Category: Urban scenes

Nature Friday ~ November 14, 2025

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 73 Comments

Wilson & the squirrelWell here we are again on a Friday. With forty-seven days left in the year, we continue to zoom toward the holidays in break neck speed. As always, we’re joining the crew at Adventures of the LLB Gang for their weekly blog hop. Be sure to click on the link to see what posts were shared by others. Wilson here and can I just say it’s been an interesting week. We’ve been lucky with our weather, it’s been, in a word…gorgeous. Mild autumn days and not too chilly nights. I think I could get used to the low 70’sF (around 22C). It’s been somewhat breezy most days, blowing leaves all over the place but I haven’t minded. It’s glorious and it’s autumn so it’s to be expected, right? Mum continues to remove leaves from under our covered front patio porch several times a day and said we could use some moisture-it’s been 2 months since any wet stuff fell so things are fairly dry and dusty. My once beautifully white paddles (also known as paws) are a lovely shade of grey. Do I care…heck no. Mum keeps trying to remove those little pieces of grass and leaves from sticking to my furs which means sessions with a brush. That part I do care about and hope she stops and soon. I’m fabulous enough without her fluffing me up.

Wilson: {continuing} Like I said, windy conditions are making good at disbursing leaves all over. But there still are a few trees that seem reluctant to let go of autumn, most notably the Bradford pears. They will keep shedding leaves for probably another month. Our neighbor has a pair in his front yard and Mum sometimes grumbles when they finally fall all over her sidewalk when it snows. Nothing like shoveling the sidewalk when the first snowflakes of the season arrive and its half full of Bradford pear leaves. But they sure are pretty. Just look at their color when most trees are down to their branches!

Bradford pear trees

The Mum: Those Bradford pear trees scream “GOOD MORNING WORLD!” every day when we walk past the old Elitches theatre on our morning constitutional. It’s a perfect autumn scene made even more perfect by the morning quiet before the city wakes up in earnest.

Wilson: Another colorful specimen is this Scarlet Firethorn tree. Looks like the birds who stay here during the winter will be well supplied with a nice batch of berries.

Firethorn

The Mum: That firethorn ranks right up there in color with this Japanese Barberry Bush-another screamer.

Burning bush

Wilson:  What? I can’t hear you, that bush is too loud.

The Mum: You’re too funny, you know that, House Pony? So we had some interesting astrological sightings this week. With the Beaver Moon appearing recently we were also treated to some spectacular Aurora Borealis showers over the past couple of days, I never thought I’d see them in person here with our dense neighborhood tree canopy but my son sent me pics a few pics he took from just north of the the Boulder city limits. The colors were incredible and did not disappoint. I loved seeing the tiny white stars showing up in the dark skies. When you live in the city, you get used to not seeing a lot of stars because of light pollution in a metro area so when you’re in an area that has little or no competition, it’s always a wondrous sight.

Aurora Borealis
Photo courtesy of K. M. Samson
Aurora Borealis
Photo courtesy of K. M. Samson

Wilson:  Pretty cool celestial happenings, Mum. With just 41 days until Christmas, the local neighborhood tree lot is getting ready to ramp up for the season. Although we posted about this lot showing up a couple of weeks ago, does anyone else find this signage somewhat ironic? “Fresh Christmas trees” in November…hahaha. While they haven’t begun to display trees and wreaths just yet, but I think not, at least not this early in the season. They are beginning to put out lighted spheres out that were very pretty when they had them last year along with a nice ‘herd’ of log moose and reindeer. It’s nice and festive especially as our landscape continues to get browner and browner.

Christmas tree sign

The Mum: Speaking of moose and reindeer, do you see any other critters this week on our walks?

Wilson: As a matter of fact, I did although I have never seen one of these before, either in Colorado or Missouri. What the dog is that thing?

The Mum: Silly Floof, it’s just more of unusual garden art that amuses me. This one is in the form of an alligator sunning himself on a low wall. I can’t wait until it’s covered in snow. Now that will be a sight!

Garden art croc

Wilson: Harumph…well I for one don’t plan on encountering it, not with that set of choppers.

The Mum: Don’t worry, this guy can’t hurt you. It did made me chuckle though. You know how much I love finding these unique pieces of garden art around the neighborhood.

Wilson: You’re so weird, Mum. Well that’s it for us this week. Hope you’ve taken time out of your busy holiday preparations to get outside and enjoy Nature, Northern Lights and the unusual. Let us know if you have any unusual plans. From both of us, we hope you have a ‘furbulous’ weekend!

Nature

Live, love, bark! 🐾

Nature Friday ~ November 7, 2025

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 56 Comments

NatureIt’s Friday again and the calendar appears to be zooming along toward the end of the year. With only 54 days left in 2025 (and only 48 days until Christmas), I’m getting a bit stressed especially with the holidays looming. But let’s revel in nature today.

As we do on Friday’s we’re joining the sweet pups from Adventures of the LLB Gang for their weekly blog hop. Be sure to click on the link to see what others have shared. Wilson here. My goodness, with so little time left this year, and with so much going on, this message about nature and patience are a bit at odds. But if we’ve learned anything from walking around our neighborhood and noticing the little things, it’s that this Emerson dude gave good advice, don’t you think? Today is a twofer because we’re also joining Dan over at No Facilities to honor fellow blogger, Cee Neuner on what would have been her birthday. Cee passed away earlier this year and used to host the “Which Way Challenge.” Today also happens to be Dan’s birthday and because he’s a favorite of ours, we wanted to share an autumn flower in bloom in her honor since we have no bridges to share. Apparently Cee loved bridges and in this day and age, bridges are more important than ever. Happy Birthday Cee and Dan.

Remembering Cee

Wilson: We hope this bunch of Black Eyed Susan’s might be a good homage.

Black eyed Susan's

The Mum: Hopefully Cee will enjoy it. While I never participated in her blog hop, Dan spoke so highly of her and he’s one of our favorite bloggers who takes remarkable photos in addition to being a very talented writer with several published books and has introduced me to some very talented folks.

Wilson:  Right-o Mum. Happy birthday to both Cee and Dan. So…I’m not sure if any of you knew for certain that ‘we’re’ early risers. Mum has always been a morning person from the days when her were kids were little to when she went to college while working full time while being a single parent. Me, I just get up because I want to be close to Mum. As a floof, I’m rather fond of enjoying an extra 40 winks any time of day, but especially in the early morning hours.

Sleeping Wilson

The Mum: Good morning, lad. Saying you enjoy snoozing is a bit of an overstatement but seeing you like this tends to bring a smile to my face and heart. I love it when you’re this cute.

Wilson: {blushing} Aww, Mum, don’t embarrass me. I was just resting my eyes while you were howling about some hockey game. Sheesh, the noise you make…oh.my.goodness. I’m sure your favorite team can hear you through the TV!

The Mum:  Are you saying I’m loud? I tend to think of myself as more of an engaged fan.

Wilson: “Engaged fan?” Is that what it’s called? Ok, whatever gets you through the night. Anyway, while it’s dark when you get up, we are still able to take walks early on and I can leave you presents in the fallen leaves still pretty easily. It’s crisp and I know we’ll be going later as the temps continue to warm, but I’m enjoying you having to really dig in low light conditions to pick up after me. There have been some fairly breezy conditions lately so leaves are falling into nice little brown piles…perfect for camouflaging my nice little brown pile. Heh, heh, heh.

The Mum:  Ahem…please don’t remind me. I’ve noted that you do have a knack for finding the deepest piles of leaves and/or longest bits of grass or weeds to do your business. It never seems to fail.

Wilson: You know what they say…the way to Carnegie Hall is through lots of practice.

The Mum: I don’t think there are any concerts at Carnegie Hall for what you’re particularly adept at. Just saying.

Wilson: Gosh, you cut me to the quick, Mum. Anyway, let’s share some of the interesting sights we came across this week. First off, this scene from the morning after Halloween. Look at the orange and green on those peppers mixed with a skeleton bone in the pot. The person who lives there seems to have ‘your’ kind of humor. That top pepper reminded me of a Halloween classic…candy corn!

Veggies

The Mum: Hahaha…good one, House Pony. Never let it be said, you don’t have a sense of humor. Now that frost has hit the area a few times, things in the garden take on a whole new perspective.

Wilson:  Even birds gather in groups to watch from their high vantage points. Makes you wonder if these guys had a quorum for their meeting. We don’t usually see such a gathering on houses around our house-they’re usually in trees but this is a new neighborhood we visited recently.

Birds

The Mum: Back in our neighborhood, as you may recall  we brought Figaro inside to keep him safe from frost. Things seemed be going well and then all of a sudden, he must have looked outside, took one look at the falling leaves and decided to follow suite. Awk…poor Figaro. I guess the spot I put him in wasn’t bright enough (apparently just like me) and replicated the outdoor scene. Just look at that pile of leaves! Gah!

Figaro

Wilson: On the bright side, there are lots of buds on some of the bare branches so I hope that’s a good sign. We’ll keep an eye on him and see how he does in the studio window which faces south and provide sufficient light.

The Mum:  I was pretty heartbroken to see all those fallen leaves and hope with a little patience he’ll recover. On the other side of the coin, right on cue, my Christmas cactus has begun blooming. I think they must have mislabeled it-it really seems to be more of Thanksgiving cactus because it always starts budding around the first of November. Hopefully it will bloom throughout both holidays. It’s a pretty pop of color in the kitchen window when things tend to be dull and brown outside.

Christmas cactus

Wilson:  The milkweed is in full bloom and its gossamer silk catches the light nicely. It means there’ll be ongoing food for butterflies next spring.

Milkweed

The Mum: It was almost iridescent in the morning light-I could see it shining from across the street.

Wilson: Lovely Mum, just lovely. But what is this? Isn’t it a bit early to start selling Christmas trees?

Christmas tree lot

The Mum: I was a bit concerned when I first spotted the chain link fencing around the historic old Elitch Garden carousel earlier this week. The next day signs appeared  so while I breathed a sigh of relief, I began scratching my head at the early appearance. Even if you’re counting down the holiday shopping season, nothing says ‘get on with it’ quite like a Christmas tree lot. Yikes!

Wilson: Indeed. Well that’s it for this week. Any big plans for the weekend? The weather, while being a bit cooler, still should be nice and hopefully we can get outdoors to check out what Nature is generously gifting us this time of year. Maybe even a critter or two…paws crossed. Have a great weekend and don’t forget to look for what Nature provides us…when we just take the time to look.

Nature

Lice, love, bark! 🐾

Nature Friday ~ October 10, 2025

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 60 Comments

Welcome to today’s edition of Nature Friday. Today is day 281 in 2025 and there are 82 days left until 2026 arrives. Gosh, where has this year gone? As we always do, we’re joining our friends from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Wilson here with today’s mishmash edition of sights from around our neighborhood. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what others posted about nature this week. Mum was grateful to find enough time in a busy week to snap a few pics, but nothing is really cohesive. Let’s get started, shall we?

Wilson: Oh Muummm. Where in the bloody heck is that woman…

The Mum: {panting out of breath} Sorry, I was preoccupied and just now realized I was running late. Sorry, House Pony. Forgive me?

Wilson: Hmm, let me think…o-kay. Just don’t make being late a regular thing, ‘kay Mum?

The Mum: Yessir. Me thinks someone is just a tad full of himself but let’s see what you’ve got.

Wilson: Well let’s open with a couple of critters who stopped by. Normally I wait until it’s fully dark to have an evening potty break, but the other night I decided to go out at dusk. I thought there might be a squirrel out there (like I always do) so I completely missed the bunny hiding in the dark foliage and low light. Mum has been saying that I’m beginning to resemble a muppet with hair in my eyes, maybe she’s right. I did not see this little guy at all, even when he moved. Mum thinks he might be our strawberry thief. He sure blends in to his surroundings, doesn’t he? If it hadn’t been for his twitching ears, she probably wouldn’t have been able to see him either because he blended in so well.

Rabbit

The Mum: Silly boy…didn’t you hear me whisper, “see the bunny?” You’ve got to stop being so fixated on squirrels. And speaking of squirrels… last week we shared a pic with acorns but this week I managed to capture one of the little hoodlums that usually eat them. He was raising cain for interrupting him when I walked near the Catalpa tree. Noisy little bugger.

Wilson: Well he wouldn’t be so chatty if I’d have been there, I can tell you that. Cheeky little devil.

The Mum:  I’m glad you weren’t outside then. That little guy was quite the taunter and I know how that would have bothered you,. Stick to watching the bunnies, Floof.

Wilson:  Sorry, can’t make that promise. He comes in my yard, there’s going to be some WWF action. But enough about him. So I see you finally found a patch of pretty leaves. Seems like autumn is continuing to take its sweet time showing up this year. What’s that all about? Most of this tree was green except for this clump of leaves.

Autumn leaves

The Mum: It’s been rare seeing the leaves change but this bright spot of color stood out nicely. Leaves have been slow to change and a good share have simply turned brown. It was another pleasant week of cooler temps with a light shower one day. The remnants of that shower showed up in a couple of pics.

Tomato in rain

Wilson: I see the tomatoes are still producing fruit.

The Mum: I have enjoyed fresh, tasty tomatoes for the past few months but to tell the truth, I’m tired of eating them twice a day just to keep up with all of the new ones ripening and have started removing flowers since it’s unlikely for them to mature before the first frost anyway. I gave away a couple of bags this week too. Next year I won’t plant multiple plants which should help. Every year is always an adventure when you garden, and I learned that there’s a limit to good things. There’ll be lots of rich organic material for next year.

Wilson: ‘Figaro’ seems to have enjoyed the moisture. The fruit is slow to ripen and with it being late in the growing season, it will be good to bring it indoors in the next few days and keep me company.

Figs

The Mum: I have so enjoyed watching ‘Figaro’ grow over the summer and think he will be a nice edition to the indoor garden as well.

Wilson: So what was that funky weird green thing we saw yesterday on one of our walks? It looked like a piece of a green leaf but then it moved and it startled me.

Katydid

The Mum: Silly boy, that’s an insect known as Microcentrum rhombifolium, commonly referred to as a greater angle-winged katydid. They are widespread throughout the world except in Antarctica and live in trees and shrubs. As insects go, they’re kind of big reaching anywhere from 50–65 millimeters (2.0–2.6 in) in length and are rhombus-shaped. I usually don’t see them since they camouflage themselves nicely by looking like leaves. You generally see them in late summer and they should be considered a ‘backyard buddy’ as they prey on garden pests like aphids and do some pollination as well. While they do eat leaves, any damage is mostly negligible since they tend to move on quickly leaving little damage. They are an important segment of the food chain providing food for birds, frogs or other garden critters. Katydids are gentle bugs and harmless to humans and are not poisonous. They make a “ticking” sound with two or three  syllables. “Kat-y-did, kat-y, kat-y-did” and while they have a pair of leaf-like wings, they are unable to fly.

Wilson: Hmmm, What a fascinating bug. So glad it wasn’t another toxic thing like plants you’ve focused on lately. I didn’t hear it making any noise but given that it didn’t stick around after posing for us, but I’m sure I would have liked enjoying a little tune before checking it out more closely.

The Mum: He probably would have not been impressed with your ginormous nose getting all up in his grill once he saw you investigating him. You tend to frighten off little critters.

Wilson: It no doubt due to the squirrels’ telling malicious lies about me. Critters should realize  I’m a harmless floof.

The Mum: I think the squirrels have every reason to avoid you and doubt they are spreading any lies.

Wilson: {interrupting} But Mum, bugs and bunnies avoid me like the plague.

The Mum: Well, you are so much bigger than they are and it’s natural to avoid potentially threatening creatures.

Wilson: Well I mean them no harm, I just wish they’d let me get close enough to sniff them and then they’d know I could be a wonderfully fabulous friend.

The Mum: {chuckling to herself} It’s not very likely but you can always hope. So are you doing anything exciting this weekend?

Wilson: I’m meeting one of your friends who just recently moved back to Colorado from California so I’m excited about making a new friend. Other than that, I’m open for new adventures in this glorious season called autumn. We hope you have loads of fun and are able to get outside and enjoy some of the finer aspects of autumn.

Nature

Live, love, bark! 🐾

Nature Friday ~ April 25, 2025

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 58 Comments

Wilson Greetings mates…and welcome to Day 115 of this year. As we do on Fridays, we’re joining our friends Rosy & Sunny from  the LLB Gang for their weekly Nature blog hop. Be sure to click on the link to see what scenes were shared by others.

The Mum: Ummm, good morning, House Pony. Now could you please get off my laptop?

Wilson: Oh right, sorry about that. Just thought you needed some up close and personal help.

The Mum:  Uhhh, that’s very sporting of you but I think I’m good. Besides, you don’t have any thumbs.

Wilson: Mum, it’s not nice to point out negative aspects of one’s anatomy. I’m a bit disappointing you’d resort to something like that.

The Mum:  Nothing malicious intended, sweet boy. Just pointing out obvious differences. We both have to work with what we’ve got for each situation. Feel better now?

Wilson: Okay, but you know how sensitive I am. As long as you don’t mean anything by it, I’m good.

The Mum: Of course, the one thing we are here at the Ranch is kind. That’s a rule that will not be ignored. So what do we have for today’s slices of nature?

Wilson: Uh right…let’s get started. People are going to think we’ve gone batty about birds.

The Mum: Yeah, it kind of does seem that way. While most people show cool raptors and diverse images of birds, when you live in the heart of the city, your options are somewhat limited.

Birds-pigeons
Yoo-hoo, my love…look at this terrific leaf I found.

Wilson: Well one thing that’s universal is it’s definitely springtime and springtime is nest building time for birds of all stripes right now. Even if it’s a simple rock dove…more commonly known as a pigeon. In some places they are referred to as rats with wings since they eat just about anything. Here’s a male collecting some nest material in a parking garage. Adults are about 11-15 inches long (29 to 37 cm) and weigh anywhere from 8-13 oz (238–380 g). They typically have a dark bluish-grey head, neck, and chest feathers with glossy iridescence around their necks.The most identifying characteristic of this bird is those two black bars on their pale grey wings with their tails having a black band on the end, and the outer web of the tail feathers are lined in white. Pigeons are known to be quick on the wing when surprised or avoiding potential predators. Eye color is generally orange, red, or gold and they have those weird red/pink colored feet. Did you know the females are nearly identical as the males though the iridescence is less intense.

The Mum: Oh my goodness…I see you did some homework.

Wilson: Well, I am a professional and enjoy knowing little bits and bobs about things. It’s important for one to be curious about the day to day stuff. More people out to try it, especially since they they’re constantly looking at their cell phones.

The Mum:  I say Wilson…good job. I found those pigeons when I parked my car at the doctor’s office. I don’t know why but I was simply fascinated watching them as they busily were ‘feathering their nest.’

Birds-pigeons
Thanks Rufus, nice leaf…I’ll just tuck it right here.

Wilson: You must have been really engrossed in watching them-you were almost late for your eye appointment.

The Mum: Yeah, but it was nice to be captivated for several moments watching their rituals as they prepare for new babies. They almost didn’t mind me watching them working on their construction project-a common scene around the city.

Wilson: I noticed after your eye appointment, you went on a long walk around that neighborhood and found some serious signs of spring.

The Mum: It’s a habit I can’t seem to break. I used to live nearby and whenever I’m on the east side of town, I always have to walk by my old house. Like everywhere in the Mile High City, the neighborhood has changed so much. It’s very dismaying to see beautiful old Victorians torn down in favor of box-like McMansions. Fortunately my little 1900 Victorian cottage is still standing, having last sold for almost 19 times more than what I paid for it. Yikes!

Wilson: Gosh, Mum, that’s wild. It was a tiny little house but gentrification has really inflated home values.

The Mum: Yeah, it’s a truly bizarre real estate market, but enough of that. Why don’t you show some of the signs of spring from around that neighborhood.

Wilson: Right, well that part of town seems a little bit farther along than the area around the Ranch. I mean don’t bearded irises usually bloom in May?

The Mum: Indeed. In fairness though, they are starting to bud up on our side of town around the Ranch but I haven’t seen any that were flowering. This is your classic purple iris. Nothing flashy but oh my gosh, so early.

Wilson: Early, eh? What about this somewhat out of focus Bleeding Heart (sorry about that). Guess it surprised you so much, you couldn’t hold the camera straight.

Bleading Heart

The Mum: {blushing with embarrassment) Something like that. To say I was stunned would have been an understatement. Around our neighborhood, I haven’t seen any even close to blooming. Must be because of the sunlight exposure. They sure are pretty and fairly easy to grow.

Wilson: I see you found some new garden art on your walk.

The Mum: Yeah, I can’t help myself. When I came across these frogs, I kept thinking now that Lent is over I could actually enjoy an alcoholic beverage. Suddenly I was craving Mexican food and margaritas-hold the salt, please.

Wilson: I can practically hear them singing ay-yi-yi-ing from that sunny spot.

The Mum: You’re a real hoot, you know that? So what else do you have for this week?

Wilson: Looks like the lupine are starting their annual surprise appearance in odd places where they weren’t planted.Lupine

The Mum: I had to chuckle about where this one showed up. It’s not even remotely close to where last year’s lupine bloomed in that part of the garden. It always makes me smile. I’m looking forward to seeing what color the blossoms will be.

Wilson: Well, Mum, it’s time for me to go on my morning constitutional so I’m going to wrap this up. Be sure to get outside and enjoy the longer daylight with slices of nature that are appearing in your neighborhood. Is spring in full swing near you? Have a great weekend.

Nature Friday

Live, love, bark! 🐾

Nature Friday ~ April 11, 2025

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 46 Comments

Denver AquariumWelcome to this week’s edition of Nature Friday in April, where we’re joining the LLB Gang for their weekly blog hop. Be sure to click on the link to see what scenes from nature others are sharing. This week my great-granddaughter turned one year old and the family visited the Denver Aquarium to celebrate. Kids young and old are fascinated by the calming sight of fish floating through coral and rocks. While it’s challenging to photograph fish in large tanks with glass reflection, not to mention the occasional photo bomber or poor positioning due to large crowds visiting, we apologize in advance here. That said, let’s ‘dive in,’ so to speak.

Wilson: Right, Mum. I’m sure glad they don’t allow dogs. You know how I feel about water especially since I received the full professional water torture treatment so I could visit patients and staff at the hospital. The only water I’m interested in lives in my water bowl where I’m happy to gulp and make a mess with the best of ’em. The Downtown Aquarium (originally known as Colorado’s Ocean Journey) opened back in 1999. It’s not huge as aquariums go, however the aquarium holds approximately 1,000,000 US gallons (3,785,000 L), and exhibits a variety of fish and other animals.

The Mum: That’s right, House Pony…the aquarium was rebranded in 2005 as the Downtown Aquarium after Ocean Journey filed  bankruptcy when it wasn’t able to make the high construction cost repayments. The restaurant chain, Landry’s Restaurant purchased the facility in 2003 and remodeled the premises by adding a full restaurant, bar and ballroom for events.

Wilson: This aquarium examines the relationship between inland freshwater ecosystems and the ocean and features the path of two rivers in their route to the ocean (namely, the Colorado River and the Kampur River in Indonesia).

Reticulate Whipray
Reticulate Whipray

Wilson: After the 2005 renovations, the two paths were continued although they are not arranged in a zoogeographic pattern. Tanks were added to showcase species from African and South American freshwater ecosystems and some tanks are mixed community spaces. There are several interactive exhibits, including a stingray touch-and-feed tank. Check out the Reticulate Whipray that looked like a leopard. It’s a large species from the Indo-Pacific area. I notice you chose not to pet him.

The Mum: Yeah, I had a minor infection on one of my finger tips and decided there were plenty of people to pet him so I’m sure he didn’t miss my fingers running along his skin.

Wilson: Whoa…for someone who’s so gung-ho about petting animals, that was a surprise. But I applaud you for thinking of the welfare of ‘therapy ray.’

The Mum: I just thought it was prudent for him. Besides, I was kind of mesmerized by the way he floated around and didn’t even realize I wasn’t petting him. He did seem to enjoy the attention under the watchful eye of the human attendant who was quick to correct overly enthusiastic visitors.

Wilson: The aquarium continues to focus on conservation by housing many endangered or threatened species. There are twelve species of fish, six reptiles, two mammals, and two birds and the aquarium participates in the American Species Survival Plan for Sumatran tigers with two gorgeous young male tigers, Rudi and Luhahn who will be featured in another post.

The Mum: There were loads of students on field trips and I couldn’t help watch them checking out all the fish. The largest tank is the one where everyone is awed. It was quite something to see sharks floating in front of and above the crowds, almost like a cave. Most of the sharks were females but there were a couple of males that looked quite fearsome.

Shark
Shark
Shark
Shark

Wilson: Gosh, Mum…it’s not even Shark Week! But I can see why everyone wants to see them. Say, didn’t your grandson dive in the tank with them years ago on his birthday?

The Mum: He did and we chatted about his recollections. It began his ongoing love with diving and the ocean. I ‘m afraid I’d be too afraid to do that as an adult, let alone as a spry young kiddo.

Wilson: I don’t blame you for not getting in. There’s water involved and not nearly enough treats to make me want to get in it.

The Mum: Silly boy. Diving is not for everyone but it’s good that some people are willing to do the research to save and protect these amazing creatures. I mean, just look at those rows of teeth!

Wilson: Ummm, I think I’ll pass on focusing on all those teeth. Let’s look at a few more of the creatures from the aquarium.

Octopus
Octopus
Sea star
Sea star
Sea Anemones
Sea Anemones
Fossil
Fossil

The Mum: It was a great visit and I loved watching Halia’s reaction to the fish floating around. I’m sure it was somewhat overwhelming for her but glad she had the opportunity to be exposed to the natural world. Well, we’d better skedaddle for the hospital. Another big day, buddy. You were a real superstar and I know there will be more opportunities to bring smiles to folks today. This afternoon, I’m going out to pick up a sheepdog who’s coming into our rescue. Her family is moving here from out of state and the landlord won’t allow pets so she’s relinquishing her girl. While I don’t know a whole lot about her, I’ll have a better idea later this afternoon. It’s going to be a big day. What’s on your weekend schedule?

Wilson: Whatever it is, we hope you can get outside and experience a great springtime weekend. You’ll have to fill me in after you pick her up. I’m glad the owner had sense enough to contact us but sad that she’ll lose her family. I know how traumatic that can be and we’re keeping our paws crossed it goes well. Have a great weekend, mates.

Nature FridayLive, love, bark! 🐾

Nature Friday ~ February 21, 2025

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 77 Comments

Elsa{Cough…wheeze} Welcome to this week’s wrap up from last week’s visit to the Broomfield Depot Museum while she was killing time waiting to pick up the House Pony from the groomer. Elsa here…I’m only a little better so if any of you have wizard-like powers, I’d sure appreciate you sprinkling me with some good Juju magic.

Today we’re going to share info about Broomfield’s Depot Museum Please enjoy this YouTube video on the Depot’s restoration.

Wilson: Mum loves historical places and always likes to investigate unusual or unexpected things inside and outside the Depot. After capturing those prairie dog images, she went inside to see what  life in general looked like in 1909 Broomfield.

Broomfield Depot living room scene

Elsa: Mom was skeptical as to whether there was electricity for that toaster from last week but she discovered that electricity actually came to Colorado in the late 1800’s during the railroad boom. It makes sense that this stop would showcase some of the modern conveniences of the times that passengers liked. Pictured above is the Kolster Tombstone Tube Radio with a vintage Kodak box camera on top of it. However both items were actually from the mid-to-late 1920’s. They were likely added to the display because of their antique-y look of the period and might have been added after the Depot was opened.

Wilson: You’re right, Ninja. She suspected many of the items displayed at the Depot were more associated with the 1920’s, like this amazing looking ice box.

Antique ice box

Elsa: That piece is in great condition, though and is similar to this early 1900’s wall-mounted telephone. I’m going out on a limb by saying they probably didn’t use this phone to order an Uber carriage ride home after they reached the station.

Antique telephone

Wilson: That’s likely a good bet. But we’re very sure this next photo showing a Hall’s Safe & Lock Company safe (circa 1849) actually was one of the initial things they had when the Depot opened to safely stash ticket receipts. At that time, the Cincinnati based Hall’s company sold half of all fireproof and burglar-proof safes and vaults in the US and was the largest vault company in the world by 1892.

Antique safe 1849

Elsa: I’ll bet that was one heavy safe and it looks like it too was in pretty good condition.

Wilson: It sure is. As is this classic Hoosier cabinet which was very popular from 1900 to 1930. Around the 1890s, several furniture manufacturers in Indiana discovered that a stand-alone kitchen cabinet with storage and workspace would be an easy sell. Having a kitchen workstation where ingredients and various utensils could be stored, yet easily accessed when preparing meals and they were all the rage. It’s always a treat when Mum finds antiques like these especially when they’re in such good shape. She used to go antiquing years ago and still has a few nice pieces she collected nearly 50 years ago.

Hoosier cabinet

Elsa: Whoa…didn’t realize that Mom was that old. {heh, heh} Because I know how much you like meals, where do you think they stored the dog food?

Wilson: {oooh..yum…smack…drool} Good question…I personally think our food should have been stored in that large door on the bottom left but I’m sure things were a lot different for us dogs back then.

Elsa: Easy on the drool, buddy. Let’s get back to focusing on what else Mom found at the Depot.

Wilson: {disappointed} You sure know how to take the joy out of sharing these images.

Elsa: Not everything is about food, dude.

Wilson: {gasp} Perish the thought but I saved the best history for last. There wasn’t any info that Mum found during her quick poke around inside the Depot but she did a lot of sniffing around when she got home about “Shep, the Turnpike Dog,” after she came upon this spot outside. She wanted to know all about Shep.

Shep, Turnpike Dog

Elsa: So the story goes that back in the early 1950’s when the Denver-Boulder Turnpike toll opened, Shep was already a fixture on the scene. Rumored to be part of a litter of pups who escaped from a farmer, Shep apparently made his way to the construction site where the toll road was being built. Workers on the toll road would share their lunches with the friendly pooch and then Shep was eventually enticed to sleep in the toll booth on a cold night. Being no ordinary fool, Shep welcomed the invitation and then spent part of his days with the toll booth operators where he quickly became their mascot. Soon travelers would offer treats, toys, bones and even left donations to fund food for the engaging dog as they made their way along the toll way.

Wilson: He sure sounded like he enjoyed his ‘job.’ I know first hand people love dogs with a purpose and he likely brought a lot of joy to folks traveling on the turnpike.

Elsa: He was beloved and after he was shot, he managed to return to the toll booth where workers rushed him to a nearby vet, Clyde Bruner who treated the canine celebrity for free. Shep lived the rest of his life at the toll booth and Dr. Bruner treated him for various injuries incurred from coyote interactions. As Shep aged, he began to lose his eyesight and toll booth workers decided rather than have him suffer or get seriously injured around all the cars, and he was euthanized in 1964 at age 14.

Wilson: That seems rather sad, though Mum told me he lived a good life and was personally buried by the highway superintendent, Paul Kempf. A donated headstone marked the grave until 2009 when the Department of Transportation gave the Broomfield Museum permission to move the grave from Zang Spur Park to the Depot Museum which also had been relocated from its original location. He lived at the tollbooth for 14 years. [Photo credits: Justin Kent, L, and Jeff Kissinger, of Broomfield Parks, dug out the grave markers for Shep the Turnpike Dog for the move from his resting place at the intersection of Hwy. US 36 and State Hwy. 121 to the Depot Hill Museum in 2009. Photo courtesy-Staff photo/David R. Jennings.]

Moving the grave
Broomfield Enterprise Photo
Shep photo-Denver Post
Photo: The Denver Post

Shep, Turnpike Dog

Elsa: Gotta love the inscription on the newer headstone. Sounds like quite a dog and another story of famous dogs from the metro area. Well done, House Pony.

Wilson: Many thanks, Ninja. Sharing stories like this always warms Mum’s heart. We dogs are special creatures and by telling their stories, others recognize all of our contributions.

Elsa: Umm, let’s not get carried away with nostalgia but it’s suffice to say how important it is to learn about the local history. So what’s on your dance card for the weekend? Our weather will be taking a detour on the winter from hell tour (color us happy) At the time this post was written we had high hopes but after last night’s 8-10 inch dump, it looks like Mom will only be digging out. I feel sorry for her sternum and torn bicep because this is a heavy snow. Originally I had hoped I’d be well enough to go for a short walk but Mom barely let me go potty this morning. . No offense Mom, but being inside with you all day is getting old, even with the snuffle mats and the Licki-Mat bowl to exercise our minds. Whatever you do, we hope your weather permits you to enjoy the nicer elements that Nature might offer. If you can find them.

Nature FridayLive, love, bark! 🐾

Nature Friday ~ December 13, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 64 Comments

Wilson We made it to another Friday. Is it just me or are the days leading up to the Santa Paws visit coming faster and more furiously? With just 2 weeks to go, our poor Mom is going crazy. She’s been furiously working on her Christmas cards and {snicker-snicker} trying to add a few touches of holiday cheer around the Ranch (translate…adding a tiny table tree) as well as taking the House Pony to hospital to visit with nurses, visitors and patients and then taking me to the vet yesterday for a routine checkup. I don’t have the heart to tell her she’s gotta do her Christmas baking this weekend.  Hi, Elsa here.As if last week’s humiliation at the dog spa wasn’t bad enough, like I mentioned I had to endure a vet visit at the new practice that’s closer to the Ranch. Wilson went to see them during their grand opening and Mom was pretty impressed with the whole clinic. Dr. Melberg was super nice but his tech was even nicer and I liked her very much. I’m usually pretty aloof around strangers unless I like them. A lot. And Wilson’s vet tech popped in to give me a special treat. Yum, yum. Don’t tell my Mom, but I could get used to this attention and treat thing. Also, don’t tell my oaf of a brother…he thinks he’s so special and I’ll never be able to live with his big fat inflated head.

New vet

Wilson: {singing} Doh-de-do-dah…humming…good morning, Ninja. How are you this fine Friday the Thirteenth?

Elsa: Umm, ok…but why are you so chipper today? You ready to share some slices of nature?

Wilson: Of course I’m chipper, I didn’t have to go to the vet.  After a great week where I spent a lot of time at the hospital, I can do a few photos. I’m getting pretty good at this multitasking thing-being a dapper chap after being freshly groomed this week as well as providing some interesting pics we found this week. But this week’s pics are a tiny bit unusual in that we’re featuring Christmas critters. How’s that sound?

Elsa: Don’t rub it in on the vet visit. Bet you wanted to feature squirrels dressed up like tiny elves, don’t you?

Wilson: Umm, I’m not going to lie, that would be entertaining, but no. Mum didn’t see any tiny little elves but she did notice a fair number of neighbors who brought out some big critters…and I’m not talking about those noisy inflatable critters. There’s a fair number of them and some blocks seem to be competing for the title of tackiest seasonal garden ever. This house in particular makes my head practically explode every time we walk past it. What the bloody dog is up with those folks?

Christmas decor

Elsa: Oy…I don’t know how you can walk past that house, day after day. Talk about too much!

Wilson: Precisely. There’s so much going on in that garden, and we only got half of it in the frame! That block is squirrel central-there’s a gob of them there but I can’t spot them for all these decorations. What’s a good dog to do? I prefer subtle decor.

Elsa: Blah, blah, blah…ok, I don’t blame you this time. What do you have in terms of Christmas critter photos?

Wilson: Well, as you alluded to earlier, it’s been a hectic week and we didn’t really see a too much actual nature. Everyone in the neighborhood is busy decorating their gardens-some tastefully and others…well not to cast dispersions but others are more like the photo above. But we did have a couple of nice sunsets. Does that count for actual nature photos?

Elsa: Sure, why not. I mean since Mom’s been busy and there aren’t anymore of those obnoxious inflatables, bring on what you got.

Wilson: Mum loves sunrises since we’re always up early but we saw a sunset with some beautiful color for a change of pace. She loved looking through the silhouetted tree limbs to see that pretty color.

Sunset

Sunset

Elsa: Oooh, nice, dude. I remember that evening. It was bright and not too chilly after Monday’s quick snowstorm.

Wilson: Yeah that was something else. The forecast says we may have a couple more quick storms over the next several days. Maybe we can make a snowman?

Elsa: Umm, yeah, no. There’s too much to do before Santa Paws arrives and I don’t want to spend time making a snowman when there are dog treats to bake.

Wilson: Egad, you’re right. Time to be efficient with our time! Well when we’re out on our daily constitutions, we’ll still look for tasteful Christmas decor. First up, I spotted a moose! I mean, a MOOSE…in our neighborhood. What are the odds?

Elsa: Hmm, haven’t seen one of those in the neighborhood, although we did have some deer noshing on the groundcover in our Dr. Dolittle post.

Moose

Wilson:  Whoa…you had real live deer in the garden?? I say, that’s something, considering we live so close to the downtown business center but I’m getting used to seeing hooved critters like these.

Deer Deer

Elsa: Meh…more stuff to store by my way of thinking but at least those guys are quiet. I like peace and quiet. This is the season of peace and these fit the bill.

Wilson: Peace is good. I liked this little bear too. He didn’t seem too threatening toward Mum, me or the snowman he was sitting next to.

Bear

Elsa: {eyes rolling} Threatening? You really are a buffoon, aren’t you? You know it’s not real, right?

Wilson: Oh right, I kind of got caught up in the moment. My bad.

Elsa: Just wanted to keep you grounded. You’re taking this Christmas critter thing a bit too serious. At least you didn’t growl at any of the critters.

Wilson: Mum was quite proud of me, especially where the moose was concerned. I approached it cautiously though because those things can be dangerous.

Elsa: Oh for heaven’s sake. Those aren’t real; there’s no danger!!

Wilson: I’m not taking any changes. I mean, I don’t want you to get your tinsel all twisted like me during our recent photo shoot. Where Mum gets these ideas I have no idea. We hope you all have a sporting good weekend and are able to enjoy a spot of real nature as you’re out and about rushing around finishing up your holiday preparations.

Wilson, Christmas

Elsa: You do know when you pose like that, it gives Mom more incentive to do more photo sessions with costumes?

Wilson: Yes, I do realize it. I’ve also figured out the high value treats flow readily. See, I’m not a complete fool. Nom, nom. Have a great weekend!

Nature Friday

Nature Friday ~ November 1, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 47 Comments

Welcome to this week’s edition of Nature Friday where we join our friends from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what others posted. Elsa here. Can you believe it, there are only 60 days left in 2024?? My heavens, where did this year go? This week’s post is what I’m calling the “Last of the Mohicans” since there’s not a lot of flowers left after we experienced a hard frost yesterday morning. While we’re glad the days have turned toward more seasonal autumn temps, it was a bit of a shock to the system to walk in such chilly conditions. Mom even drug out our coats as it we received a couple of drops of moisture and the wind chill was pronounced.

Wilson: Ooh, ooh, please let me show a photo of that, okay?

Elsa: Go for it, House Pony.

Wilson: I rather enjoyed wearing my coat and you looked quite fetching yourself.

Wilson & Elsa in coats

Elsa: I was more impressed that you and I walked together so closely. We start out next to each other these days for our walks but then you peel off to go ‘water’ a tree or some other poor piece of nature. It’s just so weird, even Mom commented on how we’re doing next to each other. I guess after nearly 11 months, I’m getting better about accepting you as a brother and not nearly as timid.

Wilson: Gosh, you’re right. I hadn’t noticed. I’m always so focused on my surroundings and keeping my eyes peeled for squirrels.

Elsa: I figured as much-you tend to forget I’m around and bump me when you plow through. I’m getting better about letting you go first but Mom has started making you wait until I clear a doorway or other narrow pathway.

Wilson: I’m sorry, it’s not intentional to bump you, I just tend to be a bit wound up. Maybe with this walking next to each other thing will become more common and I’ll get used to not being  a bulldozer.

Elsa: Hope springs eternal. My balance reflexes are a tad teeter-y. But I know Mom’s got my back so behave yourself, dude. Okay?

Wilson: Right, I’m trying hard to be less excitable. So did you notice the red leaves have started falling in big numbers?

Falling leaves

Elsa: Sure did. Mom was oohing and aahing the whole walk. Show everyone just how much moisture we received. What was it, 12-15 drops?

Drops on leaves

Wilson: Right…it wasn’t much. The forecasters who said we may receive a spot of snow were wrong but they tell me now we may receive a few inches on Monday.

Elsa: Well…can’t wait for that…oh wait…yes I can. These past couple of chilly mornings have made the ole bones just a tad creaky and I’ve enjoyed taking over your cuddle bed.

Wilson: I’ve noticed that but I tend to occupy it on the afternoon/evening shift. Mum said she needs to find another one but has no place to put it since there are beds galore throughout the house. Guess for now, we’ll just have to share it and I’m on board with that.

Elsa: Thanks, I appreciate that. So what else have you got?

Wilson: Well like you said, it’s getting a bit sparse on flower blooming. Our neighbor had a few gorgeous roses but he must have cut them because they were gone late yesterday afternoon. Our Canadian shrub roses look fairly pitiful with only a few bracts blooming. This was the best of the lot and I’m only showing to for Rosy.

Rose

Elsa: You’re right, pretty pathetic. Hope Rosy doesn’t hold that against us.

Wilson: {gasp} Sweet Rosy would never do that! She’d just smile and be gracious as always. We do have a couple of tomatoes that survived the frost but I think Mum is going to ash-can the plant. They likely won’t taste very good. I know she’s going to miss noshing on fabulous tomatoes. The ones in the grocery store seem to be pretty flavorless.

Tomatoes

Elsa: I wouldn’t know…they’re veggies and when it comes to veggies, I only willingly eat green beans and broccoli.

Wilson: Oh, you’re missing out on a lot of tasty morsels and I’m happy to take your portions for you. You hear that, Mum? Give Elsa’s tomatoes and fruit snacks to me. She said it’s okay.

Elsa: {eyes rolling} Egad, you are shameless when it comes to tiny morsels.

Wilson: You can never have too many tidbits, I say.

Elsa: {moving along} Well I see there are still a few snapdragons blooming. They are so resilient.

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Wilson: They certainly are! So are the Zinnias and now that the temperatures are cooler, the Pansies have started to bloom too.

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Elsa: Those pansies are cute. I’m kind of over the Zinnias and marigolds, they’re looking way too bedraggled.

Wilson: But the Plumbago has come alive with rich mahogany leaf-color. There are just a few blue flowers now but the Plumbago is giving the maple trees a run for its money.

Plumbago

Elsa: Well I for one hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween. There were no trick-or-treaters last night so it was peaceful and quiet. Good thing, I’d have given them a piece of my mind like I did with yesterday’s creature where I barked yelled “Boo!” to on our walk. Try to scare me…get over your bad self!

Halloween

Wilson: I for one appreciate you standing up for me. Now that we’re through Halloween, we can focus on Thanksgiving. I’m salivating just thinking about all the yummy food that will be served…

Elsa: {interrupting} There you go again, thinking with your stomach.

Wilson: What’s wrong with that?

Elsa: I. can’t. even. begin. to. explain. it. Suffice to say we hope you have a great weekend and are able to get out and enjoy the return of nice weather and hope you find one of the beautiful sights Mother Nature provides for us. Enjoy celebrating Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) this weekend.

Day of the Dead (DBG)

Nature Friday

Live, love, bark! 🐾

 

Nature Friday ~ October 25, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 53 Comments

ElsaWelcome to this week’s Nature Friday post. As has been typical…oh let’s see, since forever, October joined all the other months that set records. While not as warm as September,  temps are still about 15-20ºF above average, with crisp mornings. Hi, Elsa here. As always we’re joining our friends from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what others shared. This week’s photos are a  bit all over the map-Mom couldn’t seem to get her act together for a coherent theme. And speaking of incoherent, here’s the House Pony to try to make sense of the photos.

Wilson: Hello mates, Happy Friday. My snarky sister is right, Mum really didn’t have a specific theme this week but we’ll try to make it interesting nonetheless.

Elsa: That may be a stretch but I’m sure you’ll do the best you can given the pickings are somewhat slim.

Wilson: Yeah, while Mum and I have been walking 5 miles a day, scenes along our route haven’t changed that much though I will note Mum saw a re-blooming iris two days ago. It’s the first time she’s ever seen one that wasn’t white. It’s actually rather pretty and no, Ninja, I didn’t sniff it for marking purposes.

Reblooming iris

Elsa: Wha…how dare you accuse me of being ready to pounce on that softball, err…that comment. But I’m convinced you thought about it.

Wilson: I did not. I was a good chap and Mum was proud of me.

Elsa: Well that has to be a first. So what was all that ranting and raving about that unusual find the other morning? I was on that walk and I couldn’t see what big deal was all about

Wilson: You mean that mushroom we found? Mum thinks it might have been an oyster mushroom or possibly a mock oyster mushroom. She said she wasn’t a mycophile by any means but she was pretty excited about coming across its path. Typically our humidity is in the low to mid-teens so for this one to sprout up in the gravel was definitely something to get jazzed about.

Elsa: Then again, maybe not so much. We see far more interesting things all the time. But whatever cranks your handle is fine by me.

Mushroom
Wilson: Well can I just say I was fascinated. I haven’t seen anything like that around here, at least not since I became a Ranch Hand and thought perhaps you might be intrigued with it.

Elsa: Nope, not even the slightest. Now…show me that chubby racoon that’s been waddling around our ‘Hood in the early morning, and I’m all over it. They are such fascinating critters. And that one who’s so chunky is particularly interesting. He’s barked at me before. I wanted to give him a piece of my mind, but Mom was adamant that we avoid any encounter at all costs. She can be such a killjoy sometimes.

Wilson: Tell me about it. She’s gotten so strict about me not even getting close to squirrels. It’s a major drag that I can’t chase after them. I’m sure I could catch one, I just know it. I’m quite speedy, you know.

Elsa: Yeah, yeah, yeah and you could whip it with one paw tied behind your back. Spare me, brother.

Wilson: I say, dear sister. No need to be so harsh. I was just saying…

Elsa: {interrupting} Oh spare me. Nobody wants to hear you yammering on about how close you came to bagging a squirrel.

Wilson: {miffed} Fine, I won’t say a thing about it.

Elsa: Promise? Ahhh, peace and quiet…just what I was praying for…

Wilson: {steamed} Oh so you planned to trick me into not talking about it, eh? Well that’s rather unkind. You know you could just do the post yourself if you don’t like what I’m sharing.

Elsa: Sheesh, lighten up, dude. Don’t be overly sensitive. Be more like me. Like I could give a rat’s…

Wilson: Umm Mum said to stop talking like that. You’d be well to heed that directive.

Elsa: Whatever…I’m the Ranch’s only princess…I can pretty much get away with just about anything. I mean, look at last week’s post where I munch her ballot. And here I am to tell about it. Heh, heh…this ‘no consequences’ thing is just awesome, I mean…hmm, it’s got me thinking…I wonder what else I can get away with…

Wilson: Best not, I’d have to report you to Mum. She was more than irritated with you again after you ate the latest flyer from Costco.

Elsa: Yeah, I did a really amazing shredding job on that yesterday morning. Mom doesn’t need the flyer anyway; she’d just spend money on stupid stuff instead of dehydrated liver treats on moi.

Wilson: Best not to chance it. You just never know and I sure as the devil don’t want to be blamed for something you did.

Elsa: Un-lax big guy. I’ve got the ‘Mom’ touch. She gives me a lot of latitude because of my early years in the puppy mill. And of course, the fact that I’m an epi-warrior just adds to her feeling sorry for me. I mean, talk about the luck of not one but “two get out of jail free” cards. I’m golden, trust me.

Wilson: Best not to push it. Besides, Mum loves it when we behave nicely.

Elsa: {eyes rolling} I’ll always be her favorite. You can take that to the bank.

Wilson: Not 100% sure about that but let’s share yesterday’s beautiful sunrise. With days getting shorter and it not being quite as hot, we’re able to eat our breakfast before going on our morning constitution. I rather like sleeping in a bit instead of having to go for a ‘crack of dawn’ walk. It’s nice to saunter outside and check out the pretty sunrise.

Sunrise

Elsa:  Whoa…nice clouds. I was too busy going potty to notice that bright orangey cloud. Mom was blown away by how bright it was. The mornings have been so clear so that was a nice treat.

Wilson: Treat, where? Wait, oh, I think you’re teasing me again. I know Mom will give me a nice tasty treat and it’ll be acceptable to eat it. I’m getting very good with waiting until she gives me the ok command. Anyway, we walked past a nearby church the other morning and saw how they created this scene. Kinda cool. Not sure if it means something because I’m not Episcopalian but it did catch Mum’s eye.

Rocks

Elsa: Don’t look at me for an explanation. Maybe someone reading this will know if it means something special. Anyway, it’s nicely done at any rate.

Wilson: Agreed. So the leaves around the Ranch have just begun to change in the last couple of days. Many are just so dried out but Mum found this tree with a bit of color yesterday morning. It was very breezy yesterday and looked a lot like it was almost snowing.

Changing leaves

Elsa: I know she’s been on the hunt for a very large leaf to put on top of your head because you’re so easy. Consider yourself lucky it’s been windy to thwart those efforts to make you look ridiculous. I’ve already put her on notice, I ain’t posing. Period.

Wilson: Don’t be so sure, I saw her pulling down that box that contains all the bandanas, hats and costumes in anticipation of Halloween. I just hope she’s too busy to pull it all together.

Elsa: Egad…so that’s what she was doing. Oh right, I’ll be laying low. Speaking of Halloween, what scene did you decide on sharing this week? There have been so many to choose from, won’t it be hard to find just one?

Wilson: You’re right about that, there have been so many but this one seemed to be truly out of the norm. We are definitely not fans of inflatables but this one caught Mum’s eye. I don’t think I’d want to stop at that house for treats.

Halloween

Elsa: Wait, you’d skip this house? Well that’s gotta be a first. But I’m with you. I wouldn’t want to stop at that house either. That’s just creeps-ville, dude.

Wilson: I agree. Well that’s it from me. So many of you were concerned about Mum’s ballot problem last week but I’m happy to report she filled it out as soon as she got home and hand delivered it to a nearby drop box. She received notice from the Secretary of State a couple of days later saying they’d received, verified the signature and accepted it. Whew. Look what they sent her in return-it even has the state flower, the Columbine, in the design. Pretty cool, don’t you think?

I voted

Elsa: Nope, I can’t chew up a digital sticker. Anyway, glad the whole thing is over now-she droned on about it endlessly. We hope you all have a terrific weekend and are able to get out and enjoy finding some slices of nature before daylight saving time ends.

Nature Friday

Live, love, bark! 🐾

Nature Friday ~ October 18, 2024

~ Tails Around the Ranch ~ 59 Comments

Elsa on sofa

{Whispering} Welcome to this week’s edition of Nature Friday where we join our hosts, Rosy and Sunny from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what others shared. Elsa here with the latest skinny from around the Ranch. I wanted to start today’s post before that numbskull messes it up like he did last week. On the one hand, it’s still pretty dark early in the morning so pardon me for whispering-don’t want to wake up the kraken. On the other hand, it’s dark and by getting up early to beat that fool, I’m missing out on my beauty sleep. The things I do for this blog.

Anyway, this has been a whirlwind busy of a week…

Wilson: {yawning and smacking his lips} Huh, blurp…uh, what’s going on…where am I? I’m up!

Elsa: {rolling her eyes} Dude, you interrupted me. I was laying the foundation for you to open up with this week’s post. You’re awake? Your bedhead looks pretty gnarly, House Pony.

Wilson, bed head

Wilson: Umm, yeah…I haven’t had a chance to brush my hair yet but thought I was hearing you talk to someone. So…is it kosher for me to start now?

Elsa: If you must. Go for it.

Wilson: Well, when you put it like that…this week we are joining our friends…

Elsa: {smacks paw against her forehead} You fool, I already took care of that.

Wilson: Right, okay, then I presume it’s ok to start sharing photos?

Elsa: Yes!! Sheesh, I don’t know why I…ugh…you just can’t get good help. Go already!

Wilson: {shaking off the annoying little sister’s comment} As I was just about to say…it’s been quite the week. You managed to eat more mail again, including Mum’s ballot she just received. You seem to be on a mission to send her over the edge.

Ballot

Elsa: Maybe I was just irritated that she took you on a separate, longer walk after our initial sniff-ari. Besides, did you see it was 6 pages long? Sheesh, Mom’s busy and doesn’t have time to investigate all those citizen initiatives on the ballot. She just wants to make sure her vote for President is counted. The ballot was too long, I was just shortening it for brevity’s sake.

Wilson: We dogs are a smart lot, but Mum said you’ve lost the plot, little sister.

Elsa: Get over yourself. Besides, it was good for Mom to get out and see the world. Even if it’s the construction zone formerly known as downtown. Whoa, what a cluster. If it makes you feel better, I felt bad that she had to endure the crazy trip. She took the bus downtown to avoid the outrageous parking fees on what was a very nice autumn day (we’re hoping autumn temps will now dominate the landscape) but had no idea she was going to have to be plunked in the middle of such a major construction zone and would need to walk about on foot to get to the election board.

Wilson: Well you should feel badly. Without wheels, she was forced to wander hither and yon, back and forth, to get around all the construction on the mall (they’re resurfacing it and there was loads of heavy excavation equipment and workers directly traffic) in order to get over to the election office to obtain a duplicate ballot. She was too cautious to take photos of all that chaos with uneven surfaces, holes and the like and that wasn’t the kind of nature she wanted to share anyway so when she realized she was going to need to walk home, she walked along Cherry Creek which runs parallel to downtown. She discovered the creek was clear, but it was littered with all kinds of trash. That 3+ mile walk home was pretty depressing. Here’s a gallery of some of what she saw.

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Elsa: Whoa…the first couple of pics looked pretty good. The golden light was nice, everyone loves seeing ducks and things seemed all hunky-dory.

Wilson: Right, but the longer she walked, the more depressing and filthy it got. Despite multi-million dollar lofts on the east side of Cherry Creek, there was a lot of trash in the creek. Broken bottles, wrappers and even a chair. Come on humans…do better for our planet. Mum has never seen it like that before.

Elsa: I couldn’t agree more, brother. I see she got a decent shot of Confluence Park where Cherry Creek and the South Platte meet. Surprised there weren’t more people hanging out-it used to always have people playing in the water, kayaking and throwing sticks for their dogs in the past.

Wilson: Why would anyone want to deal with the traffic, construction and trash?

Elsa: I see your point. So now to the portion of our post where you gleefully get to post the latest Halloween scene from around the ‘Hood. I know this will make your bum wiggle with joy.

Wilson: I truly have found this neighborhood really gets into the whole Halloween decorating thing. It’s puzzling to me. This first photo is what is known as Halloween central. People from all over the city come to see this yard which has dozens of skellies including a lot of animal skellies. They change up the scene, usually weekly. Can you imagine dressing up all these guys every week? The latest theme-Olympic, is complete with flags from France (the most recent host to the summer Olympics), USA and even the Olympic flag with the iconic rings. They even went to the trouble of getting placards for the various displayed competition events which included a some gymnastics scenes, judo, swimming, table tennis and wrestling. Everytime we walked past it Mum finds another thing she’s missed before. She stands there in awe some days. People drive or walk by taking photos and shaking their heads in awe. Humans are truly odd.

Dog skellie

Elsa: That’s an understatement. So big guy, anything on your agenda this weekend?

Wilson: Just the usual dog stuff. Chase squirrels, nosh on treats and cuddle with Mum. It’s been quite crisp in the mornings and I have found she appreciates me blanketing her and keeping her nice and toasty.

Elsa: {under her breath} More like being pinned down and unable to move a muscle.

Wilson: Huh, what’s that you say?

Elsa: Oh nothing. Whatever you do, we hope you’re able to enjoy a lovely autumn weekend. Our forecast is calling for snow in the southwestern part of the state with Wolf Creek Pass already getting some yesterday. Naturally Denver remains a brown spot. Sigh.

Weather forecast
Image courtesy of the DenverGazette.com website.

Wilson: Maybe if we’re lucky, we might get a drop or two of rain in the city with a couple of inches of snow in the nearby mountains. Hope springs eternal.

Nature Friday

Live, love, bark! 🐾