Hairy Willow Herb

This is the only Hairy Willow Herb ( Epilobium hirsutum)  plant that we have on our property, and , in fact, is the only one that I have seen anywhere in our area. It grows to about 3' tall and only has a few flowers at a time. According to Wikipedia, it usually grows in damp spots.  This one gets shade in the morning but the soil would be a bit on the dry side . It was never watered and survived our dry summer just fine.  The roots would have been shaded by the beebalm growing around it.  Hopefully, it will self-sow and I'll have more of it growing around.  Other names for it are : codlins-and-cream, apple-pie, and cherry-pie.  It isn't a true native to NA but it is in Europe, South Africa and Asia. 

Etched against the Sky

 The old branches still reflect the sunlight and brighten the sky.

 Like a group of dancers, the trees sway in freeze-frame.

Woody arteries

Young'uns are back.

 

 The mares and foals were in a different field for most of the summer, but now they're back where I can see them . The dark baby was light brown when he was born, and now he is so dark it's hard to imagine that his mother is a palomino.

 "Let's all eat together.  But wait a minute - you're not my Mom.  Where's Mom?"

 "There she is! Wait up, Mom. Here I come!"

 Obviously not an overly anxious mom. She has a brand on her shoulder so she most likely comes from out West and started life as a cow pony. 

Early September Colours

 Before the flashy colours of the hardwoods that show in late September and October,  the landscapes still display many pleasing colours - yellow, greens, purples, reds.

 And nobody planted this beautiful garden.

 After the rain we've had, the fields are vibrant green again.

 A handsome blue barn/garage.

The asters are like early snow in the weedy patches.

White Aster

White asters are in full bloom.
I've been having some computer issues-hope they are resolved.

Wild Aster

Wild aster

For Labour Day

                           Men Who Whistle

Men who whistle as they work
Blow us back in time
To fresh air, and strong muscles.
Men who were overcomers
Like eagles soaring on the updrafts
High above the drudgery.
Men who whistle
Laugh in the face of challenge.
They have a song in their hearts
That won't be stilled.
They know who they are
And they know the song
They are meant to sing.