Four months ago today, a certain House Pony arrived at the Ranch by way of a foster agreement with the Red River Old English Sheepdog Rescue. That Pony, now known as Wilson, was later officially adopted and has become a larger than life Ranch hand. He continues to adapt to city life. One thing for certain though, he is decidedly not a fan of the Sciuridae family of rodents, otherwise known as squirrels. It only seems appropriate that we share today’s ‘public service announcement’ from the National Park Service while smiling. Squirrels vex Wils. His strong commitment to ridding the world of these vexing critters is front and center as he continues to adapt to city life, coincides with his ability to turn me into a kite. Yet his efforts to combat their judgy ways remains thwarted.
Welcome to the first Friday of May where we join those sweet pups from the Adventures of the LLB Gang. Don’t forget to click on the highlighted link to see what other posts were shared. After a laughter-filled good visit with Mom’s Dad and sister, and just like Arnold Schwarzenegger, we’re ‘baacck.’ It was a bit early as spring on the prairie was just beginning to wake up but with temperatures warming up this week, it’s bound to go into overdrive. Crystal blue skies greeted us every day along with breezy conditions, but it was a lovely visit. Let’s start our tour, shall we?
Elsa: A new neighbor has slowly been getting settled in. They put up this adorable mailbox-one of the nicest in all of Pueblo West. Mom was captivated by it. Wilson thought the post needed to be baptized and I kept thinking, “Ugh…who are these weirdos?” Egad I just hope nobody saw me with them.
Wilson: What?! There was a small message in the gravel that the post was setting on that I needed to respond to…what’s wrong with that?
Elsa: I can’t even begin to respond to those ‘needs.’
Wilson: Well I noticed you left a message along our walks.
Elsa: Yup, I did. It said DON’T PEE HERE, YOU BOZO. Or do you need a translator?
Wilson: {miffed} Well I never…
Elsa: If only that were true. Moving along…the trees were just beginning to leaf out. This is one of a few deciduous trees that my Grandpa has that serves as resting spots for the prairie birds and shades the patio. Mom said the meadowlarks were back with fewer doves this time. The doves have taken over the past couple of years, much to the chagrin of the uprights but everyone seemed happy to hear the meadowlarks chirping their lovely songs. We couldn’t get close enough to take a pic but had to be content with their song. Mom starts to swoon whenever she hears their distinctive trilling. Here’s what they sound like.
Wilson: My heavens, what a charming and delightful sound. I can see why Mum enjoys their calls. She said the Western Meadowlark’s most common call is a “low, bell-like pluk or chupp which they use when disturbed and during courtship and territorial displays” according to the All About Birds website with the males giving “a hurried, excited “flight song” of short-spaced whistles and warbles.” If it makes Mum happy, who are we to interrupt?
Elsa: I know that…it just cracks me up when she goes into “bird frenzy.” More than once while they were all chatting on the patio, she interrupted the conversation excitingly telling the others “ooh, ooh, check out the Meadowlark call” {eyes rolling}. Her sister looked at her as if she’d lost her mind.
Wilson: Well I didn’t notice her sister seem to mind since she never stopped rubbing my ears. Boy was I glad I got to meet her.
Elsa: You are simply shameless. One day you’ll meet someone who isn’t seduced by your oafish large self.
Wilson: I doubt it but until then, I’ll enjoy the attention. I notice you were hanging out near her a lot of the time too.
Elsa: {clearing her throat} Ahem, she was my aunt before she ever became yours. And one of the sweetest dog lovers in the world. I love being around her and her husband and think I filled a vital role since I know they both were missing their dog back in Texas.
Wilson: It’s a good thing we always answer the call to quickly go to service, right mate?
Elsa: Oh jeez…get over yourself, House Pony. Anywho…what else you got today?
Wilson: Mum told me the rabbit brush is beginning to flower but I was somewhat disappointed there didn’t seem to be any rabbits at home whenever we walked by.
Elsa: I suspect its pollen was what made Grandpa and Mom’s sister all stuffed up although there could have been other culprits, like maybe this wild Verbena that was beginning to sprout here and there. It’s a pretty little flower that stays low to the ground and provides a nice pop of color in a tawney landscape.
Wilson: How did I miss that one? I surely would have left a message.
Elsa: Ha…color Mom happy about that!
Wilson: Speaking of color…Mum mentioned that this untraditional iris was something her Mum planted many years ago. It’s quite striking and with the anniversary of her passing this past week, gave everyone a smile between their tears as they remembered her and how she lovingly created her garden over the years. I wish I could have met her, I’m sure I’d have loved her as much as everyone else.
Elsa: Yeah, she was the best, and I’m sure she’d actually have enjoyed you plonking your big fat head in her lap. She was especially fond of Sam who tended her when she went into hospice.
Wilson: She must have been a very special human. And for the record…I don’t plonk. I gently rest my head in the lap of uprights who seem to appreciate and need my company. That’s why Mum thinks I might be a good candidate for pet therapy. So what was all that falderal about that flying thing? I couldn’t tell what all the excitement was but it sure seemed to entertain everyone.
Elsa: Oh that thing? That was the first Swallowtail of the season. It’s one of the largest of all butterflies and quite distinctive.
Wilson: Mum was very excited and tried to follow it around the patio area. She wasn’t able to get too close before it would flit around and move to another tree so her photo isn’t the greatest and is pretty grainy. But it’s not for lack of trying.
Elsa: You’ll learn soon enough that Mom isn’t the best photographer anyway but especially with her cell phone. She considers it a victory if she gets a shot that resembles what it is she’s trying to share.
Wilson: Well in all fairness, sometimes a cell phone is all one happens to have at the moment and the only way to document something.
Elsa: Yeah, you’re probably right, but still…some of that documentation is so lame. Like this one, as we were heading back to Denver. You can tell the species, but you couldn’t tell what kind it was. Mom thought it might be a rattlesnake but she wasn’t about to get out of the car to get closer. She cropped it hoping it’d be more clear but alas…another fail. The full size pic looked more like a rope was across the road. She worried that if this guy sunned himself for too long, some big truck would likely run over him. She’s not a fan of snakes, I mean who IS right, but she didn’t wish him any harm. He was pretty long and blended in well to the landscape.
Wilson: Snake? Umm, I’d have passed as well…
Elsa: {interrupting} That’s rich, I know perfectly well you’d have investigated. You’d have either peed on it or tried to eat it.
Wilson: Well what else can you do with something like that in the middle of the road? I mean, come on…
Elsa: Well they are useful out on the prairie, keeping the mice population down and other small critters.
Wilson: I think this guy might have been napping a bit too much. He missed one in a planter near the front door that Mum and her sister were getting ready for plants.
Elsa: I heard the commotion. Auntie wasn’t nearly as thrilled as Mom was seeing that cute little thing. Mom thought it fell in and couldn’t climb out. It seemed pretty exhausted so she took it out and gently let it escape into the underbrush of a mugo pine. Look at all those hairs standing up!
Wilson: I thought I smelled something but didn’t see it.
Elsa: That’s probably why Mom brought out the scissors and clippers when we got home. I heard ‘something’ about you getting a trim later today.
Wilson: Ugh…yesterday’s bath was bad enough. While I’m mostly a good boy when it comes to grooming, I’d rather be out walking and checking out Nature, frankly.
Elsa: Well you needed a bath and you might as well get used to it. Mom gets worked up if we get mats or begin to ‘heaven forbid,’ smell like dogs and then runs around collecting all her grooming gear.
Wilson: Oh dear. I didn’t sign up for that.
Elsa: Un-lax, Pony…there are lots of treats involved. And this new self-dog wash Mom found is run by a really nice lady who will make you feel quite special at her adorable shop and dog wash.
Wilson: Yes, but, but..water. I mean…are there enough treats for water?
Elsa: There are, after it’s all over. Trust me. I don’t like baths either but when I smell good, Mom really loves on me. Well, I’m outa here…time for my mid-morning nap. I’ll let you wrap it up, Pony.
Wilson: Roger that, Ninja. We hope you have a fabulous weekend and are able to check out all the posh sights Nature brings us everyday. Cheerio, mates!
Welcome to this week’s edition of Nature Friday where we share bits of urban nature. Well another week of Spring is in the books but like always, we are joining those cuties from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what other posts were shared.
Elsa: Yo…yo, House Pony, wake up…it’s time to dish up a few images of spring from around the neighborhood.
Wilson: {soft snoring} Huh…wha….Oh good morning. The crisp morning air left me wanting to stay in bed a bit longer but now that I’m awake, let’s get rolling!
Elsa: My goodness…aren’t you the eager beaver. So what’s on today’s hit parade?
Wilson: Not sure about any parade but with all the miles we’ve put on this week sniffing around, Mum said Spring is in full display The tulips in particular have been quite posh this Spring though they always disappoint me since they have no fragrance-trust me-I’ve checked. Mum’s red tulips are finally blooming. And notice the volunteer grape hyacinths in the background? Mum has been trying to corral them and even dug som to give to a friend who came by to take some irises and perennials for her garden. Talk about prolific!
Elsa: Yeah, I’ve noticed those little scamps popping up in the oddest spots. There’s a whole patch in the garden where they’ve spread like weeds. I’m surprised Mom hasn’t gone on a terror yanking them up.
Wilson: She told me she didn’t mind them naturalizing but then said they were beginning to start acting like the lupines so she may need to start some remediation so they don’t go crazy. I haven’t seen the lupines but Mum told me there likely won’t be many this year. With all her talk about them, I was rather hoping I’d get to experience them. You can see past photos here.
Elsa: Yeah, she took zillions of photos, first with Sam and me and then Norman and me. I dreaded seeing them because it always meant we’d have to pose for 87 hours in the middle of them. Everyone who walked by would wax on about how beautiful they were. They had no idea how us dogs had to put up with photo sessions. I mean, it was almost animal cruelty!
Wilson: Oh gosh, sorry you had to endure that, Ninja. Must have been awful.
Elsa: You have no idea. It was like Christmas pictures. Hours and hours of “sit-stay” poses with all manner of Christmas decorations. The only good thing about it was Mom doled out lots of treats.
Wilson: Treats? Sign me up! I’ll stand on my head if there are treats involved.
Elsa: You say that now, but trust me, you’ll change your tune come later this year when we do our annual Christmas photos.
Wilson: Well I’m up for the challenge. I know Mum has some very high value treats she dispenses when she wants me to do something. I’ll humor her.
Elsa: Jeez, what a brown nose!
Wilson: {correcting} No-no…I have a very black nose. It’s one of those standout features about us Old English Sheepdogs.
Elsa: I was talking figuratively, New Guy. We’re gonna have to work on the meaning of ‘figuratively’ and ‘literally.’ You just don’t seem to understand the difference.
Wilson: I just go by what you tell me. I’m not a mind reading dog, I’m a herding dog. There’s a difference.
Elsa: Whatever. What else have you got?
Wilson: The lilacs are in full bloom and Mum is quite surprised since it’s early in the season. Now, those things DO smell great. Especially on a pretty blue sky day.
Elsa: Be careful where you stick that honker, bees like those flowers for their nectar.
Wilson: I’m not afraid of bees but I think wasps like this one might make me reconsider. Yesterday he was drinking from the solar fountain, buzzing around. I started to take a snap at him but Mum said that would be a very bad idea.
Elsa: Trust me, dude. Stay away from those nasty things-they’ll make your tongue swell up if you try to eat one of those things. And then you won’t be able to taste the treats Mom gives you.
Wilson: Egad!! Thanks for that advice. I’ll try hard to avoid them. You can believe I want to be able to taste all the tasty treats Mum gives me.
Elsa: {head shaking} My gawd, you’re like a canine garbage disposal, aren’t you?
Wilson: Mum never gives me garbage.
Elsa: I can’t. I just can’t even begin to school you on the difference of stuff like that.
Wilson: What? I don’t understand…
Elsa: {interrupting} Precisely and I don’t have the time nor the patience to teach you. Let’s move along, House Pony, shall we? Beside that wasp, I think there was another encounter with some urban wildlife, though in all my years at the Ranch, I’ve never seen one of those.
Wilson: I have no idea what the bloody hell that thing was doing sashaying across this yard. I did have a feeling Mum did me a solid but not letting me try to herd it.
Elsa: Darn straight she did. You don’t want to mess with those birds. They’ll mess you up but good. Probably came from someone’s city chicken coop.
Wilson: I could sense there was danger in that turkey by how tightly Mum held my leash and kept reinforcing the “leave it!” command with her clicker. Naturally I was a good boy and complied.
Elsa: {hysterical laughter} Complied? Right…I’ve seen how you handle the command to “Leave it!” when there’s a squirrel anywhere around {more raucous laughter}.
Wilson: If I didn’t know better, I’d say you were being quite cheeky with me.
Elsa: Umm, that’s one way of putting it. Good catch. Maybe you’ll figure things out eventually yet. Hope springs eternal.
Wilson: I’m just going to ignore you and show you some other images we encountered yesterday afternoon. Mum tells me this plant is the state flower.
Elsa: Well technically it’s the blue one that’s the state flower but like many of the perennials in the city, it’s blooming early.
Wilson: It’s quite striking, I say. But nothing compared to this purple flower. Mum said she’s never seen these blooming in April.
Elsa: Yeah, I’d agree. It was quite a shock seeing that pop up in a pile of weeds. Mother Nature seems to be teasing us.
Wilson: Right you are. When Mum and I walked back from the library, we came across this field of yellow flowers. I had to stop and admire them.
Elsa: I hope Mom told you those yellow flowers are weeds and the bane of gardeners everywhere. With the moisture we’ve received this Spring, they have been a bumper crop of them everywhere. But they are kinda pretty.
Wilson: I should say so…they are quite cheerful. Well, that’s all I have today. I heard we’re going to visit our Grandpa this weekend and I will get to meet Mum’s youngest sister who’s coming from Texas for a short visit. I’m excited to meet more of the family and promise I’ll be on my best behavior.
Elsa: Uh, huh…best, eh? Not sure what you mean by ‘best’ but it should be a nice visit for a few days. What are your plans for the weekend? You doing anything exciting for this last weekend of April? We’re still amazed that May is upon us and just around the corner. Where is this year going?
Wilson: Not sure but it does seem to be moving along quickly. Whatever you do, we hope you’re able to see loads of Nature’s finest. Just avoid the turkeys and wasps.
Welcome to Nature Friday where we share bits of nature from the urban landscape. As always, we are joining our friendly hosts from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what other posts were shared.
It’s been another crazy weather week with wide swings in the temperatures which have seemed to accelerate spring’s presence. Fifty degree temperature swings are not uncommon around here, especially at this time of year. Let’s see what we have, shall we?
Elsa: First off, on behalf of Mom who has become super forgetful since the birth of her great granddaughter, we need to apologize for not expressing our shock gratitude for being a winner last week on the Teaser. She’s never first to arrive but she was first to correctly guess on April 9th, the day Baby Halia arrived. Naturally she’s been gaga ever since so we hope you don’t hold it against her. Originally she thought it was a photo of a pile of gravel she had delivered many years ago but I convinced her to look for some clues to figure out where that photo was taken. Many thanks to Two Spoiled Cats for awarding her this cool badge. We have our paws crossed she starts to remember things better. {shouting out}…oh Mom…don’t forget to put your pants on today, okay?
The Mom: Umm, for the record, yes, I remembered to put on my pants {eyes rolling}.
Elsa: Whew…anywho…now that we’ve expressed our thanks, I’m gonna wake up the Pony and see what he’s put together for today.
Wilson: {butt wiggling with excitement} I’m here, I’m here…let’s get going!
Elsa: Down Sportor…don’t weird out on me.
Wilson: Well I just wanted to let you know I’m quite bright eyed and bushy…
Elsa: {sighing while interjecting} Ugh…this guy is way too literal, not to mention, way too bouncy. Let’s move along, shall we? What do you have to share first?
Wilson: {giddy with excitement…tail and bum wiggling like crazy} Well, this week Mum installed this cool garden whirligig that she received as a Christmas gift. She had put it away in the garage and forgot about it…mostly because the ground was frozen at the time. But she came across it and decided now would be a good time to install it. It took her a few minutes to figure out the instructions but figured it out. I can stare at that thing for ages. It’s very calming and Mum is hoping it will not only be lovely to passersby but also that it’ll the squirrels from coming in the front garden. Notice the wet stuff. We are grateful Mother Nature decided to gift us a little bit of moisture but hope she is even more generous later today.
Elsa: Erm…o-kay. Whatever cranks your handle. I suppose if it keeps you from going bananas, it’ll be worth it.
Wilson: As you well know, I’m pretty plugged into anything that moves so maybe this will keep me occupied. Otherwise, Mum is going to have to go back to the drawing board.
Elsa: I’m guessing this is the first of many strategies Mom is going to have to employ to keep you from killing her.
Wilson: {protesting and sounding slightly miffed} I’d never kill Mum. I just. am. always. hyper-vigilant about my surroundings.
Elsa: Hyper-vigilant? How about you’re a crazed lunatic?
Wilson: Name calling is not necessary. Besides, I’m the big strong one and must protect Mum.
Elsa: Ha! She’s managed to survive on her own without your help for 87 years so don’t flatter yourself. Just try not to run either of us over, and we’ll all be cool, okay.
Wilson: So…moving along. I thought this week we’d share photos of how accelerated spring is this year. Mum tells me she’s never seen perennials in such an early state of blooming.
Elsa: Yeah, I’ve noticed things in various stages of bloom and I’m not just talking about flowering trees although they’ve been nice. Here are a redbud and crabapple trees.
Wilson: Oh I love that redbud tree and Mum tells me all of us dogs love it too because we always try to potty beneath its low branches. She’s not having any of that and at least with me, she drags me off.
Elsa: Don’t feel special. She does the same thing with me while she’s grumbling something about how she’s not bending over like a gnome picking up after us under those low branches.
Wilson: Oh yes, she said the same thing with me. She was quite testy about it, too.
Elsa: Old people…what can you do but humor them. But I know we’ll both try every time we walk past that house. Angels Norman and Sam did the same thing. Maybe someone can explain to Mom why we do that. I can’t explain it.
Wilson: It’s quite a mystery to me but then I’m the new guy and a lot of things are mysterious to me here.
Elsa: So what’s up with this next pic? Care to explain it?
Wilson: Mum said it’s a mushroom clump and she thought it was rather fascinating. Because of our lack of humidity, seeing clumps like this are fairly unusual. It was quite a fragrant spot but Mum dragged me off again. She won’t let me pee on plants.
Elsa: She mentioned to me she can’t remember the last time so many perennials have started to bloom so early in the season. Mother Nature seems to be playing tricks on us. From poppies to irises and peonies and Bachelor Buttons from seed…I mean, for crying out loud, even some lilacs started blooming. In the middle of April! Say what you will, there is definitely something about this global warming thing. How else can you explain it?
Poppies
Irises
Bachelor buttons
Flowering shrub
Lilacs
Peony
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Wilson: It sure seems that way, but I’m a herder, not a scientist so don’t rely on my observations.
Elsa: Boy you can say that again. Trust me, I wouldn’t rely on your thoughts, even if you WERE a scientist. But the absolute wildest thing we saw on our walks from yesterday were some blooming Bleeding Hearts. We were almost to our house and Mom saw them as she walked by. And BAM! she stopped and yelled, “What the bloody dog?!” and walked back to take a photo. I thought I was going to have to revive her, I tell you.Wilson: It’s quite something, that’s for sure. Well that’s it for the flora this week but Mum was super excited that she saw some wildlife as well. It’s not a very good photo since all she had was her cell phone but she was blown away to see what she thinks was a juvenile Cooper’s Hawk in her silver maple tree. They’re not unheard of but seeing one in the city seems somewhat unusual.
Elsa: We need to remind Mom to get an arborist out to trim that tree. The squirrels are playing havoc with new branches and there are lots of old ones that need to be pruned away.
Wilson: Squirrels??? Where, I’ll get them!
Elsa: Down Pony…I said we need to have Mom take care of it. You’ll just create a mess and hurt yourself or more likely, someone else. I know you mean well but I’m starting to grow used to you and would hate to see you get hurt. Besides, I think I used up the entire veterinary budget this year. So let’s agree to let Mom take care of this. Guess that’s it for us this week. We hope you have a great weekend. So dude…are we doing anything exciting?
Wilson: Don’t think so. Mum said something about seeing the baby again. I wish she’d let me go with her…I definitely want to meet her. Mum can’t stop banging on about how fabulous she is and hopefully I’ll get to meet her soon when Mum’s sister comes to Colorado for a visit in a couple of weeks. We hope you have a splendid weekend and are able to get outside and take in the beauty Nature shares with us. In the meantime, we’ll leave you with this week’s image of the little sprout on her one week anniversary.
Happy first Friday of April peeps…it’s time for another Nature Friday post. Well spring continues to do spring things…you know…like dump tons of snow on the Northeast, bring 70’s and 80’sF to the central portion of the country with higher temps in gulf states with buckets of moisture to the West Coast. Good golly, it seems like Mother Nature is truly cheesed off. As we typically do on Friday’s, we’re joining our pals at Adventures of the LLB Gang. Be sure to click on the highlighted link to see what other posts were shared.
Elsa: So I finally was released from vet care yesterday by receiving a clean bill of health. They removed my stitches and pronounced me fully healed from a diagnosed UTI, femoral surgery and I received a good report on the histogram of the removed cyst (it was benign but Mom was told it could come back so I guess they’ll monitor it down the road). While the folks at this vet clinic are super nice, I told them I hope to never see them again…any time soon.
Sorry about the sun flare-the clinic faces south and it’s been very sunny here
Wilson: That’s jolly good news, Ninja. Congratulations. I’m sure those vet folks will miss seeing you. Mum told me they always enjoyed you coming in because you were a great patient.
Elsa: They probably enjoyed seeing Mom and her credit card more than me. But now that I think of it, they were quite nice to me and gave me terrific ear rubs…even when I was shaking with fear at their fancy posh office. There’s just no way to disguise the fact that office visits to the vet can be very traumatic. From the first time I arrived with the femoral fracture to the dental procedure…it was doggone scary. But being the Zen Ninja I am, I handled it with great aplomb and dignity.
Wilson: Don’t sell yourself short. Everyone I encounter always says how lucky I am to have you as a sister. And despite the fact I get grumpy sometimes with you because you ofen hog all of Mum’s attention, you do make her smile a lot. Like all those times this past week where you lazed away on the sofa despite the no dogs on furniture rule. She laughed out loud. You didn’t even pretend to be sorry for disobeying both Mum and the vet’s specific instructions to not jump while your shoulder was healing. Tsk, tsk…naughty girl.
Elsa: Do I look like I care?
Wilson: Umm, good point. Still, I can’t help wondering why I get yelled at whenever I get up on the sofa.
Elsa: Well, you’re you and I’m me. There are different rules for Ninjas versus House Ponies. The sooner you realize that, the better we’ll all be.
Wilson: {somewhat dejected} Whatever happened to equality for all?
Elsa: {jumping up on the sofa as Mom types} You want equality? You need to look up it on page 391 of Mom’s Webster’s dictionary.
Wilson: {frowning} Umm, perhaps instead we should share some of this week’s nature images.
Elsa: Whatever cranks your handle. Mom has been walking past this little tree/shrub for months now and wondered what it was. According to her plant app, it was identified as an American Pussy Willow but she was somewhat dubious since it’s not known to be found in Colorado. Still, it’s pretty cool and Mom liked it.
Wilson: Whoa…look at those silky catkins! I guess they start blooming on the bare stems before the leaves appear, and provide a wonderful source of pollen for native bees early in the season.
Elsa: Supposedly the male and female flowers are produced on separate plants yet both plants have flowers. There was only the one there so Mom wasn’t sure if it was male or female. While the male plant produces pollen, both sexes produce nectar and the flowers of the male plant produce those nubby catkins that are used in flower arrangements.
Wilson: Trust me I checked to see what it smelled like but apparently no one has left any clues about it.
Elsa: Of course you smelled it. Sheesh, I am still of the opinion you’re part Bloodhound. Emphasis on the hound part.
Wilson: {eyes looking left and right, mind mulling over what was just said} Wait, is that some kind of put down because I’m 100% Old English Sheepdog.
Elsa: Hey, you sniff more that your normal English fur ball. You know I just call ’em like I see ’em.
Wilson: Rest assured, I am NOT a hound, blood or otherwise. I’m part of the magnificent group of herding dogs and…
Elsa: Save it dog breath. You try herding me, I’ll show you what Poodles do, ok?
The Mom: Ok you two, no more flexing of breed egos. Just get on with sharing nature this week, ‘kay?
Elsa and Wilson: {in unison and two part harmony} Yes Mom/Mum.
The Mom: {smiling} Whew, that’s better.
Elsa: He started it, Mom.
Wilson: Did not, you started it.
The Mom: Enough guys. Let’s. move. on! I’m sure there are a few more spring photos we can share.
Elsa: Okay, okay…yeesh…so cranky on a Friday. Anywho…the recent snow storms didn’t seem to have too negative of an impact on the emerging tulips, although apparently the moisture produced a by-product plant. Who know snow would cause Pringles containers to bloom? That’s a new one on me. And yes, we disposed of it. {head shaking} Man, what is wrong with uprights?
Wilson: {with stiffened back and shaking head} Unforgivable, I say! At least none of those containers grew with these tulips. Talk about a cheerful bunch.
Elsa: You’re so right there, Pony. Some people are just beasts.
Wilson: You can say that again. I know it really upsets Mum when we’re out on our constitutionals. She gets very sad seeing trash. Weeds are bad enough but litter is simple unforgivable.
Elsa: We started to see a few of the flowering trees emerging from their winter snooze. Check out this type of cherry tree in bloom. The bees acted like they were having a kegger, buzzing and noshing on all the nectar.
Wilson: Hmm, what’s a kegger? Sounds like some decidedly American expression. There were a bunch of bees in this ornamental pear as well. It sure was quite the sight against a Colorado bluebird sky.
Elsa: It’s going to be another warm day (sorry Northeast peeps). We’re under a Red Flag warning for high winds with extremely low humidity today for much of the state. Winds could reach 75 mph later this morning so we better get cracking and batten down the hatches. Hopefully tomorrow’s forecast for moisture will materialize. And here I just got a bath this week. Ugh.
Wilson: Never fear, sister…I’ll keep you well anchored on the ground. Between me and Mum, you have nothing to fear about blowing away.
The Mom: Umm, I’m sure that was a compliment.
Wilson: Of course it was, Mum.
Elsa: {interrupting} Sounds like the House Pony is saying you’re on the chubby side, Mom. {snickering}.
Wilson: Not at all, dear sister; I was just trying to alleviate any fears you may have about blowing away.
Elsa: There you go, ruining another easy softball I pitched to you. What the dog? Whatever…we hope that whatever Nature dishes out this weekend, you stay safe and are able to ‘enjoy’ whatever she delivers your way. Have a great weekend everyone.
Wilson: Right, enjoy your weekend…even if you’re sipping a nice cuppa with a good book from the sofa watching the snow fly in case you’re not interested in shoveling or sloshing around in it. Stay safe.
Welcome to Easter Monday, which also happens to be April Fool’s Day. Before we share today’s musing, I want to wish my baby sister an extra special and Happy Birthday. That’s no joke either. Now, on to today’s smile.
It never fails…if there’s something on the stove, he take up position here. If something is needed from the fridge, he’s parked in front of the freezer. It’s no wonder I’m not an especially good cook. There’s clearly a ‘slight’ design flaw to working with a sous chef in a galley kitchen. And in my case, the sous chef is called Wilson. No wonder things are either over or under cooked. Maybe I should just go with boxed cereal for meals like I did in college?
May all your recipes be Top Chef quality today and all season long. Hopefully he won’t lay in front of the pantry so I can grab the spices needed for that pot of chili simmering on the stove top. Happy Monday.
Welcome to the last Friday of March where we’re sharing what Nature’s springtime looks like in our ‘Hood. As always, we are joining our hosts from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what other posts were shared.
Elsa: I’m back in the Editor’s office for today’s post but want to first acknowledge the House Pony for stepping in for me last week while I recovered. Thanks, New Guy.
Wilson: Why you’re most welcome little one, I was happy to help out…
Elsa: Umm, let’s not mushy, Dude.
Wilson: Blimey, I was just going to…
Elsa: No need to wax on, let’s get cracking, shall we.
Wilson: Well, had I thought there was an option, I’d continue explaining…but clearly that’s a moot point. So…can you explain how Spring works here? Forgive me if I don’t think it’s been all that springy. Interesting, perhaps, but springy…that’s definitely up for dispute. Is this what Coloradans call ‘Springtime in the Rockies?’
Elsa: You’ll get used to it. While it may say spring on the calendar, that doesn’t stop Mother Nature from throwing a curveball our way. Heh, heh…notice how I snuck in a reference to the opening of baseball season? Man, I impress myself sometimes.
Wilson: Wait, I thought this was a hockey household?
Elsa: It is but I wanted everyone to know I’m not just a single dimension sports fan.
Wilson: Well I’m sufficiently impressed. Mum said the local baseball team was tied for first place before their debut but I gathered from her sarcastic tone, that wasn’t meant as any kind of compliment.
Elsa: Umm, yeah, you could say that. She pretty much gave up on those bozos years ago. She couldn’t help but wonder if they’ll break last year’s record number of losses this year. Looks like they’re well on their way.
Wilson: Oh dear, that doesn’t sound promising at all. Well, let’s get back to Mother Nature, shall we?
Elsa: Oh looky here, New Guy is sticking to a script. Way to go, dog breath. Let’s show what happened this week.
First tulips of the season before snow
Ring around the snowy…
Winter yucca
Daffodils in snow
It’s a winter wonderland
No harm no foul
Hyacinths remain ok despite the snow
Wilson: Well I anticipated that you wanted me to keep things on track rolling in the right direction. I’m not just a pile of handsome fur, you know.
Elsa: Quite impressive, Pony {nodding affirmatively}. Well done.
Wilson: Blimey…was that a compliment? I’m never sure with you.
Elsa: Take the win, dude and keep on trucking.
Wilson: Trucking? But I thought Mum had a car not a truck. {excitedly} Oooh, oooh…does this mean we’re going to go someplace…I do rather enjoy car rides, given the opportunity. I so like riding in the car…
Elsa: {head shaking} You really are a literal moron. Ugh…do I have to explain everything to you?
Wilson: Well I tend to believe what you tell me. Shall I start to suspect you’re less than honest?
Elsa: Oh brother…I can’t. I just can’t. You’re making this job harder than I have the bandwidth for.
Wilson: I’m never sure just how to take you. You’re always surprising me. I just never know which direction you’re going. Sigh.
Elsa: Forget it, Dude. Just roll with it, ok and we’ll get along just fine. By the way, I’ve noticed how you’re always willing to let Mom dress you up which takes the pressure off me. Whew. I really hate those stupid hats. When you’re a Ninja, you don’t wear bunny ears. I mean…I’ve got street cred to protect.
Get that basket away away from me!
Wilson: Oh no? Well I have it on good authority, you didn’t seem to mind too much. I’m never quite sure what to do myself. I mean I’m trying hard to learn various commands and make Mum happy but nobody told me I had to do them with ears or hats on. Is this the usual routine? I want to do what’s expected.
Elsa: Umm, you probably don’t want to ask me what’s right-I like breaking the rules. As a Ninja-you can never be completely sure what I’ll do. {lowering her voice} Although I could have a whole load of fun misdirecting this lummox.
Wilson: Pardon me, I didn’t quite catch all of that?
Elsa: Oh nothing, don’t mind me. I’m just glad you’re game for the weird stuff she’s gonna make you do. You don’t seem to mind looking ridiculous, so I’m happy to share that job responsibility.
Wilson: Well, she does provide me tasty treats when I do it so, I say…sign me up. I’m always up for treats.
Elsa: Good grief, Charlie Brown…you really are simple minded, aren’t you?
Wilson: Hmm, seems you have trouble remembering my name. Once again and for the record, my name is Wilson. For someone who’s supposed to be so clever, you have a hard time remembering names and faces don’t you. I mean, it shouldn’t be so hard to remember…
Elsa: {head shaking/eyes rolling} Dude, you wear me out sometimes. So…it’s Easter this weekend. What are your plans?
Wilson: Well Mum keeps putting a basket of eggs next to me, I’m not sure what do with them. One of our neighbors is having an Easter egg hunt for little people. You think he’ll let me search for eggs? I jolly well think I like the taste of eggs…
Elsa: {interrupting} Fuhgeddaboutit…not happening. Besides the kids would think you’re a pony and would want to ride you. You’re better off staying with us, chillaxin. I’m sure Mom will have a treat or three for us. Maybe even bust out the snuffle mat. Oooh, oooh…that’d be completely cool. I’m loving that thing.
Wilson: There’ll be treats? Count me in. However you celebrate, we hope you have a wonderful Easter holiday and are able to enjoy your own slices of springtime.
Welcome to Nature Friday where it’s time for us to share a few slices of the emerging spring from around our ‘Hood. As always, we are joining our friendly hosts from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what other posts were shared.
Today we’re doing things a bit different. Elsa had a major dental procedure and removal of a cyst earlier this week and while she is doing very well, she said she would allow the ‘New Guy’ to to handle today’s post. Wilson was thrilled for the opportunity, with a bit of trepidation but was hopeful he can do a proper job so as to stay in his sister’s good graces. Take it away, Wilson!
Wilson: Thank you, Mum and Ninja. I’m thrilled (and a bit nervous quite frankly) to be able to host today. Blimey…didn’t get the word until late yesterday so please bear with me. In addition to everything else I’ve endured these past 11 weeks since moving here, I find myself in unchartered waters and umm…well I haven’t decided whether or not I like water yet or not. So I’d be really chuffed if you’d bear with me…
Elsa: Oh for crying out loud…get on with it, you buffoon. You’ve managed to waste 200 words blathering on and I’m ready for my post-breakfast snooze. I know Nike is in Missouri…so Just Do It! Sheesh.
Wilson: {Ahem} Right…sorry…just feeling a bit apprehensive-I know I have some big paws to fill today. Let’s see what we have, shall we?
Elsa: Finally! Go on, get with it, man.
Wilson: So temperature wise, it’s been quite smashing. Pleasant temps, loads of bright sunshine. This is the kind of weather I rather enjoy. Spring is moving along, though it seems a bit slow this year. Trees are just barely beginning to leaf out.
Wilson: Mum thought this might be a flowering plum tree. It’ll take a few more days before we know for sure. It makes a keen back scratcher.
Wilson: The maple trees have begun setting their flowers which are littering walkways throughout the neighborhood. They vex Mum because she has to sweep off the patio and front porch frequently but I tried to remind her at least she wasn’t shoveling snow. She agreed with me but Elsa was apparently not amused.
Elsa: Brown nose!
Wilson: I beg your pardon…my nose is decidedly black. It’s a hallmark of us sheepdogs and…
Elsa: {Interrupting} Oh give it a rest, ‘Pony.’ You need to stop taking things so literally.
Wilson: Right, I’ll work on that, but blimey…there’s just so much to remember and keep in check. {heavy sigh} Anyway, as I was saying…spring bulbs continue to do their thing and Mum is quite amused by where they sometimes voluntarily appear. This Scilla clearly wasn’t planted there as it showed up between the sidewalk and an adjoining retaining timber. Mum took a bunch of photos yesterday but didn’t realize the lens wasn’t clean so several of today’s photos are a bit ‘smeary’ with our deepest apologies. But it was so bright outside we weren’t able to easily tell while walking along on our constitutional. Mum say; this plant is commonly called Bossier’s glory-of-the-snow or Lucile’s glory-of-the-snow, but she just refers to it as Squill. It’s a perennial from western Turkey that flowers in early spring. Once it’s finished flowering, it will become dormant until next spring. It’s such a lovely shade of blue, much like the skies have been.
Wilson: Those Squill will become dormant that is, unless a certain rodent, digs it up. There are a gobsmacking amount of these creatures and I’ve quite determined they must be exterminated. Bloody tossers, the lot of them, I say. And they apparently feel the same about me and proceed to race away whenever I get even remotely close (sorry this is another smeary photo). Mum needs to learn to not pull her phone out with her finger over the lens but time was of the essence as they say and she hoped it wouldn’t look too awful when she could look closer at home. Now mind you, I’m a quick, speedy dog but these bloody buggers still manage to escape me. I’ve never even been close to catching them. Mum was not appreciative of my speed…well until she managed to land back on solid ground and resume normal breathing. She said something about agility competition and then grumbled about not enjoying being a human kite. I’ve apologized like a proper gentlemen but these cheeky monsters get my dander up.
Wilson: One of smaller trees that’s fully leafed out is Mountain Mahogany. It’s a small but extremely hardy tree barely reaching 16 feet tall and can be found in Colorado, Utah, northern Arizona and Central California. It’s quite dense and slow growing. I avoided this one because of the cactus planted in front of it. It’s wood is so dense and hard it will not float. If only I could have gotten closer, I’m sure it would make an excellent back scratcher.
Elsa: What is it about scratching your backside amongst shrubs and low branched trees that you like so much, dude?
Wilson: Oh come on…I’ve seen you do it on occasion yourself. It just feels good.
Elsa: Whatever. When I do it, it’s important. When you do it, it’s weirdly dumb.
Wilson: {Huffing with indignation} Well, I never…
Elsa: If only.
Wilson: {straightening his back and puffing out his chest} I see we’ll just have to agree to disagree on this. Mum says she’s surprised I’m not more interested in the flying visitors of our garden. I told her I’m too focused with my duties on squirrel patrol. She was however gleeful there were several of them buzzing around the blue grape hyacinths which she said have multiplied like crazy from when they were first planted and are now all in full bloom. They have naturalized so vigorously; she’s found some on the far opposite side of the garden. She’s hoping they don’t take over like the Lupines did but she’ll worry about that later.
Wilson: On our daily constitutionals, we pass by this tall guy who always manages to make my Mum smile. He seems to look rather sporting and no worse for wear after last week’s snowstorm. I’m sure I could use his help sorting out the squirrel situation around the neighborhood. They wouldn’t be able to easily escape if we worked together.
Wilson: One of the earliest blooming flowers around here are the Pasque Flowers which typically bloom around Easter. They are part of the Buttercup family (and are native to meadows and prairies in many states and is the state flower of South Dakota. The showy part of the flower are called sepals, not petals. Mum gets quite gleeful when she sees them. I took a quick sniff but it really didn’t do anything for me. The buds and stems are soft and fuzzy though.
Wilson: Well that’s all I have this week. Profuse thanks to my sister for giving me this opportunity as she recovers. Hopefully she’ll be back full stop next week for another go at Nature Friday. All of us at the Ranch hope you have a jolly good weekend and are able to see Nature first hand.
Elsa: Egad you bozo…you forget to mention that Mom won this week’s Teaser contest by knowing where it was, first. Thanks to One Spoiled Cat for the cool badge. Sheesh, I guess I need to do everything myself while you’re lazing about.
It’s Friday and that means it’s time for me and the ‘New Guy’ to share a few slices of spring from around our ‘Hood with our hosts from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Be sure to click on the link to see what other posts were shared. Yeah, I’m a sell-out and let Mom put a stupid hat on me. I gave her a nice big fat raspberry to show her what I thought about the whole thing.
Elsa: Welcome to the St. Patrick’s Day edition of Nature Friday. I think you all understand how I feel about dressing up so we’ll leave it at that.
Wilson: Oh come on, dress up is fun! There are treats involved. I LOVE treats.
Elsa: You would, dog breath. We’ve got lots of spring pics to share so let’s not dally with mindless chatter, ‘kay?
Wilson: Right! Well spring is definitely starting to show up in our neighborhood. Birds are arriving and the spring bulbs are starting to grow in earnest. I had to check out these hyacinths. At first I thought they might have a tasty morsel in them but then realized that was only an illusion. I think their appearance must be related to the whole fabricated AI thingy. As in ‘not the real deal.’ I was expecting something yummy in the middle. Imagine my disappointment.
Elsa: Jeez, dude, not everything is about food!
Wilson: Wait, it’s not? What the…
Elsa: You may think you’re some great hunter of food, but let me tell ya, that’s bunk. As a dignified Standard Poodle, I refuse to be a hunter around the Ranch. I am far too regal to have to search for food.
Wilson: Hey, don’t knock it until you try it. I think I’m a pretty pawsome hunter. Auntie Cheryl got us each a snuffle mat and I’m getting really good at being a real life hunter of goodies. Just look at that buried nose!
Elsa: Oh for crying out loud…you’re an embarrassment to civilized dogs everywhere.
Wilson: What?! It was fun finding all the goodies. But I must say, it wore me out. Hunting is exhausting.
Elsa: I just make sure the forewoman brings me my treats…I am NOT in the hunter/gatherer business. I have a kingdom to rule and as such can’t be bothered with such nonsense.
Wilson: Well I for one, think you should try it, you just might like it.
Elsa: Highly unlikely. Besides, why would I work for food when my subjects Mom will provide it without any interference from me {gasping at the mere thought of such routine plebeian activity}.
Wilson: Whatever. I told Mum I was all in…
Elsa: {interrupting} Of course you’re all in…food never escapes you. And you seem to think everything is food.
Wilson: Not true, I mean I didn’t try to eat these blue grape hyacinths.
Elsa: Well maybe the bees gathering nectar on them might have dissuaded you?
Wilson: Well, that did factor in my thought process. That and Mum hollering “LEAVE IT!” I’m catching on to what that command means. She sure says it a lot.
Elsa: {eyes rolling} Well if you didn’t view everything as nourishment, maybe she wouldn’t have to yell at you.
Wilson: She told me it was a good way for me to show off some self control. I’m pretty good most of the time…well except for when I hear the dog next door. That guy really winds me up behind the fence.
Elsa: Which is exactly why Mom is trying to make you ‘leave it’ whenever you’re in the dog run. I mean, you’ve got to be 15 shades of stupid to race the length of the run barking, snarling at him.
Wilson: He really pushes my button but I’ll try to be better about the whole self control thing. I mean, when I’m good, Mum rewards me with things that I enjoy very much. Like taking me to Sloan’s Lake earlier this week. I enjoyed the long walk and sniffing things out although there were a few weird things. Didn’t I pose nicely at the lake?
But what’s up with some of the yard art around here? We didn’t have anything like that back in Missouri. Well we did, but they didn’t have horns and they made grunting sounds. There are some very odd humans who live in this neighborhood.
Elsa: You’ll get no arguments from me on that subject. I probably would have challenged that guy if I’d been along on that walk.
Wilson: Well he was ok as far as boars go, but just not what I expected to find in the city. Mostly I thought he was more of a ‘bore,’ than an actual boar.
Elsa: Hahaha, Wilson made a funny, Mom.
Wilson: Ahem…I think we have a few other spring pics to share.
Elsa: Oh yeah, sorry I got carried away. So spring in the Rocky Mountains always has its challenges. Crummy soil, intense sun, and a wide range of temperatures but DANG! I sure wasn’t prepared for this type of Spring. What the dog?!
Wilson: I know, right?! I nearly tipped over trying to balance pee in the piles of snow.
Elsa: Ha…if it’s sympathy you want, look it up in the dictionary, Bucko. Try squatting in a foot of snow, dude. Brrrr.
Wilson: The snow was very heavy and broke some branches that Mum will have to deal with, once she can get back in that corner.
Elsa: Mom tried to shake off the snow a few times, but there were just some areas she couldn’t reach. She noticed that despite the snow, there were a few signs of spring emerging and was very grateful the trees hadn’t leafed out yet-the damage would have been much worse. The good news was there was a LOT of moisture from this storm that will help the landscape.
Wilson: That tree shades my favorite spot to pee and I wasn’t quite prepared for clumps to come falling down on me. But like many things, I know just how to react. Shake it off and take a nap. It’s the best way to deal with things Nature throws at you.
Elsa: Hmmm, I’d have figured you would have said, eat a treat to soothe being startled but a nap does sound like a good idea.
Wilson: Well, a nap was my second choice.
Elsa: Of course it was. Anyway, we’re all snug as bug, the power stayed on (unlike for 11,000 peeps) and Mom made sure we were entertained, happy and didn’t go stir crazy.
Wilson: Yeah, she’s the best. I hope the snuffle mat comes out again soon, but I think all that super heavy, wet snow is supposed to melt in the warmer temps this weekend so walks will resume. We hope you have a safe and fun filled St. Patrick’s Day weekend-enjoy the green. I’m looking forward to more broccoli but no green Guinness. Even Mum doesn’t like that beer. Have a bonnie good weekend and “may the road rise up to meet you; may the wind be always at your back.” Happy St. Patrick’s Day from all of us at the Ranch.
Elsa: What he said. Just make sure you explore nature in your neck of the woods. You may be surprised with what you’ll encounter.
Happy snow day, er I mean…welcome to Friday. Another week is in the books and is arriving just in time since some bonehead decided to reinstate Daylight Savings Time and rob of us an hour. Oi-we really hate this time of year.
So, looks like Winter decided to do a u-turn and revisit us. It’s no biggie as storms go with the forecast only calling for 3-5 inches of white stuff. Today will be ‘crisp’ as Mom likes to say but we’ll be okay and it should be back in the 60’sºF by Sunday. I will have less furs to protect me since I was groomed a couple of days ago. Sorry-Mom didn’t take a photo. She wanted to even out the hair that was shaved from my back leg after the surgery to repair the broken femur and she still needs to clean up my face and front paws so I’m not 100% finished but look better than the Franken-dog I was before. You can’t even tell I have a long scar which is a bummer as it gave me lots of street cred. Still I only had so much patience and Mom ended up having lots of things going on, so her time was a bit limited. That ought to teach her {giggling}.
Elsa here. Like I said, it’s been a busy week but we’re ready to share a few slices of nature from our ‘Hood with those cutie pies from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Be sure to click on the highlighted link to see what other posts were shared. Wilson had his teeth cleaned a couple of days ago and has been slow to fully recover from the anesthesia. Leave it to a guy to milk the “woe is me” mantra. Heck, I recovered faster from my surgery than he has. Granted he did have a couple of cracked teeth extracted but man…they must have given him a huge dose of Ketamine because he was wobbly legged for a whole day and lost his appetite for two days. Yeah, I know…shocker. That boy never misses any meals! He seems to have rounded the corner this morning and I’m sure he’ll be back to his usual pig-like self in no time. The vet said he has lost 9 lbs. in the two months he’s lived with me and the assistants said he’s looking good with his svelte waistline. It took two of them to lift him up though.
Wilson: Hey, I’ll have you know I started wiggling my bum yesterday afternoon, and that’s a step in the right direction.
Elsa: Hey if you were a girl, you’d be expected to buy groceries, cook and serve said groceries into some healthy meal, clean, launder, and just generally take care of the household and family no matter how you feel…shall I go on?
Wilson: Hmm, when you put it like that, I guess I see your point. But if it makes you feel better, I ate my whole breakfast this morning. It feels good to be back eating again. I live for food.
Elsa: Which is exactly why I decided to not eat. It’ll make Mom crazy, cuz that’s just the way I roll. Gotta keep her on her toes and repay her for grooming me. Next she’ll want to bathe me. Blech but I’ll see if she manages to bring out some extra special food to coax me back to eating my meals. Heh, heh. Who’s a clever ninja girl?
Wilson: Mum’s been through a lot this week, so let’s go easy on her, ok?
Elsa: Easy, schmeasy. Let’s just get this show on the road. So before seeing the vet, Mom took you on a special trip to her favorite neighborhood place, Sloan’s Lake. What’d you think of the place?
Wilson: It was interesting to say the least. Lots and lots of ducks and geese. Like the good boy I am, I paid no attention to them. Besides, there was way too much other stuff to focus on. Since it was very spring-like at the beginning of the week, there were lots of people walking dogs, pushing car-sized strollers with little people, bicyclists, skaters and runners everywhere. I was a bit overwhelmed but Mum assured me we’ll go again so I can better acclimate and she assured me eventually I won’t mind at all. I sure hope I get used to it. It’s exhausting always being on high alert all the time. Goodness, you just never know when a noisy garbage truck will scare the wits out of a chap!
Elsa: Hey, you didn’t tell me there was a duck convention going on. Look at all those birds!
Wilson: Right, it does look like there was a major convergence. They were talking among themselves, and because I’m not bilingual in English and duck I had no clue as to what they were saying so I didn’t eavesdrop.
Elsa: You fool…you could have become a hero to us dogs who always wondered what their saying. But I’m not bilingual in duck either so I’ll give you a pass.
Wilson: Why thank you, little sister…
Elsa: {interrupting} Don’t get all mushy on me. As far as I’m concerned you let us good dogs down. I’ll leave it at that.
Wilson: {somewhat miffed} Well, I shall keep a stiff upper lip. But I did find something that Mum was excited about. Mum has been monitoring my sniffing on walks which is becoming more frequent (she says that’s a good sign I’m integrating into a routine and becoming less stressed) and I found the coolest thing. A “pee grove” of stumps! I could have stayed there for hours ‘reading’ all the messages and posts.
Elsa: Oh jeez…you need to get a life, dude!
Wilson: Well I found it fascinating. Clearly there’s lots going on in the area and it was a moment where I was able to become involved, olfactorily speaking. Anyway, Mum was pleased. And I have noticed the more I’m sniffing, the more relaxed I am on walks and she says that’s a good thing.
Elsa: Whatever cranks your handle new guy. Moving along. There were more slices of spring starting to emerge. Mom waits all year long for a neighbor’s Magnolia tree to send out buds and it looks like this might be a banner year. Plus the lilacs are also starting to bud up nicely She got all giddy checking them out. It’s still early for them to bloom but barring any sudden deep freeze, it should be quite a beautiful show.
Lilacs
Magnolia
Wilson: While the tulips may just be coming up, they haven’t started to bud yet; but we’ve noticed that poppies are beginning to emerge, ready to show off their pretty paper-like petals soon. Surely that seems like a good sign Spring is really going to arrive despite today’s snowstorm.
Elsa: Well I don’t know about you but I’m going to go back napping and suggest you do the same since we’re gonna be robbed of an hour this weekend We hope everyone has a good Friday and an even better weekend. Don’t forget to “Spring Forward” with the second stupidest day of the year. And for goodness sake, make sure you look for signs of Nature in your neighborhood.
