Deerkeys and an Impromptu Photo Shoot

In our area, there is suspected to be a mythical creature known as a "deerkey". This animal changes shape from a deer into a turkey and back. If you are out hunting for turkeys, it will take its form as a deer, and vice versa. We went out for a hike yesterday scouting for turkeys. Because we were just scouting, and not hunting yet, we saw the creatures in both forms. Next week when Nate goes out, they will all be in the form of deer.





Last week, we went for another hike with the dogs. The sunset was so pretty on the walkway, I just had to take some pics of the poodles. I have so many of them looking in every single direction BUT the camera! At least I got this one. This past week has been so nice and sunny and warm! April showers are coming for the next week, which is OK - we put in grass seed and peas, and I would like to see them come up soon!

My Pretties

Spring is showing her face again! I have been pestering Nate for some pussy willow branches for a couple of weeks now, but we haven't seen any that were easily attainable. Wednesday, we went up to my parents and I was able to spy some that were starting to blossom on the side of the road. On our way home, Nate cut me some, and I bought a flower arrangement at P&C. They are now set in sand and river stones - I really love the look, but there is too much going on in it. It needs to be simplified. Any suggestions?



The yellows by the sink were what was left of the arrangement that I didn't use in the above one. I like it. So nice and cheery!



The gerber daisies are enjoying some much needed growing light. I repotted them into their pot now which is a big teacup. Oh the amount of caffiene that would go into a cup like that!



Some of my seeds are starting to come up - thanks for the kick in the pants, Shell! I have been meaning to since February - but haven't taken the step. So far the mesclun, buttercrunch and brussel sprouts are up!

Our trip...

Last Wednesday, we went to Buffalo, then went on to Niagara Falls. On our way out we stopped at Montezuma Wildlife Refuge. The day was chilly and rainy, so we didn't see much. Once we got to the Canadian side of the falls, the sun came out, and we were able to walk around and see the rainbows. On our drive back Thursday, we went back through Montezuma as it was a much nicer day. Right now, the park is filled with migrating birds. We were able to watch this blue heron fishing at a distance of less than ten feet. So Cool! There are several pairs of bald eagles that nest there, but we only saw one in the distance. There were also coots and northern shovelers that I don't believe I have seen before.

Great Blue Heron


The Hunting Stance


Red-Winged Blackbird


Northern Shovelers


Red Squirrel


Coots


It was a great "weekend in the middle of the week." We had a blast!

Remembering Warmth

Flowers and Butterflies



Our favorite place to go in the summer


Beautiful Fall Days

Homemade Centerpiece

Rosehips


This fall I decided that I wanted to make my own wreaths. Before winter really sank in, on a cold and rainy day, I went out and hauled some grapevines off trees growing on our relative's property. While they were damp, I wrapped them up into wreaths, 2 small and 2 large. Earlier in the month, Nate had gone out and picked me some rose hips and pinecones - you can ask him what kind of trees they came from! :) Anyways, when they were dry, I made a wreath. The rosehips are wrapped around the wreath with wire, and the dried oranges and pinecones are placed on top - so they do fall off once in awhile! I love how it turned out! It is still on our table and will probably stay there for awhile! I didn't get a chance to make up the others, so those will be this coming year's project. Things got a little postponed trying to finish a commission by Christmas! More on that one later, though. Psyche entertains herself by biting the rosehips off their branches and watching them go flying! What a darling little MONSTER!






I love the light it gives off at night when the candle is lit!