Firsts!

We’ve had quite a number of ‘firsts’ on this expedition.

First time to the Texas coast, first wild alligator, first armadillo, first large groups of Javelinas, and likely a bunch of firsts I have already forgotten.

Today, however we did a couple more.  Today is Hailey’s first birthday.  This is a bit of a guess – as she was born in a barn as a ‘wild’ farm cat, but it’s as close as we can get. 

This was not really her birthday present, but she was pretending it was!

Also, today I found my first hummingbird nest, complete with hummingbird and egg!  It was in a Palo Verde tree and only about 5’ from the ground.  I had seen a hummingbird hanging around the area and suspected there might be a nest in a really bushy tree close by, but found it quite exposed actually.  I took a photo or two of her sitting on the nest, but then waited until I saw her head out on a long flight before approaching the nest for other photos.  

If only I had Al’s camera and skills from the Bayfield Bunch, and we could have had some really good photos!

It’s been a bit warm for hikes in the middle of the day, but I’ve been out a few times fairly early to look around some of the small peaks just behind where we are camped.

I could see this hole in a rock from the campsite, and sure enough, I was able to climb right up to check it out!

There was a small memorial on a nearby peak.

And a couple of nearby neighbors.

A lone tree on the ridge top, and a cactus that looked like it should not have survived!

And a cave, that was getting frequent use from something …

And lots of these little guys.  Hailey caught one, but I, um, ‘facilitated’ his escape!

Just up the hill from where I am camped – Bouse, Az in the distance.

(Same ending as last time!)

Our plan is to stay here for an undetermined length of time, then head to an undetermined location.  But that plan could change.