Life here is full and bustling as Summer tumbles into Autumn. Pleasant seasonal weather during the horse show week has given way to hot, dry days and very drastic drought conditions. The woods are parched and leaves are falling fast, but, even muted, Autumn is beautiful. Best of all, the oak mites are gone.
We saw a huge, reddish coyote yesterday. I always wonder if the genes of red wolves are carried in these large coyotes that we see occasionally. My own coyote, years ago, was a more typical, grayish tan, slight creature. But even this big coyote, moves as though the laws of gravity are different for him than for other creatures. Licorice, the shed cat, has that same, almost untethered way of moving over the ground with a bouncing lightness.
It is exciting to see mammals, but the reptiles and amphibians are treasured, too. Today, there was a skink on the ramp without a tail. It should grow back. Apart from the missing tail, it seemed healthy. And we see frogs of all sizes, including a tiny one yesterday by the barn. Clearing some leaves by the shed, I came across a beautiful snake.
The horses are enjoying fewer flies, and the pasture being diminished by drought is helping to keep the Irish obesity under control.
Harry is very busy, with sculptures in the studio here, and a big project at Chesterfield Mall.
Today was trash day, and Harlan emptied and placed the dumpster perfectly.
I often miss Marianne when she is here helping with the barn chores, but I managed to catch a picture of her this weekend.
Marianne’s shirt matched the butterfly bush next to the shed, which the bumblebees have been enjoying.
Weedy is a bit sad without his pack of dogs. He is making do with a pack of cats and his two humans.
Jane and I had a serious bike practice session on Saturday on the Katy Trail. It was strenuous, but beautiful and we met some very interesting people. We are getting excited for the upcoming adventure from Sedalia eastward.
Be safe, be well, enjoy the journey. Slava Ukraini! Peace.
Oh my, that bear project is huge!
What busy lives you lead! I love coyotes. I followed the Daily Coyote from when he was rescued as a pup until he passed on after a long life. Don’t know if you ever heard of him. I enjoyed reading his story by Shreve Stockton. We sometimes spot one here but they are not confident for good reason.
Nice Fall pictures.
We have far too many coyotes here. They do mate with dogs, which might account for the color.
I loved all of these beautiful pictures and their subjects, except for the poor cracked earth. I sure hope you get rain soon. I especially liked the picture of Harry contemplating his sculpture….he’s so talented.
Pics of pets and people are the best. That winterberry pic is amazing!