Monday, April 14, 2025

Outdoors in Springtime




Mrs. Wren started to build a nest in my pansies (see previous post) and then changed her mind.  So, no wren nest to report.  I can, however, report a black capped chickadee nest in the birdhouse.
I startled the momma yesterday when I peeked in to see what was happening.


Yes, that's yours truly pushing a lawn mower for the first time in 25 years.  Brett has developed a problem with foot drop which makes navigating the inclines in our backyard with the lawnmower very difficult.  Before making the decision to hire it done, I decided to give it a try.  It was such a beautiful day yesterday and I've been trying to lose some weight and get more fit.  I found it to be a good challenge.  Between the two of us we finished the job.  We'll see how I feel about it when the heat and humidity sets in.  Could be a different story then.   


After the mowing was done, I went around to see what was in bloom.
The clematis has climbed to the top of the trellis and decided to continue growing all through the laurel bushes.  The laurels are due for a trim.  I guess I'll wait until the clematis is through blooming to give them all a haircut.


For now we will enjoy their beautiful blossoms.


Recently we had a fence and stepping stones installed along the side of the house.  You may remember me mentioning that this side has a four foot drop off.  Since the water spigot is located on this side, we do have to walk along here.  We've talked about doing this for years and finally got it done.  I'm so happy with the way it turned out and have greater piece of mind now that nobody will be toppling over the edge.


I like how they made a couple of steps up to the courtyard patio.


Along this same side of the house just past the patio, the azaleas are in all their glory.


While checking out all the things in bloom I came across this.
After watching them for awhile I have no doubt that there will soon be a population increase of ladybugs in our area.  :D.
I will be happy to lay out the welcome mat as they are such beneficial insects for the garden.