Hummingbirds And Their Feeders

Hummingbirds are such a delight in my opinion! They are very little, very fast, very curious, very beautiful, very competitive, very feisty and a whole lot of fun!  I recently came across this little info regarding care of a Hummingbird feeder.  And, some of the information is new to me. There may be some information new and/or interesting to you, too.

If you are interested in some detailed information about Hummingbirds this is a very informative website. I guess I can say "everything you ever  wanted to know about Hummingbirds - and more!   https://www.discoverwildlife.com/animal-facts/birds/facts-about-hummingbirds/

And, this is a nice presentation of - - - - - - - - - - - - - 

A few days ago I went to Ace Hardware that has a lovely Garden Center.  And I realized that it was the first time this year that I have been anywhere that sells plants , etc.  That means that I have NOT spent even a penny on my garden this year. And, that is for several reasons. I have not had the energy/stamina to do anything that isn't necessary. Another reason is that I don't have the strength to work with whatever I purchase.

The only activity that I have been able to do in the garden has simply been to maintain it by weeding and pruning what needs it and of course a lot of hand watering and setting and moving a sprinkler.  And, you know what - - - the garden looks quite good.  At the present time, my corner property is bordered with 25 Bright Red Oleander shrubs that are in total bloom.  It is a beautify sight when you approach my corner. I wanted to take a photo but the sun exposure has not been good when I think about it. 

Oh, I found I have a couple photos!  The hedge is about six feet tall and still growing.

In reality the color looks more red.

It is starting to give some nice privacy, which I appreciate.  Especially since I am not particularly well groomed these days! 😎

That's it for today.  Be Happy - Be Healthy.

Mary

The sun is out but distorted because of a lot of smoke.  However, there are some nice billowy white clouds trying to break through.  And, it is already feeling hot and sticky.

With the poor air quality, it seems like there aren't as many birds in my garden.  Since I regularly sit in an outside chair throughout the day and enjoy the presence of nature and the thoughts that gently swirl around in my head and also watch the antic of the birds in particular, it seems quieter when there is smoke in the air.

Yesterday, I did not do a thorough job of watering because I went to the grocery store.  That errand has become very difficult and less desirable because of the pain of lifting much weight.  Bringing the box of CAT LITTER into the house is terrible. Next to impossible. And, they seem to be packaging it in larger-heavier boxes.  Which is good.  But, some days I wait until the next day to bring it in the house because of my pain level!

So, I look foreword to soon going outside to water and check for new growth and flowers.  And, then I need to do some cooking for meals for the week.  Sometimes it is hard to eat healthy when sometimes I don't feel like preparing anything!

Ivy says HI and she says she is being a good girl and enjoying spending many hours a day outside in her Catio.

Take Care.

Mary

Mysteries In The Garden

I was not able to plant anything this year in the raised planter I use for planting vegetables.  However, the weeds found it to be a very desirable spot to go wild.  So, the time came for me to remove them. And, I planned to lay down some cardboard to deter any further weeds.  Like all my activities these day I have to do my tasks in small allotments of time.  A little now and a little then and it gets done.

As I was finishing up and smoothing out the soil a saw something that got my attention in the far corner of the raised planter.

What in the world am I seeing?  As I proceeded to pick it up with my gloved hand it felt and looked like a big chicken egg.  It had some weight to it and felt like something was inside.  I gently returned it to its location and covered it as I found it.  I have never seen anything like it in my garden in the past.

What do you think it is or what is it going to be?  After checking it for a couple days it is still intact and safe.  Is it a lizard or a snake?  Any ideas?  A little strange since I have been writing lately about the lizards in my garden!!!

And, here is a quick photo of the latest new bloom in my garden. 

 

From the White Garden, the Rose of Sharon Hibiscus.  The tall plant is getting limited sunlight because of a very large Fig tree that I have been pruning to give more sunlight thus more blooms.

This morning I have been getting caught up on miscellaneous jobs like refilling the Yellow Jacket Traps with attractant, installed a new outdoor thermometer on the outside window frame so I can easily see the HOT temperature through my dinning room window.  We are having a heat wave and it is currently over 100 degrees.  Also refilled the Humming bird feeder with fresh nectar.

And, of course the daily outdoor watering of the garden!

Have a Great Day and let me know what you think is going to be born in my raised planter.  Of course we may never know if it lives to scamper away!!!

Mary 

Squirrels and Butterflies and A Frightening Lizard

Along with my interest in birds and foxes there are many more creatures in my garden that I enjoy.  Along with the many Squirrels that are such a common sight that I often forget that not everyone sees squirrels when they walk out their front door! 

(I caught this one on the run to get a photo)

There is another little creature that can be very elusive especially during infancy and that is the Lizard!  Since the beginning of gardening season I have noticed a few more lizards like no other year.  During the recent weeks I have notice many many little lizards that are scampering about all over in my yard. I understand that this is the time that the baby lizards have been hatching out of their eggs.  Most of these baby lizards are one of two widespread species in this part of California and they are the Western Fence Lizard and the Side-blotched Lizard.

This is what "the little ones" look like in my garden that I think are the Western Fence Lizard.  When researching I came to realize how many different species of lizards there are around the world  -  and it is a LOT!   It's easy to understand why so many children enjoy playing with lizards.  They really are fascinating.             

                                                (Google Image)

Before this year, I didn't really care much for lizards!  Actually, feeling a little annoyed with them, not knowing where they were going "so fast".  But, now I think they are kind of cute as I constantly see them scurrying out from under one rock to another or an area they feel safe.

Many years ago I had an incident with an ALLIGATOR LIZARD (who looked pretty big to me) that got into my car - - some how.  And, he/she would lie in the back window of the car sunning itself when the car wasn't being driven.  For months we searched to get that lizard out of my car with no success. We even tore the upholstery apart!  What was I going to do.  I feared that one day it would crawl up my pant leg!  YIKES.  So, I kept using the car - always on "high alert".

Many months (maybe a year) went by when one day I went shopping to a garden center to buy a couple large clay pottery pats.  I put then on the floor in the back seat.  Nesting one inside the other.  When I got home I was tired and decided to take the pots out of the car in the morning because my back was painful and they were heavy. 

So, in the morning I went about my day and eventually decided to take the pots out of the car.  I lifted the smaller pot up and "WHAT THE ------"!  There it was!

(Google Image - California Alligator Lizard)

Alright now - RELAX AND THINK . I don't remember the details, but some how I managed to put a black trash bag over the large pot and get the lizard in the bag without the clay pot. 

 Off I drove to an area close buy that was more rural.  Because I didn't want to harm him I dumped him out to rehome him away from my home.  And, I yelled "HAPPY NEW HOME - LIZZY".  And, even now when I drive by that spot I occasionally remember and  say "Hi Lizzy".

A little "crazy" helps get us from one day to the next - - don't you think?

Well, I guess another day I'll comment on my love of butterflies!

OH, I want to mention that yesterday when I was out watering near the front fence I thought I saw "my" fox. It looked like he was lying down, stretched out showing all it's beautiful colors.  Sadly, he was dead.  He didn't look like he had been hit by a car (since he was close to the road) but he looked normal - like sleeping! It was such a shock to me.  I had not realized how attached I had become to my forest creatures.  I found myself putting my hand over my heart!  Rest in peace little one!

Mary

The Plant That I Could Not Smell

That's right.  The day I could NOT smell the Gardenias that had just started blooming, I knew something wasn't right. 

But, had no idea what was going on with me.  And, I don't really have any idea to this day!   If you have ever smelled Gardenias you know what I mean!  It's a fragrance that you can not ignore. My plant is loaded with buds and before long the plant will be a shower of white blossoms.  I have always liked Gardenias.  When I was young and growing up our backyard was bordered on one side with gardenias.  I have no idea who planted them.  But, I always enjoyed the yearly fragrance!

I think it was in 2020 about this time of year that I totally lost my sense of Smell.  I do not know why but thankfully my sense of smell has almost returned to normal.  This was happening during the time I was loosing weight.  Otherwise, I felt fine.  In addition to loosing my sense of smell and appetite I have had a change in the quality of my skin. Never had dry and flakey skin prior.  My appetite has returned and I have gained some weight  The important thing for me is that I am feeling OK!  No doctor that I saw had any assistance or direction for me.  I had vaccinations as directed! 

Throughout my life I have had a strong immunity.  I never had any childhood diseases.  Never had the flu and can't remember the last time I had a cold - but it was a long time ago.  I kind of  wonder if my body was fighting off something!  Possibly Covid . 

With the recent serge of another Covid variant I take it very seriously to continue to be aware of precautions .

My sincere concern for all of you who have had life altering events as a result of Covid!

Interesting World we live in.  Blessings and Encouragement to live life to the fullest.

Mary

Do You Know The Green Man

This is The Green Man that overlooks my garden leaning against the upper region of one of my old and tall cedar trees. He has been up there for years and sure seems to being a good job!

The Green Man is Mainly associated with the symbol of Rebirth, representing the cycle of growth each spring. Some say he is the ancient guardian of the forest.

Some speculate the mythology of the Green Man developed independently in the tradition of separate ancient cultures and evolved into the wide variety of examples found throughout history.

The Celtic tradition was highly resolved around the fertility of the land and lush vegetation was a sign of prosperity.

Instead of repurposing the Green Man, the church embraced the Green Man through architecture.

In fact, most European churches have Green Men hiding all around the walls and ceilings. Next time you are in one be sure to look around.

You will be amazed as to just how many are scattered around from Ireland to even many parts of Russia.

The reason the Catholic church didn't seem to mind this Celtic symbol was because of Jesus Christ As the symbol is of death and resurrection (rebirth), the church saw it as a way to spread the word of Christianity through symbology. 

My garden has surprised me so much this year.  Even with the terrible clay soil, no

fresh fertilizer or compost and the late frost and snow fall, the blooms have been exceptional!

Similar to the one above but different.  There is slight difference in color and and the one above is edged with color.

All so beautiful, maybe for the fact that I have watered more frequently because there are so many things that I can not do in the house and the garden. And I want to be outside when the weather is pleasant.

A few days ago when I was watering I had an unexpected guest.  It was the most beautiful BROWN FOX cruising along the top of the fence not to far from where I was standing. He stopped and we starred at each other and then he continued with his travels and then jumped down into the neighbors yard.

(google image - California fox)

And, then a couple days later I was along the fence watering and along came another fox only a few feet away.  It looked a lot thinner than the previous sighting.  

The birds of all types have been visiting.  I especially enjoy the red headed wood peckers doing their thing on the trees and power poles! Their noise helps me to see where they are. And, their red crown is such a vibrant red!

(Google  Image - California Wood Pecker)

And, of course the Blue Jays are everywhere and constantly taking care of business!

Another frequent visitor soaring above the trees are the hawks. Reportedly, California has 13 different kinds of hawks.  I think our hawks are Red-Tailed Hawks. And they make a loud screeching persistent sound.  I saw one perched up high in one of my trees making lots of noise. I went for my camera and was able to get a photo with my simple point and shoot camera, much to my surprise.

 

And, Hummingbirds flitting here and there outside my window.

OH, What a Wonderful World!  My Garden is my refuge where I never think about the goings on we see on TV is we watch.

Mary 

Water, Water, Water Go Away

I know this is somewhat strange to say when we are having a drought here in California.

But, it looks like the earth is leaking.  This has been increasing for months and now it is time to take care of.  It's a leaking water line that goes from the house to the water meter.  Unfortunately, there was a mistake that was made by a Sprinkler System Installer that cut the line several years ago and repaired it but did not reveal the incident to me.  All was well for a few years before the "earth started leaking ".

When I had it checked out, we learned at that time that the line had already been repaired and then it had to be repaired again.  This is a photo of what it looked like when the last repair was done a few years ago.

Replacing the line was discussed. But, since it would be at my expense because it is on my property and not beyond the water meter I decided to try another repair.

But, now I thought the time may have come that would require a more permanent solution.

OK, now.  It has become very difficult to hire a plumber lately because there has been a lot of new home construction taking place in these Sierra Nevada Foothills. Finally, I found a Drain and Sewer Repair Service.  

Well, two men came out and took a look at the surface water.  I provided this photo for them and when they started digging they were able to determine that the leak was coming from above the other repair location. After they left to buy parts they returned and were able to do the repair.

I am certainly happy that this matter is taken care of, but I was very unhappy with their attitude and behavior.  Showing no regards for my garden plants when digging or throwing the rocks from the border! 

It seems like it is getting a lot more difficult to get service companies that show any real concern for issues at hand.  Now, I have to put the garden "back in order"!

I will receive the invoice in the mail.  And - - - I am so blessed I have the money to pay for it!  That hasn't always been the case.

Hope All is Well for You.

Mary

What's This All About

Well, it looks like it is the cupboard above the refrigerator and it hasn't been opened for years - yes years.  What's inside?  Well, I have been trying to clean out the house a little at a time while my physical abilities prevent me from doing a lot of activity like of the past.  And, this is my Dinnerware China service for eight and all the serving pieces that was bought 63 years ago when I got married.

YES, TODAY WOULD BE MY 63rd WEDDING ANNIVERSITY - - - - - if my husband had not been caught up in illegal drugs when he started new employment on night shift and I was working days.  These were the 60's when drugs, sex and rock 'n roll were the culture of the time.  We were going through a rough time regarding his employment. Therefor he was more vulnerable at the time.

Up until that time I couldn't have been happier with my life with a great husband and two very lovable children.  That was for about nine years.  It's rather a sad story and some thing I could never imagined in all my life.  I didn't even know anybody that was divorced! No more specifics other than the damage to all of us has been heartbreaking with a lot of trauma and heartache, especially for the children.  He died at age 47.

My life has been extremely challenging but I have had a full life filled with many wonderful experiences and I am content and  grateful for the life I have had. It's just terribly different than I would have expected.

I have my own home, enough money and I am still able to live at home even with my orthopedic situation. I am blessed.

As you can see, I enjoyed dishes and entertaining starting way back then! But, it is time to get help getting the dishes down and send them on their way for someone else to enjoy.  

I hope you are doing well and enjoying this time of year.

Mary

Statue Of Liberty

 

This lovely lady is on my 4th of July post a few days ago.  Lady Liberty is beautifully crated in fine bisque porcelain accented with pure 24 carat gold. She was fashioned in 1986 by Franklin Mint in celebration of 100th anniversary.  "The Statue of America, which has welcomed millions of immigrants to the United States from its commanding setting overlooking New York Harbor. A giant symbol of the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution, the Lady with the Torch, as she is often called, has beckoned to people all over the world ever since the day 1886 when she raised her lamp beside the Golden Door.

And, what is the Golden Door?  Reportedly, it is the nickname for Jersey City, Ellis Island, the "golden door" through which many immigrants to the USA have passed.

And, where did She come from? The Statue of Liberty is a colossal neoclassical sculpture on Liberty Island in New York Harbor in New York City, in the United States. The copper statue was a gift from the French people commemorating the alliance of France and  the United States during the American Revolution and was  dedicated on October 28, 1886.

The statue is a figure of a robed Roman liberty goddess. She holds a torch above her head with her right hand and in her left hand carries a tablet inscribed  JULY IV MDCCLXXVI   (July 4, 1776 in Roman numerals), the date of U.S Declaration of Independence. A broken shackle and chain lie at her feet as she walks forward, commemorating the Recent National Abolition Of Slavery.

After its dedication, the statue became an icon of freedom and of the United States, seen as a symbol of welcome to immigrants arriving by sea .

The other commemorative item on my posting is a Statue of Liberty Plate produced by Pickard China in 1986. The master designer, John Lawson captures both the physical majesty and the aesthetic subtlety of this most imposing of statues.

These collector's items are quite special to me.  And, it is a little challenging to realize that I have had these for so many years, which means I have lived a lot of years!

I hope you enjoyed this little narrative.  I found the description of the chains quite fascinating and I did not remember that part.

I have always wanted to go to New York and Washington D. C. But probably will not ever get there.  However, I did get close when I had an opportunity through my employer to go for a few days for a conference. My home responsibilities interfered.  But, I have been blessed to have traveled to Germany for three weeks and England for many weeks.  I have found European travel (or most any place) very interesting and educational.

Are your bags packed?  Let's go somewhere!

Mary

White Dawn Climbing Rose

A couple years ago I bought and installed this trellis for support for my climbing rose - White New Dawn.

(advertisement photo)

A few months ago when it snowed it looked like this covered in it's winter coat.

And, look at it now.  Can you see all the blooming white roses behind the Blue Bottle Tree?  On the right of the rose the fence is covered with blooming Jasmine that covers about 20 feet at the property line and it is in full bloom right now.  It looks lovely and smells nice also!

The Daylilies are starting to bloom and here are a few that have just started to bloom.

I love being out in the garden so very much.  Even though I am always in some level of pain I have been able to do a little work in the garden.  I have been enjoying the hand watering that has to be done.  I am surprised how much I have been able to do! I am not able to do any raking and lifting the refuse into the trash barrels.  But, a little at a time and I have begun to see the results of my efforts. I always have to wear my back brace and my knee braces.  And, of course I always have to use Tylenol on a regular basis.  I have plastic chairs throughout the garden so I can sit down often when my body says stop for a few minutes.  I guess it is true that "When there is a will - there is a way".  It's a day at a time and sometimes it is a minute at a time!

Happy Day.  

Mary