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I'm a Canadian now residing in Sunny Arizona since 2002. Although I've been a city girl all of my life, I've always loved the country and the laid back life it offers. My love of the Outdoors, Animals,and Gardening comes from my mom Cecile, who loved her home in the country, but sadly passed away in 2005. I promised her I would grow a garden in her name, And I finally did, five years later. One of my best memories of her is how much she loved her garden. The glow on her face when she would show me something new, always creating a life with things she loved. She loved all animals. She taught me simplicity, to enjoy the small things, and see beauty in everything. Today I find myself doing the same things she did in her garden and in life. This blog was created to keep track of my projects and adventures. They may not all be successes, but my goal is to remain unintimidated by whatever engages my curiosity. I want to share this adventure with those who can appreciate the small things, the trial and errors, the simplicity in it all, but mostly,what my mom knew how to do best,just have FUN! *This blog is dedicated to her*

May 24, 2010

This was Supposed to be Host Plants

Mistaken Seed Order

Some time ago, when I was researching ways to attract butterflies in my garden I found an awesome organization dedicated to saving butterflies and their habitats. They were offering free packets of butterfly host plant seeds to encourage people to help protect them.
I couldn't wait for the frost to pass so I could plant my all my seeds in my garden.

As these plants grew they looked quite familiar but I couldn't tell yet since they were too small. But now I know. There was a mistake in the seeds they sent. Now I have about 10 plants of tomatoes growing with nearly 20 baby tomatoes so far! Oh well....looks like I will be giving out plenty of tomatoes very soon :D

Baby Bird Season


I am so glad to have these huge pine trees next to my home. There are so many birds in there, and lately more noise than ever, especially in the morning when all the little mouths are hungry.

I've noticed Doves,Grackle,Sparrows,Hummingbirds and various other black birds I cannot identify at this time.I am not sure which ones have nests up there. Hard to tell with all the commotion going on.

This is the time where babies take their first flight. Fledglings hopping around on the ground crying for food, Mommy birds feeding them and doing their best to keep them safe. This is such a fragile time for them. Each time I see one flying low to the ground I need to keep an eye on my dogs.

Since it's been extremely windy I was afraid to see fallen nests and babies, and sadly, I did. One baby that fell in my yard didn't make it. I am also irritated by neighboring cats who sneak up on these defenseless babies.

A little while back I noticed a hummingbird nest that was built on a pine cone! Unfortunately I couldn't take a closeup picture of it, but yesterday I found this same nest on the ground. I sure hope the babies made it out on time.
How amazing to see such a small and delicate piece of art. This time I had to take a closeup picture.
As the babies are finding their way, the mornings will get quieter...