Over the weekend I transported a relinquished sheepdog to one of our fosters. He’s a sweet boy and was placed with a seasoned sheepdog owner who’ll help him get over his shyness.
While I was gone, it looks like the spirit of Elsa showed up to keep Wilson company. Even as an angel she shares her presence and legacy. This was new behavior from Wilson and clearly was a paw on my shoulder from my beloved Ninja who wanted me to know she’s thinking of us.
Which leads me to today’s smile which perfectly sums it up. May you savor the theft of your heart. Happy Monday, friends.
Welcome to this week’s edition of Nature Friday where we’re joining our friends from Adventures of the LLB Gang for their weekly blog hop. Wilson here and it’s been an interesting week. Mum tricked me by taking me into taking a ride to the dog wash place but they were closed which meant she had to take me back to the house to endure Chinese water torture treatment (aka a bath). Have I mentioned I. don’t. like. baths. At least at the dog wash I’m restrained and elevated which makes it easier for Mum. At home she has to contend with me trying to escape every 3 seconds and she has to bend over…a lot. Naturally I’m going to turn into a bucking bronco. Good thing Mum is wise to a lot of my usual tricks and was only able to escape just once. I did manage to get her completely soaked and it took her longer to mop up the bathroom than to actually bathe me. Heh, heh. This of course was necessary because this is my week spending time visiting patients, staff and visitors at the hospital. Yesterday was quite busy-I saw nearly 50 people before I even went to our assigned floor. Of course I love all the attention and the treats are pretty doggone good too. Mum keeps telling people I can’t have a lot of treats because I tend to lose focus. I just blink at her like I don’t understand what she’s talking about. It seems to work out nicely if I do say so myself. I managed to make a bunch of new friends and we ended up staying twice as long as usual. I became BFF’s with the security guards in the emergency department and they had me pose for photos for them. I did so many photos with nurses and hospital visitors that I may need to hire an agent.
But enough about me, let’s get to the nature we saw this week, eh?
Wilson: Chrysanthemums are exploding with color around our neighborhood and these red beauties caught my eye. Just look at all those blooms!
The Mum: Those mums are beautiful and can see why they caught your eye. This is definitely the time of year where these flowers truly shine in the glorious golden light of September.
Wilson: You’re right, Mum, the light this month makes even flowers passed their expiration date like this oversized sunflower look good. Mum loved it, even if it’s droopy.
The Mum: You are correct there, House Pony. I think if we’d have received any of the forecasted rain instead of only very loud thunder, it might have been more perky. But I did like it and viewed it from all angles.
Wilson: You’re so weird Mum. I mean when I stop, I at least sniff. You just stand there and look at flowers. That’s so lame. I just don’t understand why looking is enough for humans.
The Mum: Are you kidding me? The magical light this time of year is enough to look in awe and appreciate the light as well as the form.
Wilson: Whatever floats your boat, Mum. So what’s the story behind this zinnia? I heard you squealing about it and when you came inside; you looked proud as punch. Looks like they were splashed with paint.
The Mum: Well I planted this new variety of zinnia seed called Confetti. It’s taken all summer long before any of the ‘confetti’ actually showed up. You can see a couple of pink ones in the background. All the flowers were only solid colors but no confetti so I was somewhat disappointed, even though the few flowers that displayed the confetti part were a lot less exciting than the picture on the seed packet. It was underwhelming by comparison but I’m grateful at least a few finally germinated even if it was somewhat subdued.
Wilson: When we were out walking before our hospital shift began yesterday, we noticed this little vertical garden just down the street. Look at this cute little pumpkin…just hanging there…waiting to be picked. It’s the first time since the owner installed that steel arbor that had something like that grow. Going vertical in a limited space seems brilliant.
The Mum: It was a clever use of the narrow ‘hell space’ that rarely gets used effectively. And a plus is there’s no misshapen form from the bottom from laying on the ground. Win-win.
Wilson: Nice, Mum. A couple doors down the street we found this youngish Ginkgo tree. The city has begun including them in the inventory of trees used to replace the troublesome silver maple trees as a different option for city landscapes. Ginkgos are large shade trees that are resistant to wind and snow damage. They have a distinct and unique fan-shaped leaf but are a slow growing tree that requires at least 6 hours of full sunlight and well watered and well drained sites. Native to eastern Asia, they are like living fossils as they’ve been around for 290 million years.
The Mum: I find these trees quite fascinating with those interestingly shaped leaves. This one is slowly starting to turn golden. It seems like the changing colors of leaves is a bit slow this year, at least in the city. Oh sure there are some spots showing up in the tree canopy but nothing really suggesting that autumn will officially arrive next week. It’s been a strange prelude to this magical time of year. In fact, I was surprised to see this Stella de Oro daylily blooming. It’s often called the perfect perennial because of its many wonderful qualities (beautiful flowers, drought tolerance and the ability able to withstand heat stress, and its low care requirements). It maybe a miniature daylily but it packs a big punch in a city landscape.
Wilson: While it attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, it is quite toxic for cats so be careful if you plant it in your yard and you have a kitty that likes to stroll through the garden looking for mousies.
The Mum: That’s interesting-I did not know that about its toxicity to cats.
Wilson: Well that’s it for this week, Mum. We hope everyone has a great weekend and are able to get outdoors to experience this fabulous time of year.
Greetings mates. Wilson here ready to share bits and bobs of nature that we encountered this week. As always, I’m joining the blog hop hosted by the Adventures of the LLB Gang’s. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what great posts and pics were shared throughout Blogville.
Not to set off an alarm, but I realized there are only 111 days left in 2025. That means there are just 104 days until Santa Paws arrives. Yikes, I don’t know how you feel about that, but I know it’s got me and Mum starting to panic. But let’s focus on how beautiful nature has been this week.
Wilson: While the temps have been warm, they haven’t been too hot (unless you were standing in the sun for any length of time). Warms days, coolish nights…the perfect weather for ripening all those little tomatoes. Mum picks one or two every time she goes outside. Our street was all in a dither last week when a baby squirrel apparently fell out of the large maple across the street. Poor little thing-just a wee baby. It wasn’t doing so great and even my squirrel despising Mum went to help a group of compassionate neighbors rescue it and its sibling. She was told there were three babies, but she never saw the other one and their mum seemed to be MIA. We heard the shrill call of a hawk on Sunday and decided that it was likely responsible for this guy falling trying to avoid becoming an entree and he fell. We managed to coax the other baby down the tree and we put them both in a little box for a young couple who took pity and insisted on taking them up to a wild animal rescue in Boulder. We all agreed they were pretty young. This little guy was pretty week and likely dehydrated. We left some water out and he at least opened his eyes after licking some from where he stumbled and spilled the containers. Another neighbor even put out some bread bits but he wouldn’t eat. I was thinking he was too young and most likely hadn’t been weaned yet to survive. As you all know I’m no fan of these little varmints but felt badly for the baby.
Wilson named him little Sherman
The Mum: I was surprised at all the attention those two little guys received from people in the neighbor. Most of the time they hardly ever look up from their cell phones but were very engaged on saving these babies. It almost restores my doubts about humans especially given the news this week. Not only was Charlie Kirk assassinated, there was a mass shooting at nearby Evergreen High School, the shooter shot a couple of classmates and turned the gun on himself. Many students were injured in the melee trying to escape. This world is becoming a crazy place.
Wilson: We were out walking around and came across this pretty dragonfly on the sidewalk. Turns out it was an adult female common whitetail dragonfly most likely hunting for mosquitos, their main food source. Mum had never seen one before and was fascinated with her appearance. The male’s abdomen is all white, while the females have those white dots running along her sides.
The Mum: We love any insects that hunt mosquitoes.
Wilson: Right-o, Mum. So I wonder who or what left this web all over these leaves? The water droplets really highlighted the web after you watered the garden.
The Mum: It sure was quite the sparkly view and caught my eye.
Wilson: You sure have been keeping your eyes open for spiders this summer. It seems like there’s been more than usual. But because they help control some nasty insects, we don’t mind them so much. Hey, how about this pretty Sweet Autumn Clematis vine? Native to northeastern Asia, this lovely plant is part of the buttercup family and was introduced into the United States in the late 1800s as an ornamental garden plant,. It’s naturalized in many of the eastern states and is considered an invasive plant in north and central Florida as well as some other eastern states. It had a delicate scent to it
The Mum: At first I thought it might be jasmine but the scent was barely perceptible so I figured it had to be something else. It sure was pretty though.
Wilson: Indeed it was, Mum. That was a good walk but nothing like the one we took after our meeting at the hospital this week. You took me to an open space area not too far from the hospital and we got to walk along the trail. I even got to see some riders with their horses. This pointing pose says it all but it was nice walking along the little stream on such a beautiful day.
Halt…who goes there?!
The Mum: I noticed you made no attempt to check out the water.
Wilson: I presume that was just a rhetorical observation. You know perfectly well that I’m not a water dog.
The Mum: {chortling} Yeah, I’ve figured that out. But you should try it sometime. It’s not like a bath. Besides, who knows, you might find a fish or a frog…also known as interactive toys.
Wilson: Also for the record, I don’t do toys, Mum.
The Mum: Lighten up laddie. I do know that…you need to unclench, ‘kay?
Wilson: Well, I just wanted to make it perfectly clear. So what did you think about the reblooming irises we saw outside the hospital before our meeting? I thought you said you had some but I don’t recall them reblooming…come to think of it, did they bloom in the spring?
The Mum: I think they did, but you’re right they didn’t rebloom. The one’s at Lutheran were pretty and just like ours. They caught me off guard. I do love me some irises and the fact that these rebloomers makes them such a lovely addition to any garden.
Wilson: They were indeed pretty but I got to admit, I was more excited to see another garden goose dressed up. This must be a ‘thing’ because it’s the second one we’ve seen recently. They’re so funny and make me tilt my head.
The Mum: You’re right House Pony…they are funny. I love gardeners with a sense of humor. Naturally, I’ll be on the alert to see more of these quirky garden art pieces.
Wilson: Whatever makes you happy, Mum. I can tell we’re getting closer to autumn and I didn’t even have to check a calendar. Apart from more spots of gold in tree tops, I noticed the strawberry plant is changing colors. Just look at those reddening leaves!
The Mum: That is another good sign. Ten days and counting so color us happy. Looks like that’s it for this week. Both of us hope you have a fantabulously awesome weekend and are able to get outside to see how nature is morphing into autumn.
Wilson: Woof! That means ‘yes’ in dog. Have a great weekend.
Watching Nature on the telly-those seem like fairly large dogs
Hello mates and welcome to the first Nature Friday post of September. Wilson here to share what I’m seeing in Nature this week. As always, I’m joining those two cute pups from the Adventures of the LLB Gang’sblog hop. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what great posts and pics were shared throughout Blogville.
This week’s temps were warmer than last week’s, but not horrible. Days are warm, nights are crisp and we have a diverse offering for today’s post.
It’s was a crazy week made crazier by Mum. She has been scurrying around swabbing decks and other stuff that probably should have been done in spring and it’s causing me some major heartburn. She keeps saying everything is going to be fine, but seriously, who trusts someone with wielding a mop or pushing a vacuum around. OMD…a dog cannot relax in this kind of environment. I move from one place to another to avoid that noisy soul sucking machine and it’s like she’s stalking me with that vacuum wand. Anyway, please be patient with us as we’ve not had a lot of online time visiting blogs but hope to get reasonably caught up soon. But if anything goes wrong or if you don’t hear from us, be sure to assign blame on her because I’m never at fault…only fabulous. Despite what she may imply with her snide comments about paw prints on the floors and nose art on the front door.
So like I said earlier, it has been a little warmer this week but not overly unpleasant. I have my paws crossed this is summer’s last hurrah and that she’s ready to move aside for our favorite season, autumn, which officially arrives in two weeks and three days, but who’s counting and we’re beginning to notice subtle signs that a new script is in the works. Just take a look at some of a couple of indicators that things are in flux.
This tree is from down the street. Those spots of gold make for a nice contrast with the green leaves, wouldn’t you agree?
While not near as vivid, this Honey Locust is across the street from our house, and we’re seeing little spots of yellow appearing in the upper canopy.
Another sure fire sign that the seasons are beginning to change are oaks trees with their little nuts, i.e. acorns. I’ve always dreamed of noshing on them and just a couple of weeks ago, that tree was covered with them and there were gobs of them on the ground. This week, there were only a couple left on the tree and nothing on the ground. No doubt the hoodlum neighborhood squirrels stocked up before I had a chance to snack on them. Interesting side note…I found out acorns provide food for birds, rodents, beers, even deer, so I ask, why not a Floof? You know, just as a quality control thing. Plus they make some lovely craft items, if one is interested in that sort of thing. I know Mum has collected them in the past for making wreaths and holiday ornaments.
The Mum: Good morning, laddie, how’s it…
Wilson: {interrupting} Oh hiya, finally decided to join us, did you?
The Mum: Well I was trying to find something I misplaced…sorry I’m late. But I see you managed without my help.
Wilson: I can’t believe anything around here is misplaced. You’ve been on a crusade to put things where they belong or even purging it. Did you find what you were looking for yet?
The Mum: No, not yet, but I’m sure it’s gotta be around and I’ll continue to hunt.
Wilson: Just don’t hunt with the vacuum, okay, Mum? That thing scares the devil out of me, not that there’s any devil in me, but you know. That’s just an expression, mind you. I don’t have to remind you that I’m totally fabulous and a very good boy.
The Mum: Yes, you’re a good boy though I’ve notice a certain stubborn streak emerging of late that…
Wilson: {interrupting} GASP!! I am not stubborn, I’m just strongly devoted to keep doing what I’ve been doing. Besides, my clock is on a different wavelength from your artificial time table.
The Mum: Oh, different wavelength, is that what it is? That’s one way of describing it.
Wilson: Oh I’ll admit, I was nice and comfy on the patio a few times watching the world go by while you were in gardening mode and I was merely not ready to come back in the house.
The Mum: I’ve learned it’s not a good idea leaving you to your own devices. While I was trimming the iris leaves, I noticed you ran across the street to give a certain squirrel the what for. Remember? We had a long talk about that.
Wilson: Talk? Harumph…you put me in time out inside the house as I recall.
The Mum: Well you know the saying, if you do the crime, you have to do the time.
Wilson: {ignoring the squirrel transgression} Umm, not to change the subject, but I noticed last week’s showers and this week’s warmer temps sure made for some pretty flowers. I mean, just look at this pretty Morning Glory. Is that some gorgeous color or what?
The Mum: Indeed, nature knows how to showcase its own.
Wilson: Another sign that autumn is upon us is the annual ritual of people planting Chrysanthemums. This cheery yellow one caught my eye. They’re pretty but they don’t smell as great as they look.
The Mum: Yup, you know when mums are planted, autumn can’t be too far away. Being scented isn’t the only reason to plant pretty things in the garden.
Wilson: Yeah, but my own preference is to have both a great scent and pretty blooms. Nothing wrong with that, is there?
The Mum: No, I totally understand. But mums are one of those autumn plants that seem to want to look better than they smell and that’s okay too.
Wilson: Says the person with about a third as many olfactory cells than most dogs have. Suit yourself.
The Mum: Right…what else do you have? Did you see any critters this week?
Wilson: As a matter of fact, I did encounter a crawly thing with huge eyeballs that seemed to be taking in all sorts of scenery. I do know he kinda startled you but then once you overcame the surprise, seemed transfixed by his eyes and the tiny little hairs on all his legs. Didn’t you say you thought that was a harmless wolf spider?
The Mum: Yes, I think that’s what it was. I’ve seen several of them hanging out this summer. The early wet conditions seemed to activate the arachnid population around the garden. I’ve been pulling webs off the water spigot and around the base of pots on a twice-a-week basis. They’re great for keeping harmful insects at bay and are not dangerous. I read that they have 8 eyes but the two prominents ones were the ones I was mesmerized most by them. It was pretty cool. So what else do you have to share today?
Wilson: I noticed a Sorbus tree, known as a mountain-ash in North America and a rowan in the UK. An ornamental, smallish tree is in full berry mode which will keep a lot of birds fed this winter.
The Mum: When my kids were very small, they planted one for me one Mother’s Day and it was a favorite addition. I’ve often wondered how that little guy has fared.
Wilson: Well that’s it for this week. We hope everyone has a great weekend and are able to get out and enjoy nature first hand. Enjoy!
Well, well, well…here we are again on a Friday and it’s been a lovely (if not extremely hectic) week with fabulous weather with lower temps. I daresay it’s been downright wonderful, with small showers nearly every afternoon or evening this week.Yay! In fact most of our photos for today have raindrops on them. No matter, neither Mum or I melted and were grateful for the moisture. We have been thrilled that the temps were in the low 70’sF (21C). At least the sun stopped being stuck on broil but figure summer will no doubt return but at least we were granted a few days respite. In the meantime, we’re gonna enjoy it while the getting is good. And as always, we’re joining our friends from the Adventures of the LLB Gang’s blog hop. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what great posts and pics were shared throughout Blogville.
Wilson: This week we’re doing a Farmer’s Market kind of nature thing since our veggie garden is in full harvest swing. Mum always plants a couple of tomato plants and this year they’ve been doing quite nicely. Just look at those little red beauties.
The Mum: I had some reservations about those tomatoes at first, as they weren’t the usual variety I normally plant but with all the hot days and ‘coolish’ nights, they are ripening quicker than I can eat them. And they are quite tasty, if I do say so myself.
Wilson: Harumph…well it’s certainly not like I got a chance to nosh on any. How come you don’t let me be quality control, eh, Mum?
The Mum: Hmm, not sure why I haven’t offered any to you. I have given you multiple strawberries and you seem to have enjoyed them.
Wilson: Good thing you took a photo of those berries when you did because they were gone the next morning. Seems as though some little critter ate my berry!
The Mum: Now, now…it wasn’t your berry per se but I share your disappointment as I was hoping for a fresh strawberry snack myself that morning with breakfast.
Wilson: Excuse me, you at least have thumbs to obtain snacks. Pardon me if I’m not very sympathetic.
The Mum: My goodness…stop waxing on about a single little strawberry. What else have you got?
Wilson: After enduring such a huge gastric loss, I guess I can share a bit of exciting news about your fig plant who continues to do extremely well. I think I need to host a naming content for this little guy. Every sports team in the country bids out their stadium/arena to corporate interests so I’m officially accepting name suggestions. Best treat…err most popular name wins. This guy is doing so well I can’t just keep calling him ‘the fig’ any longer. He’s nearly fully ripened. We must fill this opportunity and name this dude. And the good news is it won’t cost you a shilling. So leave your name suggestions in your comment.
And at last count, there are about a dozen little nubs waiting to join this ripening bad boy in my belly!
The Mum: I’m not sure you’ll be getting a fig, but I might be persuaded to share a tiny taste with you. How’s that sound?
Wilson: Sheesh, Mum, you’re getting pretty stingy in your old age. I thought Farmer’s Markets were supposed to be more community minded, as in sharing all the harvest.
The Mum: {purposely ignoring the snark} Speaking of community minded as in sharing…look at this basket of nectarines shared by a nearby neighbor who placed it on the sidewalk with a note to enjoy their bounty. How sweet was that?
Wilson: Very sweet indeed. As well as generous. I note the sharing aspect of that neighbor, maybe you should be willing to share some of your figs with a certain floof. Just saying.
The Mum: Let it go, House Pony. On another neighbor’s yard, I’ve noticed that garden that we walk past every day on our walks. Their front yard is covered with a Little House of Horrors style vine that’s spreading all over the place. And this guy is starting to get big. He’s going to make a lovely Jack-o-Lantern.
Wilson: What a lovely shade of orange. I guess this neighbor is preparing for the whole pumpkin spice season which was launched this week.
The Mum: I heard that Starbuck news. What can I say? I’m sure corporate America will figure out interesting ways to jump on the bandwagon, creating heaven only knows what kind of food, drink, snack or candle fragrance.
Wilson: I’m good with plain ole pumpkin myself actually. For our final photo, we offer a beautiful rose especially for our friend, Rosy. Mum took this pic shortly after an early morning shower a couple of days ago and oohed and awed all the way home about it. Yes, it’s pretty, but I was more interested in what’s for breakfast. We wish you all a very wonderful weekend. Our family is going to have a family reunion with all 5 generations attending to celebrate Mum’s dad’s 95th birthday. I know there’ll be lots of treats there. This year they are doing a Mexican food with margaritas theme to celebrate with him. Ole! Please pass the tacos and don’t forget to have a wonderful and safe Labor Day weekend. Finally, may your college football team have a splendid season opener.
Hello mates, we’re back even though we’re not quite 100% caught up from last week’s busy schedule. Mum thought this week would be great but we had an emergency situation with the sheepdog rescue that required her and others to jump into action to try to save a 4-month old puppy who was at a shelter. That old saying “it takes a village” was never more true as a handful of volunteers from up and down the Front Range sprang into action to save the pup named Herman. As he settles into one of our star foster homes over the next few days (this is sheepdog #317 he’s managed to help find a new home over the years and is the same guy who fostered the beloved Norman), I’ll try to provide updates on his status. But today, we’re all about some Nature. Finally, even if it’s somewhat slim.
You may recall that we missed last week’s blog hop. Mum and I were just too exhausted after loads of visits at Lutheran and while Mum is still a bit spent from yesterday’s sudden mad dash, we’re joining our friends from the Adventures of the LLB Gang’s blog hop. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what great posts and pics were shared in Blogville.
So during one of Mum’s many trips doing the things mums do, while she was at a stoplight she noticed this decorated utility box. She chuckled out loud that someone had artfully painted the normally ugly boxes. It’s good to see that some people can dress up less than pretty things we’ve come to accept as part of modern living. She only wished they’d have signed their work of art.
The Mum: ‘Morning lad, yes, I really did like the dressing up of an otherwise ugly utility box. If you can’t bury it, I say decorate it!
Wilson: Hmmm, we dogs usually say if you can’t bury it, pee on it but to each his own, eh? It is quite the artistic expression but not nearly as lovely as what Mother Nature doles out with a flick of her wrist. Take for example this Queen Anne’s Lace. Normally thought of as a common weed, it fits so nicely near the water wheel when it slowly rotated with water but was taken out of commission late last year. We walk past this garden daily and while it’s sad the water wheel no longer is operational, it was nice to see plants filing in around it. This common plant botanically known as Daucus Carota, is also called wild carrot. The leaves are finely divided and lacy with leaves between 5–15 cm (2–6 in) long, that alternate in a feather like pattern that separate into thin segments. The flowers are small, dull white, and clustered into flat, dense umbels (flower clusters that resembles an umbrella). They often are pink when in bud and may even have a pink, reddish or purple flower known as the “ruby” in its center, once fully opened. As seeds develop, the umbel curls up around the edges and develops a concave surface. With rough hairy, stiff stems, Daucus Carota is readily distinguished by a mix of the feather like leaves on solid green stems with roots that smell of carrots and often have a single red flower in the center which blooms to attract insects. Did you know that it looks very similar to poison hemlock but differs in having purple mottling on its stems. As you can imagine my Mum won’t let me stick my snooter anywhere near that plant but it is pretty with that wooden wheel in the frame.
The Mum: I really do miss the soft gentle sound of water pouring on each subsequent arm of the wheel as it rotated, but glad they didn’t remove it altogether. The wood has such beautiful texture and the Queen Anne’s Lace looks pretty around it. I’m sure those seeds on that wooden plank provide food for birds and insects.
Wilson: Food…oh my gosh, where!?!
The Mum: Relax House Pony. Sheesh, I definitely should have named you Hoover.
Wilson: But Mum, I’m a hungry boy who works hard and thus needs lots of nourishment.
The Mum: Care to explain the need for the “power naps?”
Wilson: It’s a well-documented fact that sleep is critical to maintaining good health.
The Mum: Uh-huh. Still not every crumb, seed or piece of lint you find is good nutrition.
Wilson: I’m going to ignore that last statement only because I have some pretty photos to share. I’m sure our readers will side with me on the need to eliminate things found on the ground.
The Mum: I don’t know, I’m sure they probably would prefer you to be svelte with a well-defined waistline where excess pounds don’t weigh down your joints.
Wilson: {grumbling} Just a word of advice to all you good readers…don’t try to out-logic mums but guess they know a thing or two about what’s good for their fur-kids.
The Mum: {smiling} I only have your best interests at heart. You may think all three of your stomachs need to be filled but that’s not quite accurate. What else do you have, nature wise?
Wilson: Ah yes, Well I found that fabulous hibiscus. Just look at that gorgeous bright color that looks amazing against a bluebird Colorado sky.
The Mum: It truly was gorgeous and the blooms were over-sized. The flowers nicely contraste with the dark green leaves.
Wilson: It’s a favorite of mine too. So pretty. But I found some nearly as pretty coneflowers near the same spot as that Hibiscus. Known as Echinacea, it is part of the daisy family and has a long history of use in traditional medicine by Indigenous peoples for treating infections, pain, and wounds, and has now gained popularity as a herbal remedy, especially for cold symptoms. Once early European settlers noticed indigenous people used it successfully, they began to develop their own uses. Modern use began after a Swiss herbal supplement maker was told that Echinacea could be used as a cold prevention remedy by Native American tribes who lived in the area of South Dakota.
The Mum: It’s such a cheerful looking plant and yes, I often add Echinacea if I’m starting to experience the sniffles and sometimes it works well to reduce symptoms or even eliminate them completely. I’d much rather use something that is plant based than something like an over the counter remedy like Sudafed which practically takes an act of God to obtain it from behind pharmacy counters any more due to it being a component in the production of methamphetamines.
Wilson: Plant based is probably better for you, Mum. I personally have never sick goat and they eat plants all the time. Have you?
The Mum: {winking} Ahh yes, I’m sure that’s it.
Wilson: Hey, I’m not just a pretty face. And speaking of pretty, how about this gorgeous geranium.
The Mum: It’s a beauty for sure. We don’t generally see two-toned geraniums like that one and I just had to take a photo of it.
Wilson: It’s just lovely Mum. And for anyone like us who might be jonesing for a visible sign that autumn is just 31 days away, I share this tiny little sliver of hope that perhaps heralds the end of this summer of hell soon. Cheers for a great weekend and remember to try and get out to see what Nature has shared with you.
Welcome to this week’s edition of Nature Friday where we join our friends from the Adventures of the LLB Gang’s blog hop. Don’t forget to click on the link to see what great posts and pics were shared in Blogville.
This week we’re taking a different approach to our post since Mum and I are sick of whinging about the relentless heat. You’re welcome. I told her, I’m done with it and we should focus on something lovely that Nature is providing instead. Instead we’re going to yammer on about the August full moon which is called a red “Sturgeon Moon,” said moon due to arrive tomorrow. So what is a red Sturgeon Moon, you ask?
Wilson: Aren’t you glad I’m here to explain it. Just call me your favorite science floof. The best explanation goes something like this: The same atmospheric conditions that provide those vibrant sunrises and sunsets are the same conditions that makes the Sturgeon Moon red. Since the moon is low on the horizon, its light passes through a thicker layer of the Earth’s atmosphere, which scatters shorter wavelengths and allows longer red and orange wavelengths to impact the moon’s appearance, providing its reddish hue. This particular full moon will likely be extra red here due to smoke from various wildfires throughout the state. That smoke has impacting our air quality all week long. The full moon phase generally lasts for about three days, and begins tomorrow with this month’s full moon arriving at 3:55 a.m. ET on Saturday. It will be full on both the 9th and the 10th. Some geographic areas will refer to it as the “Corn Moon” or “Harvest Moon” which coincides with ripening corn and the start of the harvest season. Mum always calls those big red full moons a harvest moon.
The Mum: Well, look at you Mr. Science Dude. Nicely explained. Sadly none of the moon pics I have do the term justice. I understand a Sturgeon Moon is especially important for indigenous peoples as it reminds them of the interconnectedness between nature and their communities.
Wilson: That’s right, Mum. Anyway, we could try to capture a photo this weekend.
The Mum: I’ll definitely give it my best shot, House Pony. I understand you have a few photos of flowers that are coming into their own right now. Why don’t you show us what else you’ve got.
Wilson: Ooh, I’m so glad you segued to the flowers we captured this week because are there some real beauties. Check out these Gladiolus.
The Mum: I never think about planting these bulb standouts…until they start blooming and then I tell myself…next year.
Wilson: No worries, Mum. Some good neighbors seem more than willing to step in and share their beauties. Those same neighbors had some lovely dahlias, too! This one is practically iridescent on the outer edges.
The Mum: Yes, they were truly gorgeous. It’s not likely I’ll ever plant any Dahlias because I’m too lazy to dig them up, wash the tubers and then store them in the garage. And even if I did go to that effort, I’d probably forget them the following spring. Things tend to be forgotten in the depths of the nooks and crannies in the garage. I’m still looking for a 5/8″ crescent wrench that I know I have but just can’t seem to find. Every other size is right where they are supposed to be, but the 5/8 inch one is MIA. Sigh.
Wilson: Ahh, so that’s what you were doing the other day. I think I heard some grumbling about a lost tool. You know if it’s even remotely near a treat, I could find it. Just saying if you want some help, my sniffer is pretty good when it comes to finding things if treats are involved.
The Mum: I’m sure you could, buddy. You do tend to be helpful like that. {changing the subject} So what else do you have?
Wilson: Well I came across some sunburned flowers that sure were pretty.
The Mum: Sunburned? Oh Wilson lad, you crack me up.
Wilson: Well that first one seemed like nature put a low SPF sunscreen on the flowers because it’s not too burnt, but the second one is well beyond the bronze stage, in my humble opinion.
The Mum: Hahahaha. Well I ‘ll give you an “A” for your interesting observation. Sunflowers actually can come in a variety of colors (i.e. yellow, shades of orange and red, white and even green) although most of them found in our neighborhood are the bright yellow variety.
Wilson: You mean they aren’t sunburned? Hmm…guess I have a bit to learn about flowers. Well, the one thing that we can both agree on is that they are rather lovely. And the birds sure like them.
The Mum: Oh yes, birds are pretty crazy about sunflowers, no matter what color they are.
Wilson: Well that’s it from me. We had a visitor to the front garden but he didn’t want to stay for long. Mum said she hasn’t seen many of them and spent a lot of time trying to get close enough to actually be able to see him. A beautiful Monarch butterfly! He was enjoying the nectar from the blue flowers of the plumbago. Isn’t he grand? I named him Felix and hope he comes back.
Mum, Felix and I hope you have a terrific weekend and are able to get out and check all the wonderful gifts Mother Nature provides us, like this month’s full moon and garden visitors. Cheerio mates!
We don’t generally post on Tuesday but today is one that really applies to Wilson which is why we’re joining our friends at The Cat Blogosphere for “Work Like A Dog Day” today. This celebration is held every August 5th. Drop by their monthly calendar for all manner of cool celebrations and announcements.
While this is strictly an unofficial holiday, we think it’s important to celebrate all the hard work that working dogs like herding dogs, hunting dogs, rescue, service and in our personal case, therapy dogs who work hard, providing help and cheer for their humans. Please notice that the House Pony takes his daily contributions quite seriously.
We managed to make it to another Friday and we’ve lots to show you from a recent trip to Boulder, where Mom’s son lives. He had shoulder surgery and needed a caretaker to help him out while his partner was out of town. Well, color me happy…a road trip AND a visit to one of my favorite peeps. Wilson here to share photos from our time in Boulder with Mum. As always, we’re joining our friends from the Adventures of the LLB Gang. Be sure to click on the link to see what else was shared in this week’s Nature Friday blog hop.
My first walk around the North Boulder neighborhood took me up to the base of Mount Sanitas. It was a lovely morning looking in either direction at sunrise. But getting up there was where the real fun was. I got to see scads of bunnies. Oh my dog…they are EVERYWHERE. The neighborhood hardly had any squirrels, which was very disappointing. I wished for lots of squirrels at our neighborhood wishing well before we left. Once again, they spray painted the dried allium blooms vibrant color. Whoever grants the wishes must have been on vacation because I only got to see two squirrels in Boulder. I felt somewhat swindled but know my chances are loads better near our house.
Walking up toward Mount Sanitas, the clouds were busy dotting the sky. What an incredible view-both looking up as well as looking down toward town.
At 6,863 feet (2,092 meters), Mum was a tad winded since the climb is kinda of steep. One trailhead is just a mile from the downtown district where college students and tourists congregate in the many restaurants, pubs and other fascinating hang-outs.
One of the neighbors prepares fresh baked goods that she sells at a tiny pittance of their value especially in this toney part of town where million dollar plus homes are the norm. At the edge of the street near her driveway, she has the equivalent of a ‘lending library’ for dogs. Mum was touched by this sweet tribute, its message of love and sharing. When she showed that pic to her son, he told her that’s the lady who bakes and sells her treats to people from all over the area! They had a good laugh about that but I missed the joke. And come to think of it, the scones were missing too. Hmm, this a second gyp on this trip not that anyone is particularly keeping score, mind you…but…
The Mum: {interrupting} Wilson, sweet boy, you know perfectly well that baked goods aren’t for dogs and besides, I gave you lots of dehydrated liver treats on your walks. There’s no reason to feel gypped, House Pony.
Wilson: I’m not so sure about that Mum, you should know it’s particularly problematic when I hear my tummy gurgling…
The Mum: {interrupting again} Your stomach is always growling. I swear you must have either hollow legs or 7 stomachs!
Wilson: And that’s a problem because?
The Mum: {ignoring the question by changing the subject} So what else did you see on your walks?
Wilson: Around the corner from the box of tennis balls, we found a beautiful Japanese garden, complete with a really nice statute of the Buddha.
The Mum: It was a very serene walk highlighted by this statute and garden. It was the first of of some noteworthy garden artwork we passed. Do you remember this mailbox and donkey?
Wilson: No…erm neighhhhhhh {dog snicker}.
The Mum: Oh my…was that your attempt to deliver a Dad joke? I wouldn’t give up your day job.
Wilson: Harrumph. That was kind of harsh. Perhaps I shouldn’t be so compliant near busy intersections by poing so nicely for you, Mum? What do you think of that?
The Mum: Errr, let’s not get hasty now. You wouldn’t want to endanger yourself, especially at busy intersections, now would you?
Wilson: Good point. I’d probably lose my floofy head and run out into traffic in a panic. Doggone it…score one for Mum logic.
The Mum: It’s not about scoring anything, I just want you to stay safe sweet boy. What else do you have for us today?
Wilson: Well, I know you enjoyed these strange ‘flowers’ at the first dinner your son fixed. You said these steamed artichokes were quite tasty. I, on the other hand with my incredible floofy discernment, favored the salmon skins that were barbequed and served with them. Yum, yum…I think you need to start buying a package of those salmon filets soon. Just saying.
The Mum: My son is an amazing cook (and gardener) and we work well together with 3 hands making dinner on a lovely evening on the patio deck. Artichokes, salmon and a nice salad made for a tasty meal. The appetizers were equally tasty. I am going to hunt from some of that lemoned beet hummus. It was soooo tasty.
Wilson: Well my favorite part of our 3 days in Boulder (other than being with your son) came on the last day. I made friends with some very strange looking dogs. But we all were polite and they mosied on down the street, undisturbed by me. Not sure if the neighbor’s dog felt the same since he was barking up a storm but no one can say I was a nuisance while visiting that ‘Hood.
The Mum: At first I thought they were garden statutory and then the two babies kissed each other and then began nursing on mama. I’d never seen young fawns in person so it was a real treat for me as well. Mama seemed a tad nervous and said, “enough breakfast, let’s go, you little hooligans.” They were just a couple doors away from my son’s house and when I mentioned them to him he was not quite as excited about their visit as I was. They apparently scale fences and nosh on the fruit trees, elderberry bushes and planted veggies. Luckily the resident dog, Junie, is ‘Johnny on the spot’ keeping them at bay but folks generally aren’t glad they come around.
Wilson: Umm, Mum…wouldn’t that be Junie on the spot? Not that I’m overly picky, but…
The Mum: Oh Fine. Junie on the spot then. There…are you happy now?
Wilson: Happy as a clam at high tide, Mum. We’ll leave you with our best wishes to have a terrific weekend and hope you get out and enjoy some beauty around your neck of the woods.
As John Oliver says…welcome, welcome, welcome. Wilson here ready to share slices of nature as I join our pals from the Adventures of the LLB Gang‘s blog hop. Make sure you check the link out to see what great posts and pics are shared. Now let’s get on to some of what we encountered this week but first I want to extend best birthday wishes to sweet Rosy who turns 8 this weekend and Chia who continues celebrating her birthday month. Happy Birthday, girls. I’ll be turning the ole Lucky 7 on Sunday so let the good times roll. Let’s paw-!
It’s been hot, but some of the summer flowers are loving it. Check out these two pics of a particularly vigorous trumpet vine we walk past all the time.
As you can see it was a bright sunny day (which made it hotter). Hallelujah, eh Mum? So have you recovered from blowing up those balloons yesterday?
The Mum: Oh lord, talk about a lung workout. They are meant to be blown up by hand using a special straw and not to be used with helium. Talk about being gassed! At any rate, I thought they would provide a nice celebratory vibe for your birthday weekend.
Wilson: 2025 is sure whizzing by us. For those of you who need something to look forward to, there are 66 days until autumn officially arrives. While I know it’s never good wishing your life away, we’ve been checking days off on the calendar. In addition to these trumpet vines blooming their little heads off, daylilies are front and center around NW Denver gardens. Just look at these beauties.
The Mum: Whoa…those are gorgeous. You can never go wrong having lilies in your garden.
Wilson: Right you are on that, Mum. They are real showstoppers in a summer garden if you’re not into pots of annuals for summer color. I’ve been noticed Hollyhocks are blooming nicely too. Check this bright pink one out!
The Mum: They are quite lovely, House Pony. Nice find.
Wilson: If you like those Hollyhocks, you’re gonna love the ever popular sunflowers that are having a go in summer gardens all over our neighborhood. They look especially stunning against a crystal blue sky. And I like that you managed to capture a happy bee flying from one flower to another.
The Mum: Thanks, buddy. Glad you liked it. Neighborhood birds are enjoy the sunflowers too as are your arch nemesis, the ever opportunistic furry critters you despise…squirrels.
Wilson: SQUIRRELS!! Where? Let. Me. AT. THEM! I’ll make sure they don’t take seeds away from birds!
The Mum: Easy Hoss, just relax. I’m sure there’s plenty to go around…
Wilson: {interrupting} There’s never enough when it comes to squirrels, they’ll eat anything they can get their grubby little paws on…you of all people should realize that.
The Mum: I’m so tired of fighting them, and I’m hopeful the electronic anti-squirrel device I recently ordered keep them at bay. I mean just look at the newest bloom on the everbearing strawberry plant. That little guy needs far more protection than a bunch of sunflowers that are quite abundant.
Wilson: So you’re saying to choose my battles wisely? That’s probably good advice across the board. I’ll try to keep that in mind, but if I find them in my garden, mark my words…they will not go unchallenged.
The Mum: {rolling her eyes} Whatever-you know how I feel about the whole think. So long as neither of us get hurt by you launching me into space on our walks like a kite. Deal?
Wilson: Hmmm, I think I’m good with that but may backslide on occasion. Just wanted to know when it comes to squirrels, it’s literally a moving target. Full disclosure and all that.
The Mum: Fine, I’ll take my chances and hope for the best. So what else do you have?
Wilson: Well I notice this gigantic stalk coming from an agave plant on yesterday’s walk and was blown away by how tall it was. I’ve never seen one that tall before! It reminded me of a palm tree.
The Mum: It really was something to behold. I’d never seen one that tall either and just had to take it’s pic and it obliged nicely. It looked especially regal with that blue sky.
Wilson: And lastly we have a few photos from our immediate garden. The first tomatoes ripened and they were mighty tasty. Your fig plant is doing nicely too and the two little figs seem to be doing well. The plant in general has put on a bunch of new leaves and it looks very healthy overall. It will be fun watching those babies ripen.
The Mum: Yes, I’m very jazzed about them and hope they continue to do well. Well that about wraps it up for us. We hope you’re able to experience some of nature’s many gifts firsthand. Have a great weekend-stay cool. We plan to do lots of celebrating for Wilson’s birthday.
Welcome to this week’s edition of Nature Friday where we’re joining our friends from 
Greetings mates. Wilson here ready to share bits and bobs of nature that we encountered this week. As always, I’m joining the blog hop hosted by the 
The Mum: I had some reservations about those tomatoes at first, as they weren’t the usual variety I normally plant but with all the hot days and ‘coolish’ nights, they are ripening quicker than I can eat them. And they are quite tasty, if I do say so myself.
Hello mates, we’re back even though we’re not quite 100% caught up from last week’s busy schedule. Mum thought this week would be great but we had an emergency situation with the sheepdog rescue that required her and others to jump into action to try to save a 4-month old puppy who was at a shelter. That old saying “it takes a village” was never more true as a handful of volunteers from up and down the Front Range sprang into action to save the pup named Herman. As he settles into one of our star foster homes over the next few days (this is sheepdog #317 he’s managed to help find a new home over the years and is the same guy who fostered the beloved Norman), I’ll try to provide updates on his status. But today, we’re all about some Nature. Finally, even if it’s somewhat slim.
Mum, Felix and I hope you have a terrific weekend and are able to get out and check all the wonderful gifts Mother Nature provides us, like this month’s full moon and garden visitors. Cheerio mates!
Walking up toward Mount Sanitas, the clouds were busy dotting the sky. What an incredible view-both looking up as well as looking down toward town.
As John Oliver says…welcome, welcome, welcome. Wilson here ready to share slices of nature as I join our pals from the 
