Dragonflies

We do so enjoy the hatch of the dragonflies in early summer.  They are welcome visitors who eat mosquitoes and other insects.  Sometimes a group of dragonflies come on a walk with us because we draw the mosquitoes!  Beautiful, delicate creatures.

Views from the Kayak

The first view is from our bay - Steamboat Bay looking toward the main part of our thousand acre plus lake - Lost Land Lake.  The second view is looking down into the water along the shore.  The lake has naturally occurring tannin from certain trees making the water brown in color and not being able to see very far down.

The shadow is my paddle.  You can see the reflection of a tree on the right and a cloud reflection in the upper right.

Musical Rocks

When I kayak, I usually paddle by an outcropping of rocks in the middle of our bay.  We have seagulls on these rocks even though we are an hour from Lake Superior.  There are approximately 30 rocks above the water and the gulls like to play "Musical Rocks."  Here's how they play.  One new gull will arrive and land on an already occupied rock, forcing the gull on the rock to take flight to another rock, which is already occupied.  So the gulls continue to change rocks until one gull is without a rock and then flies away.  The gull may head to another lake or more likely circle around to start the game again.

Because I came close for a picture, several were startled and took flight.  I normally watch the game at a distance.

Water Lilies

I have decided to be daring and take photos while I'm kayaking.  The white flowers on the water are...wait for it..."White Water Lily."  That is the official name in the Wisconsin Wildflower Book.  Sometimes Wisconsin people can be so unimaginative.  The second photo is the small creek "Davis Creek" where I like to hang out.  It is only big enough for kayaks.

We're Still Alive and Kickin'

Case had planned outpatient surgery on July 3 at the VA in Minneapolis.  After the surgery and 3 visits to the emergency room (no one's fault - Case had a reaction to the anesthesia), we are at home and on the mend. 

Only one funny anecdote from this whole thing:  I noticed a very sweet little candy striper while waiting in pre-op.  She walked over and started talking to Case.  She was his surgeon.

This was our first experience at a VA facility (Case served in the Air Force 1974-76).  Veterans are treated well I am very happy to report.