Weather for Seattle, WA

50°F | °C Sun Mon Tue Wed Current: Shower Wind: S at 7 mph Humidity: 93% 55°F | 46°F 56°F | 44°F 57°F | 42°F 62°F | 43°F

Okay, where was I? Oh yes, Palm Springs…the Smoke Tree Ranch in Palm Springs is a hidden gem that seems to have been, ever so pleasantly, lost in time. The simple cottages, homes and ranch house are surrounded by acres of pristine desert and arid mountains, just as it was in 1930 when the ranch was created.

When you arrive, bikes seem to magically appear at your abode, and there you leave them when you depart. Between arrival and departure, my bicycle is my absolute favorite mode of transportation around the ranch.

 Perched upon my two wheeler I could really enjoy the desert as I went to tennis, the pool, a pals place or lunch. I loved riding by the sand, cacti and wildlife and seeing all of the colorful pops of fruits and flowers.

My favorite sights were the poppies and the citrus trees.

I always love a poppy, any poppy, the tight pods and papery petals are so spectacular.

This is the first time I’ve met these poppies, and I must admit, they really took me aback.  This giant patch of Matilija Poppies grew in front of a home I rode by everyday. I’m not sure what was more appealing, the sprawling blue~green patch of foliage..

or the gorgeous saucer sized flowers {Matilija’s are the largest flowers in the poppy family}…I think it was just a perfect combination.

Matilija Poppy, (romneya coulteri)

Lemon tree, Smoke Tree Ranch

and enjoying the clear blue sky.