Chatham Gardens

20111011-The Highland Lighthouse, Truro, MA

2011-10-17T15:27:00.001-04:00

20111011-IMG_0482.jpg
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Its true - I love lighthouses. I find them so romantic; a structure of strength and reliability and often beauty. I visited the Highland Lighthouse in Truro, MA a few weeks ago and think it is one of the loveliest of the many Cape Cod lighthouses. If you come visit, I will take you there....

20111009-Fox at Sunrise.jpg

2011-10-09T21:48:00.001-04:00

20111009-Fox at Sunrise.jpg
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens
The case for always having a decent camera available was once again made clear to me this morning as I stopped at one of my favorite spots to enjoy my morning coffee. I come here often during the Osprey nesting season as there are two active platforms that are easily viewable. There are also tidal pools that often have various shore birds looking for a meal. I was soaking in the salty sea air and checking the marsh for a glimpse of one of nature's creatures when I was rewarded with a surprise encounter; a solitary fox who gave me - and my camera - a long inquisitive stare. This happend shortly after sunrise with the sun behind the trees to the left of the fox which accounts for the golden glow. I will return again at that golden hour and see if I can encounter my new friend again - I hope so!

20110911-Sunset from Whale Watch Boat

2011-09-13T16:13:00.001-04:00

20110911-Sunset from Whale Watch Boat
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Not all Sunsets are created equal. Was on a great Whale Watch this past Sunday which included lots of humpback whales (pictures to follow), the rising of the Harvest Moon and a lovely Sunset..

Throughout the day the air was sweet, the seas were calm and the sun stayed bright and warming for the entire trip. And when it was time to say good night, well, even that was done with style and grace. Good Night Sun!

Click on the picture to go to my Flickr site with more sunset and moonrise pictures.

20110908-Hummingbird in the Rain

2011-09-08T15:51:00.001-04:00

20110908-Hummingbird in the Rain
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

This has been a great year for hummingbirds at Chatham Gardens. I would guess I have been treated to this tiny birds presence just about every day this summer in spite of my not having a nectar feeder available for them. The flowers of Chatham Gardens have continually provided sweet treats for my tiny visitors from the first lilac and peony blooms, followed by the roses and butterfly bushes. Currently the main attraction are the dahlias, especially a brilliant and hummingbird eye catching red.

Photographing hummingbirds is a challenge I continually am attempting with varying degrees of success. On brilliantly sunny days there is enough wonderful light to use a very fast shutter speed which more easily captures the tiny bird and its rapidly fluttering wings. On overcast days such as today the results often fall short though sometimes an even less then perfect photograph can tell a story.

In today's on and off again rain I was able to capture some photographs of a sadly wet hummingbird seeking some cover in a shrub that provided almost perfect camouflage.

To the resident hummingbird - I know you'll be heading someplace warmer in the near future but I hope you will return to enjoy the shelter of Chatham Gardens in inclement weather and the nectar of our flowers in the sunshine. In the meantime I will have your picture to enjoy during the long winter here on Cape Cod and remind me what I have to look forward to next spring....

It's official - I am a Whale Watch Groupie

2011-06-23T11:56:00.002-04:00

20110620-IMG_0438.jpg
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

And this is why!

On Monday, I went out on my third whale watch this year. The first two were in May and the weather was cold, the seas were unkind and the whales were uncooperative.

But this week was different. the weather was lovely, the seas were calm and the whales were putting on a show. I missed the first breach of this group of whales because I was just awestruck by the sight and forgot I even had a cameral with me.

But they didn't stop at one - we had lots of breaches and many beautiful dives that resulted in great views of their individual flukes. From the fluke photos I was able to identify the three whales, Cajun and Centipede, both females and Polaris, a very unique male whose fluke is almost entirely black vs. the more typical black and white patterns that enable researchers to identify and track individuals.

Click on the photo and you'll see the whole set of pictures that I have from another wondrous day on a Whale Watch.

Signs of Spring

2011-02-25T08:54:00.001-05:00

2011 Birds of Chatham Gardens-85.jpg
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

While the temperatures continue to say Winter there are several signs that say the seasonal cycle is alive and well and that we will most definitely be enjoying Spring; hopefully in the near future.

To me, nothing speaks of Spring more beautifully then the sight of a pair of Bluebirds preparing a nest. A beautiful couple have been scouting out the available houses on the top of the Chatham Gardens hill and I am hopeful that one of them will be their future home.

If you click on the picture it will take you to my Flickr site where you can see lots more pictures of this beautiful pair of Bluebirds while they visit Chatham Gardens.

Sunset at a Snowbound Skaket Rock

2011-02-05T07:53:00.001-05:00

Feb 2011 Skies-4.jpg
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

One of my favorite beach destinations is Skaket Beach in Orleans, MA. It is also a favorite of all of the younger house guests due to the far receding shore at low tide which creates lots of tidal pools filled with interesting marine life to be explored, captured, handled with the occasional attempt to bring said marine life back to Chatham Gardens. Not Encouraged!!!

Not far from the high tide mark is the famous Skaket Rock - a marker of sorts which at high tide is completely submerged. Last night at sunset the rock was clearly visible surrounded by the icy landscape.

A very different picture then I see on summer days filled with bright sunshine and laughing children. But if you have been there on one of those days, just close your eyes and call up that memory. The promise of spring feels really good.

Sunrise at the beach

2011-01-30T13:06:00.001-05:00

Jan 2011 Skies-12.jpg
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I recently spent six weeks in Durham, NC and I felt homesick as I never have before. I couldn't quite put words to my feelings or be specific about what I missed. But today brought some clarity.

As I watched the sunrise at one of my favorite sunrise viewing spots - Forest Beach Conservation Area - it became crystal clear that I missed the beach, the ocean and the way the sky blazes with color before, during and immediately after the sun has risen above the horizon.

I witnessed beautiful skies in NC too but without the vast openness of the ocean and the beach the drama is minimized and it fails to wrap me in the warmth of the promise of a brand new day.

Today's sunrise filled me with peace and comfort and the promise of a day I will remember for its beauty.

A Chatham Sunrise

2010-10-30T15:43:00.001-04:00

Oct 2010 Skies-13.jpg
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

While the new day officially starts at a moment after midnight, for me it truly begins once the Sun starts to brighten the Eastern horizon. Today was one of the more magical beginnings; beautiful and mystical and inspiring. The feeling of hope for the day ahead wrapped me in warmth and I felt such joy for this beautiful place called Chatham.

Sept 2010 Whale Watch

2010-09-17T19:33:00.001-04:00

Sept 2010 Whalewatch-39.jpg
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I have been on whale watches many times, three times just this year. Each time is a totally different experience and each time I am overwhelmed with the beauty and majesty of these gorgeous creatures of our oceans.

After we had been out for close to two hours, I mentioned to my friends who joined me for the boat trip that the one thing I had never seen and hope to see soon is a breaching whale. Less then 15 minutes later we saw multiple breaches in less the 10 minutes and it was the most amazing thing I had ever experienced on a whale watch.

I almost forgot to focus the camera to take the picture; I was so in awe of what I was seeing. But I was fortunate to capture a few pictures of these graceful giants putting on a show as if the boat company had payed them to entertain the passengers. And it was a show none of us will ever forget.

And yes, I am going out again one more time this year in October. I'll bring gloves.

Sept 2010 Nauset Marsh Cruise-8.jpg

2010-09-04T09:03:00.002-04:00

Sept 2010 Nauset Marsh Cruise-8.jpg
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

The Audubon Sanctuary here on Cape Cod arranges a cruise of Nauset Marsh several times during the season. This year I have been out on the cruise 4 times with a final cruise scheduled in October.

I have come to love the marsh, with its lovely views and the diversity of its inhabitants. Its one of those settings that motivate me to continue to improve my knowledge of photography and this time was no exception. As always I deleted more the 10 pictures for every one I kept, but this particular photograph is one of my favorites. This Great White Egret was flying low over the marsh and I love the way it sort of "pops" out of the photograph.

If you click on the picture it will take you to the Flickr site with more photographs from the cruise.

Whale Watch

2010-07-20T18:40:00.001-04:00

Whalewatch video-2
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

This past Saturday I went on a whale watch out of Provincetown, Ma. It was not the first watch I have been on; in fact it was not the first one this year. But without exception it was the best one I have ever experienced.

In addition to the perfect conditions, including clear blue skies and calm open seas, we encountered a pod of 4 whales that included an 8 month old calf. The calf was full of curiosity and stayed close to the boat checking us out and of course the 3 adults were never far.

In this video, the opening frames shows the calf for a few seconds and then off in the background, all three adults surfaced. What magnificent creatures they are, full of beauty and grace.

When you click on the video for viewing, it will open in my Flickr page and you can then look at the few other videos I took and the many, many stills. I took well over 600 photos and it was hard to decide which ones would make the cut for the album, but after three days - I decided to delete no more!

I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I enjoyed the challenge of capturing them. Let me know what you think...

Boating

2010-06-29T21:08:00.001-04:00

Boating
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Went boating today on Town Cove with Betty on her pontoon boat. It was a great way to escape the warm humid air in town and the conditions were perfect for us to manage the boat ourselves. While cruising through the Nauset Marsh area we spotted what turned out to be an Osprey with his/her dinner, a nice sized fish that he carried away as we approached the area where he was dining. if you click on the picture you'll see some addition shots. it was really cool...

Busy Bee

2010-06-26T14:47:00.001-04:00

Busy Bee
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

This time of year I am frequently walking around Chatham Gardens with my camera and sometimes I just aim and hold down the shutter button for 3 or 4 or even more sequential pictures. The result is often a bunch of pictures that are identical but sometimes a gem shows up that would not have happened any other way - at least not for me. With a fast shutter speed I captured this bee hovering near a favorite flower - the Catmint.

The Catmint also attracts Goldfinches but they are not as accommodating when I get this close with my camera. But I'll keep trying.

Bluebird

2010-06-06T15:38:00.001-04:00

Bluebird
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Spring is in full swing here at Chatham Gardens. The lilacs were spectacular and the peonies just exploded this year. Roses are now blooming and most will continue through the entire summer into fall. Hydrangea buds look promising and should put on a great show this summer as well.

Birding has been consistent with no new sightings here at the Gardens but I had a Bluebird who looked very interested in one of the empty houses. He hung around for quite a while and I was able to get some good pictures as he investigated the potential nest including going in and out several times. But I guess we failed inspection because he has left and has not returned. Oh well, I will take a bluebird visit anytime.

Field at Sunrise

2009-09-30T19:23:00.001-04:00

Field at Sunrise
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I found a new spot today to enjoy the sunrise. It is located very close to my gym, so I'll be spending some pre-workout time trying to capture some new views of the sunrise.

As an added bonus, there is a beautiful oceanfront field that benefits greatly from the changing light - does it remind anyone else of "Christina's World" by Andrew Wyeth?

Moonset at Sunset at Harding's Beach

2009-09-22T12:42:00.001-04:00

Moonset at Sunset at Harding's Beach
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Last night there was a double treat at dusk. A very lovely sunset which I watched at Hardings Beach, here in Chatham and then about 15 minutes after the sun had actually set, the waxing crescent moon became visible, also in the western sky. The moon set was about an hour after the sunset which allowed about 30 minutes of twilight dusk to be able to take hand held pictures. What a magnificent sky.

Sunrise at Lighthouse Beach

2009-09-21T08:56:00.003-04:00

Sunrise at Lighthouse Beach
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I hoped to get down to the Lighthouse earlier then I did to get a picture of the Lighthouse with the light of the beam visible against the earlier sky. But I also realized that the air was much too clear and the reflection I was seeking was just that, the light reflecting off of air particles, probably early morning ice crystals. I had captured this about a month ago, totally unexpected, and was hoping to get a similar picture from a better angle. Fortunately, there will be many more mornings watching the sunrise at the Lighthouse.

Here is the picture that I had taken in August.

Chatham Light just before sunrise

2009-08-28T08:59:00.001-04:00

Chatham Light just before sunrise
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

The lighthouse was a very pretty sight today at dawn.

July Sunrise

2009-07-06T11:05:00.001-04:00

July Sunrise
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

It has been a long time since I have enjoyed the sunrise, mostly because the weather has not cooperated but also because the sunrise is so outrageously early this time of year. Today it was at 5:12a and the best pictures are often the ones taken at least 30 minutes before the sun actually reaches the horizon.

Well, today was the perfect combination of excellent weather and a dose of insomnia. When I woke up at 3:00a I watched the moon setting outside of Chatham Gardens - it was too near the actual set time to get the camera set up, so I made myself a travel mug of espresso and headed down to Lighthouse Beach.

I was not disappointed. If you click on the picture I included in this posting you will reach my Flickr site with a few more pictures of another beautiful sunrise in Chatham

June 09 Peony

2009-06-12T16:55:00.001-04:00

June 09 Peony
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Growing advice for peonies tell you not to cut more then a third of your flowers in any one year, mainly because of the leaves that are lost to the plant with the cut flowers. These leaves are essential to the peony if it is to make its food reserves.

Fortunately this year my peonies are blooming in abundance and taking a flower or two from several different plants do not pose a threat to the ongoing health of the plant.

The gentle sweet scent of these magnificent blooms are gracing the inside of Chatham Gardens and will be a beautiful bouquet for the next couple of weeks.

2009-06-07T18:22:00.000-04:00

Today was a beautiful, bright, sunny day here on Cape Cod and I was thrilled to find that the Peony show had indeed begun. Several of these magnificent beauties greeted me this morning as I enjoyed my coffee on the front porch. There are so many more buds to come, both in the front of the house and in the back that I am sure this show will have a wonderfully long run. I still marvel at the serendipity that brought me to live in this amazing place, my Chatham Gardens.

June 09 Chatham Gardens

2009-06-04T21:50:00.001-04:00

June 09 Chatham Gardens
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Chatham Gardens continues to flourish this spring with all the beauty that nature (and a very adept landscaper) can provide. If you click on the picture it will take you to the Flickr site with lots of pictures of what is/has been blooming and growing at Chatham Gardens over the last two months. But pictures only tell part of the story, for the rest of the saga you must visit in person.

Chatham Gardens is Blooming

2009-05-21T16:50:00.002-04:00

Many of my lilacs are now in their 4th year or fifth year of bloom at Chatham Gardens and each year I look forward with great anticipation to their magnificent, though much too brief show. When I open the window near my desk, the scent of lilacs fills my room and I find myself just breathing deeply to to take in the sweetness of these lovely flowers. Maybe you can smell them, too?

Trio of Beauties

2009-03-20T15:39:00.001-04:00

Trio of Beauties
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Life is not always easy or peaceful in a bird's world. They are constantly on the lookout for their natural enemies and there are many predators in residence at Chatham Gardens. But sometimes you catch a feeder with such a depth of beauty that it makes you pause and wonder why it cannot always be this simple; a cardinal, a housefinch and a goldfinch enjoying a snack at the same time on a well stocked feeder.

As an aside it was also so sweet to see the changes in color of the goldfinch, from the drab winter feathers to the start of the yellow to gold beauty they will be in just a short while.

Picture taken with my first Nikon camera, the Coolpix P90.

Bluebird Visitor

2009-03-14T19:46:00.001-04:00

Bluebird
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I had given up hope of seeing any Bluebirds visiting Chatham Gardens this year. In 2008 they arrived in February and were gone by the first week in March.

But today, as I sat in my sunroom, looking out of an unfortunately dirty glass door, there he was, perched on one of the feeder posts next to a sweet little House Finch. Spring must be very near, don't you think?

2009-03-05T19:09:00.002-05:00

It is a great time of year when the feeders are frequented constantly by many different types of birds, after a winter of relative inactivity. Surely spring must be very near. Last year at this time I had several bluebirds visiting Chatham Gardens and was hoping to see them return again this year, but I have not spotted a single one though I have read reports of bluebirds appearing the Harwich, a nearby town. Instead, I have a new sighting of a single bird that I have seen on three separate occasions. A yellow-rumped warbler has chosen the feeders of Chatham Gardens for his seed. I am surprised to see just a single bird and hope that there are companions nearby and that they will stay around for a while.

Coopers Hawk

2009-02-18T17:26:00.002-05:00

Coopers Hawk
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

This guy spent a lot of time on Sunday circling Chatham Gardens looking for a snack. Not sure if he/she ever succeeded or not since every time he was in my sights, not another bird was to be seen. Isn't nature wondrous.

Feb Snow

2009-02-17T12:33:00.002-05:00

Feb Snow
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I have been home from NC for a little over a week after being away for about 2 months. I often found myself thinking of Chatham Gardens and I found myself more homesick than I had anticipated. I kept track of the weather events both in the news and through the bills I received from the people who plow my driveway when enough snow accumulates and I mostly regretted not being home to see the fallen snow blanket my home, but I also missed what usually turns out to be a great photo opportunity.

I woke up this morning to a wonderful surprise, just enough snow to turn Chatham Gardens into a winter wonderland, but not enough to keep me from getting to the gym. Also, not enough to receive another snow plow bill as it is now mostly gone. But here is a picture of the beauty I woke up to and the photo I will have to remember that winter is a beautiful season, too.

Crescent Moon, Venus and Jupiter

2008-12-01T20:20:00.003-05:00

Crescent Moon, Venus and Jupiter
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

The show started just after sunset while there was still a lot of light still in the evening sky. The Crescent Moon floated on some wispy clouds and Venus was faint, but visible. If you click on this picture it will take you to my Flickr page with a few more pictures of tonight's sky show which ended with the photo below.

As an added treat you can see what is known as Earthshine which is caused by sunlight that reflects off the Earth onto the Moon's night side.

Venus at Twilight

2008-11-26T19:22:00.002-05:00

Venus at Twilight
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I love following the changes in the evening skies, tracking the phases of the moon, the times of the rising and setting moon and/or sun. I also get great notice of special events from the Nasa site http://science.nasa.gov/

Recently thee was an article that describes the conjunction of Venus and Jupiter over the next several evenings and ending on Dec. 1st with the two planets appearing extremely close together and being joined by the crescent moon.

http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2008/24nov_skyshow.htm

The top picture is of Venus which showed up first in tonight's twilight sky.

Not long afterwards you can also pick out Jupiter in the night sky (top of the picture). Each night they will appear to move closer to each other and I hope to be able to get some pictures when the crescent Moon joins the party.

Moonrise at Lighthouse Beach

2008-11-12T08:53:00.003-05:00

Moonrise at Lighthouse Beach
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I was down at the lighthouse yesterday afternoon to see the almost full moon rising about an hour before sunset. There were plenty of cloud lines tinged with a pretty pink color and a lovely moon rising over the water. Later that night, when returned from dinner at friends house, I was greeted by the ongoing howling of my local coyotes. It went on for longer then I can ever remember hearing before and it was very scary. I of course solved the problem by taking my hearing aids out - and vanquished those sounds to other ears. And to think the fullest moon isn't for two more days.

Crescent Moon and Venus Over Oyster Pond

2008-11-02T07:25:00.001-05:00

Crescent Moon and Venus Over Oyster Pond
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

On Halloween night, not long after sunset, a slim crescent moon was setting. The sun was still lighting the horizon with magnficent color and the deepening twilight brought the moon into view. As an added treat, Venus was visible as well, not far above the moon.

Sunset at Oyster Pond

2008-10-29T20:54:00.001-04:00

Sunset at Oyster Pond
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

The sun set about 10 minutes before this picture and was still lighting up the clouds and adding a glow to a tree on the far shore of Oyster Pond. Another magnificent sky saying goodnight to the sun.

Rainbow Over Pleasant Bay

2008-10-28T17:07:00.001-04:00

Rainbow Over Pleasant Bay
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I was driving home when I spotted this beauty and pulled onto the road that leads to the Eastward Ho Golf Course.

Do you think there is a pot of gold over there? Even if there is, it could not be worth more then my good fortune of living this beautiful place.

Morning Sun

2008-10-05T09:39:00.004-04:00

Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I had hoped to watch the sun rise this morning, but when I checked outside the sky was totally overcast so I did not rush down to the Lighthouse with the camera. But Sunday would not be the same if I did not take a mug of coffee and go down to the Lighthouse, so went a couple of hours after sunrise and was treated to an incredibly beautiful view. While all of Chatham seemed to be under a heavy cloud cover, there was a break in the clouds offshore that allowed the rays of the sun to shine through and for the sun itself to reflect on the water. How lucky I feel when I am treated to such magnificent view, knowing I live in a place where there is something beautiful to enjoy every single day.

To really enjoy this click on the picture and select a larger size to enjoy.

Cooper's Hawk

2008-10-01T07:50:00.001-04:00

IMG_6259
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

During migration seasons, it is not unusual to observe several different kinds of hawks in the area. One sure sign of a visiting hawk is the sudden flight of every small bird taking off simultaneously from the feeders, from the birdbath and from the ground. A few days ago, after watching the hurried, sudden departure all the birds at Chatham Gardens I was able to find the cause of the activity in a nearby tree. This Cooper's Hawk was hunting from a perch high above the ground.

Cardinal Family

2008-09-30T19:40:00.005-04:00

Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

This has been a great year for cardinals at Chatham Gardens. I have seen at least 3 sets of adults regularly and I have lost count of the number of juvenile birds that are frequenting my feeders.

In the above picture is a female, probably the mother of the two young birds hanging out on the top of my weeping cherry tree.

In this next picture it appears that the female is feeding one of the juveniles.

I had read that cardinals encourage their your our of the nest very quickly and teach them to find food on their own. There is a feeder not far from this tree and I think this was a lesson in progress.

The cherry tree seems to be a favorite resting place for many. In the below picture, if you look carefully, you can see 3 adult females.

Bird Sighting

2008-09-02T09:54:00.001-04:00

Yellowthroat Warbler
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Its called a Common Yellowthroat Warbler and supposedly the Common in the name is well deserved in this area, but it was a first for Chatham Gardens. Taken through the window of my sunroom, this sweet bird didn't stick around very long. I'll be watching the feeders for a welcome return visit.

A New Bird Sighting at Chatham Gardens

2008-08-22T13:37:00.002-04:00

Baltimore Oriole
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I was reading in my sunroom today when I glanced up at the bird feeder just outside the window and much to my total delight I spotted this beautiful bird. I believe it is a Female Baltimore Oriole, though it could be a young male in his first fall suit. She/he didn't stay long so I was glad I had the camera handy and ready.

I have an Oriole feeder but some critter, likely a squirrel or a raccoon, keeps swiping the orange halves. Now that I know there are Orioles nearby, I will cut up another orange and hope for a return visit.

Shrinking Children

2008-08-12T15:10:00.003-04:00

Julia, Ben
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I realized that I have developed a love/hate relationship with summertime on Cape Cod. There is the overwhelming swell of summer visitors that result in long lines and no reservations at favorite restaurants. There is the impossibility of making a left turn in the car and the never-ending quest to find alternative routes to avoid the worst of the left turns. There is the "Full" sign at the parking lot to my favorite beach.

But, there are also the sweet summer breezes and the warming waters at magnificent beaches with lots of parking. And most of all there are summer visitors that are arriving at Chatham Gardens for a day, a few days or a week. On balance, I would have to say I love summertime more then I hate it.

The most recent guests at Chatham Gardens included the Rechtzigel family who have not been here for two years. I really hope it is not another two years until they return. Overlapping with them were Ben and Sue Cheslawski, frequent and always welcome guests.

If you click on the picture of Julia and Ben you will be on my Flickr page where there is a short video of Ben C making Julia and Ben R (who are behind the blanket - I was slow turning on the camera) and then fortunately, bringing them back, in addition to more pictures of the recent Chatham Garden guests.

Is YOUR name in the reservation book?

Survivor

2008-07-21T21:15:00.001-04:00

Black-capped Chickadee
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Usually when I see black-capped chickadees they are impeccably well groomed, not a feather out of place. I saw this little fellow at the feeder today and I could not help buy wonder what circumstances so thoroughly ruffled his feathers. Other then the his shoddy appearance, he ate well and looked strong when he flew away. Click on the picture for a few more photos.

Coyote vs. Goldfinch

2008-07-11T22:17:00.002-04:00

Coyote
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

One of the downsides of my new all windowed addition is that I have had several bird strikes. Even with my limited hearing, when a bird flies into one of the windows the sound is unmistakable and I can almost always differentiate between a bird with a bad headache vs. a fatality. I have witnessed a few fatalities and I recall one situation where, when I went back to look for the bird all that was left were feathers. Enough feathers that I was certain the bird did not recover and fly away.

Today, I heard that unmistakable sound of a bird fatality and when I went to investigate, I found that I was not the first on the scene. A lone coyote had lost no time in retrieving what appears to be a bright yellow goldfinch and having a late afternoon snack.

This picture, and the others that are available on my Flickr site by just clicking on this picture were all taken through my windows, some before I thought to take the screen out, too. So while picture quality is not great, you can still see a very healthy coyote enjoying his prize.

Dahlia

2008-07-07T11:51:00.002-04:00

Dahlia
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Another first for Chatham Gardens, the first Dahlia. They are planted in containers that were built for my new deck and I suspect I have too many tubers in each container. But, there are lots of buds so a lot more flowers to be enjoyed in the next few weeks. This first one, though, will definitely have a special place in my memory.

Blueberries

2008-07-04T22:24:00.001-04:00

Blueberries
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I don't think that Chatham Gardens will ever be renamed Chatham Farms, but it was an exciting moment for me when I was on the upper patio and found that my newly planted high bush blueberry shrubs all had fruit ripening. I suspect that the birds will eliminate any need for me to carry a bucket up the hill to gather my bounty and I am glad to share the berries with my feathered friends - THIS YEAR. I see some netting in my future.....

U.S. Marine Corps Battle Color Ceremony

2008-06-26T10:07:00.001-04:00

U.S. Marine Corps Battle Color Ceremony
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Last night I attended the U.S. Marine Corps Battle Color Ceremony which took place in the H.S. ballpark in Orleans, MA. Me and 3 friends carried our beach chairs to an area on the edge of the ball park since the prime seating, a terraced hill behind the ballpark had filled up long before the concert started.

This short video shows one of the highlights of the Silent Drill Platoon, where they perform incredible spins and exchanges of their M-1 rifles (with very sharp looking fixed bayonets) with absolutely no verbal commands.

If you click on the video, it will take you to my Flickr site where you can see more pictures of the Silent Drill Platoon, the Drum and Bugle Corp, the Marine Corps Color Guard and a picture of the big gun that they fired several times and had every dog that was attended this fun, free event with their owner cowering with their tail tucked between their legs. The guns were LOUD, even to me!

June - The First Peony

2008-06-07T13:56:00.001-04:00

June - The First Peony
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Everything is coming to life at Chatham Gardens. For better or worse that also includes a predator, I believe a squirrel, that totally decimated a favorite peony shrub in the back of the house on the hill. Scattered all around the area were the deep purplish petals that were supposed to blossom into the magnificent blooms of the double flower peony, Paeonia Renato.

For some reason, fortunately, the peonies in the front of the house have been untouched and today I found the first fully opened flower of the Paeonia Bowl of Cream - I believe. So many of my plants were moved as a result of the new addition in the back that I have lost track of some of the specifics of my gardens.

Regardless of the name, I am always in awe of the elements of nature that return this beauty to my life, year after year. Many other plants are developing throughout the garden and you can see them all by clicking on the picture of the peony which links to my Flickr Set, Chatham Gardens 2008. Check out my Giant Hostas!

Moonset

2008-05-20T06:59:00.001-04:00

Moonset
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I was awake early today so I decided to take in a sunrise at Lighthouse Beach. As I pulled out of my driveway I saw the full moon sitting low in the sky so I swung by Oyster Pond to see if I could watch the moonset.

I was treated to the site of an enormous moon in shades of pink and gold getting ready to fade below the trees on the far side of the pond. I was able to take a picture thanks to the light from the nautical dawn that was well underway.

After the moon had dipped below the horizon I continued over to Lighthouse Beach and watched the sunset and it was lovely, but on this morning, the moonset won my heart.

New Cherry Tree

2008-05-16T15:13:00.001-04:00

New Cherry Tree
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Spring continues its magnificent return to Chatham Gardens. Here is a picture of a new addition this year, a Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree. It was purchased as a replacement for the existing Kwanzan Cherry Tree which we thought was destined for the wood pile because of some sort of root rot. After we dug it up (I use the term we since I am responsible for writing the checks that pay the people who are actually doing the work) WE, discovered that the original plastic basket had been left in place when the tree was first planted in 2004.

So we found a new spot for it and much to my surprise - and joy - the tree blossomed this year, which it did not do last year. If you click on the picture above you will see the Kwanzan Cherry Tree in bloom along with some of the other gardens this May.

June will surely bring more changes and beauty.

Feeding Time

2008-05-06T13:38:00.001-04:00

Feeding Time
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

This year I have a family of White-breasted Nuthatches nesting in one of my birdhouses. The house they chose was built to resemble a church and as far as I know this is the first time it has been occupied.

I have been observing the feeding habits of the family and it is clear that one bird is always in the house while the other bird will feed and bring back food, one seed at a time, to the other. I am hoping I will see the young before too long.

Chatham Gardens

2008-04-26T20:02:00.007-04:00

Sept 04 Chatham Gardens
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

It recently dawned on me that this summer will be the 5th summer of Chatham Gardens, a fact that boggles my mind. I thought it would be fun to look at the year to year changes in my landscaping and I put together a short album that includes one photo for each year for two different garden areas of my home.

The first is now named The Flag Garden and you can see why in the subsequent pictures. The second area is named The Lamppost Garden, though it could easily be named the Maple Tree Garden.

Just click on the picture and you will be directed to my Flickr page for the entire set. Later this summer I will include 08 pictures to the set and repost the link.

Sunrise at Lighthouse Beach

2008-04-11T14:26:00.004-04:00

IMG_7877
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Two days ago I posted a picture I took of the sun rising over the Atlantic Ocean at Lighthouse Beach. I took several pictures that day, from the first light in the sky until the Sun had cleared the horizon. I posted a series of the days pictures on Flickr which you can access by clicking on the picture which is linked to my Flickr site.

Yesterday I received an email from Chris Seufert, who is the administrator for a Flickr group called Chatham, Cape Cod Life asking me to include the above photo in this group.

I have admired Chris's photographs ever since I moved to Cape Cod as his photos are featured extensively in many Cape Cod and other New England magazines and I was thrilled to be asked to include one of my photos in a group associated with Chris. If I am lucky, I will be asked again.

Sunrise at Lighthouse Beach

2008-04-09T10:29:00.001-04:00

IMG_7858
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

The same sun I photographed setting last night, returned in a pretty sunrise this morning. With a hot cup of coffee, a warm car and the battery in my camera recharged, I was witness to the day beginning, a favorite activity in every season.

Sunset At Hardings Beach

2008-04-08T22:46:00.001-04:00

Sunset
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Tonight was another spectacular Sunset over Nantucket Sound. I actually went out to capture pictures of the crescent moon that was going to be bathed in Earthshine and it was to be my first serious tripod experience.

Fortunately, the sunset made the effort totally worthwhile, because I was not successful in taking any decent photos of the moon. I will analyze what went wrong another day, but the first thing I realized was that even with the tripod, the simple act of depressing the shutter button caused enough camera shake to ruin every picture. So the first thing I did after looking at my photos was to order a remote control for my camera.

But, tomorrow is another day and there will be another moon and certainly another sunset to enjoy.

Return of summer colors

2008-03-28T06:19:00.006-04:00

Return of summer colors
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

In addition to the annual migrations, there is a sign of spring that involves the birds that have wintered here at Chatham Gardens and elsewhere in the northeast and it is not unlike our own desire to change what we wear from heavy wools to lighter cottons. With our feathered friends, it involves changing their winter colors to their summer colors; a sure sign that mating is not that far away.

Here are three male American Goldfinches that are well on their way to the bright, vibrant yellow for which they are so well known. The feathers of the fellow looking at the camera are in various stages of change; you can see the drabber olive green on his back and and shoulders, while his two friends have already mostly converted to the bright yellow of summer.

Cardinals at the Feeder

2008-03-26T22:03:00.002-04:00

Cardinals
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

One of my favorite subjects to photograph are birds in flight. Being able to capture the spread of their splendid feathers and the energy of the wings while in flight is thrilling. To freeze a single moment in their life speaks volumes to me.

This picture is one of my favorites. It captures the final approach of a brilliantly colored male Cardinal to the feeder where a female Cardinal, possibly his mate is already feeding.

Earle, Linda, Dave, Tammy, Brian

2008-03-21T21:57:00.002-04:00

Earle, Linda, Dave, Tammy, Brian
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

Tonight we had a great dinner at the Ocean House in Dennis Port. Great restaurant located on Nantucket Sound, a definite new favorite of mine. It was Tammy's birthday dinner and we were fortunate that Brian was home from school so he could join us, Good food, good wine and good friends - nothing better.

New sighting

2008-03-20T21:01:00.002-04:00

IMG_5553
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

The past week has been cold and overcast, not conducive to wandering around Cape Cod or even Chatham with my camera. But earlier this week I spotted this little fellow. At first I though it was an American Goldfinch, but upon closer inspection I realized that the color was wrong and even the body shape was very different, much rounder and/or full then a Goldfinch. I believe it may be a warbler, but I am still unsure so if anyone reads this and can ID my little friend, please let me know.

What has been interesting is that I have only spotted this solitary loner; very unusual during the spring migration time when it is more common to see different visitors in large numbers.

The sun is scheduled to make an appearance tomorrow and I plan on being ready, in spite of my latest calamity - apparently I broke several toes in my left foot. I though I had one broken, but as usual, I overindulged.

Sunset at Hardings Beach

2008-03-10T21:07:00.004-04:00

Sunset at Hardings Beach
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

I live in one of the most beautiful places I have ever known. I have seen hundreds of sunsets at dozens of different locations and never have I been disappointed. Each one is different. Each one is wondrous. And each one leaves me almost speechless at the beauty that our universe offers up to us again and again.

Good night Sun - I will welcome you back in the morning.

A Robin and a Cardinal

2008-03-01T23:10:00.003-05:00

A Robin and a Cardinal
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

The weather has not improved, but still there is cause for optimism. Just the other day I looked out my window to my feeder in the front yard and saw at least 6 beautiful Robins searching the ground for stray seeds. I was not able to get a good picture out of my rain covered window, but later that day I was able to catch a Robin and a brightly colored male Cardinal in the back yard. It seems that spring must be nearing Cape Cod and none too soon.

Taking flight

2008-02-27T05:24:00.002-05:00

Taking flight
Originally uploaded by ChathamGardens

On a cold, rainy day I found myself looking at some recent pictures I took on a day when the sun was shining. Here is one of my favorites.

Spring is on its way.

2008-02-25T04:20:00.002-05:00

Its the time of year of the northbound bird migration is beginning and when you see the evidence you can't help but know that Spring is once again going to return. My first sighting was a group of Bluebirds that were the first to ever visit Chatham Gardens. They appeared during the snowfall last Friday and then reappeared on Sunday, a bright sunny day, though still very cool.

The migration happens annually and yet it always feels new; its a change of seasons that brings much promise. A promise of new life bursting from the landscape and new life being born in the nests of trees. Seems like a good time start a new project so I decided to join the blogger community.

My retirement has been wonderful and my transition to having zero commitments and an extremely vague day to day schedule was much easier to achieve then I had anticipated. After a very satisfying 40 year career in publishing I found that doing little to nothing was very welcome and really easy and actually fun. I spent the past year enjoying my home, my gardens and the many visitors to my multitude of bird feeders.

I am ready to bring something new to my life and I decided that blogging would be a good way to begin this new transition. I look at it as a commitment that requires a level of personal discipline that I have been without for the past year. I will continue to watch the almost daily changes in my gardens. I will still check the bird feeders and surrounding trees for new winged visitors and I will check the almanacs for the times of the sunsets and sunrises. For all of these events I hope to have my camera at the ready to record what I see and share some of them here on these pages.