Spring Winds

New pad under construction (Prickly Pear Cactus)

The winds at this time of year are nothing to sneeze at, or, rather, they are something to sneeze at.  The spring windy season is perhaps my least favorite here in the northern Chihuahuan Desert.  It can get downright nasty, as it did several days ago, or just be a consistent pain in the butt, like the winds were yesterday and so far today.  At least we haven't had blowing sand and dust for the past two days.  Becca and I did enjoy our exploration in the desert outback this morning despite the wind.

Ocotillo buds are starting to flower

Is the middle of the trail anyplace to take a break?

I guess so

Claret Cup Cactus and Banana Yucca

Yucca flowers

How to relax in the desert

How to look interested while relaxing

Mesquite tree leafing out

Mesquite tree beginning to bud

Small Mesquite in an arroyo

Mesquite trees are greening all over the desert

A cheery group of cactus flowers

Desert Marigold

Three-headed Torrey Yucca

Incredible flower display

Claret Cup

Claret Cup Cactus west of Tortugas Mountain

Can you get this toilet paper off my foot?

Is it gone?

This beautiful Ocotillo flower warrants several looks (see below)

Blooming nicely

Some buds look like Christmas tree lights

Another creamy-white yucca flower stalk

Feather Dalea