Sleepy Mesquite Update - March 2025

Sleepy Mesquite as it looks on March 2025

As I sit here in my Subaru, parked at Wiley Well's Campground, I can’t help but reflect on this month’s journey to Sleepy Mesquite. March has always been a month of transition, marking the shift from winter's cold grip to spring's warm embrace. This month brought its own set of challenges and rewards, and I’m eager to share my experiences, thoughts, and the strides we’ve made.

Rain in the Forecast

The weather had been teasing me with the promise of rain, stirring excitement and hope for the parched soil at Sleepy Mesquite. Water has always been a critical component of successful permaculture, and every drop is a blessing. As I prepared for my trip, visions of lush greenery and thriving plants filled my mind, washing away the worries borne from previous droughts. With rain in the forecast, my spirits were high and I was determined to make the most of this visit.

Cloudy sky announcing rain on the permaculture site.

Boundary Post Installation Progress

One of the primary tasks during this visit was to continue the installation of boundary posts along the north and west property lines. This project has taken longer than anticipated, but the progress is steady, even if slower than my initial expectations. Establishing clear boundaries has been paramount in defining the limits of the permaculture site and protecting our work.

Setting posts manually requires a good bit of physical labor, and I’m realizing that my health can sometimes be a limitation. I used to be able to power through tasks with ease, but the body doesn’t bounce back as quickly as it used to. Despite these challenges, I find solace in the rhythm of the work and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment each time I set a post.

Newly installed boundary posts line the property.

Earthwork Reinforcement and Mulching Experiment

One of the most satisfying accomplishments from this month was reinforcing the first earthwork with rocks. This project aims to help with water retention and soil erosion control. I spent the better part of the afternoon hauling in rocks and carefully balancing them to shore up the earthwork's structure. Watching this process unfold reminds me of the importance of each decision in permaculture; every choice contributes to the greater good of the ecosystem.

In addition to working on the earthworks, I decided it was time to test a new approach to mulching. I gathered local materials - primarily dried grasses and leaf litter - to create a mulch for the first tree that I had planted. There’s always a sense of excitement in experimenting, especially when it’s something as fundamental to permaculture as mulch. I have read about the benefits of local materials for mulch, and applying it to the base of the tree felt like a step in the right direction.

Locally sourced mulch applied around the base of the first tree.

Observations and Challenges

Night fell as I gazed over at the site. Things looked familiar, but upon a closer inspection, the second tree planted, a palo verde, was noticeably missing leaves - the handiwork of hungry rabbits. This revelation was an unwelcome surprise, presenting a potential new problem. While the other trees remained untouched, it's clear that the wildlife in the area is becoming bolder. I’ll need to consider strategies for protecting vulnerable trees moving forward.

On a more positive note, the third tree, a mesquite, has thrived. It's sprouted new branches and boasts vibrant greenery. However, the other mesquite trees show no significant change yet. I’ll keep a close watch on them over time, as sometimes plants need that extra patience when adapting to their environment.

The Rain Starts Falling

As the day came to a close, I noticed the air was thick with moisture and wind began to pick up. The clouds rolled in from the southwest, promising the rain that I had hoped for all day. Just as I started preparing dinner, the first light raindrops began to fall. I relished that moment, feeling the earth welcome the gift of water.

However, I also had to seek shelter in my Subaru when the rain began to come down harder. For several minutes, I watched as the ground drank in the precious drops. Although no puddles formed, the moisture was evident, giving me hope for my plants. The evening closed with a stunning view: the moon glistened through the rain clouds, adding a layer of beauty to the unfolding storm.

A Rainy Morning Retreat

The next morning, an unmistakable smell—the aroma of damp earth—woke me early. The sky was mostly clear yet checked with fast-moving clouds, continuing the dance of Spring. I discovered that the wood I had collected was wet from the previous night’s rain, so I opted to use my camp stove for breakfast instead of wrestling with damp materials.

Post-breakfast, I noticed dark clouds approaching from the west, pulsing with an ominous hue. Given the unpredictable nature of desert storms and my commitments at work, I made the tough choice to leave the site earlier than planned. I could not afford to miss any days at the veterinary clinic, so efficiency became my focus.

Storm clouds looming over the permaculture site. And A faint rainbow shows itself on the edge of the approaching storm.

The Journey Home

As I drove away, the storm swiftly caught up with me. By the time I finished reinflating my tires at the rest area on Interstate 10, heavy rain poured down. I felt a mix of relief for leaving before the storm intensified and disappointment that I couldn't stay to observe how the rain interacted with my earthworks and planted trees. The journey back to Riverside was filled with a sense of longing, wishing to witness Nature’s revival firsthand.

Reflecting on this month, I have learned that every journey, whether physical or metaphorical, brings its own set of lessons and experiences. My connection to this land grows deeper with every visit, intertwining with my commitments to both the vet clinic and the world of permaculture.

Looking Ahead

As I prepare for my next visit to Sleepy Mesquite, I carry with me a renewed sense of purpose and direction. The challenges faced this month—mainly the health-related limitations and dealing with wildlife—remind me that I am just one player in this broader ecological play. It’s health and perseverance that will allow me to continue.

The rain was a gift I wish to explore further in my upcoming visits. Simply put, the interactions between water and the soil are vital to the systems I’m trying to create. Who knows what treasures would be revealed if I stayed a little longer on that rainy day? All I can do now is prepare to adapt, learn, and remind myself that patience in this journey is essential.

Final Thoughts

In summary, March 2025 at Sleepy Mesquite was a reflective month. It reminded me of the inherent unpredictability of life and the beauty that can come from embracing it. I’m working toward building a thriving orbital of life through permaculture principles, combining my love for Nature with a commitment to nurturing animals through my veterinary work. Every visit teaches me that growth isn’t just for plants; it’s also about personal development and resilience.

The future at Sleepy Mesquite is promising, and I look forward to sharing my next adventures and discoveries as they unfold. Until then, may your own journeys lead you toward growth, connection, and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of life.