Clan of the Mountaindreamers

Are you giving your spirit a good Journey?

2012-01-20T07:49:00.000-08:00

Recently some one asked this question." Are you giving your spirit a good Journey?" What does this involve?
Are you sowing peace and positive thoughts? Or do you invest your energy in fear ? Are you creative with your energy? Or do you waste your day with worry and fretting over things that are beyond our sphere of influence? Sometimes we get too busy with the 'must do' list and forget what our purpose is today. We need to stop in a peaceful space and ask ourselves " What is our mission? Is our spirit at peace? If we are just reacting to life how do we become proactive and exert a positive influence on others who share our space?
How is your spiritual journey today?

Good Monday start

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

winter is finally setting in , snow scheduled for the next few days

Silent Wednesday ........

2012-01-11T16:29:00.000-08:00

2012-01-11T09:09:00.000-08:00

Winter has settled in. Finally . A very mild November and December with mostly rain and temperatures above freezing . We have a bit of snow but nothing like last winter. These are the frequent visitors who cruise the yard hoping the flowers are out and blooming so they can have a snack.

Early morning sunrise looking at the "V" . This is looking towards Glacier Park which is hidden behind behind the fog this morning .

Colourful display of pink and peach as the sun rises over the Foothills. Sunrise is always a wonderful spectacle for a few moments lighting the sky with a broad pallet.

11 degrees this morning . Bright and clear with sun. The snow is less this year but with that comes more sunshine. Later on off to the forest service road and a hike with the dogs.

Every Action

2012-01-07T14:38:00.000-08:00

Take pleasure in every action no matter how small, how routine, how mundane. Savor the moment. Breathe...

Rarified skies

2011-12-27T08:02:00.000-08:00

sunset skies

Peaceful Holidays

2011-12-24T17:29:00.000-08:00

Peaceful holidays from the folks next door

Note to self ..... the continuing travels of little feet

2011-12-18T09:33:00.000-08:00

Note to self. Remember it really blows hard on the East side of Montana. Stopping on my latest road trip to the Helena area on McDonald Pass ( 6325 ft) , I stepped out of the vehicle and nearly lost my door. oops wind was blowing. Looking East the valley was peaceful and the slushy snow was piled high on the guard rail. Follow this link for more about the history of McDonald Pass Travellogs

But I digress. The morning started out freezing and Foothill Road was nice and icy with a special treat of fog ! 90 miles of driving on the Swan Highway lay ahead. The Swan is a wonderful road and has beautiful views of several lakes.

Frozen Echo Lake with some fog. I wouldn't think that a frozen lake can make fog but apparently it can. Early morning and sunset are the best times to enjoy the fog making.

Once out of the Swan I headed to Helena the back way. Of course some seasoned Coasters ( those who live on the East and West coasts) would probably feel I 90 is the back way as well. This was the real back way with miles of nothing but cows and ranches. Nary a tree to hide behind even if an emergency should come up.

But with all this emptiness is beautiful mountains, bald eagles, and lots of sky.The miles fly by mostly because the speed limit is 70 mph and everyone feels it is good to go for 90. Fortunately this stretch of road was dry.What if a cow is in the road? Or a deer?

More mountains and sky I am humming Glen Campbell's Wichata Lineman with sun and 46 degrees. A real treat for those from the Flathead. In the winter the Flathead is notorious for the snow and cloud cover. We secretly covet the sun of Eastern Montana but with that wonderful sun comes the wind. I don't covet the wind. A little is fine but the door ripping wind can stay on the Eastern Side.

So I would think that the rest of Montana has the same amount of snow however it just blows around more than the North West part.

Mission accomplished. I drove to Helena and then located a really nice arboretum a bit south in Jefferson City Tizer Gardens to pick up some nice young Fat Albert spruce trees. This was a tree rescue trip. The trees had already been rescued from a tree farm elsewhere. With the trees packed into the car ( 7 to be exact ) I headed west. Back over McDonald pass and up the solitary highway. I passed an area know as the Blackfoot Watershed wetland project. The sun was starting towards it's western destination.

the area was short on people but long on cows. What a wonderful place to have a ranch. These are some happy cows. Fresh air and beautiful scenery. I stopped for a bit and they were making all sorts of cow sounds in the distance. The sun was dancing , it was perfect.

One may feel like Montana is too brown. Especially for those of you from the East . But the Brown is what turns golden in a thousand shades as the sun nears setting . It is quite magical combined with the beautiful blues of the sky.

the sun is setting and I am hurtling towards the Flathead. As I head back down the Swan Highway darkness enfolds me and I am gifted by a truck going the same way. This guardian stays ahead of me the entire 90 miles adding light and a feeling of safety as I drive through the night. Plumes of fog drift across the roads from the lakes hiding the world for a few seconds before the cars burst out into the open.

Another little feet adventure ends . Time to put the boots up and rest for the night. 400 miles safely traveled and I am grateful for that . We will have to think of another adventure soon. In the interim I will decide where to put 7 more trees. It has been a good day.

Cloud Beings . . . .

2011-11-30T18:22:00.000-08:00

The cloud beings were wildly active this afternoon. We had a snow storm front pass somewhat north of here and now on the back of it the clouds are dancing wildly in the frisky wind. The warm artic parka feels good today.

Clouds over the saddle, as the sun travels to it's western home the clouds hasten towards the East.

Life slightly blurred. Soft pastels fill the sky as the sun sinks farther .

The last sigh of light brilliantly reflected off the clouds. The bare larches stand outlined on the horizon.

Thankfulness

2011-11-23T16:35:00.000-08:00

Sunrise on the saddle

Sunrise on the saddle above the house this morning .Recently I have been going to work early so I have missed the sunrise that occurs about 8 AM. I love the snow pack and the subtle pinks as the sun peeks over the mountains. I am on a mission this morning to go to the trash area. I could get trash pick up but that is an additional charge. So every now and then I make the trek to the green cans.

Sunrise over the Foothills

Driving down the road by the state hatchery. The sun is rising over the Foothills. A welcome site as we have
had days of cloudy weather. We had a cold stretch for two weeks then today it was 50 degrees. The snow melted , the ice disappeared. With the snow gone you can see the good earth. The wonderful loam is one of the things I am grateful for. I finished planting my last tree tonight. I am really thankful to be done with the year's planting projects.

After leaving the green cans I took a back road to work. As I drove through the wheat fields there were geese flying towards me. These geese were leisurely flying this morning looking for a place to put down.

In flight

They flew closer and their honking filled the morning air. The geese are so strong and so full of purpose. I
can't imagine their brains are very big however they get a lot of bang for the buck.

The geese carry on towards the sunrise. I am grateful for a slow drive to work this morning. Additionally I am grateful for my long term friends, close family ,and my healthy children as well as their children. A full life . A good morning with geese honking in the distance.

Silent Sunday

2011-11-20T12:52:00.000-08:00

Snowing for the last 24 hours

silent Saturday....

2011-11-19T07:19:00.000-08:00

Pet Turkeys

Heart Sister

2011-11-17T15:20:00.000-08:00

Katie with her family

If we are lucky on the rocky road of life we will be honored to find our Heart Sisters. These are special people who gift us with a bond, who accept us with all their heart unconditionally. They encourage you , and hold your hand when the bottom falls out. Literally they are there through thick and thin. I have been lucky to find several of my Heart sisters on this present journey. Today I say good bye to one . I will miss you Katie. Thank you for 24 years of friendship . You were a devoted mother and a steadfast friend. You have run the good race. The words of e e cummings say it all.

I carry your heart with me by e e cummings

i carry your heart with me (i carry it in
my heart) i am never without it (anywhere
i go you go, my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing, my darling)
i fear
no fate (for you are my fate, my sweet) i want
no world (for beautiful you are my world, my true)
and it's you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows
higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that's keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart (i carry it in my heart)

Twinkling lights

2011-11-15T16:59:00.000-08:00

Twinkle lights on the front porch, cheerful reminders that I am home.

wordless wednesday

2011-11-09T18:02:00.000-08:00

Full moon over the Foothills

Cellular Memory

2011-11-05T11:10:00.000-07:00

Familiar cows on the way home

Snow finally made it to the Valley floor last night. A reluctant rain shower that started late about 9 PM and turned to wet snow. Enough to decorate the evergreens but not enough to complicate the roads and driving. The low clouds obscured the Foothills.I set out for an early morning visit to the vet to fluff and puff the dogs for their yearly check up . Later while out in the yard finishing the "warm weather " chores I heard geese coming from the north.The sky was still thick with clouds so it was a while before the familiar V formation came into view. Several stragglers were calling out and catching up to the main flock. There is something in my cellular memory that gives me literally goose skin when I hear their call. There is so much purpose to their communications. So much purpose to their lives as they strive to become part of the formation flying south. Quiet day ahead with bringing in the herb garden . We expect 15 degrees so I don't think the herbs would do well from here on out. For now a pot of chai tea to warm the bones.

start of the winter wood stack

On the way home....

2011-10-31T18:41:00.000-07:00

Driving home the sun was setting just so with the golden yellow melting in between the dramatic rain/snow clouds. The fields were like honey with snow showers a few thousand feet above them. Around the bend my favorite stand of Aspen. Quiet sentinels in the brisk air promising more winter than fall.

The beauty of the area is almost unbelievable. Sometimes I feel like I am in a painting. Sometimes the lighting in just perfect . Of course reality knocks and you have to dodge a turkey or deer. So on the Hallow's Eve all is quiet. The animals are laying low. Just a turkey or two.

Closer to home the familiar mountains soaking the last few rays of the day. On the summit we already have some snow lying at 6000 to 7000 feet. As I stand taking this picture the rain is mixed with fat snow. Transient but a promise to keep as we move towards winter. The Western Larch have turned golden yellow this week and dot the higher elevations with their regal branches. Already I long for their baby green in spring.

Cozy Foothills

Pink Glove Dance Breast Cancer Awareness Montana Style!

2011-10-26T17:48:00.000-07:00

Ok this is a lot of fun with an important message . The crowd from work. Welcome to Flathead Valley Community College. ; ) Dedicated to Sarah , live long , live well! We love you!

Silent Sunday.... Home on the Range

2011-10-23T08:40:00.000-07:00

Buffalo on Blackfeet Lands

High plains of the Eastern Rocky Front

Saturday Harvest

2011-10-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

Pumpkins waiting for a good home at Sweet Pickin's

Saturday pumpkin run to the Sweet Pickin's pumpkin patch . On the hunt for some straw, pumpkins and kettlecorn. The snow is on the Foothills to the East and coming down the mountains. Some wonderful pumpkins and other squash family members in a riotous collection which would make any farmer proud. The folks were very friendly and lots of fun rides for the kids. Tractors pulling trains made out of 50 gallon drum barrels painted with bright colours. An afternoon of sun reviving the spirit. Beauty and abundance are all around us. With gratitude we move through the weekend.

Snow on the Foothills

Pumpkins ( orange and white) and winter squash

Nothing better than sun, screaming kids and a lot of pumpkins!

the deciduous trees are turning yellow but we are still waiting for the Tamaracks to turn

Abundance

Silent Thursday

2011-10-13T05:51:00.000-07:00

Sunrise from the Amtrak Empire Builder along the southern border of Glacier National Park

Sunrise over the Northern Rockies

2011-10-05T17:40:00.000-07:00

sunrise in the Rockies

clouds pouring through the V

A journey of the Heart

2011-09-18T18:29:00.000-07:00

Mission Falls near St. Ignatious MT

A journey of the heart today. I dropped one of my kids off in Missoula so he could continue his journey to visit some old friends. It is amazing the speed of time.It can catch you in the middle with fond recollections and regrets of lost time spent pursuing the necessary work a day schedule . Where on earth did that tow headed toddler go?

Well to soothe the soul on the drive back north in the Mission Valley I took a side road through Saint Ignatious. I had spotted the Mission Falls as I was driving on the highway north and wanted a closer look. The Mission Falls are in the Mission Mountains Tribal Wilderness Area. This is a 92000 acre protected wilderness that was formed in 1982 through the cooperation of the Salish-Kootenai Tribe. Elevations range from 4000 to 10000 feet through out the range. The falls are surrounded by Kakashe MT ( 8575 feet) , Lowary PK 9969 FT, and Mountaineer PK 9261 feet. The Mission Falls begin about 5000 ft and drop 1000 feet to the valley floor. I have included a topo map of the area ( as I love maps !) and you can see how steep the mountain sides are next to the falls. Carved from glaciers this cirque bowl is home to a beautiful waterfall and many high mountain pristine alpine lakes. Once more the beauty of nature takes the edge off the bittersweet of life. A treatment worth the time. Now to plan a return trip with camping in mind.

http://usa.indettaglio.it/eng/30/047/787498.html

Alive!!!

2011-09-18T08:52:00.000-07:00

Snow melt at 7000 feet

A lively stream born of winter snows reminds us how wonderful it is to be alive with it's dancing spray . How wonderful it is to be able to make choices . How remarkable a life can be when choosing truth, compassion , love and freedom.

Silent Thursday

2011-09-08T09:16:00.000-07:00

Happy Goat Family with Baby bringing up the rear!

One foot in front of the other

2011-09-07T19:21:00.000-07:00

One foot in front of the other is the best therapy. It creates a rhythm that drives out the demons. It clears the space and in that moment of honoring the four directions we become one again with those things that nourish us and protect us. Inviting the enlightened aspects of the universe to clothe us in it's armor.

Saint Mary's Lake and Wild Goose Island

Jackson Glacier in Eastern Glacier

Saint Mary's Lake blue enough to blind

Hidden Lake

Reflections

2011-09-01T14:27:00.000-07:00

Reflecting on the flooding of Echo Lake this year brings to mind all the things that have stopped. Fast boating is prohibited because of the wakes that erode the shores. The Causeway is flooded and you have to go the long way around to the highway. But in the still and the quiet , the lack of disturbing waves, the loons have returned to nest. Always when we lose something if we open our hands we also gain the universe.

Silent Saturday

2011-08-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

Watching the fire from a few miles south at the lake.

Fire season

2011-08-12T18:51:00.000-07:00

Smoke a half mile or so away.

Tireless Helicopter ferrying water from the Lake to the Fire

so white smoke is good?

Heading North with a Load of Water

Fire from the rental house where I used to live.

It is official . Fire season is late but here at last. We had lightning a few nights ago and now after smouldering we have a fire burning. The brave helicopter is ferrying water from the lake to the fire. Let us hope for success and rain with the storm next time .

connectedness

2011-08-11T19:35:00.000-07:00

I was thinking today about what defines life. Part of it is being connected to other things. Part of life is the experience from day to day that delineates who we are. If we quit experiencing things does that mean we are no longer connected to that life around us? From time to time I care for elderly folks. I often marvel how long the human body will continue with the mind absent. I often wonder what these people are connected to at this point. Certainly even now my own connection to life is so different from what it was 20 years ago. Life then was so consumed with caring for small ones. Helpless ones that needed the mother bear. Now that time has passed and I have time to consider the clouds, the sunset and the moon stealthily slipping up to the zenith of the sky. What is it that we do that keeps us connected to life and others? Is it something that we can consider automatic or must we struggle to preserve it? Must we hold tight fearing an unknown surrender ? Or do we open our fingers with an accepting intention and allow the flowers to fall quietly to the ground?

Of Clouds and Thistles

2011-08-01T20:10:00.000-07:00

After a hot day in the 90s , clouds build in the East over the Foothills. Promising a light show soon, the Foothills seem to beckon the lightning . The attraction is irresistible.

In the Evening light these wonderful white bells enjoy the last of the light focused on their magnificence.

One of my favorites the thistle seems to represent life. Beautiful but often thorny . I will harvest the blooms and save them to feed the birds this winter. yea yea I know they are a weed.


sunset in the West with a gentle breeze scented with lavender and petunias. Yes I said petunias. They are hanging and the deer can't reach them . Imagine the frustration.

bambi

2011-07-25T19:27:00.000-07:00

Mom and Bambi

One of the nice things about being in the country is the wild life. This little guy has tripled in size in the last couple of months. His mom keeps him close as he skitters about and leaps into the air for no apparent reason. It is nice to see them out at dawn and dusk . I know there are those who smack their lips when they see these graceful creatures. I have a hard time thinking of eating them. I think I will stick to beans for now .

Silent Saturday

2011-07-23T15:28:00.000-07:00

the moon a few days ago approaching full

The visitation

2011-07-19T11:18:00.000-07:00

Dramatic evening sky

The night before the visitation. So you think I am going to discuss aliens? Sorry more likely it is my daughter. She has taken off time to come for the weekend and we are going to have some adventures .

Lobelia

A quick walk around the yard , watering and weeding and hoping the deer ignore the pretty flowers. So my daughter has agreed to be the little gnome that you place in all your pictures. She is more fun as she can scurry on her own steam where as the real gnome would have to be carried. Below the gorge at Avalanche Creek.


sitting a little too close to the edge

We did a bit of hiking in the low country enjoying the water and shade. Hot day out but the sun was worth it. Then into the car and up the Going to the Sun Road. These triple arches always fascinate me . The stone work is meticulous and of course we always pray that the road stays where it was intended. Much of the road clings to the edge with a wish and prayer. The engineering that went into this venture is truly marvelous.

Triple arches


Looking West

As we climb towards 6000 feet the higher peaks are still covered in last winter's snow pack.
We started the day with plenty of sun but now the clouds are moving in with thunderstorms to the north.

One of the things that the gnome I mean er my daughter wanted to see were the mountain goats. Well we were in luck with goats pretty much everywhere. A big horn sheep crashed through the parking lot at the visitor center at Logan Pass . That was pretty fun to watch. Luckily no one collided with the sheep.

Up behind the visitor's center at Logan Pass the snow is still in abundance . Here the gnome is inappropriately dressed posing as a tourist.

More Mountain goats

The Goats are shedding and look a bit scruffy this time of year . But one of my favorites is the Pika below. A nice furry smaller animal that is almost always cute when you see them in the high mountain meadows.

A pika in the fore ground near the tree roots . He blends in well with his surroundings

8 PM and time to head down the mountain and find some dinner. My little Gnome is hungry. I am grateful for this time and the beautiful scenery. The feast that Nature dishes up for us is always awe inspiring .

After life beauty

2011-07-08T06:34:00.000-07:00

After life we have have beauty. A beauty of symmetry hidden during the prime of life as this tree reached for the heavens. We ,like trees, have intricate roots that ground us as we live life. What invisible principles ground you ? What hidden symmetry anchors you as you face obstacles in life? Where do your roots seek nourishment? Are they deep and seeking the hidden moisture of ancient rocks ? Or superficial ,going with the whim of the present. Hoping against all odds for an ever optimistic view of life .

Water World....

2011-07-05T18:36:00.000-07:00

Everywhere you look you see the work of water, from the lush under story of the forest to the serene lakes

McDonald Lake is full to the top but as serene as usual reflecting the blues of a perfect sky.

Traveling up the Going to the Sun Road is a nice pull off with a pounding waterfall. It is Amazing how much volume is traveling down this creek today , you don't want to fall in.

Crossing the creek the harlequins are no where to be seen. A few weeks ago a really sweet pair was cruising the banks.

Hug a tree! The western cedars are plentiful and gorgeous to behold . Below is the top of the tree.

A beautiful giant along the Trail of the cedars.

Avalanche Creek cuts through the bedrock forming a deep gorge. Just ahead the Avalanche Lake Trail beckons.

Inviting waters, but a sure and quick end if you were to slip in . click to enlarge as the bubbles are fabulous!

Lush green forest

Bear Grass thank goodness without the bear.

At the blow down a new view of the waterfalls dripping down the mountain face.

A lot of trees came down at some point. we had several nights last winter that rattled the windows down in the valley . I would think at this elevation the wind could be quite fierce.

Sweet yellow buttercups!

Little feet enjoying the refreshing cold waters !

Good by to the Park ! Another great day of sun and water.

Flooding .... gently

2011-07-03T20:45:00.000-07:00

More Little Feet adventures! Today it was wet Feet. The Echo Lake Causeway disappeared this week as more snow melted in the Foothill Mountains. Beautiful reflections as the lake eased its way higher.

The lake has an amazing way of capturing the clouds. No wind today so the surface was like glass.

Walking around the lake it was hard to ignore the squawking of a young Osprey. At least that is my guess as they had white underbellies.

One of the bridges over the Flathead River as it makes it's way to the Lake. Apparently the bow of the steamship Helena is sunk here. We will have to look in drier times

At one point there was a brisk steamboat business on the Lake . This is the remains of the propeller and other parts of the steamship as well as the wheel house below.

It is hard to resist one more shot of the beautiful Arnica during a short hike in Jewel basin. Little Feet covered a lot of territory this afternoon!

Last stop before arriving home to admire a field of brilliant orange flowers. Another Little Feet adventure comes to a close ! Happy Fourth of July to All !

Silent Sunday

2011-06-26T18:49:00.000-07:00

My new lawnmower...

2011-06-18T19:08:00.000-07:00

Fuzzy antlers

Jewel Basin

2011-06-13T18:41:00.000-07:00

A nice sunday to drive to Jewel Basin. Last summer they were repairing the road and it was closed to the general public. Now the road is good. Good being relative. A nice gravel road twisting up into the mountains.

The first part of the road has several farms and houses. A nice new fence graces the curve in the road. There is something about a well built fence.

Carry on up the narrow road squeezed by open areas in the forest after logging. A riot of wild flowers carpet the floor of the forest.

Now and then you dip and there is a marshy spot with water plants . The water is slow but clear as new snow melt.

Close by the road snow melt races towards the larger lakes and rivers.

The green fertile valleys would please any grazing deer or elk.

A great day for a drive ! Nice road and lots of solitude. If you don't count the deer, bird song , and the rippling brooks.

Snow melt

2011-06-12T20:37:00.000-07:00

Echo Lake fills to the brim

Surreal clouds in the mineral rich waters

The Marsh is full with snow melt , just a couple of months ago this was wavy golden grasses.

Wild strawberries and Yellow arnica

The motley crew, home again.

Local Ruffians

2011-06-09T18:50:00.000-07:00

I have been spyed

The lead deer is stomping his front foot . I suppose he is challenging me for my car that is parked nearby in the corner of the picture

Enough of the human peeking out the window, the car jackers are on the move. Maybe tomorrow. I will lock the doors so it is more of a challenge.

Potential

2011-06-07T19:23:00.000-07:00

Listing today

2011-06-05T10:08:00.000-07:00

faceted peridot sterling and fine silver, lapis lazuli

Lapis and fine silver OM charm sterling wires

Fine silver beads, sterling wires, lapis and American Sleeping Beauty turquoise

Labradorite and kyanite on sterling wires

Find the Goats

2011-06-01T19:29:00.000-07:00

This is the "Find the Goats " edition of wordless Wednesday . Altho it isn't exactly with out words. While milling about in the Avalanche Trail parking lot I noticed several adults staring at the escarpment ( makes you think of Tarzan eh?) above the parking area across the road. There is a family of mountain goats clinging to the cliffs . Can you spot them ? There are at least 5 and some are lying down. Good luck!

Harlequin

2011-05-30T21:09:00.000-07:00

I was standing on the bridge watching the water race by....

When I noticed a pair of harlequin ducks by the water's edge....
this is another version of find the duck in the picture, try
looking where the water meets the rocks

suddenly the pair was swept into the swift waters

Under the bridge and farther down stream , no struggle just going with the flow

finally they had a chance to float towards the shore to the quiet waters

Harlequin Ducks are fowl that prefer fast moving cold water. They nest close to shore in well concealed areas. So far they are good. However I worry about their nest if they have indeed prepared one as the High Country snow has yet to come down. Let us hope they know this and have built on higher ground.

In Celebration of the Rain

2011-05-28T15:04:00.000-07:00

Nature's chandelier

yellow peepers

Mysterious black fungus

sweet lavendar violets

spring green venturing out

A Lunar surface fungus in a supposedly arid climate

Word has it that this is an semi arid environment. Hard to prove that at the moment as it has rained for 2 days straight. So we will temporarily pretend we are in a North Western rain forest and enjoy the drizzle .

Dusky Visitors

2011-05-27T18:52:00.000-07:00

Helping with the yardwork

Twilight visitors

monday musings

2011-05-16T07:02:00.000-07:00

rainbow over the Foothills

Late evening rainbow after a rain shower at sunset. It is always a miracle to see such colours in the sky.

Rainbow Saturday

2011-05-08T05:53:00.000-07:00

Mountain Brook

A most satisfying Saturday. With great confidence we have taken off the snow tires. The snow melt continues to feed the Mountain Brook as it swells to it's spring time volume. We had rain showers with some small hail in the afternoon mixed with spots of sun . After the hail storm the mountains were treated to a nice rainbow. Elusive to catch on the camera but it does show faintly.

Rainbow after the Hail storm

After a day of working on the house and running errands there is nothing better than getting cozy with a pot of coffee and the dogs at my feet. Quite nice! Hope you had a wonderful saturday!

The best part of the day ! A spot of coffee to warm the body and soul.

Wheat Cradle

2011-05-04T19:12:00.000-07:00


The fields that cradle the Wheat

In the mid 1960's when I was a young sprout there were 3.3 billion people on our planet. Now almost half a century later we have doubled ourselves. Through technology we have produced abundance and fed the world. The American farmer in my opinion is the unsung hero of our century. The world has become used to the success of our farm land. When we think about the stewardship of the land and our Earth we have to become aware of the implications of a growing population . Hard questions have to be asked. How many people can we sustain on the Earth? Can Humans become peaceful and put their collective efforts into endeavors that enhance all persons quality of life? Are we able to plan for alternatives when Nature deals us floods and tornadoes that destroy cropland? It is my wish that every person on Earth wake up after a peaceful night of rest to find nourishing food on their table. There are so many who do not. Can the human race afford to spend our energy and resources on futile wars?

Feathered friends

2011-05-03T18:31:00.000-07:00


Some of my favorite Turkey friends

Amazingly the turkeys do not see any danger in being in the middle of the road. A wise colleague of mine stated" you don't want your food to be smart." So I will continue to watch for the fowl and maneuver around them . This was a particularly fetching group.

Spring break up in the seasonal creek

Perhaps in the lower US winter does not have such a grip . This year in Montana we have had whopper snow that started November 17th and actually continued until April 29th when we had 4 inches. Before you send care packages of extra snow shovels and cherry pie Lara bars, know that it has since melted. So the arrival of the seasonal waters in the seasonal creek is a good sign. Snow melt this year will probably bring some flooding as the snow pack is generous.

Measuring

2011-05-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

Good Earth

Life is not measured by time on this Earth . Life is measured by love given and love received. This is the essence and the measure that you carry in your soul. This is your treasure .

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-27T05:10:00.000-07:00

Silent Sunday....

2011-04-24T06:05:00.000-07:00

Yes my plumpuppets that is snow in the yard and stacked by the house

The little house in the big woods ......

Contemplating love

2011-04-22T20:02:00.000-07:00

Jason, John, Kathleen and Nathaniel

I think one of the most perfect experiences of love is having children. Perhaps you have reached the same space of total selfless love with a friend or spouse. There is something about being a parent that is total love .Our children come into the world helpless and dependent on us. We would do anything to keep them safe. Walk through the proverbial fire or take a bullet in their stead. In this season of celebrating God's ultimate gift and love for us we can be thankful for the chance to open our eyes and hearts completing the circle.

Thursday musings

2011-04-21T18:54:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it is hard to believe these vistas are real. The mountains are constantly changing in a dynamic dance with the clouds and sky. The sky evolves into new pictures minute by minute . Many would point out mostly hidden in clouds during the winter months. So I present to you a sunny day . The fields have started greening and under the green is some of the most beautiful soil I have ever seen. I have been ridiculed for loving the Earth beneath my feet. This is a special treat known as Creston Loam. There are only two other areas like this in the world according to my research. One in Russia and one I think in Illinois.

Bachelor Grade

2011-04-20T19:10:00.000-07:00

Going home the back way on Bachelor Grade. Evoking visions of a hilly road lined with single men. Far from true it is a nice isolated winding road which is choked with dust in the summer and mildly to moderately treacherous depending on the temperature in winter. If cold ( and what is really cold? ) for our purposes less than 20 degrees the road is quite good in the snow. If it is around 32 degrees you can kiss yourself good bye. If you want to experience serious sliding this is the place complete with drop offs into pretty pristine lakes. As you can see it is April 20th and I took this picture 2 days ago after we had yet another snow. The snow iced the mountains one more time for our viewing pleasure. We had snow in the valley as well but it had melted by the evening drive.Rumor has it there is about 28 feet of snow on the top of the foothills. Snow pack is 150% . We are grateful for the water.

The fields as you drive towards Bachelor Grade always have a few visitors. One night driving home after sunset in the snow in December there were 30 deer crossing the road here.

Majesty

2011-04-16T15:30:00.000-07:00

Silent Sunday

2011-04-10T10:05:00.000-07:00

The Snow Plow

2011-04-09T14:45:00.000-07:00

                       The flashing lights move with determination down the rural road

                                            in the predawn darkness

                   The mailboxes watch the progress contemplating the risk of hovering so
                                                     close to peril

                  Longing to stand straight as the challenge looms closer and closer.

Artfire Collection : Made in Montana

2011-04-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

Please click on the collection below to see some great items made in Montana " The Treasure" State. Thanks to Four Corners ( Curator ) for including our smoky quartz,turquoise, and sterling slider horse necklace!

Made in America, ...

Curated By: FourCornersUSA

ArtFire.com

Handmade Gifts

Another Little Feet Adventure..... taking advantage of the Sun

2011-03-22T18:53:00.000-07:00

Time to head out to Glacier Park . We are between snow storms and the roads are clear. Looking down from the bridge over the Middle Fork of the Flathead River towards the footpath that follows the river below. It is March 5th and a really nice sunny day!

Middle Fork in the western sun. Nothing prettier than sunlight playing on the water.

Driving up Apgar Road we have just about run out of room to stack the snow. 5 feet on either side as we cruise towards the Visitor center.

Below running up the Going to the Sun Road. Always a favorite in any season . The mountains almost look too pretty to be real.

More spectacular mountains peeking out between the trees. There is about 3 to 4 feet of snow along side the GTTSRoad.

MacDonald Lake is frozen as is the dock , standing on the end of the dock in the lake looking back to shore. ( hoping a frozen Loch Ness type creature doesn't jump out while I am taking the picture )

Looking out over the frozen lake by the dock. This is a lot of snow and we should have abundant snow melt later to feed the streams.

this is a nice map guide below that shows which mountains are where in the picture above. we have about 3 feet of snow here in front of the sign.

Below more frozen lake . Hard to get enough, such a wild and savage environment.

Walking back to the car, Apgar village and the visitor center ahead and lots of snow everywhere. I am silently hoping the car does not get stuck . Several people along the path were nice to offer to pull me out. Such kindness!

Enough fun for little feet today, they are bundled up in their snow boots from Eastern Europe and have been toasty all day despite the abundant snow. until next time....

A good day ......

2011-03-05T18:07:00.000-08:00

"Little Half Dome in Snowy Glory"

On the way to Bigfork

Amethyst Goodness !

2011-02-07T18:59:00.000-08:00

Amethyst Goodness! Dramatic dangle earrings in Ametrine and Amethyst with daggers of white topaz . 3 inches long. Guarenteed to show off your gorgeous neck! Email if interested . These can also be made shorter if preferred. Sterling chain and wire.

Sun is out ! Let's go Little Feet!

2011-02-05T12:40:00.000-08:00

The sun is out ! It may not be a well known fact but there is no sun in NW Montana in the winter. You have dark , dark with snow, and grey with snow. The folks in the Eastern part of the state love to point this out. Since the sun poked it's face out we must go out! Below are the mountains to the north in blinding white snow cover.

Saucy and I head East up the Forest service road. The snow is sparkling in the sun and I am hoping the bears are good and asleep in their dens as we make our way through the snow.

It is a pleasure to see the sun reflected off the melting snow through the trees. We are slightly above freezing so the droplets make nice prisms everywhere. If you enlarge the picture below there is a wonderful orb with rainbow colours! what a treat!

Saucy is loving the walk. I had to leave the other two dogs in the yard as it is just too much to walk 3 dogs in the snow . Too slick, too many other dogs out and about and the occassional wildlife makes it a monumental feat to hang on to three. So Saucy is the lucky dog. Gus and Lucy are in the fenced yard a quarter mile away howling like wolves.

Brave Saucy Dog

Of course the snow demands winter chic. We have the cozy purple hat that is fur lined. Excellent for those 3 degree days when you are shoveling snow. Below is Saucy enjoying a roll in the snow. It does look like she is quite dead and I am dragging her . You will have to take my word for her continued good health. I can't help but wonder why they like to roll in the snow so much? Maybe trying to get that persistent cat smell off of them?

Finally after hiking a bit on the forest road we walked north on the logging road and past the barn. The horses are wondering where the grass went and most of all when the white stuff will go away. Snow has piled up on the side of the barn where it has slid off the roof ( over and over I might add. )

A very satisfying afternoon in the sun. We have put off cabin fever and insanity for yet another 24 hours . The dogs are now sleeping after their outing . That sounds pretty good to me.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-19T19:24:00.000-08:00

Sunset

Solitude

2010-12-04T17:37:00.000-08:00

Today the Park is glowing through the V. Cloudy west of the Foothills and in the Park just spectacular.

Icy Art

2010-12-04T10:15:00.000-08:00

Sunshine adds a sparkle to the morning . Ever growing icicles descend from the roof.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-01T18:46:00.000-08:00

Stepping into Narnia.....

2010-11-28T08:48:00.000-08:00

The road into the National forest. Lions and tigers and bears!

The road to town. Waiting for the snow plow to buzz by and clear the new snow .

I suppose there are a few of you that are familiar with C.S. Lewis and the Narnia Chronicles. A wonderful story of four children who discover a portal into another time . They step through a wardrobe while playing a game of hide and seek and find themselves in a snowy wasteland of evergreens and silence. I think perhaps I have stepped into Narnia......There has been snow of some amount for the last 16 days. It is silent and magical outside. Occassionally the sound of a bird nearby and since it warmed to a balmy 33 degrees we now have the drip drip of snow melt.

Aspen branches heavy with their frosting .

As the snow continues to fall the husky house quietly disappears.

A new phenomenae .......

2010-11-23T18:50:00.000-08:00

Driving to work it had stopped snowing for a bit , safe to go out Eh? Not so quickly . I discovered a new phenomenae as I approached the last 90 degree turn in the road. The above picture is a tree blizzard . This is snow that was very happy to lay on the trees whipped up by the wind into a cloud that can pretty much obscure anything.

If you look closely you can see some interesting swirling patterns of snow taking flight from the building roof on the left side of the road. Prior to moving here I only recall this kind of thing at the peaks of K2 in those interesting National Geographic specials . hmmmm at any rate the Tree Blizzard can render your visibility to zero so it is prudent to drive slowly ; )

Making your own weather

2010-11-21T07:08:00.000-08:00

Heading out Saturday morning to get a block heater for the car. This will help me start the car when the oil turns to molasses at zero degrees. Fortunately it was only 13 degrees over night. Well apparently when it starts to snow here it doesn't stop till April. And that is if you are lucky. For winter driving I have been advised to have the following : A shovel, extra hat, gloves and coat and extra boots. This is so you can change clothes after your first set gets wet while you are digging your car out of the snow bank. Flares in the event that the digging doesn't work. Food for 2 days , not a week as in Montana you will be found in 48 hours where as in Alaska it could take a week. I also am stowing sand bags, water ( not in the trunk as it freezes ) an extra gallon of windshield washer as yours in the car may freeze and not come out in a timely fashion. Battery charger and a set of chains. Dog food for the dogs of course . So all of this is not supposed to be in the trunk but in your back seat. Which begs the question about where to put the dogs ? Trunk? So if I set out in inclement weather I will be well provisioned.

Heading back to the Foothills it was overcast but not snowing in general . you can see a thick blanket of clouds on the top of the mountains making their own weather. Up at 6000 to 7000 feet I bet there is some deep snow . Down in the valley 17 degrees with a windchill of 3degrees. Snow adds such a gorgeous dimension to the mountains.

Snow reaches the Valley floor

2010-11-17T18:28:00.000-08:00

A heavy snow fell on the Valley , it has been teasing since September, playing with the mountain tops , flirting with it's icy frosting for the last 2 months.

Last curve as we leave the Foothills, this open field is a favorite for the Turkey flock. Thank goodness the house in the distance feed them and they stay out of the road. Most of the time. Although I left at eight AM the plows had not reached this sector . A nice layer of ice covered by fluffy snow was fairly navigable.

Driving home the roads were clear and the Foothills glowed under their new snow . This is the beautiful Creston area where the soil is unbelievable. Thick dark loam that grows gorgeous wheat and christmas trees. Hoping for good roads tomorrow!

Soon to be listed on Etsy ......

2010-11-13T18:32:00.000-08:00

From Left to Right Kyanite earrings with fine silver and labradorite, lapis and peridot, Mystic Mountain organic glass with amethyst and moonstone, and far right is sleeping beauty turquoise lapis and fine silver. All ear wires are sterling although they look a bit golden in the picture. Soon to be listed in my etsy shop

Slightly different light with the Mystic mountain Left bottom, kyanite left top , lapis and peridot right top and the turquiose and lapis bottom right

Sunny Days in October ......

2010-11-13T17:58:00.000-08:00

Twisting Canyon curves on Hwy 2

Golden Tamaracks lighting the hillsides

November snows have crept down the Foothills in foggy white swirls along the green folds of the lower mountains and now October is just a sunny memory. Tamaracks turned golden along the mountainsides as I drove along highway 2 East that lies south of Glacier Park boundary. This was a perfect drive for another little feet adventure.

Theodore Roosevelt Monument -Continental Divide

Rocky Mountains

Careening thru canyons , through lush meadows teeming with deer and elk finally climbing up to Marias Pass and the Continental Divide where the Theodore Roosevelt monument stands 60 feet of granite mined near Helena. Originally it was to be an Arch structure over the highway. If you look carefully at the mountain north of the highway you will see a layer that is a thrust fault. The rocks on top of the Lewis Thrust fault are older than the ones below. During the formation of the Rocky Mountains an older sheet of metamophosed precambrian rock was thrust upon younger and softer Cretaceous material . The Lewis Thrust Sheet originated 50 miles south west of the Glacier Park and was moved here as the Farallon tectonic plate subducted under the Western margin of the pacific coast. Since the upper rocks were heated and now harder they have resisted erosion better than the softer cretaceous rocks below the thin line of limestone.

looking north across Hwy 2 you can easily see the thrust fault line ( thin white area half way up ) that divides the older Precambrian top rock from the softer and younger Cretaceous bottom layers.

Entrance to the Blackfeet Nation

This was a well known path by the American Indians. To the east the Blackfeet Nation. It was known to the Blackfeet as Backbone Pass. At 5216 feet , it is the lowest crossing of the continental divide in Montana. To the west were the Salish and Kootenai tribes who used this pass to hunt bison .It is named after the Marias River that has it's headwaters here before it heads East. The river is believed to be named by Captain Merriweather Lewis in 1805 for his cousin Maria Wood. John F. Stevens was commissioned by the Great Northern Railroad to find a way across the mountains. The pass that had been known to the surrounding tribes for centuries was found by the members of the Mr Steven's party in December of 1889 in 4 feet of snow and subfreezing temperatures. This is determination. By 1893 they had completed the last rail segment over Marias Pass. It was almost another 40 years before a road was forged in 1930.

Finally reaching my destination at Two Medicine Lake one of the eastern accesses of the Glacier National Park . Quiet for the season except for the wind. The crowds of summer tourists long gone. The sun warm on my face but a chill in the air predicted cooler weather to come.

Trains passing through Essex

A nice over the train bridge linking the two sides of the Essex hotel complex , it is about 30 feet over the tracks and you can see through the walkway to the trains below ! Great acrophobia aversion therapy!

Prior to the road between East and West Glacier, motor cars were shipped by train across Marias Pass to their destinations. Now Highway 2 connects the two small towns that flank the East West borders of Glacier National Park . Essex is a small ski town winter resort with mostly train traffic. Amtrak stops here bringing winter cross country skiers to a snowy paradise during the winter months. Accomodations include the main hotel and rail cars refurbished for eagar winter enthusiasts.

Hotel at Essex

A good feeling after a day's journey . Time to put up our little feet and say good bye to the sun .

Silent Sunday ..... A walk around Echo Lake

2010-10-03T19:33:00.000-07:00

A burst of purple !

The Road Traveled

In pursuit of the Turkey flock

Texture as seen on a mushroom

Reflecting the perfection

Watercolors in the Foothills

A harvest of rosehips

A Burst of Yellow!

Weather and Time

Sun Dreaming on Water

Kat

Fae circle of Mushrooms

still pond with turkeys

Surreal clouds at sunset

2010-09-28T19:08:00.000-07:00

this is a real picture which has not been touched up or shopped. sunset tonight . I am certain that there is a UFO involved here.

Mountain Meets Skye Necklace included in the Artfire "For Men" collection

2010-09-26T14:14:00.000-07:00

For the Men!

Curated By: bwdesigns

ArtFire.com

Fine Art Paintings

A good nite !

2010-09-21T19:26:00.000-07:00

A good nite is afoot. It has rained all day and before the sun is swallowed in the West it will pour it's gold upon us like lava spilling from the caldera.

6% ... the continuing travels of "little feet"

2010-09-12T10:50:00.000-07:00

Come on little feet , time for an adventure.... It's a dreary day but we are going to see what is in the Park today !

Logan Creek

A quick stop at the Logan Creek Drainage, a cozy cabin in the woods ( probably for the Rangers ) and the tops of the mountains hidden in the clouds today. What is striking in how much loose rock is in this creek bed. It makes you wonder what goes on at the height of spring melt.

1967 Forest Fire area near the Loop

Climbing higher your pass the stark reminder of the 1967 forest fire. Bare trees still reminding us how slowly this environment recovers . Up up we go passing magnificent waterfalls that crash to the valley below.

Going to the Sun Road

Finally reaching Logan Pass at 6646 feet . The snow has already visited today on the tallest peaks. Close to the visitor center is the Highline trail . Don't be fooled ! This is Bear Country ! All around are wonderful vistas , wildflowers and wildlife that is hardy and in my mind brave to live in such a challenging environment.

Snowy peaks at Logan Pass

Highline Trail

Sunlight playing on the new snow

Marmot

Mountain Goat hiding

The wind is howling and I reluctantly turn my little feet in the direction of the trailhead as the clouds build. Good bye for now beautiful and wild alpine meadow.Good bye to the Mountain goat that thinks I can't see him . I wish you could smell the evergreens and watch the clouds swirl around the peaks 3000 feet above me. In the distance you hear the rhythmic chirp of the marmot calling to the rest of his clan. Back in the car heading down the 6 % grade the rock walls squeeze you on the right side and infinity leaps off the edge of the road on the left.

6% Grade

Once we descend from the mountain we are back in the valley where the lake shimmers in the late afternoon sun. Homeward bound after a day of reflection. Another little feet adventure comes to a close.

McDonald Lake

In Memory of Jill who left us too soon. "I hold your heart in my heart" for showing me the way to loving absolutely. You are my braveheart.

Budding Explorer's Gentian

Wordless Wednesday ......

2010-08-18T19:17:00.000-07:00

The journey nears the end ....

2010-08-08T15:36:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous wide valleys and winding rivers

July 22nd broke sunny and warm . No sign of the thrashing winds and rain from the night before. We said good bye to my daughter and headed up I 90 West. The fields were green and the roadside views of the Mountains beautiful . We were still mindful of our safety and speed. There was a work zone past the Bozeman exits in a canyon area so we had to go slow through this winding stretch.

Craggy rocks on the East side of the Continental Divide

Hours later we were at the Continental divide as it descended into Butte. I can only marvel at the driving skills of oldest son for making it up and down the grades with a heavy truck.

We zipped through Missoula and veered north on the last leg of our travels past the majestic Mission Mountains.

We headed into the Flathead valley and wound our way into the foothills. We were treated to deer and peaceful shallow lakes surrounded by pristine marsh lands.

Across the strip of road separating the lake from the marsh.

Finally rolling up the last few miles minutes before a thunderstorm. Thankful to be at our destination safely.

I digress ...

2010-08-03T17:38:00.000-07:00

Waxing Nearly full moon in my new neighborhood. Is it really a neighborhood if cougar and bear live there too?

I digress. I hope you don't get the impression that all of a sudden I decided to move West. Rather this had been in the works ( on the back burner at least) for 12 years. Recently all the signs from the heavens showed that it was time to go. So I did a scouting mission last October. A trip on the Empire Builder with Amtrak and my mom. It went well for making connections ( I met my guardian angels Melissa and Nancy ) , fact finding and I was deleted from the will for being bossy by my mother. Then came months of continuing education and endless forms to get professional licenses in another state. Finally interviews started at the end of April and 15 planes later I was finally blessed with a job that suited my skills and was in the location I had been dreaming of . I would like to think the whole process was spur of the moment and I just loaded the dogs into the car. Hardly spontaneous but at least now a reality. So my first weekend with the moon rising in the East I had to be grateful for the many steps that had gone right in the process of bringing my life long dream to fruition.

A beautiful sunset from the window of the regional jet. High over the Chicago area we are treated to a gorgeous sunset as we ponder the small amount of airplane between the inside and the 40,000 feet to the ground outside. You guessed it . I am not that good at flying.

On the road West ....

2010-08-02T18:46:00.000-07:00

Lucy, Saucy and Gus

Tuesday night had us stranded at Exit 172 in the middle of nowhere South Dakota. Very well. The sunset was spectacular. The grasshoppers numerous. I finally went on to Rapid City to settle the 3 dogs and 3 cats for the night. I could only hope the nice man on the end of the phone would be able to fix the truck. At 2 AM I think my sons appeared tired but none the worse for the wear. A few hours of precious sleep.

Wednesday we planned to drive to South East MT to see my daughter. on the way we stopped in Sundance Wy where the boy's grandfather had pastored a small rural church. Connections.

Church of the GoodShepard

The boys! Nathaniel and Jason

The Bighorn Mountains in Wy

Kat and Marley

Wednesday afternoon we arrived to visit with my daughter and have a few hours of fitfull sleep. Yet another series of storms was sweeping down on Southeastern MT that night.The next day was sunny as we made our way down I90.......the Journey continues.

It has been a long time ..

2010-08-01T08:15:00.000-07:00

Pardon the abscence . I was turning my life upside down. I have now landed and getting my equilibrium back. July 18th I hopped in a 24 ft Uhaul and started driving West. North Carolina waved good bye with storms and plenty of waterfalling along I40. Good Bye beautiful Appalachian Water Spirit. I will miss you!

On through Tennessee and Illinois and the endless green fields of corn and soybeans. From the road the crops look good this summer.

As evening drew to a close the storms kicked up and the lightning chased us to Iowa.

The next day we drove thru Iowa and South Dakota. Sunny Skies and the Uhaul bounced along without incident . About 100 miles from Rapid City we lost the tread from one of the back truck tires. The sun was setting .....more later as we travel West.

Holding the Vision

2010-07-12T18:57:00.000-07:00

What do you dream about ? Do you take your mind's meanderings seriously? Are you a part of the dream or does it feel like it is a TV screen and it is happening to someone else? Manifesting . When you can get out of your head and into your heart and feel your dream, hear the sounds, feel the air on your face and enjoy the scents around you then you are there. Close your eyes and feel your favorite place with all the aspects that make it special . Hold the vision and manifest.

Cool off Hot summer nights with turquoise

2010-06-22T18:14:00.000-07:00

Cool off those hot summer nights with smooth kingman turquoise rondels in a necklace accented with .99 Hill Tribe silver. Sterling evergreen and moon pendant. Matching earrings on sterling wires.

Cool Turquoise waters flowing from Glacial peaks!

all vibrations ....

2010-05-31T07:31:00.000-07:00

"In a crystal we have the clear evidence of the existence of a formative life principal, and though we cannot understand the life of the crystal, it is nonetheless a living being . " Nicola Tesla

Brief interlude

2010-05-17T16:38:00.000-07:00

The Forest is green and inviting , come inside....

Hiking trail in Glacier, across the bridge

and feel the glacial waters!

Set your sights on the Continental Divide

Delight in the discovery of a random rock cairn as the stream mingles with the lake

Explore a potential hobbit house

Find a rushing river

Join a Mule Deer for a walk

And sit for a while , listening to the stillness punctuated by the loon.

A Glance Back

2010-05-09T16:18:00.000-07:00

A glance back in time to visit with an old friend. Welcoming canopies of tender green. The sound of tumbling waters and the distant woodpecker . Treading the path well known. Time well spent with an old friend .

Wild Geranium

Devil's Dip and sleeping whale rocks

Indian Creek's last descent

A late Trillium

Tom Branch Falls

Fanciful Fungi

Delicate ferns with River Birch

DeepCreek

Wild Flame Azalea

A place for tranquil footfalls

Indian Creek immerses herself into Deep Creek

To See with Clear Sight

2010-05-07T15:05:00.000-07:00

On Angel's Wings

Sassafras reaching for the skye

Apple Goodness !

Fragrant Lilacs

Sometimes it takes the extraordinary to allow us to focus on the ordinary. To see with clear sight those things in front of our eyes instead of the buzz behind the eyes. How many times do we miss the miracles around us whilst we are imprisoned by the circular concerns of the day? I wish you the Gift of Clear sight as you celebrate this weekend those loved ones who have nurtured you.

Is this spring ?

2010-04-30T16:53:00.000-07:00

No spring here. Tempting fate high above the horizon.

New Beginnings

2010-04-07T04:35:00.000-07:00

Pardon my absence . An injury side lined me for the last 2 months, but I am sound again in time to catch the first buds of spring. With the hot temperatures we will have to move quickly

Cheerful faces of the Forsythia! Is this bee bait or what !

First peep of the strawberry blossom!

Tender buds on the Blueberry bush

Freshwater pearl earrings for a June Wedding with 14KT GF lever backs. What is Spring without a promise of summer weddings!

Cycles

2010-03-02T16:32:00.000-08:00

"Those who can't remember the past are doomed to repeat it " ~ George Santayana ( 1863 - 1952)

No matter how I try, this time of year always imposes on my creative time. The chi is blocked till Uncle Sam has his due. Then perhaps the chi can flow once again like a beautiful river.

Learning

2010-02-16T16:04:00.000-08:00

"Teach us the road to travel and we will not depart from it forever" ~Satank~ Kiowa chief 1871

Today 140 years later there is a challenge to not only find the path to your genuine self but to remain steadfast. There are so many distractions from the music of the spheres.

Valentine's Collection

2010-01-31T16:46:00.001-08:00

This week I will be listing the valentine's collection, with genuine American Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, amethyst,kyanite ovals, green onyx briolettes, opaque rubies, white topaz, fine silver bead accents and sterling heart charms. Ear wires are sterling and may be changed out for your preference.

Blizzard Part Deux

2010-01-29T16:04:00.000-08:00

Here we go again. We have had dinner plate size snow falling out of the sky , ok maybe that is a bit of an exaggeration but at any rate 3 hours and 7 inches later it is still falling .

I have been officially busted. Yes those are Christmas lights on my tree. An old tradition. Leave them up till you get arrested by the neighborhood association.

So all is cozy , the fur balls are curled up next to the fire, and the lights are flickering as the limbs get heavy and lean on the power lines. Thank goodness for wood heat. We will see how things are in the morning . For now I am out to "mess" up the snow and gently unburden the limbs so they don't break , humming a few barrs of "MacArthur's Park" and all that sweet cream icing melting ; )

Abundance

2010-01-28T15:50:00.000-08:00

Today has come to a close with the upwelling of abundance and contentment. To live in the moment and simply be present, easy to say but sometimes a challenge, at this moment a reality .

"Humans are amphibians - half spirit and half animal. As spirits they belong to the eternal world, but as animals they inhabit time." ~ C.S. Lewis

My lovely daughter wearing an aquamarine and sterling necklace made for Christmas.

Hope

2010-01-24T11:33:00.000-08:00

Life breathes in and out. It has cycles and rhythms, Day and Night, the seasons, yin and yang. Yesterday was a giant breath of Hope. The entire day simply reverberated in this feeling. It was so refreshing , a new spirit washing over me like spring water cascading from a waterfall.

Posting today a necklace that will be donated for silent auction for a children's charity soon. It is hand wired 22 gauge sterling and Nacozari stablelized nuggets. Accents of sleeping beauty rondels. Sterling heart made by hand in the Rockies. The stones have not been dyed. This necklace is also available by request.

Turquoise ( sleeping beauty faceted and smooth rondels ) sterling wires and sterling heart charm. a bit shy of 2 inches including the hand made wires. I will be listing these in my shop shortly