Red White and Some Blue

This Lizzie Kate is both larger and more dense with motifs than I'd originally thought, so it's going to take me a good while to get it stitched.  That said, it's going to be awesome when it is done.

Hot weather has returned - the forecast says Mon 98, Tue 96, Wed 95, Thu 92, Fri 91, Sat 92, Sun 91---and so it goes. Not the best weather for birding or taking a nature walk.

  

But is does create nice thermals for the Turkey Vultures and hawks.  I thought the feather pattern on the wings of this hawk was especially pretty.

I am finally seeing a White-crowned Sparrow with some frequency.

Not every day, but 3 or so times a week.

And the Juncos have returned in numbers.  Some people here do not have them in the summer, but as I'm at 650' elevation, I get to see them.   

The American Goldfinches are numerous too.

They are eating thistle seeds, teasel seeds, mullein seeds, and this verbena.  

Hot days mean everyone is thirsty!  Do you see the water droplet on the chip of the male American Goldfinch? Stay hydrated everyone!