Fairfun.

...Still not believing in Fairies ?

(I might have presented this earlier sometime, but...Inspired from this recent post of ours I thought it fits well here). In case you're still suspicious...

Of course we haven't seeked any photos, or similar misleading stuffs for some evidence. Indeed, most are fakeries. At least those famous photographs from the early part of that art (ie about from 1900's or 1910s.) Them were proven fakes (many many years ago in the past). But, interestingly, lot of people choose not to believe it...and so the story did go on. And, in overall, for the majority of peoples, it likely had the positive influence.

But, I have a living proof here. It's from the Carl Barks story Scrooge's Private Island (1953).  Probably the story is "loaned" from the Hawain/Polynesian legengs and myths - and as such probably also is little worked up for the "middle-class imagination" of it's publication time (1950s). ...Anyway, says it there that the 'little-folk' (or their counter-parts on that Pacific island the story situates)  can only be seen when they're not knowing of been watched. So, the nephew (Huey?) there looks via looking-glass and sees...

...Fairies.

No question about it, there's always more than meets the eye. More than we 'choose to see', so to say. ...And 'even angels will fall', like the words on that horrible advert. (In case you'd ask for my personal opinion, I'd probably say... ;) ; [W-G.]

From diary-pages of the Part-time Vegetarian (Seq. II)

”How often, under the shadow of these rocks, 

have I shared your outdoor repasts, 

which cost no animal their lives. 

[...] Gourds full of milk, of newly laid eggs, 

of rice-cakes upon banana leaves, 

baskets laden with potatoes, with mangoes, with oranges, with pomegranates, with bananas..."

(From Paul & Virginie, a novel by Bernardin de Sainte-Pierre)

...Acc. above cited romantic figure (& forerunner social utopist/adventurer of his own times), people of the best healths maintain vegetable diets. (He even lists the pythagorians(?) and Spartacians, those much admired antique "folks". Also, acc. St. Pierre ; ”The peoples living on vegetable foods, are, of all men, the handsomest, the most vigorous, the least exposed to diseases and to passions, and whose lives last longest.” )

...If I should believe that (as such) for a fact, is a whole lot different matter, but can't say of been disappointed to my vegarian diet during these summery Months. The above cited view against the animal eating I actually thought to as cite for the latter sequel of these 'vegarian posts' (The last chapter I – at the moment - plan to devote to more 'philosophic matters' ie it shall mostly discuss the vegetarian ethics.) Each of these sequels is supposed carry some 'motto', so that makes a few good old classic 'verses', very often cited also elsewhere...and I also suppose, that people on his times (St. Pierre's) were as much eager to adopt those high ideals but far less for adopt them in practice.

Map-Butterfly - Since few recent decades it has established itself on Fennosc...But not too often can be seen on open; (I think) it prefers moisturic meadow. (For some speciality, also has two completely different looking generations at Summers.) The caterpillarts feed on nettles.

So, (Therefore having that problem from the admirable role-models and false noses now neatly solved) I also decided offer a place on this the nice and beautiful Fennoscandian butterflies. Just from reason – what like any insect enthusiasists would know – butterflies are the most exclusively vegetarians of any insect group. They're also some of most numerous, and yet; Not a single species  preys directly other animals. ...Meaning predative on their adult phases, of course. Caterpillars of some species do live as parasites at other insects nests, fx (Lycaenids in the ant nests, perhaps most famously). And, also many butterflies actually do favor digesting the minerals and liquids from rock surfaces, rotten carcasses, ao places (instead of the nectar from flowers.) – Yet, no predative species on adults. (At least acc. my knowing; And of the day-time species; And if that should still represent the most recent findings by science...The Moths perhaps are not too well known from and about, for they mostly fly only at nighttime.) 

 ...Often/sometimes that orthodoxic dietary specialisation is explained from their (relative) recent evolution – In lack of any other available ecological niches in the natures, the butterflies have evolved that strickt dependency/relation with the plants. (As actually quite a logical following from that, many, like the Moths caterpillars especially, are known being very serious pests of certain trees, food crops, etc.). Naturally, we don't have get (too) serious about this and so – for the fun of it - I just think of the butterflies as some advanced vegarians (In fact, them are among most evolutionary advanced order from insects). So let these 'idealized fairies' now give us some guidance from the sustainable diet and all the other good things in life... (Although, I've yet to see any wearing that Foxglove-hat.)

Anyway, during these diets of mine (and, much like I expected/ You might have guessed...), I've found it not any kind of trouble living without meat past these summery Months. A bit more surprising (to me) is that...I've also discovered feeling somewhat better and healthier due because that. Yet, I've fx noticed that living mostly on veggies demands some properly maintained system and...I've probably eaten my meals on more regular scheduel, perhaps.

As I've probably also eaten a bit more often (and slightly more by amount), gives me a place for an additional joke (If you allow me this comparison...:) Probably, earlier I ate little like a (large) bird, but now I'm eating even more continuosly and steadily, like some ruminant or a horse. (But, I don't have any additional stomachs, of course.)

Mostly/mainly this manner from eating because I regularly consume quite lot physical energy on movement; walking, biking, ao. Of course, there's also regular pauses like should be for any healths sakes. ...What comes for those few physical obstacles mentioned on preceding post, they're gone (for good). But, if you have lot body mass and/or feel like running (/jogging /whatever) much, I suggest it's probably sensible start first slowly by reducing the amount of meats from diets...or smght like that.

(Like was mentioned), my diets regularly also have contained some fish. At first I planned it so because it felt necessary for body healths (contains selenium, magnesium, ao). Also, as I've eaten quite often salads outdoors, I usually also take some schrimps with them. But now having gotten little more accustomed to this 'partial veganism' of mine, I've actually noticed that one mostly can get those ingredients of elsewhere too. (Fx, the dietary selenium can be acquired from nuts, cereal, meat, mushrooms, fish and eggs, acc. the Wikip. ...From the magnesium seems it say that rich sources for that are spices, nuts, cereals, coffee, cocoa, tea, also green vegetables like spinach). And so I've also regularly eaten some seeds and nuts too. About once a week, earlier perhaps twice a week, I've eaten some fish and still do....But I've also not at all tried to replace the animal proteins with the fish (or with anything else). 

 

You might say this veganism of mine ain't too stricktly maintained, and I agree. However, if you ask me (of course you don't, but...) the balanced/ multisided diet is actually the best. ...Earlier on begins of this 'experiment' I even tried acquiring the necessary proteins from only fishes, or soya, or eggs (one week each) + the regular eaten veggies and crops – But I can't recommend that, and maybe it also brought those slight pains at my foots.

Eggs I noticed probably the least necessary part for my diet. Yet, I've also eaten them (quite) regularly, maybe 1-2 pack per week (...of 6 parcel. On occasional weeks I've eaten about that 1 per day, sometimes more, but on some weeks I ate eggs not at all. ...So I guess the said makes about an average. Yet to mention that them appear quite useful on many bakings.)

From the Soya I at first was slightly shun, trying perhaps favor fx the fish and eggs instead. But now I've noticed it a good addition and there's on our times also quite many products of the soya available. (So, that Yoghurt recipe on last post actually now has important part on my current diets.) Then there's also various other soya-products; for example there's grains, slices, tofu, some (soya-)milks, and the sole beans for to cook (make any of the previous by oneself, if wish...) ...Having experimented most of the manufactured Soya-products, I must say I didn't learn to like any of them, except the Soya-Yoghurt and -milk. The soya-sausages and '-beefs' I actually noticed best to avoid for them make one's stomach feel so swelled...but, on a few times I also made a 'quick' meal of those. ...To some conclusion; Unless you have some good alternatives for the soya – and I can't figure what - it's probably necessary eat some (In case maintaining any absolute vegarian diet).

Small Copper. 

(...It's range even reaches from West Euraasia to N.americas.)

In short, what from this 'experiment' (so far) now turns out, as the foremost finding, is that it's basically not necessary at all to have meats on the diet of human personnel (Of the adult, obviously, I've not changed my view about that for the under-aged it's probably recommendable to eat some meat.). I've felt completely and satisfactorily eaten, even without the red meats or poultry.

 ...However, my conclusions are also based solely on maintaining this 'dietary experiment' at conditions of our technologized modern world. (On circumstances where we basically have enough, even excess of the foods...and not need consume very much physical energy on the movement between places, fx.) I don't fx consider rational spending the winter time on similar diet, I feel like it's more practical eat at least some meat then, mainly because of the cold. On cooler regions and during the cold phase of the year some amount of animal proteins and fat is probably useful for body-health. But, not quite so on the warmer parts of the world – I guess, I'd say...ca from 50^th latitudes Southwards about. (Or, perhaps it's more proper say that on the regions where's no colder winter spell.) Aforementioned reservations met – not very much daily physical stresses and the adequate provisions of the food in general – I see not any physical necessicity to (an adult) personnel for eating meats. Of course, I don't either feel like one should have to be too determined or absolute from that...but that's just the plain fact I discovered from this. (...What follows as the logical conclusions is that for a personnel living at our developed world societies, leaving the animal foods for less is probably not just most efficient 'sustainable step' one can do, if wish, but also the easiest some.)

- I suppose you're now humming to yourself; 'But that's just not for me' ...Well, me neither, I don't plan to quit the beefs and meatballs completely, I just mean to reduce those, considerably.

Chestnut He

ath

...Also a straight  vegetarian.

(The caterpillars feed on hays.)

The following 'list' then tries combine most other ingredients of (my) regularly consumed veggies and food-stuffs:

...Of crops I have to say eaten from quite wide variety; (I think) the people didn't start cultivating them by coincidence, many – wheat fx, contain lots of energy.

(Even that the white bread solely is rather unrecommendable food choice.) And; invariably I've also regularly eaten rice, rye, oat, quinoa (,maize, on tortillas), at least ; ...Of the seeds, nuts and milk-products I mentioned on the preceding post (I've used butter less frequently now). ; ...Of my main other 'usual veggies', there's at least, onions & peppers, also spinach. (Ate that often on Spring.) And I suppose shall also use mangold when it becomes harvestable (/Ward, possibly also the word used from it.)

Of the same 'family' there's also this favored tuber of mine, beet. And, of course, carrots, squashes, beans and potato make some of my regular staples (Potatoes I've intentionally mostly tried avoid for those are so common on every other meal; mashed potatoes, french fries, crisps... Still, I guess I've eaten them relative often) ; ...Also I've regularly bought some exotic imported ”delicacies” like the avocados and cassava – and also consumed those usual (imported) fruits like the oranges, pears (and apples), lemon, grapefruit, water melon, banana...In fact, fresh fruits are very important to eat by somewhat. ; ...Of cabbages (and other veggies not yet mentioned) I've probably mostly used broccoli, celery, and swede (and asparagus, of course.) ; ...Various fungi also, every once in a while (Mushrooms mostly, but occasionally some other when available.)

Along with the sometimes bought ready-mades (mixed salads and vegetable stakes mostly) – those were about my main ingredients on dinners. Also pasta I've eaten quite often (w. pesto/bolognese sauce). When eating outdoors I've usually favored salad, more rarely veggie-pizza or soups. The Berries weren't yet that much available - but soon you can harvest of the blueberries, raspberries, gooseberries, blackberries…

Sweets and other sugarines I don't count but likely I've eaten those relative much (but probably lot less than before beginning this.)

Black-Veined White

...And equally much a straight vegarian. Not too common species, but during flight time, on suitable places emergences sometimes in abundance. (Here on Meadow Crane's-bill.)

”Confezziones” 

 /...During this 'experiment of diets' – that I began from the mid of March - my only dietary exceptions were the following:

 On 9.5 ...I ate a one chicken leg (From my refrigerator and by the excuse from avoiding wasting the excess food. However, it tasted pretty awful.) 

14.5; I ate a batong sandwich (with ham) ...with the excuse from needing a pic of some meat-product to this post as comparables to veggies (Changed my mind from the 'decorations' later then...)

27.5; To offer myself English breakfast I made some from eggs, marmalade and two slices of bacon. (Tasted relative good...Although I had no beans or toasted bread at the moment to it)

14.6 ...Ate one cold sausage, with the excuse from avoiding any waste of foods. (Didn't taste very good, neither bad, just a...sausage.)

On 22.6 ...Ate left-overs from the grilled steak (Prepared for the Mid-Summer feast, and about half-eaten)

30.6 ..Ate a complete steak (of pork)...With the excuse from returning from quite exhaustive stays at the countrysides. (It tasted like typical service station food – Meaning, didn't taste much anything. Yet, as I was quite hungry it wasn't too bad...But not very recommendable either.)

...And soforth, that was about all of the foods and dinners at the Diary page 2 of the part-time vegarian. Final chapter shall (mostly) discuss from and about the ethics for vegetarian diet. I try to find some good exert to cite on begins of that...And no place for recipes this time, so the suggestion is to make some veggie-lasagne (I used for that some onion, swede, beets, fungi, chard + spices etc). The final part...about the harvest time, late August/ October perhaps.
Happy trails! ; [W-G.]

The Muleskinner Book Recommendation #34

The Shrinking World: Ecological consequences of Habitat Loss
By Ilkka Hanski
(2005. International Ecology Institute)


[Recommendation(s) II / 2012]

This present sequel on our book recoms is yet from the Conservation biology (Or books of the Natures in overall, et similar topics, already well presented prior this). But appears it that this selection is a book about population ecology and I think it has lots to say. Just due because I am not  too much familiar with the subject, I try to keep this recommendation brief.

Heath Fritillary (Melitaea Athalia) 
; Fairly common on Fennoscandian Nature, 
but lot declined on fx Great Britain.
(...And, a species adapted to cultural landscape, 
so re-establishing traditional 
agroforestry practices,
was there found favoring it's recovery)

Population ecology emphasizes largerly (/or mostly) on the study of dispersion, or perhaps disappearance, of animal species natural environment (often that's described on terms as Habitat loss.) Seems it said that the formerly prevailing, or at least more common, on population biology were the studies about ecological niches singular species occupy. Or alternatively, studies of the biotic communities separate species can form on any particular habitat(s) were more usual. Since about 1970s the focus (of researches) has been on Habitat loss, and it's consequences. ...Term appears probably easily understandable and also is actually a recognizable 'phenomenom' on almost anywhere of the current World; The human developments continuously extend for and limit the original Natural landscape to more fragemented parts. So, not very unsurprisingly fx various species capability to survive at the human altered habitats is some from the main concerns of it (ie of ecology), nowadays. I guess, the name of the book - Shrinking World – in it's entity, quite strikingly describes just that.

Of the books content I can't offer a too precise summarization, possibly. It's (relative) usual readings for the conservation biologists (et similar), likely, but the metapopulations (-study, or -dynamics) aren't too straightforward understandable topics for any common reader. There's fx quite much from the spesific methodology; formulations for calculating any singular species metapopulation capacity on any local spot of it's living habitat(s). Many things can affect for a population enflourishing or diminishing; The other species, migration/immigration to and away from that spot, etc... And so, it's said that any view from the expected/projected development from metapopulations always is an estimate. Yet, the theory aims to predict at which circumstances species can survive in the fragmented habitat.

Most examples at book are from the Northern boreal forest. Also, major part of the singular case studies, or metapopulation examples, are of researches by Hanski's (and his pupils) of the Fennoscandian Checkerspots (Melitaeinae); Their some butterfly species that - similarly as elsewhere on Europes – are found have declined/diminished along the disappearance of the former 'traditional landscape' and ending of the 'old time' farming practices. But then there's also wide variety other studies and examples referred, actually from many other parts of Globe. (Fx; from Costa Rica, Amazon - or the rainforests in general, from observed changes at adaptations of the urban birds on Europes cities during some decades scale, from various microhabitats of Palearctic forests, etc..)

However, the general reader probably does well to familiarize with concept from extinction debt. In short, and like the book also compactly acknownledges, in the fragmented habitat the survival (of species) appears secured only if new metapopulations form fast enough and close for the original living area - to replenish the disappearing some. So, unless the extinction debt isn't compensated by creation of suitable environments where specimens can move to, the 'debt' realizes as species losses (by varying extent and also often can happen during longer timescales projected for the futures.)

...But I don't claim this to represent but a few of the things discussed at the book more in particular. There's fx chapter on how the conservation areas would best be designeted in the light of the study of metapopulations, ao. Certainly, it's informative book and well readable, although some of the stuff is rather complex. Or, so I felt when reading it, since many concepts aren't too straightforward understandable without former biologist/naturalist backgrounds or education. (Very probably, of course, there is nowadays also several comparable books from metapopulation research.)

Now, having promised to keep the recommend short, I'll just cut this off for these few paragraphs. And further no sequels of the biology/naturalist books...Even though, I might happen find something of interest about the insects, and in that case...:)  [/W-G.]

From Diary Pages of the Part-Time Vegetarian (Part I)

”The Soul gets the better of the body,
after wasting illness or when a vegetable diet
may have mingled too much ether in the blood.

Vapors then rise up to the brain
and take the shapes that often image falsehood,
but sometimes truth.”

- The Blithedale Romance by Nathaniel Hawthorne (1852)

Was briefly referred on our earlier post, that I was planning some vegetarian diet. Now that I've been (mostly) on veggies for some Months, I'll here makes some series of (short) commentaries from experiences and feelings arised from that.  (You might notice that I'm not following any too strickt vegetarian order, fx I'm eating fish, eggs and milk-products by somewhat. Actually I've only decided to exclude – almost completely – the poultry and meats of my dietary choices. Also due because I was in the Spring exercising relative much, I've not tried to keep this 'experiment' at too absolute. But so far I've actually kept stricktly on this partial vegetarism.)

My motives  to try this kind of diets were mostly ideological, intentional avoidance of the unhealthy foods and - as much as that is possible - avoid the (so called) factorized foods of that 'meat-chain'. Also this was practical choice; Veggies make easy preparable (and cheap) choices as foods. Principal reasons maybe also from the ecological motives, but then this is also a philosophical experiment; 'To eat better is to lead a better life', to loan a most compact and simple statement on this (a phrase, So to say...) However, I've not intentions of complete changing to vegetarianism – even considering the formerly discussed points-of-views of domesticated animals and foods production (I guess I'm just not that motivated, So to say...) But it doesn't seem too unthinkable to limit my consumption of red meats et similar for a period of time. I didn't eat those too much even earlier, but I've not before much tried any vegan diets either.
(Also, it's perhaps noticeable that for anyone like me, living in the developed societies, this is rather easily maintained diets; Significance of it arises just from the fact that we don't have any actual lack of foods here. Wouldn't consider anything like this at the different circumstances. So, this also has ethical motive.)

At this and some later posts I – sort of – try representing some impressions about my physical and mental impressions in during this 'diet' (I plan it to last until the  Autumn.) Brief observations based on this dietary experiment; the feelings, dislikes, or whatever...
Sort of putting at the practice some bad old methods of the behavioral sciences (past 'sect' on the psychology, et similar...), but – instead of observing some guinea pigs – turning that careful scientific watching eye for to observe myself. As you can see, actually this makes just some plain science. (When with the term science is meant solely some empirical methods and results of the lab tests, mostly). However, I'm going on this experiment without laying the consequences  for anyone else's carrying...As for some difference of the favored practice here at the MSW.

...Now, on basis of the preceding paragraph(s) you might think that I'd be considering this for some burden or obstacle, but the truth is quite contrary. Of course, the vegatarism isn't any manner exceptional or rare any more, these days. Most (sensible) people probably think that as much common place as any other habits or everyday choices people do make. Nowadays it's possible, at least on many places/restaurants,  to choose from the vegetarian alternative and also appears (almost) as regular phenomenom like some typical hobbies, (fx jogging, snobbing, diving) – So to say.
Then; On the other hand there's often those everlasting discussions about the pros and cons of veganism (versus meat-rich diets). ...And that claimed necessity or unnecessity of the regular consumption of animal proteins (on human diets). So: If just find the following some bore of the same, part of that never-ending discussion, you can simply bypass these rhetoric questions that I'm asking here from myself at the following. (You can bet your shirt that I'm not trying to claim myself having any neutral opinion about this; You can actually decide from that by yourself on basis our former writings of the foods, meats, etc...)

In during this (partly) vegarian diet, have I felt any weakness or lack of strenght, since I having left the meats out of my foods?

No, not at all. More like I've felt feeling better and healthier of physical condition. Have felt – So to say – more from that 'Lightness of being' (to loan a phrase from name of that popular book by  Milan Kundera. This lightness hasn't felt any manner unbearable, however.) Generally, it feels to me also that eating (somewhat) lighter makes you feel also more optimistic, or smtgh like that...

Have I felt some eagerness to have some meat; Or have I felt any continuous hunger or need to have some meat to chew?

Answer to this also no, not at all. Actually, I've felt very increased dislike towards any meats. I'd say, that on begins of this I was perhaps a bit concerned if was I eating enough, especially from the proteins part, etc. Yet, soon after my body seems been accustomed to this (partial) vegetarism and now I feel no taste for any red meats at all. Of course, like you might be reminded, I've maintained quite much comparables on my diet (fish, schrimps, soya, ...). ...But, I think that the argument from that (claimed) desperate need for animal meat is just a false propaganda of the foods and slaughterhouses industries...So to say. Simply crap. (Some H*******t, so to say.).

And, have I felt any aches or pains on my body parts during this experiment of mine?

Oddly, this is the only question for which the answer is yes (at least slightly). Reasons why are not quite clear to me. Possibly, it may be due from that I've certainly exercised lot more in during the Spring-time than I would in the Summers, so it's maybe just some little aches on my old bones from that...And, I've come to a conclusion that it's at least sensible avoid too heavy exercise at this kind of diet. It hasn't prevented me from going on my regular joggings and skiing (...but everyone possibly has one's own best suitable amounts of the physical stress, found by trial and error, so to say.)  But, if you continuously do some heavier physical task/works I wouldn't propably recommend from complete abstainment of the animal foods part.

...But I guess, I'll have to let the time show if this latter rhetoric question has any relation for my vegetable diets. 

...Partly related to aspects on above paragraphs (perhaps) is the issue from necessity of milk-products on human diets. However,  it can't be blamed of these (little) 'pains and aches' on my case, for so far I've also consumed milk quite regularly - About  acc. the adviced amounts by Health Department (or whatever the name of the official...), couple glasses a day at least (and/or cheese and yoghurt). ...Finally, whatever might be the truth about that Osteoporosis, mentioned for an increased disease on Western societies, fx Saffran Foer on that book of his seems say that there's actually most osteoporosis at countries of world where people eat most milk-products. But I've not any clear opinion or view from that...

All things said for this time, but this seem leave not any place for food favorites  on this part. So, I'll just mention having 'traded' those meat products for to eat (ao foods) quite much of the seeds and nuts (all kinds of.) Also, during summers I plan to eat more berries and fruits, along w. other vegetarian food.  
- A good morning/evening 'snack' I did find from some mag: Pour together some Sunflower seeds, Peanut-/Cashew-Nuts, Flax seeds, Sesame seeds, and crush them together. Then mix that to some Soya-yoghurt and enjoy for breakfast. (There's nowadays lot of these soya-products on sales at the market. Some I've noticed quite eatable, some are just simply awful acc. my tastes. If not following an exclusive vegarian diet, it's not necessary use soya on this and that can be replaced for some natural yoghurt, if wish.)

(END OF DIARY PAGE ONE.)

MuleSkinner Book Recommendations # 33

"The wages of sin,
the reward of fear,
is worrying and fretting
every second of the day.

The Church and the State,

your God and Countrykind,

One gets your body,

the other gets your mind."

Bob Walkenhorst ; The Wages of Sin



The day of the Underdog
By Ronald Chetwynd-Hayes

(p. 1977 ... From a collection
that seems named as Tales of Fear and Fantasy)

[Recommendation(s) I / 2012]

Like renown, combination from the horror and humor is a populous realm, but also quite difficult to master with some satisfactory result. (Likewise, I've noticed, that combination from humor and science-fiction is equally rare mixture, even that it's probably relative common from attempts... I can't actually think any other succesfull examples than perhaps some stories by Stanislam Lem (1921-2006) ; But probably there are several writers of that. However, this short-story from Ronald Chetwynd-Hayes (1919-2001), seems enjoy at least some 'fame' amongst popular classics on late 20th century horror. (Certainly is some of my own favorites, from mentioned sort.)

From the other writings of Chetwynd-Hayes I'm less aware of; the brief introduction on the book I picked this from only mentions him to belong at older generation of the British ghost story author's (book seems publiced at the 1970s). Back catalogue also seems provide fx some collections of vampire tales, etc.  

Even considering that we've probably presented more than our adequate share of the horror fiction on this, the story's merited w. place on these recommends. ...(possibly) I can further defend it's place also by noticing that any examples of the good short-stories have actually been few (at these series). Prior this, I think, not any selected for actual recommendation text/story. ...Unless you'd count on those that formerly presented master-piece by Chekhov;  Also a "horror-tale" (from 19th century, though), sometimes reviewed here, but never seen since... 

Too lenghty paragraphs aren't needed to praise this story. It's enough short and compact, and well invented, also 'creepy' enough. (Creepy, at this case, means both awfully realistic and also containing the supernatural element.) Enough to make you feel it having some unpleasant familiarity to our life's everyday tasks...and relations, so to say. 

So, if you fx have a boss (luckily, at the moment I consider myself a boss of my own, thanks for 'the higher powers'...), it's a good laughable story to offer and watch the reaction afterwards. (; On a second thought - unless you think you know your boss well enough - perhaps better not to show the story her/him. You might not know from his/her preferences from humor in particular, or precisely at least.) But it's a  good, recommendable reading, to the very creepy end, anyway. (; W-G)

( The latest posts! - @ Mulskinner Blog @ )


----------
Powered by ScribeFire.

"Unconditionally guaranteed"

Probably it's more intentional than coincidential nearly half  from these stories about Fennoscandian insect been of the butterflies. The butterflies fx are among most easily tolerated insect species of the human point-of-view - Quite differing on that from the example at that former sequel about coastal areas. However, this post takes brief look for an environment populated by various insect, along many invertebrates, there occurs also fx amphibians, birds, etc.; The environment referred being the marshland. (Due because this post also is somewhat plentiful of words, presented on it's own sequel too.)

　

The Fennoscandian marshes are most distinguishable from their great variety of bio-types. The ecologic literature separates nearly as many marshtypes (precisely 72) than there is various different forest environments (about over 80). There are (fx) so called open bogs, and marshes that can grow some trees (but scarcely). Common terms on English are fx Swamps, backwoods, bogs, fens...depending from whatever more specifically meant or the from the ecological criteria used; But generally their places recognized for the marshlands. (I guess, that the bogs possibly appears closest term from common English, but also on Fennoscandia many marshtype differs from that much, and the variety of the biological terminology actually was developed to distinguish between that variety...So for simplicity reasons we at this mostly just use on the word marshes). Worth mention, perhaps, that it's not surprising find on some very old European maps and documents the region described for the marshlands (alternating with description as 'the forested wilderness') .

And, noticeable also (is)  that the marshes on North Fennoscandia considerably differ from their counterparts at the more Southern regions (Now the Lappland mentioned, one can't then leave completely out of mention at this text the blackflies, renown little insect nuisances and most populous at those regions on a certain periods from year...)

There's many ways how marshes can form, but the resulting peatland is typically moisturic, ecologically relative harsh environment.  Yet, on marshes grow fx many very appreciated, valuable berries – most renown being probably the Arctic Cloudberry (Rubus Chamaemorus). Mainly grows at the Lappland (...favoring mostly colder climates and the berry ripening at Autumn. Noticeably, it is especially considered a berry of the marshes and so many from it's various names on Finnish ('Suomuurain', fx) contain a prefix for the marshes.) Then there's various other popular berries at marshes (most belong to Ericaceae, ie them are small shrub-plant and ground level twigs of heathers). Mainly them favor rather moisturic soil but some as well are common to grow on the nearby forests; Very typical for natural marshes are fx Cranberry (Vaccinium oxycocos), then there's Northern bilbong (V. Uligonosum), Blueberry (V. myrtillus), Lingonberry /Cowberry (V. Vitis-idaea). ...To name some of the most popular. On the other hand - one can also find from marsh many poisonic plants; (ao) there's fx Ledum palustre, Andromeda polifolia (ie; 'Bog rosemary'), Equisetum palustre, Calla palustris ('Bog Arum'), Myrica gale ('Bog Myrtle'), Deucedenum palustre... Some of the mentioned also have traditionally been plants at the human uses, for it sometimes varies what parts of the plant contain toxics, and by which amounts; Fx, it is said flowering of the Bog Arum being very toxic, but the leaves (/and some other parts) having in the past been used for the flours, at places.

Also, not perhaps surprisingly, the marshes are said forming probably oldest environments at Fennoscandia (or, some that have remained least disturbed by the human efforts since the retreat of ice from N. Europe, closely over 9000 years ago, about.) ...As some kind reminder from this aspect is the capability of marshes for to preserve wooden artefacts and materials. Among other things some old wooden boats, parts of ancient sledges, ao, have been found from the marshland soils. These prehistoric equipments - due because having sunk there and remained on little decayed condition - have sometimes been dated very old by origin...Old by the human timescales/perspective, of course.

All the aforementioned considered, noticeably marshes are some from most unique environments on the Fennoscandian Nature.

Or, they were and remained so until rather recent of times, about the late 20th century. Nowadays (fx) fewer parts from the original marshlands at South Finland remain, at least in their natural condition. (It is said that about some 75 per cent from those appears drainaged, and major part was for the forestry purposes). Ecologically considering during very brief period, mostly just from 1960 until about mid 80s (the drainage been most intensive between 1965-75). There's been some uses of peat for heating (/energy source) from since the 19th century (at least), but the majority of that ecologic conversion is by the recent timing. Kind of an abrupt enviromental decline, if observed from it's main ecological consequences, ( - A process, sometimes on environmentalist literature described for the worst environmental disaster ever having taken place at the Finlands nature...If one can - or would,  at this case - point out any rapid and separately observed singular process.) Results of that were and are more wide-reaching than one would at first place think. (Mostly, all this seems just tell of the failure not to recognize any actual value of the Nature itself, and neglect of see/place any value on a view-point that there should be places where the human purposes not need extend for in the first place.)

From the North (Lapplands) marshes mostly weren't converted nearly to similar levels. In the North wood fx grows much slower, so it would not even have brought any gains on economic forestry purposes. (Additionally, it seems also vary considerably from how well the trees appear grow – or, not to grow – on any of the former natural marshes and soils from the S.Fennoscandias). On the Lapplands case one then also sometimes sees mentioned of the various other typical human purposes which have often been shown having had negative effects for the original wetlands ecology; The mining purposes, the uses of peat (at energy production), perhaps the most often noticed some. (Both represent some causes of ecological harms at various parts of the world, too;  The other polluting to water systems and the latter from being harmful due because climatic reasons...ao aspects.)

Insects are also usually mentioned example, for there are several marshes-dependent species, and, consequetly several suffered of the described (developments). Also, some that were rather common earlier on S. Fennoscandia having declined. Examples observed of the several insect main orders; (fx, the Lepidoptera, Orthoptera, Araknea, all contain some that having become lot scarcer, resultatively) ...In fact, there's also species that aren't/weren't classed for the threatened just due because the larger parts from the Northern marshes remained (mostly) free of the drainages.

More generally, the largest change was seen at the changes on ecology from the open bogs (or the significant decline of those). So, there's also fx various common marshland plants that were found from noticeably decline, and resultatively also replaced by somewhat differing vegetation Seems it said that of the Finlands natural plants, some 25 per cent appear species by origin to  grow on  marshes (or closely similar types from environments).

...From since the 1990s the drainages from any new area to forestry uses seems said (practically) having halted, but ecological consequences remain on effect. There still is (a few, but some) remaining larger natural marshlands on S.Fennoscandia, and naturally them are nowadays mostly protected. Also, the Fennoscandian forests contain various parts of the 'semi-marsh lands'; ie there's places on the main forests with somewhat moisturic, swampy soil prevailing. Or perhaps even more typical are some places where edges of the shallower lakes and ponds form resembling smaller regions of a 'marsh-like' environment, limiting for the adjacent forests. Sometimes it's (relative) easy find a that kind place of the forest from a few minutes walk. Yet, much less of those on the S. Finlands part nowadays than some 50 years (or about) ago.

All things considered, afterwards viewing these developments (like we're doing on this), it leaves as topmost feeling an impression from a very unconditional determinism...But the same can of course be said of the most human developments that seek of to maximize uses from the natural resource(s).

(And, of course, there's also nowadays efforts of restoration the former natural ecology from those places, actually. Also, there's restoration from various other types of environments, where ecology has been disturbed from the forestry development, or from since the longer at pasts; The natural springs, et similar watery sources, not too common nowadays on the original condition at S. Fennoscandias and therefore also referred on this.)

---

The butterflies - and the daytime butterflies by some amount - are among the most numerous insect genera by species, so it's expectable to find them from marshes too. For this we basically also could have selected any species more considerably affected by the drainage of marshes. (But I've not had too much a chance to visit any marsh on summer, neither having any suitable pic of those).

Cranberry blue 
(..See the inner oversides from wings,
 the photo can hardly catch the actual colour....)  

So, this exemplary selection – like most of the insects and plants presented on our series – is generally quite common a species (in particular on the Lapplands marshy regions, where it is said possible encounter at most everyplaces.). Many of the Lycaenids – group from those little blue-winged butterflies usual at meadows, flowering fields and forest – appear more variable by their pattern and decorative on wings underside, but it wasn't any difficulty selecting this particular some. (I think) the Cranberry Blue (Vaccacinae optilete) has most beautiful colours on the overside from it's wings. There's some nice purple, the edges are more typically blue, like usual on most Lycaenids.  Though, on the females the oversides are mainly brown (and the part closer insect body more blueish than at males). (...Another nice little species to observe beautiful colours of butterly wing, more typically flying on all kinds of drier places of forest/hillsides, is the Green Hair-streak (Callophrys rubi). As it's even smaller species you need to look close, though. Actually, camera is most useful to have along for the purpose. Lycaenids, typically fly shorter distances than some larger butterflies, although them tend also take onwards quite rapidly too...)

(Cranberry Blue) appears probably the species most adapted for the marshes from these small blueish Lycaenid. (And), it is also most dependent from them for moisturic environments (I've fx noticed it present nearer the relative moisturic backwoods, or close by the lakesides with some bogs; Perhaps most typical places to it in during the summery time of flight, or seems to me so). ...Main reason, is that on the mentioned places also often grow Northern Bilbongs, usual food plant of it's caterpillars. (In that sense the English name may be little misleading, although maybe the caterpillars main food plant differs on other regions where it appears). But, from that part I guess it makes typical example, more or less, from an Oligophagy. (...The species seems also said quite invariably to use related common small shrubs, especially the Blueberry… and Cranberry.).

On elsewhere Europes many Lycaenids common from Fennoscandian range have more 'limited' appearance – like this Cranberry Blue, fx. There's also various that don't have presence on N. European part at all. Some that live on resembling environment are (perhaps) species Maculinea teleius and M. Alcon, usually found at similar mountaneous areas at the Mid-Europes (or at least somewhat resembling by the environments preferences...or seems to me so. ;Anyway, them have no presence at the Fennoscandian part). However, I also kind of calculated that solely on Finlands Nature appears there about two thirds of the North European  Lycaenids. Also is found some that've quite recently spread there – the most usual given reason is the expected accelerated warming.

----------------

...Of the plant, we have a selection from flowers (Orchids, namely). At the world-wide spread family from Orchidaceae there's many flowers adapted to moisturous lands/soil. So them are generally rather common on Fennoscandia too, where is still relative much natural marsh- and wetlands. This selection, Dactylorhiza maculata - the Moorland Orchid, or the Spotted heath Orchid, apparently from it's name(s) on English - is perhaps commonest from natural orchid at Fennoscandian nature (It also has quite wide range on elsewere Europes, more typically grows on the mountains region and similar environment from the Central European part, seems it said.)

(On Europe, the Orchids are most numerous and rich of variety on Mediterranean regions; There occurs most of the endemic species in the World. Even, if compared to some other 'bio-diversity hot-spots' elsewhere. At Mediterranean there is also some most spectacular and colourful of the species, although, many also are classed to threatened (and/ot for endangered , vulnerable, etc., ) Globally, there's also large number threatened Orchid-species, IUCN seems to have big list of them. ...And, like often from plant, some species from generally wider range may sometimes be locally declined by populations. Apparently some examle (fx) is the Creeping ladies tresses (G.repens) from the Scottands forests and highland as the species seems said to have range over the Eurasia and N. Americas, but is locally scarce.)

On Finland part, occurs there some close species to the D. Maculata, which are more particularly adapted to marsh environments, and - like expectable - them also were found lot more affected by the caused ecological changes on marshlands. Some typical Marsh orchids are fx the Dactylorhiza incarnata (the sbps cruenta and incarnata), both said become scarcer on Mid- and s. Fennoscandias as them naturally grow particularly at the wetland soils (Major part of the places where those latter mentioned species used to grow having gotten drainaged). ...Which is a pity since their are all very impressive flowers.

Dactylorhiza maculata
...Notice the flower
petals, their variations 
 are (but slight) observable on the photo.

The particular orchid discussed, D.maculata, grows on more various places. ...Also occurs fx on the lakesides and ditches. So, wasn't not nearly similarly affected (not too common a flower, either). But relative to usual to grow on some moisturic spots of  the forests, too. 

Seems it also said that the natural variety on Orchids is quite wide: Flower bloomings at same specimen show often slight differences from the shapes, if looking more precisely. Some species of the natural Orchids also easily mix; fx the D.maculata and D.traunsteineri can mix in the Natures too (Yet, I guess that this specimen in the pic yet represent a usual breed of the regular D.maculata). Also appear that the (Orchids) can often grow via their rootgrowths, soforth on a good places it is possible find larger groups (in the best circumstances...And, I guess there would be whole more about the Orchids for an interested to learn from and about... :)

Anyway, this (limited but inspired) sequel about the Fennoscandian marshes now finishes this serie of ours. It could of course have contained several other interesting insects that are not presented Fx from the insect orders Trichoptera, Coleoptera, etc., ao.  But, any subsequent 'sequel' shall mostly be from the trees, at any case. (W-G.)

 --

( The latest posts! - @ Mulskinner Blog @ )


----------
Powered by ScribeFire.

Crops, weeds and other foodstuffs...

Our  stories have generally been quite much about the foodstuffs, so here's just a few examples of my recent finding. Healthy and tasty, as usual...

"The 4th Sister"; Helianthus annuus
(Domesticated Sunflower)
...Tempts quite various insect,
and no wonder - flowering head is impressive.
...At below left (corner) wasp-mimicking fly.



In case I had to name some particularly beneficial (/or, healthysome) plant/herb my selection would - without question - be the Garlic. (...Sunflower seeds would gain a place as the  good second). Selection of the most luxurious would not either appear difficult; and I (most probably) would then say Cacao (/chocolate). Remembering that our  criteria was from the helthiest some, (various) berries would also situate high on that list.

From fruits, Avocado (or, the Alligator pear) would also rank quite well. Perhaps not just because the many vitamins and minerals, or due from the good vegetable-oils/fats it contains, but  for the overall easyness of eating avocados. (See, since my former experiments with fruits I've learned that avocados are best eaten with just a little salt and some lemon-juice...and nothing else, peeled and 'dipped' with those.) Although, one wouldn't perhaps eat them too often, but every once in a while.  

Of course they're imported foods here, most part brought from the S.American countries like Mexico, Peru, Chile...and, so I've variably favored all from those. By origin the plant grows on central America. Also seems it said shown from some excavated remains on archeological sites that the fruit has been at the human uses from at  least 10 000 B.C.  (I think it was also mentioned on some place closely some 80 per cent of the world's avocados cultivated at the Mid-America, Mexico especially. Yet, it's nowadays also grown on various parts the World, practically each continent except the Antartica, or course. I don't know whether it's due from  EU trade contracts or from some other reason - the global trade markets in overall  - but avocado-oils that I've seen on sales here appear all be New Zealandian products (unless I've just not encountered any other manufacturers products). However  from that, but the oil is  suitable on frying  because  it has  high heating temperature,  although -  as I've also noticed - generally it's too expensive on any regular uses.)

 From other aspects I (fx) find that the cultivation of avocado is mentioned quite water-consuming...although, I've no idea where that should be compared for. The cultivation of fruits and veggies generally uses lot less water than most industrial production or the growing fiber for textiles (like cotton, fx). Also, seems it (interestingly) said that from the thousands flowerings on a single avocado-tree only a few some produce the fruit (on any particular season). And, there's also various breeds at the cultivation, mostly them been created during early part of the 20th century.

 --

...The 2nd example on  my (recent)  findings on the diets is from  crops. It's Buckwheat (Fagopyrum  esculentum). Also it seems mentioned been on cultivation already several centuries prior B.C.  ...Also on the MSW it has quite long ecological history, although not has been ever so popular crop than fx at eastern Europes (Russia in particular). But nowadays it's at least on an occasional cultivation, the  flours I've bought are mentioned (at the packages) variably from domestically grown, or alternatively imports from China.  However, another reason for this example is due because buckwheat is glutein-free. It's  often recommended crop in case you have any allergies for other crops. (Most usually that means wheat, oat, etc, ...In fact, seems it also researched that because human cultivation of the crops is rather recent by origin, some people having allergies to those probably has genetic reason. It's generally quite similar as with the milk - some people lack that  lactose-decomposing gene(s)- while majority of population has the gene. But, I don't know if that's from any certainty; My own guess appears that the formerly more common use of various pesticides  probably can have had as much influence concerning the emergence of allergies from crops.)

- The recipe in this case  is  Blins (the russian crépes). Easy to prepare, and less sugarine than regular crepes. (...My cookbook seems also mention that dietarist would not find these too favored choice, for the blins are fried in much of oils. The original recipe recommends fx using ducks fat or geese's, alternatively cocos oil on that. ...But my advice is to use just a regular butter. Also, in the russian version blins are often enjoyed with some caviar, but due because it's not ecologically recommendable, again my  advice is just from some other traditional 'additions', like the gherkins, beetroot, some chopped onions (and smetan, of course.). And - by the way - honey is also good with blins.

RECIPE: 1-2 eggs (separate the yolks) ; 30 g yeast ; (about) 1 l milk ; 1/2 kg Buckwheat-flour ; 100 g Wheat-flours ; 100 g Butter/Oil (Additionally some on frying).

- (First) mix the yeast with warm milk. Add the yolk from eggs. Next flours and butter. (I've prepared this also with the flour ratio of 50/50. Another alternative is fx to use some smetan within the milk...etc., I guess the recipes vary lot according taste.) If wish, add some salt. Separately mix in the bowl the rest from eggs (without yolks) and, after a while, pour in the baking. Let rise (about 1-2 hours, at least). Make small blins (/Crepes) and fry with a plenty of butter.

...Another good crop in case from allergies is Spelt (Triticum spelta)...Although,  it's a relative of  (or, appears different variety from the) wheat; ...So, if having any actual allergies for  crops it's not recommended. Myself I've noticed it very suitable on porridges, ao. Doesn't irritate stomach as much as the wheat, in fact I've noticed it has an easing effect on the digestion. Also is domestically grown here. (...Funny thing about Spelt is that some sellers advertise it for the crop "Moses and his contemporaries" already used to grow on their fields - ie well prior B.C. - Likely that's merely a fiction than any actual fact, but at least could have been so, spelt also has been human cultivated since from some 6000 years past.)

--

Finally, my last recommended crop at this post is the Red Rice (or, Weed rice). ...It's a breed from the rice (Oryza sativa), and there's about hundreds different varieties of the rice. Name seems derive from the manner that it usually is grown as some sort of 'weed' along the more commonly cultivated varieties. Red rice is also advertised from being more vitamin rich than the 'regular' varieties. Seems have gained some popularity at the western markets more lately ...But my reason to recommend it is simple; I think it for a lot tastier than the other varieties I've enjoyed. One can also use red rice with the regular some, fx  by 1 / 3 ratio  - either way goes well. (I only buy organic rice nowadays, however.)

And that's from the foods this time.
(In the future - after summer arriving - I'm planning to go on with my experiments of the diets for a reduced use of meat on...Actually, I'm planning to go for diets with no meat at all, on during the summer months. Just for an interest. So, these foods posts will probably not continue sooner than about August. But I'll summarize my experiences of this experiment then.) ;  (G.U.J.)

( The latest posts! - @ Mulskinner Blog @ )


----------
Powered by ScribeFire.