This is my 95-year-old neighbor. He's been living alone since his wife passed away from cancer, and not long ago, he also lost his loyal companion dog. Now, every day, our chicken Hei Hei escapes the yard just to visit him. She sits with him, accepts treats, and lets him pet her like an old friend. It’s almost like she knows he needed someone, and somehow, she decided it would be her.

 

I saw my first wolf spider over 30 years ago on my back patio loaded with about 100 babies, I was so impressed I left her alone, about a week later I found her again near the Azalea's, she and her brood were eating a black spider and earwigs. From then on she and brood were allowed to live in peace with me and her descendants still do.

 

These are “Orb Weaver” spiders. They are large (about 1/2” to 3/4” body length), and they usually appear in late summer and early fall. Right about now, in other words. This is their time of year to build webs and find mates.

They are 99% HARMLESS TO HUMANS. THEIR VENOM IS NON-TOXIC TO US. THEY ARE DOCILE AND NON-AGGRESSIVE. THEY ALMOST NEVER, EVER EVEN BITE!!!!

I know they’re scary looking, but they are our allies, not enemies. They devour insect pests that plague us. Also, they're mostly active at night - they rest in their webs during the day.

This chick already looks like it’s seen too much

The shoebill stork is famous for its serious expression, but here the chick seems to have inherited the same grumpy face from day one. Standing side by side with its parent, the little one looks like a miniature version, already practicing the family’s iconic death stare.

Shoebills may look intimidating, but their chicks are clumsy, curious, and full of personality. Still, moments like this — where both bird and chick glare into the camera — are pure comedy.

The most shocking thing: even as fluffy babies, shoebills already carry the same prehistoric presence. It’s as if they skip the “cute” stage and jump straight to looking ancient and wise.

|Credit: Wildframe|

 

When I pass, and my atoms are free, I hope they explore the universe I've longed to see.

"I am firm, you are obstinate, I win, you lose."

 

                If it comes, let it. If it goes, let it.

 

 

Sometimes chasing your thoughts is rewarding, especially if you catch one. 

Be content with your own company. . . You will find peace there.

May you touch dragonflies, and stars, dance with magic feet, and talk to the moon . . .

This is the face of a Nautilus, a living fossil that has roamed the oceans for over 500 million years — almost unchanged since the age of dinosaurs!