Monthly Archives: March 2011

March 26, 2011 · 5:30 pm

Joshua Tree Blossoms Early in Joshua Tree National Park

A Joshua tree blossom shows off its beauty in Joshua Tree National Park. Photo credit: Rose Muenker

Joshua trees are a whimsical Dr. Seussesque “tree” that captured our imaginations during our tent camping outing at Joshua Tree National Park last week.

We were delighted to find one in blossom so early in the season — and in full view in the parking lot at Hidden Valley!

Actually, Joshua trees are a type of yucca plant. Growing in all sorts of wierd shapes, they thrive in the Mojave Desert section of the national park.

We felt fortunate to see a blossom, especially since we won’t be back in these parts for a long time.

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March 11, 2011 · 11:57 am

Spring Has Sprung!

Peony stamen

One rim of petals protects the peony's stamen. Photo credit: Rose Muenker

Bees are buzzing around the manzanita shrubs. Peony buds are beginning to open. And, convinced that male competitors are invading their courting territory, woodpeckers fiercely attack their reflections in our RV windows with such force they wake us at 6 am.  Amazingly, none of them have crash-landed! 

Peony blossoms droop, hiding the core of their beauty. Photo credit: Rose Muenker

The peony blossoms hang face down, which means you have to lie on the ground to fully appreciate them — and photograph them. It’s worth it!

It’s hard to believe that 10 days ago four inches of snow beautified the desert. I prefer the spring. But locals warn that we’ll have more cold spells before spring settles into southern California’s high desert.

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