It was a foggy morning in Acadia National Park, ME when we visited one day. But Maine is beautiful...and there was beauty everywhere I looked! We spent a couple of nights in Bar Harbor right on the coast, which gave me the waves and smell of the ocean that I crave. I have missed going to the beach....maybe a weekend this fall?

Backyard feeding stations

Not the best picture, since it was taken from inside, but this is what I must deal with daily. The birds must share the seeds with the squirrels. I actually don't mind the sharing, I just dislike the hogging of the feeders by said squirrels. They are flexible and stealthy little rodents, though very cute and fun to watch. So my only option is to spread the seeds and feeders out to various areas of the landscape, hoping no one monopolizes all of the feeding stations. So far, everyone seems happy. I must bring all feeders in at night because of raccoons. They empty everything, even the hummingbird feeders!

Where's the warmth?

Okay, it's now May, and time for warmth and sunshine along with all of the outdoor activities that take place this time of year. But instead, today was cool, overcast, and a chilly breeze kept me from enjoying much time outside. Now don't get me wrong. I'm not a fan of 90's in May. But it barely got out of the 50's, and I do enjoy the 70's for my outdoor time! I'm still hoping the warm air comes soon----but for now, rain is forecast over the next few days. Sigh.

wordless wednesday: fiddleheads

Wordless Wednesday

Remember Earth Day is April 22.

Where's spring?

These two playful red pandas are sure enjoying the snow. Of course, they are adapted to snowy climates. I am certainly glad there are creatures that enjoy the snow, but IT IS TIME FOR SPRING! Here in Virginia, it is about ten degrees cooler than normal for late March, and even my forsythias have frozen in time. Past years these bushes have given me early spring beauty that fills me with the hope of future warmth. This late March they have not bloomed out-there are hints of yellow, but the cold nights are putting the blooms on hold. Should be in the 50's to low 60's over the next couple of days. I need to soak up some sun! Please, please, Sun, send us some of your warmth soon!

P.S. This cute picture was found on tumblr.com with no reference. I assume it is from a zoo. I am sorry for giving no credit. If you own it, I'll be glad to credit you!

Lichens alive!

The boulder above, which is near the St. Patty's day moss, has developed layers of lichen now. Moss is beginning to encroach on the lichen. And then, there is the boulder shown left, which has ferns and mountain laurel growing on it along with the moss! I am continually amazed at nature, especially plants. The boulders are weathered granite, I believe, and they are arranged in an interesting rough-and-tumble disarray. So far, I cannot find any pattern to them, except that they are exposed along an embankment above the creek.