Valleys are greening up and as we pass through areas of higher elevation pines are replacing juniper and scrub.  Just west of Durango we spot our first elk.  Small bands shelter along the tree line and individuals browse in meadows higher up the mountain slopes.  They are beautiful creatures and I am always excited to see them when we find ourselves in their habitat.  We are definitely still in the transition zone and find ourselves back into scrub for the final leg of today’s drive to Navajo Lake State Park.

We settle into camp along the shoreline all the while serenaded by the delightfully bright melody of meadow larks.  At least two species of flycatchers dart from one grass tuft to another.  Grassland sparrows add their tumbling song.  Vividly attired white-on-black magpies dart around us.  I open the window and screen, pour a glass of wine, put my feet up, and spend the rest of the afternoon watching the birds.  I’m happy.

The next morning, we see new splashes of color.  A pair of brilliantly orange bullock’s orioles moves among the scrub and we spot a mountain bluebird so blue it seems artificial.  A band of deer make an appearance enjoying the grassy shore.

I think maybe we are about ready to move out of the desert.