Double click the photo for a larger view to easily see the fossilized shells in the stone. The stone was brought from Wilcox County for use in a local garden. The Black Belt area of Alabama once was covered by shallow water, and fossils of marine life are fairly easy to find.
Does this flower strike a resemblance to nestled doves?
The Columbine flower is named for the Latin columba, which refers to doves. Apparently, the people who chose the name think the flower appears to look like five doves nestled together. The scientific name, Aquilegia, is derived for the Latin word for eagle, since the appendages looks like its outstretched talons. Others think it looks like a jester's cap. To me, it's as exotic as an orchid. This purple columbine resides in the garden of Selma Master Gardener Carol Henry.
Unless you have hay fever, nothing smells much sweeter than fresh-cut hay.
It's hay cutting time in Central Alabama, and this week should be a lot drier than last, so maybe the new hay won't get wet!
Fresh tomatoes, squash and peppers plus will soon be ready for the Old Town neighbors who planted and worked this community garden. They planted the garden on a vacant lot, and recent heavy rains are keeping it growing.
Community gardens not only reduce household food budgets and provide healthy vegetables, they beautify neighborhoods, encourage social interaction, recreation and exercise.
Thanks to Old town guest photographer Christine Weerts the picture.
I caught this turtle plodding along in the backyard one day last week. Nearby, a cat circled him or her but decided it was best to leave the turtle alone. Good choice!
See more critters from other exotic locations HERE.
Who among dog and cat owners wouldn't like a peaceful resting place nearby for their deceased furry family members?
I visited this backyard pet cemetery yesterday, sheltered beneath shade trees and filled with flowers and greenery. The boy-and-his-dog statue just set the mood for remembering loyal companions that have passed on.
Note the large sandstone tombstones. They are foundation stones recovered from old homesteads.
Local Master Gardener Carol Henry kindly allowed me to traipse through her garden this morning, and when I first saw these long, finger-like blossoms, I thought this was a butterfly bush. But, it's a small Vitex (or Chaste) tree.
The Chaste berries have quite a history as a folk remedy for treating a variety of medical conditions, including regulation of hormones in women.
Double click the picture for a larger view, and look for more beautiful flowers from Carol's garden right here this summer!
Happy Birthday to Selma's most famous tale teller!
Kathryn Tucker Windham is 92 today.
I took this picture of her two years ago when the whole town celebrated her 90th at the library. Kathryn started her writing career as a reporter and later became famous for her ghost stories. She's authored many other books about Selma and the South, as well as publishing beautiful photographs and delectable recipes. But she may be best known as a nationally acclaimed tale teller. And at 92, she still writes and speaks!
Does anyone know what kind of hydrangea this is?
Rather than the petals forming round balls, they grow in flat clusters.
Thanks to guest photographer Christine Weerts for sending this picture!
What could be prettier on the first day of June than daylilies, brilliant orange, almost red daylilies? They really pop amid the green foliage and white picket fence.
Thanks to guest photographer Christine Weerts.
