And You Thought Things Only Grew Big in Texas

Between my house and most everywhere else I go there is a lovely old home on a corner lot. The house gives me pleasure because of its' simplicity and because it has been kept up well (more than can be said for our property currently I'm sorry to say). But in the spring and early summer I am in awe of a rhododendron that grows next to the house. In fact, one could be concerned that the bush will eventually overtake the house:

Did you notice that the rhodie is taller than the roof of the porch? Both of those pinkish-purplish humps behind the utility pole and in front of the conifer are rhododendron. Here's another view:

Is that amazing or what?! It makes me wonder how long it has been growing in that spot. Here's a cropped shot from the corner again:

And another from straight on:

If I were six years old how I would love to try to get under that bush and make a secret playhouse for myself. I would love to walk around it now, if that's even possible, just to get a better look and to marvel at it. I'm not generally a big fan of rhodie's, state flower of WA or not, but this one commands respect!

On another note, I am thrilled to report that I have heard not one peep from the lab next door this morning. I don't know if someone is home with him/her today or what, I'm just inexpressibly grateful for the silence.