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Assorted Bob Feral Bends Forest Farm Innisfree Leaf Litter Phenology Journal

Tiny Toads

Things are getting biblical around our pond. The frogs and toads were delighted to find a permanent water source for breeding, so it’s swirling with tadpoles. And now the tadpoles are emerging in large numbers, starting with the toads, who were the first to host an orgy at the pond this spring.

 

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Assorted Bob Dog Bob

Four years of hijinks with The Pook

Four years ago today, the fun began. It started with a Facebook ad for “Pup BI.” I’ve had a lot of great dogs over the years, but no one compares to Althea, whom we affectionately call The Pook. I spent a few hours this morning going through pictures of our life together.

This was the start of it all. When I saw this photo I knew I had to adopt her. Best move ever.
Althea and me at the Meigs County Animal Shelter on the day I adopted her.

It’s hard to believe she was once this small … She’s about 70 pounds now.
Althea snoozes after running amok.
Althea discovered the dishwasher was a cool place to hang out.
Althea is obsessed with riding in the truck, dating back to this trip to Florida in 2022. It’s gotten so bad that I have to spell the phrase Ride in the Truck to avoid inciting a Pook riot.
Althea has been exploring the forest since she was old enough to walk. She’s the ultimate hiking dog.
Althea was one of two maids of honor at our wedding in September 2024. She’s obsessed with Laura.
Althea and Winter, her stepsister, get along pretty well. They’re not besties but they share a deep love of Laura and a visceral hatred of squirrels. We call them frenemies.
Althea at rest in 2025.
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Assorted Bob Feral Bends Forest Farm Leaf Litter Uncategorized

It’s fledgling season …

This little bird was on the deck at Dove Cottage when I exited last night after doing laundry. It’s a flycatcher, Laura things maybe an Acadian Flycatcher. Fortunately, Althea was snoozing in the grass and never noticed it, so I left it to its own devices and it was gone this morning when we went by. I think its mother was nearby last night and probably swooped in after I left.