Interesting Encounters

Early shade break

As Becca and I were headed back in this morning we ran into three hikers going the opposite direction on a narrow section of the upper foothills trail.  Becca--being the good and well-trained girl she is--stepped to the side of the trail and laid down.  The woman said, "Hello gorgeous" (to Becca), and one of the men said, "Now that's a smart dog."  I was very proud of my canine companion.  A short while later, while we headed down a short section of dirt road, we saw a man riding a horse toward us, his dog leading both equus and equestrian.  Again Becca went to the side of the road and laid down.  The man's dog was well behaved and passed after a quick glance.  The man gave a good-morning greeting.  And the horse gave us a longer look as it clopped by.  All the while Becca lay in the same position, not advancing until I said, "Let's go."  Lately she's been responsive like this 90 to 95 percent of the time, which is excellent behavior.

Tortugas Mountain (left) and the Organ Mountains through an Ocotillo

Black-throated Sparrow (Amphispiza bilineata)

Skeleton and fruit of a Soaptree Yucca

Long view to the Organ Mountains

Through an Ocotillo forest

Another view of the greening desert

Good way to use Ocotillo shade

Many Ocotillos are really leafing out now

Yet another look at the greenery