Hi everyone! As my first blog from the Highland Stables I decided it was perfect to fill you in on our new arrivals this spring. If you’ve ever walked past the stables it’s hard to miss our flock of Scottish Blackface Sheep as they graze on the grass or greet guests in the hallway. At the Highland Stables, we mimic a traditional Scottish farm from our majestic Clydesdales and ever learning Border Collies to welcoming new lambs in the spring.

What is planted in your garden that will enhance your winter decor? Many of the elements that are present all year can have a true opportunity to shine at the end of the growing season.

I was able to think about the questions about wolves we most frequently are asked and it made me realize, there are a lot of misconceptions. Some of you probably know a great deal about wolves and some of you might just think you know. During this revelation, it also occurred to me that one of the most important things I do is to move others to feel as passionate about animals and conservation as I do. And if there are many misunderstandings about our animals, then I’m not doing my job.

Many gardeners shy away from using perennials in the summer, choosing instead to supply color in the garden through the use of annual plant material. I, on the other hand, have a rule for my home garden – no annuals. I like the fact that perennials, while initially somewhat more expensive to purchase, will return for multiple seasons and will also multiply to give me additional plant material to expand my own garden or to trade with gardening friends. So, how does one maintain a colorful garden throughout the summer months? Here are some suggestions.

You don't often hear the words cute and alligator in the same sentence, but our newest Water Country USA residents are definitely an exception. I want to introduce you to our new American alligators - Elvis, Horatio, Crocket and Tubbs. These little guys or girls (they are too young to tell) are only two months old and already have me wrapped around their little webbed toes, especially Tubbs. Currently they are about ten inches long, but as adults can reach up to 15 feet … at which point I will not be holding them.

As you walk by Wolf Valley, you may catch a glimpse of a large, goofy wolf bounding around and pulling out small trees. There’s a good chance you’re watching Kitchi, one of our two-year-old Gray wolves. Kitchi came to live with us in May 2009 when he was just six weeks old. Since then, he has grown to be our largest wolf, weighing in at nearly 110 pounds.