On a recent trip to Nevada, my sister and I took a three day/two night girl’s trip which included a day spent in Death Valley. The weather was perfection with the sun adding warmth, color, light and shadows. It was a magical place and a dream to photograph. The photos below are my favorites.
The word is out, butterflies are welcome in my garden…pass it on. 
This week even more beautiful iris in bloom.
from Wikipedia: Las Vegas Springs Preserve consists of 180 acres dedicated to nature walks and displays and is owned and operated by the Las Vegas Valley Water District. The Preserve is located approximately three miles west of downtown Las Vegas.
My recent trip to Nevada included a family reunion which in and of itself was filled with a lot of laughter, simultaneous conversations and catching up on each others lives. That would have been more than enough but my sister, a new Nevada resident, had researched area attractions that would appeal to our gang. Not only was Springs Preserve a huge hit, it was much more than we could’ve anticipated. We availed ourselves two of the many offerings, the Butterfly Habitat and the Botanical Gardens.
For many years, Spence and I had a bass boat that allowed us to venture into small channels and inlets that larger boats couldn’t access. These photos from ten years ago brought back sweet memories of peaceful times spent observing the beauty of nature while enjoying each other’s company.
My garden is showing off the prettiest blooms this autumn.
In spite of the new baffle, this determined squirrel watched me fill this bird feeder with peanuts and did not delay as soon as I went inside. Â I have no idea how he managed it but it’s not the first time I’ve caught him doing his acrobatic moves. I think he’s training for a squirrel Cirque du Soleil act.
And from a week ago…you have to give him credit for being determined….
Within the last week, my irises and peonies are blooming, lily of the valley and bleeding hearts are finishing their cycle. Â With a heavy rain last night following several hot days this week, my herb garden is starting to show growth as are my tomato and peppers plants. It’s a joy to share my oasis; this slideshow features my peonies, irises and some of the mixed flower and herb beds.
