Greensboro Daily Photo

The Giant Puff Ball Mushroom

Our dog thinks this mushroom in our backyard is alive. In a way, it is. It looks like a brain, and there is such a thing as a brain mushroom. However, based on this photo, a student mycologist told us it looks like a a giant puff ball mushroom- a bit aged and expired. Giant puff ball mushrooms tend to appear late summer and early autumn. It is our understanding that fresh puff balls are edible; however, this looks a lot like a brain mushroom, which is not edible. Plus, this mushroom is definitely past prime. We think we'll leave it and see just how long it sticks around.

There is a resurgence of interest in growing and learning about mushrooms in North Carolina. NC State has a fabulous website about mushrooms if you are interested in learning about them or growing them (see HERE). Also, at the Greensboro Curb Market on Yanceyville Street, there are some fabulous mushrooms available for purchase- everything from blue oyster mushrooms and shiitake. The vendors at the farmers market are very generous with information. Fall is such a fabulous to prepare those earthy dishes, soups and stews with mushrooms and root vegetables.

Happy Friday!

North Carolina Rowing Center

The North Carolina Rowing Center offers rowing for all ages from middle school 7th graders to adults. They are located in Greensboro and the above photo was taken yesterday at Lake Higgins where they practice. Fall is time for distance rowing and at regattas, the distance if 5,000 meters, as opposed to 2,000 meters in the spring. Here we see Pearl helping with navigation as Scott, one of the coaches, is guiding the launch (the coaching boat) to shore. Rowers were in single, double and quad shells sculling (using oars on both sides). The focus of the North Carolina Rowing Center is to develop skills and technique, with the option to compete against other teams in regattas in the southeast.

As we enjoy this last week of summer, walking around Lake Higgins and seeing the lake being used by all of these athletes was so lovely. There is absolutely no time for "screen time" when rowing. Soon, these teammates will be lucky enough to watch the fall leaves change from the water and, with all of the deciduous treen around Lake Higgins, the view from the water will be glorious. You can already see a hint of color change; just wait until October!

Happy Thursday!

 

Got Okra?

We love growing okra in our backyard. It tolerates the heat of summer very well and keeps on giving well into fall. This photo was taken just this week and there is no sign of our okra stopping production of these wonderful pods. Of course, as we see the days get shorter and the temperatures dropping, it will be another story. Okra is in the mallow family, making it related to hibiscus. Usually, we grow green okra, but this year decided to grow red. A fun fact is that it reverts to green when cooked. Okra has long been a staple is Piedmont cooking. Lucky 32 and Blue Denim Restaurant are two Greensboro restaurants that often have okra on the menu. Sometimes it is available at the Coliseum Cafe. It can be eaten raw, boiled, steamed, and fried. It is a key ingredient in gumbo. How do you like your okra?

For a plant that grows so well in Greensboro, once established, and so full of nutrients, we encourage you to plan to plant some next spring.

Happy Wednesday!

Heart-healthy Greenway Fun

Saturday is a great time to explore the great outdoors in Greensboro. We have so many trails, around our lakes, and along the greenway. The above photo was taken between Bur-Mil Park and Summerfield. You can ride at. your own pace or even walk. Northbound is more uphill than heading from Summerfield back towards town. This, the Atlantic- Yadkin Greenway actually leads to Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. If you head out and ride the greenway in the morning, you will certainly be ready to eat at a food truck downtown and listen to some music at the NC Folk Festival.

Just look at this peaceful scene and imagine yourself here. Moving more is a big part of being fit for life. Have a happy Saturday, regardless of how you decide to spend it.

Keeping Greensboro Green

The other day, en route to photograph Irving Park Elementary School for its 100th Anniversary, we stopped upon seeing this brick wall at the corner Cornwallis Drive and Hamilton Road. It may be a little hard to tell, but the owners of this property actually had the bricklayers leave a space for the roots of this mature tree. What a "go green" practice!

Greensboro is known for its greenery, coming by its name honestly. It is up to each and every one of us to do our part to help keep Greensboro green. As our community continues to grow, we may need to get a bit stingy with our green acreage. In the meantime, all of us can be like the owners of the property above. It is possible for trees to co-exist with city lots. It does take a little planning.

We hope you have a happy mid-week. Also, if you know the owners of the above lot, thank them for us- or, direct them to this short post!

 

Deer in the Suburbs

Are you ever out walking in the morning and run into deer? We like to walk early in the morning and it is a rare day if we don't see deer before 7:00 am. There are lots os fawns now. They will have time to mature before winter sets in. North Carolina wildlife published a "North Carolina White-Tailed Deer Density" map in 2020.  According to this map, there are more than 50 per square mile in Guilford County. We have more deer per square mile than Rockingham County. They are pretty to look at, but they can do a lot of damage. They are constantly foraging and love almost anything green and leafy. It is illegal to take in a deer in the Triad and you are encouraged not to feed them because it keeps them from foraging or in some cases learning to forage. They are meant to survive in the wild and have moved into the suburbs as much of their habitat is being converted to housing and commercial properties. The above deer were seen in northwest Guilford County.

Happy Thursday! 

Va Opossum

With the extended hours of daylight in the summer and the full moon this week, wild animals have been busy. We took this photo earlier in the summer, but we see animals in our yard all the time. This Virginia opossum was out exploring and dashed into a the above hole when he saw us coming. Likely, a groundhog actually lives there. Opossums keep neighborhoods clear of cockroaches, ticks, and small rodents. They love eating ticks and help cut down on Lyme disease. They are even known to eat venomous snakes. Opossums are marsupials and carry their young in a pouch. Likely, those babies in your Greensboro yard were born earlier in the summer and are old enough to live on their own now. Please be kind to them. They won't bother you in any way. In an online search, we learned that the Virginia opossum has been in North Carolina since the Pleistocene Period- also known as the Ice Age and lasting from 2.58 million to 11,700 years ago. Wow!

Happy Thursday!

Farmers Market Flowers

Do you like cut flowers? The weekend is the perfect time to purchase flowers for the week. The above photo was taken at the farmers market at Sandy Ridge. Our local Greensboro farmers markets are quite the "go to" places for cut flowers. They are always so beautiful and and reasonably priced. Sometimes you get pre-packaged bouquets and often, you can design your own. The above couple look like they could be brother and sister. They worked very well together helping us find the perfect bouquet.

If you can't get to a farmers market, The Fresh Market also has a very nice selection of flowers. 

Happy August 1st. Today is theme day for the City Daily Photo community and August's theme is: Garden. While this isn't technically a garden, you know it takes gardens to make these beautiful flowers happen!

The Greensboro Summer Solstice Festival

Happy Summer Solstice Event! It will be held today in Lindley Park and the Greensboro Arboretum from 2:00- 10:00 pm. This festival is a fun way to spend an afternoon. The above photo was taken a few years ago and shows you the great length people go through to dress up and make the event fun. Not only performers, but everyone is encouraged to dress as fairies and sprites .

The solstice event was started in 2005. According to their website, "Mission: We aim to create an experience for our festival-goers that blends local artisans, performers and budding entrepreneurs with a little bit of magic and a lot of love, opening up imaginations to the possibilities in each of us." The event is so much fun and a chance to be playful and joyful, something that is proven to keep us healthy. It is also a fabulous opportunity to get great photos. The festival closes with a fire finale which is breathtaking in the dark. Children are absolutely mesmerized.

On another note, we have been members of the City Daily Photo community for the past 15 years. Cities all over the world post a photo a day of their city. The first of the month is theme day and the July theme is "climate". Our Summer Solstice photo fits perfectly with the theme. In Greensboro, the weather today is expected to be between 68º and 91º. So, if you are coming out to the festival, be prepared for a little bit of everything and find a way to protect yourself from the sun and to stay hydrated. We can't wait and don't care what the weather does. We're ready!

Happy Saturday!

Magnolia Blossom Time 2023

Greensboro is filled with the scent of magnolia blossoms. Oh how we wait patiently for the sweet essence of magnolia blossoms every year. With the cooler weather, they are blooming a little later at our house this year. In 2020, we featured one on May 22 and in 2019 on May 23. By October, they will be sporting the showy red seed pods. While the sweetbay magnolia- with its green deciduous foliage-  is native to Greensboro, many people have planted the southern magnolia here. The above is a southern magnolia blossom. We always bring one inside for the day, knowing full well that they will only last for a day.

In addition to hanging out under the magnolia tree today, we will also be attending the Juried Members' Exhibition at the Center for Visual Artists at 200 N. Davie Street in the Cultural Arts Center from 6-8 pm. At least two artists we've featured on Greensboro Daily Photo will have art featured there, Karen Bjork Dischell and mixed media artist, Joanne Rich, will feature their work there. If we understood correctly, someone from the group currently exhibiting will be selected for a solo show this year. Try to get by the show and support our local artists. Also, find a magnolia tree to enjoy.

Happy Friday!

 

The Parisian Promenade

Yesterday, Greensboro Beautiful presented the Parisian Promenade in the Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden on Hobbs Road. What a fabulous opportunity for families and friends to gather and stroll along the park seeing and being seen. The above scene is so Parisian, a street cart with buckets of flowers and a striped awning. The flower truck business is known as The Myrtle Cottage. The truck was located up by the Poodle Promenade Ring and flower sales were brisk. Prices were reasonable and people seemed to really enjoy buying flowers for themselves and their loved ones. The idea of being able to purchase flowers in a park or on a street corner is so quintessentially French. It is nice to see it in Greensboro and maybe  The Myrtle Cottage will make the opportunity more commonplace in Greensboro.

The weather yesterday was overcast, but it never did rain; making it perfect for the Parisian Promenade. The event is a project of the Greensboro Parks and Recreation and Greensboro Beautiful. Greensboro Beautiful is a 501 (c) 3 volunteer organization dedicated to enhancing the beauty and ecology of Greensboro. The Parisian Promenade in the Tanger Family Bicentennial Garden is a beautiful example of Greensboro at its best. The venue is beautiful, the vendors and activities were delightful for people of all ages. Ecology deals with the relations of organisms to one another. Seeing people out enjoying the flora of Greensboro was such a great way to kick off June. Summer will be here before you know it. Next year will be here before you know it. Mark your calendar for the first Sunday in June for the next Parisian Promenade.

Larger Than Life

 

Yesterday, we featured poppies in a garden for National Poppy Day. Today, we give you a close up (macro) view of one of the poppies in the photo. The day we took the photo last week was overcast and windy in Greensboro, and several of the photos were blurry. We finally got a photo that shows you the intricacies of the inside of a poppy. Macro photography is about showcasing things larger than they actually are in real life. See HERE if you want to learn about the anatomy of a poppy.

Not only is this view "larger than life", but so is the backstory. Remember that through our friend, the current owner of the house and this garden, Kit Rodenbough, we learned that another friend, Julie Dameron formerly owned this house and is actually the one who planted this garden. This gives Kit the very important role of being the keeper of the garden. Well, to continue this great story, we learned that yesterday's post prompted a visit between Kit and Julie. Julie got to go see her garden again and left the visit so thrilled, hearing how much Kit loves the house AND the garden. The only thing that would have made this close up slice of life better would have been getting a photo of the two women together. Maybe that can be arranged at a later date. Also, just since yesterday,  we've had a few friends in Greensboro alerting us of their poppies we can photograph for next year!

If you have a cell phone, use the camera to take a macro photo of something. Seeing something up close, as opposed to from a distance, yields very interesting results. Share your macro photo with friends! Tell them you were inspired by Greensboro Daily Photo! With six degrees of separation, we're betting word will get back to us.

Happy Saturday!

National Poppy Day 2023

Today is National Poppy Day. In the United States, the red poppy  has been nationally recognized as a symbol honoring those who served and died for our country in war. On Sept. 27, 1920, the poppy became the official flower of the American Legion; in 1924, poppy distribution became their national program. In Greensboro, there are two American Legion posts. One is located at 1206 American Legion Street in northeast Greensboro. Post 53 is located at 529 Ridge Creek, near I-40 and Highway 220 in the southern part of the city. Perhaps the local American Legion, or the VFW will be selling poppies today.

In preparation for National Poppy Day, we looked for poppies to photograph in Greensboro. We had already photographed the beautiful field of poppies across from Lindley Elementary School, so were on the hunt for another source. Our friend, local businesswoman Kit Rodenbough, mentioned how much she is enjoying her poppies this year. We asked to photograph the poppies in her garden. Kit lives in the neighborhood between Irving Park and Kick Back Jack's and has a lovely backyard garden. When we arrived, she mentioned she had recently purchased the house from Julie Dameron, a retired nurse who recently moved to Friends Home West. We not only recognized the garden Julie planted, but also the garage room where Julie had her art studio. She is an accomplished painter, often taking inspiration from her garden. Also, she always kept bouquets of fresh flowers from this very garden. Julie left behind not only her poppies, but also a lovely rose garden. However, Julie is cultivating a rose garden at Friends Home West. Today, she can now see that the lovely poppies at her previous home are bringing joy to Kit. Such is the nature of gardening; an initial investment of time and effort yields benefits that can last for generations. If you see Kit or Julie, compliment them on their poppies.

Today, when people are wearing a red poppy on their lapel,  you will know the story. Ask them if their poppy is from the garden of Kit and Julie, the garden across from Lindley Elementary School, or from a garden we need to know about so we can photograph it for next year! If someone approaches you to purchase a poppy for your lapel,  you will know the backstory.

Finally, we have a dear friend and reader who requested we share the poem "In Flanders Fields" by John McCrae. This is the poem that inspired the use of the poppy as a symbol of remembrance. Our friend remembers having to memorize the poem in 6th grade.

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

    That mark our place; and in the sky

    The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

 

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

    Loved and were loved, and now we lie,

        In Flanders fields.

 

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

    The torch; be yours to hold it high.

    If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

        In Flanders fields.

Amphibians: Frog

Today's photo is a green tree frog. He perched on the door and spent the whole evening getting a meal. Here is a really nice website about frogs and toads of North Carolina. It helps in identifying local frogs and toads. What kind do you think this one was? It was found on a window in northeast Greensboro. Part of the secret to having your yard serve as a habitat for frogs and toads is that you need a water source and a natural part of the yard.

Another thing we've been seeing this week is lightning bugs. They thrive in summer heat and like a higher , unmanicured lawns. So far, we've only seen asynchronous fireflies in Greensboro. However, in the mountains of North Carolina, there are synchronous fireflies. The call went out for people to win an opportunity to go see them (see HERE). We didn't enter the lottery, so we didn't have a chance to win. In the meantime, we'll keep documenting the food and toads. Have you ever seen the synchronous fireflies in the North Carolina mountains?

Happy Thursday!

Hibernation is Over: It's Turtle Time!

This, turtle was in our yard the other day. With the hours of daylight increasing and the temperatures rising, they are ready to come out of hibernation and mate. We're guessing this 10" turtle was a male; the way he was scooting along with determination, he was probably in search of a mate. He looks like an older turtle, the way the rings on his back are growing together. Remember to only touch turtles if they need to be scooted out of the road and to keep them oriented to the direction they were headed. Do be mindful they can bite. Here is a starter page for identifying turtles in North Carolina. At first we thought this was an Eastern box turtle, but it seems a little flat and larger than most box turtles. Do you know? If so, please let us know.

Spring is an exciting time for wildlife aficionados. It is also time you will see snakes. There is a Facebook group NC Snake Identification & Education. You can have someone identify the type of snake you see with a photo and the name of the area it was found. Many people comment that they are not as afraid of snakes as a result of belonging to this page. If there are little ones in your life, it is fun to keep a wildlife journal, documenting what you see throughout the spring and summer. The more you walk in wooded areas, the more you will see. The more natural areas you have in your yard, the more you will see. If you really want to animal watch in Greensboro and in North Carolina, here is a good place to start learning.

Urban Walking and Observing Nature

Urban walking can yield interesting results. The above photo was taken in Peabody Park on the campus of University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Do you have any idea what it is? Well, we didn't either until we went and read the sign on the upper left side of the structure. From that sign, we learned that it is an insect trap and is part of a project in the biology department. Near the sign, there is a bottle of water with several mosquitos in it. The design appears to be working. Just beyond this net trap, in a field of native grasses, are a couple of bluebird boxes and a marshy wetland. These ecosystems are ripe for hands-on research projects and have been used by university and pre-collegiate classrooms alike.

This use of the Peabody Park is aligned with its original use when constructed in 1901. Then President Charles Duncan, established the park as a place for recreation and hands-on learning.* UNCG has changed so much since its early days as the State Normal and Industrial School. Peabody Park is smaller, there is no longer a lake, but here is still a creek meanders through,there is a small part of a golf course, and a nice path to take and interact with nature.

Happy Tuesday!

 

* reference and additional information.

Dogwood Time in Greensboro!

Greensboro's landscapes are enriched by its understory of pink and white dogwoods; and below the dogwoods, the pink and white azaleas. Dogwoods like soil that drains well, shade, and temperatures under 95º.  in 1955, the Greensboro Council of Garden Clubs held a dogwood planting program. Approximately 11,000 dogwoods were planted locally, in an effort to help the city become known as "The Dogwood City."* The average lifespan of a dogwood tree is about 80 years. Many of those dogwoods from "Operation Dogwood" are starting to age out. Plus, as the tree canopy gets cut down, the dogwoods struggle. In 2004, there was again an effort to implement a planning program and every 5th grader in Greensboro received a dogwood seedling to plant. This Arbor Day initiative came with a week-long curriculum for teachers to use in the classroom, in an effort to inspire students to plant their seedlings- and to give them the skills to know how to plant their little dogwoods. Part of this curriculum taught students the benefits of trees and the importance of keeping our shade trees.

Operation Dogwood was such an inspiring program. Let's all consider planting a dogwood for Arbor Day 2023. It is Friday, April 28th. Remember, pink dogwoods are cultivars of white dogwoods and almost always need to started from cuttings of pink trees. Most seeds of pink dogwoods yield white trees. It would be so nice for someone to read this post and take on this initiative; maybe even a student looking for a service learning project.

Here are some organizations that helped with previous "dogwood" initiatives: N.C. Division of Forest Resources, Department of Environment and Natural Resources; the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, Southern Region; N.C. Cooperative Extension Service in Guilford County; Greensboro's Urban Forestry Program; Greensboro's Parks and Recreation Department; Greensboro Beautiful; Guilford County Master Gardeners; Council of Garden Clubs; Davey Tree Service; and many of the local retirement communities. It is always worth asking to see if anyone is interested in helping fund another round of planting dogwoods. It has already been 19 years since the 2004 effort. Come on, Greensboro, we've got this! Do you have a dogwood in your yard? Is it from one from the 1955 or 2004 initiative?

Happy Monday! 

 

* reference and more information in this News and Record article by Karen Neill in 2004. We really miss those articles by her! 

Lady Banks Roses in Full Bloom!

Lady Banks roses are a nearly thornless rose, producing either white or yellow blooms. A native to China, the Lady Banks first arrived in the west in the early 1800s. They are a climbing rose, growing like a vine. As you can see above, the flowers grow in clusters. The Lady Banks roses in the above photo were a gift from Jane Armfield to Jane Mitchell's mother. Jane, a Sunset Hills resident, says they were planted between 40- 50 years ago. While they are more readily available now, there was a time when these roses were hard to get. People said you had to practically inherit one- or get a cutting. Thirteen years ago, someone did ask for a cutting of this one. We would love to see that plant today. These roses are at peak bloom now, their one time for the year,  and their bloom time will depend on the weather over the next week. 

Are there any Lady Banks roses in your neighborhood? We'd love to hear about it. It would be nice to have one. We try to feature these roses every year. The last time we did was 2021, on April 9th. Perhaps they are a little early this year.

Happy Tuesday!

Beautiful Weather on Lake Higgins

One good thing resulting from Saturday's strong winds in Greensboro was the calm, crisp day yesterday. The above photo was taken at Lake Higgins, Sunday afternoon. As you can see, the water was calm. People were out canoeing. The sky and the water were an intense blue and the air quality rating was in the green (good). Now is such a good time to hike along the our lakes; visibility is high since leaves have not come out yet. Also, ferns are starting to unfurl. There is so much to see on the city trails. Today is expected to be in the low 70, also reasonable for hiking. If you do head to the lakes today, while the trails are open, Lake Higgins is closed. You can't go out on the water or fish until tomorrow.

The moon will be full on Thursday. Since Easter is the first Sunday after the full moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox,* Easter is this Sunday. This is a great week to reflect on rebirth, in nature as well as spiritually. Spring is such a lovely time of year in Greensboro; many say it is the prettiest. Now would be the perfect time to go for nature walks, or walks around one of our neighborhoods, to document all of the signs of rebirth that are happening before our eyes. Whatever you decide to do this week, we hope you have a great one!

Happy Monday!

* reference and more information, HERE.

Full Moon 0n Westover Terrace

Evenings have been so lovely in Greensboro this week. The above photo was taken when we were in "West End" getting food at Wylie's Gourmet- from their parking lot. As we sat in the car, looking east, we noticed just how lovely the lighting at twilight was. While the moon was full, it doesn't show up very will in the photo. Regardless, it helps illuminate the sky. The cement curb, framing the parking lot, adds contrast and yet another line in the photograph.

Spring has definitely sprung in Greensboro. As you can in the trees on the left, deciduous trees have begun to regain their leaves. While telephone poles detect from photos, sometimes, if you build them into the photo, they can actually enhance a view. They sure did help draw in the eye and focal point in the above photo.

Happy Thursday!

Crabapples, Crocus, and Hellebores

Have you noticed that things are starting to boom in Greensboro? The above tree (crabapple, we think) is in the parking lot behind the Weatherspoon Art Museum. It is visible from Tate Street. Seeing these blooms reminds us that we haven't seen snow in a while. According to this website, the last time we had snow in Greensboro was 1.8 inches on January 29th 2022, over a year ago! February and March can bring inclement weather in Greensboro. As a matter of fact, last March 13th, the temperature dipped to 19º.  We've got crocus flowers and hellebores going strong in our yard. The camellias are about finished. It is alway fun to see what blooms in winter and is an encouraging sign that spring is just around the corner.

The weather this weekend isn't supposed to dip below 33º,  so, it should be a good weekend to head out and explore the city. Maybe we can get to the new piece of artwork on the downtown greenway at Murrow Boulevard and East Gate City. What will you do?

Happy Friday!

Winter Trees

Today's photo comes from our adventure exploring the eastern end of the county; the place where you are on a country road exploring and not sure if you are in Whitsett, Gibsonville, or even across the Alamance County line into Elon. The outbuilding above is one of about nine on a property at the corner of Frieden Church Road and Sweeetgum Road. Every one of the outbuildings is old, but has signs of being loved. Above, you see a cross and an American flag. In one, there are life-size pigs, maybe made of plaster or plastic. Beside another, there is a vintage truck. The two bedroom one bath house, built in 1930, is on 9.3 acres of property. This family has a little slice of paradise. As land gets sold off around them, we hope they hold on and keep all of their mature trees. One of our regular, long-time readers commented how much she likes trees in winter. We do, too!  These trees, in their dormant state and towering over the outbuilding with the hand-hewn logs, are breathtaking. The winter, low to the horizon sun, adds so much to the shading of the trees.

Happy Tuesday! Are you ready for February tomorrow?

 

Highway 61 in Eastern Guilford County

On our jaunt through through east Greensboro and eastern Guilford County last weekend, we spent some time on Highway 61. The above photo was taken on the section between Burlington Road (east Wenedover, Highway 70) and I 40. The photo was taken in front of a road with a few houses on it. The lots were large and the construction appeared to be new. Due to recent rains, this area looked like it had recently filled with water. With the sun low to the horizon and the shadows long, the scenery was beautiful. It reminded us of a bald cypress swamp. We were struck by how clean the water was. The bed of leaves added texture to the edge of the water. 

If you are ever looking for a Sunday drive, Highway 61 extends from Highway 150 up near Browns Summit, through Whitsett, down below I-40 to Highway 62. There are homes all along the way and the road has gotten busier over the last decade. It is the main north-south highway in eastern Guilford County. It is considered a farm to market highway, historically connecting farmers to nearby markets. It was established in 1930. The internet can be such a wonderful thing. There is a Wikipedia entry for Highway 61. It is short, but it provides provenance for the road (see HERE). It would be special if people who lived along the road and who knew the history of the area would add to the entry. 

Happy Friday, explore day! Where should we go next?

Big White Farmhouse on Johnson Farm Trail

The above photo features an old farmhouse off of Burlington Road, Highway 70, east of Greensboro, right at the Guilford County line. This home is so charming and reminds us of that country way of living,  so common in the mid part of the 20th century and before. The white, wooden house was probably added on to as the owner's family grew- or became more prosperous. Likely, the owners were very tied to the land and loved everything that came from rural living. Possibly, the home has been passed down through the generations. We could sit here and conjecture all day; in the meantime, we'll just admire the view.

Every month or two, we drive the back roads from Greensboro to Burlington (Wendover, Highway 70) to the east, or Greensboro to Kernersville to the west (Highway 150). As we drive, we notice something has changed, stopping to photograph whatever catches our eye.  Noticeably, Guilford County is becoming quite a place for storage, warehouses, and trucks.  Looking back, sometimes we have documented things that used to be.  For now, it doesn't look like the big, white farmhouse isn't going anywhere anytime soon. On a bright, sunny day, those bare trees look so beautiful and make the house look like a home. The trees all look healthy, ready to leaf out in a couple of months. 

Happy Wednesday! Please stop and admire the beauty of Greensboro, every chance you get. 

Biscuitville, North Battleground Location

Biscuitville on North Battleground has been open since June 2021. It opened on the site where there was formerly a Pizza Hut. In the parking lot, the building really stands out on a sunny day with dramatic clouds as a background. This family-owned business was founded in Burlington, North Carolina in 1966. Maurice Jennings started with his family's recipe and one store in Danville, VA. Now there are 65 stores and the business keeps expanding. From time they launch new sandwiches (like a fried bologna biscuit). The latest product is a skinny biscuit that is thinner for those who like the taste but don't want the biscuit to overpower the sandwich. They make their biscuits from scratch and with local ingredients. Founder, Mr. Jennings actually got his start as a flour broker, then selling pizza, but focused on biscuits as a way to be busier in the mornings.* The corporate office is on Yanceyville Street in Greensboro. Greensboro central location in North Carolina and along the eastern part of the United States makes it a perfect location for businesses. 

We imagine having this location helps alleviate the congestion of the business on Battleground Avenue near the back entrance to Target. If you have a child in your life who has never seen a biscuit being made, it is fun to take them inside to the window where you see them being made. The people making biscuits have a way of always smiling when they make eye contact. Customer service contributes significantly to making a business successful.

Happy Thursday! (Are you craving a biscuit yet? We're heading out for a skinny!).

 

*reference and Biscuitville timeline.

First Hike of Year

The above photo was taken in Price Park, the part just below Kathleen Clay Edwards Family Branch Library, as you start up the hill, on the right. to the left is the Price Park Butterfly Garden. We'll make sure to explore that trail in spring and summer. This time of year, is so nice for hiking because visibility is really good since the trees are without leaves. The trail hovers below Jefferson Elementary School, along a fence line, and curves back behind the library. Along the way is a great horned owl box. The great horned owl is the largest owl in North Carolina. The females are 25- 30% larger than the males. The species has an average wingspan of 4.6 feet and they can be 18- 25 inches long. Also, along the way is a storage building insulated with clear plastic bottles. 

Exploring these public spaces of Greensboro is so fun. If the weather reports hold true, today and Saturday would be better days for hiking. Sunday, it could rain. The winter hours of Price Park are from 8:00 am- 5:00 pm. By 5:00 pm, it is getting dark in January.  Hope to see you on the trail.

Happy Friday!

A Beautiful Fog, Hovering Over Greensboro

Winter months are the months somewhat devoid of color. The other three seasons in Greensboro are so vibrant and showy, winter is noticeably gray and plain. The above photo was taken yesterday in northwest Greensboro when fog was still lingering. It was heavy, affected visibility, and persisted until the afternoon, when the sun finally came out. This week, temperatures will range from the 30s to the 60s here, so it won't be that cold.  Last year on this day, it was about 20 degrees colder in Greensboro.  The above photo is actually a color photo. If you look closely, you can see green grass in the foreground and the taller, yellow-brown grass. The scene is calm and serene with emphasis on the bare tree branches. We've concluded January in Greensboro is the visual version of palate-cleansing- a neutral break between intensely colorful times.

Fog is predicted for today, also.  Be careful out there, and do something to enjoy the mild air, if you can. 

Happy Tuesday!

Looking North, Between Ground and Air

The above photo is a view of the area just north of Greensboro. The road below is 220 north; to the left is Lake Higgins and to the right, Lake Brandt. The water in Lake Brandt is noticeably muddier than in Lake Higgins. There is a good view of the Lake Higgins Marina in the upper left corner, and Strawberry Road curves off to the right off of 220. On the horizon, you can see the Belews Creek Power Station, Duke Energy's largest coal-burning plant in the Carolinas. To the left of the columns of steam, you can see the Sauratown Mountains, including Pilot Mountain and Hanging Rock.

As we look towards the new year, let's remember to not only look at what is right in front of us, but also what is on the horizon.  Stokes and Surry counties can seem so far away from Guilford County; however, from the view of a plane, they seem so close. Maybe we'll get lucky the next time we are airborne and get a seat on the other side of the airplane with a good view of Greensboro proper. Happy Tuesday! We hope you had a good Hanukkah, Christmas, and that Kwanzaa is off to a great start for all who celebrate!

Kathleen Clay Edwards Library at Price Park and a "Talk with Tai"

Happy December! Yesterday, the last day of November, the afternoon sky was just lovely. This was the "golden hour" over the Kathleen Clay Edwards Family Branch  Library. It is located in Price Park and surrounded by mature trees and hilly nature trails. Last night, Greensboro City Manager Taiwo Jaiyeoba hosted one of his "Talk with Tai: City Manager Listening Sessions" at the Kathleen Clay Library from 6:00- 8:00 pm. Unfortunately, we weren't able to stay; those talks are such a wonderful opportunity stay abreast of issues and to provide input. Greensboro is lucky to have such an extensive library system and one that offers events that encourage community engagement. We hope you have an opportunity to use the local libraries. As for the "Talks with Tai" if you don't get a chance to attend one, you can watch one on YouTube. Access to information is only a click or a library visit away- or both!!

Happy Thursday! Happy December!

Happy Thanksgiving 2022

Happy Thanksgiving 2022! Above are some trees in northeast Greensboro, featuring an array of fall colors, against a backdrop of blue sky. Greensboro is full of deciduous trees and they are especially beautiful in October and November. These trees remind us that sometimes we need to look at things from a different perspective to see the real beauty. They are prettiest when looking up at the sky and not straight ahead.

In thinking about a truly Greensboro photo for Thanksgiving, we missed the Friendsgiving event at LeBauer Park last Sunday, but are determined to make it next year. We wanted to get a photo of our friend's turkeys in northwest Greensboro, off of Highway 150. We didn't get that photo either, but know we are always welcome at her farm. Sometimes just knowing events, opportunities, and friends are out there means as much as actually participating in the event. Holidays can be like that; we don't get exactly what we want, but find a way to make them memorable.  From a full course Thanksgiving feast with family and friends to eating leftovers alone, please celebrate yourself and Greensboro (or wherever you happen to live).

We are super thankful that you are one of our readers. We will work our hardest to keep you coming back and will work on getting a Thanksgiving photo more obviously anchored in Greensboro.

Happy Thanksgiving, from "the staff" at Greensboro Daily Photo.

Day of Rest and Thanksgiving

So sorry this published late, but thankfully, it is on the same day! ...  Sunday, according to Christian calendars, is the first day of the week, and deemed a day of rest. The above photo shows a restful scene, recently, on Lake Higgins, as the sun was setting in the direction of Lewiston Road. It is as if the lake was honoring the day of rest. In Greensboro, the lows today and this week will be in the 20s, with the highs in the low 50s. Considering it is late November, we can't complain. On Thursday, the weather should be overcast, but not rain; a good day for Thanksgiving and travel. For Thanksgiving, we have pre-ordered a full meal for six, turkey, ham, sides, and dessert for six from Spring Garden Bakery. There are so many places that are providing pre-cooked meals. We'll take pictures of what we ordered and show you once it is served, in case you want to plan ahead and order from them for Christmas. 

While many of the opportunities for a Thanksgiving meal this year have already passed, there are still places to get free food and to volunteer to help others. For example, on Nov. 22, Lawndale Baptist will give a free turkey and $25 gift card to the first 1,000 families. The parking lot opens at 6am. On November 23, 2022, the Church on 68 could use help with their Thanksgiving initiative and will have food for those in need (see HERE). The GCS public schools are open Monday and Tuesday, perhaps you could help someone at a school. Gift cards are always appreciated. Be creative in your approach to helping. Perhaps a neighbor could use some cheer- and a plate of food. Perhaps you don't want to be alone. Serve and have your soul nurtured at the same time. Helping others can help us feel as calm as Lake Higgins on a still, late-fall afternoon at sunset.

Happy Sunday!

Viburnum Prunifolium (Blackhaw)

There is a plant growing in our backyard that we hadn't been able to identify (see above). There is a group on Facebook called  NC Native Plant Forum. They are really good about helping people identify and get advice on plants. You may be thinking "there is an app for that"; however, it is so much nicer to ask someone who may also be able to provide follow up information. If you seek advice, remember to show enough of the leaf pattern to show if leaves alternate or are directly across from each other, bark, stems, and any other details. Once identified, you can have fun finding out other information. This plant is native to eastern North Carolina and we can assure you that we didn't plant it so it must be pretty easy to get to grow in this area. It is a viburnum prunifolium.

The common name for this tree if Blackhawk. The fruit, a relative of the high bush cranberry,  is edible and, according to this website, tastes a bit smoky and prune like.We love planting edibles, so it looks like nature planted one for us. We tried it yesterday and it is a grainy texture and reminds us of a persimmon. It is also persimmon-like, given the seed to pulp ratio. The seed is inedible, so we won't be harvesting these anytime soon.  Fall is a fun time to explore the forest and wooded areas around Greensboro. There are plenty of berries and woodland goods that aren't edible, so be sure to confirm before tasting. Do you have this plant in your yard? Have you ever seen one?

Happy Thursday!

Leaves: Fall Foliage Peaking in Greensboro

Fall in Greensboro is so beautiful. The above trees are on the island between Westover Terrace and Lawndale/Battleground Avenue- across from IHOP and Hardees. Every year, we look forward to their beautiful show of color as the sun is setting. They remind us of how grateful we are to live in a city with a change of seasons and deciduous trees. If online predictions are correct, we've got about another week of good fall color. Usually by the beginning of November, color starts waning as we wait through winter for spring. Greensboro had a frost this past week which means persimmons should be more than ready. However, the upcoming week should be a beautiful fall week, with crisp mornings and warm afternoons.

Happy Sunday, and for those of you who like a spiritual message, especially on the Sabbath, Martin Luther said, "God writes the Gospel not in the Bible alone, but also on trees, and in the flowers and clouds and stars."  Greensboro is proof positive that nature is a symbol of harmony and beauty.

 

Lovely Fall Weather in October in Greensboro

Since the residual rains and wind from Hurricane Ian last week, the fall weather in Greensboro has been lovely. Temperatures have been cooler, the air crisper, and the skies clearer. The planet Jupiter has been visible in the sky, the closest it has been to the earth since 1963. Jupiter won't be this close to earth again until 2129. The waning hunter moon had an orange tint last night.

The street views of the Farm Course golf course at the Greensboro Country Club are beautiful. The above photo was taken recently in the Horse Pen Creek/Carlson Dairy Road area. While  leaves are not yet at peak color at Greensboro's elevation (only 892'), with the help of the sky, the views have been lovely. Just look at the blue hues, the puffy clouds, against the muted greens. Those rust colored leaves are the center piece. That sand trap in the middle almost looks like a moon crater. In Greensboro, this is one of the best times of year to get out and walk and notice nature. Remember, if you want butterflies in your yard, and other insects that birds love, you need to find places where you can leave leaves. When you rake away all leaves, you rake away a piece of the ecosystem around you. Even the golf course has some "rough" around the edges. And, those acorns that fall are a fall feast for critters. Some wildlife facilities even take them. Nature is just so lovely. 

Happy Tuesday, happy October, happy fall!

October Full Moon

Today's  full moon in October is named for the pre-winter hunting season. It is often known as the Hunter's Full Moon. Travel, Dying Grass, and Sanguine Moon are other names. The term Hunter's Moon is so named because it coincides with hunting season for some wild game. Even the animals being hunted seem to know it is about to get cold. The above photo was taken in Northwest Greensboro. On this day of rest, Sabbath for Christians, what can be more spiritual than a full moon on a clear night, so bright, no flashlight is needed. Last night was clear, so the the moon reflected sunlight to the extent that a shadow was cast.

Last night, even the owls were howling, the air was crisp, and the sky was so clear, the stars were visible. Night skies like what we saw in Greensboro last night are so special. If you get a chance, peek out tonight and let us know what you see.

Happy Sunday!

Happy Fall 2022

Happy First Day of Fall! Mother Nature must have gotten the message as temperatures have lowered a bit. By Saturday, the temperature may even dip below 50º in Greensboro. It is time for us to get out our sweaters. Locally, the leaves are just barely starting to show signs of changing. The above photo is one of the signs of nature we've seen recently, not too far from Lake Higgins. We think this is some form of a crabapple tree, and as you can see the fruit is turning bright red.

There are lots of varieties of crabapples and some are native to North America. While the fruit, especially these small ones, can be hard to harvest, their growth is attractive from the green foliage and first booms in spring to the fruit and color changes in the fall. Crabapples are a good source of vitamin C, which we all need to fight off illness.

What are the signs of fall around your Greensboro neighborhood? Let us know and we'll try to get out to capture a photo in your neighborhood! Do you see birds and butterflies migrating? Happy 265th day of the year! Happy Fall and....

Happy Thursday!

Rainy Days

The above photo was taken downtown on Saturday around 2pm as the NC Folk Festival was gearing up for the day. While the rain was a bit convenient, most of the venues were covered, making it possible to enjoy good music without getting too wet. Also, a light rain can really add mood to the music. It can also make it hard to keep the instruments in tune. The above photo features people walking along the part of the festival where the vendors were set up. The bright colors of the pedestrians with umbrellas really contrasts with the grayness of the sky and the buildings.  We love the fact that the street sign anchors the photo on the 100 block of South Elm Street, as does the sign on the building to the right. Something about the mood evokes one of the paintings you might see in one of the street stalls in Paris. Currently, there is no rain in the forecast for the next week or more. Let's hope this last round was enough to keep our end of summer gardens watered.

If you subscribe to Greensboro Daily Photo through email. We apologize that your service has been interrupted. Mr. GDP spent most of the day yesterday addressing the problem and finding a subscription service we're hoping we can depend on. As he explains, we are a mom and pop organization with limited tech skills. A lot has changed since we started this daily photo site 13 years ago. Here's to happy readers. May this virtual endeavor continue to bring you joy. Happy Thursday!

Greensboro Science Center at Family Night

Last night, the Greensboro Science Center teamed up with Chick-Fil-A at Friendly Center for their Family Night. From 5:30- 7:00, the theme was butterflies. There were coloring pages,  thumbprint art, and an opportunity to make a paper butterfly. The monarch backdrop was perfect for photo opportunities. There was also a balloon twister and a face painter. If you didn't get by the event last night and want to learn more about butterflies, head to the Greensboro Science Center. The Monarch Conservation Center/Butterfly House is quite a fun experience. There, you can learn how to make your yard a safe stopover area for monarch migration. Between now and early October, the monarch should be migrating south through North Carolina. It is not too late to start planting for their May to July journey from Mexico to Canada.

Over the last two decades, the Greensboro Science Center (4301 Lawndale Drive)  has grown by leaps and bounds; as have their community outreach efforts. The family night at Chick-Fil-A is one such example. This partnering was especially convenient for families who were eating out anyway and we hear the icedream sundaes were a hit. The above photo features set up for the event. How wonderful that in-person events are happening again.

Happy Wednesday!

The Destroying Angel Mushroom

With the rain we've had lately, mushrooms seem to be popping up before our eyes in Greensboro. In searching mushroom identification pages, we're pretty sure that these are Destroying Angel mushrooms and they are highly toxic.  For living things, we often search resources through NC State (see HERE). If you love learning about mushrooms, you might consider joining the Piedmont Triad Mushroom Club. This Triad area non-profit will help you gain a greater understanding and appreciation of mushrooms. If you've been to the Greensboro Curb Market on Yanceyville, likely, you've seen people selling mushrooms of just about every color. You can talk to vendors and they might even be able to help you get started in growing mushrooms as a hobby.

The greenway and trails are a great place to see mushrooms in the wild; as is the Piedmont Environmental Center. Any shaded place with undisturbed leaf and stick matter is usually a great place to spot mushrooms.  Remember, unless you are on your own property, please don't be tempted to pick the mushrooms. If you want a closer look of the underside, use your phone camera and take a photo. It works well. They are especially common after a rain.

Happy Wednesday! Happy exploring!

 

Sunset over Battleground Avenue

Last night's weather was pretty spectacular. First, we had a much needed soaking rain, after a pretty warm day. After the rain, when the sun came our and was starting to set, there was a very clear rainbow, with a well defined arc. Actually, it was a double rainbow with the top rainbow a little faint, but visible. Finally, the clouds broke at the horizon, letting the blue sky peek through, but there was a thick indigo coverage of clouds above. It would have been an ideal night to be near one of Greensboro's lakes to take a picture. However, we were on North Battleground Avenue and stopped at the Wal-Mart, because it is up on a hill and is is an urban space where you can get a photo without power lines in the way. 

When the ground is damp, you get an added bonus of a reflection, even on cement and asphalt. In a way, the parking lot adds visual interest. Man's contribution to the  landscape. The headlights definitely anchor the eye in the parking lot. There is a painting in the permanent collection of the Weatherspoon that is mostly dark with headlights. This photo reminds us of that painting. The more you look at both of them, the more you start to notice and it feels like night vision is starting to kick in. We need to find out the name of that painting. Do you know it?

Today is supposed to be sunny and in the mid 80s all day. Let's all enjoy this late summer weather as fall will soon be on its way. Are you ready for September? For now.... Happy last day of August!