz.com - Top Vinh Long AZ Reviewed by Team Leader in Top Vinh Long AZ: Nguyễn Minh Quý - Nguyen Minh Quy Written By Author in topvinhlongaz.com: Lê Diệu Thi - Le Dieu Thi Written By Author in topvinhlongaz.com.com: Nguyễn Thanh Ngân - Nguyen Thanh Ngan

#Top Vinh Long AZ #Vinh Long #Vinh Long Viet Nam

[czenvs3000f23]

Unit 5 Blog

No prompt for this week!

Since this week's unit focuses on nature interpretation through science, I thought it'd be nice to reflect on some of my experience with this lens applied. To me, science is a huge part of nature interpretation and without it, I don't think we would be necessarily able to interpret effectively.

I'm a big advocate for southern Ontario's natural heritage. I know typically this isn't a specific hotspot that environment lovers bend over backward for, but I would actually beg to disagree. Sure it's not as visually stunning as some other biomes around the world but I would say that it's just as dynamic.

There's a certain joy I get when I'm able to correctly identify a native wildflower or tree. It's a little bit of a pat on the back, and an assurance of my knowledge. However, it creates this connection between me and the landscape I call home. Appreciation for the little things, like certain ecosystem dynamics, migratory birds that are due south for the winter, and local carnivorous plants that you can find in your own backyard, culminate into this profound feeling of astonishment. I live in constant awe that we get to live in a place where we experience four seasons. Right now in the heart of October, the leaves are turning into vibrant hues of orange, deep crimson, and bright yellow. There's a chill in the air, hallmarks of colder weather ahead as we broach December.

I think my favourite season is actually the absence of seasons. I love the transition of when it's not really summer but it's also not really fall or when winter melts into spring. Here at this time, we really see change. Physical, behavioral, you name it. Things are growing, things are dying-- it's really fascinating to see.

Being able to harness this knowledge and relay it in an interpretative manner is critical for gaining support for climate change mitigation movements. People aren't going to feel a compulsion to conserve something they don't care about. That's why we have to start fostering this connection in children early. I feel like there's this big lack of environmental education within schools in general. I remember in grade 6 science there was supposed to be a unit on ecology and I was so excited to learn about this in a traditional school setting. However, we spent so much time on other units (planes, and electricity I think) that we had to skip ecology altogether. My peers who might not have the same passions as me probably didn't seek this knowledge for themselves. Which later in life, could lead to indifference to climate issues just based on ignorance.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that learning about the science of where we are right now, is instrumental for nature interpretation. Really emphasizing the majesty of northern temperate forests will hopefully inspire members of the community to take more active roles in terms of education, activism, and appreciation.

[jraenvs3000f21]

Describe your current relationship with nature. How has this developed/evolved? Who offered you “a sense of place,” as described in our textbook?

Salutations, fellow members of Group 5! My name is James and I’m in Year 4/5 in the Environmental Science program.

Growing up in the concrete world of suburban Southern Ontario, my personal interpretation of ‘nature’ existed as the wilderness I saw in nature documentaries and up north in the Algonquin highlands. I used to think of camping as conquering nature. I now know that ‘mastering of the elements’ comes with knowledge.

In what to this day may be the most important experience of my life, I had the privilege of spending two weeks inside the Grand Canyon when I was thirteen. I had never experienced anything like it, and I have not since. The world of the desert was completely different - I was seeing and feeling things completely foreign to me every day. There were no clouds. The days were viciously hot, and the nights alarmingly cold. My skin started to crack and bleed. I don’t think I saw a leaf for sixteen days. I was completely in love with it – this world of yellow and orange and brown flooded my mind and fueled a curiosity that no day of class ever got to see.

This is where my concept of ‘sense of place’ began – in the farthest possible place from my home. Nature was not something to be conquered, it was an area to be understood. I started to learn more about the canyon and its natural and cultural history. I became obsessed with the cacti, and by the end of the trip I could identify nearly every species we saw. One of the trip guides happened to live a separate life as a geology professor, and gave lectures to the group. Every layer in stone had something to say about the past, and the flow of the river could help describe the future. Or something like that – most of what he said went over my preteen head, but the concept stayed in my mind. The landscape told a story, and explained the way that things work today just as they did back then. Human impacts were apparent even here, at the bottom of the world. The water in the Colorado river was too cold to swim in, even for a seasoned Canadian. Because the dam upstream collected water from the bottom of the river, the flow beyond it is ice cold.

We live in an area dominated not by dryness and tributaries, but by glaciers that have long since receded. The clues are still here today. I continue to attempt to be for others – as well as myself – what that trip was for me. Why do all the hills in the fields on the way to Erin point the same way? Where did all the caves at Rattlesnake Point come from? I take people out into the middle of nowhere with my telescope and let them see the craters on the moon for the first time. I dig holes at the beach and watch them fill with water, to prove yet again that there are rivers under our feet.

After four years I still have so much to learn about the places I cherish and why they are they way they are. My relationship with nature is very intimate today. I am constantly hiking, and trying to identify all the cool wildflowers and bugs that catch my attention. I know that cities are constantly surrounded by nature, and you just need to know where to look.

-

-

I interpreted the phrase ‘who gave you your sense of place’ to mean when I found my own connection to land and its story, separate from connection to where I’m from. What is your take on this? Does anyone have a similar inciting incident?

#envs3000 #rock fan club #arizona

[rohunter97]

When To Plant Flowers In Canada

When to plant blossoms in Canada must be extended to incorporate the specific area, since the immensity of Canada implies that there are a wide range of atmospheres, and knowing whether the nursery to be planted is high on a mountain or somewhere down in a southern valley is important data. One city that is brimming with blossoms and plants that are loved by the occupants is London, the capital of the region of Ontario.

Structured as a capital city on the forks of the Thames River, London was established in the practically uninhabited zone in 1826. The region of backwoods, glades, wetlands, and valleys was wealthy in local plant species, and there are many ensured territories inside as far as possible. The populace is continued by legislative issues, a few schools and a significant college, a flourishing business locale, and a few ventures.

Parks are wherever in the city, some little and exceptional to one neighborhood and others drawing individuals from everywhere throughout the city to their bicycle trails, water stops, and gardens. The Victoria Garden, which is a conventional one of fifteen sections of land, has over a million sightseers a year come to walk around its strolls and respect the plantings. Visit the nurseries and parks to see which blossoms develop well in the region, and check the wildflowers also. On the off chance that plants are local to the territory or develop well in the city gardens, they will do fine at your house moreover.

The main executing ice of the winter is on normal around multi week into October, and the last one toward the finish of the principal week in May. That gives London a multi month developing season. Beginning seeds inside, establishing cuttings, or buying all around began plants from garden focuses and nurseries will give you the head start you requirement for such a brief period.

At the point when the ground is sufficiently delicate to work and sufficiently dry so the dirt doesn't bunch into hunks, planting can start. Some bloom seeds should be planted in warm soil, while sweet peas, for example, similar to the cool of late-winter. Bulbs set out in fall will come up in the spring before you could set out plants for shading. Perennials likewise, whenever picked admirably, will settle on their own choices with respect to when to grow and blossom; these can be planted at practically whenever during the hotter a half year.

Freezing and blanketed winters, sweltering and damp summers, and brief springs and falls are trademark for this territory. Bunches of downpour in summer, with visit evening rainstorms, and heaps of snow in winter keep plants very much watered.

For all the months when blossoms can't be discovered outside, there are numerous approaches to discover them at nearby flower vendors and bloom shops.

At the point when you need to communicate bliss, concern, compassion, or love, nothing is as happy as a blossom. You can arrange online whenever or by telephone during working hours, indicating the value go and the event you are celebrating. Same day conveyance is guaranteed by numerous shops, and the Internet is a decent method to perceive what the botanical architects can offer.

[the-gloomth]

This past weekend my partner and I took a rather last-minute planned road trip to my hometown. I lived there til I was about 16 and I never really connected with the place we moved to afterwards (because it is a hate filled shit hole). I am from a very small town- only 1200 people at the time- on Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron. We didn’t have a movie theater within a two hour drive, no mall, not even any stop lights. When they installed the town’s first flashing four way stop light my best friend and I went to go look at it, it was that kind of boring. My connection to the island is more frayed and distant than it’s ever been, I am not in touch with anyone who still lives there and most of my parents’ friends have either moved or passed away. For me it’s just a place of memories. A beautiful region full of deep blue water, enormous rock cuts, coniferous forest, and ghosts.

It’s always a strange experience to go “back home”, the place you remember as the backdrop to your childhood inevitably changes, as your perspective does, or you do. My partner and I plotted the entire trip in one dizzy afternoon, both of us at our desks across the city, messaging links back and forth. Suddenly hotels were booked, ferry tickets purchased, and it was happening!

We left early Saturday and arrived at the French River by early afternoon, this enormous river is considered the boundary between Northern and Southern Ontario. Beyond it’s shores the terrain slowly grows more harsh- rocks and coniferous trees and wildflowers you don’t see as much of in the south. The Canadian Shield is a swath of stone that runs across the country and in the north is particularly visible as giant rock cuts on the sides of roads and in the enormous stone hills. I’ve always associated the north with the Shield and stone.

At the French River we climbed a closed snowmobile crossing suspended over the churning river below (it’s the green bridge in the photo above)! The views were incredible. We then went on to Sudbury (and checked into the sketchiest motel ever) and visited the Big Nickle sculpture at dusk. Growing up we would drive the hour and a half to Sudbury on weekends to go shopping (as there was nothing like that on the island). The city seems more threadbare and small now, much of it’s industry has closed or moved on. It was once a mining town (hence the giant nickle coin).

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The next morning we headed on through a paper mill town called Espanola (which reeks like sulfur when it’s operating but thankfully didn’t on the weekend) and down through the rock cuts to Little Current (my hometown). The only ways onto the island is by an old iron swing-bridge or by ferry. Every hour on the hour during the warm seasons the bridge swings to let boats through the busy channel, it takes maybe 20 minutes and is super frustrating if you need to be somewhere…

We explored my favorite place growing up, the ruins of an old mill down at the water. In the past Little Current was a major manufacturing and shipping hub! Mills operated 24/7 by the water and most are gone or lay in ruins there. I think much of my love for exploring abandoned spaces comes from hanging out in them as a child. Being fascinated by their stories and strangeness. We didn’t get inside the “tower” this time (we were in swimwear at the time) but it was amazing to see it still standing.

My other goal for this trip was to swim in Bridal Veil Falls, a gorgeous waterfall I’ve loved my entire life. Oddly, I’ve also had dreams about that spot repeatedly for years. People say Manitoulin has strange or unearthly energy and maybe that’s part of it. We did get to swim in it! It’s about neck deep in the middle, and the waterfall crashing over me felt like fists on my skin.

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At dusk we drove up a precarious dirt road to a look out over the island and watched the sunset. It was absolutely jaw-droppingly beautiful.

The last day we drove out to catch the ferry towards the mainland, the Chi-Cheemaun! It was a relaxing break from all the driving, nothing is very close up north and expanses of forest between towns and settlements seem to go on forever.

Arriving back in the city as night fell was a strange feeling, having woken up in my hometown and then to be back in my adopted home city. This was my first proper non-family-holiday related holiday in over a decade! I am so glad we got to do this, and that I could share my strange homeland with my partner.

There are more photos on flickr (TW- including a road kill fox in case you don’t wanna see that).

-Taeden

  Exploring My Hometown This past weekend my partner and I took a rather last-minute planned road trip to my hometown.

#abandoned building #abandoned mill #french river #manitoulin island #my hometown #northern girl #northern ontario #sudbury

[mjlenvs3000-2018]

Fires in the West

So since this week is a free write for the blog I decided that I wanted to reflect on my summer. This summer I had the opportunity to work in Waterton Lakes National Park in the south western area of Alberta. In 2016 I road tripped out west with my family for a month and got to see the Canadian Rockies for the first time. I immediately fell in love with the mountains and all the wildlife that surrounds those areas. So the following year I applied to national parks out west. I got to see some pretty amazing things while I was out there such as bears, herds of elk, mule deer and many many wildflowers.

Black bear cub (pc. me)

One thing that I knew prior to driving out to Waterton before the summer was that the previous year there was a massive forest fire which devastated the town and park. Fortunately the many firefighters and the parks Canada staff was able to come together to protect all the buildings and historic sites and evacuate all the people before the fire came into the town.

This past summer another fire hit the town and it shocked me how much fires effect an area. This fire specifically was started by a lightning strike that hit the southern edge of the park in Glacier National Park, Montana. The fire spread very fast into our park and ended up only 5 kilometers away from the townsite.

Burnt forest floor in Waterton (pc. me)

I realized this was the norm for people who live out west. Being from Ontario I did not realize that extreme forest fires occur in British Columbia every year. That doesn’t make them any less devastating but it was surreal going to areas that just have to deal with that on a regular occurrence in certain areas of Canada and the world. Immediately when I realized this I became more aware of looking into how many forest fires were going on in certain areas around me. It was crazy finding out that at certain points in the summer that there was around 600 fires in British Columbia alone, with only a portion of those being under control.

Lupins growing in Waterton after the fire (pc. me)

One thing that I learned about fires from being out west is that it can be really beneficial to the land to get that extreme treatment. I always learned in conservation classes and forest classes in school that forest fires and controlled burns are really good for an area’s biodiversity. I did not have a good concept of this until I saw it for the first time. The parks Canada staff who have lived in the area for some time explained to me how devastating the Kenow (2017) fire was and seeing all the burned areas was a shock. But as the seasons changed I participated in a wildflower count in the park and the botanists that were there were surprised and super pleased about how many more wildflowers were growing in the area because of the fire and the ash fertilizing the ground. It’s absolutely amazing to me that with so much destruction comes great beauty in following years.

Crocus flowers growing after the grass fire  (pc. me)

[naturalholisticlivingwellness]

It’s that time of year again. Cold and flu season is right around the corner but as always nature has perfect timing. You can find an all natural flu fighter in the form of elderberries that ripen around this time of year (August/September). But hang on! Before you rush off to go picking these berries to put into your freezer for the winter, there’s a few things you should know!

According to Edible Wild Food, the American Elderberry tree (Sambucus canadensis) is “sometimes propagated as an ornamental shrub[.] The elderberry bush is a member of the honeysuckle family. It attracts birds and butterflies and can be pruned back every few years to keep it looking good in a landscaped garden. This deciduous shrub produces a fruit that, in recent years has become very popular. The white flowers transform into dark purple fruit late summer….Sambucus canadensis is a very close cousin of Sambucus nigra (European Elderberry).

[DESCRIPTION]

Trunk/Bark

Elder is characterised by its short trunk (bole). This deciduous shrub has soft, smooth, gray-brownish bark with corky bumps and furrowed bark. Older bark is brownish gray with shallow fissures, becoming rough with thin, plate-like scales.

Branches/Twigs

Twigs are hairless, yellowish green with a white pith and scattered, large lenticels (pores). There is spongy, white pith inside the twigs and branches. Some bushes can be as almost wide as they are tall.

Height

Up to 3 metres.

Leaves/Needles

The leaves are pinnate with 5 to 9 leaflets (rarely 3 or 11). Each leaf is 5 to 30 cm long, and the dark green leaflets have serrated margins.

Flowers

Each radially symmetrical flower has 5 flattened, white petals in a large umbrella-shaped cluster and has five protruding stamens (male parts). The overall flower head measures anywhere between 15 and 30 cm in diametre.

Fruit

Edible purplish-black fruit ripens in drooping clusters late summer and they measure 3–5 mm in diameter. Elderberries are particularly rich in flavonoids, especially anthocyanins. In addition to their culinary uses, elderberries are commonly used in cough syrups.

Habitat

Elderberry prefers moist soil but tolerates dry soil as well. It grows best in full sun. It is native to a large area of North America, east of the Rocky Mountains. They grow wild in parts of Mexico and Central America.

Edible Parts

The berries and flowers are edible. Flowers can be tossed into a salad. Eating the berries raw is not favoured by many. Elderberries tend to end up as pies, in pancakes, jams, jellies, and in wine making.”

According the to United States Forest Service, “American pokeweed is a member of the Phytolaccaceae, the Pokeweed family. Members of the family are found around the world in tropical and subtropical distribution with a few species that occur in temperate areas. About 16 genera and 100 species are recognized in the family. The genus Phytolacca contains about 25 species which range from herbs to shrubs to tall trees. Two native species of pokeweed are recognized in North America, one found across much of North America and one found in California and the southwestern U.S. A few tropical species have been introduced unintentionally in imported products or intentionally as ornamentals.

This pokeweed is usually 1.8 meter to 3.0 meters (about 6 to 10 feet) tall, but may in some instances reach 21 feet tall. One or more stems arise from a tuber-like taproot that can become large over several years. The often pinkish-red, smooth and partially hollow stem is rigid to flexible, not strong, and up to 5 centimeters (2 inches) diameter.

The leaves are alternate, thin, green on top, and lighter below. The leaves are usually 20 to 35 centimeters (7 3/4 to 14 3/4 inches) long by 10 to 18 centimeters (about 4 to 7 inches) wide. They are tapered at both ends. Bruised or crushed leaves and stems have a somewhat acrid odor.

Flowers are borne in pinkish racemes, linear clusters with each flower on a short stem. The flowers are usually white to greenish, but may be pinkish or purplish. Flowers have 5 sepals, no petals, about 10 stamens. It produces purple-black berries that are about 6 to 11 millimeters (1/4 to 2/5 inches) diameter with 6 to 12 seeds.

American pokeweed is a species of open or edge habitats, especially those where birds are able to roost. It is found at forest edge, in fence rows, under power lines, pastures, old field, forest openings, and other similar areas. It is sometimes a garden or yard weed. It is found from Washington south to California then east through Arizona and New Mexico to the Atlantic coast, north to Nebraska, Minnesota and Maine. It is also found in Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick in Canada.

This species may flower year around in southern states, and May to October in northern states. The entire plant is poisonous causing a variety of symptoms, including death in rare cases. The berries are especially poisonous. Young leaves and stems when properly cooked are edible and provide a good source of protein, fat and carbohydrate. Regional names for the plant include poke, poke sallet, poke salad, and pokeberry. The fruits are important food for mockingbirds, northern cardinals, and mourning doves. The name “phytolacca” means red dye plant.”

If you take a look at the picture I’ve provided, you can see some key differences. While the berries look similar because of the color, they grow differently. Elderberries grow in a bunch, like grapes. Pokeberries on the other hand grow more in a straight line. Elderberries are also smooth while pokeberries (at least in this picture) look like black curled up Rollie pollie pill bugs. The biggest indicator though is the color of the stalk/stem. A mature poke plant, like many poisonous plants, will have a magenta (reddish purple or hot pink) stem.

This website has two wonderful videos that show the difference between the plants.

https://herbs.motherearthliving.com/elderberry-vs-poke-berry-identification/

If you would like some more introductory information about elderberries check out this helpful guide: https://www.earthley.com/product/what-you-need-to-know-about-elderberries/ref/Donezzia/

If you’re looking at getting some high quality premade elderberry for the fall/winter, you can get some here: https://www.earthley.com/product/elderberry-elixir-herbal-extract/ref/Donezzia/

Or here: https://www.earthley.com/product/elderberry-syrup-diy-kits/ref/Donezzia/

Want to learn how to make your own tinctures? You can check the Introductory, Intermediate, Advanced and other herbalism courses from The Herbal Academy here: https://theherbalacademy.com/courses-classes/?ap_id=Donezzia

Sources:

https://herbs.motherearthliving.com/elderberry-vs-poke-berry-identification/

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/elderberry.aspx

https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/phytolacca_americana.shtml

#elderberry #pokeberry #know the difference #safety #safe foraging #foraging

[wildflowers-of-southern-ontario]

Bunchberry Cornus canadensis Cornaceae

Photographs taken on June 20, 2023, at Petroglyphs Provincial Park, Woodview, Ontario, Canada.

#wildflowers of southern ontario #white #Bunchberry #Cornus canadensis #Cornus #Cornaceae #wildflowers #wildflower #flowers #flower #nature #Petroglyphs Provincial Park #Woodview #Ontario #Canada

[thebestintoronto]

10 Best Toronto Hiking Trails: Amazing Places to Hike in Toronto

Searching for Toronto hiking routes to explore? When Toronto enters your mind, you could picture imposing condo structures, limitless concrete roads, and traffic for days. That's not all there is to the city. There are gorgeous woody parks, tracks via serene woodlands, and also wild animals environments in Toronto.

You can locate many locations to trek in Toronto without leaving the city limits. So, explore your very own neighbourhood or hop on the TTC to discover the best of your own yard. Here are the leading Toronto hiking trails that you need to check out.

Toronto Walking Trails: Scarborough Bluffs

The Scarborough Bluffs are just one of Toronto's not-so-hidden secrets where the high cliffs look right out of England and the waters are blue-green like the Caribbean. It is just one of the very best walking tracks in Toronto, as well as the major path runs for 5 to 6km at the base of the cliffs. The Scarborough Bluffs Route is a very easy ride in between Bluffer's Coastline and also Bluffer's Park You'll appreciate views of the sturdy cliffs, the tranquil waters, and the occasional seabird flying around. It's also feasible to go swimming right here at the little sandy beach throughout the summer.

If you wish to look into the sights from the top of the cliffs, you'll require to increase to Scarborough Crescent Park (the Scarborough Bluffs Lookout). While you could be able to figure out how to climb up the cliffs to the top, I don't suggest it. It's a really ecologically sensitive location, as well as sections of the rocks could offer anytime. To prevent injury to yourself as well as damaging the landscape, please do not forge your very own path approximately the top. If you're caught attempting to raise to the top of the Bluffs, you can encounter a $5000 fine.

Strolling Trails in Toronto at High Park

High Park is just one of one of the most gorgeous areas in Toronto, and the city park has several of the best Toronto treking tracks, as well. While you could have seen High Park for cherry blossom viewings in the spring, there's a lot even more to this natural space that covers a number of city blocks. You might have roamed around Grenadier Fish pond or the Japanese garden, however have you ever gone treking at High Park?

Even though it's a much easier walk through the park, there are several forests and also woody locations within High Park. You'll discover wood woodlands, wildflowers, as well as various types of birds. The High Park Area Path is a loop route around the perimetre of the park, spanning concerning 5km. It's Toronto's "Central Park" on a smaller range. While these Toronto hiking trails aren't difficult or the lengthiest, it's a beautiful trip for a few hours.

Rouge National Urban Park.

Rouge National Urban Park is Canada's first nationwide urban park, and it's a special wilderness setup in the capital city of the district. It integrates remarkable biodiversity and all-natural landscapes with background as well as society of the area. You'll find Toronto's only camping site, substantial marshes, a sandy beach, Carolinian woodland, as well as some of Canada's earliest Aboriginal sites.

When hiking at Rouge National Urban Park, you'll be absolutely spoiled for choice. There are numerous routes of various ranges and troubles. Here is a full listing:

Rouge Marsh Route: A short walking of the largest remaining wetland in Toronto (500 metres).

Pole Route: Explore Carolinian ecosystems on a 200 year old former logging path (2.5 km).

Glen Eagles Panorama Trail: Sights of the Rouge River as well as the Little Rouge Creek (600 metres).

Event Forest Path: A ceremony of neighborhood leaders that aided safeguard as well as produce Canada's first urban national park (500 metres).

View Route: Look into the two level watching system on this route (1.5 km).

Orchard Trail: Woodlands, marshes, and residues of very early European settlements (2km).

Cedar Trail & the Beare Wetlands Loop: Mature woodlands as well as wild animals (1.5-- 4.5 km).

Woodland Path: Forests, meadows, as well as water (4.5 kilometres).

Reesor Method/ Tanglewood Route: A loophole trail of young and also old woodlands and fields (3.3 km).

Monarch Path: Carefully rolling loop route across several habitats (7.6 km).

Tallgrass Trek: Meadows, marshes, and also meadows-- a loop path (3.2 kilometres).

Sentier Route: Shaded forests and wetlands, a household pleasant path (5.1 km).

Prairie Wolf Trail: Pine as well as cedar woodlands, wetlands, fields-- a loophole route (2.9 km).

There's also an application for the park. Trainees at the College of Toronto Scarborough's development hub dealt with Parks Canada to create an app, offered for both iPhone as well as Android gadgets. You can use the app to navigate the hiking trails and also find out about the park's history along the way. It's also feasible to take some digital walks at Rouge National Urban Park prior to you took off.

Don Valley Brickworks Park & Moore Park Abyss.

The Don Valley Brickworks Park is a 40 acre park on a former quarry including treking trails and also surroundings of the Toronto horizon. This is among the best hikes in Toronto since you're not as well much from the city, there are woody tracks with prospective wild animals discoveries, as well as you can even pop by Evergreen Brickworks, too. There's a tiny cafe on website, a farmer's market on Saturdays, as well as an artisan market on Sundays.

While the whole loop of the Don Valley Brickworks hiking trail is just about 2.4 kilometres, it's easy to extend your walk with the Don Valley from here. Advance the Beltline Trail north or southern, or hike along the Lower Don River Path. You can even do a whole loophole of the Moore Park Abyss continuing on to David Balfour Park. Look into my walking overview to the Moore Park Ravine.

Hiking in Toronto at Crothers Woods.

The trails at Crothers Woods are among the very best places to hike in Toronto that in fact link with the previously mentioned Evergreen Brickworks Path. The Crothers Woods loophole route is 6.6 km and also runs along the edge of the Don Valley. If you're mosting likely to stroll on the Crothers Woods loop route, the hiking course begins at a supermarket with a big car park (so you can park there).

Despite the fact that there's a shopping centre and a neighboring freeway, you'll be delivered to the middle of serene nature within no time, virtually failing to remember that you remain in the city in any way. Nonetheless, you might stumble upon some legendary city sky line views on the journey that are a happy reminder that you're experiencing the nature of this terrific city.

Warden Woods (Gus Harris Path).

Warden Woods includes the Gus Harris Trail (called for a former mayor of Scarborough) in the eastern end of the city. It's a 3.2 kilometres out as well as back track that's really simple to access. The Gus Harris Route is just one of the very best walking routes in Toronto. It's an easy walk via the woods, there's a pretty abyss, and also a river going through it.

You can conveniently reach it from the train stations (Warden or Victoria Park) or there's great deals of car park on domestic roads. Although you could need to tolerate some city sound on the path, there's likewise the tranquil noises of birds chirping as well as the gentle circulation of the river that makes it all rewarding.

Tommy Thompson Park (Leslie Road Spit Trail).

The Leslie Road Spit Path at Tommy Thompson Park is just one of the leading Toronto treking routes. While you may discover old building and construction debris on parts of the route, it's a great instance of exactly how nature is beginning to recover it all. The whole loop trail has to do with 11km in length, although there are a couple of various courses to take within Tommy Thompson Park.

First, there's a multi-use trail expanding from the landmass as well as out towards the water. This is a flat, paved surface about 5km in length in between the park entry and also the lighthouse at the end. There are 2 pedestrian tracks with a level or smooth crushed rock surface area, meant for pedestrians just. Then, there's the nature path (3.3 kilometres) featuring a natural surface area that runs alongside the multi-use trail. As this park is a habitat for wild animals (10 types of owls are understood to live below), family pets are not permitted in the park.

Humber Bay Park East & Humber Bay Park West.

Humber Bay Park is a beachfront park in Toronto's west end (Etobicoke) near where the Humber River meets Lake Ontario. Specifically, the parks are right where Mimico Creek streams into the lake. This environment-friendly area is divided into 3 parks: Humber Bay Park West, Humber Bay Park East, and Humber Bay Shores Park. There are hiking trails at all three parks and they're several of the best strolling trails in Toronto.

The Humber Bay Park West Path is a 1.9 kilometres out and also back trail that offers lovely views all over. The Humber Bay Park East Path is somewhat much more beautiful with some wild animals watching opportunities, and it also includes lovely lake views, too. It's a 2.6 kilometres loop path. If you continue along the Humber Bay Park East Route, you'll ultimately end up at the Humber Bay Shores Park. You'll walk past a small butterfly yard on the way. Ultimately, there's a fascinating pedestrian bridge called the Humber Bay Arch Bridge with beautiful searches on either side of it. It's easy to invest an entire day checking out these parks as well as Toronto tracks. You're not too far from the city streets if you would love to pick up a dish or a coffee, too.

Humber River Recreational Route.

Farther north in Etobicoke on the Humber River exists the Humber River Recreational Path, an 8.2 kilometres out and also back trail on a smooth path. It twists along the river from Humber Bay to Old Mill as well as ultimately to Scarlett Woods. The Humber Bay Park East route connects with the Humber River Recreational Path, so you can easily check out both in someday for an extended expedition. While you'll be sharing the path with bikers, it's a sensational breathtaking course in the city that's not to be missed.

Glen Stewart Ravine.

Glen Stewart Gorge - Toronto treking tracks. The Glen Stewart Abyss is a surprise forest escape in the Beaches area of Toronto. On the Glen Stewart Park Trail, there's a large boardwalk throughout a secured forested area where you'll promptly fail to remember that you're walking in Toronto. It's one of my favourite Toronto treking tracks within the city limits.

The path itself is a little over 1km long (1.3 kilometres to be specific), so it isn't exactly a lengthy walking. It took me about 20 mins to trek from one end to the various other, and after that backtracking my way back to the vehicle. While several of the stroll traverses over a dust course, you'll additionally venture throughout raised boardwalks for a lot of it. Despite where you go, you'll be surrounded by a rich and also attractive woodland with a canopy of red oak and also red maple trees overhead.

Toronto Island.

Last but not least, I had to consist of the Toronto Islands on my list of the top Toronto hiking tracks. While these aren't hard expeditions via the woodland, you'll find peaceful strolling paths on among the most beautiful places in the city. You'll need to take the ferryboat from the mainland to Centre Island. From there, discover 14km of routes from Hanlan's Indicate Ward's Island.

There's a great mix of waterside boardwalks, beaches, as well as courses near enchanting homes. You'll likely require to see on several celebrations to uncover the island from every angle. You'll witness among the best city sky line sights from the island as well as on the ferryboat ride, too. Taking a trip to the Toronto Islands is a must for anyone living here or checking out the city from afar.

Map of Toronto Trails.

Below is a handy map of all the Toronto treking trails so you can see them visually in one area. If you want to conserve this map for future referral, please click the little celebrity next to the title and also it will be saved to your Google account.

The post “ 10 Best Toronto Hiking Trails: Amazing Places to Hike in Toronto “ was first seen on Ontario Hiking

The IV Lounge - IV Therapy Toronto Service Provider

[botanyee-blog]

Botany/Science Books I Recommend

(I’ll update whenever I read a book I like!)

Dec 17th, 2017

1. The Big, Bad Book of Botany by Micheal Largo

This book was one of the first ones that I read that was strictly about botany. It’s an interesting one too! It’s an A-Z book containing interesting facts about common plants. While there’s not a huge amount of plants covered, the book is 387 pages, not including acknowledgements and all that, but it does cover a large variety of different types of plants, from flowering species to vegetables. There’s carrots, belladonna, ginkgo, opium poppy, and venus flytraps, all giving us information on history, use in modern day, toxicity, and facts about the plants. It’s truly an interesting fact book, but it gives good knowledge on plants we use everyday. Plus, you can learn new things, like how alfalfa sprouts can cause a disease similar to lupus! [EDIT: it's been brought to my attention that there are some things in this book that may not be accurate, my apologies. However, despite the inaccuracies, it does have interesting things that don't apply to science, like folklore and stories. Also, if you find an interesting plant in here, you can research it more, as I did with the Be-still Tree (Thevetia peruviana or Cascabela thevetia). I'm sorry for recommending a book that has inaccuracies, I'll learn to research the book more.]

2. Letters To A Young Scientist by Edward O. Wilson

I picked up this book while browsing a Chapters. It’s a very skinny book, and was wedged between a couple big books about chemistry. I read the back, and I knew that I wanted it. It gives a whole new perspective on becoming a scientist. Edward O. Wilson is an American biologist that specializes in the study of ants. He’s been dubbed as “the father of biodiversity”, and he’s a personal hero of mine. He wrote this book with the intention of attracting young people into the science world, assuring that all you need is passion, and a drive to fulfill that passion. He also mentions that you don’t have to be great at math to become a scientist, as you can collaborate with scientists that are better in math (which is a huge relief because my math mark is on the sad side). It really made me happy that an older generation believed in people like me to continue research in biology, and it always gives me motivation to learn more and to gather all the information I can.

(More under the cut)

3. The Origin Of Species by Charles Darwin

Of course, a very famous book in the science world. I bought this after learning about evolution in my grade 11 biology class, and (although I haven’t read the whole thing yet) I find it very interesting. It’s a good base book to learn about the thoughts of Charles Darwin and his theories (because it was written by him of course), and also introduce yourself to the theory of evolution. I’m personally interested in natural selection, and how it applies to humans now (because of the growth in the medical world we can heal more people who would otherwise die- which is good and bad, being that the good is that we’re saving people, bad that these people were supposed to die and this is leading to overpopulation). Also if you plan to go into science, you’ll probably encounter this book a lot, so it’s good to read it!

4. Newcomb’s Wildflower Guide by Lawrence Newcomb

I bought this so I could use it to identify wildflowers I want to press and store, and I realized how easy it was to use it! Starting at the beginning, there are five questions to answer (in the categories of flower, leaf, and plant type), then you find the group number, and then you go on to use the locator key. It’s a very simple process, the only hard part being the five beginning questions, but Newcomb has helpfully provided a guide on how to answer the questions. It’s a very interesting guide, the only downfall is that it only covers part of the US and Canada (now I don’t know if he has published more books that cover other areas in the world, so I apologize for that). But if you live in Northeastern or North-Central North America (basically Illinois, Wisconsin, Kentucky, and Tennessee to the upper east coast; and the Southern/middle area of Ontario/Quebec all the way over to New Brunswick, PEI, and Nova Scotia- so if you don’t live in those areas…. sorry)

As I said, I will update this list as I see fit, but until then, happy reading!!

#biology #botany #science #plant science #wildflowers #the origin of species #natural selection #science books #books

[sector2020]

Ten Things I've Learned About Canada In 15 Years Living Here

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The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Advancement's Better Life Index ranks Canada amongst the very best locations to live in the world. Here's why. A study published yesterday by the Company for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) found that "Canada carries out extremely well in measures of wellness," according to an online report.

The study scored 36 countries, including 34 OECD members, Russia and Brazil. No general ranking is reported. The findings will surprise some, provided our Neinstein Personal Injury Reviews 7.2% nationwide joblessness rate, 14.5% youth unemployment rate and financial growth forecasts that remain soft in the short-term. Here are 7 highlights from the OECD report: The average family earns US$ 28,194 each year after taxes.

There is disparity at both ends of the earnings spectrum though, not remarkably. The top 20% takes house US$ 55,718, while the bottom 20% makes US$ 10,526. We ranked seventh on family wealth and ninth on income. Canadians spend two minutes a day volunteering; that's about half the OECD average. On the other hand, 64% stated they 'd helped a stranger in the last month.

We ranked seventh on support network. Nine in 10 Canadians are pleased with their housing. The average home in this country offers 2.6 rooms per occupant, more than any other country. And 99.8% of Canadians reside in a home with a private bathroom that has an indoor, flushing toilet. (The OECD average is 97.8%.) We ranked 24th on the ratio of housing expenses to earnings, eighth on fundamental facilities and first on number of spaces per person.

We ranked 14th on contamination and 12th on water quality. Our life span at birth is 81, a complete year above the OECD average. And 88% of Canadians state they are in health. Health costs in this country makes up 11.4% of gdp. (The OECD average is 9.5% of gross domestic product.) We ranked 3rd in health and 17th in life span.

That's well below the OECD average of 4%. Our homicide rate is less remarkable. It's 1.6%, only partially listed below the average rate of personal injury law firms Toronto 2.2%. We ranked first on assault rate and 23rd on murder rate.: Canadians work a typical 1,702 hours per year. That's 74 hours below the OECD average.

(The OECD average is 9%.) We ranked ninth on working long hours. The full index is made up of 11 categories. Canada ranked 27th on task security, fourth on student abilities, fourth on federal government transparency and eighth on life fulfillment.

Canada has a goal to attract one million individuals to live and work in the nation by 2020. Evaluating by feedback from expats, it should not have too much difficulty with that objective. Listed as one of the best nations on the planet for expats, toronto directory of lawyers it is regularly praised for its accepting and tolerant society and terrific lifestyle.

If you're thinking about the big relocation and still need some convincing that Canada is the right location for you, keep reading. Here we note the 15 reasons why you should call the Great White North your new house. It appears Canadians measure up to their welcoming reputation, with more than four in 5 expats surveyed for the current Internations Expat Expert study explaining Canadians as "friendly" double the international average.

Canada ranked 12th out of 189 nations on the newest Human Development Index, scoring extremely for a whole host of categories, from life expectancy and gross national income, to security and socio-economic development. With a lower expense of living, a focus on sports and taking pleasure in the outdoors, lots of expats select to head to Canada to improve their lifestyle in fact Canada ranked number three worldwide in the latest Lifestyle rankings according to a research study by United States News & World Report.

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We are our clients' supporters. We, in addition to our team of medical, forensic, and investigative specialists, have represented customers coming from all parts of society Fifty years. Neinstein is committed to doing everything we can to assist our customers receive the settlement they are worthy of.

Canadians in general love sport, but that enthusiasm isn't simply confined to ice hockey, lacrosse and basketball, it likewise extends way beyond that. Canada is vast and most of the populations lives in cities, which leaves fantastic https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/?search=ontario life and activities expanses of wilderness simply waiting to be explored. Whether you're kayaking or swimming, snowboarding or merely walking through stunning surroundings, the Great Outdoors is just pleading to be found.

But it is not just this Francophone city that bewitches expats. Coastal Vancouver is the country's cooking capital, surrounded by beaches, mountains and gorgeous forests, while Toronto is stated to be the most multicultural city on the planet. Include the cowboy charms Calgary and Ottawa's fame as the Silicon Valley of the North and you have a nation bursting with variety.

Canada is cold. The 2nd coldest country in the world, in fact. However while those long, cold winter seasons might be cited as a factor not to transfer to the country, the residents know you can still http://www.thefreedictionary.com/ontario life and activities have enjoyable when the snow is thick on the ground. From Whistler to Lake Louise, the names of this nation's renowned resorts make you want to get your skis or board and jump a chairlift.

After the long winter, the sun comes out throughout Canada and mountainside are blanketed in colourful wildflowers, alpine lakes glisten in the sunshine, the rugged shoreline begins to draw in holidaymakers and the sun-kissed vineyards of the Okanagan Valley welcome visitors. Yes, Canada comes alive in summertime, with average temperatures of 25C, and the locals know how to enjoy it to the max.

You won't need much excuse to get out and take pleasure in the sunlight. When the winter season actually bites and the wind chill sends you wishing to scamper inside, you do not need to shut yourself up in the house. In the coldest cities across Canada, you can go out shopping and enjoy suppers and cocktails, all underground.

In Toronto, PATH is a downtown pedestrian pathway offering dining establishments, shopping and home entertainment, while Montreal has its own Underground City, stretching for 20 miles and incorporating city stations, plazas, shops and eateries. Among the many pleasures of checking out the Great Outdoors while living in Canada is the incredible wildlife you can witness.

The moose is an icon of the nation, while the Canadian caribou migration is not to be missed and beavers, wolves, meadow dogs, coyotes and deer all contribute to its abundant wildlife offering. Canada is appropriately happy with its state-funded healthcare offering Medicare, which makes sure vital medical treatment is free at the point of shipment.

As a long-term local, you can take pleasure in both in-patient and out-patient services as part of Medicare, which is actually viewed as a medical insurance service, funded by the taxes residents and locals pay in through income tax, sales tax and things like the purchase of lotto tickets. If Toronto is among the most multiculturally varied cities on the planet, then Vancouver isn't far behind it.

According to the current Internations survey of expats, 94% ranked serenity as a crucial part of the nation's lifestyle and Canada also performed exceptionally well when it pertained to safety and security, with low crime rates and especially low violent crime when compared with its southern neighbour. If you want to raise children in Canada, you will be pleased with the conclusions from expats already residing in the country.

Frequently weekends are spent getting away to the mountains, lakeside lodges and the coast, anything to link with nature and shake of the tensions of the huge cities. Canada is among the world's greatest economies and there are booming industries such as mining and oil and gas in general. As a nation, it welcomes foreign employees and positively encourages those who can fill under-represented markets and positions.

As part of its open policy to foreign employees, Canada lists info about all the visas available on its site cic.gc.ca. Employers searching for foreign workers can do so through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, while you can likewise apply through the Federal Experienced Worker Program, which operates on a points-based system based on your scholastic experiences, language skills and so on.

In truth, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Canadian students perform well despite socioeconomic status or whether they are First Nations or current immigrants, as the country has a policy of no student being left behind. More than 90 per cent of trainees attend public school and there is a real emphasis on sports and after-school activities along with academic achievement.

If you're thinking about making Canada your new house, we provide an unsurpassable worldwide eliminations service direct from the UK. Get your complimentary quote today.

The Duchess of Sussex is currently there and Prince Harry is expected to join her within days. So what is it about Canada!.?.!? Here is our guide to the nation's absolute best attractions and experiences and why you ought to consider Canada for your next vacation. For those who want vacations where you escape the crowds, Canada delivers.

The country also has the longest coastline in the world. Fans of Canada say its natural beauty is carefully balanced with enjoyable and sporty experiences, plus a host of city tourist attractions. THE MUST-SEE SIGHTS1. CN Tower Highlights: Toronto's horizon including the CN Tower, which has a glass flooring you can stroll or crawl throughout at 1,122 ftYou'll require nerves of steel during a trip to the top of Toronto's primary destination.

There is likewise the Glass Flooring (you can walk or crawl throughout it while looking down 1,122 ft), and the SkyPod observation deck which, at 1,465 feet, is one of the world's highest viewing platforms. 2. Niagara Falls Visitors get drenched at Niagara Falls. If you wish to get away the crowds, go on a two-mile walk through Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, or dive into the Falls View Water Park, which has 16 water slides, a few of which are 6 storeys highThe white waters and thick mists of Niagara Falls Neinstein Personal Injury Lawyers are Canadian basics.

Alternatively, the Journey Behind The Falls trip takes you down a lift shaft and through a tunnel to a series of observation decks for a lot more severe photography. If you want to escape the crowds, go on a two-mile walk through Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, or dive into the Falls View Water Park with its 16 water slides, a few of which are 6 storeys high.

Northern Lights: An excellent place to see one of nature's greatest programs is in the frontier town of Whitehorse in the Yukon territory. It's a sporty paradise you can fly to with Air North, one of the friendliest airline companies worldwide. Further south in Saskatchewan, La Ronge has a few of the darkest skies on the continent and is also a great base for ice-fishing tours.

Vancouver Island: Take a two-hour ferry ride from Vancouver to Vancouver Island, where you'll discover sandy coves and rocky coasts. And who knows, you may even see Harry and Meghan. Trying to find a location to stay? The island has whatever from campgrounds to five-star spa hotels. The island's cool browse town of Tofino is worth a go to, as is the bigger Nanaimo, where you can try the Nanaimo Bar, an abundant, chocolate biscuit. : since July 1 of the year indicated.: Overall overall population (both sexes and all ages) in the country as of July 1 of the year suggested, as approximated by the United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division. World Population Potential Customers: The 2019 Modification. For forecasted years, the U.N.

Find Out More Definitions ...: For 2019: portion change in overall population over the last year (from July 1, 2018 to June 30 2019). For all other years: most current year annual portion change equivalent assuming homogeneous change in the preceding five year duration, computed through reverse compounding.: For 2019: absolute change in overall population (increase or decrease in number of people) over the in 2015 (from July 1, 2018 to June 30 2019).

: The average yearly variety of immigrants minus the number of emigrants over the preceding 5 year period (ranging from July 1 to June 30 of the initial and last years), or subsequent 5 year period (for 2016 data). An unfavorable number means that there are more emigrants than immigrants.

This specification offers a sign of age distribution.: (Overall Fertility Rate, or TFR), it is expressed as kids per female. It is determined as the typical number of kids a typical woman will have during her reproductive period (15 to 49 years old) based upon the current fertility rates of every age in the country, and assuming she is not subject to death.

: Urban population as a percentage of overall population.: Population residing in areas classified as urban according to the requirements utilized by each country.: Total population in the nation as a percentage of total World Population as of July 1 of the year indicated.: Total World Population since July 1 of the year suggested.

Inevitably, some food waste is inescapable this is the food that can't usually be sold or consumed, such as bones, vegetable peelings, egg shells, tea bags, and coffee premises. Avoidable food waste is the edible food that winds up in the compost or in the bin. Regrettably, we often waste excellent food since we purchase too much, cook too much, or do not save it properly.

#toronto #ontario

[willow-and-wolf]

Canadian Elopement Photographers - Mt Assiniboine

Backcountry Helicopter Hiking Elopement

Emma & Colby

Canadian Elopement Photographers 

As Canadian Elopement Photographers, we are always looking for epic mountain locations to suggest to couples. When we aren’t shooting weddings we are usually hiking and camping in the endless Canadian backcountry.  On all our personal trips we keep an eye out for amazing landscapes and unique settings. Ever since our first backcountry hiking trip into Mt Assiniboine Provincial Park a few years ago, we fell in love with the area. So when Emma and Colby got in contact with us wanting to do a Helicopter Elopement, we knew exactly the spot to suggest. 

“Emma and Colby decided to say their vows and elope in front of a fire in their off-grid cabin in Ontario. It was a simple ceremony but it was perfect. They wanted to plan an epic hiking adventure for their wedding photos to celebrate the day. When they first contacted us with their ideas, we couldn’t wait to be a part of it all.”

Mt. Assiniboine Backcountry Huts

Mt Assiniboine is the highest peak in the Southern Continental Ranges of the Canadian Rockies. Because of its pyramidal peak shape it is often refered to as the Matterhorn of the Rockies. There are only two ways to get into Mt Assiniboine Provincial Park. You can hike the 30km trails which we have done a few times now, or get in an Alpine Helicopter! This is one of those rare places that makes you feel like you are in true wilderness. Mountain peaks, glaciers, lakes, wildflowers and endless forests capture you as far as the eye can see.

Once you are in the park there are three options of accommodation. A beautiful campground on Lake Magog, The Naiset Huts and Mt. Assiniboine Lodge. We suggested to Emma and Colby that getting a helicopter in and staying in the Nasiet Huts for two nights would be an amazing adventure. They are very popular in the summer but after all of us calling for 8 hours on the phones we were in!

Their Story

In Emma’s words, “Colby and I met what  feels like eons ago. I was working at a car dealership selling trucks and he was my neighbour. After trading in his very noticeable vehicle, I was interested at who would daily drive such a thing. I scoped him out and introduced myself to this strange looking man. He asked for her number and the rest is history.” They instantly connected over their mutual love for adventure. Colby was into off-roading and Emma found a love for hiking through photography. After four years of adventures, they decided to sell everything and moved across the country to live completely off grid.

After they had just said goodbye to all of their family and friends and set off down the road, Colby pulled over to check one more thing. As Emma came around the back of the trailer, he was on one knee. With an engagement ring in his hand and said, “I know we have had a rough day, but will you go on this adventure with me?” Emma and Colby decided to say their vows and elope in front of a fire in their off-grid cabin in Ontario. It was a simple ceremony but it was perfect. They wanted to plan an epic hiking adventure for their wedding photos to celebrate the day. When they first contacted us with their ideas, we couldn’t wait to be a part of it all.

An Adventure Elopement in the Canadian Rocky Mountains

We love suggesting locations that we have never seen any other Canadian Elopement Photographers shoot. Mt. Assinaboine was one of those places. We couldn’t find any other wedding photos like this and that makes it so special to the couple. An adventure that is made just for them. We suggested a two day adventure in the huts because the weather in the Canadian Rocky Mountains can be touch and go, even in the summer. And we are so glad we did. In July, the middle of summer, we were dropped off into some pretty turbulent weather. In two days we had rain, hail, sleet, snow and a little bit of sun!

When we first arrived at the cabin the rain settled in. We took it was a chance to chat with other hikers arriving and make some lunch in the camp kitchen. Emma put on her makeup in front of the big cabin windows as we watched the clouds roll over the mountains. We spent the two days hiking and exploring the trails in-between storms. Finding shelter in the trees when it rained and laughing along the way. We couldn’t have asked for a sweeter couple to have gone on this journey with. We loved every minute exploring with these two. Emma was just as stoked as us with all the low clouds dancing around us and whipping her dress and hair around. 

We left this adventure elopement with full hearts. For the memories we made, the memories we captured and the beauty that we had witnessed. As Canadian Elopement Photographers, it doesn’t get much better than this! Hope you enjoy a look into Emma and Colby’s adventure.

Vendors

Backcountry Hut: Naiset Huts, Mt. Assiniboine Provincial Park, British Columbia Helicopter: Alpine Helicopters Flowers: Baby’s Breath Floral Design, Lacombe Photographers: Willow & Wolf Adventure Elopements

Enjoy this Backcountry Helicopter Wedding by Canadian Elopement Photographers Willow & Wolf?

Here are more similar stories from the blog.

Mariah and Cole – Kananaskis Hiking Elopement

Charlene and Tyler – Revelstoke Waterfall Elopement

Canadian Elopement Photographers – Mt Assiniboine was originally published on Willow & Wolf Wedding Photography

#adventure elopement #Canada elopement photographer #elopement photographer #Helicopter wedding photographer #hiking elopement #mountain wedding

[wanderlustwonderlots]

Day 7 – Caves and Countryside

I’m writing this as I’m in the car on the way to Austria, to upload later, which tells how busy we are. I’m still committed to writing about everything though!  This is going to be a long post because we did multiple fun things!  Some photos are included in the post below, because there are lots!

Caves

Yesterday, we had our day off.  We still got up bright and early though!  We left the house at 7:30 to drive to the Postojna caves! Back before we came to Slovenia, during some meetings in Toronto, we talked about what kind of things we could do on a day off.  All of us voted for the caves, over the Mediterranean Sea or Bled.  Both of these would also have been great but I’ve never seen anything like the caves before and after looking up pictures I was determined to go. It was so incredible!

After arriving at the caves, we got a quick coffee and snacks before the tour started.  There has been no lack of coffee on this trip which I’m very thankful for.  Then we got on a little train that took 10 minutes to get to the start of the cave tour. We went through lots of cavernous areas, but also a few smaller tunnels that made me feel like I needed to duck. I couldn’t think too hard about how much rock and earth was above us because it sort of freaked me out.  I used to be pretty claustrophobic so even though it was spacious, feelings of that came back simply because we were underneath the earth.  If I just ignored that though it was okay!  The train was fun too!

I wish the caves had been set up in a way that we could just wander through it at our own pace, because the tour guide seemed impatient and wanting to get through it.  It was about an hour and a half in total, but I could have happily spent longer there. It was all so fascinating!  The tallest stalagmite in the cave system we were in is 60 metres tall and 500,000 years old.  I can barely even comprehend that kind of age!  But they only grow about 1cm every 10 years so it does make sense.  The entire system was just stalagmites and stalactites in reds, whites, and gray-browns.  I really felt like I was in Gringotts, or Middle Earth, or in the Underdark of Faerûn. I was transported into books I’d read as a kid!  Water was dripping on us from the stalactites, it was chilly enough to warrant a sweater (about 8 degrees Celsius), and it was dimly lit at points to highlight the structures.  I was especially fascinated by the tunnels I could see leading up and down, as well as pools of water every now and then.  

At one point we had to cross a bridge and I almost wish it had more space underneath it!  It would have been cool to be over top of a drop into a deep part of the cave. It was only a small drop though, and we actually passed under the bridge later as the path twisted around to get us back to the train eventually.  The path winded around a fair amount, and there were inclines and declines throughout it, with railings along the way because the ground was damp.  The whole place was damp, and I quite liked it compared to the heat of the outdoors!  Peter kept worrying I would be cold in shorts and just a light sweater but I was fine, I enjoyed being a little chilly.  I wish we had seen bats!  It was too noisy with the group walking through though, and maybe even too light. We did get to learn about the Proteus anguinus, or olm, and see some in an aquarium.  They’re salamanders that can survive for like 80 years, sometimes without eating for 7 years at a time, and they’re blind and nearly translucent.  They looked almost like a mix between a newt and an axolotl. They were pretty cute!    

The whole walk through the caves was so beautiful. At the end of it, before the train back, there was a huge cavern they called the concert hall, because they actually used to hold classical music concerts in it!  It’s 40 metres tall and an echo lasts 6 seconds.  There were lots of kids yelling random things to test the echo, but I wish it was quieter so I could sing something to hear the acoustics.  It was a fun end to the tour.  One of the best parts was right at the very very end after the train had taken us back!  It was not where we entered from but was just a little bit to the side of that. There was a river in the cave!!! It was so exciting!  It was hot and a little steamy because the exit with the warm air was just outside.  The river was so cool! I had been wanting to see one for the whole time we were in the caves! Peter told me it was lower than he had ever seen it, but I knew nothing else of course so still liked it.

It really was an amazing experience and I’m so glad we were able to go on our day off.  Peter was a bit cheesed about having to get up early even on a Sunday but we were all adamant about doing it.  We had plans in the afternoon too that made it a busy day.

Countryside

After the caves, we drove to meet up with Erika, Peter’s former professor and current colleague/friend.  We had met her at the conference on the first day here, so it was nice to see her again!  I want to say it was near Moravče, but it’s honestly hard to remember place names if I don’t write them down…  in any case, it was lovely.  We had to leave our big van in the town and take smaller cars up to her country home because it was too tight and winding!  Luka was also there, a Master’s student who presented at the conference as well.  He was also a participant for Wenxuan’s study, and he’s super nice so I’m glad he could come! We had some coffee and fruit out on the porch, overlooking an incredible view, as it always seems to be.  Do people ever get used to the mountain views?  I don’t think I would.  As someone who grew up in southern Ontario, they’re so fascinating to me.

After that we walked about 5 minutes to a restaurant perched on a hill, around 1000 metres above sea level.  It was so cute!  A fairly large place, with lots of seating indoors and outdoors.  We sat inside as it was probably around 35 degrees outside.  I was feeling a little ill from the heat, especially by the end of the meal, but I tried to enjoy myself as best I could!  The food was delicious – mushroom soup first, then a plate full of various Slovenian food.  I got what’s in the photo below, but those who ate meat got a platter to share filled with other food!  It was really tasty, although the vegetables could have done with some seasoning.  The roll-thing on the left was I believe cheese and maybe potato or dough, the pastry-thing was made with spinach and squash, and there was a large piece of breaded and baked cheese that was gooey inside.  A super refreshing water was served too, made with elderflower and citrus with a hint of mint.  I’ve never had it before but it’s all I want to drink now.

I was so incredibly full after lunch, I wasn’t sure if I would be able to walk down the hill back to Erika’s.  I walked slowly with Rachel, and we picked wildflowers as we walked back.  It was so peaceful!  When we got back we laid some blankets out on the ground and just sat on them and chatted.  It was very necessary after stuffing ourselves!  Erika also brought out some homemade tiramisu, which of course I couldn’t refuse.  It was a wonderful day off and I’m glad we could see Erika and Luka again.   

It was an early night for most of us because we have to get up early nearly every day.  For a day off, we still did a lot!  But it was so satisfying! Even though this is a research trip and we’re focusing on the projects and our fieldwork and analysis, it’s important to still have time to relax and have fun. I just needed one day out of this trip to be like that!

Tomorrow I’ll post about my day in Austria.  That will be a shorter post, but I’ll have a lot of analysis to do tonight!  Make sure to check out my photos in the post below~

#slovenia #postojna #caves #travel #travelog #travel tumblr #20170709