Cheap Summer Thrill - Observing Backyard Wildlife

It's always fun for the kids when one of God's wild creatures wanders into the backyard.  This Eastern box turtle which slowly strolled across our backyard probably on its way to the wooded area, made a good subject for the kids to observe and journal about.  We're taking a suggestion from Ashleigh's teacher and having the kids keep a journal of their summer experiences to help maintain writing skills over the break.  

The kids weren't the only ones interested in Mr. Turtle.  So was the newest member of our family.  Can you see her peeking out from behind the tree?  That's our new kitten Oreo.  She was a "surprise" from Dave.  I can't say that initially I was enthusiastic about being surprised with a cat.  As opposed to a bigger diamond ring, which takes less care and maintenance LOL!  But Oreo is a furry ball of cuteness and quickly won over my heart, like instantly.  What can I say, deep down I'm just a cat lady!   

Moving in closer...

And closer...

Oreo seems puzzled why Mr. Turtle doesn't want to come out and play!

No turtles were harmed during this observation. 

Mr. Turtle slowly but surely made his way to the wooded area :)

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The turtle watches undisturbed as countless generations of faster "hares" run by to quick oblivion, and is thus a model of patience for mankind, and a symbol of our State’s unrelenting pursuit of great and lofty goals.

- NC Secretary of State

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Mary Ellen