In the Pink

Echinacea is one of my favorite native plants because it starts blooming fairly early and continues blooming right through to late summer.  Early in the season, it provides a pollen-rich food source for bees and other pollinators and this time of year, it becomes of great interest to the finches, especially the American Goldfinches.  The goldfinches are the last of our songbirds to breed, timing their single brood to coincide with the ripening of thistle seeds (and echinacea).  The males are still in their vibrant breeding plumage as seen here - no adjustments made.  And what a nice bonus to catch a bumble bee in the frame!

Had a nice long FT chat with my parents this morning before they headed out on a walk and I set out to do some errands.  I picked up my first local watermelon of the season as well as some local peaches at one of our nearby farms.  Their peaches have been especially good this summer and I'm anxious to tuck into the watermelon!  

Much cooler today and for the rest of the week.  Planning to meet up a friend tomorrow morning for a walk which should be fun.

xoxo
Debbi