I’m not sure where spring went but summer time is here. School’s out and the pools are filled with happy kids. Anywhere close to water is the place to be when the heat and humidity returns.
I have fond memories of spending my youth swimming and fishing the Greenbrier River. There’s just something about that smell and the feel of the refreshing river water that draws you back. The other evening a deer peacefully crossed the river below us pausing for a quick drink as the wildlife enjoys it as well.
The bears are on the move with mating season coming into full swing. I’ve already seen 4 so far including a small cub. Right now is the time when the sows kick the 2 year old cubs out of the house so they’re roaming around for the first time on their own. The boars are chasing after the sows like teenage boys so keep your eyes open because it’s the best time to see our state animal.
A couple of weeks ago Tara literally almost stepped on a new born fawn hiding in the tall grass. Thankfully she saw it before she put her foot down and backed away slowly. They’re cute lil fellers but it is best not to touch them and back away. Fawns don’t have any scent and it’s their defense mechanism to stay still. The little guy was lucky Tara wasn’t a coyote as they prey heavily on fawns this time of year.
Turkeys and grouse have their broods tagging along behind them learning the ways of nature. It’s always fun to watch the young wildlife and something that coincides with summer. Another thing I think of when the word summer is mentioned is the smell of freshly cut hay as you cruise along the backroads with the window down. The vibrant wildflowers growing along the roadways are pleasing to the eye. I always like to look at other people’s gardens as I drive along and think of all the tasty fresh produce that’s soon to come. So far our garden is looking great.
We’ve already been to the strawberry fields twice. There are several “pick your own” farms across the state and they’re a great place to take the family too. The blueberries will be ripe soon and we’re looking forward to a fun filled day picking more berries. After that the blackberries will be ready and Tara will have the pantry full of yummy jelly and jam.
Camping is another outdoor activity that goes along with the summer season. Just make sure you’re close to a river or lake to jump into when the daytime temperatures soar into the 90’s. I like to head to our highest mountains in the summer to escape the heat and humidity as it’s always cooler up there.
The fishing has been fantastic the past couple of weeks. Especially here in the central part of the state with the 17 year cicada hatch. The noisy critters are starting to die and their corpses are being consumed by every fish that has a mouth big enough to eat them. My one buddy witnessed a 20”+ smallmouth engorging itself on cicadas in a back wash while floating the Elk River last weekend. For the fisherman looking for a road trip and weekend getaway, right now is the perfect time to visit central West Virginia.
Summer is here and there’s a lot to see and do out there. The ticks are out in full force so check yourself after being outdoors. Deer ticks carry lyme disease which is nothing to mess around with. I have two co-workers that have it which reminds me to constantly check for them. Spraying deet around the bottom of your pant legs and shoes helps. Rubber boots work well as the ticks can’t grab a hold and climb up them.
Grab your fishing pole and head to your favorite swimming hole. Stay cool and safe this summer.
