Sunday, June 22, 2014

1515

Yesterday, the first day of summer, the day length was 15 hours, 15 minutes here in the Binghamton area of upstate New York.

The past couple of days, we have had incredible weather - sunshine, warm (but not overpowering warm), relatively low humidity.  I am not a heat lover, as much as I hate our upstate New York winters.

Yes, this is weather that makes me want to just sit back and listen to the birds.  Or, walk.  So my spouse and I did both (plus worked some in our flower gardens) and took note (and photos) of the first day of summer.

Catalpas, a native tree to our area, are in bloom.
On the Vestal Rail Trail, where my spouse and I do some of our exercise walking, sumac spikes stand up like decorative flowers.  Last year, the sumacs didn't look happy.  This year, they are bursting forth with vigor.
Smoooooth sumac for a smooth day..

Elderberry in bloom.
The animals were out, too.  Groundhogs grow fat and happy (or at least fat) along the Vestal Rail Trail. This one may be drawing plans on my garden, because they always do.
At home, a mourning dove cooed in the late afternoon sunshine.

And, the daylight ended in the glow of a setting sun reflecting off white marigolds.

Tomorrow is Haiku Day in this year's Blogathon I am participating in.  Tuesday, I will summarize my success (or not) in thinking about blogging a book about experiences in advocacy for "B", my brother in law with autism.  Wednesday will be my first Wednesday summer feature of the year.

What are you enjoying today?

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11 comments:

  1. AnaJune 22, 2014 at 2:15 PM

    I too am enjoying the first great days of summer but in Scotland rather than upstate New York. You posted some beautiful pictures. I hope you enjoy the rest of the mild summer weather.

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    1. bookwormJune 25, 2014 at 8:51 PM

      I'm happy you enjoyed my photos. I have a friend who visited Scotland earlier this month. She's visited several times over the years as she has a high school friend who lives there now. You have a lovely country.

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  2. Sophie BownsJune 22, 2014 at 3:01 PM

    I'm really enjoying the summer here in the UK! We're certainly going to be making the most of it, we've had a gorgeous few days! :-)

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    1. bookwormJune 25, 2014 at 8:52 PM

      I'm glad you've had good weather. I hope it continues!

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  3. UnknownJune 22, 2014 at 10:07 PM

    This is quite a great summer! I love the cute Groundhogs, I haven't seen one on real..A very inspiring morning ;)

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    1. bookwormJune 25, 2014 at 8:53 PM

      It's a great morning when you see wildlife. Groundhogs, alas, are a big garden pest here in upstate New York - I hope that happy groundhog stays on the walking trail and away from gardens.

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  4. UnknownJune 22, 2014 at 10:09 PM

    Groundhogs are so cute! Your summer sounds fun, would love to visit my hometown this coming summer. Very inspiring!

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  5. Meow Meow KittieJune 23, 2014 at 3:02 AM

    It was a lovely day here in Philly, and doggy and I took a few long walks and enjoyed the summer weather. Loved your pictures! You really capture the glory of these warm days perfectly!

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    1. bookwormJune 25, 2014 at 8:54 PM

      Thank you for your praise. I'm glad you were able to get out with your dog. With a dog, you walk whether you want to or not - dogs do have a way of making sure we do get out!

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  6. Sophie BownsJune 23, 2014 at 11:00 AM

    The first picture is my favourite, but all the plants are so beautiful!
    It's another beautiful day here.
    I was off work today, so I've spent a great deal of time watching "White Collar" and writing outside!
    BLISS!

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    1. bookwormJune 25, 2014 at 8:54 PM

      It's fun to have a down day, just lazing around (and reading my blog, of course).

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