I really need to have the kids start nature notebooks.  We've had some lovely experiences the last few days, and it would be nice to have them docu-draw...lol...can I invent that term?

The weekend was fun, as we went to Death Valley along with my parents and a couple of my siblings and their families.  The flower bloom is much later than last year, when we went the first weekend of March.  Whereas last year there were massive areas of yellow, this year we only found patches along the roadside.  The signs are there, though, and in a couple more weeks, there should be plenty of floral splendour for all!  We saw some patches of deep purple on the roadside, my favorite.  Also, a couple of five-spots hidden amidst it all. 



We spent much of the afternoon near the Furnace Creek Visitor's Center, where a big tree over the creek occupied most of the kids for the afternoon, while the big folks relaxed and chatted.  One of the siblings headed back to Vegas, while the rest of us travelled on to Beatty...not far from home, but we spent the night so we could see the cousins in the morning, and visit the Death Valley Nut and Candy Co. 

After making our morning purchases and saying farewell, we headed home.  We decided to return via Furnace Creek, as it was only 25 miles more than the straight shot on 95, but far more interesting scenery. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

More nature study yesterday, we got together with a family midday at a nearby park.  On previous visits, we've noticed a huge nest in one of the trees.  This time we saw the mama bird, a very large hawk, as a passerby was kind enough to identify.  We could hear it's cries, the high pitched tones of the little ones, and it came and went a few times, apparently feeding its babies.  Very interesting.

The temperatures have kicked up to the low 80's this afternoon, and it's feeling warm.  The breeze is nice.  Garden work is in gear, though planting is yet a ways off.  A report on the news concerned me, stating that many seed companies are running out of some seeds.  I made my orders asap, and was unable to get a few things.  Nothing essential, thankfully, and one, I found locally.  Still, I'm glad I got that done. 

We're saving our auracana eggs, and I hope to get them incubating later in the week.  In the meantime, it will be more mornings outside as we adjust to the temperatures.

Blessings from the ranch!