International Women's Day

It's tough fighting through physical and mental health issues, as many know.
It's my youngest son's birthday today (35). He's not speaking to me. I was, apparently, a horrid mother! That said, he graduated high school, went to university on a full scholarship, and now works for StatCan. I must have done SOMETHING right!

My other two children (in Ottawa and Vancouver) have families: two girls each! I am proud of them all.

My daughter is amazing (M.Sc.). It's International Women's Day, and she works so hard taking care of our family. I sent her flowers!

I sent her a note:

You are the glue that holds our little family together. You balance your in-laws and outlaws, our family, your friends.

Lately, I feel I’ve been falling apart, for that I am sorry. You have been a rock. I’m so proud of you, and your science. On March 8th, International Women’s Day, you are a shining beacon of hope for the present and the future.

Saturday, March 7th

I went walkies. I was grossed out at first, but then looked more closely! This is a piece of fungus, covered in springtails (snow fleas) doing what springtails do.



While the wetland melts, the snow is still up to my boots in the forest.



Meanwhile, back on the ranch...



Temperatures have been hovering around zero, then Saturday morning it was -10 C. and somewhat chilly.



The temperatures rose during the day, and kittens worked their claws on the scrathing post.

Sunday morning

JB took over the bathroom first. I lay in bed, listening to the news, waiting for my turn, and there was a crash of shattered glass. A mug. I usually ease into the day as my back loosens up. Not this morning! I had him stay out of the kitchen, as there was glass as far as the dining room. JB says, "It's like a bomb went off, the way it shattered." We'll be picking pieces up for days.

He hauled Nutmeg out of the sink yesterday, so we have a culprit. Cinnamon tends to defer to her.

Outside, there were 19 deer. We will miss them in the summer, once things begin growing they disappear into the wetland. Except for some, who like my hosta.

 Count 'em!

Spring songs

It's miserable, this in-between season. Walking is horrid in the forest. JB's been going to the arena running track for workouts. He has a new pillow for his back support.

Off I went

I love getting out in the fresh air, but walking isn't so pleasant. There is much melting water. And moss is green!!!!



A mystery bird... you can see the difficulty identifying it! The sounds of the wetland are lovely, though!




The chickadees fly about the shoreline of the wetland, which is becoming increasingly wet.



One winter this fine feathered friend stuck around all winter!



JB took pity on me, and took me out to dinner after my volunteer work.



It's the first video, and proof. We've had winters where the robins didn't fly south (see above), but I know this is part of the magic of the changing of the seasons.




Of course, Butch raccoon!

STC_0003 from Jennifer Jilks on Vimeo.

I can smell spring!

In the daytime, the cats are vigilant. They are concerned about the red squirrel!

The deer are after my candytuft.

The shoreline of the wetland is showing signs of spring!

Our driveway is melting.

Cancun, Mexico

With so many people I know on vacay and/or warmer climes...

• son and family in Cancun, Mexico
• Ed in Hawaii
• Jennifer in Mexico
• Gaelyn in Arizona
• Dale in Florida
• Daughter and family NZ next month,

the bright green of the white pines is lovely!



The snow fleas, springtails, are gathering in my boot prints.

Then, the crazy turkeys.


The turkeys are hilarious!



Finally, the coyote on the trailcam!

Butch is awake!

Tuesday, March 3rd

They visited again. At night. One bailed right away. Since they won't wear name tags, we figure our our critters by their behaviour. I think these are our 4 release raccoons. We never see 4, unless it is a momma with triplets. I think she lost one back in the fall.

By their behaviour, and number, I think this is Mary Kate, Ashley, Taco and Burrito! (We released them last October from our local rehab: Rideau Valley Wildlife Sanctuary Release) They were after the bird feeder under the eaves!

Wed., March 5th

Last night, there was a raccoon on the back deck. Nutmeg noticed it. I went out, and the cat food tin, with kitchen grease, has been found! I meant to freeze it and then throw it out. Well, it is gone! I'll likely find it in the forest somewhere.