overheard...

...cold science edition!

"did you know that the ice in antarctica is 3% penguin urine?"

i am wondering...just *who* studied & compiled that little statistic?? is it true?

but...speaking of penguins (& science & the boys), they are a critter mightily enjoyed in our home. at least 2 of us claim them as one of our very favorite animals. on several occasions i have even been asked to house one of those dapper little guys right here in eastern NC. but since i don't do ice as floor decor, the answer will remain a chilly "no"...

however we have found a way to show penguins the love without assigning them a bedroom in casa piacere...our friend mike, who studies on magdalena island in southern chile (note to beckie...volunteering, if possible, to help mike is on my own bucket list!) works with the marvelous magellanic penguin. we found him through seabirds.org & have since adopted our very own penguin~~ waffle!(waffle in burrow, courtesy of mike) mike has been very helpful in our own study of these penguins and southern south america & its weather. his very detailed updates on waffle & the colony (including sweet photos) & his patient answers to our queries are always appreciated. in his most recent update we found out that waffle's chicks are doing well & he even attached an adorable photo...

aaaawwwww!...aren't they sweet! (waffle's chicks courtesy of mike) be sure to visit seabirds.org & check out what else mike is doing.

30. kindness to critters

31. the joy of & desire for learning...a thirst for knowledge...a quest to expand the mind

32.. those who willingly & excellently teach us in so many ways

33. a good laugh in the midst of perplexion :-)