Thistle

As much as I dislike thistle, there are insects that benefit from this plant. The goal, though, is to cut these flowers off just before they start to go to seed. Otherwise, there will be even more patches of thistle which would not be good.

Wild Columbine

This columbine is a native plant and is both in our gardens and under the pine trees on the east side of the farm. They also can be seen in ditches unless the city does an early mowing and cuts them down. It's unfortunate when they do this. Not only are these plants cut, but native milkweed - which monarchs depend on - are also destroyed.

Honeysuckle

A couple years ago, I planted a honeysuckle for the hummingbirds. This year, the flowers are prolific. I'm hoping that the hummingbirds find the honeysuckle and use it as one of their food sources. Bees and bumblebees also visit the honeysuckle.

Prairie Smoke

The Prairie Smoke has moved to the stage where its plumes look like smoke. This is one of my favorite native plants. They are doing exceptionally well this year.

Eastern Bluestar

The Eastern Bluestar - a native perennial - is blooming. I love its delicate flowers and subtle blue coloring. 

Public Art in London - Day 8

Upon returning to London from Scotland, I had some time to explore eastern London. This was an unexpected surprise with the amount of public art - sculptures, impromptu art that has turned permanent, and murals. 

Edinburgh - Day 7

On the seventh day of our England-Scotland trip, we spent time in Edinburgh. Enjoyed hearing the bagpipers and seeing the beauty of St. Giles Cathedral.

Portobello, Scotland - Day 6

About 20 minutes from Edinburgh is the city of Portobello. It is along the North Sea and quite beautiful. Locals and tourists alike come to the beach to relax, swim, and sail. 

Edinburgh, Scotland - Day 6

After taking the train from London to Edinburgh, we explored Calton Hill. There were many historical buildings on the hill along with a stunning view of the city. 

London - Day 5

 A highlight of Friday was seeing Westminster Abbey and attending a service in the late-afternoon.

London - Day 4

Olivia and I visited the Globe Theatre today. The fence had a variety of animal sculptures. Afterwards, we went to Tate Modern and then to St. Paul Cathedral where we climbed up to the top - all 528 steps!

Kew Botanical Gardens - Day 3

 On the third day in London, I went to Kew Botanical Gardens while my family did other activities that were more of interest to them. 

The diversity of plants was something I knew would be something fascinating. I had no idea, however, that there would be plants from all over the world that could survive in the climate in England. I also especially enjoyed the water lilies, cacti, and endangered plants.

London - Day 2

When we booked the tickets to come to London, we did not know that it was during the time of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. We were able to see rehearsals for the parade that will happen later in the week.

We also went to St. James' Park and saw beautiful flowers and waterfowl. To close out the day, we saw the road of Tower Bridge be lifted to let boats pass.