It’s bluebonnet season here in Texas. Ah, the bluebonnet—a flower that’s basically the Beyoncé of the botanical world. You know, the one that shows up, steals the spotlight, and leaves everyone else wondering why they even bothered to bloom. But let’s be real: this year in Central Texas, the bluebonnets have been a bit of a letdown. It’s like they decided to take a sabbatical or something. I mean, come on, guys!
It might be our recent lack of rain or maybe it has something to do with the Katy Perry weather we’ve been having. You know what I’m talking about here, “it’s hot then it’s cold, it’s yes then it’s no…” Today, I swear, my phone told me it, “feels like 38 degrees.” The other day? It was a balmy 92. Go home, Texas weather, you’re drunk!
Now, I did manage to find a few brave little bluebonnet souls peeking through the grass over at the Cedar Park post office, and let me tell you, they were putting on a show like they were auditioning for a reality TV series. “Look at me! I’m fabulous!” they seemed to shout, while I stood there, camera in hand, trying to capture their glory amidst a sea of underwhelming blooms. Did I mention it’s been windy too? Oh, yes, that helped me out so much. (For those of you who are not photographers, the wind is not my friend in this situation.)
Picture this: I’m out there, armed with my trusty camera and a questionable sense of direction, trying to find the perfect angle. But of course, nature has other plans. The wind decides to throw a tantrum, and I’m left wrestling with my camera like it’s a wild animal. “Stay still, you little diva!” I mutter, as the bluebonnets sway mockingly in the breeze. It was like they were taunting me set to the backdrop of the postal trucks and PO Boxes.
And let’s not forget the delightful little critters that seem to think they own the place. Bees buzzing around like they’re auditioning for a reality show, and butterflies flitting about as if they’re on a mission to find the best selfie spot. It’s a whole production out there, and I’m just trying to get a decent photo without looking like I’m about to topple over into a patch of poison ivy. Did I mention the rattlesnakes? Oh, every time you see the bluebonnets, you can rest assured (or not!) that it’s also rattlesnake mating season. Nothing like sitting down, getting all comfortable in the mud, and hearing that old familiar sound.
But here’s the thing: amidst the chaos, there’s a certain magic in these moments. The way the sunlight dances on the petals, the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and the gentle hum of nature—it’s a reminder that life, much like a garden, is a beautiful mess. Bluebonnets are fleeting and the hot dog days of summer will be here soon enough. Rattlesnakes be damned, I am going to make the most of a less than spectacular season.
So, fellow photographers, if you find yourself in a garden filled with bluebonnets this year, take a moment to soak it all in. Embrace the chaos, laugh at the bees, tiptoe around the rattlesnakes, and maybe even join in on the flower’s fabulousness. After all, if these little blooms can strut their stuff with such confidence, why can’t we?
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a date with a bluebonnet patch and a camera that’s probably going to give me a run for my money. Who knows? Maybe I’ll finally capture that perfect shot—or at least a hilarious outtake to add to my collection. Happy blooming!
Oh, and for those of you in the area, the patch over by the Cedar Park post office is just a little past peak. It’s not that great but, honestly, there’s such slim pickings this year, it’s probably the best we can get given the situation. It is still big enough to do a portrait sitting for a small family but I would not wait too long. It is fading fast. The season this year will be later (already has been actually) and shorter on account of it being not such a good year. Get those bluebonnets while they last!
Until next time…
