what's a coot?

There are at least two potential definitions for the blog's chosen name:

coot

1. any of a genus (Fulica) of ducklike, freshwater birds of the rail family, with long-lobed toes
2. an amusing or eccentric old fellow

Although I may have been a bird in a past life (if you believe in such things and I was once a Buddhist you know) I can assure you that my toes are fairly normal in length, not to mention that I'm from the furred rather than feathered line of warm blooded creatures.

Although I'm not sure if she was kidding when she made the suggestion, Mrs Coot told me it would be greatly helpful to include illustrations . . . 

Flock of American Coots in a marsh 
(Picture courtesy of National Digital Library of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service)

Solitary coot (male) on a beach

The solitary (crippled) coot is found in a wider variety of habitats than the "other" kind of coot (feathered), and the solitary coot's plumage is far more variable.  

Female coot on pebbled lake shore

At the end of the day I know for a fact that I'm a bit eccentric (as noted in the second definition.)  From there, I'll leave it up to you to decide if anything here is amusing . . . 

meet the Coots

There I am, in all my "glory", gazing off into the wilderness.

I'm Mr. Crippled Coot, although you can call me Mike.

My wife, Mrs. Coot, is named Katharina.  She's the hottie next to the beaver sign.

To put it into very simplistic terms, this blog is the story of a more than middle aged couple (she turns 60 and he turns 50 within the next year) who were once told they were both basically crippled and useless.  

Most famously, a doctor once wrote in clinical notes on Katharina - "Patient has no remaining quality of life."  It was once remarked to me: "Well then, there's nothing left for you except to apply for disability."

Obviously, we've overcome those dire pronouncements, and we are living our lives to the fullest.  We are enjoying camping and hiking as we explore the many natural wonders of North America.  This blog is simply our way of sharing our experiences with you.