Spring Into Summer

The solstice the other day means summer has officially begun. I have been reflecting upon our spring here in the bay area. We not only had a wet spring (we desparately needed the rain which turned to snow in the mountains) but also a cool one. The plants and flowers have been a bit confused because they weren't sure if it was winter or spring..the weather just kept changing from sunny to rainy to sunny to rainy to cloudy and semi-warm to cool to cold to hot to cool to semi-warm. I wouldn't mind it one bit if our spring weather continued into summer. Actually, so far, it hasn't been too bad. Just keep this up Mr. Weather!

In any case, here are some of the delights I witnessed, experienced and enjoyed these past several months, some in my own yard/town and some as I hiked with my sister up by "the Dish" or at Rancho San Antonio:

* Months filled with copious amounts of rain and cool breezes I.L.O.V.E.D.I.T...

* Balls of fluff peering over the edge of a nest at the top of a dead tread, "bullet ridden" with holes made by the adult peckers.

* A mother turkey clucking away as we approached her chicks hidden in the tall grass. Occasionally a baby bird would "fly" to catch up with mama.

* Dozens of baby bunnies hopping and darting to and fro, across the trail.

* Two five foot long snakes performing their mating dance right next to the trail (for over a half an hour)...the only thing missing was some exotic music.

* Streams (which are usually dry) bulging with water...

* Cows lazily chewing their cud standing by the side of the trail. Their big brown eyes piercing you as you walk on by. The tan ones are my faves.

* Papa and Momma quail with their brood following in a line behind them.

* Patches and patches of poppies, daffodils, and tulips blooming in the median strips or along the side of the road.

* Lush green rolling fields filled with birds.

* Apricots on the trees near the library.

* Star jasmine in full bloom....this might not be too fun for those with hayfever or allergies.

* Cool breezes, big puffy clouds and a gigantic round moon in the sky.

These just a few of the things that I have enjoyed this spring.

Bring on the warm lazy summer! (Glad I work in an air conditioned office).