Greensboro Daily Photo

St Timothy's United Methodist Church

Yesterday, we featured part of the property, one of the lakes, on the property at St. Timothy's United Methodist Church, located at 5228 Hilltop Road is what is actually Jamestown. In traveling along Hilltop Road, we saw at least four churches. Some are giant like Gate City Baptist and Community Fellowship Church. Others are smaller like St. Timothy's UMC and The Unitarian Universalist Church up near College Road. St. Timothy's in a small, but inclusive church with the following welcome statement, "At St. Timothy's, we practice the radical welcome of God and we believe that all people are of equal sacred worth and dignity. And ALL means ALL, y’all! We embrace and affirm people of all ages, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, family structures, economic status, political persuasions, physical and mental abilities, and faith histories. " 

This is a church with women at the helm. Rev. Nikki Raye Rice is pastor and Nancy Cole is lead musician and choir director.  This little church, nestled in the woods, just a stone's throw away from Adam's Farm and retail on West Wendover, is a gem of a respite where God, people, good deeds, nature, and music converge. If you are interesting in visiting, outdoor services should start at 11am today. See here for more details. Happy Sunday!

Musings from the Lake at St. Timothy's

Today's photo was taken just off of Hilltop road, on the property of St. Timothy's United Methodist Church. We'll feature the actual church tomorrow, but for today, we're sharing this little spot that is perfect for reflecting and appreciating nature. It is right across from Adam's Farm at Adam's Farm Parkway. Hilltop used to be a sleepy little two lane road; now it is four lanes with a turn lane in the middle. A thin layer of trees separates this quite area from traffic and the bustle of suburbia. There are even benches for quiet reflection along St. Timothy's ponds. We are sitting on one installed by Jack and Pat Lambert in memory of Bill Shelor and Margie Kirby. What an act of love to install a bench.

 It is hard to believe that in the late 1980's, this whole area was woods and that soon, what was 710 acres of trees and fields would become 1,600 houses and 900 apartments. Adams Farm, just across the street from this spot, was a one of Greensboro's early big, planned-unit,  suburban developments.*  Adams Farm has its own, lake- 17 acres. Soon, we'll wander over to and take some photos at Adams Farm. It is hard to imagine that those first babies born in Adams Farm are now are now in their mid 30s!. As for today, we'll sit right here, listening to birds chirp and frogs croak, admiring these beautiful, yet tenacious daisies. 

Wonder what we would see and hear, were we to sit here until church starts in the morning. 

 

* Read this interesting News & Record article about the Adams Farm neighborhood concept here. (We are so thankful to community journalism and the archives it establishes).

Fledglings Vs. Nestlings

Do you know the difference between a fledgling and a nestling? Above, is a fledgling. Its parents, a pair of cardinals, were nearby, monitoring this baby bird's every move. It couldn't quite fly yet, but could hop around and balance on branches. This baby is a fledgling and should be left alone to continue on its journey to learning to fly. We saw it when we were on a walk in northwest Greensboro, near Horse Pen Creek Road. A nestling is a bird that can't even stand on its own, and it almost looks naked Nestlings, probably won't survive if they fall out of the nest, but fledglings will. As a matter of fact, their road to flying is being scaffolded. Greensboro's own Happy Tails Veterinary Clinic shares a lot about baby animals, here.a lot

We took the above photo a few weeks ago; so, by now, there aren't as many fledglings in Greensboro. But, we can still be on the lookout for small animals and, in most cases, let nature take its course. We hope you have a happy Friday and that you get out to explore the city a little today. Complete unrelated to baby birds, but, related to things to do in Greensboro, please consider attending Porchfest in Dunleath tomorrow. Unfortunately, we won't be able to stop by, but there will be so much live music going on in the neighborhood. Please check out the events (HERE), and do be on the lookout for animals in the road... including humans!

 

Spirit of Life

Do you ever notice a path and take it to see where it leads? We did that the other day, not too far from Lake Higgins. Initially, we were struck by the change in elevation*; the hill was quite steep. Sometimes Greensboro seems like it is completely flat, but as you head north of the city, change in elevation becomes more apparent. At the bottom of the hill in the photo, beside this triangular, moss-covered boulder, with birds chirping all around, Carolyn McDade's song, spirit of life came to mind. 

Spirit of Life, come unto me.
Sing in my heart all the stirrings of compassion.
Blow in the wind, rise in the sea;
Move in the hand, giving life the shape of justice.
Roots hold me close; wings set me free;
Spirit of Life, come to me, come to me.

These six lines are so calming and peaceful. While most closely associated with the Unitarian Universalist church (see here), the message seems fitting for any religion. We hope you have a lovely Sunday and that perhaps take that walk off the beaten path and find your special secret place in Greensboro. 

*Officially, Greensboro's elevation is listed as 892'. Having spent the last thirteen years trying to develop expertise on Greensboro, we reckon we should know elevation, and population (291,303). We get asked the population question a lot, but don't think we've ever been asked about Greensboro's elevation.

Oh, Groundhog

It is so fun to go on walks in Greensboro. You never know what you are going to see. This one was seen foraging along Jessup Grove Road. Groundhogs are largest species in the squirrel family. With these warm, dry days, groundhogs have been out in full force.  This one was either a juvenile or one that hasn't been out of hibernation long. It was very skinny. The dark markings on the fur were curious.

Some people, especially gardeners, see them as destructive pests. Actually, they are important in the food chain. They mostly eat plants (and sometime garden vegetables), but they also eat grubs and snails. Their favorite place to forage is just like the area above, the transition edge between open, grassy areas and thickets. If you see big mounds of soil and a deep hole, chances are you have a groundhog. The above groundhog must accustomed to lots of road noise as it wasn't nearly as skittish as most. They are native to North Carolina and populations are said to be stable, actually increasing. The groundhog at the Greensboro Science Center died in 2013, and, the last we heard, he hadn't been replaced. Wonder if they are in the market for one! Happy Wednesday; we know, hump day, not Groundhog Day!

2426 Camden Road

Yesterday afternoon, Camden Road was filled with families out for a stroll. Some children were riding bicycles, one toddler was dressed in a princess outfit, many people had dogs, neighbors were in their front yards talking. Truly, the Sunset Hills/Lindley Park neighborhoods were enjoying every moment of the overcast skies. Temperatures were in the mid-60s, but it seemed cooler since the sun wasn't out. The above photo is of 2426 Camden Road, just a few blocks away from Lindley Elementary School. According to the signage in the yard, this house has a graduating senior. Most of the schools are having in-person graduation services this year. Let's hope that is the case for this soon-to-be graduate.

This house, built in 1927, is a lot bigger than it looks from the front. According to Zillow, it is 2,400 square feet with five bedrooms and two baths. The landscaping on the property continues to delight people who are out strolling along the sidewalks. As you can see, the front yard of the house is filled with raised beds, and right now, the foxgloves are putting on a glorious show. Foxglove stems were a big hit when they were at the Corner Market on Walker and Elam. Now, we're wondering if by chance they came from this house! We're also wondering if the black cat lives here, or if he has just stopped by for a visit.

Happy Monday! We hope you have a great week and you are in a position to get out and enjoy all of the effort people are putting into their Greensboro yards.

Black Rat Snake Time

OK Greensboro,  the weather has warmed and snakes are out now. We saw this black rat snake in our backyard this weekend. They are not snakes that look for trouble. The snake saw me before I saw him and he froze, hoping not to draw any attention to himself. These snakes are non-venomous but will strike if they don't have a choice. However, their real superpower is that they are proficient climbers. Somehow, they can scale walls and trees with no evidence of having any way to grip. They earned their name because they eat their fair share of mice and rodents. If you see one, please leave it alone. 

The North Carolina Wildlife Commission is a great place to start to learn more about snakes.* There is also a Facebook group called N.C. Snake Identification & Education. If you don't mind seeing photos of snakes, this is a great place to learn about snakes and really to become less afraid of them. Happy Thursday and sorry, if you are feeling you can't "unsee" this photo!

 

*see here. 

Tulip Poplar Time in Greensboro

Those who are pollen sensitive know that trees are just about completely leafed out in Greensboro. The above photo is of a blossom that dropped from a tulip poplar tree. The tulip poplars get their name from the green/orange flowers the tree produces. It is actually more closely related to the magnolia tree than either a tulip or a poplar* It is the state tree of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana; however, it grows well in Greensboro. The tree itself is pretty because it tends to grow straight and it is one of the tallest hardwoods.

If you have one in your yard, or you see one, let us know. This one was seen on a property in northeast Greensboro. Bees are known to make honey from the nectar in these flowers. Happy Monday!

* Reference and more information, here.

Elizabeth Hawks Herring Garden

Today's photo features one of the main views at the Elizabeth Hawks Herring Garden. It is located on the northeast side of campus at UNCG. Dr. William B. Herring, MD funded the garden in memory of his wife who was a great lover of music and gardening. So, the garden is perfect in its location beside the school of music. If you read about it (here), The design of the garden takes into consideration the sounds and movement of music. There are also areas conducive to practicing music, and we shared one such example last week. For over 20 years, the garden has delighted students, and the public.

The rock to the left of the birdbath has the following inscription, "No bird soars too high if he soars with his own wings." - William Blake. This birdbath is dedicated in the loving memory of Elizabeth Hawks Herring by her many devoted friends and fellow members of the UNCG Musical Arts Guild. September 19, 2004." What a special place. Thank you, Dr. Herring  for this great garden.

5207 W. Friendly Avenue

This house at 5207 West Friendly Avenue, built in 1939, has so much charm. It sold on April 1st and the new owners must be delighting in those azalea bushes, some of which are 10 feet high. This .5 acre property is located at the westernmost edge of Hamilton Lakes, right across from Guilford College. This Friendly Avenue house was built back when this this end of the county was rather rural.

In 1939, there was no Quaker Village; Hamilton Lakes had not yet been annexed into the City of Greensboro (1957); the town of Guilford College had not yet been annexed (1972). Still, if you drive past this property, you may not notice the house as the landscaping wraps around the property, buffering the house from the road. Drive on the Cannon Road side of the property and it will feel like you stepped back in time. It feels so peaceful and rural you may wonder if it is 1939 again. May the new owners enjoy their little house of tranquility. Happy Wednesday!

Life Along McDowell Drive

Today, we take you to 1204 McDowell Drive in the Green Valley area of Greensboro. This neighborhood is between Friendly Center and the Tanger Bicentennial Garden. It is so beautiful this time of year with all of the azaleas and dogwoods in bloom. The 3 bedroom 2 bathroom house above was built in 1963, back in the days when the satellite neighborhoods (Lake Jeanette, Adams Farm, Carlson Farms, etc.) were not even on the radar screen.

In 1963, David Schenck was mayor and there was a Civil Rights march that year. This was the year that The Women's College changed its name to University of North Carolina at Greensboro.* Meanwhile, back at 1204 McDowell, it was a new street in a neighborhood with streets named after many of the counties of North Carolina.  In 1963, there was a family enjoying their new house and new beginnings in a very beautiful part of town. These azaleas look like they may have been planted since then; however, their pink and white beauty represents a view so common in the years of Greensboro.

Happy Saturday! You still have time to get out and enjoy the beauty of spring in Greensboro.

*reference and interesting timeline, here.

Robert G. Shaw Piedmont Triad Farmers Market

This past weekend, the Robert G. Shaw Piedmont Triad Farmers Market on Sandy Ridge was filled with beautiful plants and people were out getting flowers and vegetables to plant in their gardens. The parking lots were full; such a drastic change from this time last year. As you can see in the background, people were honoring the wearing of masks and making an effort to socially distance. As you can see in the foreground, the available plants are healthy and beautiful. 

This large indoor/outdoor market is one of five operated by the state of North Carolina. If you are in a farmers market sort of cook, here is a list of farmers markets throughout North Carolina. Every time you visit another community throughout North Carolina, a stop at the farmers market is a great way to get to know a community!

Happy Monday!

Lady Banks Roses In Full Bloom!

Today is our annual Lady Banks Climbing Rose Day. Every year around this time, we stop on Ridgeway Avenue to visit this prolific, thornless bloomer. While these roses are small, the clusters make a beautiful display. The beautiful evergreen foliage loved to climb on fences and arbors and will stay beautiful all year long. They are also disease and pest resistant. 

This little bush in Sunset Hills was first featured on Greensboro Daily Photo back in 2010 and, shortly thereafter, an NCA&T professor tracked town the owner to get permission to get a cutting off of this bush. Someday, we hope to know if that cutting has matured. After eleven years, it should be a beauty in its own right. It is one of the earliest blooming of all roses and it is always fun to record when they bloom. Mark these as blooming, in Greensboro, North Carolina in the first few days of April!

Happy Friday. It is going to be another great day in Greensboro! That link in the above paragraph will lead you to some Lady Banks fun facts, if you are interested.

Gaslight Apartments

The Gaslight Apartments are located in the 1100 block of West Friendly Avenue on the southern edge of Westerwood. The apartments/condos are part of a 16-unit complex, just west of the Friendly Avenue Baptist Church. They have twelve one-bedroom and four two bedroom units. They are owned by the Kairys Group, a commercial real estate company located in Chapel Hill. The Kairys Group purchased the apartments, renovated them, and have made quite a return on their investment. 

Also part of the renovation was painting the red brick and enhancing the landscaping. We always notice the Gaslight Apartments when the trees in front are blossoming. The pale pink blossoms really make the off-white, brick apartments stand out. Have a look next time you are driving by. And do hurry, the trees are greening out before our eyes.

Happy Easter 2021!

This hyacinth volunteers in a scruffy, unkempt flowerbed, coming back every year near Easter- a tangible reminder of the story of rebirth. The bulbs tolerate the Greensboro winters just fine, without any special attention. Nature just drops down a few leaves from nearby deciduous trees and, every spring, the bulbous fragrant plant pushes away the natural mulch and again shares its natural beauty. 

Today is the second Easter where Covid is affecting services. Some churches are open with social distancing measures in place. Others are still meeting online. Have you ever wondered how many churches there are in Greensboro? We have! The closest we can get to finding out is on Churchfinder.com (see HERE for Greensboro), where 300 churches are listed. So, that is a good place to start. We like to post something spiritual, reflective, or inspired by nature, every Sunday. We're going to review this list and try to find churches we've never featured over the last 13 years. Stay tuned...

... in the meantime: If you know of someone who is housebound for any reason, consider taking them a hyacinth today- little bit of spring. The scent of hyacinth is heavenly. If you receive one and are not in a position to replant it, find a friend with a yard to to plant it for you, and anticipate seeing it again next year! Let's fill our Greensboro yards with the bulbs!

Petals Lining East Lake Drive Leading to Music at 100 McIver St!

Today on this first day of April, we're featuring the petals that have fallen to the ground this week, in preparation for the leaves that are about to fill out on the trees. The petals reminds us that spring is the season of rejuvenation and abrupt change. There will be nothing subtle with what is about to happen to the landscape of Greensboro. From this ground level orientation, the eye moves to the horizon line. This view from East Lake Drive leads to Market Street and the UNCG School of Music is the brick building in the background.

The Music Building has been open since 1999- already 22 years ago!  As we enter April, many students will be holding concerts are part of their coursework and requirements for graduation. The concerts will delight you, if you get a chance to attend or to stream. UNCG is being diligent about following pandemic protocols and live concerts have very limited seating. Some can be watched online. Here is a list if you are interested. As a matter of fact, there are two tonight!

 

Heavenly View on Palm Sunday

This time of year, we always find outselves drawn to the area around Westover Church on Muirs Chapel Road. Trees in bl0om surround the church and the perimeter of the parking lot.  The above view is along Tower Road,  facing west. The pattern in the sky looks like rays of white radiating out from the horizon. In reality, the white stripes are probably contrails from jets heading into the airport. Regardless, they punctuate the view of the trees.

For Christians, today is Palm Sunday. While the above photos are not palms, they remind us of the road, the path of this first day of Holy Week. If you are interested in learning more about Westover Terrace, see their website here. If you want to see the above view, you'd better head to Muirs Chapel and Tower Road quickly as before you know it, the pink and white blossoms will be replaced by green foliage. Happy Palm Sunday!

 

Quiet Afternoon At Hamburger Square

Hamburger Square is located in the heart of downtown Greensboro. This view is at the corner of South Elm Street and McGee Street. Some days, this very space is filled with people and performers during downtown events. At times, a state is set up here for performers. Yesterday, all was quiet here and sometimes a quiet and peaceful walk is so meaningful, especially after a long day at work. In the distance, you can see the trestle bridge that was recently refurbished and repainted. It sees a lot of train traffic daily. Since 1851, Greensboro has been a big part of the NC Railroad Corridor, the very reason the city is nicknamed The Gate City.

There are many open spaces in Greensboro and remember there are many great shops, restaurants, and other businesses just waiting for you to stop in for a visit. We hope you have a great weekend and that you find time to head downtown. Just in front of the magnolia tree on the left are free-standing DGSO letters. They are perfect for a photo opportunity. No doubt where the photo was taken when you are in front of those letters.

Royal Star Magnolia

In Greensboro, spring is such a special season. The flora and landscape changes before our eyes. The above plant is a bloom on a royal star magnolia tree. The blooms of this tree were absolutely perfect last week. The royal star magnolia is an early blooming, fast growing tree. The white showy blooms come out before any signs of foliage. This specimen is at the Greensboro Arboretum and is clearly labeled as a royal star magnolia.

Plants have responded positively to all the rain we've had in Greensboro over the past several months. If you want to learn more about plants and plants that do well in our community, any of the local lawn and garden centers will be happy to assist you. If you want to be involved at a deep level, please visit the website of Greensboro Beautiful. Since 1968, they have been working diligently to conserve and enhance the beauty and ecology of the area. Perhaps you would be interested in volunteering with this group. 

Chalk Walk 2021

Last weekend, on Sunday, March 14th, the Greensboro Parks and Recreation Department hosted a Chalk Walk event in the Greensboro Arboretum. There were 33 participants. The above photo features the winning entry for the 18+age  category. The koi pond was drawn by Lauren Ward, a Guilford County Schools art teacher. How wonderful that the artist behind this beautiful drawing shares her talent with the children of Greensboro.

This scene is also an example of how Greensboro has gotten really creative about having events. The Chalk Walk got people out in a socially distanced way to enjoy a sunny afternoon. People walked through the exhibit and a few runners were seen along the way. With or without special events, The Greensboro Arboretum is a very special space in our community. Trees and plants have labels on them, so you can learn as you go. The day we visited, shadows added a lot of intrigue to the adventure. Happy Wednesday! 

The Beautiful Greensboro Arboretum

The Greensboro Arboretum is 17-acres of glorious green space between Ashland Avenue and West Market Street. According to the Greensboro Beautiful website, there are 14 plant collections at the Arboretum. From the Jim Gallucci arched entranceway to the butterfly garden, it is the kind of place where every time you go, you can see something different. One time you may focus on plantings, another, on the structural features. The Arboretum is a very different place when events are being held there, like Summer Solstice, Candlefest, or one of the art events.

Last weekend,  The Greensboro Parks and Recreation department hosted a chalk walk here, where individuals and groups made chalk drawings on the promenade and visitors voted through their phones. The above photo was taken from a bridge at the end of the Arboretum closest to Lindley Park- near the chalk drawings. As you can see, the forsythia have their yellow blooms now and it has been so rainy lately that the stream is full. If you are looking for something lovely to do this weekend, consider heading to the Arboretum. If you think this seen looks like spring, you should walk through the Arboretum and you will experience what spring FEELS like! This lovely space is now open from 8 am- 7 pm.

Yesterday Was a Rainbow Afternoon In Greensboro!

Yesterday's rainbow in Greensboro (and High Point) was glorious. At about 6:30, the sun came out, after a dark day with the threat of strong winds and a torrential downpour. The above view of the rainbow was just west of North Battleground Avenue. It is easy to focus on the bad, but we need to remember to look for the good. The rainbow is, perhaps, the most glorious of all weather events. 

Even though today promises to be a rainy day, remember to be on the lookout for the rainbow, even if it isn't a literal rainbow. If you are looking for something to do tonight, events are starting up again. Here is a list of some local happenings. There are options from Friday Nite Live with DJ Deron Juan at Boston's on Arnold Street to a performance of Porgy and Bess at the Well-Spring Theatre.

Happy Friday, Greensboro!

Stacking Wood: After the Storm

Let's hope the anticipated high winds predicted don't materialize in Greensboro today. The possibility of high winds got us thinking about our most recent storms. When we had the ice storm about a month ago, we were passing this house on Hedrick Drive and noticed this wood cut and piled ever so neatly. We started to stop and see if it was available for firewood, but didn't. That would be a nice gesture, though. If you have a branch that falls, to cut it up and, if you don't need it, share it with friends who have fire pits, fireplaces, or who like to grill with wood. If there is one thing we have learned in this pandemic year is that even when we are alone, we can find ways to be together and to help each other. Greensboro comes by its name honestly and we are a community with a lot of trees. Let's hope our trees weather this one with grace.

There are some fabulous places in the area to purchase firewood (like Ace Firewood in McLeansville and Storm-Felled Firedwoods in Browns Summit). You never know, they may also take wood off your hand. Be safe everyone!

Friendly Avenue Church of Christ

The tree with the pink blossoms in front of Friendly Avenue Church of Christ is so beautiful. We were driving along Friendly Avenue the other day, had just had to pull off and get a photo. Spring is like that. If you don't take a photo immediately, the next time you look, the landscape will have changed- especially if it rains. The church is at 5101 West Friendly Avenue, in the event that you want to attend, or simply to keep an eye out for this glorious little tree as you drive past.

Friendly Avenue Church of Christ is a dynamic church with English, Spanish, and Deaf Ministries. They offer sermons online and have a robust calendar of activities happening in the church. Music is an important part of the church and they have a very active Praise Team. Here is the website if you want to learn more about Friendly Avenue Church of Christ. They offer a hybrid worship service that you can watch through their Facebook page at 10:15 today. The stream opens at 10:00 in case you want to make sure your technology is working. We didn't see a church history online and couldn't find a cornerstone when we visited the other day. The church is a beautiful, expansive building- with plenty of parking.

Happy Sunday, however you choose to spend it.

Sunny Days

This week has been gloriously sunny in Greensboro. The above photo shows what we do in Greensboro when the sun is out! We head to a spot in nature to sit in the sun and read a good book. The above photo was taken at Peabody Park, a mixed hardwood forest on the north end of UNCG's campus. This 34-acre tract of land is billed as a pleasant retreat for students (faculty and staff, too). The above photo is evidence! The trees on the acreage range from saplings to mature, canopy trees. There are also perennial herbs, a small (small) pond, and two streams on site. 

If you are good at identifying plants and animals, Peabody Park is a great place to explore. It is one of only two known spaces in Guilford County where the horsetail plant if found. Read more about the park, here. Everybody deserves a "go to" place to enjoy nature and to escape the trappings of the digital area. It looks like the above student has, indeed, found just that space! Happy Saturday and, get ready for that time change.

Spring Is Almost Here, Greensboro!

Something about this glorious weather the last few days has everyone in Greensboro realizing it is almost spring! Today and tomorrow, it will be over 70ºF. Daffodils are popping up everywhere, including our own backyard. When these, reliable, spring flowering perennials pop up, we know winter is letting go. Daffodils are hardy, multiply quickly, are not fussy about soil and don't seem to be of interest to rabbits and deer. If you don't have some already, consider heading to one of our local garden stores and purchasing a container. Even grocery stores have them this time of year.

If you don't have a yard, there are so many public places to walk, including the parks in Greensboro, where you can see all of the changes nature brings forth this time of year. Hyacinths and tulips won't be far behind! Happy Thursday and happy nine more days until spring!

(And because we know some of our dear friends will ask, yes is was necessary to stretch out on the ground to get this photo).

Camellias

Yesterday we featured hellebores; today it is camellias. This northwest Greensboro camellia bush is blooming in full glory. It is fighting hard to keep its blooms bright as the ice surrounds it. This photo show the beauty of the Greensboro landscape. Even when trees have dropped their leaves, there are holly trees (to the left) camellias and other evergreens to add color and texture to the landscape. If you absolutely love camellias, many local nurseries sell them; however, there is also a nursery that specializes in them. Cam Too Camellia Nursery is located at 805 Oakbury Court. It is located off of Highway 150, just west of Northern High School and a stone's throw from Gethsemane Garden Nursery. Established in 1982, the nursery encompasses 60 acres. The excitement of a specialty nursery is that the owners work diligently to produce hardier, more resilient, and more beautiful varieties with a longer blooming season. When you go to these specialty nurseries in Greensboro, and you show a sincere interest in their product, you have a friend for life!

We hope you are warm, safe, and making the most of what Leslie Jordan calls "hunkering down"! 

Colonial Home on Bennington Road

Yesterday, we featured the historic marker for Guilford College Woods on Bennington Road. Today, let's have a look at a beautiful home on the same road. This home at 4902 was built in 1983. The 4 bedroom 3 bathroom home is such a beautiful home at the edge of the woods. This colonial brick home is known as a 5 over 4 for the number of windows on the second floor and on the first.

Everything about the exterior of this house is so well appointed. The cool, cloudy weather brings out a special glow in the house. The moss from the woods has spread across the street to this property and is especially beautiful on a rainy day. You can also see that tree that recently toppled in this yard. There were many trees down in the neighborhood. Fortunately, on this property, the tree fell away from the house and not on the house! Fortunately, there are still plenty of trees in their yard and in their neighborhood. As we learn about more bad weather on the way, let's hope everyone in the above neighborhood, and yours, remains safe!

Guilford College Woods on Fat Tuesday, 2021

Visiting the Jefferson Road and Bennington Drive yesterday, we noted several trees down as a result of the ice storm and extra soggy soil. Some people are still without power as a result of this recent bout of winter weather in Greensboro. The overcast, foggy weather seemed to highlight the beauty of the woods. The carpet of green moss is absolutely lovely this time of year. Notice how it appears at the edge of the woods, turns a vibrant green as it approaches the blanket of leaves, and then, just stops. Continue through that woods and you will come out at Guilford College. We will type what the historic marker says, as it can be a little difficult to read from the above angle."

"240-acre oasis of biodiversity. Land of Saura and Keyawee, settled by European American Friends (Quakers) in the 1700s. Site of encampment of British and American troops in the Revolutionary War. Refuge for enslaved Africans seeking freedom via the Underground Railroad and Quaker men escaping Civil War Confederate draft in the 1800s. Site of former college farm.Educational and recreational resource."

May it always remain this oasis of biodiversity! Happy Tuesday. Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday. Greensboro has never been a big Mardi Gras town; however, since tomorrow Lent begins and if you prepare for Easter through self-denial during Lent, today is your last day to live it up, hence the name Fat Tuesday. Have a great day, whether you decide to take a walk in the woods or to don some purple, green, and gold beads and join some virtual revelers in celebration.

Great Blue Herons of Greensboro

Spending time in nature has its surprises and benefits. Yesterday, we were walking near Lake Higgins, and in an isolated shallow area we happened upon this blue heron. We got so close we could even see the frayed feathers on its chest. We were lamenting the low light of the very gray day and also being without a quality camera in hand.  While the  heron is the obvious focal point of the photo, perched in the shrubs, it was actually rather camouflage and at first we didn't see it. The chest frayed chest feathers look like the sticks and twigs surrounding the heron. Beautiful creatures like the great blue heron have a way of reminding us to appreciate nature and the beauty all around use- when we have the time to look.

Seeing the heron reminded us we need to explore Blue Heron-Kingfisher Trail off of Yanceyville Road in Browns Summit. There is also a Blue Heron Trail, which is an extension of the Reedy Fork trail, accessible from North Church Street. The Blue Heron Trail was constructed by the Greensboro Flat Tire Society. We must not be the only ones being inspired by the herons. This giant bird can grow to 4 1/2 feet, but usually only weights about 5 1/2 pounds. Herons are year-rounds residents in North Carolina, and if you want to see them, it is a pretty good bet you will  simply by traversing the trails along the lakes. Happy Thursday!

The Very, Very, Light Dusting of SNOW

Early Thursday morning, the rain turned to snow in Greensboro.  While roads weren't bad, snow was melting snow and refreezing with the the temperature holding remaining near 32 degrees. The above photo shows the light dusting of snow in the northern end of the city. As you can see, the morning sun was shining brightly. Today and tomorrow are predicted to be  sunny, with temperatures ranging between a low of 21 and a high of 42. Enjoy the sunshine because there is a good chance it will snow again on Sunday. December-January are predicted to be the coldest months here. However, in Greensboro, there have been so few bad weather days this season, we really can't complain. And, just think, Monday is already February 1 and Tuesday is Candelaria/Candlemas on the Christian calendar,  and Groundhog Day on the calendar of lighthearted fun calendar. Do you celebrate either? Both? If you celebrate the former, buy some candles this weekend. As for the latter, if you want spring to arrive early, hope the groundhog does not see his shadow.

Guilford County Schools posted that all school would be remote yesterday. People on social media sites were lamenting the end of "snow days" as we have known them. Now, when it snows, instead of having no school and needing to make up a day, students simply have a day of learning remotely. The pandemic has really taught us the importance of being connected to the digital world and it has also taught us how much we enjoy being together. Have a great weekend and may you find things to do that afford a little (safe) fun.

Guilford College Lake

The Guilford College Lake dates to the 1950s when a creek that runs through campus was dammed to create the above water feature. Originally, there was a pier on the lake and it was used for swimming and boating. For college students, the lake was a real destination. Over the years it has suffered from build up of sledge and the pier, boats, and swimmers are long gone.* However, the beautiful lake still serves as an appealing campus attraction. Couples hang out there, the Class of 2012 & the Community Senate built a bonfire pit by the lake. There is playground equipment, and perhaps best of all is the flora and fauna it attracts. 

There is at least one cypress tree with "knees" poking out of the water. The above tree appears to be a cypress and the scene is reminiscent of a swamp in Charleston or Savannah. Perhaps the tree is a bald cypress and it has dropped its leaves. We'll check back in the spring to see if it greens out. Equally exciting is the male muscovy duck who lives on the pond. The muscovy duck is one of the oldest domesticated fowl species. The male of the species is the largest duck in North America.**  Hopefully there are more of these ducks. However, the day we were there, we only saw one. Beautiful views like the one above make walking and hiking so worthwhile. See you on the trails...  and who knows where else!

See this article we used for more information about the lake.

** reference and more information about muscovy ducks.

Underground Railroad in Guilford Woods

Yesterday was a beautiful, glorious day in Greensboro. With the temperature reaching 50 degrees and the sun out, it was a perfect day to take a hike. The above photo is on a nature path in Guilford Woods at Guilford College. In the 1800s, the woods was known New Garden Woods. The woods are a 240-acre, biodiverse area of land. The large tree in the center of the photo is a tulip poplar that dates before 1800; present during the operation of the Underground Railroad in Guilford County (1819- 1852).*  Also, the tree pre-dates Greensboro's founding (1808). The tree is 148 feet tall and 63.9 feet in circumference.** The peaceful seating area in front of it was provided by the Tannenbaum-Sternberger Foundation, Inc. in 2017. If you want to see the tree, it is about a .3 mile walk in from the road. But, be careful to find a legal place to park if you drive to the Guilford College Campus. Also, the terrain is very natural and uneven. You might want to take your favorite walking stick. Also note, there is a donation box near the sign at the entrance to the path. If you want to donate to a good cause, these publicly-accessible, natural spaces are treasures.

This week, we will feature a couple more photos from the walk in Guilford Woods. It was the first time we'd had a chance to explore this area and actually walked from behind the athletic facility, where it is OK to park on the weekends, through the woods, and ended up on Friendly Avenue. It is pretty easy to walk with confidence with the sun low to the horizon on these winter days. Plus, it is easier to remain oriented when there are no leaves on the trees. As a very last resort, the online directions available through our cell phones can help us find our way out. We hope you have a peaceful place to walk, whether your are in Greensboro or beyond! Happy Monday! 

• reference and more information here.
• ** see here if you are interested in learning the location of all the mighty trees in Guilford County.

The Snowy Day

Yesterday, in Greensboro, as the sun was setting, the snowflakes started sticking. The above photo shows the intersection on West Market Street, where it intersects with Friendly Avenue. Temperatures hovered in the low 30s. For a few hours after dark, it started raining melting the snow that was sticking. Then about 10pm, it started getting colder again. GCS schools were 100% remote today over concern of the impending inclement weather. It did arrive, albeit a little later than anticipated.

Usually, when the first snow comes, regardless of how short-lived, people rush out to get sleds. A good place to look is at any hardware store. If you are downtown, last time we checked, Hudson's Hill (527 South Elm Street) had them. Do you have a favorite place to sled ride in Greensboro? We often see children on the hill at Brittish Woods, near the pond at Battleground Avenue. In the event there is enough snow for sled riding, here is a 2015 News & Record article about some other good places to go sledding in the area.*  If there is a snow day and you can't get out, consider listening to this classic from 1962, written and illustrated by Ezra Jack Keats, 

 

*Terrific Sledding.

 

Sunset Over the Wells Fargo at Friendly Center

Yesterday, the sunset was glorious. Perhaps it was just because the day was a warm, bright, and sunny. The above photo was taken at Friendly Center, just off of Northline Drive near Benjamin Parkway. The façade of the Wells Fargo Bank building seemed to glow under the setting sun. Wells Fargo is actually a multinational financial services company that was founded in San Francisco, CA in 1852. However, it has several branches in Greensboro.

In searching for a local connection, we learned that Wells Fargo merged with the more-local Wachovia in 2008. By way of that merger, Robert "Patt" Patterson began working at Wells Fargo.Mr. Patterson, an NC A&T graduate, was the first Africa American in Greensboro to hold a management position at a major bank. We also learned that Wells Fargo has a Corporate Historian for the company. Two years ago, this historian, Alyssa Bentz wrote a very nice article about the now-retired Mr. Patterson. (reference, here). We hope to interview Mr. Patterson for GDP, which might be possible since he still lives in Greensboro.

For today, we'll just have to settle on enjoying this beautiful sunset.

Longer Days & Shorter Nights!

Yesterday, the winter solstice, turned out to be a glorious day in Greensboro. The temperature was well into the 50s and remained above freezing.  The above photo was taken yesterday, from the bridge at Lake Higgins. It was just before 5:00 pm and the sun was ready to dip below the horizon. The sky was minimally cloudy, meaning good visibility for The Conjunction of Jupiter and Venus-  or the Christmas Star as it is also called. Many people in Greensboro and in the Triad got photographs of that event. The best photos were taken through telescopes and the moons of Jupiter and rings of Saturn were visible. What a treat to have clear skies last night.

Yesterday, social media was buzzing about the fact that Air Force 1 was touching down in Greensboro. It is not uncommon for the US President's plane to fly into Greensboro. PTI Airport is close to Washington, D.C., the air port is not very busy, there are multiple runways, and they are long. This makes conditions ideal for approaches, landings, and take offs of the President's plane. Indeed, December 21st, 2020 was a busy day in the skies above Greensboro. On the shortest day, meteorologically speaking, conditions were perfect for landings, take offs, sunsets, and viewing planets! Now, today, days start getting longer and it should be sunny.

Life is good in Greensboro!

Beautiful Star

Tonight is the night that Jupiter and Saturn should align in a way to create a "beautiful star". Together, they will reflect light in a way that has not been seen for centuries. It might be partly sunny in Greensboro. However, maybe we will get lucky and be able to view this phenomenon just after sunset and in the southwest sky. In the above cell photo from last week, you can see the moon to the left and the tiny speck between the trees is Jupiter up front and Saturn, faintly visible behind it. If you look to the horizon, you can see that that the horizon still had a little glow from the recently setting sun.

Tonight, the moon will be a first quarter moon. If you know of a "best viewing spot", please let us know. There will also be 5-10 shooting stars per hour, if visibility is on our side.

Night will come in Greensboro a little after 5pm. See you outside!

Sunny Winter Days

Although it is still technically fall, some of these days in November and December have already started to feel like winter. Before you know it, hours of daylight will start getting longer, minute by minute. Yesterday morning, the rains in Greensboro were intense. However, by early afternoon, the clearest, most beautiful light was shining and the city was glowing. 

The above photo was taken at the little pond by the silo on Carlson Farms, which is not a part of the farm course of the Greensboro Country Club. This is an example of how glorious a fall/winter day can look. If you notice, the browns and blues just seem to go together. So many months of the year, the color green is the dominant one in our landscape. We should all have a day where we dress in the blues and browns of winter, with of course, a pop of frosty-the-snowman white- maybe in January. It is anticipated that Greensboro will get some nasty weather this evening or in the morning. If that is the case, just look at this beautiful scene above and be remind that the sun will shine again. Have a great Tuesday.

Pink Sky over Reconsidered Goods

Yesterday, early evening, fluffy pink clouds were swooshing along above Reconsidered Goods. This creative, reuse center is located at 4118 Spring Garden Street, very close to West Market Street. Reconsidered Goods has really perked up this block of Spring Garden. While there are several great restaurants and businesses in the area, RG is one of the few places where people from all walks of life come to shop. The diverse and creative types that RG attracts is heartwarming. RG is part thrift store, part store for people in need of home goods and the perfect pace to pick up arts and craft supplies. Today we got 3 strands of holiday garland, 3 calendar prints a vintage card, a bone and wood bracelet, and an unused rubber stamp that says "So many thoughtful things you do... I'm glad I've got a friend like you." The saying is perfect for stamping a heartfelt message on cards to friends. Prices start at 25¢ and everything is sold below market value.

Even better than the items we found at Reconsidered Goods was the great pink sky that greeted us as we left the parking lot. Sometimes after a long day of working from home and trying hard to self isolate, a little drive or walk, with an opportunity to see the beautiful gifts of nature, is heartwarming. Look at that beautiful sky and how it frames the store and matches the pink door!

Wear your mask, be careful out there, and take time to admire the beauty of nature! And, donate your really cool items to Reconsidered Goods. Check for store hours and their donation schedule HERE. Happy Friday! 

The Beauty of December Skies

In Greensboro, skies can be pretty gray in winter, and with not much blooming, it is as if everything is dormant and hybernating. However, when the skies are blue, the clouds low, and the sun approaching the horizon, the views are spectacular- almost dizzying. The above photo was taken off of Carlson Dairy Road, looking on to the Farm Course of the Greensboro Country Club. It is as if one is seeing the moors of Scotland. 

Sometimes it is nice to simply stop and admire the beauty surrounding us. As many people enter the busy season of the December holidays, a good view of open space in Greensboro is just plain palate cleansing. Happy Wednesday!