January 10, 2018. Outlet Mall, Biking and Iggy, the Iguana.

January 10, 2018.  Outlet Mall, Biking and Iggy, the Iguana.  We went to an outlet mall yesterday so Annie could purchase a few clothing items.  The mall itself wasn't very photogenic.  However, there were a few things I thought you might like to see.  There was a strange looking grove of trees with gnarly, twisted roots.  Do you know what kind of tree it is?  I think it a banyan tree, but I'm not sure.  I encountered a tiny lizard.  Inspired by my granddaughter holding an iguana, I tried to pick it up.  The lizard was having no part of that.  He scampered off the instant the camera clicked.  Shoot!  I wanted to show Lauren I am as brave as she is.

I think I have pretty much exhausted the neighborhood photos.  I did find a second "boy-fishing-in-the-ditch" yard ornament.  We happened upon several ducks.  At least, I think they were ducks.  As a longtime member of the Vernon County chapter of Ducks Unlimited, I know my ducks pretty well.  I have never seen ducks like these.  One appeared to be injured.  The others hovered close, I suppose to comfort him.  That's a nice thought, anyway.

The 4-5 foot iguana came back today strolling in the opposite direction.  I was on my way to pick him up when I recalled the lizard at the mall.  I didn't want to frighten the iguana, too.  So, I decided to let him pass the house unimpeded.  See, that's one of the reasons I am adored by the animal kingdom.  I am considerate in allowing them to coexist with us without disturbing their movements in their natural environment.  Besides, those things bite.

Annie sent a photo of the iguana to Elijah, our oldest grandson.  She asked him to suggest a name for the iguana, since he evidently intends to be a regular passerby.  Elijah suggested "Iggy."  That works for me.  I'll bet it works for Iggy, too.  It will have to.  I refuse to disappoint my grandson.

Goodnight.