Late December

I long ago decided that I preferred a sunny Christmas to one where I was surrounded by snow and ice. However, I also find that high humidity and temperatures of 34-35 degrees - 93-95F-  is not really comfortable - at least outside. So I have been making use of  my air conditioner and these photos are from around my yard rather than out on more extensive walks.
There has been enough rain that the palms and trees still look nice and green.

This is a Crepe Myrtle - one of the few trees flowering at present.

The other afternoon I noticed  a small brown bird  hopping around on my lawn. I kept still and it eventually came close enough for me to get clear photos. It  was an Australian Pipet. My book says that they are common across Australia.I have seen them at other times but their small size - 15-17cms - and habit of quickly flying off somewhere else means this is the first time I have got reasonable photos.

For more scenery  from around the world visit Our World Tuesday

and for more birds visit Wild Bird Wednesday

Weather Dependent!

Sometimes,even with the best intentions, it is not possible to photograph the birds. It has been raining for a couple of weeks. Much of the time it has been just light showers - but enough to make you wet if you stay out in it! Yesterday morning we had a heavy downpour and the photo shows my back yard. Then by afternoon the sun was out again and it felt like a sauna. Now the weather bureau says we can expect more of the same for the next week. Oh well! This too shall pass!!

For more scenery from around the world visit Out World Tuesday