CiNdEeS' GaRdEn

A Bright Idea

2012-02-07T09:07:00.000-08:00

I found some old light bulbs, (they are large, about 12 inches tall.) and decided to try to make something out of them. I have seen them used as vases etc. I wanted to do something for Valentines Day.

I had a hard time trying to get the top off. It is ceramic. I finally decided I would need to drill it. So I got the ceramic drill bit on the drill and drilled away. Drill Baby, Drill...you know the saying...(-:

I bought the vintage valentine on eBay. I also got the rubber stamps on eBay and stamped my own tags. Amazing what you can find on that place. I typed in light bulb and *poof* there was a light bulb valentine just for me...(-: Of course waiting till it got here was hard because I couldn't do anything until I had that valentine in my hand. Then I got creative.(-:

I couldn't figure out how to stand the valentine up inside until my husband suggested sticking the pick of hearts in and glueing it to that. I decided glueing it to that would be to hard and came up with the shredded paper idea instead...but I did like his idea of the pick standing outside the light bulb. So...here is the finished project. Happy early Valentines Day!(-:

The tag says "You Light Up My Life" The other one is a picture of a light bulb incase you can't see it.(-: Of course you can click on the pictures to make them bigger if you want too(-:

Bird Nest

2012-01-15T15:39:00.001-08:00

When I saw these on another blog I knew I had to have one of my own. Well it took a while to get the welder and all the stuff together but its done now and I am very happy(-: Thanks to my husband for welding it together for me. I made the barbed wire nest. Got the pliers at Harbor Freight cheap. Everything should rust up in no time. Aren't they just a cute little family?(-:

HaPpY nEw YeAr!

2012-01-01T07:37:00.001-08:00

Wishing you all the best in 2012!!!!!

Santa Came

2011-12-31T17:32:00.000-08:00

Me and Jack were kickin' back,
Asleep for that matter,
When all of a sudden,
We awakened to a clatter.

A loud roar,
And a Whir,
And a buzzing we heard,
We jumped up from our slumber
Not saying a word.

We went to the door,
O.K. so we ran,
We opened the door,
And there stood, "The Man."

Craftsman that is,
Brand spankin' new,
Loaded too.
Ready to roll.

Thanks Santa!(-:

Pictures not taken till after I mowed the lawn...(-:

Shade Bed

2011-11-27T10:34:00.001-08:00

Well here it is...
You will have to take my word for it, that it is MUCH better in person. The pictures don't do it justice at all.(-: I am happy with it, so that is the main thing right?(-:

Leaves are everywhere and no time to rake...hopefully we get a strong wind to blow them away...lol(-:

Have a great week!
~Cindee

New Fan Flower

2011-11-25T10:59:00.000-08:00

This one is from an OLD boxfan I had as a kid growing up. Super heavy duty! It was discarded at my Dads. So I dug it out of it's retirement and had my brother help me get it out of the box.
I had to drill out the center so I could mount it on the pole. Piece of cake? Well not really. It took a long time to drill it out. (-:
They use to make things better back in the old days...(-: Everything was metal and steel. No plastic, pieces of junk back then...(-: This thing wouldn't have fallen over in a wind storm.(-: I knew I wanted to make this last summer but I didn't have time to do it. So glad I had a few days off this week(-:
It's finally all done and up in the back yard.(-: I might add some leaves at a later date. Not sure.
Enjoy!

Owl Visit

2011-11-24T20:32:00.000-08:00

I saw my friend today. He was taking a nap in a nearby pine tree. He did not mind a quick photo session. It was a nice Thanksgiving gift for me!(-: I love seeing him! He is so beautiful.

Great Horned Owl Visit

2011-11-21T21:57:00.000-08:00

I was watching Dancing With The Stars and all of a sudden I heard a loud bang. A great horned owl had flown into the sliding glass door after the parakeet who sits by the door. It was pretty exciting. It is a young owl and I am hoping it was my little friend from last Spring. He sure was sweet.

WE had a little talk about why he should not try to catch my parakeet.(-:

He seemed to understand...(-:

Letting Go...)-:

He left me a little present to remember him by...(-:

New Ball

2011-11-20T13:30:00.001-08:00

I finally had some time to work on my ball. I found the metal strapping, cut it, drilled holes and bolted it together. I wish I could weld but this is the next best way for me to get it made. It was pretty simple to do. Basically like doing the bigger balls out of the wine barrel rings except this time I had to cut the strapping and bolt it together.

Leaves Have Taken Over My Yard

2011-11-19T08:44:00.001-08:00

I guess I know what I will be doing this week(-:

New Sunface

2011-11-18T17:08:00.000-08:00

Early Christmas Gift from my brother(-: It is a huge...5 feet! Totally awesome and I love it!

I am still working on the bed. It's about done though. A few more shades and it should be ready for a photo(-: I have found some reallyyyyyy awesome shades. For one-two dollars each.(-: I have had way to much fun shopping for them and seeing peoples faces when I ask how much they want for a shredded/torn lamp shade. They probably think I am nuts.(-:
It has been very entertaining.

I am off for a week from school for Thanksgiving break. I will still work at my other job as usual but at least I won't have two jobs to go to(-:

My family will be coming to join us for dinner so it should be a real fun feast.

I hope you are all enjoying your last few weeks of the year!(-: The time sure has flown by huh? Amazing!

Have a great weekend! ~Cindee

New Project in the Works

2011-11-04T08:31:00.000-07:00

No pictures yet though. Hope it works out because I am excited to get it all finished. Rain is in the forecast, so not sure I can work on it this weekend.

I am copying an idea I saw on The Creative Gardener
Thanks Jacque for the inspiration(-:

I am putting this into my old bed frame and calling it a "Shade Bed."(-:
What do you think of that idea?(-:
My husband didn't think it was a good idea. He thought it was fine the way it was. He just has no imagination.(-: I think it will be fun.

I got the very old box springs from my dad. With the help of my husband, adding extra wood to the frame to accommodate it, it was laid to rest in it's final resting spot. It even has the price tag still on it!

Like I said...real old. Imagine sleeping on it! (-:

Anyhow, now I am going to add the "shades" to the bed. I had a hard time finding just the right way to set them in the ground. I tried rebar but I decided that was to thick. So I am going with a 1/4" steel rod from Lowes that will eventually rust to perfection! You will have to use your imagination here.(-: Hopefully it all works and I can get some pictures soon! Wish me luck!

Incase you were wondering...
I found the lampshades at thrift stores and the Salvation Army for 1.00- 2.00 each depending on how messed up they were. I am sure the people were wondering why I wanted a ripped up shade. If they only knew...(-: I had a blast looking for them and then stripping off the fabric. It was actually fun. I keep looking for special shades to add to the collection.

Have a great weekend!

Fan Flower Finished

2011-10-09T16:49:00.000-07:00

Well I added a row of mirrors to the original and grouted it all in. I think it looks way better and I am happy now(-: You can see the original one in the picture below(-: I am glad I went ahead and did it even though I had to stand on a ladder 10 feet off the ground...lol At least I am statisfied with it now and I will be able to move on to another project.
Hope you all have a wonderful week! We are getting some rain here tomorrow I guess. Yay.(-:

Fan Blade Flower

2011-10-07T09:01:00.001-07:00

Decided to do a mirror mosaic for the first fan blade flower I made. I am not sure if I like it. I wish I would have made the mosaic bigger. I used a 8 inch mirror to mosaic on instead of a 10 inch one. Going to Michaels today. I will get a 10 inch mirror and make another one to see if I like it better. I will post a picture if I do(-:

Happy Rock Face

2011-09-22T22:39:00.000-07:00

Do you see the happy face in the rock? It is a very special rock indeed. I found this one last weekend at the creek while searching for rocks for my rock path. Of course I had to grab it(-: We finished a big exercise pen for the dogs and a lovely rock pathway to it. It was a huge project but I am very happy with how it turned out.
Usually I let Jack run around in the yard when I am outside, but when my granddog visits he is not a stay by your side type of dog. He likes to RUN and run fast. Our yard is not fenced. So the reason for the exercise pen is really for him. We now call it the "Dog Park."
Gus knows what a dog park is because his Mom takes him to the one in town quite often. So he is going to love his very own dog park at Grandmothers house(-:

Here is a picture of the new Dog Park Walk(-:

I plan to add some annuals around the walkway next Spring. For now its basically going to stay the way it is until I decide what else to add to it. I hope everyone has a wonderful Friday! I know I will!(-:

Added A Little Bling

2011-09-20T08:58:00.000-07:00

Morning Sun

2011-09-10T08:11:00.000-07:00

Enjoy your Saturday! I will be working outside as long as I can. Suppose to be 105 degrees today! Fall... hurry up and get here!!!

End of Summer Craziness(-:

2011-09-05T21:00:00.000-07:00

Squirrel taking a look around the tree to see if the turkeys left yet(-:

Weird time to have a new bunch of baby turkeys but they did and they have brought them over for a visit and of course to eat the seed I put out(-:

A new project. I made these out of the wire basket thing that goes into the canning pot. I used wire to wire them to rebar and I cut off the handles and bent them onto the rebar for leaves. I posted the before and after picture below.

The handle

The wire "basket" thing that the jars sit on when inside the canning pot.

The finished flowers were hard to get a good picture of. The sun was shining but they are wire so it didn't show up well in any of the pictures I took. I guess you will have to use your imagination(-: They do look cute around my tree though(-:

My Dad helped weld this huge heavy D8 CAT fan onto a poll so I could put it in my garden. I am sure he thinks I have lost my mind but I think it looks awesome(-: Thanks to my husband and my Dad for all that hard labor. Getting it set into the hole and cementing it in was a breeze compared to that. It was a hot day and I think we all got a little dehydrated from that experience(-:

Hibiscus

2011-08-11T08:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterdays hibiscus was called 'Luna Pink Swirl' Disco Belle Hibiscus. This one I am not sure but it is also Disco Belle variety. (-: Hopefully tomorrow Lord Baltimore will be open(-: He is a very deep red(-:

Is It Really August?

2011-08-09T22:14:00.000-07:00

Time has just flown by! My summer job is ending and I am returning to my regular job this Friday! It has all gone by in a blur! I barely have time to get things ready for the week and, bam... it's the weekend again! Then I have to start everything all over!
I hope you are having a wonderful summer and enjoying the blooms!

Well this week I have hibiscus blooming so I had to share one with you.

Spiders in the tree.
They don't bite!(-:

Old shoe

Beach garden

Agapanthus

New Mushrooms

2011-07-25T18:27:00.000-07:00

I got a coupon online for 10.00 off a purchase of 10.00 so off I went to find something to spend it on. I found these cute little mushrooms. On sale to boot! I spent 15.00 for the both of them. They are heavy ceramic. If you want to run over to Pier 1 they may have some more for you. Heres a coupon just in case...(-:

Monday in the Garden

2011-07-25T04:28:00.000-07:00

Except I took these on Sunday afternoon(-: The sun was so bright and warm I thought it would make the pictures look nice.

July 24th

2011-07-24T09:58:00.000-07:00

It is another beautiful day here! Loving the nice days!

Of course what would summer be without the bottle tree?(-:

Oh and of course the beautiful forever blooming pan flowers!

Even the fish are smiling!

I am loving how this is filling in! I think I will move this out of the frost danger this winter so the Echeveria will not fry. Some people in zone 9 have no problem with these but for some reason here, we must have a cold air pocket.

Pan Flowers

2011-07-21T08:43:00.000-07:00

I got the flowers "planted" on Sunday but it was to late to take pictures. I am having problems getting a good picture because when I think about going out there to take a picture it's either dusk or dawn. LOL Hopefully I can remember to take some pictures this afternoon when the sun is shining in that spot! Until then you will have to imagine how they look in the sunshine(-:

Directions:
Conduit Pipe from Home Depot/Lowes etc. 2.00 for a 10 foot piece. I bought three. I used two and a half. I have extra for next project that way(-:

I cut the pipe with a hack saw the length I wanted it.
Then I drilled holes in the conduit pipe and holes in the pans. I put the holes close to the curve of the pan so it would not show as much when mounted on the pole except for the newest pan I put the hole in the middle...just for fun(-:
I hammered the pipes into the ground where I wanted them to be.
Then attached with a bolt/nut/washer(-: Super simple.(-:
July 22, 2011 8:50 PM

Mystery Plant

2011-07-17T07:42:00.001-07:00

Does anyone know what this is? It is growing in a pile of brush. Actually there are two of them. One is not blooming yet. I saw this the other day on my walk so this morning I took my camera. It is sticky/fuzzy like a rudbeckia. It smells. Not bad just not a good smell. The flowers are star shaped. I was thinking a Nicotiniana. It gets no water and is growing in the hot dry sun. (-:

Here is what it looks like today! This just amazes me. Usually I am dying of heat and so ready for fall I can hardly wait. This is the nicest weather I can remember in 20 years! It is awesome!

Summer Daze

2011-07-16T09:26:00.001-07:00

This summer is flying by, like the speed of light. I am working this summer which is totally weird to me since I have not worked in the summer since before I had my daughter. She is 24 now! Wow the years fly by! Its amazing!
Anyhow, this summer I was asked to help out at my husbands office so I said I would. Even though it's only part time it takes the whole day! By the time I get ready for work...go to work and then get home, the day is mostly over. It puts a damper on my gardening to say the least!

The weather has been totally awesome though, and I am enjoying my flowers more then ever before. They seem to love the cool weather. Well really who doesn't???(-:
Usually at this time of the year it is in the mid 100's. This time though we are in the 80's! It is so nice. Next week the weather will be 90+ degrees and then of course I am sure it will be 100+ again! I need to get out and enjoy it while I can!

Another thing I did this year that has SAVED the flowers is I bought several soaker hoses and spread them through the flower gardens. I turn them on and let the roots get a good drink each day. They get hit by the sprinklers everyday too, but its not enough obviously! Usually,it is extremely hot and dry here. We also have huge trees in the yard that suck up every form of moisture available! I wouldn't have it any other way though. The trees are a life saver for sure! They really cool things off during our long hot summers! The raking in the fall is an adventure, but when I think of how hot it was here when we first built our house, I always feel thankful we planted them!

So anyhow without anymore more explanations here is whats is going on in my garden!!!!

This is a new project. More Pan Flowers. I have been rusting up the two and I just got the other one yesterday at the Salvation Army. I drive right by there everyday on the way to and from work. I have been stopping in once a week to check on what they have. Now I need to get some conduit pipe to finish these flowers up(-: I will post pictures when they are all mounted and standing proudly!

Flea Market Gardening Summer 2011 Magazine

2011-07-08T21:42:00.000-07:00

A Big Thanks To Anna Flowergardengirl for adding me to her Flea Market Gardening Magazine! What an honor(-:
There are a lot of great pictures and stories to view in this magazine. You will enjoy it I'm sure.
Click below to view:
Flea Market Gardening Summer 2011 Magazine

SUNday Pictures

2011-06-19T09:34:00.001-07:00

The tinpan flowers are blooming(-: I took a few shots of them since they are so beautiful(-:

Mr. Piggy planter. Right now he has a ghost fern growing in him. Which reminds me I have to move him out of the sun. Tomorrow the temps go up!

I love this plant! Cupids Dart. I risked moving it and so far so good. I bought it at my daughters FFA plant sale, lets see, over 6 years ago! Wow its doing great!

Well Mr. Fisherman says its a good time to throw a line in the pond. He is always in style with his rusty fishing gear. The hair is not so stylin'. I think he needs to visit a barber in the near future.(-:

I pruned the hedge yesterday. It looks so nice when it's all trimmed up(-: It grows so fast though! I could actually prune every week! I try to do it every two weeks otherwise it is a real job!

With A Heavy Heart

2011-06-16T08:32:00.000-07:00

I put on my shoes and headed off to the wooded area where the owlets live yesterday evening, only to be greeted by this...

I was instantly saddened to think I had lost a dear friend. I then began searching for my owlet and located him in another area he frequents. He then flew back over to the tree where the carcus was. He sat for me for a few photos before flying off again. It was time for his dinner. I am glad he is still with me, but sad that he lost his sibling.)-: RIP dear owlet!

Enjoying the Garden

2011-06-15T05:32:00.000-07:00

I love to just sit and relax in my garden. Especially when I can hear the fountains(-: The hollyhocks are putting on a awesome show now. They are huge! My favorite re-do is the fish pond still, so I had to share that again(-: I really like it!
The little cream separator is filling in well too(-: I hope you are all getting a chance to enjoy your gardens!

Clouds

2011-06-14T06:18:00.000-07:00

I thought this was an interesting cloud formation! I took this picture on Sunday evening.
It has been a lot warmer. Summer has arrived here! I am happy, but then again I hate when that heat hits, because that means the flowers are fighting for their lives! Water, Water, Water!!!!

1st Rattlesnake of the Season

2011-06-10T16:47:00.001-07:00

My granddog alerted to this snake while we were outside this afternoon. Lucky thing he was on his leash. Jack was not. I had to calmly call him over to me and get them out of the area before I could go back and get the snake. Jack would want to shake it. Lucky for me it all worked out.

Is Winter Finally Over?

2011-06-07T06:38:00.001-07:00

The weather man thinks so!
I love the rain, but its been raining forever! It has also been cold! I have been wearing a coat to walk the dogs and or a sweatshirt most of the time. So strange. The plants love it though! They have grown so much. Now I just need to see flowers! Of course this means I need to do some serious mowing! The grass loved the rain too!

Yup you guessed it...more owlet pictures!

2011-05-24T08:50:00.001-07:00

Yesterday evening after I got off work, I ventured out to where my owlets are living. They have new digs across the road.
Not many years ago the property was owned by my dad, but he sold it. Now it belongs to a yet to be built, industrial park.)-: Eventually, there will be more traffic and more humans in the area. I guess it's good for the owls to get use to all that, so they can adapt.(-:

The two owlets which I think are female seemed to be much more concerned about my recent visit. They flew off after I approached them. Although, it could be because they were on the ground.
The third one which I believe is a male, was not in sight so I had to do a little looking around for him. He was there in a nearby tree watching me.(-:

Why do I feel the other two are female? Well in the past, with the other nesting owls, the female always seemed more flighty. The male would sit on a branch and look at me. The females are also bigger then the males. It's just my opinion and I could be wrong but, I am going to think that for now(-:

Flowers and Stuff

2011-05-22T17:11:00.000-07:00

I thought you might like to see more then just owlets! (-: SO here is whats happening in my gardening today...

The fish tub.

Flowers my brother made me for Mothers Day(-:

Scentimental Rose

Pretty Red Roses and behind that is the Mock Orange. It has been blooming for several weeks this year!

Peonies! They look so beautiful!

My treasured fan blade flower(-:

Dainty Bess rose.

Betty Boop rose.

The ivy bed/pillows I planted is growing well! There is always more going on here but I picked out what I thought was the best for today(-:

Owlet Visit

2011-05-21T21:21:00.000-07:00

The owlets have flown across the road but I can still walk over and see them and they seem to accept it o.k. I went over this morning before the sun came up to visit with them for a bit and take some new pictures for you.(-: I miss having them in my yard but at least they are still close(-: They are growing up so fast! They are so fun to watch(-:

Double Yolk Egg

2011-05-15T09:37:00.001-07:00

Today I gathered the eggs and was happy to find a double yolk egg! It came in handy to use in my pizza pocket bread dough(-: Thanks Girls!

More Fun With Owlets

2011-05-14T07:28:00.000-07:00

Another reason to wake up each morning...(-:
I am loving these three. I don't want them to ever leave(-:

I know they will eventually go though.

They are so fun to see sitting way up in the old pine tree(-:

It is a real treat!

Speaking of treats...Here's one you will enjoy...(-:

Owl pellets...it's what's for breakfast...lol(-: I added the chicken egg for comparison.

Owlet Rescue

2011-05-08T07:56:00.001-07:00

Well the owlet that was separated in another tree decided to try to make a flight over to be with his siblings. He didn't make it and landed in the grass. I decided to help him out.

Cutest little critter I have ever seen(-:

It was so amazing to be able to hold him(-:

What a sweet little bird(-: Their feathers are so soft and thick(-: Very strong feet!

Happy to be getting a lift up to a branch(-:

Goodnight Owlet...see you in the morning!(-:

Yay, he made it up the tree. He is the one on the left. Now they are all together...for now(-: The mom was in the three to the left when I got there. I bet she is having a great mothers day...those little owlets eat a lot of mice a day! On one site it says 13-17 per owlet between the age of 3-4 weeks! An adult owl eats about 4 mice per day. Hungry little critters! Nice that they are here and cleaning up the mice population(-:

Fertilizer Friday

2011-05-06T01:09:00.000-07:00

I think this is the first one for me this year!
Actually a lot is blooming here this week. The crab apple is about done though. It was beautiful and it smelled heavenly(-: I didn't take a picture of it though. You will have to use your imagination(-:
We are getting the veggie garden planted this weekend!
Lets take a stroll around the yard shall we?

Clematis blooming on the waterbed pond headboard.

Clematis on the footboard

Another look at the waterbed pond.

George Burns Rose

I can't start the new season without changing the fish pond.

Pretty Yellow Rose

Poker Plants

Pink Poodle Rose

I bought some new geraniums and I also over wintered the other ones from last year in my garage! They survived! No blooms on them yet though. They were pretty happy to see the sun! I am sure they will be blooming soon though. Maybe next week! Which reminds me I do need to fertilize them(-: Thanks for reminding me Tootsie(-:
Have a wonderful weekend!

There are three Owlets

2011-05-05T08:51:00.001-07:00

Last night...

Yesterday when I got home I went out to see the owlet with my son. Well he spotted another one in another tree. The first owlet had moved the day before to another pine tree. So I didn't even notice a second owlet in the other pine tree. I wasn't looking for two! Well last night I went to show my husband the other owlet and he spotted a third one! It was just like Christmas time! I was so excited that they had three! Where they were hiding before no one knows, but probably in the general area. They are sneaky little critters! Anyhow, they are reunited...almost. Two are sitting together but the third one is still in another tree. Are they just the cutest little birds you have ever seen or what?(-:

This morning...

Great Horned Owlet

2011-04-26T21:44:00.001-07:00

Great Horned Owl in a nearby pine tree. Not sure if male or female. I could not get close enough to tell. I am thinking it is the male though.

This is the momma owl watching closely over her owlet.

Owlet

I was so excited today to see this little owlet up close and personal after I noticed his mother in an oak tree. She was calling to him and I took a look around and found him sitting on a low branch. He seemed fine so I was happy(-: I am very happy to know that they were so close to me this whole time and I never saw them. They were nesting in a few trees over from the pine tree where they were last year. I have been looking for them but have not found their nest until now(-: I see and hear them every night though. I actually thought they were nesting out of my area. So funny how sneaky they are.

Just The Right Shade

2011-04-09T15:44:00.001-07:00

The inspiration lamp shade:
This shade is for sale online for 59.99. Ouch!

Well... after much fretting I finally found a way to get the color I wanted for the shade. It's called Tulip Fabric Spray Paint in Sunshine Yellow.(-:
Yes, I did try the dye but being a very cheapo Wal Mart shade it would not absorb the color. I was pretty disappointed and thought I would never get it right! But, (I never give up you know) I decided to try the fabric spray paint and it worked! So in case you want to try this yourself don't be afraid to get the spray and spray away. It's worth the extra couple bucks and of course I used a 40% off coupon from Michael's for the paint(-:

Now, for the trim. I bought a 5/8 inch black velvet ribbon to glue onto the shade. I bought some Aleenes Tacky Glue to hold it. I am so excited with the results so far. (-:

I think this will work just fine and only cost me 11.88 per shade and of course the 4.00 paint... with the 40% off coupon... a bottle spray paint.(-: The trim ribbon was 3.00.(-:

I better get this finished up asap because my daughter will be here in 3 1/2 hours. Its a surprise for her new home(-: Hope she likes it(-:

Need Help Finding "Lemon" Yellow Lamp Shades

2011-04-07T06:33:00.000-07:00

I thought I would post this here for my dear readers. Maybe you guys might know where I can find lamp shades in a lemon yellow?
Like this one
My daughter is looking for them and I told her I would look too but there are none! I have seen pictures on line but none for sale! I have seen where I could make some but I have never done that before so wanted some ideas or suggestions from someone first before I atempt it(-: Thanks in advance for all your help!!!!!

A New Chapter Begins

2011-04-05T20:20:00.000-07:00

My daughter and her boyfriend found a place this past week and moved out on Sunday. Their place is so beautiful and she has it very nicely decorated with all brand new furniture. Long time readers may recall that she came home after her and her husband separated and was her for 2 1/2 years. She met her current boyfriend, whom we all love, and are very happy they are making a new life together.(-: So that left me with my room back to redecorate with all that stored stuff! It was like Christmas for me today as I pulled each treasured item out of the boxes(-:
I am so happy for my daughter that she is happy! I know she will have challenges ahead of her as we all do but at least she has a great guy to work through them with! And... I will see her everyday she works because she will bring my granddog over for me to watch. They only live 5 minuets away! She and her boyfriend both work 12 hour shifts and that is to long to leave the dog, so I suggested she drop him off on her way to work. That way she won't have to worry about him and either will I(-: It will be fun for me and Jack to have him back a few days a week(-:
I am looking forward to Spring Break in three weeks! I have lots of projects I want to get started! I am happy to say Spring has finally sprung here!

Another Mirror Mosaic

2011-03-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

This one I did for my daughters/guest room. My daughter moved home you may recall(-: Although, she does plan to move out again in the near future, so the room will be all mine again(-: I will be happy for her this time around(-: Last time I was not so happy as some of you may recall. But, everything does work out in the end, so in case you are doubting things, don't worry because it will all work out eventually!
Anyhow, this window I made into a picture before. I embroidered a flag and a saying to go along with the flag and put it where the window panes would go. It was nice but I got tired of it and thought I would re do it with the mirrors. I am glad I did because I like it much more now(-:

Where Is Spring?

2011-03-22T08:13:00.001-07:00

It hailed here yesterday! Not just a little bit, but a huge amount! It was all white outside! I took this picture of the bird feeder so you could see the size of the hail! It is unusual at anytime, let alone Spring! We normally do not get hail here. Since Friday, it has hailed several times around town! This was the first hail that hit my yard!
Then in Maxwell, California there was a tornado! All very strange for this area of CA. It is cold. I mean we have had to have a fire to heat the house and here it is the middle of March! By now, we usually have mostly sunny days, and wonderful planting weather. Hopefully soon it will happen, because this gardener is going crazyyyyyyy(-:
Since I am stuck inside, I decided to make another mirror mosaic window. I am about 1/3 of the way done. I will post pictures when it's finished(-:

A Heads Up!...Have I lost My Head?

2011-03-09T07:07:00.000-08:00

Last week I was at Ross and they had a ton of ceramic pots for great prices! Lots of different sizes and shapes and colors! I didn't get one though. I thought about it and thought I better stick with what I found instead...Yup you guessed it...

There was only one left... 8 bucks...well no one could pry it out of my hands if they tried...(-:

Project Done

2011-03-06T16:08:00.001-08:00

Well this is it. I made "pillows" for my bed...(-: It isn't looking so great right now because of just being planted but hopefully when Spring gets here things will start growing! I will have to take more pictures then(-:

New Project

2011-03-05T09:59:00.000-08:00

For this project I am using "almost" all recycled/free materials(-: The old 2X4's were from my kids playhouse years ago. When we tore it down I stacked all the wood to be used for projects at a later date. I knew I would find a use someday.(-: Anyhow, I cut them with the power saw into 24", 18" and 12" pieces. What will they make?
I also had the old wood bowl that is going to be perfect to complete the project! I will let you see when its all finished(-: Hopefully tomorrow(-: Until then you can let your imagination run wild...LOL(-:

One of My Owl Neighbors

2011-03-02T08:45:00.001-08:00

He was sitting outside in the oak tree. So I had to sneak up on him and take his picture(-: He wasn't looking at me so I could not get his face. Maybe next time(-:

Clouds

2011-02-27T04:15:00.000-08:00

I took these last Thursday. The sky was so many different colors of grey/blue. It was hard to capture a picture of it but it was very pretty. You will have to take my word for it(-:
So... the storm that was suppose to come never really showed up. We had some sleet and a lot of rain but not the 6" of snow that they were predicting. Which made me happy because all the daffodils would have been flattened!
I am ready for Spring! All I can think of is flowers, flowers, and more flowers!!!
Oh and a happy thought, only 14 days till daylight savings time! Yay! More time in the evening for working outside! Now I know that made your day!

Mirror Window Finished

2011-02-26T12:03:00.000-08:00

Updated 2/27/11 New photo of this mornings sun shining on the mirror(-:

I finally got it done today. It actually tried to snow last night. Today it was clear and cold! I went out and washed the mirrors and got it all cleaned up. It is so sparkly! I am so happy!
I am going to get some silk ferns to fill the window box. I think it would finish it all off really well instead of the netting. What do you think?

To see how the window looked before I added the mirrors go here

Project Before the Grout

2011-02-23T08:29:00.001-08:00

Decided to hang the window before grouting because it's so heavy already and also because I didn't want to accidentally mess it up somehow when I was moving it around etc. I am happy with the result so far. It really does reflect the garden and the surrounding "junk" well(-: I don't have the shower pond cleaned up, or anything else for that matter, so I didn't take an over all shot of the area. Hopefully... we get some sunshine and nice days to get things looking better! I hope to have it grouted soon! I am really excited to see it finished!
Of course I already do love it!!!!! It really changes that dark corner of the garden(-: It will be fun to see how the shower pond reflects off the mirrors when it's going!

Mosaicing Monday

2011-02-21T08:03:00.001-08:00

Thats what I am doing! A huge 4X4 window frame! Ugh! Why?
It is taking 126 hand cut little mirrors per window pane!(-: I am on my third window pane. Hope to finish up this week! Stay tuned for pictures!(-:

Eye'm Watching You

2011-02-18T21:54:00.000-08:00

Another one of those things nature shares. If you look close it almost seems the Eyeball Tree has a few Styes. (-: Poor thing probably needs a visit with the doctor. (-:

After The Big Wind And Rain Storm

2011-02-16T08:25:00.001-08:00

We had a beautiful crisp morning! I couldn't wait to get a couple pictures(-:
Now if only it could last for a while(-:

Rock Hunt

2011-02-08T08:23:00.001-08:00

I added this to show the size of the rocks. They are large rocks. About 40-60+ pounds each. It was a nice workout that's for sure...(-:

These rocks are being used for rock planters around my trees. I was very happy to find so many with Lichen(-: The planters are not planted yet of course but they are filled with my lovely homemade dirt and ready to roll(-: I can't wait till Spring planting time(-:

Please ignore the leaves etc. I am working on getting things cleaned up(-:

A Valentine Tree

2011-02-07T00:00:00.000-08:00

Ready to carve initials in(-:
Amazing what nature can create!!!!(-: I have walked by this tree for a year and never noticed this until Saturday. I thought it was cool and had to share(-:

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Mosaic Ball Finished

2011-02-06T07:56:00.001-08:00

I started this ball 3 years ago and lost interest due to other things going on at the time. I decided to get it finished this week. I am glad I did.(-: Now to find a stand to for it(-:

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Daffodils

2011-02-05T08:12:00.001-08:00

Had to share the daffodils this morning. Jack was his uncooperative self as usual(-: A rosebush grabbed my leg and left a mark and I dropped the eggs I was carrying...all for the sake of getting a picture...lol(-:

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Winter Thoughts

2011-02-04T06:49:00.000-08:00

Got up early yesterday and made some blueberry muffins. I had never made them before and supposedly they were a hit at my husbands office(-:
As you might recall I am on a sugar free diet so they were not something I could eat.)-: They smelled so good though. But, I refrained from eating even one bite!

Also yesterday, I shoveled two garbage cans of loam and unloaded it into an area I was filling in to plant some grass. Lets just say I worked my A$$ off!
After I put the rocks down for the new pathway and the around the tree planter last month, there was a depression in the ground that remained around the rocks.
I use to have it all filled in with pinecones around the tree, but removed them last year and had never filled in the area. So at least that project is done and I can get busy on something else(-:

There is always something to get started on right? (-: Working in the garden keeps my mind off sweets and my body working out and getting in shape(-: It's a win win situation(-:

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Mossy Walk

2011-01-30T17:41:00.000-08:00

A nice day for a walk today. Lots of moss, lichen and fungus.(-:

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As We Wind Down This Month

2011-01-27T06:31:00.001-08:00

We are closer to gardening, lake trips, sun and fun! I myself am looking forward to some fun, I am sure you are too(-:

How are those New Years Resolutions working for you?

Hmmmmm.
Well I am still on track! I have lost 10 pounds and still need to drop another 10 but I am working on it! Walking and doing the Stair Stepper daily. I won't talk about dieting because that is a sore subject(-: I was told I need to cut out sugary treats and watch my carb intake as well. I was eating way to much and of course that doesn't go over to well with someone who is a sugaraholic(-: My sugar level was inching closer to a pre diabetic condition so I had no choice. So now I am eating more carefully(-: Hopefully the next visit to the vampires will show me back in a normal range(-: Actually, I do feel better. Not as tired! The sugar was a problem. I sure do miss it though!

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Whooooo's There?

2011-01-22T19:37:00.000-08:00

Tonight's picture was taken from about 4 feet away. Seems Mr. Owl is not affraid of us anymore(-: I don't think he ever was. Not sure if it's a he or she but going to call him Al cuz it seems to fit(-:

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My Screech Owl Neighbor

2011-01-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

Isn't this just about the cutest little owl you have ever seen?(-:
I waited outside till it got dark for him to pop out and get his picture. Sure enough as soon as it was dark enough he poked his head out. I took about 6 pictures and this one turned out the best(-: I am thrilled that he/she is living there so close to my house. Its a total thrill! I hope there is a mate close by and they have a family! Anyhow had to share this new picture with you!

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Sunwheelflower~Fertilizer Friday

2011-01-13T16:06:00.000-08:00

I am adding to my post...(-: And believe me this is about all that is blooming here. LOL Its been cold and raining for quite a while. I did hear today was suppose to be clear and sunny. It's still dark out so I can't tell. I sure hope it is!!!
Happy Fertilizer Friday!!!
Be sure to clicky here to see all the other wonderful posts at Tootsies(-:

And... yes it is my BiRtHdAy!!! I hit the BIG 50! I can't believe it! Yikessssssss(-:

Geez, the yard looks terrible this time of the year. Everything is dead but at least I have my garden junk to keep me happy.(-:
I just finished this "sunwheelflower." You can see it's made out of an old bike wheel/tire that I mounted on an old piece of rusty pole.
I then drilled holes in it and added the leaves, which I cut out of old rusty tin roofing material. I used barbed wire untwisted for the stems.
I drilled holes in the leaves and threaded the wire through to hold them on to the "stem".
No glue or welding required!(-: Super easy and fun project(-:

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Bald Eagle Dies In Fight For His Life

2011-01-10T16:53:00.000-08:00

This was an amazing day to get to witness nature up close and personal.

I actually live in the city but it borders the country. It use to be more country but of course the city has moved closer to us.
Yesterday I was raking leaves and heard screeching and looked up in the sky over my house and there were two bald eagles flying over. I thought about the chickens briefly and ran to get the camera. By the time I got outside they were gone. I see them flying around at times but never over my house like that. It was pretty cool!
So today I went for a walk with my sister in law and the two dogs. We took our regular walk and were catching up with each other. She has been staying up here and going to nursing school, but was on break since before Christmas.
Anyhow, we were walking down the field and I was telling her about last week finding a bawling cow that had lost it's calf. We looked and looked for the calf last week but never found it. I told her how I found the placenta and umbilical cord and all that fun stuff. Sometimes a cow hides her calf and comes back later for it. That is what I thought had happened until the next day when I walked down that same field and saw her bawling. At that point it was presumed dead but we never found a sign of it.
Anyhow, as we were walking I saw a bunch of buzzards probably 20-30 all flying and jumping around on the ground like they do. I said to my SIL geez that could be the dead calf that was missing, lets go check it out. So reluctantly she followed. What we found instead were two bald eagles stuck together with their talons piercing each other! They were both on the ground one was flapping its wings frantic to get loose but could not. The other one was dazed, not fighting but obviously in distress. They were both bleeding. Without thinking, I decided to help them. I climbed through the barbed wire fence and grabbed ahold of the flapping eagle. That is no small feat in itself. They are very big and heavy. Their talons are extremely strong! I did manage to pull the talons of the one eagle out of the other eagle and vice versa! At that point the eagle was free and began flapping harder. I released it. It flew up and away. It was an amazing sight and I wish I had brought the camera or at least my phone with me. At that point the other eagle was badly hurt and in need of help. So I told my SIL to stay with it to keep the buzzards away and I ran home to get the phone and truck. By the time I got back it had passed away.
I spent the next several minuets trying to get ahold of someone to tell me what to do with the bird.
Finally, I got ahold of CA Dept. of Fish and Game and they asked me to bring it down to the office. It was all just so amazing and unbelievable to have witnessed something like that. You just can't believe how big they are by seeing a picture or even one on t.v.
The Fish and Game thought they were probably fighting with each other and got stuck together. They said they had a similar case last year. I hope the one that I freed survives. I will be watching for it on my next walk! I will be sure to take my phone and camera from now on!

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What's In An Owl Pellet?

2011-01-05T07:07:00.000-08:00

Well lets find out!
I finally found one the other day and dug though it. Since I had never seen one before I had no idea how large they were! This one was black and kinda reminded me of paper pulp about the size of a baseball! Of course I forgot to bring my camera that day on my walk. I was so mad at myself. Never forget your camera! That is when you always find something interesting to take a picture of!!!(-:
Anyhow, I did find this cute little jaw bone.

That's as much as I could find because the dogs were ready to move on to the next attraction. We just have way to much fun here don't we?(-:
Speaking of teeth...
I think I will share one of mine with you(-:

Isn't it ugly? Well I lost a filling and the tooth cracked and broke. No chance of saving it so I had to have it removed. And yes, I asked the doctor to save it for me so I could put it under my pillow for the toothfairy!(-: Just kidding, but hey you never know right?(-:
After much thought I decided to have an implant done. The Oral Surgeon said I was a perfect candidate and that it would go right in after he removed the old tooth. I thought that would be a good idea compared to having a bridge to no where put in! The whole procedure wasn't bad at all. Really, I expected a lot worse! All I needed was some advil and I was good to go(-:
The soup/yogurt/jello diet is getting old though. I can't wait till my appointment tomorrow and he says its all healed and ready to chomp on(-:
I will have to wait for 4 months to get the new tooth put on(-:

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Dances With Owls

2011-01-04T07:22:00.000-08:00

As I went to lock up the "girls" Sunday evening, I heard the Whoo Whoo of a Great Horned owl. Of course being me, I Whoo Whoo'd back. Well guess "Who" flew over to see me? Yup that’s right! It was Mr. Great Horned himself!(-: We had quite a nice chat and then he flew back the way he came. It was pretty amazing(-:

He and his matey (Click here to see a previous post) have lived in the neighborhood for several years now. I have been lucky enough to see them hatch out three sets of "little hooters". I think that qualifies me as being their friend(-: Although, I never imagined one would actually fly over to see me.(-: Usually we "chat" while they are up in the huge digger pine tree that is in our yard. They watch me as I mow the lawn and do other gardenly chores. Of course, they probably think it is quite boring to be a human(-: After all we must BBQ our meat or cook it in some way, where as they can just eat theirs as soon as they get it(-: Soon I hope to see the G.H.Owls getting ready to start their 4th family. I can't wait to have "chats" with their owlets(-:

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Snowy First Day of 2011

2011-01-01T08:37:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year! I hope everyone has a very healthy and happy one!
We had a little snow last night and this is all that is left(-:

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So Excited

2010-12-30T13:36:00.000-08:00

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As you can see we have a new visitor. I saw it poking its head out of the house today. I was thrilled! I think its a screech owl but I am not positive yet. It is very small though so that makes me think its a posibility! Yay for me! So happy! I love all creatures and this is just a real joy to have this one visiting me today(-: Maybe it will stay here and have a family? Time will tell! Either way I am so lucky to get to see it.
My husband reminded me that we had a owl in this box a few years ago. Sure enough I looked it up and there it was. See it here

SoRrY I HaVe BeEn AwAy So LoNg

2010-12-28T22:02:00.000-08:00

I will be back in the New Year. Hopefully it is a much better year for everyone!!!!

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It's Here...

2010-10-05T09:20:00.000-07:00

Can you smell it?

The crisp scent of Fall?
Mums and all?
With buds ready to burst?

Can you see it?

Ghostly figures passing in the night?
Sure to cause a fright?
Don't worry. it's just for one night!

Do you sense it?

A creepy spider climbing up a wall?
Sure to make a fall?
Onto your head?

Or do you just want to enjoy it?

Reeling in the calmness,
Like falling leaves,
Like a tumbleweed blowing in a gentle breeze?

Happy Fall!

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Squirrely Days of Summer

2010-08-21T13:53:00.000-07:00

Not much happening here. Hot and dry is about it. I am back to work and wishing for more days to relax.
Husband is back to work as well after his ordeal with the kidney stone. That was a real ordeal to say the least. Glad that is over(-:

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What's New Buckaroo?

2010-08-05T18:22:00.001-07:00

Well have you ever had an up close and personal visit with a kidney stone? Well you are about to...(-:

Your thinking ...oh no Cindee had a kidney stone and that's why she is never on here...but you are thankfully wrong...no this jewel belongs to my husband. Which, I may add is much worse by far. My husband is a big baby when he is sick so its been a week of playing nurse maid here for me.
I will say though my husband has only been off work in the 30 years I have known him 5 times. One time he cut his leg with a chainsaw. One time was the chickenpox. One time he had hives and one time he had pneumonia, and now this. So that's a pretty good work record. (-: This time I think was the worst because we did not know what was wrong.
A big problem my husband has is...he won't go to the doctor unless he is dying or thinks he is. But, we did get there because he felt like he was dying on Monday afternoon...I thought so too and was pretty worked up. It turned out to be a massive bladder/kidney infection. The doctor did not mention a kidney stone could be involved.
A (RN) nurse friend told me to periodically have him check his urine by going in a cup so I suggested it to him this morning again and sure enough that's when that thing was born. Geez. So now we are waiting for him to feel better. So far he has kept a little food down for 6.5 hours and that is the longest since Sunday evening. So, Yahooo! Hopefully this thing is behind us. I hope so! I am worn out! This has been a longgggg summer of sickness for us. I am ready to go back to school!

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Summer Reflection

2010-07-11T13:19:00.000-07:00

I had originally made this old lattice into a mirror and displayed it behind my sink.Click to see it as it was before. I decided to re do the sink area and I made another mirror for that. Click here to to see the new mirror. Anywho...I had this lattice half done with mirrors and decided to finish it up and flip the shelf to the bottom. I like it a lot better now. It reflects in a darker area of the walkway so that brightens up the spot too!
I glued 60, 4 inch mirrors to the back of each lattice square. Some were cut to fit. I left a few empty along the frame to add interest.
Gluing the individual mirrors adds a bit of extra sparkle because each mirror is at a different position instead of using one big mirror. Both would have worked though.
Anyhow, just a thought as of what to do with a piece of lattice you no longer want to use as a trellis or whatever(-:

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Looking In...

2010-07-07T06:42:00.001-07:00

Here is what I see...

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Dog Days Of Summer

2010-07-06T13:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Blogger Friends! I hope you are all enjoying your Summer!
I am just hangin' out with my Mom and trying to stay cool!!
I am on rat and snake patrol as usual.
One rattlesnake was killed today,

but I missed out on the action. My Mom said I had to stay inside where it was safer. My Mom just doesn't understand how much I would love to grab a hold of a rattler. I can shake those red racer snakes like nobodys' business! But, as usual Mom said she doesn't want me to get bit. She is a worry wart.
Well I am off to take a nap.
Life is tough!
Cheers!
~Captain Jack~

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Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-04T13:41:00.000-07:00

Hope you are all enjoying your day!

A few pictures to share of whats going on around the yard as of today.

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Fertilizer Friday

2010-06-25T01:20:00.000-07:00

Please be sure and join the fun at Tootsie Time for Fertilizer Friday.

Happy Fertilizer Friday to all!!!
Here is what is happening here in my little world(-:

The campanula is putting on quite a show today.

It was hard to get a picture of a nasturtium that was not chewed on(-:

I love my Tropicana Canna

Betty Boop is always a cute little happy rose.

Semps in a tea kettle

Blackeyed Susans

Chair planted with Semps

Daylily

Echinacea

Sea Holly

Cupids Dart

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Everything Is Just Jim Dandy

2010-06-24T07:12:00.001-07:00

Meet my new neighbor, Jim.
Isn't he just a real Dandy Dude?
Yup thought so too(-:
Hope your day is just Jim Dandy too!

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The Longest Day of The Year Sunset

2010-06-22T21:28:00.000-07:00

I almost missed it. I went outside and was completely stunned. I had to run to grab the camera and by then the sun had gone down more. But you can imagine...(-: It was just the right mix of clouds and humidity to make a popping sunset for this longest day of the year(-: What a lovely treat! Enjoy...(-:

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Spheres

2010-06-20T00:36:00.000-07:00

These are made from recycled whiskey barrel rings. The more rust the better(-:
My dear brother collects these for me and I had a pile of them waiting to be used!
I decided it would be a good day to put them together.(-:
All I did was drill a hole on the top and the bottom of each ring. Then I bolted them all together. You need two bolts, two washers, and two nuts for each end.
You can even put an eye hook in one end and hang it. They are pretty heavy when all together so you would need to find a place that would hold them.

Once you get the hang of getting them together they go together faster. The first one or two you make will be challenging, but don't get discouraged! The end result is worth the extra effort(-:

If nothing else, they sure make a good conversation piece(-:

Here are the 7 I made on Saturday(-:

Of course Jack had to give it his paw of approval!

Sitting in a tree...

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Saturday Garden Tour of My Garden

2010-06-19T09:44:00.000-07:00

The show stealer...

It is sooooo beautiful in the morning light!

One more...(-:

Wild Daisies

Old Wheelbarrow planted with mums. They won't be blooming till Fall.

Daylily

Blackeyed Susans

Sedum

Daylily

Pentstemon

Daylily

Old Purse

Pink Daylilies

Daylily

Daylily

I redid this basket on the tree. Added old birdhouse and planted with Semps.

Garden Art

Pretty ceramic mushroom my daughter got me at Target.

Heirloom Rose

Texas Sized Grasshopper(-:

Lost Soles

Frog on a daylily

Double Shasta Daisy

Don Juan Rose

Last Weeks Garage Sale Find. Old Cream Separator

Tropicana Canna(-:

Old Boots

Another tree basket.

Campanula

Backyard view. Thats the end of the tour for today(-:

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Saturday Road Trip

2010-06-14T11:03:00.001-07:00

We went to the mountains for a little sight seeing trip. This is some of what we saw while we were there.
I loved these ferns. They were everywhere growing in a bog type area. Pretty shady and cool!

A refreshing waterfall. Some folks swim here but the water is ice cold!

A pretty wild flower. Don't know the name of it. It was about two feet tall.

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Dethatching Lawn and Fertilizing 101

2010-06-10T11:34:00.001-07:00

One fine Spring day, I wondered to myself, how I could get my lawn dethatched and fertilized in less then an hour. Impossible you say?
Well I beg your pardon!
I had the help of a 20+ herd of cows come to my rescue!
They worked diligently and without complaint as they scoured every square foot of my garden!
Mind you they had no intention of leaving after their hard labor was finished like many folks on a job would! They required no pay, another plus for them! And fertilizer? Oh there was a ton of it spread all over the place, all free of charge too!
What??? You are laughing??? Well that is about all you can do in that type of situation.
Jack being the brave warrior he is, ushered them out of the yard with as little damage as was possible. Minus a few broken things and a lot of mess left behind.

I do not recommend this type of dethatching. I also recommend making sure that the gate is closed if you have range cows near by, because they are very hungry and eager to pay a visit to a nice green grass filled yard. It doesn't matter if there are hundreds of acres of grass growing just outside that said gate. Nope, they love to eat the tender lawn grass and the lovely flowers that bloom inside that gate.

Well that pretty much sums up my Spring! I basically spent most of it cleaning up after those said cows. Whoopie!
Amazing enough everything survived, including me! (-:
The beasts will be on their way up North to their Summer stomping grounds sometime next week!
To the dearly departing bovine...Don't let the gate hit you in the A$$!

Next year, I will instruct the younger folk who live here to make sure the gate is closed all the time!

What? You wonder where the pictures are? Oh there were no time for pictures when the cows came to visit, believe me!
Just open your freezer and take out a pound of hamburger and appreciate them in that form!
Bon Appetit!

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I'm Back With New Rules To My Game (Blog)

2010-06-06T11:06:00.000-07:00

Due to spending to much time on here I decided to not allow comments or emails from the blog. Hopefully no one gets to upset but actually it will save you all time too! I know you all enjoy my pictures so I am not worried about it to much. I just got myself to stressed trying to keep up with posting/comments/and visiting. So I am doing what is best for me(-: I know you all will understand eventually(-:
I will still visit you all and comment when I can(-: Yay!
Other then visits from the range cows and snail invasion things are growing right along here. I am finally done with another school year and I am off for the summer!

O.K. on to blogging...

The first picture is my dear Great Horned Owl nesting in the pine tree again this year. I can't wait to see the babies(-: Don't worry I will post pictures when they hatch.(-: Great Horned Owls are awesome birds. I love them!

Next is a cheapo alligator children's mask I threw into the pond for a few laughs(-:
It worked didn't it? I knew it(-:

These next two pictures are Weeping Japanese Maples that were purchased at Lowes for 19.99 each!!!! Yup, you read that right. I think it was a screw up, but I grabbed them up anyhow(-: I also have one more of the standard size ones that was only 7.00, because it was split. My DH drilled a couple holes in the truck and bolted it together. It is good to grow now! I forgot to take a picture of it though...next time...It is about 10 feet tall. All of these are in five gallon pots.(-:

This bed speaks for itself...

Of course my 17 year old cat Wyatt had to get into the shot!

Crock of Geranium

Backyard bed

Planters I put around the trees out front last year. They look pretty good this year.
Makes me glad I spent all that back breaking work on them(-:
Jack is giving a close exam of the soil. Yup, he gave it his paw of approval...(-:

Tub of geranium and poppies

Out back again. Everything is growing well this Spring, no thanks to the cows.

These are my brand new mushrooms. The big one is a solar light! I just love them! I got them at Ace Hardware.(-:

Lillies my daughter got me(-:

Old Masher with Semps.

The old bathtub pond. I replanted the old sink with moss. I like it much better(-:

Molly fish

This is another newbie. I had to have it of course because I love sunflowers! Another Ace Hardware purchase!

Old Plow.

Rose

Semps

Old turtle planter. The cows stepped on it and I glued it back together. The cows had a party in my yard this Spring. They left a mess behind and are banned from returning unless they want to end up in the freezer!

Front yard photos.

And last but not least is the bed redo. I moved it where it would get more sun and I am going to make it my "Red Bed" planter(-: Hopefully will finish it next week! You may remember I had Japanese grasses in it before and those were safely moved to new locations. This spot will get lots of sunshine and therefore I will have some annuals planted in it(-:
Jack snuck in for the picture too. He continues to rule the roost here!

Please excuse all the leaves/branches/and lawn unmowed! We had a windy storm here this past week! We managed to get rain which was the best part of it! I have a lot of clean up to do though...(-:

Thats it for this posting. I hope you all are enjoying your planting season!

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Spring Blooms

2010-04-25T22:42:00.001-07:00

This continues to be a very busy time of year as you all know. I have some pictures to share of the progress so far this Spring around the garden. The show stopper hands down is the huge Crab Apple Tree! It is amazing this year! Swarming with bees and filling the air with it's heavenly scent. It always gets my attention and makes me want to stop and sit and take deep breaths! I managed to sit and eat lunch so I could enjoy it today!
Thanks for all your wonderful comments about the Orbs from yesterday! They are beautiful!
Have a wonderful week everyone!

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Pretty Orbs

2010-04-24T20:56:00.000-07:00

Picture taken at Shasta Lake today. I just love the colors and how they just seem to float(-:
Hope everyone is enjoying a perfect Spring day!

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Barrel Ring Bed Sping Sun

2010-04-17T18:47:00.000-07:00

Not sure what else to call this creation. It is made out of an old rusty barrel ring with old rusty bed springs wired to it(-:

I drilled two holes for each bed spring so I could wire them on. It was a fun project to do and who knows I might make another one in the future(-:

I decided to hang it on my front porch so I could enjoy it when I come and go(-:

Hope everyone is enjoying a nice Springy day!!!

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Fertilizer Friday

2010-04-16T06:10:00.001-07:00

Please be sure and join the fun at Tootsie Time for Fertilizer Friday.

I am joining in today to show off my...

Blooming Amaryllis

This is the Dancing Queen and I love it!!! The flowers opened all at once for a awesome show! The whole family has commented on how outstanding the performance is(-:
This is the last of the Amaryllis I bought at White Flower Farm.
Happy Friday!!!!

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New Bottle Tree

2010-04-13T19:29:00.001-07:00

The old tree finally rotted and had to be replaced. This is a lodge pole that I bought. It is treated and hopefully will last a few years. I washed the bottles and drilled new holes for the rebar posts.

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New Mosaic Mirror

2010-04-13T06:32:00.001-07:00

I made this one a tad different then the last. I cut the mirror tiles more square and bigger. It was faster to do and I like the look of the frame too. The original mirror was from the Salvation Army. I sprayed it black and antiqued it. It is a hard plastic frame. I just mosaiced right over the original mirror. It hangs outside on my patio.

I also got a new bottle tree put up in the old ones place. The original peach tree finally rotted off and it had to be cut down. A new lodge pole was put in near where the peach tree was taken out and I am really enjoying it! I was sure to get a lodge pole that was not perfectly straight! It wasn't to hard to find one and I am sure the cashier was wondering why I wanted a tweaked one(-: I like things that aren't perfect as you may know(-: Anyhow I will take a picture when the rain stops falling!

Well vacation is over and I am looking forward to Summer Vacation!!!(-: There is never enough time to do what I want to do when I work.(-: It also seems like time really flies along when I am at school and that's another reason I enjoy Summer so much(-: I love to stay at home doing whatever I want to do(-: Some people probably think that is boringgggggggg but to me that is what makes me happy! Last year I filled my car up with gas one time, the whole Summer vacation!(-: Boating trips require the Explorer(-:

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Spring Clouds

2010-04-02T21:35:00.000-07:00

Its vacation time for me. I will check in next week. I hope you all have a fantastic Easter and enjoy everything you do!

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An Easter Meme For A Good Cause

2010-03-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

Shelly from This Eclectic Life made me do it, but don't panic cuz I won't "make" you do anything you don't want to do. But... read along and see if you want to participate because it's for a good cause and it won't cost you a dime(-:
You see, for every blogger who participates in the Hershey’s Better Basket Blog Hop a $10 donation is given to the Children’s Miracle Network. That’s worth doing, isn’t it? I mean, You can ensure that a donation is given to a worthy cause without spending a dime of your own money!

I’m supposed to give a “Virtual Easter Basket” to the people I tag. Shelly gave me this basket so I am passing it along to share with you! Look at all those yummy chocolate eggs!!! I love Hershey's chocolate(-: Easter Bunnies are a favorite of mine. I hope you enjoy them too!

Here are the Rules we are supposed to copy on our blogs:

* Copy and paste these rules to your blog post.
* Create a blog post giving a virtual Easter Basket to another blogger – you can give as many Virtual Baskets as you want.
* Link back to person who gave you an Easter Basket.
* Let each person you are giving a Virtual Easter Basket know you have given them a Basket.
* Leave your link at BetterBasket.info/BlogHop comment section. You can also find the official rules of this #betterbasket blog hop, and more information about Better Basket with Hershey’s there.
* Hershey’s is donating $10 per each blog participating to the Better Basket Blog Hop to Children’s Miracle Network (up to total of $5,000 by blog posts written by April 4th, 2010).
* Please note that only one blog post by each blog url will count towards the donation.

If you post for this meme, let me know in the comment section, and I’ll add you as a link on this post.
Thanks for playing along!

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Amaryllis Blooming

2010-03-23T08:37:00.001-07:00

O.K. here it is. I must say I am not that impressed with them. I guess I was expecting a lot bigger flowers. These are pretty average sized nothing out of the ordinary. My other bulb has a few leaves and a bud coming up. I will take a picture when it blooms! I received the bulbs from...
White Flower Farm.

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St Patty Jack

2010-03-17T14:29:00.001-07:00

Nope Mom you can not make me smile for the camera!

This is humiliating. I am not an "Irish" Setter I am a Rat Terrier!

Wait till I get this thing off my head!!! *the evil look*

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Happy St. Patricks Day!

2010-03-16T20:58:00.000-07:00

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Red Sky In The Morning

2010-03-16T07:12:00.001-07:00

Well there you have it! A red sky in the morning...Sailors Take Warning(-:
This one is especially for Joy @ GardenJoy2Me! Enjoy!!!!

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