Spring is finally here

After a very cold winter with lots of snow, I am so excited that spring has finally arrived, hopefully to stay. But I know March can be unpredictable. It has been warm for about a week and today it was in the 70s. I spent the day working in the yard ... pruning, weeding, moving plants, raking, cleaning the pond. My plan was to not overdo but when I get started I don't know when to quit. The birds are busy looking for a home. I am hoping the bluebirds have decided to nest in the same birdhouse they did last year. The chickadees are checking out the same house. The finch have been at the other birdhouse.

Clouds

I love the winter sunsets, so I usually check every night to see what it looks like. I was a little late this time and the sun was very low but the clouds were interesting ... very black against the dark blue of the night sky.

Snow Jan. 30, 2010

We are having lots of snow this winter ... this one was 13". It was a very dry snow, so it made good "snow" ice cream. Another storm is expected this weekend bringing another 10-12". A temperature record was set this past Sat. night at 2 degrees below. I am sure looking forward to spring. With this winter being so cold compared to the last few years, I hope I don't lose any flowers or flowering shrubs.

Coopers Hawk

This morning while having coffee and watching the birds outside, I spotted this hawk on the arbor beside my small fish pond. I have heard they will catch the fish and other birds. I am glad there is a cover over the pond to keep the leaves out and I sure hope he doesn't harm the birds that come to the feeder. I have never seen a hawk this close and I am not sure what kind it is. I assume it is a Coopers Hawk.

Christmas Cactus Nov. 17, 2009

Flowers blooming on Nov. 15

We have had frost in some areas nearby, but not at my house. I know it will happen soon, so I am enjoying the flowers that are still blooming. The following flowers are still blooming on Nov. 15. Azalea, Beautyberry, marigolds, celosia, Diamond Dust, Allysum, Impatients, Johnny Jumpups, knockout rose, mexican zinnias, hydrangia, obedient plants, pink salvia, Lady in Red salvia, Marischino salvia, Begonias, Yarrow

Mexican Sage

This Mexican Sage bush was at a local church. It is not supposed to be hardy in this area, but this one has survived a winter. The purple blooms are so vibrant and two bright yellow butterflies were enjoying the bush.

Foggy Morning

These photos were taken on a recent trip to see my family. It was hard driving but made for some pretty photos. I especially like the "foggy sunrise" photo.