A fragrant garden walk. . . . .

Take a closer look at the smaller things. . . . those you may take for granted.

Yesterday started out under thick, low cloud cover.  

Coffee mug in hand, camera around neck, in dressing gown and flip flops,
I quietly let myself out into the garden.
I've had to do my own mini pedicure to enable being seen in open toe sandals
 this week - sweet Ms. Kim, my pedi lady is probably missing me, as I am her by now! 
As for my gel finger nails, don't get me started, just know I need my sweet 
 Ms. My Lihn more than ever before!!!

I only managed a few hours sleep, found myself reading at bedtime and 
then again at 3:00 AM. One of those lousy nights I'm having more often lately - can
 I blame COVID-19?

I needed fresh air.

garden is still lovely even without sunshine. 

Dampness brings out full fragrance of the jasmine billowing over the fences,
the mint and rosemary standing tall perfume the air as I pass by.
The new, still tiny, basil shoots when gently rubbed between my fingers, bring
 thoughts of making pesto when summertime arrives.

Yes, wildlife was awake too!  A naughty rabbit was already eyeing my small
tomato patch. A brown thrasher was busy breakfasting on the suet cake,
the bluest Eastern bluebird and pair of wrens were on the big feeder. . . . . 
and all around birds were singing and calling from the trees.

Early morning does not allow you to take the small, beautiful things
for granted - especially in a spring garden.

A 'tweet' from Ms. Ruby herself!

"Mary doesn't often do a 'guest post'  as she never seems to be at a loss for words!

However, today she's allowing me to tell you what I've been up to. . . . . . . . . teasing 

her and that big camera she's always trying to focus through the dining room windows."

"I think I've found a nice home around this family's front porch". 
Even that old guy Bob treated me to a shiny new feeder this Summer and
 the bees and ants haven't come to share it, yet!

Today, besides quick flights between the bright red nectar feeder and the 

brilliant Heavenly Blue morning glories, I'm enjoying short rests here

on the jasmine vine near the front door. It's the first time Mary has noticed 
how I like to perch here and ruffle my feathers now and then." 

"At the weekend Mary was out here. . . . . when not doing things in the kitchen with all 
those beautiful figs Bob keeps picking. . . . .  pruning the unruly morning glories 
and jasmine climbing the porch just as I came by for a sip of nectar. 
I decided not to fly off, instead I actually chirped at her several times - she 
seemed very excited to know I have a voice too, so she's allowing me to tweet 
here a bit today."

"But yes, I am a little shy and I give this lady such a hard time as she tries to 

snap my portrait to share with you. As you can see, I like to hide behind things 

and when I make my move I certainly don't waste any time, I'm gone in a flash. 

She is patient but I know she's still trying for the perfect shot - I really should  

 start slowing down a bit."

"Thanks for 'tweeting' back at me - I'll be waiting to hear from you."