The Joy of Outdoor Shows

Last week Tulsa Mayfest lived up to its reputation as a wet show. It wasn't as bad as it could have been. Giant hailstones hit OKC one day, only about 50 miles away. Tornadoes tore up parts of Oklahoma while we were there. Still, when it wasn't raining, Tulsa came out in droves to support its arts festival. This is one of the better-coordinated events I attend, and there are no words adequate to thank the devoted volunteers who make life easier for the artists.

Terrie's out of school for the summer. She's still carrying a 4.0 gpa. Not too shabby for a grandma.

I just have to brag about my orioles. I counted 5 male Baltimores at the same time either at the feeders or waiting for the feeders. They are so beautiful and make such a pretty song. They're already going through the grape jelly, though. I'm going to have to find it in bigger jars.

Hummingbird fact for today: Most hummingbirds molt in winter in the tropics, out of sight of northern observers.

Baltimore Orioles!!!!!

Orioles migrate to South America for the winter and I've been waiting with breathless anticipation for their return. I hear that if there is no food for them, they will not stay. I put out my first orange half and grape jelly over a week ago and have had orchard orioles happily munching away. Today I saw a male Baltimore oriole in the jelly!

Female hummers are also back, about 2 weeks after I spotted my first male Ruby-throated. I saw a female at the feeders yesterday.

Thank you Springfield! Artsfest on Walnut Street is always a fantastic show, rain or shine. Once again, we were thrilled to meet and talk to so many wonderful arts lovers. Home this weekend, and then off to Tulsa for Mayfest. We were there two years ago, and the residents in the Tulsa area support the arts, too! We're looking forward to our return visit.

I want to thank our cat/house/mail sitter, Laura Koeberl. Without Laura, we wouldn't be able to attend the art shows that we do. Laura is a neighbor and also a real estate broker at the Lake of the Ozarks. If you've ever considered buying or selling property at the Lake, please contact Laura at Associated Brokers. Her email is lkhomes@earthlink.net. Her phone is 573-374-2771.

Hummingbird fact for today: Hummingbird preferences are relatively unimportant in selecting a feeder, as the birds are adaptable and will learn to drink from virtually any container.