Cuddle buddies

Sorry - just can't help it. Had to share, yet again, the cuteness overload that is Nick and Nellie cuddling. Well, not cuddling so much as staring at me and wondering why the treats are no longer forthcoming. 

 

Love my wild critters, but they can be pesky

The Critter Café outside the laundry room has been thriving with squirrels, big banded pigeons, ravens, crows, jays, a variety of dainty birds, and a wonderful assortment of lizards. All good. Lately, however, an unidentified critter has been wreaking a bit of havoc on the planters along the fence line. Mind you, those planters have been in my thoughts for a while, as they are slowly (finally) starting to rot away. The jade plants that were once thriving have totally given up. Fine. Just one more chore to do. (Sigh). Nothing like a nudge to get things moving. 

It started when an area was dug up and there was styrofoam scattered all over the place. If you're wondering why styrofoam is in a planter -- don't ask. You really don't want to know. Anyway, I walked out to feed my furry and feathered guests, only to come upon this sight:

Naturally cleanup is still in progress, and replacements are still being decided, but here's the next big project looming on the horizon as soon as the heat subsides a bit. Yup - ALL gotta come out. In ten years, we may actually see some progress. 

Oops! Doing what I have chastised people for doing - not a good look

I have repeatedly chastised people (silently) who volcano mulch their trees with either rocks or mulch. Surrounding the base of a tree doesn't allow it to breathe and invites rot and insect activity. So one day, as I'm looking at the overgrowth mess at the base of our giant Chinese Elm we love so much in the backyard, I realized with a shock, that I am GUILTY of a version of volcano mulching that didn't enter my pea brain. In my case, it's putting potted plants at the base of the tree, allowing debris to pile up. Allowing too many spider plants to take over and suffocate the base - not to mention just covering up any other decorative elements. So with the zest of a born again gardener, I have started the process of clearing out and sprucing up. Naturally this project was begun during the hottest weeks we've had to date because why not? Nothing like working up a good sweat, right?

This does have a certain charm, until you look closely and realize certain things are not thriving by being choked out.

As I pulled pots away from the base, the amount of leaf buildup was a bit unnerving. Poor tree was gasping. You can see the dark band at the base of the tree. Not good.

Another view of the overgrowth. The large blue pot held plants that had been knocked over in the wind/firestorm we had in January and were not thriving. In remaking the area, high winds, which now seem to be a given, are being taken into account.

Ferns seemed to be a good choice for the pot because it doesn't get too much sun. The ferns that were thriving in another area of the yard had been destroyed in the windstorm, so I salvaged what I could and hope they will fill in nicely in a year or two. All the spider plants are gone as well. While the wind isn't an issue for them, they just weren't thriving and were creating a debris catch-all.

This is as far as the rehab goes so far. Still thinking how to finish off this area without choking the tree and allowing other plants to thrive. A work in progress.

How does he do it?

Nellie's bestie Nick has many talents, with getting seriously sick during a heatwave being only one. We worry about the boy frequently. However, today he showed us not only his bright eyes, but a talent we weren't aware existed in reality. Apparently now dogs can take selfies. Here's proof.

Not only that, but they can text with the best of them. When I texted Nick's mom to make sure she was really home (and yes, I knew she was), he texted back this masterpiece:

That boy is talented on soooo many levels.

 

Sadness creates lifesaving happiness

We got the very sad news that Lenny and Jack, two of the sweetest little dogs, succumbed to their old age within one week of each other. The normal thing to do would be to grieve for months and then maybe look for another dog. Fortunately for 10 year old siblings Billy Bob and Penny Sue, M's sister and brother-in-law embraced the notion they should have a home as soon as possible and went to a shelter an hour away to adopt two charmers. The double names are the because the dogs lived in South Carolina (it's a Southern tradition) until their guardian died. We're told they are energetic and clingy, and they make two sad people laugh - which is a good thing. 

They may look as if they will create mayhem, but the next photo tells the true story that they have fit right in.

Perky is as perky does (whatever that means)

 Nellie's bestie Nick has been truly suffering in the heatwave we've been experiencing. Well, in all fairness, Nick thinks anything above 75 degrees is too hot. When he's having the vapors he won't eat, he refuses treats, and he looks like he's near collapse. Imagine our surprise on our last visit when he not only DEMANDED treats, but was zesty. It was so good to see his alert, whadda ya gonna do for me expression, it's impossible not to share his cuteness.

Welp - that's it for me today says Angel

Last night was National Night Out and we decided to crash a block party that was happening a couple of streets away. Baking my world famous brownies (in a three block area) and taking them seemed to be a clever way to blend in. We were also greeted by the many neighbors who knew us (and actually invited us). All in all, a jolly evening. HOWEVER - the duo we were expecting, and had assured us would be present, were missing. A quick text and -- disappointment followed. They weren't coming. The reason -- Miss Angel was too tuckered out to move. As follows:

 Yup - totally crashed. Sweet dreams. And excused.

Stunning simplicity

There is a house on our dog walks that has a nice yard and occasionally their overly exuberant dogs are out to loudly and repeatedly say hello. But this, surprisingly, isn't about dogs (for a change). They added a touch to their entry gate that is just so simple, and yet stunning. It reminds me of Japanese bonsai (though it isn't at all), and being in front of a Craftsman style house, which has Japanese origins, it makes perfect sense.

 

OK -- one last detail

On June 23, the post was about finishing the front triangle area of my yard, and the statement was that it was done and dusted -- until I thought of something else. Well, of course there had to be something else. The pebbles at the back end just felt...wrong. Ah ha. What they lacked was a nice border. Bottles wouldn't do as the slate was really a pathway to have access to the plantings and a tripping hazard isn't a good idea for an old geezer. Thought of plastic edging, but then a hard no to plastic. Didn't want to buy anything. Mmmm. And there it was. Large black pebbles that had previously made a lovely design in front of an artistic tree stump were now completely hidden by the foxtail agave that has grown so aggressively (and beautifully). Dug a few of those out and created a border that just makes the area look finished. Or at least that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

An Angel celebrating the Fourth of July

Angel is indeed just the right ambassador for celebrating Independence Day. Enough said.

Sleeping beauty

McSnoozy-Snorey, otherwise known as Nellie's good chum Nick, is of such a delicate constitution that he is unable to cope with any temperatures above 70º. Even that can be a bit of a struggle. On bad days he gets a very upset tummy that results in messy cleanups. On good days, he's able to nap quite soundly and STILL be cute as a button.

Revamp done and dusted...until I think of something else

While it may be hard to believe, procrastination and dithering are my stock and trade when it comes to yard work. Every now and then, however, something actually is completed to a satisfactory conclusion. Well, until it doesn't work and then has to be done all over again. But here's hoping that things grow in as expected (hoped for) and within a year, it will look fully formatted and lush. Fingers crossed. 

Not fond of Nextdoor but it has it's uses

While I find it somewhat addictive, I frequently make noises of disgust about the neighborhood app Nextdoor. Too often there are posts which degenerate quickly, often when it's clear someone didn't even bother to read the original post. There are far too many heartbreaking posts about lost dogs, cats, tortoises (you name it), and too much fear-mongering about our native wildlife. However, every now and then it serves a positive purpose. 

There was a post requesting to borrow a bird cage so the person could introduce a new bird to her current Budgie who just lost his best friend. As luck would have it, there was a birdcage in my shed that served its purpose long ago, and which I still use, very rarely, for the odd animal rescue. Since it has done nothing other than gather dust for the past year, offering it up seemed the neighborly thing to do. We arranged a drop off, which went very smoothly, and a couple of days later a text came through saying how the new bird (TigerEye) and her older bird (Golden Girl) made friends through the bars immediately. That's when I suggested she keep the cage if she wanted to, and her grateful response was enough. She did point out that it would be helpful should we have another evacuation situation as she was so stressed during the fire about how to get her birds out safely as her birdcage is far larger and cumbersome. While I get to look like a giving soul, it's actually a selfish move. That birdcage being gone means one less thing to move around in storage. A win-win!

The introduction:

The assimilation:

And yes, they are gorgeous.

Beauty of nature

My brother is an amazing photographer and has captured so many beautiful images in nature. He lives on the coast in Northern California, so nature's abundance is rich in color and diversity. Enjoy.

Their reputation for wisdom is spot on

I took a trip to Japan what seems like a thousand years ago now. It was three months after the Fukushima disaster and hardly any westerners were traveling there which made it very easy to get around and enjoy uncrowded sites. While on the trip, I started a blog to share with my colleagues where I worked -- mostly to make them very envious and also record the wonderful sights. While on our morning walk, Nellie commented that the neighborhood scenery was getting very old and nothing seemed interesting enough to share. Well, okay, Nellie only nodded when I mentioned it with a deep sigh, as she is, after all, a dog. As luck would have it, I was trying to clean up a couple of flash drives and came across a picture that always makes me smile -- both because owls are among my favorite creatures and because as a librarian, reading is a big deal. So, because we all need something to cheer us up in these dark times, two gigantic owls showing how wise they truly are:

If you are curious about the big trip and have absolutely nothing better to do, you can read all about it at https://japanatlast.blogspot.com/ . In fact, you don't have to read at all, and just enjoy the pictures of a magical land.

Protesting and then there's defacing property

Given the current state of affairs in the country, I would love to be able to protest and hope to bring constitutional order back as the norm. Since that isn't doable for me, I appreciate those who are willing and able to take a peaceful stand for what's right. This sort of thing, however, is both counterproductive and disgraceful (not to mention against the law). This is a friend's office building. Ugly in so many ways, and utterly meaningless for getting any kind of message across.

 

Two sweeties just chillin'

These two beauties used to live two doors away. Mira sounds just like our Nellie when she screams her displeasure at anyone walking on our sidewalk. Izzy is much more blasé about other dogs and people. They are both total sweeties and of course, as the local treat dealer in the neighborhood, have always been happy to see me out and about. They have temporarily moved since the big fire, not because of any damage to their home, but other things that prompted the move. Fortunately, the fire victims who moved in brought their own fur babies for me to ooh and ahh over (picture of little Hugo forthcoming). Nellie has been promised a zoomie session with her buds soon, so that will be a welcome delight.

Blooming like a bomb

Blooms are a blooming and this is one I've never seen before. I believe it is in the agave family, but don't quote me on that. Usually when one blooms, it is the death knell. I sincerely hope I'm wrong this time.

Sidewalk art is still art

Heading over to see my favorite little dog (Nick of course), and came upon this amazing chalk drawing. There are several people who use chalk on the sidewalks to liven them up or leave messages, but I've never seen one as artistic as this piece. The detail is stunning.

Sooo --you're telling me this is the reason for your trip? Awesome!

One of the things I miss about the Bay Area is the ocean views. Playing ball in Alta Plaza Park with the best of all dogs in the universe, Barney, overlooking the bay, was the highlight of my day. Walking along the beach in the Marina while Barney chased seagulls, volunteering at the Marine Mammal Center, or visiting the Presidio Yacht Club to go for a sail with my parents were uplifting experiences. To me, the ocean is magical, mysterious, and endlessly fascinating. Therefore, when a friend who lives in Washington state sent me pictures of her week away with her husband and best friend, I felt quite envious and nostalgic for the old days. Of course, when you know who her bestie is, and that she was the purpose for that particular destination, you will forgive her as quickly as I did.

This is the best friend - Bailey. And yes, she's gorgeous. Just look at those eyes.

OK--time for a biology lesson

People understandably look at me as if I have finally gone completely 'round the bend, but I believe that plants, trees in particular, actually have a kind of sentience. We might not understand it or even know what we're looking for (or at),  but the idea that plants have intelligence and feelings is now not so far-fetched as people think. More and more research is being done with minds open to the possibility probability. Findings are showing that mushrooms have more in common with humans and act as the neural network for trees. Let's face it, human beings have been rather ego-centric when it comes to life on the planet and science hasn't been kind even to our own. It wasn't until 1987 that the American Academy of Pediatrics FINALLY admitted that children under the age of six months felt pain. Performing procedures on infants without anesthesia was common, and if they wailed, well, that was something else going on. Blatant evidence right in front of their eyes and.... Don't get me started on how science has treated the mentally ill, certain racial groups, and, lest we forget, animals. To put it politely -- not well.

The Hidden Life of Trees by Peter Holleben started me thinking even more deeply about my theory of sentience, and discussions with arborists, who didn't treat me like a nut job, kept the idea alive. Lately, BBC Wildlife Magazine has been putting out more articles that relate to the subject. If you can't follow the links to the articles, your local library probably has access to the magazines electronically. 

As a species, we need to do better. We need to realize that just because something doesn't look or move or sound like us, it doesn't mean there are no feelings. We just need to do better!

“A new layer of complexity”: scientists record bioelectrical tree communication during solar eclipse
A new study carried out in Italy's Dolomite Mountains provides further evidence that trees are capable of complex communication, say researchers. April 30, 2025 Cycles of light and dark impact almost all living things, and events such as eclipses can cause noticeable changes in how they act and function. While these impacts are well studied in animals, we still know very little about how plants respond to solar eclipses. Now, in a new study carried out in Italy's Dolomite Mountains, researchers

Read in BBC Wildlife Magazine: https://apple.news/AJ-JOouLsS1qASoNonay-Iw

Are plants clever? Just how do plants make decisions?
How do plants know what to do if they don't have a brain or a nervous system? We investigate April 28, 2025 Plants respond to gravity and the presence of water, light and chemicals - and even to touch. But how do they do this with no brain or nervous system? Botanists are not sure. Their best explanation is that they contain many of the same substances that in animal cells, such as nerves, signal changes in physical states, prompting a response. Why do flowers point up or down? Scientists

Read in BBC Wildlife Magazine: https://apple.news/AHE_3niGJSrmiev2qD-XWzw

Can't help the cuteness

As those who follow my mutterings know, Nellie has a dog park boyfriend named Scotty whose greatest pleasure is chasing the ball. Nellie's greatest pleasure used to be chasing Scotty. That dynamic has changed somewhat as Nellie has decided that barking and herding every other dog she sees is much more to her taste. So while she's always very excited to see Scotty and chase after him occasionally, it's not the hot romance it was. Frankly, I don't understand how she can resist this wonderful hunk of burning love.

 

Now, on this coast we have big furry friends, and on the East Coast, there are two senior dogs who find that snuggling into their comfy beds a much better plan. Lenny and Jack live in New York and Florida (yes, they have two abodes). They are tucked for the long drive between houses. Lucky dogs. And they are adorably sweet.