Flowers, birds . . . and a water slide

These pots of flowers sit on the steps outside the conservatory and provide a lovely splash of colour in the garden.  They're a mixed bunch - quite literally - being the odds and ends I found in the shed earlier this year; marigolds, cornflowers and mesembryanthemums.  The seeds took a long time to germinate, and some didn't germinate at all, and I think it was most likely because on closer examination of the seed packets I noticed that they were all a couple of years out of date.  Oh dear.  However, despite not being 'fresh' seeds, they are blooming away quite happily.  

We're noticing quite a few young birds (recently fledged and still learning) in the garden over the last few weeks, often accompanied by mum or dad to show them the ropes.  Blackbirds, goldfinches, robins and especially green woodpeckers, who frequently wake us up very early in the morning with their distinctive call.  

Yesterday, on our way into town, we spotted an entire family of no fewer than five woodpeckers feeding on the grassy bank.  We were so thrilled to see so many all together we just stood and watched.  All five little heads were nodding up and down as they pecked away, it was great.  My little camera managed the nearest bird but the others were just out of shot.

We finally got the promised rain, but it arrived as a very fine drizzle which hasn't filled the water butts at all and has barely dampened the ground.  It's been a little frustrating for us gardeners who would have preferred a good downpour for a couple of hours but we have to take what comes, weather-wise.  

Now here's something you don't see every day - a giant inflatable water slide running the length of one of the main shopping streets in town.  It was a charity event, people donating for the chance of sliding down the slide (in the rain!)  There didn't seem to be a shortage of sliders, some in fancy dress, and it was certainly different.  Just such a shame the weather was so inclement.  (much better photos on the link)

(First post on the Mac; bit of a learning curve but so much quicker)