Winter in Rye Harbor

This photo was taken about four years ago on a winter trip to the ocean at Rye Harbor.

Part of the State Park system in NH, we have visited here at least a couple times a year for as long as I can remember.

This past year we were never able to make the trip and the ocean was surely missed by us both.

No matter what time of the year, there is nothing like smelling the salty fresh air and seeing the everchanging beauty of the water and waves as they rush along the shore.

The sea gulls, ducks, and sand pipers that are numerous in the summer are no where to be found in the winter.

But if one is really lucky, there are a couple of Snowy Owls that have been known to visit the area.

To them, this is their "south" as they nest and breed in northern Canada each spring and summer.

I have never been able to get a decent photo of one of these beautiful owls, but I was lucky enough one winter to see one.

He was easy to find though - the group of tripods and photographers were a dead give away that something interesting was going on down by the shore.

They were respectful and kept their distance as not to scare him away so we could all enjoy his winter visit.

 

 

Frosty Mullein

Mullein leaves covered in frost on a cold New Years Day

Snow is expected tonight so tomorrow will find these fuzzy leaves covered once again.

Mullein happily grows in poor sandy soil and can often be found alongside the road in the summer.

This was a first year plant as there were no dried flowering stalks left over from the past year.

It is also very small as these plants and leaves can be quite large  - I've seen them taller than me.

Valued for it's respiratory health properties, it can be harvested and dried when it is in season so it can be used when it is needed year round.

The leaves are covered in fine hairs which can be an irritant to the throat if they are used in a tea, so it needs to be strained well before drinking.

Viewed as a common weed by many, it is a gift from Mother Nature to those who recognize its worth.

 

 

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