The Daily R-r-r-ibbit

Frog Pond Holler is springing to life

It's felt like spring up here for several weeks, and now I can report some actual happenings beyond that energy's emergence. Shadow was especially rowdy today when we all went out for a walk. I'm guessing he was born about this time last year, and I'm planning a party of some kind for him this weekend.

Before I went out, I noticed an assassin bug crawling around my phone, so I took his picture first:

Two days ago I saw my first butterfly of the season -- an Eastern Comma -- but didn't have my camera with me. Today, though, I came across a Mourning Cloak feeding on something in the grass:

I saw a couple of frogs today but wasn't fast enough to get a photo. They started doing their spring peeping thing on Monday or Tuesday.

No flowers here yet but I've got some pregnant daffodils,

and the blackberry bushes are leafing out:

Woohoo! Before I go to change the Daily R-r-r-ibbit's banner to something more springlike, I just want to say that I hope everyone has a great day tomorrow, celebrating the 2010 vernal equinox with Earth and all of its sentient beings!

Far North First Nations Band Together to Insure Healthy Environment

Due to unprecedented levels of mining activity in the Far North on lands associated with what is known as the Ring of Fire, four Far North First Nations have determined the need to form a collaborative relationship to ensure that future generations inherit a safe and healthy environment.

Today the Ontario Minister of Northern Development Mines and Forestry, along with the Minister of Natural Resources, witnessed the Chiefs of Eabametoong First Nation, Neskantaga First Nation, Nibinamik First Nation and Webequie First Nation sign a Statement of Relationship. The Chiefs from the four communities have recognized the need for a coordinated approach and to work collaboratively.

via netnewsledger.com