The first day of fall brings us so many new possibilities - the end of one season and the beginning of another. Fall breezes, colors, and all things pumpkin. In the desert fall is not as distinct. Changes are subtle. On this equinox, rain was in the forecast and the clouds were hovering over the mountains. It was a perfect morning for a hike on Pontatoc Trail. This was my first time hiking this beautiful trail. Once the sounds of civilization grew distant and the sounds of the desert could be heard, I was content. It is easy to bask in the surrounding beauty and let the desert envelops you. This trail meanders through boulders and along a canyon ridge. We saw heart-shaped prickly pear, nests full of life, cactus blooms, and more. While turning a corner we came upon a desert tortoise, who seemed to be sunning himself on a rock. It was such a sight - this, being my first sighting of a desert tortoise in the wild. We watched him from a distance and thanked him for gracing us with his presence. We continued along the trail toward the top of the ridge line to the vast overlook of the city. In true desert fashion, it started getting hot so we turned back at this point. It rained in the desert later this fall day. Fall is in the air.