Finally! The Sun!

The girls were so happy to see the sun today! It has been raining or foggy for weeks! The girls and I walked around and observed different forms of moss and the birds at the feeder. The girls were so excited, they went in to have a beach party and lemonade stand!

Repelling and Fascinating

Old puffballs

Front Porch

I'm a Southern Girl. You can have your deck, but I'm all about my porch. Here are some shots from this afternoon.

October Garden

Late September and October is a good time in my garden. The cooler temperatures and autumnal rains bring about a late flush in the roses. I think this is my favorite time in the garden. I am able to (comfortably) enjoy the rewards for work done in the spring and early summer as well as enjoy the beauty in spite of my summer neglect!

Gulf Fritillary Larvae

I took these pictures about 2 weeks ago. These are Gulf Fritillary larvae. They were really enjoying my Passionflower leaves. I love Passionflowers! My dogs ensure the seed dispersal by carrying the fruits all over our yard.

Kaleyard

Yesterday, we visited a friend who is passionate about organic gardening. Her vegetable garden is truly inspiring. The best thing about the garden is the small children wandering down the flagstone path (with creeping blue star growing between the stones), picking tomatoes , carrots, and peas and popping them in their mouths like Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny!

This is the way to raise children to love vegetables. When the peas are sweet and the tomatoes are warm from the sun, who can resist? Nutmeg and I discovered carrot tops- they are delicious and, suprisingly, taste like the carrots themselves!
The twisted poles in the raised beds came from Gardeners Supply Company.
I have been inspired to plant a winter garden myself. This afternoon I planted kale and several lettuce varieties. I cannot wait to top potato soup with my own, fresh kale!

Nature Challenge #30 - Weeds and Seeds

The first time we tried Challenge #30, I picked wildflowers instead of weeds! I suppose that is a matter of choice... This time we have almost followed the rules - I suppose the ferns do not fall into either category!

Weed Seed - Extra points here!

Japanese Maple seed

Welcome!

I am really excited about Anna Comstock's Handbook of Nature and Harmony-Art Mom's Nature Challenges. I am inspired to look closer at the local beauty and appreciate nature, large and small. Because I am already cramming cross stitch and homeschool into The Striped Rose, I am beginning a new blogosphere journey for my nature wanderings. My husband will also be posting the pictures he takes while hiking and biking. I hope you enjoy this blog and are inspired to discover what is in your own backyard and beyond.