Hi Susan and welcome. This is such a fun and interesting place to be whether you're a newbie or expert, and I agree, the photos are outstanding and I appreciate those who share their talent. I started backyard bird watching many years ago and it has become my hobby and passion so to speak. The beautiful friends who visit my yard bring so much pleasure. Get a few bird books if you don't already have any. Mine include books that not only help identify them, but cover lots of info about food preferences, nesting habitats, nesting cycles, etc. I pretty much know what my birds like to eat! Then put up a few feeders...there are many styles offered for various seeds and other foods. Believe me, once you get started, you'll be amazed at how many different birds you can attract. Too, this forum (along with the bluebird and hummer forums next door) are loaded with veteran birdwatchers who provide valuable info and will answer any questions...and you'll love the many bird "stories" that are shared here. BTW, what kind of seed did you put in your feeder? Donna

It depends on the VA hospital. The one in Boise ID seems to be great. My brother in law was in it before he passed away with Huntington's Disease. We did go and see him several time and he (and the hospital) were always very clean, room excellent, personal just great This was several years ago. Friend taken to VA hospital in AZ near Cottonwood, treated so bad, discharged to crappy nursing home in Kingman AZ, lasted only few weeks. Not sure why. Another BIL was in VA hospital in Tuscon and he got good service, but he would not cooperate with either Dr/s or staff etc. Got out and really caused the family problems. Because of staffing cuts, money cuts, many of the VA hospitals are just not as good as they use to be. It is like dealing with a HMO , you take charge, you make the decisions and stand tough.DO NOT let them decide what Dr. There is always someone above and they will do anything to just medicate the person to """make""" the problem and people go away. Yes I have seen this done in some VA hospitals. Who ever goes with FIL, take a notebook, write everything down, names, titles, times, attitude, etc. If necessary record conversations. Has he had a complete medical work? If not, make sure he does. Just keep pushing. Sorry to be so adamant, but if we do not stand up for the veterans who will.

Thanks everyone, you are so nice! Mo, if your work won't yell at you for poaching their shrubbery, I'd definitely cut some branches! Burning Bush is so vibrant. In case you're in the market for these, I got the pumpkins from Hobby Lobby the other day. They are the plain white ceramic craft type that you are supposed to paint. I just filled in the indentions on the stems and highlighted a little bit of the grooves with watered down brown paint. To keep the white from getting damaged too much, I sprayed them with clear satin poly. MUCH less expensive than the fancy white ceramic pumpkins that were already done. The larger one was $4, and I bet the craft stuff will go on sale soon making them even more affordable.

Barb, Sorry my post didn't stay here on Wed. so I'll say it again. You fit right in with all your beautiful tables and decorations. Kitty is so cute and posed so nice for the photoshot. Your pumpkin center piece is fantastic. Did you make it? I loved your mantel and mirror decorations and how clever with your pumpkin candle holder you created. I just loved browsing your blog. You will fit in perfect with all these talented ladies. So happy to have you and it will also be fun to have your friend join. Punk