Birding
Puffins in Maine
While on a New England excursion in May (2010), and after spending a day at Acadia National Park on Maine’s northern coast, a friend and I made a stop in the small coastal village of New Harbor. New Harbor is about halfway between the national park and Portland and is situated in a cozy inlet at the... »
White Water Rafting Excitement in Costa Rica
After 12 years of daughters and mothers sharing the many experiences of Girl Scouts, we decided we would like one last “Big” adventure together before the girls went away to college. What bigger adventure for 9 women than a 10 day vacation together? Planning a trip to encompass everyone’s tastes was no easy task. We... »
An Ear For Birds : Carver Park Reserve in Minnesota
One morning this spring, I visited a favorite local birding spot. It is the Carver Park Reserve, located 20 miles west-southwest of Minneapolis (MN). For nature buffs, Carver Park ranks up there with the best destinations in the Twin Cities area. It’s a large preserve with miles of hiking and biking trails that wend... »
See it all in Vara Blanca, Costa Rica
I have traveled to Vara Blanca several times over the last few years and was deeply saddened by the effect that the January 8th earthquake had on the people. Life in Vara Blanca is simple – farms, coffee plantations and tourism sustain this area outside of Alajuela. My hope is that by now,... »
Birding Paradise in Carara National Park, Costa Rica
On the short drive to Manuel Antonio, you cross the Tarcoles river and see what appears to be logs on the bank. Upon closer inspection with your telephoto lens, you will be amazed to see huge salt water crocs resting in the sun. A few kilometers down the road on the left... »