Our little faithful raccoon family was quite busy recently scavenging and making friends with the skunk.

The latest monsoon rains have absolutely electrified the gardens and sent us heirloom tomatoes, okra, basil, peaches, and pears. Mind you, we are NOT putting Del Monte out-of-biz, but these darlings good-looks are exceeded only by their full-bodied flavour.

Summer continues to wend its way through August and we still feel monsoon-cheated. We are pleased that this little family is finding food and most importantly water. Indulge us by enjoying them yet again.

Well finally, and what seems to be months too late, we were visited by our first raccoon family this year. Mama brought her four kindergarteners for their premier visit and training session in foraging and tree-climbing.

This summer’s blooms have not been as spectacular and prolific as years past so when we are given a show-stopper like this dahlia it truly gets our attention.

Although the ladybugs have been in short supply, we have a few other neighbors keeping themselves busy this month. With our datura in full regalia where it volunteers in the veggie shed, a praying mantis has taken up housekeeping.

With summer in full swing, we are not only rain dancing for another round of monsoons but praying the gods send more ladybugs whose favorite snacks are the dreaded aphids that attack the new rose growth. This girl needs to chow down!

With July in full swing heat-wise, our feline crewmates, Latte Papa, Fiona Papillon, and our new youngster Braveheart Primo are redefining the proper approach to the CAT DAYS OF SUMMER!

During the beginning of a long, hot summer, we look for and relish our little miracles and pleasures where we can. Miss Fiona Scritchies Papillon has established a drive-in theatre vantage point (replicating her time at Allen’s when we left the cat video channel on for her in our absence but this time for REAL) behind the honey shack from which she can monitor all feeding station visitors.

June has barely begun and here comes summer in all its spicey glory. Latte Papa has taken up back door greeting duties.