Do you have a voice?

Sunset over the Flathead

The question that comes to me today is do you have a Voice? And more important is it heard ? One of the greatest gifts you can give to your children , friends and peers is the unconditional permission to speak their minds and hearts. That seems like a simple idea but there are many people who prefer to be the only one with a voice. Instead of giving all a chance to speak equally there are those who manipulate and bully until most around them are concerned about even uttering a whisper . When you are in a crowd of friends or family watch the dynamics. In a healthy group all members are encouraged to share their stories and experiences. All members are celebrated in their achievements. There is not greater gift than to live within a group of individuals that value all parties . No favorites, no secrets, no power alliances. All equal because really we are all valued spiritual beings. Those who fancy themselves other wise are having delusional thinking. When was the last time you truly felt others heard your voice?

Elk Herd moving into the valley

Snow Kissed Foothills

Larch lighting up the Mountainsides

On the way home....

 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

Saturday Harvest

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