The Bird Protector

About a month ago, my dad found a small bird on the ground outside his home. It had fallen out of the nest, so he decided to take care of it until it could fend for itself. I find it odd that he loves helping animals because he's an avid hunter. Even so, growing up, I watched him help baby birds, squirrels, rabbits, and raccoons.
After spending $45.00 or so on mail order red worms, my dad thought it was time for this little birdie to move on and fly away. This did not happen as expected. At first, the bird flew up on the roof of my dad's house and looked around with curiosity. Later, we checked and it had flown away. That was great! It was finally on it's way to a normal bird life, or so we thought. My dad called me later to say that the bird was back hungry and crying for food. So now, each time he tries to let the bird go, it comes back when it's hungry. I suppose my dad has spent close to $100.00 in worms now. This bird is eating good!

Bugs

I saw this flying around outside of our home. I'm not quite sure what kind of bug it is, even after an extensive search on Google. I don't think I have ever seen one like this before. Any ideas?

It almost looks like it's made out of cotton.

Here is another cute bug. This was found on our squash plants.

We found this visitor at our front door. A Cicada, which I hear are quite tasty. I don't think I could ever try one though. ;-)

Garden Update

Everything is looking good!

We have our first zucchini!

Here is basil for the pesto sauce I plan to make. I've found a lot of these Japanese Beetles eating away at the leaves already though. I think I might have to bring it inside.

The mystery plant is broccoli!

Tomatoes

Carrots

Balloon Flower

Colorful non-edible berries

Pond Fishing

Not so long ago, we were invited to go on a little fishing voyage with our friends. It was a lot of fun because there were so many fish close to the waters edge. Almost as soon as our poles went in, the fish would bite. That's the kind of fishing I like!

One of the many fish Drake caught.

Friend CeAnna posing with one of her fish.