LIFE CONTINUES...

 

...with some weekend left! It's been a relaxing weekend what with some busy weeks with the new showroom. Spring was on the way but then got derailed back with some cooler weather again...not to mention our family friend Garnet had a surprise birthday lunch and desserts for the Mother, who celebrated around trip around the globe. And she hates surprises.  The day started with me taking her for breakfast. Needless to say, I'm guessing she slept good last night after her libations all day. The garden crocus exploded but will last for how long is anyone's guess with the cooler weather is again. It's always the first sign of spring in my book. I did however get outside today for a nice little cleanup of leaves and felled branches...and see a few signs of spring. And some of the usual suspects.

The birthday location of the Mothers childhood friend. 

They have known each other since 4 grade!

 

At the Casa....I loved the sun beam illuminating these vases and vessels yesterday in the afternoon.

Now, is it happy hour yet?

WINTER SHADOWS

 It been another cold, cold weekend. I let Sophie out the other night around 1am and noticed these very cool, no pun intended, shadows from the tree branches cast on the back garden from the moon.

Today, nothing but sunshine, but deceiving. It's still only 23 degrees. But what a view out the middle bedroom windows!

The bluebirds have been out in force all week!!!! 

The hearted bird bath has been a favorite.

SNOW QUEEN

 

The Snow Queen finally visited!!! 

Yes, I'm happy! Mind you, our snow removal guy is out currently as he is getting a knee replacement. I suspect we got between 8-9". Nothing I couldn't handle. I love it. It peacefully, quiet, and not a sole on the road or to be seen. 

And yes! I did indeed take out some "refreshment" while shoveling!!!

Sophie went out numerous times, once even without her little coat. She dashed around a bit before having enough. Now she is out cold, sleeping. I already have a half day tomorrow. It's been a nice day all told, and now awaiting a New England Pot Roast to come out of the crock pot, with some red wine. Some candles lit. A beautiful card received yesterday made me smile from the wonderful Tundra Bunny, who also informed me she made a nice donation of a soft stretcher in Buster's memory to her local humane society.

 Isn't she sweet! 

USUAL SUSPECTS

It's been a while since we have seen some of the Usual Suspect out in the baren garden and grounds. I was able to finally get out yesterday, and a few times the last few weeks or so with the canon, while I collected many felled twig and branches, what with all the strong gales we've had lately. Not to mention the bird feeders are emptying quick this time of year. I have contemplated getting a heated bird bath, as many birds have a hard time finding a water source this time of year...but will not bite the bullet yet, not to mention I shut the outdoor water off in the winter. For now, I continue with my special mixture of bird seeds, dried fruit pieces and suet bricks. And a week had passed since any more carriage from the hawk. With the drab of winter, and no color at all. no life in the garden except for my rosemary for all things...it looks bleak. Thank heavens for the birds...they are adding the life currently...among others. So many too. They are others I couldn't get a snap of.

I love hearing the chipping of the Juncos.

I heard a new call this week I didn't recognize. Look everywhere till I finally spotted the suspect. Turns out it's a Yellow-Bellied Sap Sucker. Since then, I spotted a what might be a couple.

Meanwhile, speaking of perches...Sophie Lucille in one of her usual spots. I think she must adore the tree. She always lays on the end of the sofa next to the tree. I think she overheard me yesterday saying it will be coming down by week's end.

Thats right...breath it all in my child.....

USUAL SUSPECTS

 What with busy weekends and being away with travels, it's been a while since we have checked in with some of the usual suspects in the garden at the Casa du Borghese and the adjoining wood.  Still going through bird seed left and right. They must LOVE the special blend I get at True Value. I have also been seeing deer enter the yard in addition to the Red-Tailed Hawk being back and the white squirrel was seen again. Last week I was pottering around the garden when I heard a heck of a ruckus coming from behind me, only to find the hawk on the ground, with one of the squirrels in its clutches. Needless to say, the hawk has been catching a few birds and at least one chipmunk too. He's been seen every day this week, so I named him, Jabberwock. The only thing to come to mind to tell the usual suspects was from Alice in Wonderland- 

"Beware the Jabberwock my son! The jaws that bite, the claws that catch." 

Bouvier II

Carnage...Jabberwock got a garden mouse.

The first Balitmore Oriole I have ever seen around here.

A pileated Woodpecker. It looked huge!

More carnage....a small rabbit.

And my breakfast today! What weekends are for!