Spring Color

A hike in our local Cuyamaca Rancho State Park has inspired me to consider color and how our senses  contribute to our feeling of place and time.  Hiking in the park last week, the ceanothus was in bloom; it is called California Lilac for a good reason, and for the several hours of the hike we were surrounded by the fragrant white flowers on both sides of the trail.

The petals of the white flowers were in our hats, clothes, and shoes.   This area burned 7 years ago and the ceanothus has come back vigorously.  You can see the burned trunks of pine trees in the photo.  But the oaks trees are coming back.

Fresh oak leaves are sprouting from new growth at the base of the burned trees.  Although the pine trees won't regrow, the oaks are made of sturdier stuff and root sprout.  Look at the gentle blending of color in these brand-new leaves.  White lilac flowers, rosy-purple new growth, fresh green, and tan to brown.  Great inspiration for a dye day.