House Finch

While we're on the subject of backyard birds (from yesterday's post of the hummingbird) here's a photo of one of our local House Finches taking a break from the crowd at the feeder. He was posing so prettily yesterday I couldn't resist taking a photo of him.

Spring Bouquet

This little House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus) looks perfectly at home amongst the blossoms on this old apple tree. As one wanders among the bushy overgrown areas on this coast the remains of derelict orchards are often encountered. The early settlers' houses and gardens may have completely disappeared but the orchards remain. Not so long ago everyone had an orchard or at least a few fruit trees on their property to provide fruit that could be eaten fresh and preserved for the winter. It's a good idea.