Take That, Mr. Squirrel

Some time ago—I can’t remember precisely, but I reckon about six weeks—I planted more zinnia seeds than were strictly necessary. They are so teeny, and I knew I should have handled them carefully. Well, two flung handfuls and a light raking later, I figured the rest was up to fate and Mother Nature’s whim.

I didn’t consider that fresh zinnia seeds might be enticing to squirrels. Apparently they are, to at least one furry little snacker that dug up most of the flower bed with zero remorse that I could see. Mr. Squirrel filled his belly.

It’s been very hot and dry, but I’ve kept the survivors watered. Something that I’m pretty sure is not a zinnia popped up between the little green sprouts, but I’m just gonna wait and see what happens there. Maybe the hungry squirrel left a tip.

But yesterday afternoon, this gorgeous little ball of sunshine was waiting for me, along with several more little buds that will hopefully be showing their faces soon.

I may or may not have yelled into the canopy of the oak trees, taunting Mr. Squirrel. My neighbor may or may not have heard me, but I choose to think they’re used to me by now.