Something different!!

 This is something I've been thinking of doing for some time now. Well, part of it.

Some of you might remember my rain chains from an old post back in 2008 seen here. I love these chains and brought them with us when we came south. However I have no gutters to use them with at this house. They sat in a box in the shed for nearly 3 years now and well...shame on me!

I've become a person who loves to find new uses for old things and although the chains aren't that old, they sure were calling out for a new use. (since I have no gutters!)

A few days ago, I decided to hang them under the eaves of my back porch. Then it wasn't very long before I thought that they might enjoy a little greenery within.

 I had some struggling "hens and chicks" in one of my strawberry pots and the idea clicked. I placed a few small rocks in the "tulips" of the chains, added a little dirt and the plants!

They are protected by the eaves of the roof and in full sun.

We shall see how they do!! And I'll be sure to share with you whether or not this turned out to be a good idea!

Just Another Day in the Yard

The Bluebird nest has gone from a few sprigs of grass to a beautiful work of grassy art! Way to go! to my hard working mom and dad!

 Butterfly sightings are increasing.

 Apple blossoms just all of a sudden appear!

 The daffodils are still standing tall.

 Changes are beginning.

 The porch is being utilized.

 And my Dogwood tree never ceases to amaze me!

 The little Tufted Titmice are very entertaining to watch...

 ...and are ever watchful!

Don't mess with MY suet!!!

Old Nests and New Butterflies

 One of my earliest butterflies, the Falcate Orangetip showed up in the warmth of this late winter day. Turns out it was one of three butterflies I would see today.

 I won't boast one these pictures, and what excuse did I have?...none, it sat quite still for me, but alas...no crisp shot was to be had.

 I would love to remember the name of this sweet early shade bloomer that I bought last year, but again, I've forgotten!

 One thing I am sure of, and that this is a bird nest!!!

 This is a Maple Tree!...

...and these are wild! 

 I can't have a post each new year without at least one photo of the crocus.

 The rake is getting put to good use. OH the leaves...will they ever end!!!!???

 I just can't wait for the Dogwood to bloom!

 The little Comma caught my eye, and again no clear shot.

 But it's a butterfly! Who could resist?

 Those little stick nests are everywhere!

Did I tell you there are 3 baby Flying Squirrels in the old Bluebird house! The little rascals!!!

Scenes from the Yard

 After a brief return to winter weather things are getting back to the mild, spring is in the air, atmosphere here on the mountain.

The local Nuthatches are enjoying the homemade suet that I've kept going in the feeder.

 The price of Black Oil Sunflower seed has kept this fellow lonely this year.

 This bunch is a lot cheaper to take care of over the winter months!

 They are taking the place of the old birdbath. It finally let go so I'm thinking it'll make a great plant holder this year.

 You really can't have too much moss....can you?

 The Daffy's heads are hanging. That frost was just a bit much for the ones that were in bloom.

 However, the rescued flowers are standing tall with the chickens in the kitchen window!

 Nothing gets the Lenten Rose down! This bunch was laying on the sidewalk yesterday morning.

 And the rest of the spring growth just keeps pluggin along!

 Some of us just enjoy watching it all happen before our very eyes!

ummmm Ole, you got a loose hair there bud!

Thou Shall NOT Occupy!

 It has just been the most mild of winters in Northern Alabama!

The kind of winter that feels right for the south. We had a little snow and cold early on, but hopefully winter will close with ease and we can move on to bigger and better things.

 Ok, maybe I'm living in a dream world, but without dreams where would we be?

I'm looking forward to dividing Morgan's boots and finding new homes for the crowd growing there. Because as we all know it's not nice to Occupy too much space.

 It's much nicer to have room to breath.

 To guide with love and strength.

 This ideal brings out the best in all of us.

 For those who like to Occupy...

 Thinking you can cause trouble and put others out, then sneak away unnoticed...

 ...is the wrong kind of thinking my friend!

We know who you are!

You are hereby notified!!!

P.S. I love it that the sweet little Flying Squirrels have decided to take up residence over the winter in my beloved Bluebird nest, however...

they just got their two week notice! This house belongs to my kids!

Looking Back

 These forgotten photos were taken last May. What a beautiful month in Alabama!

 It's still hard for me to get over how much earlier spring comes in the south!

 As most birds here on the mountain, hiding in the trees from the photographer is their favorite past time. This little Palm Warbler is no exception.

 And here I am training the birds to take seed from my hand.

I got really impatient...so it didn't really work out well. I had to fight the mice off at night. That was no fun!