Monday - setting the tone for the weeks ahead

Ahhhhh Choooo

This Monday morning I started my day with a refreshing morning walk to set the tone for the week ahead. Afterward, I make sure to schedule all my appointments for the upcoming days. I find that being proactive and staying organized helps me avoid procrastination, and it's always such a relief to be able to check off tasks from my to-do list.

This flowering wildflower weed is part of the Fleabane family. It's pretty, but I'm wondering if this is why my husband has been sneezing. It's also known as the Pioneer plant or asthma weed! 

As I walked out of the subdivision, 

I took a photo of this mimosa or Persian silk tree. They are very messy! 

When I walk just a little beyond my neighborhood, I am greeted by a sign reminding me that this is Wintu County. 

The area has been historically inhabited by the Wintu Native Americans, and their presence continues to be strong. The Wintu community actively contributes to the local area through initiatives such as the Wintu Museum, the Rancheria, and a vibrant Pow Wow that draws participants from various states. Their partnership with local government is instrumental in maintaining our region's prosperity, as they significantly contribute to its development and well-being. 

They are an asset to our community!

In the summer months, the hills are adorned with a golden hue, showcasing the native California Oat grasses. 

Source: Pinterest 

One of the few reasons why California is known as the "Golden State." However, this picturesque landscape is under threat from non-native oat grasses that have the potential to outcompete and displace our native plant species.

I'm frustrated because the plant identifier on my phone only provided a generic label of "Oats" without distinguishing between the native and non-native varieties.

The area next to the pond is frequently occupied by homeless individuals, and this has raised concerns among the neighbors about the potential risk of fires. Thankfully, we have been fortunate enough to avoid any fire incidents so far.

The pond area which has evaporated from the hot summer. 

Up this way are many hobby ranches - 

As I was strolling back to my house, I couldn't help but notice the dried out  redwood trees that had suffered from the scorching heat during that record-breaking day in July.  The impact of the extreme temperatures had taken a toll on many of the redwoods in this area. The coastal redwoods have fared much better. Given the increasingly hot and dry climate in this region, it's clear that planting redwood trees here may no longer be suitable. The moister climate and marine influence are essential for redwoods, and why they are abundant on our coast -  it's evident that these conditions are not met in this area.

Many have a tendency to plant these trees and then neglect to provide them with adequate water they need.  Being from the coast originally, I made sure that we installed a drip system around our trees. Just too hot here. As a result, they are generally thriving, with only a few small areas showing signs of distress.

So, this morning, I scheduled two appointments and I am waiting for the dentist to call me back. 

• Eye appointment tomorrow and new eyeglasses! 
• Colonoscopy on the 13th. 

Other than that, I need to do a couple of loads of laundry and fold some clothes.

It's already 2 p.m.! The husband has taken the car to be washed and I have some reading.  

I do hope this finds you all in a good space - I am thinking of those in Florida.  

My heart turns to Israel as they prepare for the possibility of another attack from Iran. 

I pray Psalm 122;6.

 

Warm Regards,

Debby