Autumn Gardens

I've been away from my own computer for over two weeks. About nine of those days were spent up at the cottage away from a internet connection. It's going to be a while before I can catch up but I'll be visiting, posting and replying to comments again before too long. Hopefully.

When we cross the street in front of Frank's place, we find ourselves in a beautiful piece of land complete with fertile fields, a meandering creek and a small butterfly garden. Earlier this summer, another butterfly garden was built not too far from the pond in my own local park. We're very lucky to have such lovely sights to see so close to our respective homes.

Asters attract all sorts of beautiful insects including the wonderful Monarch as it pauses during its migration. This one danced around from flower to flower until it finally sat still long enough to pose for this photo.

A busy bee buzzed around nearby.

And an interesting little yellow-green beetle tip-toed around the petals.

Jerusalem Artichoke grows wild and tall in the field.

These fluffy pink plants were growing at my local park.

Head bent, seeds gone and petals withered - this sunflower has seen better days.

I'll be back in a few days with some autumn leaves

Sum Sum Summertime

There isn't much that I don't like about summer. I love the sights, sounds and fragrances which represent my favourite season.

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On those particularly hot days, you might want to relax under the shade of a large umbrella and enjoy the garden.

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Flowers, such as these Bleeding Hearts are in full bloom.

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This stray bell-shaped flower took root in the crack of a patio stone, and grows right beside the step.

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This small yellow blossom, found shortly after a light rainfall brightens its surroundings like the emerging sunshine.

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This little bug seemed to reflect the colour of the surrounding foliage.

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Here's a bit of perspective which shows how tiny it was.

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The early evening sun filters through from behind this tree, casting a long shadow. This is my favourite time of day.

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Late-day sunshine seems to saturate its surroundings with intense colour. The bark of these trees almost appear to be lit from within.

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A short while later, this park bench glistens like gold in the setting sun.

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The rising moon and setting sun provide soft contrasting colours behind this dead tree's silhouette.

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As the day grows dark, two birds bid each other "goodnight" with their song.

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A Canada Day firework set off at the end of our street. With this, I wish a Happy 4th to our Amurikan pals, from your friends north of the border!