Here are the usual suspects in the backyard. Pansies and petunias are thriving with more light, moderate temps, and a few good soaking from the winter rains. I added geranium over the weekend. If you're a fan of wildflowers now's the time to be thinking about the Sonoran desert. The bucket on the right is a Chinese Water Bucket from the early part of the 20th century. Got it a place called Blue Crate Findings. The CWB has taken a few good soakings and it's hanging tough. I've got a bigger red one in front that's holding primrose. The folks at Blue Crate are always friendly and helpful.

You may remember shot of the yellow hisbiscus from last year. Here's a cousin of the yellow hibiscus, purple hibiscus. This is the year's first bloom of the purple hibiscus, which sit in our front yard, which is north facing. Purple hibiscus will prosper as the sun moves northward and expose the northern face bushes to more direct light.

The tree out front is an evergreen pear. It doesn't bring forth fruit but it does burst into blossom near the same weekend every year. The bloom are white and soft; however, rather than giving off the sweet bouquet that one associates with citrus, it gives off a sour aroma that is surprising more than unpleasant. The local wild bees don't mind. They're busy in the tree from dawn till dusk. You can see the ancient McDowell Mountains in the background.

Here's niece Di with one of planet's newest and gentlest souls, daughter Ellie. Di and Ellie made a quick trip from their Baltimore home to grace us with their presence. Ellie is a great kid and Di's a great mom. We're better people for having them on our team.