He Missed His Mommy

The cats (brothers Bagheera and BooBoo) always miss us if we are away more than a few days. When we pulled into the driveway today, there was Baghie trotting over to us, squawking about how neglected he had been in our absence. BooBoo was not as vocal about it.  However, once the unpacking was done and I sat down to put my feet up for a bit, he promptly made himself comfortable in my sandals.

 

It's nice to be missed ... 

Paper Bug

This morning as I sat down in my usual rocking chair on the deck, I got a little start. On the table to my left was this guy enjoying his breakfast of Seed Catalog. He was close to two inches long, nose to tail. No shrimp for a bug. The kids (and most of the adults) all trotted out to Ooooh and Aaaaaah over him, and he was much appreciated as a specimen. When he moved on to other objects on the table, he was gently removed to another part of the deck where he might have better success finding something tastier than a water bottle cap.

Morning On The Lake

This morning I woke earlier than usual and could not get back into a restful sleep, so I got up and took the kayak out onto the lake for a nice, leisurely paddle. It was a beautiful morning; cool and clear, with just a little bit of high overcast so no direct sun. The far end of the lake from the house is "Duck Poop Island," as the kids call it. Nearest the house is the earthen dam and spillway. Right close to shore is this lovely cluster of water lillies, a new addition to the lake life. As I neared, it became obvious it is a favorite hangout for frogs, dragonflies and other shy creatures. The blossoms are stunning; they remind me of magnolia and dogwood in their prim stiffness.

 

 

 

Duck Poop Island

This is "Duck Poop Island," so named by the boys who enjoy visiting and squishing poopy mud between their toes. It's not actually an island but is almost surrounded by water, between the lake itself and the stream that feeds it. It is a favorite spot of the boys to visit, and beyond is a spot for grander adventures, "Dinosaur Swamp." The boys generally take two-way radios with them when they adventure, as well as snacks. This time they brought along adults with camera phones instead.

Squishy Bear squishing this toes