Three little Quail sitting in a tree

I had to snap this shot! I happen to look out the front window and there they were, just waiting for me to get the camera out! We have been seeing more of the little quail coming in this year than ever before. They roam the neighborhood in huge coveys of 50 or more. Our little covey is about 14 strong. They are so fun to watch; scratching around the yard like a bunch of fancy chickens.

Orchids and other flowering house plants

Ok, Ok!! I said I'd let the orchids live! But... I bought some anyway. They don't like me much (I have killed several) but here I go again! I enjoy their special beauty and style. Then there is a plant that I have had for about 16 years. Mine has not bloomed in all that time although I have seen the same variety in bloom elsewhere. I have no idea what it's botanical or common name is. Anybody gotta clue?

Quail in the yard and other critters

It seems just when you are thinking how dreary a day is you find some little things to smile about. We have always had quail around our end of town, but it is rare for them to be in our yard at least until lately. Today there were 14 of them scratchin' around the feeders! I hope I can get a picture of the whole covey, someday.

Rain, rain, rain

After so many dark and dreary days, it is hard to imagine that spring really is upon us. As I drive to work the proof is there... a few yellow crocus in this yard and that, the lilac's in my daughter's yard starting to put out some leaves, the Robin chatting and redwing blackbirds in the trees and feeders in my front yard. The American Goldfinches are beginning to show their color... the bright golden yellow of the males is so striking in the spring; they look so jaunty with that crown of black. Guess it's time to get out the seed catalogs and start figuring out what to plant. Somehow that always makes the rain seem more inviting; knowing it is warming the planting beds and helping the compost to break down a bit more before we turn it into the gardens.