Breezy and Humid

This and the next:  starting off on the high flatland road

It was cooler when we got started this morning, clouds and breezy conditions making for a very comfortable long trek.  We didn't think twice about hiking up to Second Arroyo and ducking inside for an extended break, which included getting hydrated.  

While we were in there we saw a woman jogging with a dog, the same woman and dog with whom we had a fraught encounter in the past.  She and the pooch never spotted us.  They were the only other outdoor enthusiasts in our section of the northern Chihuahuan Desert while we were enjoying nature.

The inbound leg got a little uncomfortable when the sun made a prolonged appearance not masked by any clouds.  We were glad to be heading back to the waiting CR-V and a cold blast of air conditioning once we climbed inside.

This and the next:  Ocotillos at sunrise

Long view of Tortugas and the Organ Mountains

Willow and Frio in Second Arroyo

This and the next:  doobiesque clouds

Southern section of the Organ Mountains

Another long view of Tortugas and the Organs

Heelers

Dove

Chihuahuan Desert scene

Double Barrel Cactus

Blossoming bud on the double Barrel Cactus