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.

What a beautiful day after all...

At the start of the day it didn't look too promising, the skies were gray and looked like they were going to give us lots more snow. It was such a nice surprise to have the day turn out so bright and sunny! The blue sky and the Blue Mountains! What a treat!

the Deer that came to breakfast & The morning moon

Got up early (5:30 am) and took the dog out to play fetch. We are headed to a flea market today and it would be nice if she had some play time before the long ride. After our play time I went out to water some plants and there was a young doe in the yard! We know they come here, we just don't see them, just the empty feeders and their little hoof prints are left behind. It was too dark so the pictures didn't turn out...booooo! Well I can still share some nice pictures of the sunrise!

End of Summer (sigh)

Seems like fall is here! The local wheat is harvested along with the mint, grass crops, alphalfa and grass hay. The Saturday Market is full of fresh local produce and honey as well as vendors selling arts and crafts. The night air is cool and the days are hot... yep it's fall! The flowers are enjoying the cooler air, the bees are busy gathering pollen. I'm just not ready, summer was too short!

What beautiful weather we are having! It is hot during the day, but cool at night. Gotta love it! I have been waiting to get just the right shot of the trumpet vine that took over the fence, the yard and the bird feeder! Today was the day. Not sure which I like best ... the organge or yellow trumpet vine. hhmmmm maybe the yellow.

The Dog who Digs the Gardens

I have been asked what the dog who digs the garden looks like. Just a little bit about her... Her name is Elvira, she is 9 1/2 months old, weighs in at just under 70 lbs., her color is blond-brindle. She loves to play in the sprinkler and play with her toys. Her breed is English & American pitbull/bull mastif.

Lillies and Ladybug

Wow! Our daughter came to visit and worked so hard to get the front yard back in shape for us. The results were amazing but not ready for prime time... after a severe pruning many things need some time to heal. More on that later. Posting new pictures for you to enjoy.