You'd Think It Was Spring

Looking west

Even though it was 45F at the start of our hike this morning it seemed very much like a spring day; the sun shone brightly, a slight breeze felt refreshing, and birds were flying and chirping everywhere.

I had planned only on doing a shorter trek--down the arroyo that parallels LDR-A, along the east/west cross trail to Right Branch Arroyo, and then up that arroyo to its head and out on the steep hill to the upper flatland road--but because the weather was so beautiful we decided to incorporate a trip up and down Left Branch Arroyo.

Willow and Frio were both incredibly well behaved today; of course, not encountering any fleeing critters greatly enhanced their good behavior.

East to the Organs

Interesting clouds this morning

Organ Mountains sky

Soaptree Yucca stalks

This & next:  long view across the Mesilla Valley

House Finch shows how to cling to a yucca saber

Same House Finch

This & next:  swirly clouds

What's that look, Mr. Frio?

This & next:  Organ Mountains

Tortugas and the Organs

Organ Mountains again

Willow and Frio

Deadwood

Tree swirl

This & next:  Willow and Frio

This & next:  dead tree

Last 2:  Ocotillo swirl