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The Buttermilk Trail

October 3, 2012 by larrysmailart

Cowanshannock Creek

The morning hours were involved with some art projects. Later on I “messed around”with some yard work when I felt the desire to go for a walk. the leaves are rapidly turning colors and a blink or two and they will be brown and covering the woodland’s floor. Yep, a walk was to be!

Buttermilk Falls

I called a friend, Larry Delaney to see if he would be interested in joining me on a hike along Cowanshannock Creek. We would be walking on a Rails to Trails project along the creek. Armed with cameras, we slowly walked the trail looking over the colors and talking Indians and wildlife. We, also, looked with disgust at the vandalizing and trash thrown about. A long section of “sheep fencing”was removed along one section of the trail. I will never understand people!

Using a rock as a tripod!

   Plenty of photos were taken, especially of the locally famous “Buttermilk Falls”. We continued past the end of the trail. I made notice as to how quickly the large stones disappear after we proceeded past the falls. The creek bottom goes abruptly from large, smooth boulders to a flat rock bottom. This stream is a most beautiful section of waters! Hemlocks and rhododenrens border the creek making for a nice contrast with the coloring leaves.

 

Staghorn Sumac in crimsom!

Along the trail, we noticed many acorns and beechnuts. The big trees were producing much this year. Deer and turkey activity was prevalent as the critters enjoyed easy pickin’s!                                    

The walk was, somewhere around 3 miles total. Some of the wildlife viewed were two wood ducks and kingfishers.

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Along Buffalo Creek

September 29, 2012 by larrysmailart

Buffalo Creek

I spent the morning hours finishing up details on a couple of paintings. A couple of errands were in need of doing too.

Mom believed me when I told her white caterpillars meant 12-15 feet of snow!

All done with the errands and a hike of a couple of miles would be the ticket on such a glorious morning. This walk would include both road and woodland walking.  Some trees, especially the maples, were already coming into full color and others were still holding onto their summer hues. The wild flowers are in various stages. Some have long gone to seed, yet others are in full bloom.

   One of the most prevalent flower in blossom now is the New York Aster. This flower has a slight sky-blue color with a golden center. Other white-colored asters are flowering yet. The woodland sunflowers are in seed and the Goldfinches were enjoying filling up on their seeds.

The coolness of the day had bird activity in high gear. Bluejays; finches; woodpeckers… were to be viewed everywhere! Chipmunks and some squirrels were busy gathering acorns.

While on the pavement I noticed a gobbler walking across the road. Shortly, thereafter, I heard him gobble at a loud ATV. I saw one deer feeding in the distance.

This evening, I will be playing lead guitar with the First Methodist’s church staff band at their Saturday night service. Tomorrow, the 30th, I will be playing with a put together band at the Burrell Township’s Annual Fall Festival. I am not sure of who will be playing at that event.                        

Yes, the fall season is upon us and expect autumn-colored trees to be included in upcoming posts.

New York Aster

Cocklebur

 

Posted in Hikes, Misc. Nature, Wildflowers | Leave a Comment »

I’VE BEEN WALKING

September 22, 2012 by larrysmailart

I have been walking some. However, I have been lazy in regards to this site. While walking about I have seen deer; turkeys; squirrels and many species of flowers and bird life.

 

White Snakeroot

Bob and I have walked  a couple of miles at my homestead. In fact, we have done this rural road walk twice in recent weeks. As we walked along this road I noticed what appeared to be a turkey wing in the ditch. It was! Apparently, the turkey was a road kill. Upon inspection of the remains I was surprised to see one inch spurs. Immediately, I thought I need to get these legs for my friend, Kip Feroce. He would make back scratchers from them. Unfortunately, when I returned to remove the legs some critter must have relocated the remains far away.                                                                                                                          

Another hike I did consisted of walking a rural road that one can  easily make a circle instead of backtracking. I am guessing th e entire walk to be , at least, 4 miles around.  I did, however, walk off the road to pass through the lower area of a local state game lands. Here I was blessed to see a march hawk  flying through the fog. These hawks tend to fly low often hovering in one spot watching for movement of a mouse.

Marsh Hawk

   Last evening, while planning to visit the land owner, I first went for a mile long walk to see if any turkeys were in a field searching for grasshoppers. I did see a buck in the field. Later, I would see about 15 turkeys within feet of another of the landowners building.  Later, I saw another buck and six does. Another two deer were viewed while traveling home before dark.

Today, I spent working on some art. I haven’t been painting lately and the rainy day helped inspire me to paint. I have been putting lots of hours working with a digital recorder and , I am , pleased to say I have completed the twelve songs. I have actually placed the songs onto a CD!  This has been a time-consuming venture, but I have learned a lot. I , literally have hundreds of hours involved with studying the manual; retyping the  instructions into a computer and making a guideline to ease my study. Most songs have, at least, seven different tracks of music!

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GUITAR FOR JOANNE CASH

September 13, 2012 by larrysmailart

l-r: Al Mechling; JoAnne Cash and Brad Anthony

The rains began pummeling on the morning of Saturday, September the 8th.  More rain fell over the morning to early after noon on this day than we had received during the last two months! The people of the radio station WTYM in Kittanning had been planning a country music event for quite some time and the weather was surely hampering the day. This would cause an hour and half delay in all things!

However, eventually the skies began to open and the weather changed. A wind condition began and some coolness was the norm, but the rain had ceased. Good news for the musicians, the sound people and of course the event organizers.

l-r: Brad Anthony; Al Mechling; Harry Yates; JoAnne Cash Yates; Larry Smail; Walt Marr; Dick vernon; danna vernon

Finally, the band I currently play lead guitar with entered the stage. the band, GOOD NEWS COUNTRY began their part of the show. A number of bands and solo performers entertained  the patrons that eventually braved the weather to listen! We were having issues with the monitor system causing difficulty with me hearing myself and the steel guitar was dominate. As time went on the sound people improved this problem some.

This band stayed on the stage once their time was completed and JoAnne Cash entered the stage. JoAnne is Johnny Cash’s younger sister. JoAnne is in her mid-eighties now. This and the weather would be a problem for the singer. JoAnne was having great difficulties with her voice. The damp air, no doubt, had caused some problems and she couldn’t complete many songs. She couldn’t apologize enough, but the crowd was very forgiving and loving towards her issues.

The band GOOD NEWS COUNTRY  features the following members: Danna Vernon with vocals;  Al Mechling on rhythm guitar and vocals; Brad Anthony on bass guitar and vocals; Dick Vernon on steel guitar; Walt Marr on drums and myself, Larry Smail on lead guitar. An event is being planned for next year. (Photos by Marla Mechling)

Good News Country on stage

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LIVING TREASURES

September 12, 2012 by larrysmailart

Prairie Dog

The weather was looking good when we decided to go and visit the Living Treasures along U.S. 422 towards New Castle, Pennsylvania. Living Treasures is a zoo-like site where individuals can walk about observing many species of animals and bird life. The site even has a small-scale aviary where one can walk about with the birds.    

Laurie, has always enjoyed visiting such places where feeding and petting many of the animals is permitted. Today was no different. We purchased some animal feed and raw baby carrots and off she went happily feeding!

Many of the animals present are exotic, that is coming from other countries. There are monkeys; Crowned Cranes; African lions; leopards (which we were blessed to see one of the new babies.); camels; tigers; McCaws; tortoises… me, however, I enjoy American species much more. Some of these included flamingoes; alligators (At least 36) lynx; otters; turkeys; some various waterfowl species; painted turtles; caribou…They had , both kangaroos and wallabies present. We saw several mothers with babies in their pouches!

Painted Turtle

  One thing that happened while we were there was very laughable to us. It seems a little boy ran ahead of his mother only to stop at a machine where animal feed can be obtained. Some species were only allowed Cherrios. This little lad was busy reaching about the containment area of this machine eating heartedly the Cheerios laying about! The young mother reached him gouging her index finger into his little mouth to remove as much as possible. Hilarious to watch!       

Afterwards, we stopped at my ex-in laws for a brief visit to pick up a gun ticket. Then off for an early supper. Later, my friend Joe Wagner stopped in to collect various flowers from my stock. His church in Chicora, Pennsylvania is needing many flowers for a planting project.

  The rest of the evening was spent in rest. This aging body enjoys rest! Hope you enjoy the few photos. 

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Autumn Is Coming!

September 7, 2012 by larrysmailart

  I haven’t been feeling my best as of late. I now have Vertigo and tension-style headaches are the norm….subtle but present. Don’t get me wrong, I will take these headaches over the Vertigo attacks anytime. They are terrible to endure! Yesterday, I felt really well and decided to take a trip to a local state game lands. Initially, I was planning to try to catch a carp or two. After 15 minutes, I couldn’t stand trying to catch them for they were ignoring my bait! The desire to walk and take photos took precedence!                                                                                                                                              

  The cool morning was coated with a fog and the beauty of the woods was always at hand. The trees are showing signs of the upcoming autumn season. Colored leaves are all about and in about a month the colors will be peaking. Hard to believe!

Spotted Jewelweed (Touch-Me-Not)

Wildlife was about too. I saw a deer and heard another snorting at me. I saw two gray squirrels bounding and chasing. These two were much surprised when they  ran about ten feet from me.  I saw a fox squirrel too. I was happy to see a ring-necked pheasant. Apparently, the bird was a holdover from last year.

The fields and woodland flowers are out in force. Kind of a last hurrah for flowers. Some of the species observed were white snakeroot; asters; Queen Anne’s Lace; jewelweed (Both the yellow and orange varieties.); goldenrods; red clover; Bull thistle; smartweed….

Monarch Butterfly Caterpillar

By mid-morning the heat was becoming very pronounced and I headed home.                                                      

Posted in Misc. Nature | 4 Comments »

The “WHEATFIELD-WHIRLPOOL OF DEATH” ON STONE

September 4, 2012 by larrysmailart

The Civil War painting entitled, “THE WHEATFIELD-WHIRLPOOL OF DEATH”  has ventured into a new method of display. STONE! The process places a copy of the print onto flat, but irregular, stones. The contrast of the stone’s texture makes for an interesting touch of character to the image.   If anyone would be interested these are available for purchase. The original painting detailed the battle at Gettysburg featuring the 62nd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. The site became known as the battle at the Wheatfield.

Further details of the painting and battle may be found by visiting my blog sites of July and August 2011.

Contact : Robert Bowser at 724-545-1330 or Jac-Lin Framing On Stone (Jack and Linda Kraft) at 814-647-8644 for details and options.  The art on stone can be set on a stand (nice on fireplace hearth) or hanged as a painting.

Posted in Historical, My Art | 1 Comment »

OLD BEDFORD VILLAGE

August 26, 2012 by larrysmailart

  Traveling south on Route 220 I saw the big green and white distance sign. I clearly saw Bedford 17. Slight anxiety could be felt within me.  I continued on! Shortly, I saw the Exit 10 sign! If the Dodge Caliber can make it past this exit all would be well, I remember thinking.

Young soldier!

I breathed a slight sigh of relief after I went a few extra miles south. I MADE IT! Most of you readers are, probably thinking what is this idiot writing and why!

They wanted me to hold the target!

A year ago, I was heading in the early hours to the Old Bedford Village  for a Civil War event known as  “MEET THE GENERALS”. After I went past the Bedford 17 miles and prior to the Exit 10 sign I stopped in the wooded area for some business. Upon returning to the car, and turning the key, I was amazed that the dash had so many-colored lights! The car wouldn’t start. Eventually, I managed to get the car started periodically and after going right at Exit 10 the problems continued until I flagged down a state trooper for assistance. I didn’t make the event. The car’s computer system failed with only around 24,000 miles.

After the wedding.

Jim Butler-camp cook

This has been a joke between my friend, Robert “Slim” Bowser and myself since. He was one of the reasons I was making the trip. He requested I show my painting, “THE WHEATFIELD-WHIRLPOOL OF DEATH” at the event. Slim is president of the Company D, 62nd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry 5th Corps group of living historians. (www.62ndpvi.wordpress.com) I am honored and proud to be a honorary member with the group.

I arrived early at the village and unloaded about 7 paintings to display. I spent much time with many friends of the 62nd group. We had lots of laughs and lots of friendly harassment! A great bunch of people indeed! 

My friend, Jim Butler, after much harassment, made an excellent breakfast of bacon and eggs! (I ate 4 eggs!) Jim later in the evening made a turkey; beans; potatoes and sweet potato pie over the fire and using dutch ovens. Other long-time friends and a few newer friends included Joe Rupp; Den Butler; Judy Butler; Marylou Rupp; Sue Carson; Jim Johnson,; Cindy McShane and others. A few young-uns are with the group too.

K.P. duty

Some events of the day were a firing demonstration and the Meet the Generals event. I attended a Civil war era wedding. This ceremony was a reaffirmation of a couple’s marriage. Of course, this was done in Civil War era clothing and style. Many officers lined up outside of the old church with sabers arched over the couple as they exited the church. A small reception was open to the public afterwards.  too.                                                                                                                                                              

The Old Bedford Village, for those who have never heard of the site consists of original log cabins and homes. Many are log cabins transferred to the site and erected again as a, hopefully, permanent display as to how our ancestors lived. The cabin I was at with my display was built in 1790. (Type in Old Bedford Village for a list of events and such for a learning experience.)

I have included some photos  to see just a few of the log cabins found here .

                                                                                        

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SHOOTING!

August 23, 2012 by larrysmailart

  Thursday found my step father, Bob and I heading to the Cherry Run Gun, Rod and Reel Club for some rifle shooting. The firearms of the day were two .22 rifles; my Remington 30:06 and a Thompson center flintlock.

We shot at the fifty yard range with the  .22 rifles and, also, at the 25 yard range. At fifty yards I was placing the shots within a two-inch circle and at the lesser yardage, the shots were all within one inch.  The high-caliber rifle did well at both fifty and 100 yards.

Bob shot his flintlock, as did I twice. There is more work to do on this rifle. I wasn’t satisfied with the fifty yard shots.

Robert “Dan’l Boone” Miller

Cousin, Donnie popped in for some light-hearted  harassment. A form of harassment we all enjoy. He was going to cut the club’s grass.

Earlier in the week I went for a walk along the Bunker Hill Road and circled through some woodlots. Here I was blessed to watch at a close range two fawns and their mother. I find observing these beautiful animals at close distances always a joy.

The Bunker Hill Road brings back a good memory for me. When I first heard of Bunker Hill in Armstrong County, Pennsylvania, I immediately though of theRevolutionary War battle site. I remember asking my dad if this was, indeed, the site. He told me the answer and I have always remembered that!

I parked at the local WTYM Radio station, owned by a friend. I wanted to look the site over. I am to play music there on September 8th. Currently, I will playing with three bands including backing JoAnne Cash. She is Johnny cash’s sister. This may be interesting. She supplied a CD with some songs she is to do. I knew of only one song the rest were original songs , I believe written and performed by her on the CD.                                                                                                                                                 

A View from Bunker Hill Road

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Nicholson Run Walk

August 15, 2012 by larrysmailart

Silvery water spots on milkweed leaf.

This walk wasn’t a planned excursion in any sense. This walk came to be because of an instance that happened in the pre-dawn hours. I guess I should explain. I had Susie out for a nature call when, suddenly and without warning, a severe coughing and choking event overcame me.  These spells are not unheard of in regards to my health, but they are not usually this bad. I actually dropped to the yard and had a burning discomfort to my arms and legs. I am assuming this is because of a lack of oxygen. I have had these sensations before too, but usually after a difficult sneeze.

Catbird

I remember securing Susie’s leash for fear if I passed out she would be wondering towards the road since she is blind. In a couple of minutes the event was over except for a slight burning in my right arm and extreme fatigue. I went to my “man cave” to recoup. To use a saying of my dads; this “knocked the wind out of my sail”!

Ironweed

I laid down and awoke about 7:15 and gave Susie her insulin. I felt weak, but I decided to go for a walk and get some fresh air…hence, Nicholson Run. I parked and forced myself to walk the road  parallel to the small stream. I literally mean that I forced myself for physically I was tired. Eventually, I received a second wind and the walk became more enjoyable.

Joe-Pye

The road is about 3 miles in length, so I am guessing so I walked approximately 6 miles,  give or take. The later summer flowers are in abundance. I found lots of woodland sunflowers blooming with their brilliant yellow petals. Also, the yellow-colored, green-headed coneflower could be viewed. The deep purple of ironweed contrasted the yellows, as well as, the pinkish joe-pye. I have joe-pye at my home reaching over 8 feet in height. As one would expect, the bees and butterflies were prevalent.

  Birds were common today around the flowers. I saw goldfinches; catbirds and various other species. I saw 4 deer in total. One was a doe with fawns.

Nicholson Run isn’t a very big stream. A local sportsman’s club stock trout in it for a youth fishing day. The vegetation is thick along the borders so for most of the walk the stream was unseen. I did, however, notice a few small beaver dams. I had watched beavers on this stream many years ago when the mammal was first making a strong comeback in the area.

green-headed coneflower

Posted in Hikes, Wildflowers, Wildlife | Leave a Comment »

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