Treasure Island Chronicles

Love in Bloom?

2012-01-26T17:55:00.003-05:00

I looked out the window toward the Elks yesterday to find two eagles on the ice! They couldn't have been more than fifty yards from the sea wall. I grabbed my peanut camera and found they translated to two specs. These little cameras have a perpetual wide angle lens that isn't worth a darn when it comes to birds. In my desperation, I held the camera to my binocular lens and the two kind of canceled each other out. Voila--a picture--of sorts-of the eagles.

I think they may be an item--as they took to grooming each other after the photo was taken.

If You Break an Egg....

2012-01-22T18:14:00.002-05:00

OK. Sometimes I get my old sayings pretty scrambled--but I think one goes..."If you break an egg, then go make an omelet."

Along those lines. We find ourselves iced in today. The ice can't quite reliably hold our weight. So--if you can't go ashore...make a snow man!

The Ice

2012-01-16T17:48:00.004-05:00

For a time, we were able to keep a passage open to the shore. Now it's so many ice cubes.

Fissures form as the ice pack attempts to make its way to the dam. Treasure Island serves as an obstacle, so the pack cracks.

The ice is problematic this year. The last two winters were very bitter, but they were great when it came to walking ashore. The refrigerator door slammed weeks before Christmas and we were pedestrians until April.

This year, we have the variability of a mild winter. We have been chopping our way through with the boat. Now we have to hold a bit, hoping to get a bit more ice for walking. I threw the mushroom anchor on the ice pack--and it bounced! Unfortunately, I weigh a bit more than an anchor, so we have to wait. Of course, rain is forecast for this evening. Back to open water?

The Eagle Strikes

2012-01-10T09:23:00.001-05:00

Lots of action for what started as a clear sunrise to a peaceful winter's day. It was the great clamor that alerted my wife to this morning's events. She looked toward the Elks from the island to see--and hear--a great cloud of crows hovering over a black area of ice. As she pulled her binoculars for a closer look--up from the multitude rose a Bald Eagle with the remains of a crow--feathers still flying from the carcass. The crows followed for a ways--but kept a respectful distance. The eagle took his position in his favorite tree on the point near White Creek, complete with the remains of the crow, and the other crows retreated to our point deck tree to continue their noisy confab.
Then, after a short time, they all flew to the feathered pile on the ice where the deed was done. Here they formed a circle around the feathers--not picking at them--but as if in solemn observance they formed groups of four to six and began a long period of clucking. After a time, they all dispersed, and we have reclaimed our quiet winter's morning.

The Ice is Here

2012-01-08T10:12:00.004-05:00

Swans on the way to Big Island.

On the way back to Rain Creek.

Have you ever left your home for a long trip, or closed it for the Winter? If you do like I do, the last thing before you leave you'll take a last tour of all the rooms.

Sometimes I think the swans are the same. They almost never venture from the South Shore and Rain Creek--save for just before the lake ices over. At that time they take a tour of the "rooms" at Big Island and return. The last two winters they made their tour precisely one day before the lake froze solid. This time around they made the trip a couple of days early. Today, I held a 1/4 inch chunk of the lake's surface in my hand. However, I think we will be back to open water by day's end. I wonder if they'll be back?

The Coots are also confused by the sudden freeze. They have congregated on our shore side lot. I almost never see them out of the water--but the sudden icing left them with no other option.

If you look closely around here in winter--you will never find a dull moment.

EAGLES!!!

2012-01-03T21:31:00.002-05:00

We now have two Bald Eagles working the Eastern shore between the Elks and the county ramp. One plucked something from the lake--couldn't tell whether is was a duck or a fish--and flew to the tree on the point halfway between the Elks and White Creek. We never get tired of watching them. Here's hoping a nest follows.

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T12:32:00.003-05:00

There always seems to be a moment on a cloudy day, when the sun finds a place to shine through. Maybe that makes a good New Year's wish. May the sun shine through for all your days in 2012.

First Snow

2011-12-27T12:29:00.004-05:00

We add some lights to the flag pole for the holidays.

The first snow of any substance. It's been a pretty forgiving winter so far.

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T09:43:00.001-05:00

With very best wishes from Treasure Island.

The Birdy Bush

2011-12-18T10:44:00.007-05:00

It is the lady of the island's habit to put a row of sunflower seeds on the railing of the kitchen deck at the beginning of each day.

We have a flock of sparrows on the island that is quite dispersed among the many trees. That is, until they hear the call "birdy, birdy, birdy." Then they all fly to the bush at the kitchen deck railing to watch eagerly as the morning's snack is laid out.

I could only catch a representative few with my little camera. Often the center of the bush will hold another twenty or so.

The Squirrels are always happy to help with the clean up.

The Deck is Done

2011-12-07T16:07:00.004-05:00

Finished! Little did we know there would be so much foundation work to do. Many of the support boards along the sea wall had to be replaced and shot with new anchors. Nearly 800 pounds of concrete and five new posts were installed to shore up the center sections.

The point deck should be good for thirty more years. If only I could say that about myself!

Back to Basics

2011-11-29T09:33:00.004-05:00

We love our place. In the summer it is grand, with its huge piers and motorized boats. However, my favorite time is the "off" season. I've never had the mechanical ability to repair boat motors, and it takes an accomplished crew to bring the big piers in and out. It is good to have a time of year when you aren't dependent on others.

Now, it's just me, my wife, and a little row boat. Nice and simple. In a little while the row boat will give way to the winter kayaks for moving across the fresh ice (propelled by Phillips screwdrivers in lieu of paddles). When the ice is thick enough--foot power will be the means of coming and going.

That is the wonder of living on an island. It will not allow you to become a couch potato. Every day you are compelled (if you want to get your mail) to get out of your cozy home and go forth into the wonder of winter. Every day there are new patterns in the ice and different birds coming and going. There is the brisk chill of a fresh winter day and the incredible brightness of the ice field that is the lake.

Here's to a good winter!

Leaves, Leaves, Leaves

2011-11-14T15:50:00.003-05:00

Just about done I'm happy to say. There's a lot of work to raking leaves, but it keeps us in shape, and we wouldn't sacrifice a single tree to ease the burden.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T13:33:00.002-04:00

From our home to your home. May you have a great Autumn!

Fall Comes to Big Island

2011-10-13T23:24:00.003-04:00

Big Island sits off the front door of Treasure Island on Lake Manitou. Here we see a fine start to Autumn--leaves all aglow in the waning light of a beautiful Indian Summer day.

Going Going Gone

2011-09-13T23:43:00.001-04:00

The Point Deck was a place of good times and happy days to so many people over the years. It's seen birthdays, weddings, and fishing contests. It's been a place to relax for a multitude of guests. Now it is time for a redo. The foundation needs a bit of work. Wood can only last for so long in a lake environment. The replacement deck stands as a stack of 98 sixteen foot boards on the sea wall. Soon we will have a new platform and a new cycle of memories.

The Hibiscus are Back

2011-07-25T22:54:00.002-04:00

Each year they seem prettier than the year before. Enjoy!

Fishing in the Front Yard

2011-06-24T00:02:00.002-04:00

If you're looking for a trophy catch--we recommend you take the pontoon to the head of the lake, or White Creek. However, we have a young angler proving once again that fishing can be fun from the front pier.

Spring Storm

2011-05-23T19:22:00.002-04:00

This is the time of year for the crash and bang of thunderstorms--bumping through quickly in a whoosh of sound and fury. Here is a picture from a twilight storm. The spring leaves seem to glow as the light works its way through a break in the clouds.

About Those Eggs You Saw Earlier....

2011-05-15T17:36:00.004-04:00

Two out of three robin's eggs have hatched. It's a tough world out there. We keep the place predator free--so they have a shot. Right now the cold rain is coming down. We're keeping our fingers crossed.

Spring Comes to Treasure Island

2011-05-08T17:30:00.002-04:00

Here it is--at last! Happy Mother's Day. Bring on the good weather!

Goose Truce

2011-05-06T12:49:00.002-04:00

For a few beautiful days every Spring--we allow the newly formed goose families a bit of time to promenade their young about the island--free from the threat of predators. Soon, though, it will be business as usual as they can be pretty hard on a yard.

An Easter Update

2011-04-29T22:25:00.003-04:00

Edith has brought us a nice Spring gift. Seven new arrivals. The last from the egg had a real struggle--we thought she was a goner. But with lots of prodding from mom, she made it to the water's edge and tonight she is just one of the gang.

HAPPY EASTER

2011-04-24T10:10:00.002-04:00

From Edith, the Treasure Island Goose, (Bert is on the night shift)

The Bald Eagle Returns

2011-04-19T08:34:00.004-04:00

The morning is off with a bang. We were having the morning cup of coffee and looking out over the front yard when the bald Eagle appeared--wham--on the lawn near the flag pole. We were thunderstruck at his instant appearance, and it took a moment or two to choose between the binoculars and the camera (sorry, it was the binoculars). He hesitated a moment and then took flight. It was then that we realized he had something rather large in his grasp. He flew effortlessly to the tree at the point and commenced his own version--I suppose--of morning refreshment. It took quite a bit of binocular gazing to even guess at the hapless victim. There were feathers--and we know the yard had blackbirds visiting--so that is our best guess.

The visit was capped in a most unusual way. We heard the alarm of a goose--and in came a very agitated goose right for the eagle. Most surprising. The goose won out in this confrontation--driving the eagle from his breakfast, and harrying him all the way toward the airport. We are now left with quite a pile of entrails on the branch at the point tree. I'll have to figure a way to get at them before they become a fly hatchery.

A most unusual beginning to a day on Treasure Island.

PS Two hours have passed. I love it when procrastination works! We now have a very large crow at the point tree finishing off what the Eagle left behind. Nothing goes to waste in the natural world.

PPS It is now evening and the remains of the remains fell from the limb to the top of the sea wall. All that was left was a beak and a spine. We can now see that this was a Coot. He was distinguished by the lure that was firmly driven through his beek--probably why he was in the yard instead of on the water. It was one of those worm lures--probably left snagged in a lily pad until our friend encountered it. Nature does have a way of weeding out the weak.

Kayaks Rule

2011-04-14T15:34:00.003-04:00

Well, the lake is stirring, but not the big boats at the moment. We do have the bass boats, and we even saw our first waterskier over the weekend. However, the lake is mostly calm and free of boat wakes at this time of year--and the more timid forms of water fowl are still easily reached by kayak. We were out this morning and found white and grey heron, mute swans, lots of mud hens, and geese everywhere as they manned their nests on the south shore. The lily pads are still forming just under the surface. A perfect day to glide about and sample the new found Spring.

White Pelicans

2011-03-21T17:53:00.002-04:00

My favorite memory from my first sailing trip to Mexico from San Franciso has to do with arrival at Puerto Vallarta. It was a fairly tough sail, so I kind of staggered to shore (you loose your land legs after a couple of weeks) and found myself a recliner on the beach. I opened a Corona and stared at the sky--just in time to see this amazing formation of Pelicans fly overhead. Not your normal kind of gray and dingy pelicans from San Francisco--but a group of snow white and amazing pelicans from the Pacific.

Imagine my delight last year when I spotted the same beautiful creatures on Lake Manitou. Now, we have a report via the Rochester Sentinel that a flock has come to visit us today. They are passing through--but what a pleasure to know they are here. They are presently in Rain Creek, but we're hoping for a visit on Manitou.

Sunrise on Open Water

2011-03-18T10:34:00.002-04:00

Well, we had our first "Spring" day yesterday. A high of 72 degrees. A nice break from winter. Spring comes in fits and starts in the Midwest. Lots of cold days to come--but also lots of sunshine. As a wise man once said, "It takes a Winter spent to truly appreciate the Spring."

Strangers Passing Through

2011-03-15T12:34:00.004-04:00

We have two loons making themselves at home on the lake. We only enjoy them for a brief time. They like their water cold! They are on their way north. They are under the water as much as they are on top of it. You will seldom see them on shore as their bodies are so long--and their legs set so far back--that they can just barely walk on land. They don't seem to sing when they are in transit. Their call was one of the great memories of my fishing trips to Quebec--but there's not so much as a peep around Lake Manitou.

A note on the photographs of birds for this blog. They are off the internet. My peanut camera just can't do justice to the birds. Back in the old days I had a 500mm lens--and that just barely got the job done.

Of Open Water, Sandhill Cranes, and Swans

2011-03-08T14:09:00.003-05:00

OK. Spring certainly isn't here yet. But today we have open water to the shore. It took a little persuasion with a sledge hammer here and there, but we now travel by boat and kayak.

The day prior I was greeted by a pair of Mute Swans just off the southwest side of the island. They were here the day before the lake froze--and they returned to say hello the day the lake opened. Soon they will be back to their more familiar haunts at the Manitou headwaters.

More amazing for us--the Sandhill cranes are loosing some of their shyness this year. Before now, I only saw them flying overhead, or standing at the headwaters of rain creek. Today, there were three cranes walking about the remains of the ice field, halfway between our island and Rose's English Cottage on the shore. To watch these birds take flight, is to see one of nature's marvels. How does a body that big ever get airborne! I am reminded of the military cargo planes lumbering off the runway at Travis air base. If you hear a steady warbling sound--look high up in the sky and you may catch a glimpse of them.

Keep the faith--Spring can't be far behind!

Twilight for the Ice

2011-02-15T10:56:00.003-05:00

There is now a great pile of slush atop the ice pack that is Lake Manitou. Warm weather is forecast, and soon we will return to rippling waves of water. Here is a picture as the sun sets on the last of the winter's ice.

Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

2011-02-10T09:05:00.002-05:00

It's 16 below zero this morning. The sun is out in all its glory. At this temperature, and with the bright, bright sunlight, the super-chilled snow appears as if coated with a carpet of tiny diamonds. So beautiful to look at--though I think we'll postpone the morning walk a bit.

Jack Frost

2011-02-07T08:23:00.003-05:00

Frosty has been busy lately. Here's a view through the upstairs' window. Jack doesn't like the thermopane on the main floor--but he has a ball upstairs.

OK--Humongous

2011-02-04T09:20:00.002-05:00

I have an old sailing buddy who was fond of saying, "Life is a word-eating contest." On my earlier post you may have noticed that I said we never had humongous snow--just a lot of accumulation over winter. I stand corrected as of last Wednesday--as you can see. Here is a picture from Main Street in town.

Snowfall

2011-01-29T17:36:00.002-05:00

We are mercifully out of the Great Lakes lake effect snow belt--so we never get a humongous amount at one time. However, as the termperature seldom strays above freezing in the winter, we do find quite a bit on the ground about this time. Here are some pictures. The point in winter--for those of you who have enjoyed it--is a bit less hospitable this time of year, but it is every bit as pretty.

Coyote on Country Club

2011-01-19T10:03:00.002-05:00

I would include a picture--but it would just be a black dot on the snow field that is the lake. The furry fellow was moving from the Elks toward Rain Creek--about even with Doc Fritz' place. If I had a little dog on Country Club--I'd keep him on a leash! He seemed confused as viewed in the binoculars, lots of looks over the shoulder and hesitation. We saw some tracks around the island a few days ago that we thought belonged to a dog--perhaps not. The snow creates a good record of visitors--but I'm not the best at deciphering whose feet belong to whom.

The Ice Puzzle

2011-01-04T16:29:00.002-05:00

More like a jigsaw puzzle. The recent run from way above freezing back to freezing has left the lake in distress. The surface is carved into triangles--many not much bigger than a coffee table. The question: Do these fractured seams have the same strength as the surrounding ice once they re-freeze--or will they break again at the first opportunity? It is a bit unnerving to walk across the surface with so many cracks and with such a clear view of the lake bottom! It looks very cold down there. So far so good.

A Winter's Scene

2010-12-30T20:01:00.001-05:00

A color photograph--but a world in black and white.

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS

2010-12-21T11:43:00.003-05:00

From our family on Treasure Island and Lake Manitou--to your family. May your holiday be joyous and your New Year safe and prosperous.

Ice

2010-12-14T14:55:00.003-05:00

When you are on an island, ice takes on a whole new interest when winter comes. Will it bear my weight? How slippery is it? Is there anyway I can cross to shore? I've done some reading on the subject--and I thought I'd share some things I've learned.

If you want to walk on water, the consensus seems to be that three inches of thickness is needed. You can get away with a lot less if you are on black ice. That was the condition we found at the beginning of last winter. After a rousing storm which truly stirred the last vestige of warm water from the bottom, we entered a quiet time which promoted a "perfect" layer of ice of about one inch in thickness. The still air and cold temps allowed for a uniform freeze that allowed a perfect crystalline structure to form in the ice--a structure of great strength. We enjoyed a full winter of this strong underlying surface, as additional layers were built.

This year looks to be a white ice year. We started with a nice one half inch of black ice, but it was quickly lashed with a warming rain, and now we have a hodgepodge which will probably serve as our base layer for the year.

For Cookie and myself, it means walking across with the kayaks close by. For those of you on shore, I'd recommend watching the ice fishermen. When they venture out to open areas of the lake, it will probably hold the average pedestrian as well.

Remember to take care wherever warming current may run. The channels where we are located fill with warm roof runoff from the channel homes and flow the water along the west shore toward the damn. Add to that the radiant heat of the seawalls in the morning sun and you have a pretty threatening combination on a sunny day. As we found with sailing, sometimes the greatest danger lies just before making port. The last few steps can be pretty exciting.

Swans--How do they Know?

2010-12-08T10:02:00.006-05:00

I suppose it just could be coincidence. Last year, our only sighting of Mute Swans in the heart of the lake (near Big Island) came the day before the lake froze over.

Sure enough, yesterday--a cold and crisp winter's day--we saw them again in the same location. Today we have Lake Manitou with a new top of winter ice.

This is tricky for us because we have a "do not miss" appointment tomorrow. Will the ice hold us?

The Eagle has Landed!

2010-12-06T08:44:00.006-05:00

Here is a great Mike Kenny photo.

Every morning my wife and I settle in the sun room with a cup of coffee and view the wonder of the lake waking up to a new day. Today was special. Swooping in from the North came a very, very large bald eagle. He came to a rest in the tree at the point deck, causing a very substantial limb to yield and bounce back with his weight. I couldn't help but think, "there's a dog in my tree--with wings!" What an unbelievable sight. As he left, I held my breath that our hunters on the South shore left the beer at home! Sure enough, no gun shots echoed as the eagle moved across the Elks.

I will always remember the view this morning--as the flag on the pole waved in the breeze and that beautiful eagle stood proudly in the line of sight in the point tree.

The First Snow

2010-12-04T12:04:00.002-05:00

It's winter for sure. This is the first snow that stayed with us. All is new and clean and crisp again. My wife and I fled the snow for California when we were young. Now we are back again with a new appreciation for the changing seasons.

The Big Piers are In

2010-11-14T09:30:00.005-05:00

Today there is no mistaking the chill of winter. Yesterday was a different story--the last day of Indian Summer. The day before that we actually reached 72 degrees. The big piers are in now--as we protect them from the grind of the ice pack to come. The work was done courtesy of the Rochester Boat Company--comprised of a triple crew, a lift boat, and a 4-wheeler.

The work pier will remain until just before the ice forms--then it will be foot power with the kayaks on a tether just in case. It is good to walk on water!

Here's to a snug winter and the happy holidays to come!

Stormy Weather

2010-11-04T11:15:00.003-04:00

Yep. It's not all sunshine and birds singing. It's early morning now, with a promise of rain.

The Beaver's Back

2010-10-30T23:06:00.003-04:00

Lake Manitou lies quiet now. Treasure Island once again beckons to the beaver. If it isn't fenced--it's gone. This can do some good, as there's nothing like a beaver to clear away the overgrowth and brush of summer. Every once in awhile a bush falls prey. We tried using bird netting on this one, hoping the beaver wouldn't risk entanglement. Our mistake.

The Clouds of Autumn

2010-10-27T19:27:00.003-04:00

Around World Series time every year the skys light up. It isn't just the Fall color. Mother Nature puts on a show high in the clouds as well.

Halfway to Winter

2010-10-25T17:52:00.003-04:00

Well, it looks to me like we are at the halfway mark in terms of Autumn. Many of the leaves have left the building, but we still have plenty left to fall.

Autumn is Here

2010-10-14T19:51:00.005-04:00

We have had the most amazing fall. We had just three days that you could even call "cold." The temperature overnight just brushed 32 degrees. The rest of the days have been shirtsleeve weather until yesterday. Still, the trees are turning as always. Growing up, I was always told that it took a good cold snap to set the color. Not so--and I'm posting the evidence! Treasure Island is filled with reds and yellows, and the shore is starting to turn as well. Now the weather is indeed getting brisker. Stay cozy and warm everyone.

The Old Man and the Lake

2010-10-10T12:38:00.002-04:00

There lived on the shore of Manitou an elderly gentleman. He dispensed bait and pier parts and other things a fisherman might need. His disposition was always sunny. One day my wife asked him if he had a secret to his longevity. He thought--and then with a smile--he said, "well, every morning I walk to the water's edge and look to the heavens and say, 'thank you Lord for this day.'" Today is one of those days on Manitou. We are into Indian Summer, the lake is a mill pond with just a bit of breeze. We are in our shirtsleeves, and are indeed thankful for this day.

The "Picture Window"

2010-09-26T15:23:00.002-04:00

This is the smallest window in the house. When you are on an island--almost any window will give you a view as pretty as a picture.

Time to Brag a Little

2010-09-12T13:16:00.002-04:00

This is a big day for us. We just made Kiplinger's List of the eleven most interesting islands. You can see us at http://www.kiplinger.com/features/archives/the-dreams-and-nightmares-of-owning-a-private.html. We have some nice calls about the place and good conversations with folks from Los Angeles to Chicago. Thanks to everyone for their interest!

Hot Air in a Beautiful Package

2010-09-05T13:30:00.000-04:00

What can I say. When I see a balloon, I just have to post a picture. They are such a pretty sight.

TAKEOUT TIME!

2010-08-30T13:12:00.006-04:00

Here are some pictues of the Rochester Boat Company in action at the Treasure Island Pier. Though the summer season is coming to a close, we are holding back a lift for Autumn use. The fishing is good and the Fall color is amazing. For those looking to rent--we are available.

Why Rent an Island?

2010-07-04T11:41:00.004-04:00

Decks for Relaxing

Room to Roam

In fact, lots of room to roam!

Pontoon for Pontooning

Places to watch the wildlife

Walks for Walking!

It occurred to me that what you really need if you're thinking about renting, are pictures of nothing. I'm so used to taking pictures of something that you've never really had a chance to view all the space that makes an island so much different than a shore side rental. So here is some space! If you like what you see, check out the availability calendar in the upper right and check in!

HAPPY FOURTH!!

2010-07-04T11:35:00.001-04:00

The title says it all!

Turtle Time

2010-06-11T22:29:00.003-04:00

It's that time of year. Turtles are everywhere, searching for a good spot to lay eggs. Unfortunately, all too often it's across a busy highway. Cars are not the only turtle problem these days. I see more and more evidence of prop damage as well. I saw one big one on the shore side with two big slices--I don't know how she survived. This one also has seen some rough times. She could have been nailed with a prop, or even been attacked by a dog. She must have accomplished her mission, as when I returned a few minutes later she was long gone.

Daisies

2010-06-03T21:46:00.001-04:00

The wild daisies are back. Not quite the showing of past years--but always pretty.

The Shore Side

2010-05-26T18:37:00.004-04:00

The gang's all here! Now we know what happened to the geese around the island. They are living the good life on the shore. Here are some photographs of our shoreside this morning. The Wisteria covers the old bell pole. No need for signaling the island in this age of cell phones, so we made it into a trellis. As you can see, we had a pretty morning.

Treasure Island is for Rent

2010-05-23T15:25:00.005-04:00

We have decided to rent Treasure Island. It would be a pleasure to share the island with kindred spirits--and it is a nice source of income for our retirement. As this is our first season, we have lots of room on the calendar--even in June.

We are available by the week (Six nights) at $2100, complete with pontoon boat, 4 kayaks, and tons of toys like horseshoe pitches, bocce games, badminton and such.

Treasure island can sleep six comfortably, with a king bed in the treetops sleeping loft and a double and two twins in the downstairs suite with full bath. We also have a full bath on the main floor.

The island also makes a wonderful getaway for two--a week of total privacy and a change of pace from the workaday world.

We suppose you could spend the same money for a single room at a resort, if you'd rather have the high dining prices, the people and auto congestion, and the noise noise noise!

For those of you who have been kind enough to follow this blog, please spread the word.

Happy Memorial Day!

Bob.

Wild Flowers

2010-05-12T10:12:00.006-04:00

It seems that every year a new wildflower makes its debut on Treasure Island. This is the year of the Lily of the Valley. We have carpets of these snow white beauties scattered about the island--perhaps to remind us of the bright white snow cover we enjoyed just weeks ago.

The Marauder

2010-05-10T13:18:00.004-04:00

This is the time of the year for birds to be nesting. We had a sweet little duck nesting at the point, right on the edge of the deck. Yesterday morning we found her eggs scattered within a two yard radius, with only the shells remaining. Before that we had a robins nest go from "eggs" to "eggless" over night. So my lady set a trap and look what we found. As I write this our raccoon is taking a nice ride out into the country. We are hoping this solves the egg problem for the season.

New Arrivals Part II

2010-05-04T08:40:00.003-04:00

Here are the pictures we promised earlier.

New Arrivals

2010-04-28T21:14:00.002-04:00

The nesting geese had taken their station beneath our satellite dish a few weeks ago, as they did last year. This morning we had a dusting of frost on the ground and, on her morning rounds, my wife saw a most unusual sight. Both geese were on the nest! We mulled this development over coffee and wondered if it was a two goose morning, in terms of keeping the eggs warm--though we'd never heard of such a thing--we were always told females did all the sitting. When we went back to check, we found we were only part right. The eggs had hatched, and both geese were now quite busy herding little fuzz balls about. Earlier the goslings must have been under both sets of wings. So now we have four goslings and one forlorn unhatched egg with a hole in it. We'll try to get some pictures when they are less skittish.

Spring has Sprung

2010-04-10T17:22:00.009-04:00

Admittedly this is the veriest beginning. Not much evidence as yet. But we've had our first warm days and the trees and flowers fell for it--as did we. As soon as we'd removed the storm windows upstairs and the blanket from the bed--in came another cold snap. Still, we submit to you incontrovertible evidence that spring is here.

Sandhill Cranes

2010-04-06T21:02:00.002-04:00

The sandhill cranes have been more present than ever this season on Manitou. They sound so much like baby racoons, that it takes some detective work. In both instances, the sound seems to come at you from all sides at once. Some times the best thing you can do is look straight up--and very high up at that. You might be graced with the sight of a flock all at once.

Just a few days ago we had our first experience with cranes at low altitude. Two pairs came swooping low over our roof, flying from the north, toward the marsh past the Anderson place on the south shore. It is so hard to believe that something that breathtakingly big can fly at all! They made no sound, but what a sight! I have included one of Mike Kennys great Rochester Sentinel photographs. The big guys are too quick for me--I don't know how Mike does it.

The End of the Ice

2010-03-08T17:36:00.005-05:00

Today is the day. The Moose lodge places a car on the ice every year (a very old tradition) drained of fluids and cabled for quick removal. Everyone draws a date when the car will break through. Right now the front end is through the ice. My bride did as well, breaking through to her shoulders today. We also lost an ice fisherman to the waters of Manitou toward the head of the lake. We're happy to report that six others and lots of rope got him home safely. My bride had a good hand on land, so she was safe, but wet, as well. We always cross with kayaks in tow when the ice is unstable. Still, thirty-two degree water is no fun. Spring ice is a stealthy thing. You have no warning. The snow runoff eats from under the ice pack while a slush from the warm sun forms on top. When there is no longer enough ice to sustain you--you plunge through very quickly, and with no fanfare. In the fall, after the first hard freeze, the ice--like a rattle snake--will warn you with a loud crack before you go. In the Spring, it is a soft "whoosh" and you are gone . We have lots of provisions. To our friends on land--we hope to see you soon.

More Freezing Fog

2010-02-13T14:45:00.003-05:00

Honeymoon island sits off to the north, looking like a giant snowball. The mist was in last night and of course it froze. I can't get enough of the stuff!

Winter Sunset

2010-02-12T21:50:00.002-05:00

The days are getting longer!

Manitou Speaks

2010-02-09T17:38:00.003-05:00

These winter nights--starting with the last full moon--you would think we had a pride of lions living on the eastern shore. That is the sound of pack ice on the move--the sound of a lion's roar in the distance. Some times it comes in stereo, as the ice movement goes shore to shore. No wonder the Pottawatomie believed spirits lived in this lake.

Though we have been below freezing for many days, an area has opened up near the channels--open water surrounded by eight inch thick ice. There is much to learn about the dynamic of ice on water in the winter. For us at the moment, it means finding a safe detour to shore.

Freezing Fog

2010-01-19T20:05:00.006-05:00

Being transplanted Californians, we had a little trouble with this term--heard on the weather channel--at first. Once you see it, you get it.

The Eagle

2010-01-18T10:18:00.002-05:00

I have seen him wheeling overhead--but leave it to Mike Kenny of the local paper to get up close. To see a Bald Eagle is to really feel privileged.

How Do People Visit?

2010-01-11T11:10:00.009-05:00

Sled Power! (Snowmobiles to us old fogeys)

How Do You Get Ashore?

2010-01-08T17:07:00.001-05:00

Foot Power!

Winter on Treasure Island

2010-01-08T16:29:00.003-05:00

Snow Angel

2010-01-03T17:36:00.003-05:00

What is a winter without a snow angel? Though the temperature is a brisk 17 degrees, Lake Manitou is still irresistible. After all, how often do you get to walk on water?

J. Frost, Artist

2009-12-28T21:26:00.003-05:00

Of the thirty-five windows in the home, we still have five that are the old-fashioned storm windows without thermopane. Maybe they don't insulate as well--but they sure make a good canvas for J. Frost.

Winter's Day to Dusk

2009-12-27T18:22:00.002-05:00

When the air is still and the snow rests upon the branches, there is nothing more beautiful than a color image rendered by nature into black and white.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

2009-12-21T15:59:00.004-05:00

Winter Wonderland indeed.

ICE

2009-12-16T20:10:00.007-05:00

We spent Thanksgiving in California, electing to see the country with a drive back to the lake here in Indiana. We took the southern route as there was already plenty of snow around Tahoe, and found lots of cold weather in the high desert of Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. We got through Williams just ahead of a major snow storm and were patting ourselves on the back when we ran into a major league bout of intestinal flu. Just what a traveler needs. C was hit first, around Nashville, so we put in a couple of days at my sister's place--then we pressed north. I came into it as we drove into a blizzard just outside of Rochester. Oh misery. My niece put us up in her guest house, as I was in no shape for a row to the island.

It was becoming obvious that the lake was icing over, so we crawled out of our sick bed to make the row in high winds and 20 degree weather. Our arrival at the launch point was surreal, as amidst the tumult of the high winds and blowing snow we beheld our group of seven mute swans--as if they'd formed a nice receiving line for us just off the shore side. The juveniles were now resplendent in their new snow white plumage.

We filled the rowboat with two weeks' of groceries and launched across the bitter wind. I would have enjoyed the view more if the plug hadn't popped out of the stern of the row boat half way across. C spotted it as the water gushed in and quickly put her foot on it, as the water was too cold for her hand. Before we arrived at the island the gushing water had been reduced to a solid ice dam and there was no longer any need for a shoe.

The boat was full side to side with provisions and we had quite a dance in the lively waters as we unloaded enough supplies to last us till the lake froze hard.

Tomorrow is the day to test the ice. We will take the kayaks ashore across the newly formed skin of Lake Manitou. We'll be swapping oars for Phillips screwdrivers as our means of propulsion.

I watched the first Bald Eagle of the winter wheeling above the lake this evening--hopefully a good omen.

I Wonder

2009-11-11T11:36:00.002-05:00

What is this all about? Surely we don't have a bird with a nut collection. Do we have a lazy squirrel who's tired of burying acorns? Who knows. It could just be that the nest was under an acorn tree--but the nest was so into the bush below the tree that it's hard to believe it had that many random visitors. This nest used to belong to the catbird, long since moved away.

Twilight

2009-10-26T14:59:00.002-04:00

The Red-wings still bed down off of Alice's deck, and you still hear the call of the geese in the distance. Now there is a snap in the air--and the fall color triumphs over the muted tones of dusk.

Autumn on the Shore

2009-10-19T19:39:00.003-04:00

Wondrous!

More Autumn on the Island

2009-10-18T17:17:00.004-04:00

Why does anybody go to New England or Brown County?

Autumn Comes to Treasure Island

2009-10-17T22:47:00.007-04:00

We're promised Indian Summer in a few days--but right now we're running fifteen degrees below normal. Hard on people but good for fall color.

Mute Swans

2009-10-07T09:45:00.005-04:00

The top picture is from my tiny camera, pointed toward the Elks Club from the island. Mike Kenny, the Rochester Sentinel's intrepid photographer was able to get a lot closer--so I included his photo as well. Mike is one of the community's great resources. Constantly on the prowl with his camera, he has bagged a beautiful assortment of nature photographs over the years. Take a look at http://www.rochsent.com/.

The brown swans are the young ones. They will be snow white next season. The swans are frequent visitors to Lake Manitou. I've had them pass overhead within twenty feet of my kayak. Quite a sight--and sound, as they kind of wheeze as they flap their wings.

Fishermen Rule

2009-09-13T18:40:00.003-04:00

We are after Labor Day, and although we still have a few holdouts in the form of wave boarders, water skiers and jet skiers, fishermen now own the lake. Crisp mornings and calm waters make Lake Manitou the perfect venue for a leisurely run with rod and reel.

You Know You've Been on the Island too Long When....

2009-09-13T18:34:00.002-04:00

This set me back a little. The missus did it. I guess I'll just try to ignore the whole deal--unless I overhear her talking to him.

Lake Manitou has a Visitor

2009-09-09T18:52:00.002-04:00

We are graced by the presence of a hot air balloon--they visit us from time to time. They always seem to miss the trees on Treasure Island, but not by much!

It's Not Just Bass!

2009-08-13T12:31:00.000-04:00

Here we have a very nice-sized Bluegill, captured off the point deck last evening. My lady did the deed with an old-fashioned rod, reel, and worm.

THEY'RE BACK!

2009-08-06T14:58:00.000-04:00

The hibiscus are back..Were they planted by former owners? Did they drift in? Who knows--but they are a pretty sight.

One for the Bug Blog

2009-08-04T11:54:00.000-04:00

Behold the tomato horn worm--certainly big enough to eat a tomato! If you find your leaves missing from your tomato plant--here's the culprit. He has wonderful camouflage and it takes a sharp eye to find him.

Islands in the Sky

2009-07-27T20:12:00.000-04:00

I thought the clouds were particularly pretty today.

Hammock Hints

2009-07-22T09:46:00.000-04:00

With help from my grandson Lucas (visiting from Maine), we present the proper way to keep a hammock when not in use. Why? Because to us, "hammock" means rest and relaxation--a way to look into the tree tops and watch the clouds. However to a bird, "hammock" means "target." Let them try their luck when the hammocks are edge up!

HAPPY FOURTH!!

2009-07-05T16:02:00.000-04:00

From the California Grandsons to you and your family.

How Does Your Garden Grow

2009-07-03T16:51:00.000-04:00

Here are some pictures of the summer gardens on Treasure Island. Some in great plots--others in window boxes and pots. All add their bit to the joy of warm days and summer sunshine.

Meet the Granddaughters

2009-07-01T08:55:00.000-04:00

Here are my granddaughters. The girls are making a good point--water brings joy to any occasion. I've never known a grim face on the lake or around a sprinkler. This picture is courtesy of their mother, Liane.

New Arrivals

2009-06-24T09:05:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year. We've had our longest day, and here are the new ducklings--hatched on that day. Momma duck was busy feeding herself at the mulberry tree. The pictures of nests are normally done balanced on one leg with the arm out-stretched. Not exactly conducive to a quality shot--but you get the picture (bad play on words here).

PS: Two hours later: We find Mrs. Duck walking her brood out on the sea wall. I was surprised she didn't take the little ones down the boat ramp. Instead, she jumped the considerable distance off the sea wall to the water--and the little ones followed without hesitation. They didn't form a line--but formed a crescent off of momma's tail feathers. She moved at a furious pace and the little ones kept up--I'm sure they appeared as one large creature to anything lurking below or above. We'll cross our fingers.

THE LAKE IS OPEN TO VISITORS

2009-06-23T12:50:00.000-04:00

We have the following from the powers that be (Max Borden of the Lake Association):

"Doug Keller, Indiana DNR writes:

Aquatic plant survey was performed last week and no hydrilla plants were found. The DNR ramp will re-open on July 1 but all other ramps will remain closed. A news release has been prepared and will be sent out either today or tomorrow to announce the public availability of Manitou once again. We'll have to wait on the results of hydrilla tuber surveys early this fall to determine whether a brief closure will take place again next spring. I'll e-mail Jack Brown to see if he might be able to take the cable down late in the evening on June 30 so the ramp is available should some early morning anglers want to use the lake on the 1st

Reminder: Sunday June 28 Lake Manitou Association Annual Meeting, Wynnfield Crossing 2 pm (annual election of board members)
Wednesday July 1 Lake reopens, DNR ramp only
Friday July 3 Brent Evans' "Music on Manitou" 7 pm (donations welcome, Brent Evans 4th Street Studio)
Saturday July 4 Fireworks "

I greet the above with mixed emotions. It's good to get rid of the hydrilla--but it was fun to have my own private lake for a time. I think the wildlife appreciated the break as well.

Equal Time

2009-06-15T21:06:00.001-04:00

The catbird is such a constant presence around the island that I feel I owe her equal time in the "eggs in the nest" department. That completes the season's collection--as far as we can find them. The catbird makes some very beautiful calls--but the mewing can be a bit much.