I always enjoy sitting by my pond for a relaxing moment or two whenever I get a chance. But the fascination intensified July 10th when Toryn gave me an olive colored baby goldfish that she couldn't keep anymore. I went out with a flashlight later that evening to check on "Happy" and was stunned to see a couple of small fry hiding in the Parrot's Feather! My goldfish had successfully spawned!
Over the next few days (sitting and staring into the mid-summer murky water) I realized there were LOTS of babies who survived being eaten by their moms and dads! So exciting! (Although I was already wondering what I was going to do with all these fish My pond is only big enough for 10 max).
A few more weeks went by and I delighted in every color change (and some who didn't). Happy turned a bright orange (she's the one sandwiched between two dark babies on the right). There is a small white and yellow fish, a white and orange baby, and a lovely red-orange with a black tail! I am trying not to name them. My sister, Debbie, taught me that. But I'm not having much luck.
Look closely. Dreamer (yes, I named her) is looking up through the bubble at the giant with a camera (me). Yikes!
Fish were not the only critters at the pond this summer. A few toads dropped by to call for sweethearts on balmy nights.
Foxy decided that fish-flavored water was better than his own.
And sweet Bo also lapped up a few gulps as the big fish circled around his tongue. What are they thinking!?!
And yes, a snake. A few days after I realized I was missing a couple of babies (the orange fish with the black flowing tail, for one), I discovered this fella in the water! Well, maybe I wouldn't have to worry about giving so many away after all! I decided to take a wait and see approach.
So here I was 2 months after I spotted those first little fry. I'd already given away 5 fish...had quite a few nabbed by the big guys and the snake...but still had a pond full of pleasure to greet me each day!
