Today is the summer solstice!
According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac (linked above), “In the Northern Hemisphere, the June solstice (aka summer solstice) occurs when the Sun travels along its northernmost path in the sky. This marks the astronomical start of summer in the northern half of the globe. (In the Southern Hemisphere, it’s the opposite: the June solstice marks the astronomical start of winter when the Sun is at its lowest point in the sky.)
“This solstice marks the official beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, occurring when Earth arrives at the point in its orbit where the North Pole is at its maximum tilt (about 23.5 degrees) toward the Sun, resulting in the longest day and shortest night of the calendar year. (By longest “day,” we mean the longest period of sunlight hours.) On the day of the June solstice, the Northern Hemisphere receives sunlight at the most direct angle of the year.”
The pic of the nearly-full moon rising over Spring Creek Basin landmarks McKenna Peak, Temple Butte, submarine ridge and Brumley Point was taken last night.
What is THAT crazy little alien-looking bee on these prickly pear cacti? There were two of them, and they were busily busy in the depths of these lovely blooms along a road in the basin.
Spring Creek Basin Mustangs 
Far…and near. Great photos, TJ of great landmarks and little creatures. The bee is a Sweat Bee. I love that iridescent green!
A Sweat Bee! Never heard of such a thing, and I’m not sure I’ve ever looked closely enough – or at the right time – so see such things. Super cool, and thank you for the ID!
what a beautiful landscape shot! Sounds like Durango might get its share of rain soon. Hoping you do as well ☔️
Crazy of craziness: We’re actually under a flood watch tomorrow?!?!!? I can hardly imagine such water (we’ve had it … but time’s passage has nearly erased the memories from my beleaguered brain!)! If it sends water down Spring Creek to replenish the seeps and puts even some puddles in the ponds (only one pond is still holding some water), I will be beyond happy!
Just beautiful! Love the strange little bee!
My heart’s home. 🙂 I never get tired of the view. That shocking electric-green bee! Wild! 🙂
What a serene and beautiful capture. Makes me feel that all is well, and I could sit there and just breathe it all in.
I love the solitude out there!
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