Catch a falling star with the Perseid Meteor Shower

For those of us in Michigan now is the time to catch falling stars during the Perseid Meteor Shower. Unfortunately, the peak meteor activity this mid-August will be interfered with by the full moon tonight and its waning phases the next few nights. I remember laying out on a blanket one summer night as a child and watching the show that the meteors provide. It was literally a fireworks show presented by nature. Instead of booms and whistles the night air was only punctuated by my family's 'oohs' and 'ahhs.'

So, create a memorable family experience and lay out under the stars at least once over the next few days. The show starts to fade around the middle of August which is already next week. Where has the summer gone?

On a side note:

When I was writing this article, the Don McLean song "Starry Starry Night" (its actual title is Vincent, as in Van Gogh) popped into my head. I must admit that I never really listened to the words to this song in detail before. I never knew that it was about Vincent Van Gogh. You can listen to a live performance at Don McLean's website here. Starry Starry Night refers of course to Van Gogh's "Starry Night."

Become an Outdoors-Woman

The annual Becoming an Outdoors-Woman program will be held June 2-4 in Big Bay (just north of Marquette). The Michigan DNR is sponsoring this event at Bay Cliff Health Camp. Over two dozen types of activities will help women learn and further enhance their outdoor skills. A small sampling of the classes shows - rock climbing, kayaking, hiking, fishing, and much more. Registration is $155 (includes lodging, meals, and equipment) and more information can be found through www.michigan.gov/dnr.

Today is Beautiful, go Outside!

If you haven't been outside yet today, you had better get out there now. It is the best day of the year as far as the weather goes. Temperatures are hovering around the 60s (downstate anyway) and there is plenty of sunshine. I was actually able to do some gardening with my 19-month-old son this morning. He was even saying he was hot. I tried to find a photo on flickr.com from Michigan that did justice to today's weather, but so far I have come up empty.

Daffodils and Tulips had to have their winter covering of leaves pulled back. They should be blooming in another week or so. It would appear that we have finally shaken the shackles of winter from our lovely state and can begin to embrace the warmth of spring.

Go outside today and at least go for a walk! It is just too nice of a day. :)