One Good Thing

Early Morning, Tenmile Range

2012-03-06T13:58:00.000-08:00

the mountains wake

craggy peaks catch first light

reflecting from rising sun

molten gold leaks down slopes

glows along serrated ridges

inky dark recedes

a chilly day is born

Never Ending

2012-03-02T14:07:00.001-08:00

Occasionally, I meet someone in the wilderness behind my house. A question I'm often asked is, "Where does this trail lead?" Usually, I give a straightforward answer based on where they want to go and how much time they have to spend. But, the truth is I believe that the trail goes on forever. One path leads into another until a lifetime could be spent exploring the vast forests, high peaks, and lush meadows. That's how I like to think of it, as an unending possibility waiting to be admired and investigated and as a wild adventure poised to happen.

rabbit tracks in snow

in the midst of your busy day

remember the deep silence

of winter's wild places

and feel renewed

Granddaughters Reading

2012-02-23T18:22:00.000-08:00

watch carefully

capture small moments

to hold in memory

Ghost Traveler

2012-02-21T11:00:00.004-08:00

The trails behind my house lead into wilderness. Usually, as I trek well-known routes, I'm alone with my thoughts, only encountering animal tracks or small critters as I move through the forest. Recently, I saw someone in the distance as I steadily climbed upward. He was bent over a full pack, rearranging his gear. He didn't hear me approaching. I called out to him when I was quite close so he wouldn't be startled. As he turned to face me, I took in his appearance - old-fashioned wool pants sharply creased, stylish cable knit sweater tucked under red suspenders, and heavy newsboy cap with ear flaps pulled snugly over tousled blond hair. Ancient wooden touring skis, polished to a luster, were stuck into the deeper snow just off the trail. With his boyish good looks, he could have stepped right out of a photo shoot for a fashion mag or perhaps an ad for LLBean. It flashed into my mind that I'd crossed a time warp and was back in the late 1800's. But the spell was broken when he smiled broadly and asked if I knew the trail. Could I tell him where he was headed? I thought perhaps he was going for an overnight at Francies Cabin, a back country hut that's accessed from the trail we were traveling. But, no - he was just heading into the wilderness. Would he pitch a tent or build a snow cave to spend the night? I didn't ask, but as I waved goodbye my mind was already making up stories about who he was, where he'd acquired his dated gear, why he was alone on the trail, and what his fate would be. A meeting of a few minutes can entertain me for days.

ghost traveler

will I see you again

shouldering your pack

gliding effortlessly into wilderness

perhaps returning to that long ago time

from whence you came

I wish you safe journey

Spreading the Love Challenge

Deli Lady - Spreading the Love Challenge

2012-02-19T12:37:00.000-08:00

It's bad timing to go to the grocery store over a holiday weekend in our ski resort town, but I'm expecting guests tomorrow so I had to brave the crowds. Recently, the deli counter began a new practice of slicing all lunch meats to order. The to-order slicing takes an incredible amount of time, and the woman who usually provides the service is always in a bad mood. She reminds me of the Soup Nazi on Seinfeld: never smiling, avoiding eye contact, barely acknowledging the customer's presence. People waiting often raise their eyebrows at each other. In a way, her bad mood amuses the rest of us. Lately, I've been smiling broadly at her, thanking her profusely, and sending her positive vibes. Today, I mentally concentrated on sending her hopes for finding One Good Thing. I figure her problems must be much worse than waiting for sandwich meat!

I can't avoid her scowl

I can choose my reaction

maybe with enough kindness

handing out my please and thank you's

suddenly one day she'll surprise me

by looking into my eyes

acknowledging me

and

smiling

Spreading the Love Challenge

Searching

2012-02-18T15:06:00.000-08:00

a prickly little tree

a shadow show

tiny perfection

in the big woods

there is always one good thing - it's my job to find it

Pillars of Strength - A Special Tribute for K

2012-02-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

I try to be more Present in my life.

I talk about living in the Now.

Each day I search anew to find ONE GOOD THING.

Today, I'm celebrating a very special Chocolate Lab named K who lives with my Blog friend, KB (Romping and Rolling in the Rockies). K is a sensitive, loyal canine companion who is currently battling osteosarcoma. Daily, when I read KB's Blog and see her luminous photos of the Colorado paradise she calls home, I smile at K's beautiful fur lit by the morning sun, her soulful amber eyes looking out at me from the pictures. I laugh at her "batty" ears flying upward when she runs. K doesn't fret about past mistakes. She doesn't worry about the problems tomorrow might bring. In fact, K is a perfect role model for living in the present - for enjoying Life now. Bonded in spirit to her humans, K shows us what it means to be selfless. Well loved, she poses on boulders that look out over high peaks and knows she's queen of her domain.

I'm joining with other bloggers to celebrate the life of a very special dog. K is my One Good Thing today. For her family, she's the one good thing every day. With her big heart and her zest for life, she teaches all of us how to live to the fullest.

On this day and on many other days, may K romp with her rascally "brother" R and her beloved humans in the outdoor wilderness they all love.

Sending along hugs to KB who must make the decisions and handle the stress of K's illness.

Small Wonder

2012-02-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

Alone on the trail at dawn,

I pause to look closely at an aspen leaf glowing on a bed of crystal.

Did it hang on somehow since fall so it could show its final radiance in just the right setting?

There are always small wonders if I take the time to notice.

Nightfall - Skywatch

2012-02-03T14:43:00.000-08:00

As dusk wraps the landscape in blues and ties it with a flourish of pink, we walk down the ski trail into town. We're meeting friends for dinner. A ski lift climbs toward the pale glow in the western sky. We quickly cross the divide between day and night. Luckily, we've brought our own source of light.

Skywatch

Memory

2012-01-31T21:27:00.000-08:00

Don't get lost in the labyrinth of memory. It's possible to get stuck there forever.

Hanging sculpture in San Francisco, photo enhanced in Picasa

My last observation for

A River of Stones

(Thank you Kaspa and Fiona.)

Dancing in Darkness

2012-01-29T13:16:00.000-08:00

Night photo of my back yard processed in PIcasa

Half asleep, I felt my way from the bedroom to the back door, the howling wind keeping me company. As gusts hit the trees, sheets of snow flew sideways, the whole forest a turmoil of bending and shaking. Mesmerized, I watched a waking dreamscape of nightmarish dancing.

A River of Stones

Questions

2012-01-28T16:35:00.000-08:00

if someone pushes

do you push back

what does it mean to

"turn the other cheek"

if you are wronged

must grievance last forever

can simple kindness

always (ever?) be enough

I have the questions

but not the answers

(interpretations may vary)

A River of Stones

Chief

2012-01-27T17:09:00.000-08:00

old Chief watching for 22 years

carved from a block of wood

solemn with squinting eyes

sentinel behind the Umbrella Plant

looking out for me

a silent presence

A River of Stones

Alpenglow

2012-01-26T13:08:00.000-08:00

light leaks from the day

warmth of sun on the high peak

mountain alpenglow

A River of Stones

Spooky Woods

2012-01-25T15:39:00.000-08:00

On the trail behind our house is an area of tight-growing Lodgepole Pines with leaning deadwood that we've named "Spooky Woods." When the wind blows, the trees rub together, creaking and moaning, sending a distress call into the cold shadows of a winter afternoon. After a snowstorm, the trunks are spackled white. Limbs beckon us to enter a wooded maze. In dim light, my imagination creates an entrance to another dimension. The trees whisper their warnings as we forge ahead, the woods closing around us.

During the month of January, writers from around the World are participating in
A River of Stones

Attitude

2012-01-24T19:14:00.000-08:00

Cape Kiwanda, OR, spring 2011

I've been thinking about perspective:

how sometimes a small change in how I view something makes all the difference.

If I can just be a bit more flexible, make some minor alterations,

I might see things in a novel and fresh way.

Perhaps pausing and making a small adjustment would make a big difference.

Possibly I can view a situation in more than one fixed way.

It's worth a try.

A River of Stones

Waking

2012-01-23T14:06:00.000-08:00

Dawn, Cape Kiwanda, OR, spring 2011

floating on sleep's still waters, slowly sensing the surf of wakefulness

gathering to cast me into
a new day

A River of Stones

Pillow Land

2012-01-22T17:03:00.000-08:00

Waking in the night, light coming in the transom glowed pink - a good indication that snow was falling. Waiting for sleep, I listened to wind rattle the metal wreath at the front door and shush as it passed through tree branches. In the morning, wind still sifted and twirled through the foot of new snow. The forest was transformed: snow blasted tree trunks and evergreen boughs were flocked white. Hushed as the surroundings, our touring skis made a soft pillowy sound as they fluffed and glided through winter's dreamscape.

A spot of bright color leads the way.

Observing and writing during January for

A River of Stones

Sunset Song

2012-01-21T12:46:00.000-08:00

violet sunset

veil of silence on the peaks

mountain's lullaby

Just after sunset, Peaks 8 & 9, Breckenridge Ski Area

During January, I'm participating in

A River of Stones

Mama Bear

2012-01-20T13:13:00.000-08:00

mama bear watches

skepticism in her gaze

I avert my eyes

Mama Bear was painted by my daughter-in-law, Michelle, and given to me as a gift. There's something about the Bear's eyes - no matter where I am, they're focused on me. Sometimes, I try communicating with her telepathically. I ask, "What 's on your mind?" Inscrutable, she remains quiet - watchful. She has that tiny half smile. Do I amuse her? Does she like me? Her demeanor is colorful but unvarying and unyielding. So many questions, and Mama Bear doesn't feel the need to answer. She just fixes me with that all-knowing stare. Self possessed....enigmatic. She knows some secrets, and she's not telling.

A River of Stones

Hair Style

2012-01-19T11:02:00.000-08:00

my gal clips, snips, shears

adding product she names it

dandelion gone wild

I'm participating in

A River of Stones

I enjoy visiting all who comment, but if your profile is not enabled (when I click on your name in the comments), I can't get to your Blog. Please check that your profile is enabled and linked to your blog if you want visitors.

Winter Wind

2012-01-18T12:10:00.000-08:00

gusts swirling old snow

dark clouds in metalic sky

frigid breath taunting

Ski runs of Keystone Mountain in distance, taken from Peak 10, Breckenridge Ski Area

Each night hoping for snow, I wake to a paltry dusting swirling on gusts, blowing from peaks, whiting out the forest. Today, it seems prudent to sit by the fire, read, and watch the wind play with the snow. I'm still putting moisturizer on the frostbite I got yesterday, my skin looking coarse and chapped on my cheeks. The dry, cold winds of winter at altitude are not a gal's best friend. Only a blizzard would compensate for the harsh treatment of winter's icy breath.

Ever hopeful,

I'm musing and observing while participating in

A River of Stones

This or That

2012-01-17T11:14:00.000-08:00

minus temperatures blowing snow frozen faces skis won't slide

reevaluate the idea of "fun"

cozy house crackling fire strong coffee fresh-baked gingerbread

decisions decisions

Went skiing early and nearly froze. It was so cold that the skis "stuck" even going downhill. Lots of poling and possibly some minor ~~swearing~~ complaining. When the wind picked up, snow blew from the trees creating whiteout conditions. Any skin not covered froze immediately. After two hours of ~~torture~~ fun, we skied back home. Waldo smiled a greeting - he loves the cold. More snow due tonight - hopefully no windchill.

I'm trying to observe closely in January for

A River of Stones

New Snow

2012-01-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

a dingy-laundry sky of fast-falling flakes bleaching the earth white

I'm doing a snow dance today in Breckenridge, CO
for
A River of Stones

Confidence

2012-01-15T15:13:00.000-08:00

My Granddaughter and I had a discussion a couple years ago about fear: how we must pay attention to the feeling because it may warn us of real danger. But, also, how we must examine it, face it, make sure fear doesn't hold us back from accomplishment, from joy, from growth. She was about six at the time, a twig of a child, preparing for her first Taekwondo Tournament where she was matched to spar with boys. A sweet, caring child, she's never liked loud noise, undue commotion, or hurtful violence. But, she's self-motivated and disciplined. I'm sure she's still afraid sometimes, as we all are (as I am occasionally when I watch her tackle a new challenge). Not physically strong, she develops other strengths, mental and emotional, that serve her well. She teaches me valuable Life lessons.

lessons from a child

face daily uncertainties

find the solution

Amanda Grooming Flower

I'm observing carefully through the month of January:

A River of Stones

Connection

2012-01-14T14:56:00.000-08:00

spent a half hour on FaceTime

with my World traveler friend, Mary

she and her husband just arrived in NZ

a major piece of luggage "missing"

but smiling and upbeat as usual

gave me a tour of their rental apartment

views of green hills and peaked mountains

so distant from my winter white

we'll "see" each other on the computer

for the next three months she's gone

Mary last year in South America

A River of Stones

Mirror Mirror on the Wall

2012-01-13T14:55:00.000-08:00

looked in the mirror this morning

(usually I focus a little to the side and up)

today I took inventory

what the heck happened

between 37 and 67

lines and dots mapping what

once upon a time was

uncharted territory

not to mention dandelion hair

sticking up in all directions

as though electricity

entered at my feet

zapping upward

don't comfort me with

all the nice platitudes about

wisdom - experience - beatitude

it is what it is and

I'm seeing devastation

I won't even write about the body

no use frightening

my readers

Trip to Denver Zoo with Grandchildren 1/03/12

Observing (perhaps too) closely for:

A River of Stones

Rude Awakening

2012-01-12T07:51:00.000-08:00

Before dawn, the plow scrapes into my sleep,
shoving both the snow and my dream to the side.

I'm participating in

A River of Stones

Full Moon

2012-01-10T14:54:00.000-08:00

In the indigo essence of Wolf Moon, our touring skis creaked and buzzed in temperatures that turned snow flakes to ice crystals. Through the towering trees, the moon's pale glow banded the trail with ghostly light. Stars pricked the quilt of heaven. What was beyond our night vision lay in unknowable darkness. My heart beat in time to the night's song. I listened for coyotes' howls, maybe gathering for the hunt, but their tracks were our only (known) company. Perhaps they stood in the shadows, hackles rising, watching the strange creatures gliding in moonbeams through their territory.

I'm observing carefully for January's

A River of Stones

Early Morning Ski

2012-01-09T15:20:00.000-08:00

in dawn's frigid glow

each exhale an icy mist

we ski through the woods

I'm participating in
A River of Stones

Continuing the Journey

2012-01-08T12:24:00.000-08:00

Two years ago, I abruptly realized I'm not immortal. I tore a major artery and my heart squeezed from constricted blood flow. One minute in robust health, the next diminished by pain and fear. Control is an illusion. In every moment there is uncertainty to be acknowledged and accepted. Move on, move forward, move over, or remain stuck. There are choices and outcomes. The worst really can happen and possible you'll conclude that you can withstand it, maybe even learn from it. Or not. The path for all is different, twisting and changing direction, but always leading to the same place. No matter what our beginnings, we'll reach our last breath and wish there was time for one more. For me, in this moment, for this breath, the journey continues.

I posted about my heart attack at my main Blog Live and Learn.

covered bridge, Vail, CO

I gratefully participate today in

River of Stones

A Winter Treat

2012-01-07T14:40:00.000-08:00

softly sifting flakes icing the ground with glazed frosting

Finally! Some much-needed snow in Breckenridge, CO.

I'm pausing to observe carefully through the month of January for

A River of Stones

Kachina

2012-01-06T16:16:00.000-08:00

I pass Kachina when I run the bike path. She was donated to the Town of Breckenridge in 2004 by my friends, Susie & Rick. That was the same year that Susie was going through chemo and radiation for Ovarian Cancer. Today is Susie's 70th birthday. When I ran today, I sang Happy Birthday in front of Kachina and gave thanks for Susie's health. Kachina sparkled in the sun. Eagle looked alert and ready for flight on this special day.

I'm participating in

River of Stones

kachina ancient one spirit helper

let eagle soar
celebrate life

My Morning

2012-01-05T18:04:00.000-08:00

Dry grasses poke through velvety white and bushes wear a thin layer of frost. In running shoes, I navigate trails sticky with melting snow. I keep my head raised but my eyes flick from ground to trees to mountains, enjoying the short and the long view. My heart rate rises, sweat wicking and freezing on the back of my fleece. Today winter seems like spring - not enough snow for January. At home, I take off my heart monitor and brew a cup of tea. Looking out the kitchen window, I see a moose, gigantic body in full trot, careening through my yard. She stops to look over her shoulder before disappearing like a hallucination into the forest. I blow on my peppermint tea and decide whether to have a peach scone or an almond biscotti. I'm feeling quite alive.

I'm participating in January's A River of Stones.

Old Woman

2012-01-04T15:16:00.000-08:00

old woman

bag of bones in pale coat

smokey hair a frizzy halo

shuffled to slatted bench

lit a cigarette

murmured and chuckled

waving her fingers

amusing herself

with meaningless conversation

In the city yesterday with my grandchildren, a woman approached and sat near us as they ran and dove and shrieked, playing tag. Two different worlds in close proximity. I watched both with interest.

I'm participating in

A River of Stones

Remembering - A River of Stones

2012-01-02T14:28:00.000-08:00

memory is

a blank canvas

painted with emotion

I'm participating in small, daily observations throughout January:

A River of Stones

Winter White - A River of Stones

2012-01-01T14:55:00.000-08:00

necklaces of tracks

on the milky throat of snow

seed pods as witness

Small observation for

A River of Stones

Enjoy the Season

2011-12-03T12:28:00.000-08:00

Spend the month of December searching for

One Good Thing.

If possible, try to DO

One Good Thing.

It would be very fine indeed to actually BE

One Good Thing!

Wishing you all the best the season has to offer:

understanding and forgiveness

love and friendship

smiles and hugs

I'll take a break from blogging.

Happy Holidays to all!

Through a Child's Eyes

2011-11-28T14:59:00.000-08:00

pause

focus

appreciate

absorb the lessons

taught by children

Truth

2011-11-17T11:46:00.000-08:00

I desaturated the photo and blurred from the focal point

in the vortex of your dream

a kernel of truth appears

remember it, if you can

Looking for One Good Thing

2011-11-10T19:13:00.000-08:00

if you look for small things that make you happy

sometimes, you'll be rewarded

with something really BIG

Squirrel and Moose in my back yard, Breckenridge, CO, 11/10/11

A Secret Garden

2011-11-07T14:48:00.000-08:00

imagination is a secret garden

entering the mind's portal

vivid surprises await

Outside/Inside

2011-10-31T19:13:00.000-07:00

outside:

snow and cold

inside:

blooming cacti

red and pink and white

basking in sunshine

pretending it's summer

The sweet, smiling baby in the picture is my Granddaughter, Amanda, at 6 months. She's wearing a feed-sack dress that my Mother wore as an infant. The material for the dress came from a feed bag, maybe one that originally held grain for the farm animals. My Grandparents were poor tenant farmers who had no money for store-bought clothing. My Grandmother hand-sewed a tiny bit of lace to the collar and sleeves to make the dress prettier. My mother was born a triplet (she and two brothers) which was very rare in the early 1900's. They were born in the old farmhouse. Only one baby was expected - there were already two toddlers in the family. My mother was the last born and the tiniest, weighing 2.5 pounds at birth. She was swaddled and placed in the oven of the slightly warmed wood stove, which they used as an incubator to keep her warm.

Amanda and her twin brother will be 9 in February. My Mother and Grandmother died long before any of my Grandchildren were born. So, I tell the old stories, recounting a way of life so different both from my own and from that of my Grandchildren.

I started this post writing about the delicate blooms on my cacti, but, somehow, I got distracted by that photo and the feed-sack dress. I have only a few mementoes from my Mother and Grandmother. However, I do have the stories and my memories. Here's what I hope: maybe someday Amanda's own daughter will wear the antique dress, and Amanda will pass along the stories of the capable women, her ancestors, who survived the odds and made a better life for themselves and for their families.

Tenacity

2011-10-23T17:17:00.000-07:00

a faded beauty

bent but not broken

with stubborn tenacity

braves the elements

The last Poppy in my garden still gives me pleasure.

Long White Wait

2011-10-14T17:04:00.000-07:00

brief fall colors

'til snow and cold take their toll

leaves drop

ice forms

a long white wait begins

Foxy

2011-10-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

We had a young visitor recently. First she stood at the top of my rock garden to look in the dining room window. I thought she'd spook when I went onto the deck, but she approached, watching me carefully, keeping her eyes slightly averted. I think she's newly on her own, possibly born just this spring. She showed no fear and seemed to think maybe I had a handout for her. That tells me someone in the neighborhood must be feeding her. Maybe her mother was also fed and taught the kits that people are a good source of food. I hope she also knows how to hunt for her dinner. It's illegal to feed wild animals - yes, they're cute, but they're WILD. That is part of their beauty and charm. People should respect their wildness, not try to tame them. I've known several instances when people feed and then go on a trip or even move away. The foxes who depend on them suddenly need to fend for themselves. It's sad if they haven't learned how. We usually clap to discourage the foxes from coming too close to the house. I don't want a grandchild having a snack outside being approached by a hungry fox accustomed to being hand-fed.

I desaturated this photo before painting some color back onto the fox's body.

She was a beauty, and I was reluctant to frighten her. Tiny and perfect, she waited patiently for me to produce something yummy. I finally said goodbye and came back inside. She ambled away, still on the lookout for dinner.

Interlude

2011-10-02T21:13:00.000-07:00

A lone daisy bends toward the stream, admiring its reflection.

Light transforms ordinary scenes.

We pause and take notice.

An Instant in Time

2011-09-26T22:14:00.000-07:00

A friend gave me this garden flag with colorful blooms and a pale purple butterfly. But, do you see the hummingbird that also seems to be a part of the flag's image? He's actually fluttering to drink nectar from the purple sage in my garden. That was last week - by now he may be thousands of miles from the mountains of Colorado, winging his way to a warmer climate. The scene continually changes. A photo is just an instant frozen in time.

Take Heart

2011-09-22T16:27:00.000-07:00

no matter your age

allow the song in your heart

to beat its own rhythm

Visitor

2011-09-15T14:40:00.000-07:00

Overnight rain, like castanets beating a rhythm, lulls me to sleep. By morning, when the mist lifts briefly, the high peaks are frosted white. The aspens, still green a few days ago, rapidly turn golden. Cold paints the understory of the forest in shades of russet, sienna and umber. At midday, three young bucks stroll into the garden to munch on the delphiniums. Each fall, when hunting season approaches, deer seem to know to come closer to the house. Do their mothers somehow transmit this knowledge before they head out on their own? I walk onto the back deck with my camera. Two of my visitors amble away, but the third stands his ground. I intend to snap a photo and then clap my hands to shoo him from the remaining blooms. But, his soft gaze and slowly twitching ears mesmerize. For a moment - two - we both stand in wonder. Finally, with a flick of his tail, he moves slowly away. I've enjoyed my gardens through the too-short summer. Now, I'll share the flowers with the forest creatures during the brief fall. The encroaching snow reminds us all of lengthy winter's steady approach.

Survivors

2011-09-12T22:51:00.000-07:00

Aster and Paintbrush surviving the arid climate at CO National Monument, Sept. 12, 2011

dry grasses and dusty sagebrush lend a calming contrast to the dazzling remains of summer

Magic Mushrooms

2011-09-05T21:32:00.000-07:00

Amanita Muscaria is the only hallucinogenic mushroom found in CO. During our wet August, they grew in profusion in the forests at high altitude. They're nicknamed "Fly Agaric" because they were once used as fly poison. Colorful and whimsical-looking, they're actually dangerous if ingested and can cause fatality. A friend's dog nearly died after eating them. Their beauty attracts, but, in this case, red sends a warning.

fairy dust gnome abode

hallucinogenic magic mushroom

intoxicating beauty fatal attraction

I can't identify this mushroom, but I hope it's harmless.

It reminds me of a Yogi twisted into an intricate pose.

It sat all alone on the forest floor.

I didn't see any others like it.

Can you see its look of surprise - its mouth shaped like an O?

It's my favorite mushroom this season.

A Pond Near My Home

2011-08-31T17:12:00.000-07:00

I like taking water shots without a filter - just the light and my own perspective. It's similar to how I view Life.

light plays with shadow and reflection

a changing canvas of

intuition and substance

reality through the

filter of judgement

The Sky's the Limit

2011-08-20T12:15:00.000-07:00

I'm transfixed by a pink vision on the rock

long hair billowing she synchronizes

balancing, stretching, and pulling

quickly scaling the height

My 8 year old Granddaughter climbing in Breckenridge

finally releasing (the scariest part for me)

she flutters downward

gracefully rappelling back to Earth

no big deal

just

skill and trust

and

believing in yourself

Perspective

2011-08-18T20:04:00.000-07:00

I remind myself:

Worry is never productive.

It doesn't solve any problems.

Fear grows out of proportion.

Worry makes a problem bigger than it actually is.

Confidence

2011-08-13T12:37:00.000-07:00

not knowing the route

or worrying about dangers

just forging ahead

My 5 Year Old Granddaughter Leading a Hike

Talking to the Flowers

2011-08-03T17:12:00.000-07:00

yes, it's true

I talk to flowers

Mother did too

now Grandchildren wonder

what do you tell them

I say they're lovely and graceful

I ask them to stay safe and healthy

I tell them I love them

you tell us that too

yes it's true

I do

Lazy Day - A River of Stones

2011-07-31T13:33:00.000-07:00

I sit outside reading, sun in and out of clouds. A fox trots across the bridge, stops in the garden, raises a leg, and moves on without a backward glance. Later, sensing movement, I look up to see a young buck walking slowly through the forest. Suddenly startled, he picks up his pace, white tail waving like a truce as he trots away. A Robin hops and flutters along the stream finding the perfect spot for a drink. Dipping its head, water droplets fly off its beak to become prisms of light. Bees drone around the Salvia as the afternoon slips slowly away.

A River of Stones

Morning Observation - A River of Stones

2011-07-29T11:20:00.000-07:00

saw a woman with orange hair this morning

bright neon orange

dancing down the sidewalk

brown arms reaching for the sky

fingers snapping out a beat

face upturned grinning at the sun

just down the street another woman

frowning into sun's glare
blonde hair all business

arms locked across chest

foot tapping with impatience

waiting to cross

it's all relative

but

I'm still smiling at that orange hair

A River of Stones

Old Age - A River of Stones

2011-07-28T16:02:00.000-07:00

Remains of building from 1800's along Mineral Belt Trail, Leadville, CO

I wouldn't want to be young again. My weathered facade is well-earned. I lean a bit, swayback. My ancient bones are thinning. I'm more open, accessible. Strangers and varmints intrude on my space. The barriers and signs that once meant "keep out," are now flimsy and mostly disregarded. Privacy is a thing of the past. Oh, I've seen some sights in my day, overheard plenty of conversations. If you have the time, I can tell you some tales. I'm of a certain age, but I've endured. I have my self-respect. I'm still standing.

During the month of July, I'm participating with other writers from around the World in

A River of Stone

Blooming - A River of Stones

2011-07-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

the curled bud holds only promise

the unfurled blossom achieves immortality

I'm participating in July's
A River of Stones

Promise - A River of Stones

2011-07-26T10:15:00.000-07:00

After a night of heavy rain, a new day awakes refreshed.

Clouds hang low over the high peaks still dressed in snow.

A thick mist rises like smoke from the Blue River.

The morning is green with promise.

During the month of July, I'm participating in

A River of Stones

Mariposa Lily - A River of Stones

2011-07-22T18:20:00.000-07:00

as gaudy sunflowers swing and sway above her

shouting "Me! Me!"

shy Mariposa raises her face to receive the sun's kiss

A River of Stones

Remembrance - A River of Stones

2011-07-21T18:57:00.000-07:00

To be able to say "What a Life he lived!" is such a joy and a comfort. He loved and was well-loved in return. He died surrounded by his family, buoyed by the prayers of friends. Death with dignity was his final accomplishment.

when death came calling

he thought he was riding his bike

we smiled through our tears

A River of Stones

Lupines - A River of Stones

2011-07-20T12:55:00.000-07:00

my friend is dying

as the purple lupines bloom

watered by my tears

A River of Stones

Storm - A River of Stones

2011-07-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

pink bolts of lightning

drenching rain pelting the ground

fragile poppy stands firm

During the month of July, I'm participating in

A River of Stones

Mining Remains - A River of Stones

2011-07-18T12:22:00.000-07:00

crumbing, splintering, rusting

an abandoned mine whispers

a tale of toil and hardship

Stumptown Road Mine Ruins, Leadville, CO

I'm participating in

A River of Stones

Doe - A River of Stones

2011-07-17T08:36:00.000-07:00

early visitor, silky ears alert, admiring my garden

the chance meeting startles us both

A River of Stones

Goodbye - A River of Stones

2011-07-15T16:28:00.000-07:00

I said goodbye to my best friend in a pink dawn, feeling the usual tight throat as she drove away. Inside, I busied myself in the quiet kitchen. Standing at the sink, I saw movement where the trail opens to my back yard. Thinking maybe a deer or a moose was visiting, I came to attention. A cowboy - black hat, black boots, black jacket, and dark pack - strode into the clearing. I blinked but, yes, a cowboy! As he turned to walk the perimeter of my property, he looked up and our eyes met. His were the pale blue of a morning sky. I knew he saw me framed in the kitchen window, faded fleece PJ's drooping around my shoulders, white hair sticking up like dandelion fuzz. He immediately lowered his eyes back to the trail, moving quickly away through the pine duff. I shivered as he disappeared. My friend and the cowboy both left me as daybreak seeped slowly over the mountains.

Writers from around the World are participating in

A River of Stones.

Nature's Palette - A River of Stones

2011-07-11T13:44:00.000-07:00

riot of color

ripe with possiblity

juicy with summer

A River of Stones

Loose as a Moose - A River of Stones

2011-07-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

two bull moose sauntered

loose and lanky past the swing

in search of fireweed

I am participating in July's A River of Stones.

Beaver Pond - A River of Stones

2011-07-09T15:35:00.000-07:00

In the middle of summer, there are still scraps of snow along the trail. The morning air is chilly at high altitude. I walk a path I know well past linked ponds formed by beaver lodges. Sometimes in the early morning or at dusk, if I'm silent when approaching, I observe dark shadows moving silently over the surface of the frigid water. Sensing any danger causes a sharp warning slap of the tail. Diving and disappearing, only ripples remain as proof of the beavers' presence.

chilly mountain pond

willow bushes dressed in fur

shiver in the shade

huddled in my coat

I watch for shadow swimmers

in morning stillness

I am participating in A River of Stones

Whitewater - A River of Stones

2011-07-08T14:42:00.000-07:00

stream swollen with snowmelt

wildflowers clinging to banks

swaying in the spray

I take my husband's hand and
jump!

A River of Stones

Angelica - A River of Stones

2011-07-07T09:41:00.000-07:00

Head lowered, halo askew, wings lopsided, paint chipped, Angelica, my Garden Angel, is getting old. The star on her breast, plucked from Heaven, is showing signs of rust. Her weathered-wood body has a forward lean. Yet she presides as always, an aging but ageless beauty among the flowers. Somehow, she becomes dearer to me every year.

During the month of July, I'm joining with other writers from around the World in

A River of Stones

Crab Feast - River of Stones

2011-07-06T16:06:00.000-07:00

bright orange stilt legs and scissors beak
White Ibis wading the surf
skews a scurrying crab
for a succulent snack.

A River of Stones

A Spot of Tea - A River of Stones

2011-07-05T10:48:00.000-07:00

Notice the pinky finger

extended delicately

as he raises the cup

obviously a gentleman

he carefully slurps
at Grammy's Tea Party

A River of Stones

My Reality - A River of Stones

2011-07-04T08:12:00.000-07:00

I've stopped watching TV:

murder, corruption, sensationalism, and "reality"

happen without my attention

But

I know the path to take through the woods

to a fallen log

in a sunny clearing

where the Fairy Slipper orchids

bloom in glorious profusion.

A River of Stones

Pinata

2011-07-03T10:12:00.000-07:00

Throughout the month of July, I'll post "small stones" as part of the River of Stones. Writers from around the world will cast their stones into the river.

I let everyone else try before taking the bat. I swing and connect, hitting it hard. Whack! It looks fragile, but it's not. I feel the percussion jolt through my body. And then, the candy starts falling. Kids scramble.

Exhilaration! Theirs and mine.

Party Time!

A River of Stones

Begin Again - A River of Stones

2011-07-02T19:24:00.000-07:00

silvery shimmer overtakes darkness

spangles on water

a new beginning

already feels

Hot

HOT

HOT

This post is a part of A River of Stones

Dawn - A River of Stones

2011-07-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

Throughout the month of July, I'll post "small stones" as part of the River of Stones. Writers from around the world will cast their stones into the river.

Dawn doesn't so much "break" as spread:

diffused light leaking into darkness

watercolor that bleeds

a gleaming tribute

to Glory

A River of Stones

Is Seeing Believing?

2011-06-15T19:20:00.000-07:00

Interpretations may vary...

(Statue of Gandhi outside Ferry Building looking toward Bay Bridge, San Francisco, CA)

Simple Pleasures

2011-06-07T18:24:00.000-07:00

Enjoy simple pleasures.

Let stress fade away.

The first rose and the last lilac met in a bouquet.

Their sweet perfume was a simple pleasure.

Did you experience a simple pleasure today?

I hope so.

Life's Illusions

2011-05-30T22:11:00.000-07:00

Life is often illusional.

Don't jump to conclusions.

I took this photo through the leaves of a Japanese Maple toward a Koi swimming in a pond. I love the shape of the branch and the reflections as well as the blurred leaves in the foreground. There is so much going on in the photo - I'm not sure you would even know what it's about at first glance. I feel it's a perfect metaphor for Life.

Nature's Magic

2011-05-28T20:02:00.000-07:00

Nature offers magic if only I pay attention.

Heart-Shaped Shell on Solitary Beach

Seaweed and Rainbow

All photos taken at Cape Kiwanda, OR

May 28, 2011

Cloudy or Clear - Skywatch

2011-05-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

occasional gloom

wind testing our fortitude

enhances appreciation

for ordinary but special moments

in Life

Photos taken May 26-27 of changing skies at Yachats, OR, on our trip up the Pacific Coast.

Skywatch

In Perspective

2011-05-23T20:16:00.000-07:00

When others speak with authority

seeming to know what's best for you:

Remain skeptical.

Decisions

2011-05-18T22:03:00.000-07:00

There are always choices to make.

Trust your instincts.

Sacramento

2011-05-16T12:57:00.000-07:00

Tower Bridge from American River Trail

When I visit urban areas, I look for Nature amid the high rises. Sacramento, CA, has a wonderful multi-purpose trail along the American River. Bob and I like biking and running the trail, watching for wildlife and enjoying greenery in the midst of the city. This morning, we went out early before the forecasted rain. The day was crisp and the river calm as we ran along the path. Later this afternoon, we hope to watch the bike racers in the Tour of CA finish at the Capitol. A dinner at an Italian restaurant we like should complete the day nicely! Tomorrow onward to Monterey.

Hoping for Warm Weather!

2011-05-13T16:24:00.000-07:00

Living in a ski town, you'd think we'd opt to vacation on a tropical island. Instead, we visit other ski towns!

Lake Tahoe, CA, and town from Heavenly Ski Area

We love the Sierras and pass through them nearly every spring on our way to the West Coast. This year, we decided to stop in S. Lake Tahoe for the start of the Amgen Tour of CA Bike Race. Though it's sunny and beautiful in Tahoe right now, with no snow in town, the forecast is for snow on Sunday. We have the bikes in the van and will ride whenever possible.

Yippee for sunshine - hoping the warm weather continues!

Gratitude and Love

2011-05-07T05:31:00.000-07:00

In Life's ordinary moments

there are many instances

when suddenly I'm consumed

by gratitude

and love

A White Stillness

2011-04-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

Sun shines on new snow in Breckenridge.

I've been asked when the snow will stop.

It can snow every month of the year at high altitude.

However, usually by June snow changes to rain.

We'll soon travel to the west coast.

We'll take a vacation from white.

Until then, I take my cue from Waldo.

He's still smiling.

Dreaming

2011-04-22T17:03:00.000-07:00

My son visited this morning to tell us a dream he had last night. It was powerful and moving. He and I both shed some tears. I was reminded of a dream I had long ago in the night preceding Good Friday. I didn't remember it upon awakening, but it entered my consciousness on the following Easter morning, replaying vividly in my mind. My mother was in the dream - the only time she has ever appeared to me since her death. I hold the message of the dream in my heart and all these years later still feel emotional when I remember. I'm sure Jim's dream will also stay in his heart and mind forever, offering him comfort and hope.

Wishing you dreams that bring joy and peace.

Undaunted

2011-04-16T14:33:00.000-07:00

I'm undaunted!

I recently attended a lecture by Lauren Springer Ogden, who gave a power point presentation about her newly revised book, The Undaunted Garden.

She spoke about planting for weather-resilient beauty. (She lives in CO but not at high altitude.) I look at the lush photos in my signed copy and think of my own gardens at over 10,000' above sea level. I make little notes to myself. I look at last year's garden photos. I plot strategy. Then, as a reality check, I look out my window...

I guess it's going to be awhile.

But I can still dream.

I'm undaunted!

Black Bear Alert

2011-04-09T15:47:00.000-07:00

A steady wind through tall evergreens makes a loud shushing noise. Though it's spring, we're still blanketed in white at high altitude. However, the Forest Service warns that black bears are awakening in Summit County, grouchy with hunger, foraging for food still scarce because of the snow. So, with the constant wind blocking other sounds, I'm hyper-vigilent navigating through wilderness.

Years ago, in the summertime, I was walking on the trail behind our house. Suddenly, I was aware of a hulking form walking beside me not 6' away. A black bear had approached me from behind and was strolling through the woods with me. When I stopped, the bear stopped. Each of its thousands of glossy black-tipped hairs seemed to register separately in my brain. Time stood still, and my focus narrowed: The bear turned to face me. Unblinking caramel eyes stared. A wet black nose quivered in my direction.

My heart hammered in my ears. Slowly, I began backing away, inch by inch, aware that I could trip and fall backward if I wasn't very careful. I consciously made myself unthreatening, keeping my gaze averted. Surely, my vulnerability was communicated to the bear, who outweighed me by at least 300 pounds.

Meanwhile, Bear stood quietly, sniffing the air, watching with interest, but showing no aggression. Finally, after a couple minutes which seemed an eternity, he turned away from me and continued on the same journey through the forest that was interrupted by our meeting. Barely breathing, I waited until he was out of sight before moving quickly and quietly in the opposite direction.

I was absolutely powerless in the bear's presence. He decided to let me live. Even now, remembering the experience, my adrenaline surges. For no discernible reason, I was spared. I'm thankful to that bear. I'm not particularly wanting another close encounter, though I'm aware that a chance meeting could occur at any time. Meanwhile, I'm alert to my surroundings.

In spring, the Earth awakes from winter slumber - and so does Bear.

Fickle Spring at High Altitude

2011-04-06T14:05:00.000-07:00

Barb at Beaver Creek, CO

I shivered in a windchill of minus 10 skiing at Breckenridge on Monday - we got 14" of new snow overnight. On Tuesday, I roasted in the sunshine at Beaver Creek Ski Area (about an hour from my home and lower in altitude) where it was 52 degrees. I was way too warm in my winter ski jacket. The snow at the bottom of the mountain was sticky, grabbing our skis and threatening to throw us into the slush. People were walking up the ski trails in sleeveless workout tops and biking up the plowed road past the lift. Today, we snowshoed behind our house on the many feet of snow that remain. The snow has a crust on top that looks like wrinkled elephant skin. Snow melts on sunny days but refreezes at night. Breckenridge's forecast is for more snow this week. Winter isn't ready to release its grip on the landscape.

Spring just means more snow at high altitude.

We continue to play in it.

Tooth Fairy

2011-04-03T15:06:00.000-07:00

Our Granddaughter's tooth was loose.

She was kinda desperate to get it out.

Finally, with Pop Pop's help...

Success!

Even though she was visiting us in the mountains over Spring Break, the Tooth Fairy managed to find her. (Amanda says the Tooth Fairy has a special GPS system for tracking teeth...)

This Lucky Gal got $2 under her pillow! Her Daddy told her that he only got 50 cents back when he lost his front teeth. But, I reminded him that due to the cost of living and inflation, the price for teeth had gone up.

P.S. Amanda actually pulled her own tooth. She and Pop Pop just wanted to kid around with the big pliers.

Peace and Happiness

2011-03-27T15:45:00.000-07:00

I saw an interesting sign today. It said "Be Peace."

It didn't say hope for, pray for, or wish for - it said "BE."

The sign also said, "Create Happiness."

I like the proactive idea of creating rather than expecting.

Perhaps if I can "be Peace" and "create Happiness," the World will change for the better.
I'm going to try.

"You must be the change you want to see in the world."
Mahatma Gandhi

Flaunt Your True Colors

2011-03-24T15:15:00.000-07:00

Remember when I brought the baby orchid home over a month ago? I've watched over it, carefully transporting it back and forth from Breckenridge to Denver several times. It became like that psychology experiment that kids sometimes do in school when they're asked to care for a 5 pound sack of sugar as though it were a baby. I've already raised babies so I can tell you - the orchid was not as much work. A little water and sunlight plus remembering to take it with me if we were going to be at one house or another was all that was required. In fact, even when my husband inadvertently threw his jacket on top of it, no damage was done.

The baby is blooming!

As with any baby, it's not necessarily what I'd envisioned from the buds. It's a flamboyant (perhaps even gaudy) pink. Sometimes, I think it looks unnatural, and I wish it were a quieter hue. It doesn't care what I think - it grew and became what it was meant to be.

Sometimes it sits it in the sunlight. Other times it rests on the mantel. I like how it looks next to my Karen Scharer painting.

For a little orchid, barely out of diapers, it has a commanding presence. Yes, even though it's not blooming quite like I thought it should, I'm in love with it. As soon as these first blooms fade, I'll give it a bigger pot - more room to grow.

Just like a child, I'll encourage it to flaunt its true colors.

You Just Never Know

2011-03-20T15:50:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wake on the edge of sadness. Dreams honeycomb my sleep. I lie quietly feeling my heart beating.

I count my Blessings.

What's Happening?

2011-03-12T15:50:00.000-08:00

fish swim in the sky

watery branches swaying

color flashing by