Infographic: The chemistry behind the colours of autumn leaves

We will be raking soon so I thought this infographic might be of interest. Enjoy!

http://visual.ly/track.php?q=http://visual.ly/chemistry-behind-colors-autumn-leaves-infographic&slug=chemistry-behind-colors-autumn-leaves-infographic

From Visually.

Last of the springtime blooms

Well we missed much of the spring here but I have managed to at least see a few springtime blooms.

There are no daffodils left but the tulips and lilac are still holding on. It is the last bit of colour until the summer blooms start to show their stuff. 

   
  
  

A gift for the birds this Christmas

We checked up on the Schoolhouse this weekend and made sure that we left a little something for the birds.

We’ve left some feed out around the property. Provided the squirrels don’t get there first the birds should have a bit of a Christmas treat. It’s the least we can do until our new bird feeder is installed. Pat is working on something for the spring. And it is a good excuse to get up there more often.

Shovelling tips: An infographic

Well it looks like we are finally getting some serious snow!

Here is a bit of info to watch for when you shovel your walks and driveways this winter! The stats are from the US but you get the idea. Stay safe!

Admitting to defeat

I believe I must admit that this year the mice are winning.

Upon arriving at the schoolhouse last night we discovered the mouse traps and poison I had laid out has been largely ignored. Except of course the box of extra poison I bought which seems to be covered in mouse poop.

This may be a losing battle…

Summer is over and so is fall

Well it appears that not only is summer over but so is fall.

Ok so autumn isn’t over for a few weeks but it sure does feel like it. I don’t have any wintry schoolhouse shots yet but the ones from this fall are a reminder that winter is on its way.

It always looks a little lonely at this time of year.

There are so many leaves to rake. I laugh at anyone with a suburban yard!

The yard was still green when we last raked but I doubt I will find it such now.

Turns out this lady is a bit of a bitch

Well after a bit of research it looks like the Asian Lady Beetle has come to visit.

I asked about the strange orange bugs I’ve noticed in the country and city in the last post. Turns out she is an ugly cousin of the beloved ladybug.

The Real Dirt: Asian lady beetle a North American pest

And by the sounds of it she is a bit of a bitch. I think she may get escorted off the premises if she comes back.

Not very ladylike

Have you seen these?
They seem to be everywhere these days. I saw this group outside our condo the other day but we have them at the schoolhouse as well. Hibernating indoors until spring when they come out to pester. They ain’t ladybugs that is for sure.

Bump in the night

After being away for just a couple of weeks it seems that the mice decided to make their way back into the house. Standard practice around here.

Another day of cleaning out the drawers and wishing the vacuum with the pokey thing was here instead of at the condo.

Sigh. Ah well. It look like they are also taking the bait so here is hoping that is our last visit for now.

Turning over an old leaf: An infographic

Well it is officially autumn.

After a recent trip to Sudbury I noticed the leaves were starting to turn. A favorite time of year! So here is an infographic I found that talks a little bit about the leaves and their lovely fall colours.