Manassas snow

Not as much hiking, photographing and whatnot last several months but trying to turn that around.  Last weekend just a touch of snow made a brisk hike at manassas battlefield a beautiful sight.

More and more flowers -- Longwood Gardens

Finally getting around to posting pics from Longwood Gardens in PA from a few months ago.  Beautiful place.

Sunflower Fields

Today visited a wildlife management area near Poolsville, MD, less than an hour out of the city, to enjoy a few of the sunflower fields that are peaking now.  It was warm and muggy but worth it, especially once we found a hidden field away from the parking areas where there were few people and a drone videographer getting ready to launch.  

Trillium hike

A few weeks ago, hiked with friends on a steamy Sunday along the Appalachian Trail in Virginia, near Thompson Wildlife Management Area, in search of trillium.  And we found more trillium than I've ever seen! Along with many other wildflowers.  Made it back to the car just as the skies opened up in a crazy downpour.

 The trail - the white blaze signifies the Appalachian Trail - was flanked on both sides by fields of trillium.

Found it this way!

Sherwood Gardens

A few weeks ago checked out Sherwood Gardens in Baltimore.  The tulips were 

very much on their way out but the azaleas were very happy.  

Lisa and I relaxed, I took photos and Elena climbed trees.  

spring flowers

It's been a weird few months weather-wise with temperatures see-sawing warm and cold regardless of the season.  The bluebells came 

a little early this year and a few weeks ago, I hiked the Potomac Heritage Trail while they were in full bloom. 

 Went back the next weekend at the crack of dawn for some of that magical early photographer's light.  Bluebells already on their way out but wild blue phlox and red trillium were out.

 And violets and mayapples too.

Seven

Reminiscing about my trip to the grand canyon and sedona six years ago that I took to mark one year after my breast cancer diagnosis.  Today is seven.  

St. Pete escape

Last month, an escape from the cold and from everything to St. Petersburg, Florida.  I visited with my cousin and her son, walked and photographed the beach for sunrise and for sunset, and enjoyed the Dali museum and its Frida Kahlo exhibit.  The escape was much needed, much appreciated, and I already need another one!