All four of the amaryllis flowers on the first stalk are now open. I had to wait for some sunshine to take this picture since it was raining this morning. Click on the image to enlarge.
Home & Garden
Two Years Ago – Courtyard Progress
About two years ago, we contracted Kevin to build our courtyard. There happened to be a very nice sunset in progress then after the delivery of materials had arrived. We were still sleeping on a mattress and box spring on the floor of the office in those days.
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A truck with a forklift delivered five palettes of concrete blocks and two palettes of mortar to the house today. We expect that the masons will show up any time this week to continue working on the courtyard.
We are looking forward to finishing the courtyard and getting gates installed so we can let the dogs out in the daytime.
Image: Sunset over the concrete blocks and mortar. Click image to enlarge.
A crew is scheduled to show up tomorrow to permanently install the internet/TV cable. When we had the cable installed a couple of weeks ago, the technician had to dig a temporary ditch to bury the cable feed to the terminal across the road. Lately, the cable has been exposed in a few places which made us worry that it might be damaged.
Red Amaryllis
Two of the four amaryllis buds opened today. These are very bright red in color. After these have opened and are gone, there is another flower stalk on this plant with more red flowers to come! Click on the image to enlarge.
Saguaro and the Waxing Crescent Moon
Today was another clear (and cold) high desert day. The waxing crescent moon could be seen just next to the center upraised arms of our big saguaro cactus between the courtyard and the driveway. Click on the image to enlarge.
Marjan Roses
These beautiful salmon pink roses have been gracing our great room since we brought them home last Thursday. Very pretty!
I did an internet search and found a description of Marjan roses at FiftyFlowers.com:
A fresh salmon orange rose, Marjan has a slender head with a high petal count that fully opens into a classic bloom. Its color is unique, and often described as a dark pinkish-orange. For a fiery effect, combine this rose with any hot or light pink wedding bouquet, table centerpiece or flower arrangement.
Click on the image to enlarge.
Hidden Hedgehog Cactus
We discovered another hedgehog cactus behind one of the palo verde trees on the hill behind our house. It is surrounded by deadwood and low shrubs. One of these days, I’m tempted to dig it up, transfer it to a large pot and bring it down to the courtyard. Hedgehog cacti produce brilliant pink flowers in the spring.
