A neighbor’s yard awakening.
My body moved very slowly this morning, the effects of Saturday’s run work-out, 1k and 2k tempo pace efforts. The almost immediate hill at the beginning of Red Rocks Trail was more work than normal, but the clearing mist promised a warm Spring day, welcome after high winds earlier in the week of up to 81 mph, a day of “wintry mix” (i.e., snow and rain), and temperatures still in the high twenties in the early mornings. We had an hour or so before Doug headed off to New York for a two-day work session, so a shortened hike fit us both well.
Red Rocks in early morning light.
The burgeoning blossoms on the trees complemented the stately tulips, daffodils, and pansies. Some views afforded a multitude of blossoms, deep pink (Hawthorne trees), white (apple and pear), and every shade of green (the many deciduous trees that show their true colors here in Boulder in the fall).
Lower Vista Overview trail (Flagstaff Mountain near Fifth).
We can see the effects of the winter snow and rains and now spring warmth daily as our favorite trees and neighbors’ yards explode with unexpected flowers and colors. We’re in a new neighborhood (to us) this spring so the changes are especially joyful to see.
Hawthorne Tree at height of pink blossoms.
The grasses on the hills look like green velvet; the clover and dandelions cover them with light purple and white and bright yellow; the boulders are more defined now that the surrounding browns and greys are turning to glowing colors.
Silver Lake Ditch at bottom of Vista Overlook Trail.
I loved the incredible fall colors last year but spring plantings renew my spirit and soul after too many months of sameness. Truly glorious days for walks and hikes, to savor nature as the plants reach to the sun, to hear birdsong once again outside open windows.
Tulips, daffodils, and other early flowers at pocket park near Spruce and Fifth.