Mimosas

There are quite a few mimosa trees here, and they are still in bloom now. Many consider them an invasive nuisance plant. But they are so beautiful! The bark, leaves and flowers have been used for centuries in Chinese medicine. The bark is still known as 'Collective Happiness Bark', allegedly providing a spiritual boost for those who take it. Lets take closer and closer looks!

If only we’d stop trying to be happy, we could have a pretty good time. ~Edith Wharton

The Skull

This giant skull sits beside the highway. It marks the entrance to the art park. For many years, it was just plain metal. Recently it was painted. Which way do you like it best?

 “When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left.  Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.”

Luke 23

The Tigers Are Here!

The Tiger Lilies are all in bloom now!

These berries are called bulbils. They are the developing bulbs. They will fall to the ground and be pollinated. By the way, the bulbs taste like potatoes, and are popular to eat in Japan.

Tyger Tyger, burning bright, 

In the forests of the night; 

What immortal hand or eye, 

Could frame thy fearful symmetry? 

When the stars threw down their spears 

And water'd heaven with their tears: 

Did he smile his work to see? 

Did he who made the Lamb make thee? 

 WILLIAM BLAKE

Dusty

Who knew that donkeys like dust baths? I didn't, till I saw it with my own eyes.

 Going down!

He's really getting into it!

Must feel really good.

All refreshed now. Time for a gallop!

“The dust returns to the ground it came from,

    and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”

Ecclesiastes 12

“But your dead will live, Lord; their bodies will rise— let those who dwell in the dust wake up and shout for joy…”

Isaiah 26

Fireworks

Once a year, our city has a big summer extravaganza in the park. Crafts, music, rides, etc. The city does not set off fireworks on the actual 4th. Instead, they wait until the day of the extravaganza to set them off. It is hot today, and quite a walk to the park. So we sat in the car in a nearby parking lot. I snapped them through the windshield. Which one is your favorite?

“Our God makes his entrance, he’s not shy in his coming. Starbursts of fireworks precede him.”

Psalm 50

The Bowls

Several years ago, we went to a Dale Chihuly exhibit. He is a master glass artist. But I hadn't known that he makes bowls! Well, artistic ones, not ones you would actually use. Here are a few.

Frog bowl

Green shell bowl

Bowls inside bowls!

And lastly, what I call The Darth Vader Bowl. I like the shadow better than the bowl.

“Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” Getting to his feet, he told the wind, “Silence!” and the waves, “Quiet down!” They did it. The lake became smooth as glass.”

Luke 8

Summer Donuts

Here are some of the summer themed donuts at our grocery store's bakery. Which one do YOU want to eat?

Hot dog

Butterfly

Sun

Beach

Flowers

Surf's up!

“As you ramble on through life,

Whatever be your goal,

Keep your eye upon the doughnut,

And not upon the hole.” 

― Margaret Atwood