Farewell September!

Maple tree across the pond beginning to turn yellow. In our area of many evergreens, the hardwoods (mostly maple and oak) always stand out with color.

Shiny dark polk berries. The plant was originally give to us from my in-laws who got the seeds from Arkansas where they used to live.

Virginia creeper crawling along the chicken yard/garden fence.

Two small pumpkins harvested off a volunteer plant.

Ornamental Peppers

The other day I purchased three ornamental pepper plants and planted them in a front flower bed. I love the bright orange, red, and purple colors of the peppers.

I've never grown any before and since none of the plants had any information tags on them, I did some research on the internet to see if the peppers were actually edible. I found that they are, though they are extremely hot! I don't 'do hot', but my dh loves hot and spicy, so I may experiment on him one of these days (giggle). Anyway, I thought they would add some nice fall colors to the landscaping.

September Moon

Last night the moon looked as big as life. I took this photo from our front porch. Looking at the calendar this morning, I see that tonight is the official 'Harvest Moon'.

Build a bouquet

Have fun creating a bouquet of flowers!

http://www.patswebgraphics.com/buildabouquet.html

Chance

Today we had to part with our beloved dog, Chance. He was a Flat Coat Retriever nearly 13 years old. We'd had him since he was a few weeks old. His health had been steadily going down hill for the last year, and this past week just reached the point of no return. He was always happy to see us, greeting us often with one of his smiles (something he inherited from his mother). He was a licker and would always catch us off guard with a slurpy kiss on the hand or wherever he could manage. We will miss you dear old friend. Thanks for the smiles and the memories. We will always love you!

You've come a long way

I love being surrounded by beautiful things. They don't have to be expensive, infact I would prefer them not so. I love to buy things second hand. These shoes, however, are new. I found them shopping the other day at a department store. Believe it or not, they are walking shoes! I purchased them with a sure feeling I would be much more inspired to walk that mile a day that I've been out of the habit doing. Now I have something pretty to wear and glance down at while walking the pavement. Though the camera captured the flower stitching as pink, it is actually done with white thread. Enlarge photo to see brand and details. Walking shoes: You've come a long way, baby!

Warming up

This morning while I was outside something caught my eye up on the chimney of our house. I went to get the camera, zoomed in as close as I could and got this photo. It is three English Sparrows warming themselves in the early morning sun. They are kind of fluffed out, as birds do, to stay warm. Aren't they cute?

A curious friend!

The other day I was out in one of our pine tree groves where I have a standing bird feeder and a bell-shaped bird treat hanging from a limb. The black-capped chickadees love both. Out of all the song birds around, they are the friendliest and most curious. I had my camera with me this time, and as I started talking to this little fellow, he actually hopped toward me for a closer look two different times, chattering all the while! I moved very slowly and got this photo of him. They are certainly among my favorites of wild birds.

A couple of weeks ago we had one in the garage and could not get him out for several hours. Finally he got out on his own.

Hibiscus

Recently I purchased two Hibiscus plants, one pink and one red. They've been sitting out by the fish pond in pots adding quite a splash of color. I need to get them planted soon, but have really enjoyed them on the patio for a while. I have never grown any before. I adore the tropical looking flowers! Do any of you have them in your gardens?

Autumn Seasonal Give-away

This is the month I will be hosting my Autumn Seasonal Give-a-way! The first one took place in June, as a summer give-away, and here it is time for the second one!

This time around, I will be doing things a little differently. It is a "sight unseen" gift box. :o) I can assure you it will be full of lovely little treasures symbolizing this most wonderful season of the year!

*Please respond to this post with a comment telling what one of your favorite things about autumn is.* This will put you in the drawing for a chance to win the gift basket. I will announce the winner on October 1st, and at that time share a photo of what has been won. Good luck everyone!

Happy Fall Y'all!

I'm back!

Hi my friends!

Goodness, I feel like I've been away for months! Finally our computer is up and running again.

I have missed you all, and missed reading about what has been going on in your worlds! It will probably take me a while, but I assure you I am looking forwarding to stopping by for a visit at each of your blogs soon!

We have been so busy! We finished our fish pond and waterfall and are now putting tile down on our kitchen counters. We are having a lot of fun (dh and I) as first time tilers. If it weren't so expensive, it could be terribly addictive!

I have been completely enjoying the month of September. The hummingbirds are sparse and I really think most of them have left for migration along with the buzzards. I have heard a hum (or buzz) or two lately and caught a glimpse of an Anna's hummer, so think we at least have our little winter resident. I HOPE! I really do love those little birds. The rest of the birds are getting spoiled already at the feeders. I've been photographing the different butterflies I see and am beginning a photo journal of all butterflies and birds that I encounter. I'm very excited about this hobby and know I will enjoy it for years to come. I will be posting some photos in the near future.

That's all for now. It's good to be back! :o) Blessings!