A Simple, Free Joy

I started this awhile ago on my blog thinking I would share a simple, free joy at least once a week. Obviously that didn't happen. It's not that I didn't see or find any joy, it is because I didn't take the time to stop and ENjoy. Life is so crazy, busy and fast paced. It really doesn't have to be that way. Everyday, I have to make a conscience decision to slow down, turn it down, and just be.

So this morning, I spent time marveling at the flowers and birds in my garden. I love Sunflowers. The last two summers, I planted some seeds to get the large gorgeous blooms. This year, I had so many "volunteers" popping up, I didn't have to plant one seed!

See the bird?

The garden has been full of birds pecking at the sunflower seeds the last few days. I was especially happy to see some pretty yellow Goldfinches feasting on top of a stalk, they don't stop by for a visit very often.

My mom always planted Marigolds by her tomatoes so I do too! I don't know why, she might have said it helps keep bugs away, but I just love the orange color next to the red of the tomato. All these gorgeous blooms were "volunteers" this year. To tell you the truth, it is the best thing that grew in my garden this summer. The bunnies made it their "all you can eat salad buffet" this year.

 Today's visitors to the yard included: Robins, House Wren, House Finch, American Goldfinch, and the most exciting of all, a Downy Woodpecker. This was the first time I've seen a Woodpecker stop by one of our trees! Then of course, there was a visit from a bunny or two!

Do you have a garden? Do you forget to go out and enjoy what you worked so hard on in the Spring? I'm so happy I took the time today to stop and enjoy!
Hope your day is filled with joy!