it's almost ridiculous...

Andrew Henry snapped this photo with his phone (so please excuse the quality) while taking Jake out for a run.  Is this flowering cactus not just ridiculously gorgeous?  If you've never visited the southwest, I bet you had no idea right?  I have lived here my entire life and it still takes my breath away.  The contrast is what gets me. 

The rigid cactus petals are such a pale green, they almost seem colorless.  Full of sharp needles, they warn you to keep away.  THEN suddenly, and almost without warning, you walk by one day and BAM!  They have exploded with color.  Flowers so delicate and vibrant they beg you to get closer, but you can't.  These are not fragrant flowers to be cut and displayed.  No, these belong only to the desert.

Did you notice how many are about to bloom?  I'll be going out for my walks to check on this one daily.  I do wonder if the homeowners can see me out there taking photos of their front yard........

to live in Phoenix...

means you have roses in the early spring (and winter)...

I spied this beauty in my neighbors yard while out for a walk the other day.  Can't you just smell it?  Roses are my mother's favorite flowers.  I'm partial to Calla Lilies & Tulips - what about you?

walk with me...

For those of you not living in the southwestern desert of the United States right now, I'm sorry.  The daytime temperatures are in the mid-70's.  The long shadows of winter are still visiting and the desert is alive.  This is absolutely our best time of year.  Soon to followed by our worst, but let's savor it while we can shall we? 

My walk to the mailbox last night took a little longer than usual.  I was trying to "be present" and it was worth it.  The plants in my front yard are putting on quite a show.  Come June, they will be withering from the heat and begging for even a drop of water, but for now, walk with me to my mailbox...

Beautiful no?  Seriously, all these plants are just in my yard and I don't exactly have a "green thumb" if you know what I mean.  What is your favorite time of year where you live?