Cactus in Bloom

They're not very big, just slightly larger than my thumbnail, but these tiny cactus blossoms were a real find today.  A friend and I trekked down to Borrego Springs to see what wildflowers might be in bloom.  We were slightly disappointed, not seeing as much as we had last year.  But we figured we might be about a week too early as we did see signs of buds and new plants.  One of the best ways to find flowers is to take a hike off the beaten path.  And that's where we found this lone cactus starting to burst out in blooms. 

"Cactus in Bloom"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

Momma and Baby Camel

On my wildflower trek yesterday I came upon fields with these "rusty" sculptures.  Everything from pre-historic creatures to several rows of grape vines and farm workers.  I was fascinated.  In the middle of a grassy field stood pre-historic elephants, sloths and other creatures.  And they weren't all in the same field.  They were scattered over large plots in the Borrego Springs countryside.  Apparently a local philanthropist owns the land and has commissioned a Mexican artist to create these pieces for everyone to enjoy.  It was so wonderful to have such a display of art in a public place for all to enjoy.  Well worth the trip.

"Momma and Baby Camel"    © Kathy Dunham 2010

Ajo Lily

A rare find in the desert, this Ajo Lily was the highlight of my day today.  Searching for wildflowers, I found a huge patch of these in Borrego Springs, about an hour's drive south of La Quinta.  You would have thought I just walked into a candy shop and was told everything was free.  I couldn't take enough pictures.  Ajo comes from the Spanish word for garlic.  I'm not sure why, as this beautiful flower does not smell anything like garlic or look like it. 

"Ajo Lily"    © Kathy Dunham 2010

Is it Spring Yet?

Most of California has been in a heat spell and the thought of a cool, brightly flowered spring sounds might good right now.

"It is Spring Yet?" © Kathy Dunham 2009

More Desert Wildfowers

These tiny (1/4") delicate blossoms struggle to gain a foothold on the dry desert floor. One of the pleasures of hunting for wildflowers is finding these miniature treasures. While fields covered with blossoms are spectacular, it's these little, hard to find, beauties that make it all worth while.

"More Desert Wildflowers" © Kathy Dunham 2009