Photo by Marion J Chard

Here in Michigan as elsewhere, ticks can not only be annoying but darn right dangerous, as they can carry diseases such as Lymes. I’ve been lucky so far this year, and only found one on my person, ick, early in May.

Upon reading a few articles this week, I discovered that many backyard animals and birds eat ticks, so if you are lucky enough to have them around, it is a bonus. Obviously, they aren’t the cure all, so it’s always wise to be cautious and to take preventative measures, such as wearing long sleeves, and tucking your jeans into your socks, and of course, using one of the many mosquito and tick sprays, etc.

old oil poured into the kitchen waste from the pan, clogging the waste in the sink

I’m still appalled when I see people pour cooking oil and food grease down the drain. You’re doing what? I have never done that and never will. I learned many moons ago how harmful oil and grease are not only …

Grease down the drain, never! Read more »

A naturally occurring parasite is now threatening these monarch butterflies. It’s a parasite called OE (Ophryocystis elektroscirrha), and it thrives on a plant that, ironically, is mandatory for monarchs’ survival. The plant is milkweed. Pam Murfey, the Panhandle Butterfly House’s …

Monarch butterflies in Northwest Florida! Read more »