Yesterday was quite the sensory day, beginning with a cool and oh-so-pleasant high desert morning temperature with all sorts of wonderful birds to appreciate as they awakened with us at sunrise.
As soon as the sun was high enough however, it became hot and stayed hot all day–as in over 100 degrees. We had a marvelous birding day (more on that later), in spite of the extreme heat, hiking high up into Madera canyon to chase a Trogon, of which we only had a glimpse as we were serenaded by his “dog-bark” song. (lots more fab birds seen up that canyon, with a couple more “lifers”!) We then went over to Patagonia, a spectacular birding area on private land that is maintained by the local Audubon group. (lots ‘o hummer photos from there, to come).
Anyhow, we got back to camp around 5 PM, hoping the clouds that were forming over the mountains would find their way to where we were. It remained close to 100 degrees, but we were kept cool enough by Vanda’s air conditioner while I cooked dinner, then cleaned up. Finally, those clouds did gather above us, blocking the harsh sun with a drop in temperature over the next hour of at least 15 degrees. Delicious.
We stayed outside to experience the approaching storm. The wind picked up considerably, carrying goose-bump temperature breezes as the sky continued to gather and darken. What occurred next, over the ensuing 45 minutes was one of the most incredible sensory experiences I have known. The breeze smelled heavily of petrichor and desert fauna as it ruffled through our hair and clothing; the high rain clouds misted us; the sky was dark in front of us but pink behind us as the sun continued to drop; sheet lightening was all around us, as was the thunder.
After soaking in these smells, sights, sounds, and skin sensations, the rain began in earnest, bringing large drops. We retreated into Vanda, so grateful for what we had just experienced! Mother Nature at her finest, having gifted us quite a sensory show.
It rained for another hour, continuing to cool the air as we fell asleep (yes, we used the blanket–a rarity on this trip, thus far!). Alas, my words may not convey the richness of having been out in the storm, soaking in all that nature had to give us, but truly, I was deeply touched by this experience.
