Beautiful, Deadly Nature
  
Living so close to nature, we are constantly reminded that we have very little control. Every year we are surprised by what ends up growing in our river-side yard, and every year it's different.
These beautiful flowers have popped up this year and have attracted a lot of large Western Tiger Swallowtail butterflies. The hummingbirds also seem to love them.
Although the butterflies and birds enjoy them, these lovely flowers are actually the very poisonous Foxglove of the genus Digitalis. While the digoxin extracted from this genus is used to create heart medication, Foxglove can be deadly to mammals if ingested.
Fortunately, the dogs don't seem interested in the plant at all and the pollinators love it. So, for now, the gorgeous, deadly flower stays.
It's Baby Time!
Last month we introduced you to our resident Canadian geese friends. This month they disappeared for a few days and reappeared with a gaggle of goslings!
These babies are certainly not brand new, so these very good goose parents clearly had them hidden and protected for a while. Sadly, the littlest babies tend to end up spread all over our lawn if the parents aren't careful. (See our newsletter article from a couple years ago entitled "Murder Most Fowl"). Nature is beautiful, but not always kind.
This sweet family come for a cool dip in the river almost daily. We are are excited to watch the babies grow up over the rest of the season. We will be especially excited if they continue to stay out of our actual yard. The amount of excrement a single goose can produce is truly mindboggling, never mind a whole family of 5!
CLAIM YOUR HOMEOWNER GRANT
It's Property Tax time.
The due date is always July 2nd of every year.
If you pay your tax on a monthly installment, then you should not have to worry about making payment. In this case, it should state at the top of the bill that your lender has already paid on your behalf etc.
Don't forget to claim your home owner grant though. For eligibility requirements and to apply for the home owner grant, call 1-888-355-2700 or visit gov.bc.ca/homeownergrant.
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