Fresh this morning - three fine sunflowers (
Helianthus annuus 'Golden Hedge') from the back garden, saved from the forces of Squirrelery.

I was not going to let these beauties meet the same end that befell the first two unfortunate blooms.

Normally Jane-squirrel relations are amicable - loving, even. I don't even have a problem with sharing what I grow with the local fauna - just ask the juvenile robins who have been enjoying the complimentary grape-buffet out back.

But messing with my golden lovelies
before they go to seed? Leaving the be-nibbled flowerheads under the maple for me to find them? THINK TWICE, YOU BUSHY-TAILED RATS.