“We’ll keep the lavender blooming,” guarantee the folks from Sequim, Wash.

Even if he wasn’t thinking specifically about tularemia, Hans Zinsser knew well the danger that surrounds us. He cynically observed that “however secure and well-regulated civilized life may become, bacteria, Protozoa, viruses, infected fleas, lice, ticks, mosquitoes and bedbugs will always lurk in the shadows ready to pounce when neglect, poverty, famine or war lets down the defenses.”

Their life can only be described as short and sweet.

It was truly a tree-mendous mystery.

With some luck, anglers might come across a school of weakfish running, or more likely swimming.

The woods are wearing pink lipstick. The luscious and luminous blossoms of the pink lady slipper orchid provide nature’s makeup. Blooming with its unforgettable flower, this special species is one to enjoy, but never uproot.