Holy cow! We had no idea what we were getting into…or what we’d have to crawl ourselves out of!  Traveling up for a short stay and a Meatloaf concert, we were looking to do a little exploring and find something fun to do in the Lake Region of New Hampshire. Rummaging through all the tour guides and vacation pamphlets, we stumbled upon Polar Caves Park just off Route 25 in Rumney, New Hampshire. Grabbing a couple bananas and some bottled water, we  headed out.

Ever since I was a small child, I would lose myself in an imaginary world captured by the ongoing lives of strangers. Driving home from a day at the lake, I’d hang, chin on fore arm, out the window, inhaling bugs and staring into the windows of the homes along the way. Often seeing the blue glare of a TV screen or the fluorescent gleam of a kitchen light, I’d think …what are these people doing now? Are they happy or sad? Young or old? Do they have children? Grandchildren, maybe?  Quickly, I’d scope yards and driveways looking for any clues that might give me further insight into their lives. And, in a flash, it would all be gone. Perhaps this is why I am so fascinated today by the many New England mansions, castles, and historic homes that we are fortunate to have in our region. Thanks to various historical societies and preservation organizations, many of these landmarks have been beautifully preserved, restored, and continue to be maintained throughout the years. One such home that stands out to me, is the Thomas Plant house, formally called Lucknow, but currently know now as  Castle in The Clouds. Besides spectacular vistas of Lake Winnipesaukee, its notable Arts & Crafts architecture and design, and technology that was way ahead of its time, more intriguing to me than the house, is the life of the man who once lived here.

For me, fresh water fishing in New England is a fun and inexpensive way to relax by the water and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the New England outdoors. It presents an opportunity to connect with my children through interesting and productive conversations about whatever happens to be going on in their young, little lives. On other occasions, fishing serves as an outlet for quiet time and reflection; A time for us all to claim our piece of space on the bank,  cast out our lines, and say nothing at all; To breathe freely and just be. This too, is good. And of course, there's the very, ferociously competitive, fisherman in each of us who is  always ready for the challenge to outwit the fish or one another and see who can catch the biggest or the most fish for the day!

So, whether you are fishing with kids in New England, are looking to get started fishing, or are an avid angler, the following are some good resources that will provide you with helpful fishing information about what you need to know and places to fish in New England.

What is Backyard Birding?

Generally, a backyard birder can be defined as someone who enjoys seeing wild birds in their garden or patio.  A recent Fish & Wildlife  study estimates that there are 42 million U.S. backyard birders, with the average birder being 35-55+ years old, better than average income and education, and 54% being female.  Joining the ranks of backyard birders is easy, as the basic components of backyard birding are providing a variety of bird food and bird feeders, fresh water and bird houses or shelter.

Backyard Birding & Bird Feeding

Successful backyard birding begins with a properly placed and regularly stocked birdfeeder, bird feeder, or bird table. Attracting birds depends upon the type of bird seed offered, as different birds prefer different types of bird food.

Most common backyard birders supply bird seed mixes containing seeds such as millet, sunflower, safflower or thistle (or nyjer) to seed-eating birds.  Black-Oil Sunflower seed is especially popular, as it is a favorite of the popular songbird – the cardinal.  Some seed mixes also contain dried fruit and nuts.  Other wild bird food includes suet (mix of fat and seed, fruits, nuts, grubs or worms), dried fruit and insects.