We realized that our new neighbors’ Chihuahua would be able to step through our fence’s nine inch openings.

This dragonfly enjoys the bug hunting afforded by our ponds.  Here he is pausing between strafing runs.

Carrie was in the Studio and I was nearby washing fishpond filters.  When I stopped spraying the hose, I heard an unfamiliar buzzing and looked up to see bees, lots and lots of bees, swarming in the pepper tree only 12 feet or so over my head.     I summoned Carrie.  We crouched on […]

Carrie has planted this year’s garden which included setting out newly sprouted plants as well as starting many from seed.  I think we have at least one of every herb and vegetable that will grow in Southern California. Carrie has followed previous years’ successful “Four-Square” farming approach in the garden layout. The beds are made […]

Hawks and falcons visit our backyard regularly.  Usually they come to drink from and bathe in the birdbath.  Today Carrie watched one having lunch. We have a couple of birdfeeders and bird baths that attract the usual suspects: wrens, finches, jays, doves, starlings, etc.  When the hawks or falcons arrive, everyone else leaves and stays […]