Adventures about pet therapy, dog rescue and urban life in the 'Burbs
It’s Monday again…where did the weekend go? Wilson has been entertaining himself by making friends with various bugs who are making their last hurrah before summer finally hits the road. They have at least the next 10 days of friendship, according to the forecast.
We hope you have loads of friendly encounters this week. Happy Monday.
Live, love, bark! 🐾
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 have shared. Elsa here with the latest scenes from around the Ranch. I’ll be joined by the House Pony who, as it turned out, had a successful batch of visits at the hospital. There may be hope for that lummox yet.
Wilson: {ignoring the snark} Hello, mates. Like my sister said, we’re here to share slices of nature we’ve seen. As Mum mentioned in our last Nature Friday post, the plan was to take in some leaf peeping over last weekend. Along with 87,000 of our closest city friends {sarcasm}. You probably saw the photo Mum posted earlier this week. In Mum’s voice, “what. a. cluster.” It was a good thing she was with good friends otherwise she may not have survived without making a fuss. After days of all the local TV stations telling everyone to get out and see the glorious colors on what was billed as prime leaf viewing, guess everyone heeded the advice because there were thousands of them lined up for miles and miles. Mum had never seen as many Teslas and trucks, some of whom got their side mirrors ripped off when they stupidly carelessly parked on the road to the summit of Guanella Pass. Bloody fools!
As you can see, it was quite the line heading back toward Denver. They were told there were hundreds of cars ahead of them and it took 3 hours to drive a mere 3 miles. But it was a gorgeous day and all they could do was sit in queue and ooh and aww at the beautiful changing colors.
Elsa: So tell me more about this Guanella Pass. I know Mom knew a bit about it but I’m not familiar.
Wilson: As it happens, I have some interesting info about Guanella Pass which is located about 56 miles west of Denver in the Front Range in southwestern Clear Creek County, near Georgetown. It was named after long-time road supervisor and commissioner, Byron Guanella.
The pass provides a route between Georgetown in the valley of Clear Creek to the north and Grant in the valley of Geneva Creek, a tributary of the North Fork South Platte River, to the south. The pass is traversed by the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway. The road provides a link between Interstate 70 to the north and U.S. Highway 285 to the south. [source: Wikipedia]
Elsa: Hmm…learn something new every day. What’s the scoop on the trees and why are they so special?
Wilson: Glad you asked. Colorado is known for its Aspen trees (also known as quaking aspens). They are native to colder climates which is one reason they do well in this state. Did you know that Colorado averages the highest number of peaks in the lower 48 states and has more thicker concentrations of these trees than anywhere else in the U.S. They do well in Colorado because of their ability to sprout new growth after large wildfires – of which there have been many in recent years. It is usually the first tree species to re-colonize a burn area. Aspens however are more fire resistant than other native trees such as the various kinds of evergreen trees. Aspens have a unique ability to the photosynthesis process in the white bark, while most trees carry out this process in their leaves. That means in winter once the leaves have fallen and snow begins to fall, the tree continues to produce sugar for energy which helps provide a food source for deer, elk and other animals. And finally, aspen trees cluster closely together because they clone themselves as roots sprout new trees and share an identical genetic makeup, making them extremely large organisms. Even though there may be multiple clones in an aspen grove, the grove’s leaves turn at the same time.
Elsa: Hmmm, you don’t say? I knew they were one of the largest organisms in nature but didn’t know the part about genetic makeup turning the leaves at the same time. So what else you got?
Wilson: What I got is some great photos while everyone waited to get through the gridlock. While Colorado is known for its bright ribbons of gold, Mum and her friends managed to see some spots of orange and red. Check out this gallery of pics:
Elsa: Gosh, no wonder there were so many people catching glimpses of those trees and shrubs. You gotta love the humor of the locals with that sign. Mom initially laughed but after waiting 3 hours to reach US 285 to head back to Denver, she kinda lost her humor. She said she’s never seen it that congested before.
Wilson: Can you blame her? Everyone was jonesing for their ‘Instagram’ moment and not really appreciating the beauty of nature. She was irritated that too many people were looking down at their devices rather than enjoying the scenery. How is it that people watch TikTok instead of enjoying being in Nature? I just don’t get it.
Elsa: There are so many reasons to not be able to understand humans and what they seem to value. I mean you and I would be running around sniffing up a storm and enjoying it all.
Wilson: Seems like a wasted opportunity. I do have one more local image to share…some mutant squash Mum and I encountered on our walk the other day. I thought it was a starfish at first.
Elsa: You’re right, that is weird. For the record, I’m not eating that.
Wilson: Oh no…me neither. Can you believe it? Me not wanting to eat something. That has to be a first.
Elsa: Egad, Mooommm, Wilson must be sick, he didn’t want to eat that squash!!
Wilson: Oh come on…it’s not that unusual.
Elsa: Ha! Don’t make me laugh. So…anything else you want to share?
Wilson: Well no more beautiful changing leaves but I did want to let everyone know that even though it was delayed a bit following a deathmatch between a couple of contestants which messed up the bracket, it’s Fat Bear Week. You can vote here.
Elsa: Oh for crying out loud…you’re promoting Fat Bear Week {paw smacks forehead}? This is not some sleazy tabloid, dude.
Wilson: I’m quite serious. Don’t forget to vote for your favorite Alaskan bear. I’m rooting that 128 Grazer will repeat.
Elsa: Oh jeez. Forget voting for a fat bear. Instead, enjoy this week’s Halloween scene from just around the corner from the Ranch. A skellie watchdog is better than some old fat bear. Have a great weekend and enjoy walking about in nature. Get out there and really savor it.
Wilson: Savor? Is there food somewhere I don’t know about?
Elsa: Oh for heaven’s sake…I just can’t. Have a great weekend enjoying nature.
Live, love bark! 🐾
lazy dog triathlon. I mean…just look at two of his best events.
We hope you have a splendid Monday and an even better week doing your best.
Live, love, bark! 🐾
Happy Monday. For those keeping score, there are twenty-nine days left in the summer from hell with today being the last Monday in August. Since Wilson joined the Ranch, he’s always been an ‘enthusiastic’ eater, so much so I serve meals in a puzzle slow feeder. It still only takes him about 5 minutes to gobble the kibble, toppers, veggies and supplements.
Today’s smile somewhat resembles mealtimes although I can’t imagine any delay in quickly inhaling his meal. The frame where Farley is waiting looks a lot like Wilson, although in his case, it’s because I have him wait until he receives the release command. This waiting period lasts from 30-60 seconds and has helped him with impulse control and confidence building, not that he’d ever wait for any condiments. The puddle of drool for me to clean up once he’s inhaled eaten his dinner is just a bonus for me.
Here’s hoping all your meals are ‘pawfect’ this week.
Live, love, bark! 🐾
Wilson: {continuing} These bloody things are everywhere and have caused nearly a 40% loss on farmer’s crops around Pueblo. As if squirrels weren’t bad enough noshing on Mum’s tomatoes, now we have to battle these bloody creatures with insatiable appetites. Grrrr.
Elsa: They constantly startle me when I go outside for potty breaks by jumping in front of me. Mom keeps encouraging me to “git it, Elsa” but no way Jose…I ain’t eating that foul thing. I refuse to even try.
Wilson: Me neither. I prefer wasp protein.
Elsa: {eye rolling} Oy, you’re just begging for a trip to the vet’s office aren’t you?
Wilson: Well, at least they appear to be easier prey than squirrels.
Elsa: You’re supposed to leave both of them alone, you bonehead! {smacking a paw to her forehead} Good grief, why in the world did I get this moron for a brother is beyond me.
Wilson: {disregarding the admonishment} Ahem…moving along. Speaking of vets, Mum found a couple of murals that were freshly painted on the building that’s going to house at a new local veterinary location that’s scheduled to open soon. We like our current vet but this one would be closer to our house and could be a good alternative on those days when the vet’s office is closed. Being a solo practicing vet, he began closing the office on Tuesdays during COVID so this could be a potential backup if necessary. Anyway, Mum was impressed with the artistry and the details on the murals.
Elsa: Nice! It’s rare these days to find a local independent vet not owned by a big corporate practice group.
Wilson: That’s exactly what Mom said. So, we’ve had some gorgeous sunrises this week. Mum always oohs and ahhs which means she’ll pull out her cellphone to take a picture just as we’re getting started on our walk. I need to remind her gently that “we’re walking and not photographing” but I don’t have the heart when she clearly loves early morning scenes like this. I will say it was a beautiful morning even if I had to wait to get rolling.
Elsa: I’ve begun to notice teeny tiny signs that we’re excited about seeing…little spots of leaves transitioning toward autumn, which, for the record, is just a month away. Hallelujah! It can’t arrive too soon in our books.
Wilson: That could be heat stress (lots of trees are suffering right now) but Mum thought this strip is watered often so maybe it is a sign that autumn is coming soon. Paws crossed. Moderate temperatures and that beautiful golden light will be so welcomed.
Elsa: I’ve noticed the Plumbago has been blooming profusely as have the Blue Mist Spirea around the Ranch. Bees really like these plants. Soon the Plumbago leaves will start to turn a beautiful shade of mahogany ushering in autumn.
Wilson: Bees? {smacking his lips}…
Elsa: Down bucko. Leave them alone; stand back and admire them as they pollinate work.
Wilson: Well alright. But I’d prefer to see them up close and personal. Mum was walking around the neighborhood and came across this beautiful Western Tiger Swallowtail butterfly, noshing on tasty, nectar filled phlox. He seemed shy as he kept turning away from Mum’s camera but must have been super hungry since he didn’t fly away for several minutes. Mum was so captivated at his beauty.
Elsa: Ooh, that was one handsome creature. Well buddy, thanks for sharing some halfway decent pics this week. Whatever you do this weekend, we hope you find time to find joy and beautiful images in Nature. We have no specific plans but just hope to kick back and relax. Have a great weekend!
Live, love, bark 🐾
Wilson’s Wagon will begin his probationary visits at the hospital next week and both Mom and he are so looking forward to bringing comfort to the folks at Lutheran. Once he completes his probationary period, he’s be awarded the purple scarf indicating he’s a full fledged pet therapy pooch. Couldn’t be more proud of the dude! Way to shine, “Intern Wilson.” You’re on your way to becoming a full fledged dogtor. And again, thanks every so much, Ann for doing an amazing job on today’s badges-you’re the best. That Denver skyline is the bomb! Don’t forget to drop by her truly wonderful blog. She’s the best!
Welcome to the latest edition of Nature Friday where we join our friends, Rosy and Sunny from Adventures of the LLB Gang. Elsa here. Another hot week is in the books and an even hotter one is forecast for next week. It is compounded with some of the worst air quality in the entire country. Denver continues to be plagued with ozone issues and now wildfire smoke coming from Canada and the Pacific Northwest has arrived. On Tuesday, the Swiss company IQAir who tracks air quality, rated Denver the worst in the country and was rated 9th worst in the world. With 40+% humidity and somewhat cloudy conditions, our walks stop being fun. Normally the humidity hovers in the very low teens so this definitely feels muggy to us.
Wilson: Exactly. As I walk three times farther than you do, I huff and puff like a bloody steam engine. Even potty breaks throughout the day are short to say the least.
Elsa: It’s miserable for all of us. Normally the early morning air is clean and fresh but we know isn’t because Mom coughs almost the entire walk even before she checks for air quality alerts that now last all pretty much all day long.
Wilson: It’s enough to make a chap stay indoors, I tell you. But let’s share what we saw just this morning, shall we?
Elsa: I’m game. What ‘cha got?
Wilson: Well I’m still getting used to the botany around here. I have to inspect some things very closely.
Elsa: Umm, I think you photobombed Mom.
Wilson: Ah…well, how’s this frame showing off that beautiful Coleus and those lovely Dahlias?
Elsa: Oh yes, that’s much better. That planter has a lot of pretties in it. And besides, no one wants to see your big fat jughead in a planter.
Wilson: {miffed} Well, I had to check it up close and personal and can tell you that I was quite mesmerized by all that color. Nearby I found a nice patch of orange coneflower, also known as Rudbeckia that was located within some other plants. Guess Mum realized she probably needs to hold me close to her so I don’t investigate too closely.
Elsa: Well just realize it’s good practice for you to stay close for when you go visit folks at hospital. They can’t have your large tuchus sashaying all over the hallways.
Wilson: Oh dear, I never thought about it like that. I’ll make a note since I certainly don’t want to get Mum in trouble because I’m investigating the world around me and will try to stay more focused.
Elsa: You say that now, but I know when a squirrel or bunny comes into view, all bets are off. At least you give the birds a break.
Wilson: Not that there will likely be any birds in hospital but crikey…you ever try to get close to birds? Obviously they don’t want to become friends with a cuddly chap like me anyway.
Elsa: Your size probably intimidates them. I learned a long time ago it’s impossible to try to get close to them. Those wings work hard to stay away from the jaws of death.
Wilson: If you think I’m big, you should see the Irish Wolfhound puppies. Those little buggers are growing like weeds. Check out this little ‘chonker.’ He’s the largest of the litter and will likely be quite a specimen when fully grown. Check out those little pinky paws and that round belly!
Elsa: I’ll grant you that he and his siblings are going make you look small by comparison. Mom’s daughter says they’re doing well and gaining weight.
Wilson: They’re sure cute and I’m glad Mum receives regular updates on how they’re doing. And just for the record, the ‘jaws of death’ are reserved just for squirrels. I will say the birds were definitely enjoying all the sunflowers we walk past. They wait until the last second to avoid any encounters with me and Mum while eating the seeds.
Elsa: Everyone seems to like sunflowers. They’re pretty cheery, that’s for sure. I’m also a big fan of hollyhocks. They can grow just about anywhere and it makes you wonder how they manage to thrive in sidewalk cracks.
Wilson: Right-o! Another beautiful example of brilliant color. Rather like this daylily which I’m particularly fond. They are blooming all over the neighborhood in assorted colors.
Elsa: Oooh, that is a vivid specimen! I’ll give you points for finding that one. So…you got any critter sightings this week?
Wilson: As a matter of fact, I do. This cat was lounging inside the windowsill and seemed fairly focused on making sure we didn’t linger too long interrupting his bird watching. We walk past that house every day, but have never seen him before. He seems like a fairly big fellow.
Elsa: Meh…I’m sure I could take him.
Wilson: {gasp} Why on earth would you? He’s minding his own business. Such hostility…what’s up with that?
Elsa: It’s not hostility-I’m a Ninja. It’s just what we do.
Wilson: I see no reason to cause a bloody ruckus in the neighborhood. Unless we’re talking about squirrels…then you have my wholehearted approval…although I’d prefer if you left the squirrel hunting to me. I’m getting better at anticipating their wily ways. Why just a couple of days ago, I was within a whisker of catching one before he jumped up on to a power pole to escape.
Elsa: Yeah, You startled both me and Mom. Remember the house rule-one mustn’t hurt Mom.
Wilson: Well he startled me, too. And because I know it upsets Mum, I’ll keep that rule in mind. I did however see that African chap you’ve mentioned before. I think he enjoys munching on tree leaves.
Elsa: {eyes rolling} You buffoon…that’s yard art. That giraffe statute isn’t real.
Wilson: It’s not? Hmm…that’s a major disappointment. So little sister…what plans do you have for the weekend?
Elsa: Lots of naps in air-conditioned paradise, Dude. Not much else can be done. Oh and I’ll probably check out some of coverage of the Olympics. But that’s the extent of it.
Wilson: I’ll be right there with you. I rather enjoy watching the telly. Whatever you do, we hope you have a marvelous weekend and hopefully are able to see some of the finer examples of nature’s beauty when and wherever possible. Cheerio!
Live, love, bark! 🐾
Elsa: It’s a Saturday and with me posting here, I hope you aren’t freaked out. Yeah, I know, it’s weird but there’s a good reason. Today is the House Pony’s 6th Barkday. Mom asked me if I wanted to host a ‘paw-ty’ and being the sweet girl I am {giggle, I know, I could hardly stop guffaw-ing even thinking about it), I agreed.
Wilson: Aww, you love me…she actually loves me. {butt wiggling} Thanks, Ninja.
Elsa: Whoa, whoa, whoa…umm, let’s not go all Sally Fields on me, ok? I’m still just a tad leery of being in close proximity around you. I mean, you know…boy cooties and all. This is probably the closest I’ve been next to you in a while so just be grateful. But don’t get any bright ideas like this is gonna be a ‘thang’ cuz I’m a Ninja and well, we Ninjas live in shadows. Got it? That’s why Mom can never get a good pic of me-I blend in too well and you rarely, if ever, see any details in my face.
Wilson: Oh, I thought it was because Mum’s not the best photographer around {mom wincing but nodding her head in agreement}. Well, I still appreciate your efforts and the good wishes. You’re making me feel loved and that’s all that matters. So…wanna come to my paw-ty and nosh on the goodies Mum’s making?
Elsa: Umm, yeah, no. I was taking a nap when Mom asked me if I wanted some watermelon and I actually turned up my nose.
Wilson: Blasphemy! How can you turn down such a tasty treat? Mum used her doggo cookie cutters and everything and had watermelon juice running down her arms. I mean…come on! It’s a paw-ty!
Elsa: Nope, it’s hot and those candles kinda wigged me out so paw-ty hardy, pal. You like the attention…go for it!
Wilson: Well if you insist. Let’s see…I guess I’m supposed to make a wish, right?
Wilson: {continuing} Umm, let’s see…I want this wish to come true. I know, I got it! I want treats all weekend!
Elsa: {eyes rolling} You’re not very original, are you?
Wilson: Well, what else would you suggest? I mean, Mum already plays with me, she takes me for pawsome walks around the neighborhood, and she is making sweet potato jerky which I just know I’m going to love. And…and…she’s making pupcakes for later this weekend…I mean what else could a guy possibly wish for on his…
Elsa: {interrupting} Do you ever equate the good life with something other than food?
Wilson: {gasp!} Without food?! {head cocked} What’s the point of that? That doesn’t sound very fun.
Elsa: Whatever…you do you, ok? But while you’re at it, please make it a great birthday, okay? I’ve got street cred that needs to be preserved. Don’t want anyone to think I can’t do birthday celebrations.
Wilson: I promise. And thanks for the birthday wishes. Now, let’s cut up that watermelon and get this paw-ty started.
Live, love, bark! 🐾
Wilson: Bone? What…where…did you get a fresh bone? How come I didn’t get a bone?
Elsa: Here we go again. Yo, “Hoover,” it’s an expression. I didn’t get a bone; there. are. no. bones, I’m just describing the moisture situation. Or lack thereof.
Wilson: Whew, I was afraid that maybe I missed something to nosh upon…ok carry on.
Elsa: {eyes rolling} Well, it’s that time of summer where bad grasses come out and stick to everything…socks, furry legs, paws, well you get the idea. Mom had to pull some of those nasty things off both of our ankles and feet and several of them managed to weave their nasty little selves into our back door mat. They’re a real pain to remove since they’re like Velcro with barbed ends. We’ve written about these rotten things before. Well dude, I’m here to tell ya they haven’t gotten any less evil. Let’s take a gander at Foxtails first. Yikes, they have a gajillion seeds that are stickier than Gorilla Glue…just waiting for some unsuspecting chunk of fur to attack like Velcro.
Guess Nature decided Foxtails weren’t bad enough, so she decided to create goatgrass. This one is particularly troublesome for us dogs and can cause all sorts of problems.
Wilson: Yeah, one those guys hitchhiked on one of my legs when I was sniffing for the perfect spot to relieve myself and I had a devil of a time trying to pull that bad boy out. And I thought the weeds and bugs were bad in Missouri.
Elsa: Oh trust me, Missouri does not have a monopoly on bad weeds. Luckily Mom is neurotic very conscientious about anything that sticks to our furs. Which is a good thing, unless of course, you’re the one at the end of a slicker brush.
Wilson: Egad…don’t remind me {shivers}. Count me in the ‘not a fan’ category.
Elsa: Down Wimpy…let’s talk about some nice things. Hibiscus flowers are in bloom right now. Talk about striking and BIG. Did you know they are part of the mallow family. The leaves alternate, ovate to lanceolate, and can be toothed on the edges. The flowers are huge, rather trumpet-shaped, with five or more petals. They can range in color from white to pink, red, blue, orange, peach, yellow or purple, and are approximately 4–18 cm (1-1/2 to 7 inches) across. Dried hibiscus is edible and is often a delicacy in Mexico. It can also be candied and used as a garnish, usually for desserts. Contrary to popular beliefs that the flowers or petals are what is being eaten, it’s actually the calyces (that part in the center of the bloom). Even your big fat head looks small by comparison.
Wilson: Hey, that’s not nice. There’s nothing abnormal about the size of my head; I just needed to see how it smelled.
Elsa: Well, you do have a large head and nose, you can’t deny that.
Wilson: Like I said, I’m perfectly sized for a sheepdog.
Elsa: Oh, you mean B-I-G? Whatever. Did you notice the new lawn art in the ‘Hood? At least I think they’re rather new-ish.
Wilson: I did. I wasn’t quite sure what to make of those things. It seemed clear they weren’t squirrels or rabbits, but I wasn’t sure just what they were. They were quiet and didn’t move one bit. Such stealthy creatures.
Elsa: Oh my dog…you are such an idiot! Those are lawn art statutes, you bozo. Jeez…were you standing behind the door when they were handing out brains? {smacking a paw against her forehead}
Wilson: Well, I’ve never seen anything like that, and you shouldn’t be so judgmental.
Elsa: You’re right, sorry. But for the love of all that’s holy…I can’t believe how literally you take things. Anyway, let’s share our last photo for this week. Mom seems obsessed with heart shaped things lately and she seems to often be in the right place at the right time and found this new heart. She’s walked past this corner garden lot for years and the owner is always switching things out or otherwise updating the plants. Looks like she decided to install a heart-shaped succulent space. I kinda thought it was kind of sweet.
Wilson: Cute little hen and chicks.
Elsa: Whoa…look who’s got the Mister Green Jeans impersonation down pat.
Wilson: Hey, I’m not just a handsome face. So what’s everyone doing this weekend? Mum said she’s attending the Open House for the new Lutheran Hospital which opens in two weeks. She attended the ribbon cutting ceremony last night and says I’m gonna love visiting the new facility. It’s amazing and will be incredibly modern and state of the art updated compared to the old hospital. Hopefully I can visit the nurses and staff on practice runs soon.
Elsa: Paws crossed. I need some quiet time where I don’t have to explain everything to you. You can be quite exhausting at times. Whatever you do, we hope you’ll take some time to look for all the cool things Nature gifts with us. Have a great weekend, peeps!
Live, love, bark! ,🐾
Here we are again. It’s hard to be enthusiastic about setting another record breaking day…but hopefully it will be the last one for a while. We hope everyone had a good weekend, stayed as cool as possible as well as hydrated and that this week is kinder and more gentle to you. The countdown for a cool front to arrive is on to which we say…yes please.
Have a great day and an even better week. Happy Monday.
Live, love, bark! 🐾
