by Murray Balkcom
South Walton, FL – I hope I don’t jinx it, but thus far this winter, I think we had about seven cold days. Punxsutawney Phil indicated another six weeks of winter, but since 1887, he has been right only 39% of the time, and even if he is correct, I’ll take another six weeks of high temps near 70F degrees!
Spring has come early in 2012 and I think it’s here to stay. The first blooms in our area are typically produced on the False Rosemary (Conradina canescens), which grows wild throughout the sandy regions of South Walton. It blankets the Pine forests and can be seen on the higher elevations around many coastal dune lakes, including Western Lake. I took this photo this morning in the Pt Washington State Forest. In the open locations where the False Rosemary collects more sunlight, you will see the purple blooms coming to life and attracting the busy bees, and soon, you will see it in full bloom most everywhere. Get out and Explore 30A & Sowal! We have the perfect weather for an eco tour of Western Lake on kayaks with Walco Eco Tours.
