After a fortnight of recurrent rains borne on tumultuous monoliths of ethereal bluster, Cooper and I revel in the prospect of sodden trails and resurgence of shortgrass prairie life. We meander towards the trail head. Overcast skies and fifty-degree temperatures liven our pace. En route we find that previously waterless clay pans scattered across the Llano tablelands are again opulent playa lakes. They teem with ephemeral activity. We forgo the slippery red ooze which paves ranch roads in favor of game trails. They wind across emerald blankets of grass. They slice through countless wildflowers intent on displacing withered prairie straw. Now and then elusive rabbits break cover and entice Cooper to lively foot races. He obliges without restraint. I pause to appreciate the aroma of damp soil and sage on the cool morning breeze. My heart enjoys the dance.
© Ilija Lukić 2014
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| Sodden Trail (Llano Estacado east of Clovis, New Mexico USA) |
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| Purple Majesty (Monarda punctata aka Spotted Beebalm) |
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| Spokes Of Fire (Gaillardia pulchella aka Indian Blanket Flower) |
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| First Cholla Rose (Cylindropuntia imbricata aka Cane Cholla) |
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| Up Close And Personal (Glochids on Cane Cholla fruit) |
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