hi everyone. everything seemed to have survived the cold but is to be colder tonite so will be interesting to see what happens. I know the birds are awfully excited today so I'm hoping that means last cold spell. the male bb was trying to get the female to start building the nest. last nite it rained a lot hear and I went out for a bit and about had a heart attack. I saw something. I thought it was a cat which I much dislike. it was dark and pouring rain and I was getting cold...went in to get flash light and a big stick. found the critter again and it was raccoon. I started reading about them on internet says they will climb wood fences. also said if you have food or trash around this will draw them....I have none of that...but they are taken with chickens and the people a couple houses have chickens. if anyone has any suggestion on how to keep raccoon from climbing my fence. I found one lady said if you scare the crap out of them they won't come back. so I have keep my big stick handy. this is my oldest lilac bush blooming. I didn't notice until I loaded on computer but if you ZOOM u will c this neat lookin insect with clear veined wings. I wish I would have seen it when I was taking the photo and I would have aimed at it. they have interesting looking heads. I thought it still too early for interesting insects although I did see a dragonfly just a few days back as well. ok I'm rambling...hope you all are safe and happy. until next time... ***chills and thrills***