A girl and her dog

On one of our hikes exploring the desert. Winter in Phoenix is a delightful time. Those trees creating the tunnel here are Palo Verde. Their bark is green, pigmented by chlorophyll. It allows the bark to contribute to the plant's nourishment through photosynthesis. The leaves are like a soft yet stiff bristle. The desert is a harsh environment that encourages nature to find a way to survive. There are even types of grass that live out here and the hillsides can become bright green with grass after a rain.

The dog, Zeke, does not enjoy the desert as much as we do.  He is still learning that cactus will stick him.