Prickly Little Suckers

There are a couple of prickly little balls on my patio. Every once in a while, when I lean in too close or lose my balance and get stuck, I curse the darn things and wonder why I keep them around!

Well now I know, cause sometimes things aren't always what they seem. At first glance you see something that does not appear to have much purpose, it is alive but harsh and unwelcoming to strangers...but if you wait...give patience, perseverance and love it will reveal to you the true softness and beauty that lies within. It may not last long, but Oh when it does...

twinkle twinkle little flower

I have no idea what this plant is called. Its some type of succulent I think. I've had it for about 3 years and it never did anything, not to mention its not all that much to look at. It just kind of ... flops. Then one night, our of the blue...this magnificent twinkl'er comes out at dusk. It only blooms at night. So cool! I felt like Mr. Wilson with his prized once in a blue moon night blooming plant... except I didn't get interrupted by a mischievous little boy and was able to (somewhat) capture its beauty.