I took this shot of a beautiful monitor lizard at the Oklahoma City Zoo a few weeks ago with my phone camera (I didn't know it could take such nice pictures). This looks like a painting.

This big guy is not to be confused with the more docile bearded dragon that you can have in your home, like our spoiled rotten Draco after a bath(below). For breakfast he had mango, banana, cilantro, mustard greens, oregano, and crickets.

Draco and a bunny eye each other through the window

Growing Potatoes

My potatoes are growing very quickly. This year I planted potatoes in mounds and in bags. For more information about cultivating potatoes, see my page on Potato Gardens.

Scully the Rat

My daughter's rat, Scully, often likes to rummage around on my desk. She drags various objects to her hidey place, including things she can't use but wants anyway.

Rats are great pets for kids. They're smart, clean and don't bite unless they're very unhappy--like other pets. Basically, they're like little dogs that need attention. Downside is they don't live very long. Scully lost her buddy Pookie a few months ago and she's bit more needy now.

There are many websites devoted to the care of rats. Be sure to check them out if you are interested in this sweet pet.

Redfooted Tortoise

While I was in Pet World (Lawrence, KS) today, an infant Redfooted Tortoise was emerging from its shell. The red is on the scales of his leg. These animals are indigenous to Central and South America and starting to become popular pets.

Here is an informative site about them:
Redfoot Tortoise

A Run in Baldwin City, Kansas

Normally I don't run with a camera, but since I do this 5.2 course so often I thought it would be fun to document it. Take a look at what I go past: ponds, pastures, the Douglas County Lake, the Ivan L. Boyd Woodland, the Baker University Nature Trail, Signal Oak Hill (well, I go up this one), the Signal Oak Overlook, and historical markers. I also encounter numerous animals: deer, turkeys, raccoons, opossums, snails, vultures, snakes, turtles. I will add to this since some animals are not out much except at dusk and dawn.

Check it out: A Run in Baldwin City