Last summer's Hollyhocks

Here are some photos of last summer's (2014's) Hollyhocks. They are the same that were photographed in 2013, but they bloomed even more profusely last summer. In the grip of winter, photos of flowers like these seem like miracles.

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The Hope of Spring

Growing up I loved the 4 or 5 Hyacinths that grew under my parents bedroom each Spring. Their beauty so unexpected, and the scent, heavenly. As an adult I've always stopped to smell them whenever I see them each Spring, whether in someone else's garden, or at the grocery store. One Spring I was particularly sad. I bought a Hyacinth and placed it next to my bed, so I could smell it as I fell asleep and first thing when I woke up. A wonderful way to heal. Now that I have my own garden, I can plant my own Hyacinths. I had what I didn't know were overly-ambitious plans for both Tulips and Hyacinths - Tulips lining most of the front beds and Hyacinths lining the back patio. Once I calculated the cost of all, I realized I need to do this slowly, a bit each year. Of course the Hyacinths must be first. I am so excited about the colors I chose - slightly non-traditional. I ordered four colors from John Scheepers. They are: Hyacinthus orientalis L'Innocence (white) Hyacinthu...

Participate in the Great Backyard Bird Count!

Cornell University's Great Backyard Bird Count is happening now! They collect data on bird species and their whereabouts from all over the country at this time each year, and you can help. It's easy to participate - just look out your window for 15 minutes each day, today through Monday, and fill out a form on their website noting what species you saw and how many. Here are some notes from their FAQ: How is the information from the GBBC used? Bird populations are constantly changing. No single scientist or team of scientists could hope to keep track of the complicated patterns of movement of so many species over an entire continent. The information from GBBC participants becomes even more valuable as scientists try to learn how birds are affected by environmental changes. The information you send in can provide the first sign that individual species may be increasing or declining from year to year. It shows how a species’ range expands or shrinks over time. A big change,...

Autumn Rain

Autumn rain makes the colors so bright and beautiful. The falling, bright colored leaves seem like a celebration. The Hickories are turning bright gold: The Burning Bush on the west side of the house is slowly being painted scarlet: The shrub roses adorn themselves with raindrop pearls: The Hostas drink all the water they can by gathering with their big jungle leaves and storing it deep into their root systems: The Hydrangeas' fall colors shimmer in the rain. Muted pink, purple, and green pastels blend into each other, looking like organza dresses at an old-fashioned ice cream social: The crabapples look good enough to eat. But we know better. The Hickories and Oaks live in harmony, celebrating Autumn together.

A Well-Watered Garden

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