Escapees in the Night

Last night at about 1:30, the dogs woke me from a very deep sleep. John was peering out the window and having no luck in quieting the dogs. Then I heard him say those dreaded words: I think the horses got out. Okay...contacts are thrown into the eyes, a sweater thrown over the t-shirt that I sleep in, and out the door with bare legs and bare feet. It is still very chilly here at night! Haley (not pictured) was quickly returned to her stall, but these two beasties (Thunder on the left, Sunshine on the right) were too busy munching on rye grass in the side yard and took more persuasion. Everyone was returned to the barn relatively quickly though with only one accident: Haley managed to find time to kick John, but he is okay. Ah, the grass is always greener on the other side and fresh grass is much better than hay

Southern Dewberry

The Southern Dewberries have started blooming, but it seems to me that they are later than they were last year. Though the blooms are pretty, they are prickly. The little dewberries usually show up about a month after the flowers, and the berries are edible though I've never tried them.

Ferns

Spring is definitely here...the Marsh Ferns and Southern Lady Ferns at the edge of the swamp are making their appearance. Soon the water will not be able to be seen from the house because the ferns will have taken over. The swamp will appear to be non-existent except for the sounds of wildlife, the hum of mosquitoes, and the roar of the frogs. I love the ferns, but I will dearly miss the austerity of the swamp's winter clothes.