Chinese lanterns

These stunning flowers get bright orange just in time for fall. I cut some and brought them into the house. Apparently they will stay a long time inside. This is the best year for me growing this plant. I planted it several years ago from a start from garden club member Sharon. They look quite festive!

Flicker bath

A male flicker took a big bath today in the bird bath on my deck. I seldom see flickers bathing so it was a real treat. He came with three others and after he was cleaned up went in the tree where he had some beak interaction with a female.

Fall crocus

A fleeting flower blooming in late summer. This year the slugs are attacking after more than 2 inches of rain late last week. In the spring there is dense green foliage which dies away and then you are surprised with flowers in late summer. My aunt gave me some bulbs from her garden many years ago and I have been able to increase their numbers and move them to more locations.

Roses

I picked these in ahead of a heavy rain prediction. The one on the left is a Princess Diana Peace rose I have had about 10 years. It was purchased after I lost my Mom. I had to move it 3 years ago because it wasn't doing very well but it seems to like its new location. The other one I have had 2 or 3 years and it has the most amazing fragrance. They are my newest roses . I have several that are well over 40 years old.

Salsa

First time making salsa from home grown tomatoes - very tasty way to enjoy our crop during the winter months! I had to buy peppers and onions but used home grown tomatoes, garlic and jalapeños. This is the first batch and I made a second batch using more yellow tomatoes so the color is less red. It will be nice to have all natural ingredients in our salsa!