A Sixty minute hike!

 

Because of the hot weather and a foot that has bothered me, I've made more sixty minute hikes this summer.

Mourning Dove (on the trail! I had to say Shooo to get it to move!)

It's hard for me to make that turn, 

I always want to go a little bit farther.

But it's been good for me I think.

Dotted Horsemint in full bloom

I've definitely enjoyed getting out in nature whenever I can, for any length of time!

And we've had some funny sightings around the house lately too.

Who wouldn't want a little red MG delivered to the front door?

Our neighbor has a 'new ride' now!

And this Red-shouldered Hawk perched on the roof across the street.

To get ready for Fall....

this black cat walked all the way around our house.

Does that ward off goblins and ghouls?

Can't hurt! lol

Sixty minutes is enough time to get some good exercise and experience nature. (that's a forest monster not me!)

Has it cooled off at your house this month?

Are you ready for Fall?

I’m joining Saturday’s critters HERE

  and Mosaic Monday HERE !

Catching up with the Sandhill Crane family!

 It's always fun to drive out to Halpata Tastanaki Preserve and hike the trail from the Pruitt trailhead.

And there are usually good sightings when you drive in the front gate.

I was happy to see the Sandhill Crane family, alive and well.

It was funny though when I stopped and hopped out of the Jeep to take the photos. 

My camera fogged over from all of the humidity!

But I waved it around and luckily the Crane family stayed close by their photo shoot!

I think this bird is a young Mockingbird.

It always confuses me because they seem more tan than gray.

I KNOW what this bird is! haha!

Northern Cardinal

I thought this was a small grasshopper with really long antennas but now I wonder if it a katydid. Anyone know?

Lots of beautiful plants and wildflowers this summer.

We've had summer pop up showers and that helps.

Oh and now we've finished the hike and I'm driving the Jeep back out on the gravel road.

And look what I saw!

Papa Crane was crossing the road ahead of me. Mama and young one were already across. I slowed down and waited!

Have a wonderful weekend! Take your time!

I’m joining Saturday’s critters HERE

  and Mosaic Monday HERE !