20-degree Start

2020's last moon

20F with a wind chill of 15F when we started off this morning, but, fortunately, the wind abated once we reached the upper flatland just off Tellbrook.  The worst part of the early trek was the descent through the shadowed gap along LDR-A; upon reaching the sunny area south of the Tellbrook Arroyo conditions felt warmer.

We went as far as First Arroyo, where we ducked in for a water and photo break.  We stopped in a spot bathed by sunlight, and both Heelers seemed to appreciate the warmth.  We never saw Willow shiver due to the cold.

The cold weather has definitely invigorated both Willow and Frio, and managing them on the final leg of recent treks has been something of a chore.  They're now both eager to spot and chase jackrabbits, and their fervent desire to take off after the hares is the main reason we're keeping the dogs on the leads.  It took me nearly two years to completely alter our previous dog Becca's impulse to chase other critters.

Willow and four shadows

Creosote/hill/Organ Mountains

Thorny situation

Heading east in First Arroyo

View from the arroyo

This and the next 2:  huge Soaptree Yucca in First Arroyo

This and the next 3:  Willow and Frio

Mesquite, Soaptree Yucca and the Organ Mountains