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Taking the time to create and mount a photograph tells a special story about the giver as well as the receiver.
This list has been developed to inspire these types of personal gifts this season.
Sooner of later, the decision to invest in accuracy and calibration will bring out the real artist in you.
This list can help in a variety of disciplines.
MOAM has always like the Birds and Astronomy. Any any tool that helps with the skyview requirements of these activities is alright by me.
You don't need a telescope to see a Bird of a Star, but it makes things way cooler.
They will love these.
Plus, you can guarantee that they have access to the Nanepashemet Blog. Which is the ultimate gift in and of itself!!!!!!
Jeff Bezos and I spent a long time compiling this list of laptops to choose from. It would be the perfect gift.
Let's face it....
This list will allow you to be that guest at their house this season
Thoughtful Adult Beverages to Give
Sometimes the most thoughtful gift to give over the holidays to a friend or family member is a tool. It represents that you notice the stuff that interests people and is usually very well accepted.
We at Nanepashemet buy a heck of a lot of our tools at Amazon. The price is always competitive, and the convenence of of quick and predictable delivery is a huge plus.
We've taken the liberty of organizing some tools that our Nanepashemet Peeps might be interested in during this season of giving.
My three kids and I are not veterans. We were spared the requirement to stand for others. Both of their Grandfathers were disabled American vets. And my Grandfather as well. They overcame their wounds and lived to literally help create our lives.
My Father, John Nestor, was blown off of a ship in the North Atlantic in World War II. My Father-in-Law, Joseph LeBlanc, was wounded by tank shrapnel in Korea. And my Grandfather, Jeremiah Nestor, was gassed in the trenches of Europe during World War I. They survived these ordeals, albeit with great psychological damage.
They did not brag of their experiences.... in fact, they did not speak of them. When I asked my Father about what happened to him, he would fight back tears and become silent. I only asked him once. But shortly before his death, he was intrigued to know where exactly his Father has been gassed in Europe. He didn't know, because my Grandfather never told him. And my Father-in-Law never let us know that he was a POW in Korea.
These details were unspeakable to them.
Today is a day to reflect and give thanks to those who stood in harm's way to protect our way of life.
Thank You Veterans
Nestled among the charming songbirds that grace our gardens and woodlands, the Dark-Eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) stands out with its distinctive features and endearing behaviors. These small, sparrow-sized birds are a delight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. In this blog post, we will explore the captivating characteristics that make the Dark-Eyed Junco a beloved visitor to feeders and a fascinating subject of study.
Distinctive Plumage: One of the most noticeable features of Dark-Eyed Juncos is their striking plumage. These birds exhibit significant sexual dimorphism, with males and females showcasing different color patterns. Generally, they have slate-gray or brownish-gray upperparts, while the underparts vary from white to pale pink. The most distinctive feature is the dark hood or "mask" around their eyes, which gives them their name.
Geographical Diversity: Dark-Eyed Juncos are highly adaptable birds with a wide distribution across North America. Their range spans from the Arctic Circle to Mexico, and they are commonly found in various habitats, including forests, parks, and suburban areas. Different subspecies of Dark-Eyed Juncos have evolved to thrive in specific regions, leading to variations in size, coloration, and behavior.
Seasonal Migrations: Dark-Eyed Juncos are renowned for their seasonal migrations. During the breeding season, they inhabit higher elevations and northern latitudes. As winter approaches, these birds migrate to lower elevations and more southern regions, making them a familiar sight at backyard feeders in many parts of the United States. This migratory behavior adds to their mystique and provides opportunities for birdwatchers to observe them at different times of the year.
Social Dynamics: Dark-Eyed Juncos are social birds that often form flocks, especially during the non-breeding season. These flocks can include other species of sparrows, creating a lively and dynamic birdwatching experience. Observing their interactions, from foraging together on the ground to engaging in brief aerial displays, provides insight into their intricate social structure.
Foraging Behavior: Dark-Eyed Juncos are primarily ground foragers, hopping and scratching for seeds, insects, and other small invertebrates. They are frequent visitors to backyard bird feeders, where they eagerly partake in seeds such as millet and sunflower. Their adaptable feeding habits contribute to their success in diverse environments.
Melodious Songs: While not as vocally complex as some of their songbird relatives, Dark-Eyed Juncos are known for their sweet, trilling songs. These melodious tunes are often heard during the breeding season and contribute to the overall charm of these birds. Each subspecies may have slight variations in their vocalizations, adding an extra layer of intrigue for those attuned to their calls.
The Dark-Eyed Junco, with its distinctive appearance, diverse geographical range, and captivating behaviors, holds a special place in the hearts of birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you encounter them in your backyard or on a woodland hike, taking the time to observe and appreciate these delightful birds enhances our understanding of the intricate tapestry of the natural world.
Don't worry, I'll put down some before and after shots just in case you want your walkways to look as cool as the MOAM's.
Here is the MOP. (Method of Operation for those of you who are not PMP's.)
Portland cement is typically not used as a primary ingredient in paint because it is a fine powder that, when mixed with water, hardens into a solid structure. Instead, paint is made using a different set of ingredients, such as pigments, binders, solvents, and additives. However, Portland cement can be used to make a type of paint called "cement paint" or "whitewash," which is often used for coating masonry surfaces like walls and fences. Here's a basic recipe for making cement paint:
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Safety Precautions: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, when working with cement and other materials.
Mixing: To make cement paint, mix Portland cement and water in a ratio of about 1 part cement to 1 part water. You can adjust the ratio slightly to achieve the desired consistency. Add lime if desired, but it's optional.
Stir Thoroughly: Use a mixing tool, like a stir stick or a drill with a paddle attachment, to thoroughly blend the cement and water. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth and consistent paste-like consistency.
Application: Apply the cement paint to the masonry surface using a brush or a roller. Make sure the surface is clean and free of dust, dirt, and loose particles before applying the paint. Multiple coats may be needed for proper coverage and protection.
Drying: Allow the cement paint to dry. The drying time may vary depending on environmental conditions, but it typically takes a few hours to a day for the paint to set.
Additional Coats (Optional): If needed, you can apply additional coats to achieve the desired finish and level of protection.
It's important to note that cement paint is different from traditional paints in terms of appearance and application. It tends to have a rough texture and is typically used for functional purposes, such as providing a protective coating for masonry surfaces. It is not suitable for painting on surfaces like wood or metal, which require different types of paint.
