We continue to be blessed by the extraordinary monsoons that allow Mother Earth to help everything to thrive. And everyone is getting along which as it should be.

Our little raccoon family returned just days after their first visit and look at what quick and precocious learners the kids are. Just days ago, mom was helping everybody and now they are VERY BIG kiddos.

If you have an aversion to saying “ooooh” and “aaaaah” I suggest that you stop reading this post right this minute! We were just commenting that it must have been an unfortunate year for any raccoon family as we hadn’t seen babies yet and lo and behold, look who visited us last evening. . .mama and FIVE babes!

The elusive Miss Jemima Pearl was caught at ‘her post.’ Our night blooming cereus gave us its ALL yet again and our family of skunks is just beyond belief. The little guy who has puffed himself up can’t be as long as a size 8 ladies’ shoe! He looks like a stuffed toy. . .

Take a look at who July has perfectly paired in the love arena outside.

Once again Joshua and I enjoyed the good fortune of an opportunity to hang the ‘gone fishin’ sign and trekked to Phoenix where we honed our koi-herding and transporting skills, returning with 8 glorious beauties!

The monsoons brought just a few minutes of hail which was just enough to pockmark our lily pads but look at the sweeties that waited to bloom until after that storm.

You may get weary of my child-like delight and surprise at what presents itself in the gardens and yard but I love these treats.

Look what the frenzied chaos of summer is bringing us.

Walk and peek with me . . .