Wet Weekend

The views were not the best but the fresh air and our brisk 3-mile walk was a nice break from too much time inside yesterday.

We hiked the road up to the Forest Service seed orchard at Grouse Creek.

That involves pulling off the Grouse Creek Road and walking past a big metal gate.

Horses in the farm field next to the seed orchard came trotting our way, wondering who the invaders were.

A sign along the way assured us that it was okay to visit the area.

"Foot travel welcome any time"

it read.

So, we took advantage of it.

Most of my photos were blurry cuz it was so dark and rainy, but the one above shows Bill and Willie walking the road.

The lake to the south is just visible, and we could clearly see Gold Hill.

On a clear day, this view is breath-taking, offering the lake, and spectacular views of the Selkirks.

We later drove to the Grouse Creek Falls turn-off before heading back home in the wet gloom.

Bill found out later that our friend Janice's geocaches had appeared on the geocaching site, and if only we'd known, we would have added a geocaching outing to the afternoon in Grouse Creek.

I have a feeling he may be headed up that way this afternoon.

It's been a relaxing weekend with a little sadness mixed in.

I attended a funeral yesterday for a former student, Tara Tuchon.

Tara sat in the front row near the wall in my first-period honors English class during my last year of teaching.

I remember so clearly the sadness during that year when her mother died after a tragic car accident north of town.

It was tough for Tara and her little sister Mandy; their mom had been so devoted to them.

With help from family, however, they moved forward. Tara had a beautiful singing voice and earned All-State Choir honors.

She went on to graduate from the University of Denver in 2008. She died a few weeks ago in a motorcycle accident.

Yesterday's service was poignant and sad but definitely a beautiful tribute to Tara, as many of her classmates, family and friends traveled from miles around to honor her memory.

RIP, Tara.

~~~~~~~~~

The rain has gone, a light coating of snow dresses the mountains about halfway down this morning. We have some dry days ahead, and even more time to enjoy what's left of the fall.

May you all have a great Sunday.