Memorial Day

It's Memorial Day and this is a photo of the Normandy American Cemetery in memory of over 9,300 U.S. servicemen who died in WW2 D-Day invasion and subsequent missions.   

Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, was conceived after the Civil War as a way to honor the Union's war dead, with Southern states setting aside separate days to honor fallen Confederate soldiers. By the early 20th century, the holiday had evolved to honor all military members who died in service.

Rhododendron

One of my rhododendrons has gone crazy with blooms this year. Last year it had three blooms; this year over thirty. Chicago soils tend to be alkaline and rhododendrons prefer acidity. I'm wondering if it has something to do with the mild winter we had. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhododendron

Photo: Marge Ishmael

Black crowned night heron

Saw this black-crowned night heron on our walk in Jackson Park this afternoon. http://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/black-crowned-night-heron

Photos: Marge Ishmael

Allegheny river walk

Walking alongside the Allegheny River in Pittsburgh:

Heavenly Gardens Trail, Norwich

Seagulls and blackberries/rules and regulations

Humorous article in today's Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/shortcuts/2017/may/01/dont-feed-seagulls-pick-blackberries-walk-not-get-arrested

Photo: Guardian