Proclaiming that spring has arrived in Southern California is pretty easy. The Flower Fields of Carlsbad have been announcing spring’s arrival for over 40 years.
 
Taking a trek to the fields between March and May is something you will never forget. The colors and sheer expanse of fields is captivating.  Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers make up the 55 acres at Carlsbad Ranch in Carlsbad, California. If you find yourself in Southern California at this time of year, it is a must see. There is a cost and you do have to purchase tickets on line before you go but if you are a lover of flowers or photography it is well worth it.

Washington’s state’s Skagit Valley is one of the go-to places to see tulips in the USA. A 90 minute drive from the Seattle airport, the Skagit Valley is home to many flower farms. We choose to visit RoozenGaarde which was delightful. Despite my best laid plans, only 10% of the tulips were in full bloom which actually worked well for me because I don’t like people in my pictures. There were only a few of us who braved the cold, windy Easter morning.  Daffodils and hyacinths seem to thrive in chilly weather.  I was surprised at all the different varieties of daffs. 
 
As we drove around the area, we came upon an unexpected delight.  Thousands of snow geese were resting in the crop fields which were part of their migration route. We were told they visit there almost every April. They aren't too exciting when they're on the ground but when thousands of them flew over our heads, it was magical. 
 
If you decide to visit Skagit Valley in the spring, I suggest you plan to go during the third or fourth week of April; and bring a warm coat.