Stan & Joyce Orchard
Trying to figure it out since 1975.
Petunia Love
We just love petunias. We have some in hanging baskets, some in pots on the deck. And judging by all the bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, and these guys, we're not alone in our appreciation of this humble plant. We grow more ever year. Next season will be no exception.
Hoophouse Update
Still lots to do: cut away excess plastic, hang door, add trim around vents and door, add raised beds, spread gravel, etc. But it’s to the point we can actually use it. Amazed.
A New Era Begins
After more years and money than I care to think about, King County finally issued a building permit to our son and his family. Construction begins this weekend. A new era begins on The Orchard Compound.
Lunch In Tacoma
Had a lovely lunch with my siblings at Harbor Lights in Tacoma today. Walked down to the Dickman Mill park. Drove through the old neighborhood. Many changes…there and in us. A good day.
Club Antler
Elk strolling by our front porch is common here on The Orchard Compound. But this morning when a group of five bulls walked by, this guy’s freaky antlers caught my eye. Not a great shot – through a dirty window in the dark. But you can see it grew out sideways. Can he use it as a club?
Bzzzzzz
Never tire of watching these little critters do their thing.
Pollinator
This little thing has been a busy bee and then some.
Sun Lovers
While we humans are freaking out over this unprecedented heatwave here in the U.S. Pacific Northwest, our cold-tolerant gardenias are loving it.
Garden Friend
One of many small creatures who share our deck garden. Staying cool under the shade sail as the 2021 heat wave intensifies.
More Fuzzy Antlers
Never tire of watching these critters.