There's something magical about traipsing thru the garden at dawn.
Ordinary perennials take on an ethereal look, refreshed from the cooling balm of night.
The enchantment perseveres into daybreak and the first rays of sun.
It doesn't take long tho (on a mid-July morning) for those early rays to gain strength, sending all but the hardiest souls scurrying for shade.
Near triple digits have that effect.
Choose to linger in the sun for just a bit longer tho and a reward is at hand.
It makes the early riser happy to have rolled out of bed.
and starts another summer day off on a high note....
Oh, You. Beautiful photos. Are you out there with a cup of tea, at least??? :-)
Posted by: Shady Gardener | July 19, 2011 at 06:16 PM
Wonderful Kathleen!
Posted by: Dana | July 19, 2011 at 08:26 PM
Oh my goodness! I think this is the most beautiful post I've seen in a while! I was just about to sign off, and I thought I'd stop by. This will give me sweet dreams. Thanks!
Posted by: PlantPostings | July 19, 2011 at 08:55 PM
Gorgeous early morning shots, I can see why you take these little jaunts through the garden for those beautiful pics! :)
Posted by: Racquel | July 20, 2011 at 05:00 AM
Gorgeous!!
I think it is great you are going to do your daughter's pictures.
Posted by: tina | July 20, 2011 at 07:25 AM
Early morning is a wonderful time to be in the garden, isn't it? I love the smell of the air, the sound of the birds and special quietness that disappears as the sun continues to gain strength. Great photos!
Posted by: Grace | July 20, 2011 at 05:55 PM
Hi Kathleen, Dawn and dusk are my favourite times for taking pictures. I just love the golden quality the light has.
Posted by: Jennifer | July 20, 2011 at 06:00 PM
Kathleen, Nice photos. The coneflowers here are just starting to bloom. Takes some time when living on Lake Michigan - always cooler - except this Summer. Way too hot for me! Just got in from taking photos for the day. Already very humid and hot. Thus, I am checking out Blogs like yours to see and find a few new ones. Jack
Posted by: Jack | July 21, 2011 at 08:27 AM
Beautiful lighting. I love the differences the sunrise or sunset light angles show. Lovely pictures.
Posted by: Janet, The Queen of Seaford | July 21, 2011 at 06:56 PM
There is just something special about Echinacea isn't there? Yours look wonderful. I love your pictures.
Posted by: sweetbay | July 22, 2011 at 04:26 PM
I saw my first garden butterfly yesterday, a red admiral, but I didn't get the shot. There will be plenty more now that the buddliea is blooming! They just can't resist. I would love some purple poppy seeds, do you need a pink one in return?
Posted by: RobinL | July 22, 2011 at 07:29 PM
Gorgeous pics Kathleen!
Posted by: Nancy Anderson | July 23, 2011 at 12:06 PM