Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Harbingers of Spring

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Flowering Quince.


 Narcissus
Snow Drops

 Japanese Magnolia

                                       For the beauty of each hour
                                        Of the day and of the night,
                                 Hill and vale, and tree, and flower,
                                 Sun and moon, and stars of light,
                                 Lord of all, to Thee we raise,
                                 This our hymn of grateful praise.

                                    Folliott S. Pierpoint 1835-1917


Linking to Outdoor WednesdaysWow us Wednesday and Open House Party .Party.

Saturday, January 28, 2012

Orchids are Enchanting!

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Couldn't decide where to put my orchid. Wish I had a different species in every spot in these pictures. Orchids captivate me.  I have not been able to get an orchid to rebloom at my house and I believe not enough light is the reason. 
 This book opens with a ribbon tyed on the side and includes two books. It has gorgeous pictures and worlds of information.



Linking to Seasonal Sundays, Tabletop Tuesday and Wow us Wednesday.

Friday, January 20, 2012

Bragging on Daughter

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My daughter made these pictures in my garden during Christmas. I think they are beautiful! She posted them on her blog, Amazing Grace, and mentioned she thought this statuary had the sweetest face.  She did a marvelous job on the photography and I enjoy getting photography tips from her anytime.














It's a rainy day here and I've seen snow pictures on many blogs today so I hope these pics will add a bit of cheer to your day. You may view my daughter's blog by clicking on the picture on my sidebar.  She is a treasure!

Monday, January 16, 2012

Robins, Cedar Waxwings and a Grackle!

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This is not a great picture but wanted you to see the cedar wax wings darting back and forth. In my excitement from the inside window this is not a good picture but did not want to miss the moment.





Dozens of cedar wax wings drink from my fountain joined by robins and a new bird I was unfamiliar with.  For a long time today they flew back and forth in the trees and to the fountain. I counted ten robins at once walking on the grass in front of the fountain but I could not get a picture.

The black bird with blue head  at the bottom of photo is known as a common grackle in Alabama. I had not seen one until today and looked him up in my bird book. Notice the robin at the top.




Stan Tekiela is a naturalist, wildlife photographer and the originator of many popular state-specific field guides. My book was a thoughtful gift from a friend. Check and see if your state is available. He has authored over 100 field guides, nature books and audio CD's presenting many species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, trees, wildflowers and cacti.


 Last year they visited my birdbath  in March so they are earlier this year. There was no water in my birdbath today so they found the fountain instead.



The cedar wax wings came in alone last year. I thought it was very interesting that the  cedar wax wings, robins and grackle flew in together today. I am so glad I was home and did not miss their visit both years.
The beautiful cardinal is a frequent visitor to my garden and gives me much joy. However, what I am dreaming of is the elusive bluebird. I have moved my bluebird box to three locations in my yard with no luck. My yard is too wooded.


Here he sits last year scouting out places to nest. I've seen other scouts this year in the neighborhood. How special it would be if they would choose our garden this year. What delight!