the earth ink

Currently experiencing springtime in the Northern Hemisphere, this little birdy was a beautiful reminder of warmer weather that is trying to emerge between cold winter flurries and turbulent transitional storms. After the hibernation of winter, seeing life reappear on the trees and new critters hopping and flying outdoors leaves hikers refreshed and hopeful for summer. On this particularly warm Washington day, the leaves had not yet reappeared on the trees, but the birds were out in abundance near Lake Whatcom at Bloedel Donovan Park in Bellingham. Tree stumps showcased vibrant mosses and the smells of Washington's forests pervaded through my nostrils; more an earthy than musty aroma, the atmosphere smells alive, growing, and hopeful. I am no birder, but this looks like this might be a Vermilion Flycatcher in the crook of tree branches.

The Earth Ink is happy to announce that Andrea was one of the first prize winners of the AFAR | Eddie Bauer Live Your Adventure Photo Contest! Posting a photo from the hot and unexpected hike up Volc á n Cerro Negro to participate in the unusual adventure sport of volcano boarding, the picture gives perspective to the rocky new volcano and the length of the hike around the crater rim before the hikers fling themselves down the mountain on wooden boards. As one of nature's amusement rides, this mountain outside the small city of Le ó n, Nicaragua should not be missed. To see the Grand Prize winner and see the other winners, check out the AFAR announcement page . For a little more information, a recent post from The Earth Ink,  Volc á n Cerro Negro .