Lifestyle

It was almost dark, I was fishing a black topwater chugger of some kind, only about three inches long with a skirt behind it. But it was light enough to see the fish hit, and there wasn’t any doubt he was big and strong.

July is when we celebrate “Red, Blue and You!” This celebration happens not only as a Nation but in our homes. I was reminded that July is National Blueberry and Watermelon Month. The beautiful colors of red and blue mixed cause the food products to look like all American Dishes for the whole month of July. Fresh blueberry muffins with cream cheese and cold watermelon slices are one of my favorite summer breakfast menus. There are endless ways to love blueberries this summer including the classics: adding blueberries to our cereal and salads, as well as, snacking on them throughout the day.

Every one loves animals, or at least most people do. One spot that is poplar, a nice day trip, and not cost an arm and leg to enjoy the day. One thing that can make this trip less expensive is to pack a picnic lunch and go out to your vehicle and enjoy lunch and then return back to finish seeing the animals and the different sites around the zoo. The is admission and a parking fee, but it is minimal for a day trip. The zoo is stroller friendly and ADA accessible. Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent through the Safari Trader Market at the front entrance.

Hello readers and friends of the Mountaineer Echo, I hope this week finds everyone in good health and happy spirits. We had a wonderful time in Flippin this past weekend going to the 35th Annual Flippin Fireworks at Hickey Park. The was a huge number of people there with lots of vendors and just to watch all of the children play was super nice. The fireworks were very nice and both bands were great. It is so nice to see the community still come together for such special events. I hope everyone has a wonderful week and As Always remember the Little Things.

The bald eagle has been the national bird of the United States since 1782, when it was placed with outspread wings on the Great Seal of our country. It appears in many government institutions and on official documents, making it the most pictured bird in all of America.

Every garden season is filled with beautiful and tasty surprises along with a few challenges. One challenge gardeners face each year is managing insect pests while keeping the pollinators safe. Fortunately, only a very small percent of insects in our landscapes are harmful. The rest help pollinate plants, feed upon, or parasitize bad insects, or help decompose plant debris.