First Sighting

Just as I finished up my yard work and gardening today, I came across this lovely Io moth that was resting in our rose bush ... a smart choice since the thorns would help protect it from any hungry predators.  It was the very first time I'd ever seen this beautiful moth.  It's so exciting to see one of nature's creatures for the first time!

 

Sweet Summer Slumber



Shanti epitomizes the joy of a lazy summer afternoon

 

Bee Balm Buddies



Turtle Time



June has been the month for box turtle sightings.  The beautiful fellow in the top photograph appeared in our yard yesterday.  He was so bold and didn't seem to mind the camera at all.  After his photo shoot, he retreated into one of our gardens.  In contrast, the two ladies we found earlier this month were totally photo shy, remaining in their shells and not even peeking out to see what was going on around them.  All three turtles were healthy with beautiful markings, as you can see! 

Coming Along

Always, slow to start, but steadily continuing to grow, our garden is beginning to yield the fruits of our labor.  Tomatoes are growing on the vine, peppers are slowly getting bigger, and the bean plants are beginning to flower.  It's always such a feeling of satisfaction when garden plants begin to show signs that they've made it and will produce their nutritious and delicious veggies!

 

Bee Balm Beauty

Bees aren't the only ones attracted to our bright pink bee balm flowers.  The male ruby throated hummingbird seen in the photo made multiple visits to these flowers throughout the day.  Since we had no choice but to take the hummingbird feeder down, due to the marauding bears, our tiny jeweled hummers have to fend for themselves and find their own sustenance.  The bee balm flowers are one of many that provide the hummingbirds with sweet nectar ~ a high energy food to go with the little insects they consume to keep going.  Their miniscule wings beat so fast, you can barely see them as they hover over the flowers.

First There Was One

Our back yard is now ablaze with day lilies!

 

Grin and "Bear" It

Today's backyard visitors.  Mother bear was so comfortable, she took a break to nurse her three cubs.

The First

June is day lily time here.  These big orange flowers burst forth, bringing so much brightness to our yard.  There's always one that starts off the show...and these photographs show the first!