Dinner Party at 8000 Feet

We took a drive up Catalina Highway and came across this little gathering.

Sunset was beautiful tonight.

I regret that I wasn't up at Gates Pass tonight but by the time I realized that it was going to be spectacular it was to late to do anything but shoot.

Saguaro National Park East

Ocotillo and Saguaro


Curved Billed Trasher
Gila Monster-Gila Monsters are one of only two species of poisonous lizards found in North America.
This is the only one I've seen in 4 years.

Up the Catalina Highway in the Coranado National Forest

Looking back at the Tucson Mountains way,way,way across the valley.
The road winds up the mountain revealing spectacular views in every direction.
Looking back at the road from far above.
In times of heavy rain water rushes down the mountain and in this case washed away one lane of the roadway.
Summerhaven rests at the very top of the mountain and is still recovering from a devastating fire more than five years ago.

Five A.M.

The Fledgeling

Nap Time

Make sure you click on these photo's to see the enlarged versions. 

Incense Passion Flower

This is one of the most unusual and beautiful flowers I have ever seen. It also smells terrific.

PATAGONIA LAKE

These are shots taken at Patagonia Lake in the Santa Rita Mountains. It's only a few miles from the Mexican Border and can be accessed through Sonoita which is really quite beautiful especially in October when we were there last.






American Coot

The White Dove of the Desert

The "Mission"

I liked these paintings that are directly on the wall.
Inside is very ornate.
Completed renovation of the first bell tower.
A cozy place to meditate.
San Xavier del Bac

More from Kitt Peak

This is the view at the bottom of the road leading up the mountain.
Sheer cliffs.

So intent! 

This telescope has a 360 degree observatory that is worth the trip all by itself. You can see for miles and miles in all directions! You can see it just below the dome at the triangles. Really a great experience.