So many figs, and garden visitors. . . . . . . . . .

The large green bowl was overflowing after Bob gathered the ripe figs early
 yesterday afternoon.

He must have picked at least 4 pounds.

Thankfully he was done prior to torrential rain accompanied by scary thunder and

 lightning right overhead around 5 PM. Our power went out, and stayed out for about

 an hour apparently caused by downed trees.

Later I shared bowls of figs with two neighbors, one who stopped by to get them

 after the storm passed. We three sat on the front porch enjoying a drink and

 watching many birds at the feeder, while awaiting electricity so I could bake this

 for supper. . . . . . . 

 . . . . . . . caramelized onions, chopped Kalamata olives, sliced manchego cheese

 and the just-picked figs, layered on a flatbread crust and dusted with a

 touch of Sicilian dried oregano.

Enjoyed a slice of this along with a bowl of chilled cucumber gazpacho made earlier

 in the week - then frozen. First time trying that and have to say it worked perfectly,

 tasted fresh and of course was definitely well-chilled after thawing. I have frozen

 several bags of this summer soup and am glad to know it will be ready for more

 hot days ahead. . . . . . . . . without all the preparation. 

As for garden visitors, the birds still flock to the feeders and cardinals actually come 

in large groups, especially now the figs are ready for eating on the nearby tree - they

 love them!

I notice their colors are faded at this time of year compared to winter and spring. 

The male above is more orange than red now. . . . . . . and the female below also 

seems much paler.  

This is a young blue jay and his feathers are a paler blue than the adults.

 He's been coming to this birdbath early each morning for more than

 a week - just stands on the little rock looking out into the world, sipping a drink

 now and then. I can walk by and he stays there, sometimes for half an hour

 or so, not bothered by anything. Later in the day he returns - these pix I took in

 the afternoon - and stays a while, again drinking and cooling off.

Hope your weekend is special. . . . . . enjoy the magical moments, and may

they be abundant.