Hey, who buttered my butt??

I recently posted a shot of one of these cute little yellow-rumped warblers describing how they get their name from the bright yellow patch on their butts.  So, when this one posed perfectly on the cherry tree, at eye level, butter-butt proudly displayed...easy choice for today's blip.

We had another frost overnight and I hadn't plugged the bird bath in, so it was frozen.  I quickly remedied that, refilled it, and went inside where it was warm.  Several minutes later, I glanced out and saw blue jays, robins and titmice all zipping in and out getting drinks.  It really pays to have fresh water for the birds all year.  I just replaced my old heated birdbath with a brand new one of the same model - nothing fancy but works great and keeps the bath ice-free even in the coldest of weather.  And mounts on the deck railing for easy viewing.

Four other bird shots from today starting here with a yakking warbler

The day started with a nice phone chat with my parents.  Dad is off to the dentist today with a toothache and mom is still fighting the remnants of a chest cold.  Otherwise, they are happy and hearty and enjoying warm weather in southern California at the moment.  

Hubs and I worked outside again today - finished cleaning up the gardens and I dug up 4 more lily plants.  Hauled more stuff down to our shed. Hubs took out the patio lights (which haven't worked in several years) and we took down the canopy from our deck gazebo (always hate that because it really does mean winter is just around the bend...).  We blew out the water lines on our watering system, too,.  At this point, I don't think there is much more to do in terms of getting the yard/garden ready for winter.

Had a quick glimpse of a small hawk today as he landed in the big maple next to our deck.  As quick as you could say "hawk" the little song birds scattered into the brush piles and shrubs, and the hawk flew off. Early this morning, there were 5 wild turkeys eating acorns in the yard and pileated woodpeckers calling in the woods.  

A thoroughly enjoyable day.  Hope yours was equally enjoyable.

Debbi