Author Archives: Ottergarden's Minnesota Backyard

Busy Beavers

We have several beaver ponds near our house, and the beavers on “Little Lake” (pictured above) are very tolerant of residents using the road that runs along it. Oddly enough, beavers are the reason I moved to Minnesota. My first job was at Grand Portage NM, which interprets the Northwest Fur Trading Company and itsContinue reading “Busy Beavers”

Online Art Classes

After a year of restricted activities and a huge move from South Carolina to Minnesota, I was on the look out for a way to learn new crafts and hobbies to do at home. I had cross stitch projects, Zentangle books, and acrylic paints waiting to be picked up in SC, so I really wantedContinue reading “Online Art Classes”

My Backyard Today – Grand Portage Bay

I decided on a short walk down to the lake after work and found a couple interesting things to photograph on the way there and back. These little plants are in our front yard, popping through the melting ice, and I have no idea what they are: While I was walking, I let the cameraContinue reading “My Backyard Today – Grand Portage Bay”

My Backyard Today

Hi Everyone! When I capture something interesting within a block of our house, I’m going to try to post it and share an instant view with you! I looked out the front window and saw my favorite silvery waves. It’s overcast, but there is enough just enough light to cause reflections on the lake. IContinue reading “My Backyard Today”

Bohemian Waxwings

One of the things I remember most from when I lived in Minnesota 20 years ago is the arrival of the cedar waxwings and bohemian waxwings in the winter. These beautiful colorful birds make quite the impression! So I was very excited when this group of Bohemian Waxwings showed up in our yard this JanuaryContinue reading “Bohemian Waxwings”

Minnesota Fall Colors 2020

When I moved from South Carolina to Minnesota in September, I was worried that I would miss the fall colors. But I was just in time! It’s impossible to predict when the colors will peak on the Minnesota Arrowhead, but there are two or three weeks a year where the trees try to turn allContinue reading “Minnesota Fall Colors 2020”

Snowing on the Sawbill Trail

We woke up to heavy snow this morning, so we decided to take a drive up the Sawbill Trail, which can make a loop from Tofte to Grand Marais, MN. Many people use this road to access their chosen route into the Boundary Waters. There are many beautiful lakes along its path. Enjoy a snowyContinue reading “Snowing on the Sawbill Trail”