...AND THIS PICTURE IS?

The photo at right depicts a natural means of reproduction. The object is made of a woody-like fiber and found in a variety of designs, often in great abundance, in a coniferous setting. Max can see lots of these in the upper picture.

Of course, it is a close-up peek at a pine cone.

When pine cones are first produced they usually are green and closed tightly. As they mature they will dry to a brown color and open somewhat like a concentric Venetian blind, thus allowing the winged-seeds within to be scattered by the wind to form the progeny of our future pine forests.

PLUS A NEWS FLASH—

Momma and Poppa Canada Goose are celebrating the arrival of five chicks that hatched in their island nest Friday. No chick shower has been announced.

AND A NOTICE—

Sunday’s blog posting likely will be delayed. A camping trip is scheduled to commence this afternoon and the destination campground does not have internet service. Please check back Sunday afternoon. Sorry for the inconvenience.