Pink and perfect

A few of these beautiful African Daisies (Osteospermum fruticosum, I think) were growing in one of the greenhouses at the Saskatoon Farm. My youngest daughter treated me to a great day out on Saturday, 24 May 2014, for my birthday, which was actually the following day (yesterday), but I had the annual May Species Count all day yesterday.

After trying to find a few birds close to Frank Lake, SE of Calgary, we then went to the Saskatoon Farm for a delicious lunch and to wander the grounds with our cameras. Felt so good to see colourful flowers after such a long, brutal winter. Thanks so much, Rachel, for such an enjoyable day!

www.saskatoonfarm.com/

Yesterday's annual May Species Count went really well. There were seven people in my group and we travelled in two vehicles, covering a large area SW of Calgary and W of Priddis. The Count lasted from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and the weather was mostly clear but clouded up by noon, with a short shower while we were having lunch at Brown-Lowery Provincial Park. Heavy clouds for the rest of the day, calm, 9-18°C. with 88km travelled by car. 69 bird species were found, plus 15 White-tailed Deer and two Moose. A good day : ) Thanks for the ride, Phil! Much appreciated!

Today, 26 May 2014, is Memorial Day in the US.

"Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the men and women who died while serving in the country's armed forces. The holiday, which is celebrated every year on the last Monday of May, was formerly known as Decoration Day and originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the war. By the 20th century, Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who have died while in the military service. It typically marks the start of the summer vacation season, while Labor Day marks its end.

Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who have died in military service. Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries." From Wikipedia.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Memorial_Day