docshark Loc: Millersville, PA

You know Corky, you're 100% right. I realize that they do need me to step up and be someone they can turn to. When it happened I couldn't. I wasn't worth anything to anybody but now I see what my obligation is to the family. And you are also right about friends and UHH family. They have all been a big help to get me where I am now. I have a lot to be thankful for. Again, have a wonderful Christmas holiday my friend.
-Doc

Swamp-Cork Loc: Lanexa, Virginia

You also, Doc and you and your family will be in our thoughts! On a lighter note, Doc, Yesterday while I was on the computer, Ellen glanced out the window and said "what's that yellow bird on the mealworm feeder?" I looked and it was a Baltimore Oriole in his best feathers--could not believe it. We had our first ever this passed spring in late March and Early April The first one in his "Sunday best' made his appearance and about 3 weeks later another one appeared that was really molting and they stayed a combined time of about five weeks!-----But for one to make an appearance now, no way. I was hoping that he would stay at least another day so broke out my trusty camera this morning and did get a few shots of him on the feeder but had only one chance when he was on a limb and blew it Also had many bluebirds--unbelivable! Will try to post several soon but don't think images are of the best quality!

docshark Loc: Millersville, PA

I used to see Orioles when I was mowing my Mother-in-Law's yard and at a stream I go to in the next county. Just Beautiful. We also see Orchard Orioles at certain spots on the Delaware River when I take groups of teachers up to the Poconos for a course. Looking forward to seeing them. Since I live in the woods, in 35 years I've not seen Bluebirds at the feeders a or in the yard. Thanksgiving two years ago while I was cooking I just happen to look up at the upper terrace in the yard and there were 13 Bluebirds hunting in the grass. Probably droppings from the feeder. Pretty cool.
-Doc

Swamp-Cork Loc: Lanexa, Virginia

Yes, I agree and both species are beautiful Doc. We've had bluebirds nesting for quite a few years but after fledging sometimes we did not see many, so decided to try dried mealworms,and purchased a little wire basket put some worms in and waited. Before to long chickadees, titmice, wrens, and nuthatches were feeding from it, but seemed to take the bluebirds a little longer, probably a month or so, but once found they visited frequently. Then one day in late march we looked on that feeder and there was the oriole and they kept returning, always to the mealworm feeder. I cut a orange in half and took a section of aluminum wire ad made a hanger for it but it was about two weeks before they started using it, and they still feed from the mealworm feeder frequently. Since then I've learned that they really like grape jelly, so I just purchased a small hanging holder yesterday-- haven't seen any takers yet, but really think the ticket to begin with is the mealworms, and it may take a while, but if any bluebirds find them, you are in the money!

sailorsmom Loc: Souderton, PA

Doc, have you ever seen Erv's work with carving? He's amazing!

docshark Loc: Millersville, PA

Yes I have. They are amazing. He is quite the master when you can take a picture and transfer the image to a wooden carving. I have a friend that carves Santas. I said "Bob that's wonderful. How do you do that?" He said "It's very simple, you find a nice block of wood and then carve away anything that doesn't look like Santa!" Wise guy!
-Doc

Photosmoke

Wow, Corky , I had no idea you had such an amazing talent. That is fantastic, how long have you been carving decoys. What do you do with them, do you sell any. I would like to see some more.

cheineck Loc: Hobe Sound, FL

Nice job!!!

Swamp-Cork Loc: Lanexa, Virginia

Thanks Phil, and that was about 20 years ago, and a complete home could have been built in the time it took me. I probably carved about 10 and still have several, and laughed and said if I get to the point that I cannot be physically active, maybe I'd give it another shot!

WDCash Loc: Milford, Delaware, USA

This is a fantastic Wigeon.

Swamp-Cork Loc: Lanexa, Virginia

Thanks, Bill but you probably would have completed four or five in the time it took me and they would have been better, but I did really enjoy it between the times of frustration! Take care and keep up the good work, Corky