Living the blur, on to 2012

I looked up again, the leaves were gone and Red Tail hawk were hunting from power lines in the bright, winter light as they watched for prey and as I zipped east and west on I-40. After September and the Hummingbird Festival, life has been an action-packed blur. More on that later . . .

One of the rules of blogging is don’t start if you aren’t going to be consistent. I haven’t been, which I regret but know that it will probably happen again. I ask for your patience.

First, the catch-up: Thanks to our speakers and each of you who contributed your voice and experiences at the Sustainability Tent round table discussions during the Strawberry Plains Audubon Center Hummingbird Festival.  If you weren’t able to join us, click here for a few helpful resources.  Glad to meet several new leaders in sustainable practices including a representative of a Houston boutique specializing in selling recycled and 100% recyclable products who wanted to know more about Bon Ami, and an instructor who focuses on sustainability at a Dallas school.

One of our visitors was Marion Sansing, Executive Director for Gaining Ground Sustainability Institute of Mississippi. For residents of Mississippi, there are chapters for The Pinebelt, North Central and the Golden Triangle Area.

On to 2012: As you build your calendar for 2012, consider participating in Gaining Ground’s third conference on “Living Sustainably Within Your Community” February 25 at the Eagle Ridge Conference Center in Raymond, MS. 

And while we’re talking planning, don’t forget the Great Backyard Bird Count on President’s Day Weekend, February 17-20.  For the past four years, our small community of Hudsonville  has met at one farm and then moved on to at least one more farm, sometimes two to check species and enjoy a great day of walking. We’ve already spotted the Northern Harrier and we’re hoping the Bald Eagle will show up during the count this year.

One last 2012 calendar entry for you, the Native Plant Sale at Strawberry Plains Audubon Center May 18 and 19.  This is your chance to visit the beautiful grounds of the center, but also the opportunity to learn more about the critical connection between native plants and bird and insect species.  If you’re interested in a little reading beforehand, read Dr. Doug Tallamy’s book “Bringing Nature Home.” Also read “Mindful Gardening,” my article in Arkansas Wild last March including a helpful calendar.

 I resolve to share more great opportunities in the mid-South during the next 12 months, and, yes, post more regularly. Forward your events and I’ll include in a future post.

More on that later . . . The blur consisted of helping out with a few nonprofit events including The Wrecking Ball, but has mostly been spent in renovating a late ‘60s duplex and attempting to complete the project with a focus on retaining and repurposing.  It hasn’t been easy, but I’ll share more about the professionals who have helped me reach as many of the goals as possible.  Happy New Year!