Post Deluge Trek

This and the next:  lush vegetation for the desert

It started raining at 6:25 a.m. yesterday and didn't stop until 8:30 p.m.  At times the rain poured down and at others it just showered moderately on a consistent basis with almost no breaks.  As mentioned in yesterday's blog post Becca and I got absolutely drenched trying to get in a short hike.

Although it was cloudy and cool when we started off west of Tortugas Mountain this morning the sun soon appeared and heated things up.  It was beginning to feel somewhat uncomfortable just as we were finishing up due to the moisture-laden atmosphere.

There were other outdoor enthusiasts on and about the mountain, though we only had a direct encounter with one, a guy we see fairly often on the west side.  He and I waved to each other, and that was it--no wasted breath on a verbal greeting.

Becca leading the way

Small Mequite Tree still covered in raindrops

Ms. B taking a break in her favorite spot

There she is

This and the next:  Soaptree Yucca fruit

Yucca fruit in front of an Ocotillo

This and the next 4:  the same Northern Mockingbird

Looking into the soul of Soaptree Yucca

One, among many, starting to ripen

Closer look

The "cups" atop Prickly Pears retaining rainwater

A wet Loggerhead Shrike