A friend and I spent this last Wednesday afternoon and evening exploring and taking photographs of a local beach called Crystal Cove. As the sun was setting we headed over to a restaurant right on the beach. This is what we saw from our table. Jodi-

This cactus came from the King Ranch in South Texas...it was only about 2 years old when this was taken...It's about 8 years old now and is huge...The stems or paddles that are quite small here in this photo are now as large as dessert plates at least 6 inches across...and it is covered in a mass of blooms when it is time for it to bloom...It is an amazing site to see...This year, I am going to divide it and put it into a couple more places on the property. This post was edited by ruthieg__tx on Sat, Dec 7, 13 at 10:20

Yes, she is, Gazania. That was from several years ago, I think it might have been her first egg. We had her for 6 years before she laid an egg. Susan, I love that photo, a true prize. Of course, I love German Shephards, they are magnificent creatures. My favorite dog was Duchess, and she was my constant companion.

The gardens have been transformed into a winter wonderland - beautiful! Annie, the only thing better than chocolate would be gold covered chocolate - almost too pretty to eat! Igmd, I love how the birds tails can be seen poking out from under the snow covered shelter of the feeders. I'm sure the birds appreciate it! Looks inviting, Jim. Street food is the best and I think one of the best ways to experience local food as well. It hasn't been all prettied up for the tourists and is the real deal.