wild kingdom on the roof

This morning I awoke to the sound of my backyard owl having breakfast. It was about 6:30 a.m. and this awful racket sounded like it was going to come through my bedroom window. I don't know if it was squirrel or a bird but someone wasn't going without a fight. I usually don't hear the owl except when I least expect it- at night when I'm watching t.v. When I mute to hear him better, of course he stops. It's amazing to me to have such a wide variety of wildlife in an urban setting.

boxelder bastards

Let me introduce you to the boxelder bug. This unassuming creature does not bite or sting, harm plants and is completely harmless to property. They can often been seen in all stages of life from a 1/16th of an inch bright red juvenile to the adult seen here. This is a social bug and is often seen in large quantities. I first noticed these guys on the front of the stone around a garden in my front yard. I did some research and discovered they are virtually harmless so I decided not to take any action thinking they might provide some food for the birds. Little did I know they would soon move in to my house. I have had to resort to an insecticide just to be able to open my front door. The only saving grace is that if they choose your house one year, they are a one time guest, and won't be back next year. Good luck to their next host!

step one complete

Well it's official, I am now a Master Gardener intern. I have one calendar year to log in 40 hours of community service and then the title is mine. It has been a really amazing experience and helps me to feel that I am moving in the right direction. Who knows maybe a degree in Landscape Architecture is in my horizon. Next step is take the time spent at MG training and hone my gun skills as a Concealed Carry permit is in my near future.