Greensboro Daily Photo

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!

Landscaping and Preparing for Colder Days

Thanksgiving week, there were some beautiful, fall days, and, it was as if all of Greensboro were out working on their yards. Leaves were being raked; dead branches bundled; beds were getting mulched, and more. The above photo features some holly trees being shaped. The crew working on this project in northwest Greensboro was from Benitez Landscape Lawn Services. They were working hard, taking great care to be safe and to get the holly trees balanced into a conical shape. The crew had not finished the crowns of the trees at the time of the photo. With all of the rain this year, the female hollies have really produced a lot of berries and the leaves are especially green. The texture of the foliage was especially vibrant against the cloudless, blue sky.

Today is predicted to be cold in Greensboro ranging from a low of 25°F to a high of 45°F. However, given that today is the first day of December, 'tis the season for cold weather. Happy December 1st; Happy Tuesday.

By the way, if you don't feel like doing those landscaping jobs for yourself, the number on the back of the green crew shirts for Benitez was 336-668-8076.

'Tis Camellia Time in Greensboro

'Tis the season for camellias in Greensboro. Camellias are sometimes known as Japanese roses. They were originally cultivated in Asia from the Himalayas to Japan and Indonesia. They are an evergreen shrub, known for their dark green, glossy leaves and their abundance of flowers. Did you know their is a camellia nursery in Greensboro? Actually, it is in Brown Summit, just north of Greensboro and is called Cam Too Camellia Nursery. It is a wholesale nursery started in 1982 (we're guessing by Ray Watson whose name is the only one we see on the website).

Cam Too is committed to advancing camellia cultivation, getting varieties that do better in the colder temperature ranges, bloom longer, and are more floriferous. Their nursery is on 60 acres of land off of Highway 150. We don't know if the above bush came from their nursery, but it is thriving and blooming in full glory at the corner of Mayflower Drive and Wright Avenue in Greensboro, at the edge of Sunset Hills and Lindley Park neighborhoods. The color is especially showy with the backdrop of healthy, green foliage.

Happy Almost Thanksgiving

Happy, almost Thanksgiving. There are two days of school this week for public school students who are learning in person or remotely. The colleges and universities are wrapping up their semester. It is a year to stick a little closer to home. If we pause and take time to appreciate the beauty all around us, we just may find deeper meaning in our upcoming holidays.

The above photo was taken in northwest Greensboro, at the end of a very long residential driveway in an area where there are a lot of trees. And, where there are trees, there will be leaves. The ground is full of them right now. The first round of leaf collection by the city began November 9th, with leaves to be picked up by December 23rd. If you missed having your leaves ready by November 9th, the second round runs from December 29th to January 29. However, best of all, you can mulch or compost your own leaves and find a way to leave them right where they are- even if you blow them into the beds around your house. Happy Monday. We hope you enjoy this view from the ground!

Letting Go of Fall

The red leaves seem to be the last ones to get their full color in the fall. The above maple in northwest Greensboro was holding on to a few red leaves until the recent rains. Quickly fall is changing to brown and we will depend on the sky on sunny days to add some color. Greensboro is so lucky to have four distinct seasons and fall is so special. The coolness of the air, colors in the foliage, and the scent of backyard wood fires are a delight to the senses. 

The weather is scheduled to drop to the 20s tonight. You still have time to bring your plants in. It is beginning to feel a lot like winter in Greensboro. We need to remember that each season has its beauty, and each season has its purpose. May we all be ready for winter, but enjoy the last little bit of fall that is left. Happy Tuesday.

Good Samaritan's Mitzvah

Sunday's, on GDP, we post something spiritual, religious, or heartwarming; often a church. Today, we post the good samaritan's mitzvah. What could be more spiritual than to take the time to do a good deed for someone? The above photo was taken on the Atlantic & Yadkin Greenway Trail near Strawberry Road, just north of Bur-Mil Park. Somebody lost their car and office cabinet keys on the greenway. An unidentified person took the time to craft a tripod out of a stick and balance the keys on top- in plain view. Hopefully, when the person realizes they lost their keys, they will retrace their steps and find them waiting.

If you know of someone who lost their keys yesterday, as of about 4pm Saturday, the keys were waiting for them. This gesture speaks volumes about the character of the people of Greensboro. Taking time to do something for someone else, is second nature around here. ! If the weather is nice, you might want to get out and enjoy the greenway. It is a special feeling to be out there with nature and seeing others enjoying themselves. Happy Sunday

Guilford Quakers

Guilford College was founded by Quakers on 349-wooded acres in 1837. The college is located at the corner of West Friendly Avenue and Guilford College Road. It is one of 15 Quaker colleges, universities and study centers in the world (see list here) and the only one in the southern region of the United States.

Guilford College has always been known for its strong liberal arts education and the core values of community, diversity, equity, excellence, integrity, justice, and stewardship. At least in the pre-COVID era, one could stroll along campus and learn about the school's role in the Underground Railroad and other activities centered around the Civil Rights Movement. You could see a greenhouse, young farmers, and sustainable agriculture practices. 

Financial hard times are causing the administration to cut costs and eliminate positions and academic programs. Nineteen of its 42 academic majors are recommended to be eliminated (reference). If you are in the financial position to do some good in the world, here are some ways to give to Guilford College. This institution, with an 183-year history of academic greatness in Greensboro, deserves not only to be around for its bicentennial, but to be thriving in 2037. Let us know if you are able to donate. While Greensboro Daily Photo doesn't generate revenue, we would love to know we played a part in keeping the Guilford Quakers in Greensboro! Happy Tuesday.

Moonrise Over Horse Pen Creek

Happy Halloween pre-eve! Today's photo features the almost-full moon that rose last night over Horse Pen Creek Road. It rose at 6:16 pm at 80º east. In Greensboro tonight, it will rise at the same time tonight and in the same location in the sky. While the North Carolina Department of Health strongly recommends people not participate in door-to-door trick-or -treating, it hasn't been cancelled. Many people are devising creative ways to make it safe: putting candy in baggies; shooting candy down PVC tubes; wearing masks and handing out candy wearing rubber gloves.  If you elect to go out with children, please be safe and honor social distance.

If you are not participating in Halloween, please try to get out and see the full moon. If it is as pretty as last nights 99% full moon, it will be a sight to behold. Plus, it is a blue moon, meaning that it is the second full moon of the month. Today should prove to be a glorious day in Greensboro! Happy Saturday.

Barns of Summerfield

This barn is very near where Pleasant Ridge Road intersects with Meadowview Drive. It represents Greensboro and its environs from years gone by. At one time, the county was full of barns for animals, tobacco barns, and other outbuildings that were necessary to keep a farm thriving. Slowly, the parcels of land  with these buildings are being sold off for subdivisions. However, another movement is taking hold in recent years in which young people buy land to farm.

The above barn may actually be part of Summerfield Farms which is a working, thriving, 600 acre farm with the main building just across the road from this barn. The above barn is a lot more humble than "THE" barn at Summerfield farms; however, the above structure holds quite a link to the past. If you want to read more about Summerfield Farms, read their story, HERE. If we happen to see the owner of Summerfield Farms, David Couch, we'll ask him about his building. In the meantime, we hope you will notice it, next time you drive by. Happy Wednesday!

Fall Lewiston

Fall is such an absolutely glorious time in Greensboro, North Carolina. The above photo was taken on Lewiston Road as the sun was low to the horizon. The grasses in the field are partly glowing and partly shaded. The cloudless sky is sporting a waxing gibbous moon and waiting for the full moon in five days, on Halloween. The purple Martin gourd houses are noticeably the whitest feature of the photo. The little abandoned building hiding to the right of the birdhouse post is a weathered gray that almost looks white. 

While the Purple Martins have already headed south for the winter, it would be a perfect time to install a gourd system for them as they return as early as February and sometimes the ground is still frozen. They do like to be around a water source and are one of nature's best bug busters. If you want to learn more about Purple Martin Time in the Carolinas, here is a wonderful place to start. You will even learn about their mass migrations. While you won't see Purple Martins, today should be a sunny day; perfect for taking a little time to go outside and explore nature. 

Fall Fun at Lake Brandt

Lake Brandt is one of three Greensboro Lakes. It is named for Leon Brandt who was mayor of Greensboro at the beginning of the 20th century. At  816-acres, it is the second largest of our municipal reservoirs. It was built in 1925, making it Greensboro's oldest lake.*. If you go there on the weekends, you will see it in full use. Also, the trails around it are lovely this time of year. It is also a lovely place to go bird watching, especially if you can beat the boaters.

Today's photo was taken on Saturday when the weather was absolutely beautiful, the quintessential, fall day.

 

*reference and more information at the Greensboro Parks and Rec site, here.

It's Pumpkin Patch Time at Guilford College UMC

Yesterday, the Pumpkin Patch at the Guilford College United Methodist Church attracted people all day long. The weather was lovely and the selection was plentiful. The Pumpkin Patch is a fundraiser for the youth groups at the church. It was nice to see teens helping at the event and gaining an appreciation for how much work goes into raising money for their group. 

At the Guilford College UMC, the selection is plentiful. The tiny white pumpkins were running out as we were there yesterday, as were the ones with "character"' in other words, the non-traditional pumpkins. However, the traditional orange variety were plentiful- in all sizes. Almost every family with small children took lots of photos. Some families even dressed up so that baby's first, fall pumpkin patch photos would be just perfect.  To be sure, many memories are being made in this pumpkin patch and the youth group is making money. The church is located at the corner of Fleming and Guilford College Road. They are open Monday - Saturday from 10am-7pm and on Sundays from 1-7pm. Stop by if you want to get in the spirit of  the season. Happy Sunday!

A Fall Walk Along Walker Avenue

The above photo was taken on Walker Avenue, in the 1800 block, just west of UNCG. Walker Avenue is a very walkable street that passes through Lindley Park and continues all the way to West Market Street out past Holden Road. Today's  scene exemplifies all of the flowers and planting you see on this well-cared-for street.

From this low angle, the fall flowers are front and center. There are also a lot of "sidewalk gardens" in this part of Greensboro. The homes up on the hill in the background date to 1925.  While in recent years these homes have mainly served as rentals for college students. The homes are in very good condition and any parent would be happy to know their children lived here. Have a great weekend and please get out and enjoy these fall scenes!

Warm Fall Day on Lake Higgins

The above photo was taken at Lake Higgins yesterday. The water was a brilliant blue and the reflections were fabulous. The leaves have been colorful in other years; however, the view is still pretty fabulous. The three Greensboro lakes have nice trails and they are very walkable. For this photo, we were at the juncture on Carlson Dairy Road at the bridge and between two legs of the Bald Eagle Trail. In spite of being such a lovely day, Lake Higgins was very empty. October is a perfect month to take advantage of the nice weather for outdoor sports. It is also a perfect time of the year for taking photos. Here's to an afternoon at the lake!

This 226 acre lake has been an important municipal reservoir since it was constructed in 1956.  If you're heading to Lake Higgins, the marina and launch are located at 4235 Hamburg Mill Road. If you have any questions about use of the lake, their phone number is 336-373-3739. 

Glorious Fall Foliage

This weekend in Greensboro, the weather was crisp and glorious. The sun was shining and the air had that brisk bite, letting us know that it won't be long before we get our first frost. Yes, it is time to bring houseplants back in when temperatures are dropping to the 40s at night. The above photo features a few leaves from vines and deciduous trees common to Greensboro. They were seen on a basketball goal that had fallen. The leaves at the top are from a sweet gum tree and the ones to the right are from the Virginia creeper vine.

If you are playing the autumn leaf identification game with a friend or loved one, here is a fun poster we found on etsy (not for sale by us or anyone we know). Here is a fun visual from NC State University. Be sure to click through on the top from home to identify to list. It focus on the products of the trees. Regardless, please take advantage of some fall foliage admiring and leaf hunting here in Greensboro. On the bright side, once the deciduous trees lose their leaves, we'll have the evergreens! Happy Monday, it is supposed to be a little warmer today!

Glorious Fall; Beautiful Foliage

Before you know it, fall foliage will be at its peak in North Carolina, especially in the mountains. The above photo was taken from a parking deck on the corner of Walker Avenue and Kennilworth. The leaves are slipping from green to orange and yellow. When the sun is shining, they look glorious. If you have a chance this weekend, go for a drive and look at how beautiful Greensboro looks this time of the year. With our local fall festivals being cancelled this year, you will have to find a way to make your own good, fall fun.

The other day, we saw a man in his late 90s out walking along his street picking persimmons to eat. He said it had been over 30 years since he'd eaten persimmon pudding, but he so enjoyed eating the fruit. We may get a little rain today, but every change in weather in the fall brings with it many traditions. If it is cold and rainy, it will just be an excuse to get out the sweaters, blankets, and hot chocolate. In the mistime, we think we'll pull up a chair and look out this open window at one of the best views in town! Enjoy your Saturday!

Ponies and Horses

Seeing a field on ponies or horses on a fall afternoon is a glorious sight to behold! These beautiful animals are a vital part of Guilford County's economy and culture. The above ponies were seen in northwest Guilford County, home to many of the equestrian farms in the area. Within a few miles in the northwest end of the county, you can find fields of horses, ponies, and miniature horses. There are also places to board and ride. According Horse Properties*, the total number of horses in North Carolina is about 256,000, number eight in the USA with respect to horses. Pony ownership is not as accessible.

If you are a horse or pony person, you probably already know of the websites for searching available equestrian properties for sale "Equestrian Properties for Sale in Guilford County and * Horse Properties."  Also, there are plenty of horses for sale and the prices range from a few thousand to $10,000- &12,000, see here.  If you are out, beyond the city limits of Greensboro, keep your eye out. You will have so many opportunities to see these beautiful creatures. Please be mindful not to touch or feed them. They can have very delicate digestive systems and it is important for the owners to know what they have ingested. However, great admiration and respect from the road is encouraged.

American Toad

The above toad was found in our Greensboro garden. He is nice and fat and was actually hanging out with a frog. Unfortunately, they hopped apart, or we could have had our own little "Frog and Toad" Arnold Lobel story. This toad is fat and was enjoying living in with the squash plants. Once the plants were pulled up to plant the cold weather crops, the reptiles hopped over to the bean vines. This looks like it might be a common American toad and Greensboro is well within its range. It could also be a Fowler toad. It is also common in Greensboro.

Toads like leaf matter and burrow to hide from predators. It is so good for the earth to leave leaves on the ground. If at all possible, consider expanding the natural area of your yard and decreasing the manicured lawn. Before you know it, you'll have critters like this handsome toad to hop around and chirp happy sounds. Here is a list of toads ( with photos) you are likely to see in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. Regardless of what it is, this toad is so cute!  Happy Tuesday. 

 

Golden Hour on Bunch Road

Last weekend, the golden hour of late afternoon was all aglow on Bunch Road between Oak Ridge and Summerfield. Bunch Road and that part of the county  are popular with bicyclists and motorcyclists alike-  especially on their weekend journeys. It was so beautiful, we had to stop and admire the view of this home, hidden high on a hill, with the low sun shining through the trees. Soon, that green and golden glow will be changing to orange, and then brown, as the fall season continues to take hold. 

Last night's moon probably looked spectacular from the above view. Animals and insects were chattering and buzzing. Even they were celebrating the light of the harvest moon. From Pleasant Ridge Road to Oak Ridge Road, the entire length of Bunch Road is about 8 miles. That is a good start to a bike ride if you are looking for some weekend fun. You can also head downtown to celebrate First Friday, now that we're entering Phase 3 of COVID caution. Whether near people downtown, or alone on a country road, or somewhere in between, be safe and celebrate yourself and your community! Happy Friday!

Sunset On Lake Higgins

The above photo was taken at the bridge on Carlson Dairy at Lake Higgins. The sunset was so beautiful and the water was still; a perfect combination. Greensboro's three lakes have gotten popular during the pandemic. People are using the lakes for water sports and using the hiking trails surrounding the lakes. HERE is a list of Greensboro's hiking trails, brought to us by the city of Greensboro. The Bald Eagle Trail along Lake Higgins is 4.1 miles and the Bald Eagle Loop is 1.2 miles. For part of this trail, the lake is visible. Someone even put chairs down by water's edge and many people take their hiking breaks at these chairs.

Lake Higgins is a 226-acre municipal reservoir, the smallest of our 3 lakes. It si so small they have stopped allowing boats with motors on this lake because invasive aquatic plants were chocking out native plants.*  So far, this situation is not an issue on Lake Townsend and Lake Brandt and motorized boats are still allowed. On an non-related note, recently, we used the above photo as a backdrop for Zoom meetings. People as far away as Santiago, Chile can say they've seen a sunset on Lake Higgins.

* read more, here.

Summer Gardens Winding Down... Cool Weather Gardens Winding Up!

These watermelons, grown in northwest Greensboro, remind us that summer gardens are quickly winding down. Soon, it will be time to pull up summer plants and plant winter, cool-weather crops like greens, broccoli, beets, Brussel sprouts, and cabbage. If you haven't tried gardening before, the fall crops would be a great place to start. If your summer garden didn't turn out as expected, the the cool weather vegetables give you a second chance. Here are some great pointers from the NC Cooperative Extension and here is their absolute beginner's guide.  Summerfield Gardens has an organic garden and they pick by hand. Soon, they will have gourds galore for you to pick from for your fall decorating. Some of those gourds actually look like the above watermelons. Actually, now that we think about it, watermelon are a member the cucurbitaceae plant family of gourds! Happy Tuesday! Happy harvesting! 

 

Tobacco Harvesting Time in North Carolina

The above photo features a field of tobacco in the westernmost part of Guilford County. It is time to harvest tobacco; and, harvesting can be brutal when the weather is hot.The bottom leaves are harvested first and, when done by hand, is backbreaking work.  Since the Civil War, tobacco has been a big crop for North Carolina. However, after World War II, interest in agriculture in general has declined in the state. And with education about the harmful nature of smoking tobacco, use has decreased.

Greensboro has an interesting history with tobacco. A tobacco factory opened in 1881 and local production peaked here in 1890. Tobacco production had its ups and downs in the 20th century. In 1954, Guilford County was 4th in the state in tobacco production.  In the late 1970s, Greensboro had two tobacco warehouses, but both were closed by 1984. By 1990, there were only 644 tobacco farmers in Guilford County and local production fell to 25th in the state. Ed Williams' 1990 article in the "News and Record", updated in 2015, is one of our references for today's post, and is a really good place to start if you want to learn more about Greensboro's relationship with the tobacco industry. Read here.

It is fun to drive around and see if you can find a tobacco field and and old tobacco barn. If you know someone in the industry, it is really interesting to see the sticks hanging in the barn before and after the tobacco is cured. Seeing a field like the one above sure takes a person back to the old-time ways, back when tobacco barns, mules, and tobacco plants were seemingly everywhere.   

Here is a document prepared by NC State and suggested for use by school teachers.

Beautiful Landscapes of Greensboro

The above photo of the entrance to the Farm Course of the Greensboro Country Club is a fine example of the beautiful landscaping of Greensboro. You also see an example of the beautiful stonework found around Greensboro. Manicured lawns are labor intensive. It is nice to see GCC maintaining the farm course so beautifully. There are so many golf courses in Greensboro and many are accessible to the public. Golf is such a great way to spend time out of doors and with friends. Seeing views like the one above are very welcoming.

If you look across the street, at the house in the background, the crepe myrtles are still blooming gloriously. Yesterday's weather was in the 70's so, even though we are in the heart of summer, there are little hints of autumn in Greensboro these days.

Happy Wednesday! 

Orb Weaver Spiders are Back!

Have you seen a garden orb spider yet? They seem to signal that fall is coming. Spiders seem more prevalent in fall. First, the ones born in spring have had all summer to grow. Second, many are out looking for mates. The black & yellow argiope, featured today, has built a web in northwest Greensboro, a spot that is very popular with orb spiders every year. If you look to the left of the spider, you see a bug that has been trapped in the web. There is also a captured prey in the center.

We returned to the above web after dark and there are no signs of anything in the web. Orb spiders tend to build vertical webs and eat them daily, for food energy and to keep the web clean. The longer a web remains, the less sticky it becomes; incentive to rebuild it daily. For self preservation from prey, spiders usually hide and wait for something to land in their cobweb. When they feel the vibration, they know that something has landed. The yellow and black spider is very common in Greensboro and in North Carolina. If you find one, observe it and see how long it remains in the same spot. They are non venomous but can bite if harassed. It will be best to observe from a distance.

Happy September 1st! See other photos from around the world in the City Daily Photo portal here.

Tree Hole Art

Today's photo was taken on Highway 150, just east of Highway 220, right across the street from The Vineyards neighborhood. We first saw this tree art when friend and GDP reader Katja Brown shared it with us. Greensboro and the communities around us are known for their mature trees. Some neighborhoods, like Sunset Hills, incorporate their huge trees into their Christmas light displays. 

The above tree is one that must have split, leaving a hole in the tree. The owner has taken wooden discs and attached them in an artistic fashion. A squirrel, bees, and ladybugs also help fill the space. If you notice, the edge has been framed out, too. There are examples of this kind of art on Pinterest; however, this is the first one we've seen in Greensboro- Summerfield, actually. As you can see from its leaves, the tree continues to live.

Here's to closing out this last day of August with a little art and creativity by a local resident. If you find out more about the person who created this work of art, or if you see another one, please let us know. Happy Monday and have a great week!

Mushrooms Galore

Tis the season of abundant mushrooms in Greensboro. With all of the rain lately, mushrooms of every shape and color have been pushing through lawns and forest floors, on logs, at the base of trees and in composting wood.

The above photo was taken along the Bald Eagle trail in northwest Greensboro. The trails have been rather slippery lately. If you are out walking, do be careful.  Please remember to leave the mushrooms undisturbed. The spores grow in the conditions that are perfect for them. One of our readers mentioned that the genetic composition of mushrooms is closer to that of humans than plants. If you have a friend who is a mycologist, they can fill you in on the interesting world of mushrooms.

 It is fun  to lower a cell phone or camera to the forest floor and capture mushroom memories in photos! Happy Thursday!

County Yards; Country Miles

Zinnias are still going strong in Guilford County! They are hearty plants, in the genus of plants with sunflowers and daisies. They are annuals, but once they start blooming, you can keep them blooming all summer. Butterflies like them and, as seen in the above photo, they add a bold pop of color to any yard. This yard is out in the county, northwest of Highway 220- aka north Battleground Avenue.

It is fun to see what people put around their mailboxes and it sure adds visual interest for pedestrians out trying to get a little exercise on these beautiful pre-fall days.  In Greensboro, it is really popular to have clematis plants twisting around arbors and mailboxes. However, having a tall variety of zinnias makes a striking statement, too. It may look like this plant is blocking the mailbox, but it is not. 

Amanita Caesar Mushroom

It is not usual for August to be the "rainy season" in Greensboro, but this August has been extremely wet. The average August rainfall in Greensboro is about 3.8 inches (U.S. Climate Data). It appears that Greensboro has already had close to 7" this month (see here), almost double. With rain comes mushrooms, and they are currently abundant. All of these mature trees and natural mulch in Greensboro are the perfect host for mushrooms. The above photo is an Amanita Caesar mushroom found near an oak tree. If you look closely, you can see an acorn and cap in the background.

These mushrooms are so beautiful and almost jump out at you when out walking. If you are spending a lot of time working or studying from home, please take time to get out and enjoy nature. With a little practice, it is pretty easy to identify mushrooms. However, never, never, eat mushrooms unless you are with an expert. It is really best to leave them alone and let nature take its course. The woodland animals seem to really love the Amanita Caesars.

Happy Tuesday, and happy second day of virtual/online/remote school, if you teach or have someone in your life who is a student in Guilford County. Have patience. Every day will get easier and better. Take a mushroom hunting break on your scheduled time for exercise.

Canada Geese Alive and Well in Greensboro

At least once a year, we like to post a photo of Canada geese; they command such a presence in Greensboro. The above photo features a gaggle of Canada geese. They live at Home Depot at Brassfield. There is almost always a puddle of water in the corner near the drain by the lawn and garden section. Even when it hasn't rained, the birds can usually find water there.

Two of the populations in the Piedmont area of North Carolina migrate back to Canada in the fall. One group stays here year round. The year round population is growing and the migratory groups are decreasing. Canada geese mate for life, and they don't usually mate in the first few years. In 2015, the population reacted almost 6 million in the United States. If you are interested in their habits and habitat, read more, here.  

Praying Mantis

At least once a summer, we like to post a photo of a praying mantis. This one is small; we're thinking it is a male. He has been seen several days behind the blueberry bushes, in the same spot when we water. We haven't seen him since the big rain at the end of last week. Did you know there is such a thing as a Carolina mantis? Read here, if you want to learn about them. We learned from when we posted a mantis photo back in 2010 that the word "mantis" is Greek for "prophet." Also, the praying mantis is a distant relative of the cockroach.

If you are out exploring or looking for that praying mantis, here is a list of the 980 bugs and other insects found in North Carolina. With a little effort, you are bound to find some of these creatures sooner or later. Perhaps you could consider keeping a list of all that you see over the next month. See here. If you do not live in Greensboro, or North Carolina, for that matter, you can search your state at the same site. If you have small children in your life, who knows, you just may have a budding entomologist on your hands!

Zebra Swallowtail Butterfly

Many people have been mentioning that the butterfly population seems to be down in Greensboro this year. Imagine our surprise when we were walking near Carlson Farms in northwest Greensboro and we saw this zebra swallowtail butterfly. They are distinctive for their longitudinal stripes and black and white coloring that make them resemble zebras. As you can see, this butterfly was extracting nectar from a butterfly bush (buddleja); however, the zebra swallowtail is really associated with paw-paw trees. Paw-paw trees grow well in Greensboro and have become popular here due to their edible fruit. Perhaps there was a paw-paw tree nearby.

If you love butterflies and are interested in creating an eco-system in your yard that is attractive to butterflies, you may want to consider joining the North American Butterfly Association (NABA), see here. If you want a local resource, you can contact All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm off of Highway 68 on Clinard Farms Road. At the moment, they are not open for visits due to COVID; however, you can contact them and see if they have release packages available. Another fun thing to do related to butterflies is to go here and track the travels of the monarch butterfly through North Carolina.  Happy Wednesday!

Edible Radish Pods and the Joys of Gardening

Summer has been heating up in Greensboro and we're experiencing temperatures in the 90s for consecutive days, with no rain in sight. Under these conditions, plants are trying to go to seed. Our basil, mint, and radishes are all flowering and trying to make seed pods. The above photo features radish seed pods. See the long pointy green pods and the purple flowers? Those are growing from the radishes that, underground, are long and lean and practically nonexistent. (Many are lamenting this hasn't been the best year for radishes).  Well, this summer for us, those pods have been nature's gift. We've discovered they are crunchy, spicy, and radish flavored. All radish pods are edible and some varieties arevgrown specifically for their pods.

For anyone who is looking for something to do in these lazy days of summer, don a mask and head to the farmers market and ask lots of questions. If you have a neighbor who is gardening, spend time with them learning about gardening. Perhaps there is a community garden in your neighborhood. North Carolina A&T University has several programs and initiatives related to sustainable agriculture. There is a little farmer in all of our family histories. Now is a good time to learn about these old-time ways. Happy Thursday! See you in the garden!