Nature Encounters

“Rest, nature, books, music—such is my idea of happiness.” – Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910)

Rainbow Scarab (Phanaeus vindex)

I’m not sure where she was going but I found her upside down on the sidewalk.  I did help her get right side up then realize how colorful she was in the sun.  Supposedly the males are even more colorful than this one.

Enjoying Nature

I am sharing a few photos that I took this week. Take time to relax and enjoy the outdoors.   The cooler temperatures are peeking through the heat of summer here in Alabama.  Cooler nights with lower humidity mark the coming possibility for more camping!  Take time. Wear sunscreen. Enjoy nature.

When a Fly Dresses Like a Bee

Caught this funky little insect hanging out on one of my tomato plants today—turns out it’s a Tiger Bee Fly. Looks like a bee, acts like a fly, and has a wild backstory. Nature’s full of surprises.

Light Through the Alder Grove — July 4th

There’s something sacred about the quiet hush of early morning—when the world hasn’t quite woken up, leaf blowers are quiet, and the sun light filters softly through the trees like a quiet promise. This morning, on the Fourth of July, I stepped outside with a cup of iced coffee in hand. Even in the early…

Marbled Orb-weaver Spider

While hiking this past weekend, I came across a Marbled Orb-weaver spider—a real eye-catcher! This plump little spider had a vibrant orange and yellow marbled pattern on its abdomen, making it look almost like a tiny pumpkin. Marbled Orb-weavers are common in woodsy areas during the fall and are known for their big, beautiful webs….