Master Naturalist?

A colleague asked what is my dream job....I did not have to think...to be like Rudy Mancke http://www.environ.sc.edu/natural_history.html, I replied.  Reflecting upon this comment, I realized, as a biology instructor, I do have the opportunity to give it a try (leading nature walks), but the administrivia required to function as an educator monopolizes a lot of my (and my colleagues's time).  However, the administrivia makes me appreciate the opportunity to work with the students.  Speaking of teaching, some years ago, I discovered the students also have a natural affinity for discovering natural history...the best way to win them over to biology is to take them outside, with purpose.  Of course, one of the most talented naturalists, Bill Hilton Jr., already knew that http://www.hiltonpond.org/HiltonBioMain.html .  Mr. Hilton reminds us biologists, "After all, there's no use learning exciting new things about nature unless I share that knowledge with others."

Thankfully, I have the opportunity to do some professional development that is rejuvenating that innate connection we all have with nature.  I am taking the Clemson Extension Services' Master Naturalist certificate course http://www.clemson.edu/public/naturalist/training/catawba_master_naturalist.html.  I feel like a kid at Christmas...I can't wait for tomorrow, the 2nd week of the Catawba Master Naturalist Class.  This is why I studied biology.

Here are a few pics from last week's class (I've been doing administrivia, that's why I am posting these 20 minutes before I go to class!).

Euonymus aka Burning Bush

Loropetalum

Riverbirch with Mistletoe...please tell me how to rotate this pic!

Mistletoe in bush, close to the ground...cool.

Info from Bob about mistletoe "roots," haustoria:  It appears that haustoria are unique. This is an example of how the tissue is solely parenchyma cells and truly contain neither vascular tissues. The second article addresses mistletoes and their formation of haustoria (continued)