The howling wind

blew all day yesterday, making the sky orange with the dust from the cotton fields. I listened to it roar and beat up against the house as I stitched last night. This morning, I headed off to work...........the air was chilly,

but all was quiet and clear. This afternoon, I stepped outside from work and the hectic day melted away as the pleasant afternoon wrapped itself around me. I got home and took a walk out to visit the flowers that are now blooming this time of year.These visits to the grounds make me forget about the old grumpy man who never likes the way I make his hashbrowns, even though his plate looks as if he has licked it clean upon leaving.........or the grumbling customer...........complaining that the cafe's bacon is not thick enough.........sigh........

It all melts away in the warmth of the afternoon sunshine......

The mums are cascading over their wooden crate and are so cheery in the sunshine.

The marigold garden is showing off it's vibrant fall colors. It is almost November, yet, today the temperature is 86 degrees and flowers are all over the grounds here at Pleasant Prairie.............. one could never tell that winter is almost here. I walk alone in silence and take it all in...............however, I realize, I am not alone.............

among the thick leaves and beautiful blossoms, many insects are making themselves comfortable...........and taking advantage of the sunny and pleasant weather.



even the wasp, who are usually sluggish and crawling on the ground this time of year, are enjoying what the flowers have to offer.

Butterflies of every kind are flitting in and out of the gardens,

and I should be upset for all of the creatures enjoying a bite or two..............but how can I resist such curious creatures??................ I know it won't be long and all of this as well as they...........will be gone for winter's deep sleep.

Looks like someone is already enjoying a good nap.

Even the wildflowers here on the prairie are not ready to go away. They bloom and grow among the dry grass and dirt.

I visited a local farmers market this weekend, and fell in love with one of the vendor's pumpkin wagons. She had pumpkins of every size and shape. I bought a few and hope to save the seed for next year's planting.

This is a gourd of some kind, I could not resist taking it home. It looks almost like a granny smith apple, however, it is fairly large.

This pumpkin has the most unusual color and shape.My husband said it looks like a gigantic tick...............sigh..........just goes to show that not everyone has the same idea of beauty................. so I tucked it into my arms and brought it home.

Now........................how about you??

Are you still having sunny days and pretty weather.............where ever you are?

Are your gardens or yard filled with creatures great and small?

What kind of pumpkins are you decorating with this fall?

I would love to hear!