Mud Ranch’s Real Dirt

We live in a gorgeous area of California, somewhat still hidden from the daily rush of the busier places.  Over looking us is a large wilderness area which we call locally, “The Alps.”  They are rugged snow capped mountains of granite which house multiple lakes and creeks with lush meadows.  Amongst all this breathtaking beauty is my absolute favorite flower, the Leopard Lily (I commonly call it a Tiger Lily which it is not.)

They grow in very wet, shady areas right on the edge of running water.  I have often seen them in marshy meadows where they are growing in a couple of inches of water — often they are neighbors of fern.

I had gone fishing with Hubby and a friend up at the base of the Alps a week or so ago and as we fished down the creek, I had noticed a small stream pouring in to the creek.  I followed it up the side of the mountain a little ways and found a patch of my flowers.  The sight of them always makes little butterflies in my stomach.

This was a nice sized patch but it is even better when you find a whole meadow full of them.  Their elegance is incomparable.

Hubby recently came back from one of his log moving adventures to our friend’s mill and brought back a small bouquet from our friend’s spring.  He knew that a little handful of these lilies is the way to this girl’s heart.

The Leopard Lily is so delicate and fine, the colors are vibrant.  I enjoy every second of enjoying them — especially with my lens!