September 11, 2025  Elfsight Chat Box is Here to Help—See Link Above

Besides serving as a search engine, an Elfsight ChatBox/Bot Widget's real power is in its ability to  summarize long/wordy posts found throughout tboltondigitalart’s web pages utilizing Elfsight's Chatbot.  The user's Elfsight Chat Box entry is conveyed to an ai driven ChatBot (Elfsight's ai virtual assistant) which then generates a response.   So, in my interpretation, there are two core components at work--The Chatbox and the Chatbot.  Here’s an example. 

Last month’s post to More Odds and Ends--August 15, 2025, "The Sports Industry--Its Effect on Society", is seven pages and 1,490 words in length.  Unless a person has a lot of time on their hands, a brief summary would likely be the best route to follow.  Within seconds, a summary can be generated.   See images below for a closer look.

The Elfsight Chat Box/Bot (Trial Version), is now linked to a dedicated chat box page and is accessible from All pages in addition to the Home Page.  The new - CHAT BOX - link is located beneath Home in the left side bar menu.

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Note:  Elfsight ai Virtual Assistant can provide a summary of the content on which it was trained.  It can also provide a conclusion based on specified data from the same source.

However, Elfsight cannot validate the accuracy, provide an assessment, make comparisons or critique using data retrieved from external internet resources. This is what Elfsight says about "inference" regarding generating a response:   Click here  Inference* (source:  Google Labs | AI Overview).

It's my understanding that Elfsight's ai Virtual Assistant does not access external links nor does it perform webcrawls to gathering more information--for security and copyright infringement reasons.  All training materials must be uploaded manually.  Elfsight provides a cloud-based service, meaning all the data collection and processing happens on their servers, not yours.  That is, Elfsight collects what the web site administrator uploads to them.

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Here's one more factual tidbit provided by Google Labs | AI Overview:  "Explain why Elfsight's AI virtual Assistant can respond to a given question using  language and a writing  style far better than in the original text submitted for training?"

• Elfsight's AI assistant can produce responses with superior language and writing style compared to its specific training data because it relies on a large language model (LLM) that is far more sophisticated than the custom data you provide.

• The custom data you upload is used for fine-tuning, not for its core language abilities.

• The assistant’s high-quality writing stems from three primary factors: a powerful pre-trained foundation*, a fine-tuning process, and sophisticated natural language processing (NLP).

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  *Links to information found on AI Overview is unstable; that it, the information generated by AI Overview is dynamic and may change at any time.

September 1, 2025  Labor Day -- For All Hard Workers--Employed, Unemployed, and Retired!

This day is a tribute to all workers who have built this country and keep in going strong.

Tom

Updated:  09-23-2025, 09-22-2025, 09-21-2025, 09-20-2025, 09-14-2025, 09-13-2025, 09-11-2025, 09-07-2025, 09-06-2025, 09-05-2025, 09-04-2025, 09-03-2025, 09-01-2025.

August 4 2025   Revival -- Resilience of Wildflowers and Other Topics

The wildfire smoke has shifted eastward, at least for now.  The suffocating vegetation and animal life, including myself can once again breathe easier. 

Clear, sunny skies and moderate temperatures have reinvigorated the mixed- and wildflowers that have just begun to bloom.  The varieties are different from last year but this year's bloom seems to be a week or two behind last year.  My original intent was to replant seeds gathered last fall; however, I misplaced them.  I later found the package of harvested seeds stored in a safe place--but too safe to remember where.

This year I've stored them with the gardening supplies and will try again next year to see if any germinate--provided they remain in the same place.  I think investing in a grow light for early next year would be more beneficial than relying on a dimly lit basement windows for seedling development for both the flowers and cherry trees as explained in more detail in the next paragraph.

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I've begun to save cherry seeds for the past month (180 ct,) which I've prepared for cold stratification (Depitted, sandwiched between multiple layers of moistened paper towel treated with cinnamon powder to inhibit mold growth (eight seeds per quarter section of paper towel); next, wrapped in aluminum foil and then in a zip lock bag partially open on one end to permit oxygenation).  The seeds are presently tucked away in the vegetable drawer of the fridge.  I'll take a peek at them in a few months.

Hopefully, there are enough seeds stored to improve the odds of growing at least one cherry tree, which was unsuccessful this spring due to poor handling.  Nearly all of the 20 cherry seeds that were kept in cold storage sprouted; however, one by one they all withered and died after they had been planted in potting soil.

I had kept the young cherry tree seedlings in a controlled environment by covering them with a clear plastic tent (makeshift greenhouse), watered them at least twice weekly with snow-melt water and later with purified water (not chlorinated)--but there was just not enough sunlight.

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Again, it's been a few years since several gallons of dandelion wine were fermented and aged (2022 & 2023 growing seasons).  The sealed quart jars of wine are clear and light and have a pleasant bouquet.  How it plays on the palate remains to be explored.  

August 2, 2025   Air Pollution Again -- Environment

The wildfire smoke has been relentless in northern regions of the U.S.  I have been dragging myself around the house after venturing outdoors for a few minutes to water the flowers and feed the birds.  Water in the bird bath and watering dishes has turned brown by the morning due to the particulates in the air. 

Yesterday, most of the potted plants were wilted and drooping.  I set the pots in the shade and misted them with a fine spray.  By evening they had perked up.

And what about the insects?  As mentioned in earlier posts, most have disappeared--no doubt died from asphyxiation.  Except for ants on the patio and a beetle or two beneath an outdoor doormat, that's about it.

A few moths, one butterfly, and a single encounter with a mosquito have been it.  No spiders to be seen in their usual hangouts--They've probably starved to death from lack of prey.  No cricket sounds either.  Sometimes a lone frog can be heard calling out in the evening.

There are a few bug splatters on the windshield from night driving but nothing compared to past years.  Grasshoppers and locusts seem to have gone extinct.  A couple of front and back yard toads feed on the ants.  One enjoys lounging in a water dish to cool off.  The water dishes are set out for rabbits, squirrels and stray cats--the toad is just being resourceful.

Even after a refreshing rain, the lawn, hedges, and trees continue to smell like a wet ash pile until they dry.  Then, in a little while, the smoke drifts over the state once again that blocks the sunshine and fouls the air.

The thick and unhealthy wildfire smoke has now been an annual event for the past several years and it seems to be intensifying.  Is this a forewarning of what is to come or has the worst already arrived.

Forest management is an impossibilty--look at a map at the enormous amount of forested land there is in remote regions of Canada?  Why now we ask.  Is this a natural or man-made event, or a combination of both?

Updated:  08-30-2025, 08-26-2025, 08-25-2025, 08-24-2025, 08-23-2025, 08-22-2025, 08-21-2025, 08-20-2025, 08-19-2025, 08-18-2025, 08-17-2025, 08-16-2025, 08-15-2025, 08-14-2025, 08-13-2025, 08-12-2025, 08-11-2025, 08-10-2025, 08-08-2025, 08-07-2025, 08-06-2025, 08-05-2025, 08-04-2025, 08-03-2025, 08-02-2025, 08-01-2025.

July 6, 2025   Flowers and Trees--Gardening, Photography

It has been exactly One year since the first Bachelor Buttons appeared on this page.  They are now back for another summer for everyone to enjoy.

Late last winter I planted cheery seeds that had been extracted from their pits and stored in the refridgerator for several months.  They were kept covered with a sprinkle of cinnamon in a damp environment  between layers of paper towels and wrapped in aluminum foil.   By early March most of them had sprouted and were planted in potting soil and placed in a basement window out of reach of the cats.  Of the two dozen that were planted  only two survived to be planted outdoors. Unfortunately, they too whithered and died after a week of variable temperatures.  Too bad so Sad.

On the brigher side, at the same time, I had planted One apple seed indoors in potting soil.  It germinated after a few weeks and now is a hardy little tree standing about two or 3 inches tall.  Learning from the demise of the cherry trees, I kept the little tree beneath a clear plastic dome to protect it from the elements--an inverted plastic food container served as its miniature green house.  Now this once limp little tree that had to be propped up is now strong enough to stand on its own.  Should threatening weather approach.  The plastic container is by its side and ready for use where it is held in place with popsicle sticks. (See image below).

The mixed wildflowers are late, but several of the potted plants are finally producing buds.  They are not ready to be displayed and now reside near a large table in the back yard.  If the weather turns foul, the smaller planters and pots can be placed beneath the table for protection.

July 4, 2025   Have a Happy and Safe Fourth of July!

July 1, 2025  Today's Digital Art World -- Misuse of AI  ? ? ? 

Tom

Updated:   07-30-2025, 07-29-2025, 07-28-2025, 07-26-2025, 07-24-2025, 07-22-2025, 07-21-2025, 07-18-2025, 07-15-2025, 07-10-2025, 07-07-2025. 07-06-2025, 07-05-2025, 07-04-2025, 07-03-2025, 07-02-2025, 07-01-2025.

June 19, 2025 Juneteenth--National Holiday.

June 15, 2025 Happy Father's Day--Google ImageFX

June 1, 2025 Photography -- Environment

Updated:   06-30-2025, 06-28-2025, 06-22-2025, 06-21-2025, 06-20-2025, 06-19-2025, 06-15-2025, 06-01-2025.

May 26, 2025  Memorial Day

May 22, 2025  Regional Temperature Variation -- Weather

In early May the North Central Region of North Dakota was experiencing drought conditions with very little moisture or winter runoff due to a light snowfall and lack of rain.

Record high temperatures were set during this month with some areas reaching the triple digits (see data extracted from AccuWeather below).

Temperatures plummeted from near 100 degrees to below or near freezing within a few day--a 67 degrees drop.

Along with the temperature change came a welcomed soaking but gentle rain that fell  over a multi-state region that ended in a light drizzle yesterday for our immediate area.  Today is the first day of sunshine  in the past ten days or so.

The state had been experiencing its own wildfires earlier in the month but  the steady rainfall ended that for now.  No one is complaining too much about the rain, expecially farmers, with the exception of delays in spring planting due to wet field conditions.

May 22, 2025  Regional Temperature Variation -- Weather

In early May the North Central Region of North Dakota was experiencing drought conditions with very little moisture or winter runoff due to a light snowfall and lack of rain.

Record high temperatures were set during this month with some areas reaching the triple digits (see data extracted from AccuWeather below).

Temperatures plummeted from near 100 degrees to below or near freezing within a few day--a 67 degrees drop.

Along with the temperature change came a welcomed soaking but gentle rain that fell  over a multi-state region that ended in a light drizzle yesterday for our immediate area.  Today is the first day of sunshine  in the past ten days or so.

The state had been experiencing its own wildfires earlier in the month but  the steady rainfall ended that for now.  No one is complaining too much about the rain, expecially farmers, with the exception of delays in spring planting due to wet field conditions.

May 11, 2025  Happy Mother's Day

May 1, 2025  May Day -- Traditions and Ceremonies

Updated:   05-29-2025, 05-26-2025, 05-23-2025, 05-22-2025, 05-15-2025, 05-17-2025, 05-16-2025, 05-15-2025, 05-14-2025, 05-13-2025, 05-12-2025, 05-11-2025, 05-09-2025, 05-08-2025, 05-07-2025, 05-06-2025, 05-04-2025, 05-01-2025.

April 28, 2025  Almost Spring . . .

April 20, 2025  Easter Sunday

April 10, 2025  Pheasant -- Photogaphy

The snow is 99% melted and spring birds as well as those that were with us all winter have begun to appear in greater numbers.  Here is a backyard visitor seen this morning.

April 1, 2025 --

! yaD 'slooF lirpA

Updated:  04-30-2025, 04-28-2025, 04-26-2025, 04-25-2025, 04-23-2025, 04-22-2025, 04-21-2025, 04-20-2025, 04-17-2025, 04-15-2025, 04-13-2025, 04-10-2025, 4-09-2025, 04-07-2025, 04-06-2025, 04-04-2025, 04-02-2025, 04-01-2025.

March 20, 2025   First Day of Spring!! -- Snowy Owl Sighting

Although the first day of Spring is not an official holiday, it is marked on the calendar as a special event--especially after a long and cold North Dakota winter.

Today was a balmy 60 degrees with sunshine.  Snow banks were melting and barring a spring blizzard or two, we'll be seeing green grass in a month or two.

This afternoon was even more special because on the drive home from an outing, we had the good fortune of sighting a snowy owl (arctic owl) perched on a tall power pole about a 15 minute drive from home.

Coincidentally, I had posted a story about arctic owls and other birds on February 11, 2025 see (More Odds and Ends listed in the left side bar).

Here is the location of the Snowy Owl sighting and other data:

Directions:  2.5 miles south of Renvile Corner along U.S. Highway 83 (perched atop a power pole on the west side of the road), Bottineau County, North Dakota.

Geo Location (Google Maps)  48.731058, -101.301486
Time: 4:10 p.m. CDT
Date March 20, 2025

The owl was looking west at a stubble field with only a few patches of snow remaining here and there.

My wife said she had never seen a white owl before, so we turned around and drove by it two more times before continuing home.  I did not want to stop the car to take a picture--that would have probably spooked the bird.  Merely sighting the owl was reward enough.

Based on what I had mentioned in the previous post, I feared never see one again; but, today made my day.  I couldn't remember the last time I had seen an arctic owl--at least 30 years ago.

Here's a Zoomed in Snowy Owl Sightings Map that marks the spot, or click the link below for the Global Map: 

March 17, 2025   Happy St. Patrick's Day   Limerick

Tom

Updated:  03-31-2025, 03-28-2025, 03-27-2025, 03-26-2025, 03-21-2025, 03-20-2025, 03-17-2025, 03-16-2025, 03-15-2025, 03-13-2025, 03-12-2025, 03-10-2025, 03-08-2025, 03-07-2025, 03-06-2025, 03-20-2025, 03-04-2025, 03-03-2025, 03-01-2025.

February 17, 2025   President's Day 2025

Monday, February 17 is Presidents Day, a federal holiday to observe the birthdays of former presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. 

February 14, 2025 

February 2, 2025  Ground Hog Day

Groundhog Day is celebrated with the annual appearance of Punxsutawney Phil, a semi-mythical groundhog who predicts the weather in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. The tradition is based on a Pennsylvania Dutch superstition that originated with German immigrants.  

[Source:  Google Lab's | AI Overview]

Update:  Punxsutawny Phil saw his shadow today which means he predicts six more weeks of winter.

[Source:  Live Television New Report]

Updated:   02-28-2025, 02-27-2025, 02-26-2025, 02-25-2025, 02-24-2025, 02-22-2025, 02-20-2025, 02-18-2025, 02-17-2025, 02-15-2025, 02-14-2025, 02-11-2025, 02-09-2025, 02-08-2025, 02-05-2025, 02-03-2025, 02-02-2025.

January 20, 2025  Martin Luther King Jr. Day

In the silence of his dream,
A voice once echoed, clear and true,
Across the miles, across the years,
A vision bright, of justice due.

He walked with hope, where hate had stood,
And spoke for those with no power to speak,
His words still rise, a quiet flood,
A beacon for the strong and weak.

Today we honor all he gave,
The fight for peace, the road he paved,
With love as guide, and faith as shield,
His legacy, forever sealed.

January 13, 2035  Almost Reality -- Creeping Inflation in a Cashless Society

Updated:  01-29-2025, 01-28-2025, 01-27-2025, 01-26-2025, 01-25-2025, 01-22-2025, 01-20-2025, 01-18-2025, 01-17-2025, 01-16-2025, 01-15-2025, 01-14-2025, 01-13-35, 01-11-2025, 01-10-2025, 01-09-2025, 01-07-2025, 01-03-2025, 01-02-2025, 01-01-2025.

December 25, 2024  Seasons Greetings -- Photography

Jack Frost visited a few days ago.

December 7, 2024  Pearl Harbor Day -- AI, Labs Google/FX

On December 7th, the primary activity celebrated is National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, commemorating the attack on Pearl Harbor that occurred on this date in 1941...

Source:  Search Labs | AI Overview

Updated:  12-26-2024, 12-25-2024, 12-18-2024, 12-16-2024, 12-15-2024, 12-14-2024, 12-07-2024, 12-04-2-24, 12-03-2024.

November 28, 2024  Happy Thanksgiving -- Microsoft Image Creator

Text Prompt:  "Please create a photorealisitic image of a large family gathering seated around their dining room table enjoying Thanksgiving Day Dinner. Paint using a Norman Rockwell Style with a 1950s motif." 

November 11, 2024  Veteran's Day 2024 -- Google Image FX

November 1, 2024  Vote -- and be Counted in the Presidential and other Elections.

A Bi-partisan Perspective:

If you haven't already voted, set aside time to cast your ballot.  Exercising your right to vote is what keeps our country strong.  Whether your candidates of choice win or lose you have done your part.  Congratulations are in order for the winners; also, thank the losers for their dedication and concern.

Regardless of who wins the election we as a people get exactly what we deserve.  The Rule of Majority is the law of the land.  Celebration should be short lived and then it's time to get back to the business of governance.

Crying over spilt milk and sorrow of loss should be brief.  A handshake seals the deal and the realization of victory or defeat indicates that it is time to move onward.

At this point in life I have lived during 14 Presidencies which have been divided almost equally between Republican and Democratic candidates.  Their political affiliations have become clouded in my mind and I remember them mostly for their accomplishments while in office rather than for their shortcomings or their party's stance.  After all, they represented We the People.

Updated:  11-30-2024, 11-28,2024, 11-29-2024, 11-25-2024, 11-21-2024, 11-17-2024, 11-16-2024, 11-13-2024, 11-11-2024, 11-01-2024.

October 31, 2024  Happy Halloween -- Treats and Snacks

Goodies, costumes, and decorations are the best parts of Halloween.  It is enjoyed by the  young and old alike.  Orange and black wrappers are in direct contrast to the upcoming red, white, green, and other sparkly stuff at Christmas.

If you shop around good deals on bags of miniature candy bars, etc., do occur.  Here are some examples that we found at Menards.  In addition, Menards usually offers a 11% rebate on all store products.

Save about a dollar per bag on Nestles Crunch Bars--Fun Size:  10 oz. bag;  22 ct.; or  Kit Kats--Fun Size: 10.7 Oz. bag.  Fun Size bags of candy are even priced down to around $2.00 a bag for clearance sales after the holidays!

Other good buys recently found at Menards include: Taffy Town Saltwater Taffy (assorted flavors); 15 oz. bag; 60 pieces; $4.29 and Sach's Peanuts (In the Shell, Unsalted or Salted); 5 lb. bag; $7.59.

Sach's Peanuts are fresh and well roasted.  Both the Unsalted and Salted bags have a good flavor.

Taffy Town Saltwater Taffy is good quality with an assortment of 12 distinct flavors.  The wrappers twist off easily and are not pressed into the taffy. 

You get your money's worth for both generous bags of peanuts and taffy!

Snack On . . .

October 14, 2024  Indigenous Peoples' Day and Columbus Day

October 11, 2024  Autumn -- Photography

Updated:  10- 31-2024, 10-29-2024, 10-16-2024, 10-14-2024, 10-11-2024, 10-04-2024, 10-02-2024.

September 4, 2024 Air Quality -- Environment

This morning at 9:30 a.m. CDT a thick layer of choking smoke covers the area in a state of dead calm.  Hopefully, school children have recess indoors on days like this.  Air Qualitiy Index:   HAZARDOUS.

Not a peanut or speck of bird and critter food that was set out last evening has been eaten.   Usually its gone by this time.  There are no birds in flight and the squirrels have not arrived.

It's currently 10:00 a.m. and the Sun is trying to peek through the layers of cloudy smoke.  A Blue Jay's loud cry can be heard and I can see a squirrel's tail thrashing back and forth in the tree above one of the bird feeders.  Winds have increased and with luck, the smoke will dissipate.  Remained indoors.

At 12:00 p.m. noticed smoke had inflitrated one bedroom through a window air conditioning duct for a new-fangled portable air conditioning system on wheels.  Removed duct, closed window completely, moved a small (easy to carry) portable air purfier into bedroom, turned on the Ionizer feature, set fan speed on high to clean up the air, exited the room, and closed the door.

Our new auxilary air conditioning system for our older home is not without its faults.   Besides being noisy,  the air conditioner's exhaust duct possibly allows smoke to enter through the 6" flexible tubing outlet that connects to the air conditioner in the room.  If in fact that is where the smoke is entering, this design needs some re-thinking by including a feature that would restrict air flow or rain incursion at the window if need be.  That is, heavy rain driven by a strong wind could also blow into the flexible tubing that is protected only by a window screen and potentially flood the room.

Recommendation for portable window exhaust air conditioners like ours (especially if you're going to be away from home):  Remove  exhaust duct from the window and close slider window when severe weather is threatening; or, in the above mentioned case, whenever air quality has been compromised.  On the other hand, if temperatures require air conditioned cooling, then the room hot air exhaust should prevent smoke from entering while in operation.  In certain situations, rain may be able to enter with or without the air conditioner in operation.

Checked bedroom air at 12:15 p.m.  Air was odorless but decided to continue running the room air purifier for a while longer.

It is now 3:00 p.m.   Outside air is less polluted and the wind has changed direction.  With the room now smoke  free, the exhaust duct was re-inserted in the slider window opening (a two minute fix) and the air purifier was moved elsewhere.

By the way, under normal conditions, we are completely satisified with the portable air conditioner's ability to cool the area.  It's easy to operate (remote control) and maintains the temperature according to our specified settings.  It can also de-humdify and heat but these applications are unnecessary for our needs.

Other Environmental Information (Google Search Labs and Selected Links):

Prompt:  Are carbon dioxide emissions from forest and wildfires, volcanic eruptions, and animal waste decomposition greater than emissions from human consumption of fossil fuels?

Google Search Labs:   No, carbon dioxide emissions from forest and wildfires, volcanic eruptions, and animal waste decomposition combined are significantly less than the emissions from human consumption of fossil fuels; human activities, particularly burning fossil fuels, are considered the largest contributor to atmospheric carbon dioxide levels by a large margin.

(Generative AI is experimental.)

It is estimated that Global Carbon Dioxide emissions average 40 Billion Tons Annually of which 37 Billion Tons are attributed to Fossil Fuel Emissions.   Global Carbon Emissions from Fossil Fuels reached record high in 2023  -- Standford | Doerr School of Sustainability

__________________________________________

Prompt:  Have concerns about carbon dioxide emissions from human consumption of fossil fuels been overblown?

Google Search Labs:  No, concerns about excess carbon dioxide emissions are not overblown:

• Carbon dioxide levels are rising
  Carbon dioxide levels are higher than they have been in at least 3 million years. 

• Carbon dioxide is a heat-trapping gas
  Carbon dioxide is a heat-trapping gas that lingers in the atmosphere for hundreds of years. 

• Carbon dioxide emissions are increasing
  The total amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere increases every year because humans emit more carbon dioxide than natural sinks can remove. 

• Climate change is causing effects
  Climate change is causing effects such as increased drought, water shortages, and expanding deserts. 

• Carbon dioxide levels are expected to continue rising
  Scientists anticipate that carbon dioxide levels will continue to rise until humans reduce their use of fossil fuels. 

• Carbon dioxide levels can have health effects
  Breathing air with high concentrations of carbon dioxide can cause rapid breathing, confusion, increased blood pressure, and increased arrhythmias. Breathing oxygen depleted air can lead to death by suffocation.

(Generative AI is experimental.)

__________________________________________

Prompt:   Is it likely that smoke from forest and wilfires will become more prevalent in the United States and Canada? 

Google Search Labs:   Yes, it's likely that wildfire smoke will become more prevalent in the United States and Canada as climate change continues to increase the frequency and size of wildfires: 

• Climate change
  Climate change is causing the Arctic to warm faster than the rest of the world, which slows down the jet stream and creates a wavy path. This pattern can send warm air into central Canada and cooler air down to California. 

• Larger and more frequent fires
  Wildfires are becoming larger and more frequent due to climate change. The carbon released when forests burn contributes to climate change, which in turn leads to more fires. This is known as a "fire-climate feedback loop". 

• Increased smoke exposure
  Computer simulations show that there will be more smoky days, higher smoke concentrations, and larger burned areas in the future. 

• Health risks
  Breathing wildfire smoke can cause health problems, especially for the elderly and other vulnerable people. 

• Increased carbon emissions
  When forests burn, they release carbon that's stored in the trees and soil. This carbon contributes to climate change. 

• Increased fire activity
  Human activities expanding into forested areas is also contributing to the increase in fire activity.

 (Generative AI is experimental.)

__________________________________________

Opposing Views:

Negative effects of more CO2 have been exaggerated.

• Readily available data from governmental and reliable non-governmental sources confirm that extreme weather events in recent years have not occurred more frequently or with greater intensity.
  
  

• Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation (.gov)

         https://www.commerce.senate.gov › services › files      

Carbon Dioxide Benefits the World:  (pdf) The Coal Coalition

September 2, 2024 Labor Day Observance

Labor Day, celebrated in the United States on the first Monday of each September, is the nation's official commemoration of its workers' contributions to national strength, prosperity and well-being.    Labor Day

Take time to  pat yourself on the back and to recognize the efforts of others for their hard work keeping our country  in as good of shape as possible for this moment in time.

While everything may not be perfect, our unity  and continued hard work can sustain what we have accomplished  and hopefully, contribute to improving living conditions worldwide.  Purposeful Labor is a noble cause , idleness is not.

____________________________________________

Below:  A I Generated images.  Prompt:  Please create a realistic image of a road crew wearing hard hats and yellow vests working along a roadway setting up traffic cones, shoveling, and operating asphalt paving equipment.

September 1, 2024 Back to School

In many parts of the country the fall semester has already begun.   Opening day is an exciting time like no other.  The new kids will gradually adjust to their surroundings and it's up to the other students and staff to make them feel as comfortable as possible.

Updated:  09-27-2024, 09-21-2024, 09-11-2024, 09-07-2024, 09-06-2024, 09-04-2024, 09-03-2024, 09-02-2024, 09-01-2024.

August 10, 2024 Late Summer Flowers--Photography 

The  growing season is relatively short but many plants and flowers that have adapted to the climate will complete their life cycle.  Early July provided ample moisture and mild temperatures that produced lush vegetation.  As the summer heated up with a two-week dry spell, the delicate flowers began to wither in the hot sun.

Some of the outdoor plants have managed to endure the heat while others shriveled.  Their petals show the battle scars of persistent wind.  The only relief is the sprinkling can during the cooler part of the day.  More hardy varieties also have somewhat extended lives due to nightly cooldowns which are common in this part of the country (Northern Border U.S.A.)--until the first killing frost.

The following flowers were never photo perfect, but compared to seven or eight months of snow yet to come, their form and colors are beautiful to behold.  We make the most of what we have.

August 1, 2024  Blue Skies in All Directions--Photography

In many areas of the country, people are now appreciative of days when air quality is good to breath.  Persistent wildfires, forest fires, and other pollutants create a haze that only a rain or a shift in the wind will mitigate.

Dense forested areas covering thousands of square miles are ignited by natural as well as man-made causes.   Our efforts to squelch the flames take weeks and have become an ever increasing burden on human resources.  We seem to be helpless and must endure what the world has become.

On the bright side., this morning is beautiful.  There is not a cloud in the sky and the air is fresh.  Here are a few back yard photos taken from beneath the canopy of large trees.  Today, celebrates the first day of August.  It is time to marvel at what life used to be like Every Day .

Updated:  08-28-2024, 08-22-2024, 08-21-2024, 08-19-2024, 08-18-2024, 08-13-2024, 08-10-2024, 08-08-2024, 08-07-2024, 08-05-2024, 08-02-2024, 08-01-2024.

July 6, 2024 with July 13, July 23, and July 30 Updates  Garden Flowers -- Photography & GIMP Editing

July 30.  Just when I thought the flowers had reached their end, a pretty pink flower opened today.  The flowers are beginning to look a little weathered due to the past week of sweltering heat.  Click the Late Bloomers link below for today's update.

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July 23.  Here are additional flower varieties that have taken longer to bloom:  Late Bloomers (pdf file).   All images in this set are uncropped and unedited.  Since the previous update the flowers have survived a hail storm.  Damage was limited to 1 stem being broken by the hail.  Wind damage was minimal.

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July 13.  The first two images show more mature flowers after a week has passed.  No filters were applied.  Bright sunlight and wind were still an issue; however, a few images were of better quality after conditions improved.

Outer edges of image 1 were cropped and the basket hanger was hidden with cloned foliage added using GIMP.    Some flowers had grown too tall to be suspended from plant hangers.  Therefore, the baskets were placed beneath the hangers at ground level.

Besides cropping the top and bottom for image 2, a reduction of the vertical scale was applied to approximate the dimensions of the other images shown below.  Vertical scaling resulted in minor distortion of image 2.  Basket hangers were not hidden in the second image.

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July 6.  Mixed flower seeds were planted in late May.  Ideal growing conditions, with the exception of a few overcast days produced enough young flowers to be transplanted into  two  flower pots.  At this time the flowers contain many buds, but only several have blossomed.  Here are a few images after the cartoon filter was applied (images 3--7).

In an effort to re-purpose today's somewhat blurry images caused by bright sunlight and movement due to the wind, the following GIMP filter was applied to each:  Filters > Artistic > Cartoon... with the Mask Radius and Percent Black settings increased.  Cartoon filter setting values differed on all five images that produced varied effects.

July 4, 2024  Have a Happy and Safe Fourth of July

Image Source:  Microsoft Image Creator
Prompt:  Create an image of children with sparklers being supervised by adults at an evening July 4th Celebration.

Updated:  07-31-2024, 07-30-2024, 07-29-2024, 07-25-2024, 07-23-2024, 07-22-2024, 07-18-2024, 07-13-2024, 07-06-2024, 07-04-2024, 07-02-2024, 07-01-2024.

June 24, 2024  Brown Thrashers -- Photography

This morning is very warm and humid following last night's thunderstorm and downpour.  Birds are out in force enjoying the lush vegetation and sunshine.  North Dakota is generally dryer than it has been but sometimes there are very wet years.  So far in this locality, 2024 weather has proven to be very enjoyable.  Just like everywhere else, strong winds, torrential rain, hail, or worse are always a possibility.

There is no mistaking a brown thrasher when you see one.  It's rich brown color, speckled breast, yellow eyes, and long tail feathers that whip about whenever it moves are its identifiying features.

I had never photographed an adult brown thrasher with its young until today.  The three birds shown below were attracted to the ground-level water tray that we provide near the bird bath.  They were drinking and later bathing in the small rectangular tray that was cut out from the bottom of a plastic 20 lb. Tidy Kats kitty litter container.

All  photos are taken from approximately 50 feet away through a window.  If movement behind the window pane is slow, there isn't much chance of scaring away birds or other animals.  The trade-off from this vantage point is inferior photo clarity caused by two  additional layers of glass and sometimes glare depending on the location of sunlight and shadows.

Lastly, you don't have to search for birds and animals--they come to you in a Mosquito-Free and Temperature Controlled Environment. After all, windows are made for looking out and providing a light source;  but generally not for looking in unless they are a storefront, etc.

June 19, 2024  Juneteenth -- A Poem by ChatGPt 4.o

Prompt:  "Compose a short poem about Juneteenth that is now observed as a national holiday in the U.S."

                         Juneteenth

On June's bright canvas, freedom's song unfurls,
Juneteenth we cherish, a tale of liberty's pearls.
From chains once broken, hearts now beat,
In a land where shadows and light finally meet.

Emancipation's dawn, long overdue,
A promise of hope in skies so blue.
We honor the past, the struggle, the pain,
In unity and love, let justice reign.

With joy and reverence, we gather and share,
Stories of strength, a history laid bare.
From Galveston's shores to every street,
Juneteenth's spirit, in us, complete.

June 16, 2024  Happy Father's Day -- A Poem by Google Generative AI:  Gemini

Prompt:  "Compose a short poem about honoring your father on Father's Day."

                       For Dad

Strong hands that held me when I cried,

A voice that soothed, a steady guide.

You taught me lessons, big and small,

My hero, Dad, you're best of all. 

June 8, 2024  Colors --  This post is for those who enjoy colors or work with them in some way 

The Pantone Color of the Year*  is   .  .  .

"The 2024 Color of the Year is PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz, a velvety, pinkish-orange shade. The Pantone Color Institute chose this color to reflect a desire for peace and respite during a time of global tension. It's meant to evoke feelings of warmth, happiness, and community joy." (click link above to view)

Also:

Benjamin Moore's Fresh Peach and Valspar's Pretty in Peach are very close to the softness of Pantone's Peach Fuzz. A brighter, more vibrant option is Benjamin Moore's Paradise Peach. Sherwin-Williams' Persimmon is a slightly darker version with a rich tangerine tone, January 10, 2024.  Source:  Google Search:  "Comparison of 2024 Pantone Color of the year Peach Fuzz with Sherwin-Williams Paint Color, Persimmon."

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The 2023 Color of the Year was PANTONE 18-1750 VIVA Magenta.  

"Pantone's Colour of The Year 2023, Viva Magenta 18-1750, vibrates with vim and vigour. It is a shade rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength."  (click link above to view)

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The 2022 Color of the Year was PANTONE 17-3938 Very Peri.

"Pantone's color of the year for 2022 is Very Peri, a periwinkle blue shade with a violet-red undertone. The official color number is 17-3938. Pantone describes Very Peri as a vibrant, joyous, and dynamic color that encourages creativity and imaginative expression. It's said to symbolize the global zeitgeist and the transition the world is undergoing. " (click link above to view)

___________________________

*Google Search Query:  What is the significance of the Pantone Color of the Year?  

Google Search Generative AI Response:

"Pantone's Color of the Year is a trend forecast and cultural reflection, selected by the Pantone Color Institute to encapsulate the current design and cultural trends. The chosen hue influences a variety of creative industries, including fashion, and can impact consumer purchasing decisions. "

June 6, 2024 Life Goes On -- Photography

The Sun is shining, the birds are singing, but we're experiencing another windy day.  The wind gusting to over 60 mph has brought down large tree limbs and scattered twigs and small branches.  Yet, life goes on.  Baby birds are out of their nests and find refuge beneath the trees. They patiently wait for their parents to feed them.

June 1, 2024 Inner Peace--an AI Overview

The Sun is shining and the birds are singing.  Today would be a good day to relax and reflect on the good things life has to offer.

Here is Google's AI Overview response to the query to define Inner Peace:

Inner peace is a state of calm, contentment, and acceptance, and being in harmony with yourself, others, and the world around you. It's not about eliminating challenges, but rather navigating through them with a tranquil and accepting mind. Inner peace can also be described as a state of physical and spiritual calm despite many stressors.

________________________________

A Lifetime can be measured by the succession of outdated Mayonaise Jars.

ThoughtsOfThomas Not Nostradamus

Updated: 06-29-2024, 06-24-2024, 06-23-2024, 06-19-2024, 06-17-2024, 06-16-2024, 06-14-2024, 06-11-2024, 06-10-2024, 06-09-2024, 06-08-2024, 06-07-2024, 06--06-2024, 06-04-2024, 06-03-2024, 06-01-2024.

May 27, 2024 Memorial Day 2024--Flag of the United States of America

May 20, 2024  Big Foot and UFO's--Microsoft CoPilot:  Image Creator (Text- to Image Generator)

May 15, 2024  Migratory Birds--Photography, Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Brown Thrasher

I've been anticipating the arrival of the Rose-breasted Grosbeaks.  One was seen at the bird feeder this morning which was three days later than last year (see May 12, 2023 post below).  They only spend a few days in our area and then continue on northward.  Their migratory path ranges over thousands of miles.  

A Brown Thrasher, another late arrival, was spotted yesterday.  Two weeks earlier, a pheasant joined a group of other regulars for lunch (see below),

May 14, 2024  Solar Storm--Google ImageFX (AI Test Kitchen Image-from-Text Generator) and GIMP (Photo Editor)

ImagFX was used to "Create an image of the Northern Lights 35mm film."  GIMP Photo Editor was used to make duplicates with minor changes in Hue, Shadows, Brightness, and Exposure. The Clone Tool, Smooth, and Distortion Filter--Pinch and Whirl--were also applied to the sky.

May 12, 2024  Happy Mother's Day

May 7, 2024  Has Artificial Intelligence Taken Over This Website?    These People Seem To Think So!

A I Images-from-Text were generated with Google ImageFX

May 4, 2024  Celebrating National Comic Book Day

Festivities abound at participating Comic Book Stores throughout the country  where visitors are given Free Comic Books and enjoy treats and beverages!   The industry has designated the first Saturday in May for its annual celebration.  Charitable events supporting worthy causes are also an integral part of National Comic Book Day.

May 1, 2024  Artifical Intelligence (A-I Update)--Microsoft Image Creator

Check out the updates on the Artificial Intelligence Page linked in the left side bar.  Here are three examples. 

Updated:  05-27-2024, 05-25-2024, 05-24-2024, 05-23-2024, 05-22-2024, 05-21-2024, 05-20-2024, 05-19-2024, 05-18-2024, 05-17-2024, 05-16-2024, 05-15-2024, 05-14-2024, 05-13-2024, 05-12-2024, 05-11-2024, 05-10-2024, 05-09-2024, 05-08-2024, 05-07-2024, 05-06-2024, 05-05-2024, 05-04-2024, 05-03-2024, 05-02-2024, 05-01-2024.

April 8, 2024  Solar Eclipse--GIMP

Unfortunately, our part of the country was not in the path of today's solar eclipse.  Here is a GIMP layers rendering with the Sun's Corona, and the sky in the background.   The Moon is in the foreground which, of course, isn't illuminated on our side.

Four Layers were applied to compose the image:  the Moon, Sun, corona, planets, stars, and darkened sky.

1. The moon in the foreground--a black circle drawn on a transparent layer (transparent background).

2.  Another transparent layer was drawn with the Sun drawn slightly larger than the Moon.

3. A third transparent layer contained a second, slightly larger Sun with a feathered edge to extend the Corona but leave a sharp definition between the feathered edge and the outer edge of the Sun as defined by the Sun in the previous layer.

4. Lastly, a solid  background  layer included randomly placed and sized planets and stars.  Smaller stars were created with a GIMP Noise Filter.  Small paint brushes were used to draw the larger planets and brightest stars.  The Cloning Tool was used to randomly scatter star clusters.

Layers were merged and saved as a jpeg image.

April 1, 2024  April Fools   🤪

Updated:  04-30-2024, 04-29-2024, 04-28-2024, 04-27-2024, 04-26-2024, 04-25-2024, 04-24-2024, 04-23-2024, 04-22-2024, 04-18-2024, 04-12-2024, 04-10-2024, 04-08-22024, 04-07-2024, 04-04-2024, 04-01-2024.

March 9, 2024  Partridges and Black Cat--Photography

A stray cat, new to this area, was attempting to stalk a pair of partridges in our back yard.  Sorry, kitty, those partridges could see you coming from a mile away.

March 8, 2024  Winter Continues--Photography

Winter has returned once again after another foot of fresh snow.  A frozen pond in our back yard created by an early melt provides an excellent surface for feeding the critters.

In March there is more warmth in the Sun that creates interesting icycle formations.  Here is a closeup of one that has broken or melted off close to the ground.

Finally, one of four kittens is shown resting on a heated cat bed in our garage.  Over the winter, they have grown from  5- or 6-week old kittens into strong young cats.  Three have gained our trust, but one is still leery of humans.  They spend the night in our garage but usually leave before daylight.

There is always hard catfood for them to eat and water in a heated water bowl.   In addition, they get plenty of canned catfood and tuna treats.  The female cat below has chosen to stay in the garage for the past week--she could be pregnant.

By spring we hope to be able to find good homes for all of them.  We have reached our quota for housing cats, but that is the reality we must face.  Not everyone cares about the perils of stray cats, but a few of us place a high priority on providing food and shelter.

March 3, 2024  Local wildlife--Photography

February was relatively mild where we have had two thaws that left most streets and fields snow free.  That is a good thing for travelers, but little moisture during the spring melt is not so good for agriculture.  Today, Mother Nature has provided about ten inches of snow with more on the way.

Rabbits, birds, and squirrels know where to find food.  We make it easy for them and in return they liven up our backyard with their songs and presence.  Here are some photos taken in late February and today.

March 1, 2024  Peer into the Past--Family Search.Org and Google Maps

Family History  or Genealogy is a fascinating subject area.  Fortunately, other individuals on both sides of our family had the foresight to document their lineage.  With this newfound knowledge, it is possible to piece together the past.  The following post contains a bit of how the family history came together along with anecdotal remarks on what life must have been like before the days of the automobile.

Below is a condensed version of today's post.  For a more detailed account of my personal experience using FamilySearch and Google Maps click here for the pdf file.

FamilySearch.org is a free service that allows people to research their family history.  It is easy to set up an account.  Sign In is also easy (you can sign in using your Google Account).

With FamilySearch.org I have been able to verify that the first 500 or 600 hundred years of  my Great Uncle's family tree were fairly accurate.  To what degree, I am not certain; however, names and dates matched with resources returned by FamilySearch.  

After moving up the family tree about 20 generations from my own, the time line became sketchy as one could expect.  There is still another 700 years listed on our family tree, but I'm not going to punish myself trying to go any further.  With DNA testing, many gaps could be filled on both sides of the family.

A cousin on the maternal side of our family researched family records in Europe, Canada, and the United States.  She utilized the internet in later years but had  also visited research centers as well as distant relatives throughout the United States and Canada.

Lastly, using FamilySearch.Org, I was also able to connect my wife's family tree next to my own that dates back to the 1400's.  Everything popped up on screen as soon as I entered her maiden name.  Debbie and I want to thank all of the contributors who have made this project possible.

There are more branches to be added to the tree.  Those will be left for the newer generations who follow.

Updated:  03-28-2024, 03-27-2024, 03-26-2024, 03-31-2024, 03-24-2024, 03-23-2024, 03-20-2024, 03-17-2024, 03-16-2024, 03-15-2024, 03-13-2024, 03-11-2024, 03-09-2024, 03-08-2024, 03-07-2024, 03-05-2024, 03-04-2024, 03-03-2024 03-01-2024.

March 1, 2024  Peer into the Past--Family Search.Org and Google Maps

Family History  or Genealogy is a fascinating subject area.  Fortunately, other individuals on both sides of our family had the foresight to document their lineage.  With this newfound knowledge, it is possible to piece together the past.  The following post contains a bit of how the family history came together along with anecdotal remarks on what life must have been like before the days of the automobile.

Below is a condensed version of today's post.  For a more detailed account of my personal experience using FamilySearch and Google Maps click here for the pdf file.

FamilySearch.org is a free service that allows people to research their family history.  It is easy to set up an account.  Sign In is also easy (you can sign in using your Google Account).

With FamilySearch.org I have been able to verify that the first 500 or 600 hundred years of  my Great Uncle's family tree were fairly accurate.  To what degree, I am not certain; however, names and dates matched with resources returned by FamilySearch.  

After moving up the family tree about 20 generations from my own, the time line became sketchy as one could expect.  There is still another 700 years listed on our family tree, but I'm not going to punish myself trying to go any further.  With DNA testing, many gaps could be filled on both sides of the family.

A cousin on the maternal side of our family researched family records in Europe, Canada, and the United States.  She utilized the internet in later years but had  also visited research centers as well as distant relatives throughout the United States and Canada.

Lastly, using FamilySearch.Org, I was also able to connect my wife's family tree next to my own that dates back to the 1400's.  Everything popped up on screen as soon as I entered her maiden name.  Debbie and I want to thank all of the contributors who have made this project possible.

There are more branches to be added to the tree.  Those will be left for the newer generations who follow.

Updated:  03-28-2024, 03-27-2024, 03-26-2024, 03-31-2024, 03-24-2024, 03-23-2024, 03-20-2024, 03-17-2024, 03-16-2024, 03-15-2024, 03-13-2024, 03-11-2024, 03-09-2024, 03-08-2024, 03-07-2024, 03-05-2024, 03-04-2024, 03-03-2024 03-01-2024.

February 19, 2024  President's Day

The day was initially established in 1879 to celebrate the birthday of Washington. For many the holiday was simply called "Washington's Birthday," which is still how the federal government refers to it, according to the Department of State. Over the years, the holiday has expanded in the minds of the nation. 

Source:  Google Search  History of President's Day

February 14, 2024  Happy Valentines Day!

February 1, 2024  Artifical Intelligence (A .I.) -- Website Update

Check out the latest addition to this website.  A new page, Artificial Intelligence, has been added to the left sidebar.  My initial observation, comparisons, and some experimentation with ChatGPT 3.5 and GoogleBard are discussed.  It's exciting and in some ways frightening to see how powerful A. I.  has become.

Thus far, I have generated a lot of  text-based webpage content in a relatively short amount of time.

Tom

Updated:  02-24-2024, 02-19-2024, 02-18-2024, 02-17-2024, 02-16-2024, 02-15-2024, 02-14-2024, 02-13-2024, 02-12-2024, 02-11-2024, 02-09-2024, 02-08-2024, 02-0702024, 02-06-2024, 02-05-2024, 02-04-2024, 02-02-2024, 02-01-2024

January 17, 2024   Hungry Birds--Photography

During the cold snap we've been feeding the birds and squirrels 3 times a day--11:00 a.m., 4:00 p.m, and after most of them have roosted for the night, around 5:30 p.m at this time of the year.  A portion of the third feeding will be eaten by rabbits during the night, but most will be ready for the birds and squirrels at dawn.

The quantity of bird seed and critter/squirrel food will vary, but during sub zero days we've been putting out double rations.  There seems to be no limit to their appetite and they are always ready for an easy meal.    Hopefully what they get will supplement their diet gleaned from trees frozen vegetation and exposed grasses and soil, if any.

January 13, 2024   Tom's Weather Today--Local Weather Update and Survival Tips

Northern North Dakota.  It is absolutely too cold to spend much time outside today.  At noon it was twice as cold as yesterday.  The current temperature is -26 degrees F. below Zero, plus it's windy.  The blowing snow has turned into a fine powder that packs like hard sand.  It's the type of snow that blocks can be cut to make igloos.  Tomorrow should be warmer if the forecast is correct.

In weather like this fingers turn numb within seconds if wearing only a typical pair of knit gloves--Multiple layers of everything including a face covering are necessary if one needs to be outdoors for a few minutes or more.  Humans and domesticated animals are not eqiupped to tolerate these extremes.

Winter Survival Tips.  After a few seconds of exposure, fingers begin to sting and then turn numb.  The best way to deal with the numbing if wear a light pair of gloves is to immediately pull your fingers out of the finger holes and form a fist in the lower part of the glove.  Alternatively, if you're bare handed, you can cup your hands together and blow into them and put them in your pockets.   Go inside if possible to warm up.

Depending on the extent of exposure, thawing fingers can be extremely painful.  Here's what I have done over the years:

• Dip your hands into a basin of room temperature or luke-warm water.  This seems to reduce the level of pain the best.

or 

If water is not an option:

• You can also cross your arms and put your hands under your armpits and apply pressure--yes, that will help.

• I have also briefly rubbed my hands together 6 to 8 inches above a kitchen stove burner or in front of a space heater.

• if in a car, rub both hands together above the windshield defroster or heater vent blowing warm air.

• Carefully use packets of chemical activated hand warmers kept in the console, glove box, or in a winter survival kit.  Important:   sleeping bags and winter survival kits should be kept inside the car, not in the trunk in case of a breakdown or become stranded due to blizzards or running off the road into a snow-filled ditch, etc.    If the vehicle becomes buried in snow or ices over, the trunk may not be accessible.  

• Never venture outside during a blizzard even if you're teathered to a rope.  Wind gusts and blasts of blowing snow may become so powerful that breathing or walking through deep snow may become impossible.  People will become disoriented in Zero visibility conditions.  It is strongly advised that people remain inside their vehicles if they become stranded.

Disclaimer:  I'm not sure if any or all of the hand warming methods described above are sound medical advise, but they have worked for me.  Severe frostbite and hypothermia require prompt medical attention.

Well, it could get worse.  Below is an archived post from 5 years ago.

January 12, 2024   It's Cold Outside--Photography

Part I:  Birds and Squirrels.  Several Hundred sparrows, 30-50 collared doves, 4--6 blue Jays, a few nuthatches, and four blackbirds (see below) are regulars at our bird and squirrel feeding stations this winter.  It's currently -13 degrees F. below Zero at Noon today.  Last night was much colder with a wind chill advisory.  The real cold weather will be arriving tomorrow and the next day.

Part II:  Stray and Homeless Cats.  Also, our outside doorway entrance to the garage is propped open just enough to allow stray and homeless cats an opportunity to get in out of the cold, have something to eat, or to sleep in relative comfort.  To accommodate the  mother cats with kittens born in late fall, we have set up  little cat apartments--four with electric heated cat pads and several other unheated cardboard boxes insulated with formed styrofoam packing, old blankets, and cat beds  (see second group of images below).

We also provide a heated water bowl and a large kitty litter box that gets plenty of use.  Cat toys that are strewn on the garage floor are always in a different place by morning.  Some larger cats visit throughout the daylight hours for food, while the little ones with their mothers usually show up at sunset and leave just before the sun comes up.  We don't know where they go, but we have seen them jumping down the storm sewer drains on the street.

January 1, 2024   Happy New Year--Season's Greetings

Tom

Updated:  01-28-2024, 01-27-2024, 01-26-2024, 01-25-2024, 01-23-2024, 01-18-2024, 01-17-2024, 01-15-2024, 01-13-2024, 01-12-2024, 01-07-2024, 01-02-2024, 01-01-2024.

December 25, 2023   Merry Christmas -- Digital Art

December 1, 2023   Partridges--  Photography

A flock of partridges were feeding on bird seed and critter food in our backyard today just before sunset.  Low light conditions and my lack of camera skills produced poor quality images.  This was the first sighting of partridge I have seen and photographed within the city limits.  Maybe they'll come back tomorrow since the weather has been warm for this time of year with all previous snow melted.

November 23, 2023   Thanksgiving -- Why is Thanksgiving in the U.S. Celebrated on a Thursday.

November 11, 2023   Veterans Day--The Eleventh Hour of the Eleventh Day of the Eleventh Month

Veterans Day falls on a Saturday this year, meaning some offices will be closed on Friday.

Veterans Day falls on a Saturday this year, which is bound to cause some confusion. This is one of the few unique holidays that is locked to a specific day:  November 11.   Google

Also referred to as Armistice Day by old timers  (Pre WWII).

An armistice is a formal agreement to end hostilities. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, 1918, fighting in WWI officially stopped after Germany signed an armistice agreement with Allies earlier in the day.   Google

Today, it is celebrated in honor of those who have served.

Image Source:  U.S. Air Force 

Tom

Updated:  11-24-2023, 11-23-2023, 11-22,2021, 11-21-2023, 11-12-2023, 11-11-2023, 11-09-2023, 11-02-2023.

October 31, 2023  Trick  or  Treat -- Happy Halloween

October 26, 2023  Early Winter Snow--Photography

October 9, 2023  Columbus Day--National Holidays

The day originally designated as Columbus Day is also used to observe other signficant aspects of our culture and history in the Americas.

The link below explains that the day on which Columbus Day falls not only commemorates the 1492 event, but depending on where you live, may instead, include other celebrations or observances.
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Columbus Day--Wikipedia

October 1, 2023  Digital Online Resources--Historical Newspapers

North Dakota's Historical Newspapers   Description:  This search engine is amazing. All you need to do is enter a key word search consisting of one or more fields, choose the criteria (And/Or; All, Exact, Any, None) and specify the date range by month, day, and year, e.g.  1/1/1930 to 12/31/1935.

Be prepared to spend a few Sunday afternoons browsing through the returned search results.  It is probably best to limit the search by entering a date range of a few years rather than several decades at a time. 

Like present day newspapers, it's all there in black and white.  You will read about some things that were never mentioned in your History Books.

The newspaper archive contains many digitized small town weekly newspapers that have closed in addition to Weekly and Daily newspapers that are in operation today.  Some daily newspapers have complete issues since the late 1800's in North Dakota, a relatively new state.

At your option you can just browse, or download the entire newspaper page in PDF format, or do a jpeg screen capture (Windows Snipping Tool, e.g.) of a particular article.  You could also jot down the newspaper's name, date, and page, article title, and return to it at a later date.  This is a great way to experience what it was like 100 years ago in your community and to learn more about your ancestors.

Whether doing scholarly research, a genealogical study, or are just curious, you may be suprised at what you can find.

Other states have similar online Historical Newspaper archives as well.
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Other Digital Resources:

North Dakota Digital Horizons    Description:  There are many Aerial views of communities as they appeared 50 years ago, steam locomotives, early automobiles, old store fronts, and city streets, for example.  Search by City.

The National Archives

Digital Public Library of America

Updated:  10-31-2023, 10-26-2023, 10-22-2023, 10-19-2023, 10-16-2023, 10-10-2023, 10-08-2023, 10-01-2023

September 4, 2023  Labor Day 2023--National Holiday.

Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the first Monday in September to honor and recognize the American labor movement and the works and contributions of laborers to the development and achievements of the United States. [1]  [2]  [3]  The three-day weekend it falls on is called Labor Day Weekend (source:  Wikipedia).

Updated:  09-24-2023, 09-23,2023, 09-20-2023, 09-19-2023, 09-18-2023, 09-16-2023, 09-15-2023, 09-13-2023, 09-12-2023, 09-11-2023, 09-10-2023, 09-07-2023, 09-04-2023, 09-03-2023.

August 1, 2023  Another Page for SketchUp--The SketchUp Projects Page is full.

SketchUp Projects II is the new Menu Link for Current and Future SketchUp Project Posts. Click the link to see what's happening.

Updated:  08-31-2023, 08-21-2023, 08-20-2023, 08-19-2023, 08-19-2023, 08-18-2023, 08-14-2023, 08-13-2023, 08-11-2023, 08-09-2023, 08-08-2023, 08-06-2023, 08-05-2023, 08-01-2023, 08-03-2024.

July 4, 2023  Celebrate the Fourth of July.

Have a happy and safe Fourth.

Updated:  07-30-2023, 07-29-2023, 07-28-2023, 07-27-2023, 07-25-2023, 06-1`-1012, 07-16-2023, 07-12-2023, 07-11-2023, 07-08-2023, 07-04-2023, 07-03-2023, 07-01-2023.

June 19, 2023  Juneteenth--National Holiday in the U.S.

Read more about Juneteenth, its origin and history, at the PBS News Hour website.

June 18, 2023  Father's Day--Remembering Dad

June 14, 2023  Today is Flag Day--Commenerating the Adoption of the Flag of the United States, June 14, 1777.

June 12, 2023  Potted Plants--Photography

Updated:  06-30-2023, 06-29-2023, 06-26-2023, 06-23-2023, 06-19-2023, 06-18-2023, 06-17-2023, 06-16-2023, 06-14-2023, 06-12-2023, 06-07-2023, 06-04-2023.

May 29, 2023.  Memorial Day.

Many families have experienced the sorrow of losing loved ones who perished in wars.  We, the survivors, must not forget their sacrifice.

Memorial Day continues to be a solemn time in our household, local community, and throughout the United States.  This is a tribute to the fallen heroes.

Symbolism of the Poppy

The Poppy Story

May 14, 2023.  Happy Mother's Day. 

May 12, 2023.  Migratory Birds--Photography. 

The past few days have seen the arrival of a few species of birds on there way to their nesting grounds.  A Brown Thrasher, Gray Catbird,  and  American Goldfinch were spotted yesterday.  They did not stay long enough to film.  I have never witnessed thrashers, catbirds, and gold finches feeding their young, so I assume they go elsewhere to raise their families.  Heavily populated blackbird in our area may be driving them away.

It has been raining steady since late afternoon yesterday and into today.  Almost like clockwork, the Rose Breasted Grosbeaks made their appearance.  I had a suspicision they had also arrived yesterday because their loud distinctive song could be heard in the distance.  See images taken today around Noon and near sunset.

Several Baltimore Orioles visited the bird feeders just before sundown.   They have been infrequent visitors in our yard.  Apparently, fresh food in the feeders attracted them.

Here is a link to more images showing backyard activity on this rainy day.  Various birds--GrosBeaks, Baltimore Orioles,-- and two unidentified smaller birds along with several squirrels:  Birds and Squirrels.

May 1, 2023.  May Day--Celebrates Seasonal Change, Renewal, and the Approaching Summer. 

Geographically, May Day is celebrated in the Northern Hemisphere to mark the coming of summer.  Conversely, the Southern Hemisphere will experience the beginnning of winter. 

Lattitudes near and around the Canadian/U.S. border and elswhere around the globe, will experience marked seasonal change that turns what appears to be barren frozen wastelands into fertile lush green forests, valleys, and plains.

In more primal ways, May 1 signals us that we have endured another winter and are now ready to go forward.  Historically, It has been veiwed as a gift from Nature.  Politically and religiously, there are ramifications as to why it is not celebrated openly in the U.SA or by some fatihs.  Personally, it is my favorite time of the year to be outside to enjoy the fresh air and sunlight.

Updated:  05-30-2023, 05-29-2023, 05-27-2023, 05-26-2023, 05-25-2023, 05-22-2023, 05-21-2023, 05-20-2023, 05-19-2023, 05-18-2023, 05-16-2023, 05-15-2023, 05-14-2023, 05-12-2023, 05-08-2023, 05-02-2023, 05-01-2023.

April 9, 2023.  Happy Easter!    Link to SketchUp Model  Easter Bunny in 3D (requires SketchUp to open).

April 7, 2023.  Squirrels, Rabbits and Pheasants--Photography.  During the day squirrels are very active while rabbits tend to be more active during the evening hours.

The images below were taken over a three day period.  They show several of many squirrels that romp in the back yard throughout the day.   Also pictured are three pheasants.  A fourth pheasant, a larger rooster, spotted me and hid behind the hedge.  Later, he was back. The rooster was quite vocal and crowed loudly to announce his presence.

This spring a record nine squirrels have been counted turning our back yard into a mad/fun house.  Their movement through the trees is amazing.  Some even do forward somersaults and 360 degree spins when playing in the snow.  The cold weather doesn't seem to affect their activity too much as long as they get plenty to eat. 

The sparrows in some of the photos will sometimes number in the hundreds and they too are attracted by the plentiful bird food and sheltered areas.

Just before sunset and at sunrise rabbits and pheasants can be observed peacefully sharing food that is common to both species. Yesterday at dusk, several pheasants and a rabbit were nose to nose eating bird and critter food.  The rabbit moved among the pheasants like it was part of the family, and would occasionally hop over them in a playful manner.

 Low light conditions affected image quality at dawn and dusk.

April 1, 2023.  April Fools!

Updated:  04-25-2023, 04-22-2023, 04-21-2023, 04-18-2023, 04-17-2023, 04-16-2023, 04-15-2023, 04-13-2023, 04-10-2023, 04-09-2023, 04-08-2023, 04-07-2023, 04-03-2023, 04-01-2023.

March 31, 2023  A Visit from Jack Frost--Photography.

The end of March has arrived and evening temperatures continue to dip below zero.  The contrast between cold and the warming rays of the Sun shows the beauty of Nature at its finest.   There is something magical about frost that sometimes catches the eye.  It often goes unnoticed and sometimes cursed when it's time to defrost or scrape car windows.

Below, images capture frost and how the morning Sun sparkles through a window pane,  through tree branches, and atop a frosty snow bank. 

March 29, 2023  Creating Firefox Browser Add-ons--Ten Year Anniversary.

Creating web content has been a hobby of mine for a long time.  It was exactly 10 years ago that I posted my first Theme Add-on to Firefox.  In previous years, they were called Personas (1).

Themes and Personas consisted of a decorative section across the top of the browser and an optional narrower strip of matching design at the bottom.

In total I have published 122 Themes/Personas covering a wide range of subjects.  Many included photography and Sketchup 3D designs.  Several included an animated piano keyboard--They are still operable.  See images below.

Here's the link to all of my Firefox add-ons:  You don't have to be a Firefox user to browse the inventory:  Cubbaroo2.
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(1) Those originally posted as Personas date back to November 23, 2009.  For a look at my personal collection, here is a local link (complete image):  Personas  (PDF file).