Sunflowers are blooming. . . . . . . . . .

Back in early June I planted a packet of sunflower seeds along the low brick wall

 in the front garden in hopes they'd take root and grow before the squirrels found

 them and dug them up!  I've been watching them carefully, fascinated by their 

healthy growth, reminding Bob not to mow over them, and watering them when

there's been no rain and the temperatures have climbed into the 90's.

Just a few days ago the sunflowers were still in bud - the heavy rain from the 

thunderstorm on Thursday evening brought renewal to the garden. 

Funny how rain does such a better job than the garden hoses. How precious

is water falling from those huge clouds billowing across the skies.

Of course they are facing east, toward the rising sun, away from the cottage.

Each morning I pop over and take their picture from my neighbor's side of

 the wall - the same wall I cross to go care for the neighbor's cat Ms. Nala.

Just today and tomorrow remaining as our neighbor returns in the evening.

So, hanging out the 'sunflower flag' this week seems appropriate.

 The gold and green colors of the huge flowers are beautiful and already

 I'm picking other spots where I plan to try growing sunflowers next summer. 

 They will provide late summer food for the birds. . . . . . . . . . oh yes, perhaps

 the squirrels also!

Wishing you all a wonderful summer weekend.