Field Notes for June

Welcome back to Field Notes!

June 1, 2024

I started a new solar dyeing project, using the bracts that I collected from a Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) last Christmas. The plant was a gift from our gardener, Mr. Nygren, and was an especially vibrant red color. The growers' label described that the Aztecs used poinsettia bracts to create a pink-purple dye, which sounded like a fun project to try. I collected the bracts as they fell off the plant and let them air dry.

Solar dyeing with Poinsettia bracts - salt mordant (day 1)

I'm using a single dish towel (WOF is 2.7 ounces/77 grams) that has been scoured, mordanted with salt, brightened with ammonia, and previously dyed with cabbage. I collected .7 ounces/20 grams of dried bracts, so the WOF% is 26%. Dyers typically recommend equal weight of fabric and plant material when solar dyeing, but I intend to dye for a couple of weeks, which may compensate by extracting more color. I added 2 teaspoons of alum to the dye bath. So far, I'm loving the color!

June 4, 2024

We've been observing our bird buddies via camera over the past month. It is fascinating to watch their feeding and interacting behaviors. Our most frequent visitors appear below, and include the Oak Titmouse (adult and juvenile), House Finch, Scrub Jay, and Chestnut-backed Chickadee (not shown is the Dark-eyed Junco).

Our bird buddies

June 7, 2024

My first Over-the-Hills Gang hike! I've been eligible for a long time, but I finally joined an over-the-hills group hike in the Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park. The 55+ group meets monthly to explore the Regional Parks, and to learn about nature, history, and fitness. Mari (retired colleague and friend), Gaymond (new friend), and I joined the June hike, lead by Anthony Fisher. We had the best time hiking in the cool shade of the redwoods with a group of about 40 walkers. The pace and company was excellent (and someone brought cookies)! Check the website to learn more about upcoming events at Reinhard Redwood.

Hiking through the redwoods on a hot day

June 10, 2024

Saw this beautiful mural in Montclair today. The train seems to spring to life from its flat surface! Need to find out more info about the Railroad Trestle Mural Project, by muralist John Pugh! 

New mural in the Montclair district in Oakland, CA

June 13, 2024

I'm heading back to Juneau, Alaska today, for some more family time. This time I'm flying solo, because Aunt Char is travelling to Boston by way of Phoenix. She is such a jet setter! I'll miss her company but will look forward to hearing all about her adventures.

Back to Alaska!

June 19, 2024 🌞

Tomorrow is the summer solstice, and the longest day of the year! Even though summer starts "virtually" with the Memorial Day weekend, it "technically" starts on June 20 this year. Enjoy the new season!