tangled webs

 Lots to see this time of year, and not just kitten cuteness.

Even before the leaves started changing, they were thinning out, leaving space for dramatic rays of sun to burst through.

But now we've got real change!  Just a few days ago, our hiking trail was barely touched with color...

...and now the trees around are property are fully ablaze!

Because it's been so warm, there are still plenty of insects around.  Hornets still active in their nests...

...and I'm seeing lots of spiders around.  Look away if you're spider-averse!

spiny-backed orb weaver

tiny crab spider on celosia

bright-eyed daring jumping spider

They leave their prey wound up in webs around the porch, like tiny mummies...pretty appropriate for the season.  

I was so inspired that I bought a couple yards of spider web fabric to make a skirt for next fall. No spiders, but lots of insects caught in the sticky strands...reminds me so much of late autumn!

We might have a frost next week, and we'll lose the spiders until next spring.  Well, except for the chipboard spider that I've taped to the inside of a living room lamp.  That guy will probably be around until December!  :)

We've been checking the trail cams and getting lots of deer...raccoons...possums...and, of course, our chogs.

We have SO MANY tracks in the snow here...it will be exciting to see to whom they belong!

Snow seems pretty far away, though.  It's been so mild, and it will be close to 80 this week. Unbelievably, the flower garden is rallying and putting on a lot of new growth! 

 

new yarrow getting ready to bloom

only a few dead patches of bachelor buttons

So lots of bouquets...more baking...

healthy pumpkin bread recipe from Well Plated

...and as usual, more kittens.

Blue skies, moderate temperatures, beautiful colors...have a great week!