Here comes summer!

The weather is starting to heat up in the Northeast bringing humidity and warmer nights. But after our very long winter, who can complain?!? The peonies in my back yard are just starting to bloom, and already, their weight is pulling them down to earth.

I've started The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt and it is wonderful. I like to read at night, and I tell myself just one more page, and then off to sleep. That usually means another ten pages! If you want something long and captivating, try this book.

The binding on my large tree and bird rug is complete. The next step is to add some roving as eyes on the birds. I also want to fill the nest with felted eggs to give it a three-dimensional look. This will be a good project for today, as it looks like it may rain all afternoon. Here is a partial view of the rug laid out on the bed. Once it is hung, I'll take a full shot of it.

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Just a reminder that you can find my wool on Etsy:

Woolly Mammoth Woolens

Spent yesterday morning at The Wilton Wildlife Preserve. A 2.5-mile hike that was disappointing as far as spotting birds went. Saw only a few common birds, and really didn't see much movement in the trees. However, it was great for daily exercise. I have a fit bit and clocked in 7000 steps on this hike alone.

My bird of the week is the Barn Swallow. My brother and I took a ride through some backroads where you can find several thoroughbred horse farms. Needless to say, the open barns allowed the swallows easy access, and the bird activity in and out was quick-paced! Also saw several Eastern Bluebirds (the state bird of New York). They are so pretty with their bright blue backs and wings and their orange underbellies.

The backyard is humming with activity. Squirrels, rabbits, chipmunks, and birds! For the past two days, we've been plagued with Common Grackles. They came in a huge flock and ravaged the feeders, driving the small birds away. Although they are a beautiful bird with their purple and blue iridescence, I finally removed the feeders for the morning. I put them back later in the day, and so far, so good.

Hope you have a lovely weekend. Our huge Flag Day Parade is tomorrow (Saturday). Looking forward to it!