an abundance of berries

[15_the_circle]

[OT from cottage renovations]

just as the migratory birds are fixing to set off for the winter, everything seems to be bursting out in berries.  for the traveler, topping off the fuel tanks for a long trip a good idea; from the plant's perspective it enlarges the potential area to which seeds might be transported. 

most of the dogwoods are looking pretty sad as this year's extended dry spells were hard on them.  a few seem to be trying to make up for the shortfalls of the others.  these images, however, are of holly and honeysuckle. 
I guess we could say today's post is brought to you by the letter H. 

(click through these thumbnails for higher resolution images)

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6^th Avenue

Holly (Ilex)

M^cCauley Street

Honeysuckle (Lonicera)

these neatly aligned square clusters of berries have such a very orderly look to them. 

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Honeysuckle (Lonicera)

the translucent skin and liquid interior give these berries a glow which highlights the seeds within and backlights a passing ant (you might need to click through to see all the image detail).

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[edit:

I had forgotten to upload this last image before letting the post loose.  abundance is what today's series is all about; I was reminded of this in a providential email from the Grove's new pastor (I'm not in the congregation but have agreed to contribute some images to an ecumenical Thanksgiving Day observance).]

Honeysuckle (Lonicera)

any retailer can tell you that one effective way to attract the attention of passing consumers is by laying out one's wares in massive and brightly colourful profusion.