Through the Smoke and Fire

There's life after smoke but for a while there it didn't seem like it

Everything was seen through a thick haze

It kind of looked apocalyptic

or like when Mt. Saint Helens blew its lid when I was young

The ash arrived in our state a day later and it looked sort of like this

Fortunately the smoke didn't bother my eyes or lungs as it did some

Now we appreciate wind blowing it all away

It's a brighter day now

But many days of smoke are still in our memoriess

Zoo Montana (Again)

Yes, a return visit was in order

The inside portion has several stuffed animals...some more creepy than others

Outside it's pretty with many local plants

There are also relics of the past

Even a couple of draft horses

Some old brands

Just look at this turkey

This rabbit was being lazy in the heat

Feeding the animals is always fun

Gabby especially enjoys it

The fish were plenty fat

Old far equipment graces this area

I like this old stuff

It all speaks of an ear gone by yet not forgotten yet

Gabby had to give it a try

Have a seat and get hot cross buns

The Red Pandas were actually awake

Remember this now

Looking for a hand out

An American classic

Here's looking at you kid

The End of an Era

Yes, this is the end of my Meyer Creek cabin pictures this year.  It's a peaceful end

I've learned to appreciate what I've got since it's not always there tomorrow

Beauty is often in the eye of the beholder

But if you see only the negative even beautiful things can lose their luster

Arrogance and presumption isn't pretty

Humility is a wonderful lens in which to view life

Or last days gave us a visitor or two

They were cautious yet comical

The leader checked us out then the others proceeded to take a dust bath in the road ahead of us

So amusing to watch

The sun sets on this year's trip but the sun still rises on the blessing of God today

Beyond

Sometimes to see what God has for you there must be a departure from where you're at.  Phrases like "leap of faith" or "leaving your comfort zone" come to mind but frankly I find those phrases annoying.  Faith is a step into the unknown however you phrase it.  We left our comfy cabin to travel down the road further

I'm always glad for 4 wheel drive on this road

We usually travel here as dusk falls to avoid some of the day's heat

I love the light and lengthening shadows

Trees seem taller

The forest more intimidating during this time of day

Variations of color capture my eye quicker

Some leaves appear to herald fall's approach

But the fading sun still whispers summer

The wildflowers are still in their hayday

They care nothing of impending seasonal change

These Blue Bells relish their moment

This is beyond man's worry and concern

Here is an place not carrying where the road ends....this is simply beyond where little girls enjoy the end of another summer day