Bill and Linda

Heading East

2011-10-03T00:00:00.001-06:00

After hooking up the RV (good job Bill), we are homeward bound. So used to going west, we almost did and then said “wait a minute—we are going east for a change.

The forests are shouting with color. (A quote I just read from Steinbeck) The aspen do seem to glow among the deep green of the firs & pines (except those smitten by the pine beetle). We have seen some beautiful autumn color in the last couple of days.

Along Guanella Pass and Peak to Peak:

Over Trail Ridge and into Grand Lake:

The Golden Glow and carpet of color as we truck through the mountains:

Along the Cache Le Poudre (how much Bill wanted to stop & fish!)

Earlier this summer, we read how Aspen gets into your blood and makes you want to return. We feel that way about Colorado. (It could also have to do with 5 of our family here.)

Being a part of one last school function before we leave:

We are so excited to see our Columbia family, and looking forward to seeing many of you, family & friends.

So many happy times and blessings of this past season,

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

To Remember

2011-09-30T23:17:00.001-06:00

We have been able to see and enjoy much wildlife this summer. Here are a few pictures of those sightings:

A flock of wild turkeys that came to greet us on one of our drives-

The elk seem to be everywhere. We had one almost run right into us on one drive into Rocky. It is almost like tailgate parties during Rut season. When you drive into RMNP, there are people with chairs, tables, and picnics to see the evening show of the bulls and hear the bugling-

Seeing a moose is always an amazing sight:

Stellar Jays on a hike watch closely to steal whatever crumbs they can:

A special sighting pointed out by one Hikemaster: a tiny hummingbird nest:

We’ll miss this view as we opened our curtains each morning:

and our place of “dining” and socializing (do I really have to do our own cooking when we get home?):

One of the best views up on the YMCA mountainside:

As we leave for our Autumn tour driving home, we are reminded of the many opportunities and blessings of this season.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Coming to see us at the Y-M-C-A

2011-09-28T23:27:00.001-06:00

So happy to welcome family and friends to the Y.

Those coming to do the Y-M-C-A:

The Nixon 5 came to see us and have some fun when we first arrived.

We enjoyed our visit with Bill’s sister Sharon and Mike. Here we are at the top of Trail Ridge Road—after driving up the windy dirt Fall River Road.

Some “back home” friends, the Norwoods came to spend some time with us in the beautiful setting of the Y and the Rocky Mt. National Park (we really aren’t recruiting!) Later we gathered at the Baldpate Inn for the Autumn “Crazy Corn Supper.”

We had a lot of fun when the kids came for one last hurrah at the Y. And why wouldn’t they--here is just some of what they did: sand art, mini-golf, nature graphics, Nixon Family games, swimming. And of course PaPa had a fire ring for s’mores.

Our fellow Maroon Bell volunteers came to see us, and what it’s all about at the Y. The guys fished and Billie and I had a beautiful fall hike to Mills, the lake that is portrayed on the Colorado quarter. How great to be with them again.

What a great place to enjoy company!

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Work Days & Fun Days

2011-09-21T22:20:00.001-06:00

We get in our work hours, so we can have fun! Seriously though, the time we spend at work, is a big part of what we call our Y adventure.

This is work:

Bill and his work buds from Nigeria:

Some of the friendly library staff:

Since Bill’s knee is better (or he is ignoring the pain), we are getting in some more hiking, and fall is the perfect time. There is always a great new hike just around the corner, it seems. We just did one of our all time favorites, not too long, but with a 1000’ elevation gain, and a 360 view at the top of Krueger Rock:

Might have chickened out on the scramble at the top, if friends hadn’t said Do It!

I enjoyed a great “walk in the Park” one beautiful afternoon:

We enjoy the company and what we learn on Hikemaster-led hikes from the Y:

A short drive and a shorter hike with friends was a lot of fun:

Hope you are all well, Celebrating the Journey, Bill & Linda

Bill and his buds from Nigeria.

Some of the friendly library staff.

Bill’s knee is doing some better (or he is used to it), so our hiking has improved. I hiked with some friends out of the Y right into Rocky Mountain National Park. There is always something we haven’t seen before. It was a beautiful afternoon and I am so grateful for all the walking we do. (a lot of it to the Spruce Dining Room).

The YMCA of the Rockies

2011-09-16T21:23:00.001-06:00

Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, & Faith

When we put on our lanyard each morning, we are reminded. It is a good way to start the day in the beauty and “specialness” that is this place.

I read this morning, “something about this place stirs your soul”. How very true, and the reason people keep returning. As the brochure says it’s about staying and playing together, exploring, enjoying the seasons, and being inspired. It is wonderful to see that happen in the families that visit. We are happy to still see the Y’s Christian principles in the programs and environment here.

Some scenes from the YMCA of the Rockies:

And from our window, we see a dusting on the mountains today.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Mountains & Memories

2011-09-11T21:40:00.001-06:00

To all my girls (sisters, d.i.l., friends, cuz, etc.)

What a fun girls’ weekend we had! For last Mother’s Day, my daughter gave me this scrapbooking weekend to enjoy with her and some friends. And enjoy we did! It is just down the road from the Y (and a world away). Bill was meantime working.

We scrapped, and ate, and watched movies, and they even went roller skating (I was the photographer!). My daughter is the crazy leader and I am so glad she can be!

Even if you don’t “scrap”, this home is a fun place to get away. They met us at the door carrying all of our stuff, cooked our meals and rang a bell when they were ready, had lots of snacks, and freebies—all in the beautiful setting of the Rocky Mountains.

Love you all, Celebrating the Journey, Linda

9/11 Tribute

2011-09-11T18:51:00.001-06:00

What a Tribute in remembrance of September 11. I am sure many of you attended one also.

Tattoo Estes with the U.S. Marine Corps Band and the 1st Battalion Scotsguards gave an awesome program. The Tattoo is a military field concert and one of our favorite things to attend here. The Fanfare, the Pipes & Drums, the bagpipes playing Amazing Grace, while scenes of 9/ll were shown—put a lump in everyone’s throat as we remembered. Each branch of the military was recognized as we stood for our families

Counting our blessings for the country we live in,

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Family, Friends, and Fun at the Y

2011-09-06T22:38:00.001-06:00

We are so happy to be back and have had a busy and fun first week (hard to believe it’s just been a week).

Advertisement for the day: The YMCA of the Rockies is a great place for reunions and for families to spend quality time together & have a lot of fun.There is lots to do.

YMCA Hayride, with S’mores and Cowboy Poetry

Archery lessons from “one of the best”

Sprague Lake, a family favorite (remember the camera incident?)

PaPa trying to show the girls a stream crossing:

Working on their Naturalist Badge with Ranger Bob:

Be sure & check out the Library-“May I help you?”

Checking out our dorm:

And of course it’s always fun to stay at the Y-M-C-A

This was an unpaid advertisement.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

As of September 1

2011-09-02T20:50:00.001-06:00

After a Tea Party and getting to go Back to School,

As of September 1, we moved on to the YMCA and the Rocky Mt. National Park.

Here is our new home away from home:

And here is our “dorm”, How nice to have cell phone wi-fi, and regular electricity—don’t have to go outside to turn on the generator if I want to dry my hair!

we were surprised at how many people we knew that were here when we were 2 years ago. Our Texas friends are just as fun and friendly as ever and invited us to a “training” meeting as soon as we arrived.

Bill’s schedule was to go right to work. After they found out he had taught archery at Id-Ra-Ha-Je last year, that is right where programs sent him.

I, on the other hand had some days of hiking, and fun in the Arts and Crafts:

As soon as we got here, we got to see some local creatures busy as beavers:

Had a great evening celebrating birthday and anniversary with friends- 12 we knew from before. Some had to leave, Jason to find out the score of the Baylor/TCU game. (season has started, huh)

Have a great Labor Day weekend, Celebrating the Journey, Bill & Linda

Hints of Fall

2011-08-26T16:33:00.001-06:00

With so many hints of fall here in Aspen, we know it is time for us to pack up and leave for our next home away from home.

Fireweed comes out they say when it’s time to think about school.

Past their peak.

Gold on the meadows and the aspen are just starting to turn.

Some of our parting shots as we clean up and finish work:

What a place to work!

Bill in the mule for his last stint.

The Visitor Center

We get to see the moose again.

A view to remember

On our last day of work, one man stopped me and said “Teach us something.” Where to begin—we have learned a lot and have so many memories. Some:

The peaceful scene of ducks swimming in the lake with the Bells in the background. The little chipmunk running across the trail in front of the kids. The girls getting to see the Snowshoe Hare from their bed’s window. The excitement of the 4th of July parade through the girl's’ eyes.Sitting and writing in a field of orange paintbrush, yellow & white daisies and purple mountain bells, with the sound of the creek at my feet. Watching Bill cast his fly rod, enjoying fishing in this beautiful setting. The echoes of laughter filling the valley when all 5 grands were here. When Bill came back from fishing and said he had met a bear face to face! The night in the meadow when we saw the white table and cloth with candles and flowers and found out the couple became engaged. And of course, the night we were awakened by the camper needing help from the bear attack!

We are so thankful that we could do our jobs and were able to help when called upon.

One last volunteer good-bye party, and we are leaving the White River N.F.and heading for the Rocky Mt. N.P.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Our Visitors at the Maroon Bells

2011-08-25T16:22:00.001-06:00

The Nixons

3 grand-daughters:

Kyndall and Jen & girls:

The Bandys

Laura and the Lankfords:

The Goofballs at our campsite:

(couldn’t get them all to pose at the Bells)

Reagan and Clay:

The Hutchens:

We have enjoyed lots of visitors that we could share the Bells with.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

U.S. Pro Cycling into Aspen

2011-08-24T18:29:00.001-06:00

There is always something exciting going on here, and this event is something else. According to the newspaper, this may be the biggest spectator event in Colorado history! There are 17 teams with more than 130 pro cyclists. They say it is the toughest course on American soil, with 7 days of riding over mountains and passes from Co. Springs to Denver. Here, they raced over Independence Pass into Aspen. It is hard for us to even comprehend, since driving over it is scary.

The “Queen Stage” of the race went from Gunnison into Aspen. This 130 mile segment is said to be the most grueling, going over 2 passes that are over 12,000 ft. and finishing in Aspen.

Since cars were banned on most of Aspen streets for the event, Bill and I parked at the Station and rode in on our lowly (very lowly) bikes. When I told Jeri Anna the race was coming here, she wanted to know if PaPa and I were in it . We weren’t prepared for all the excitement that was Aspen today—like the Super Bowl! Watching the Jumbotron as the bicyclists came over and down Independence Pass with everyone cheering was really fun. (Also there was a big Forest Service presence.) After the race, Aspen is a big party. We are watching some of the excitement as they now all (vendors, bicycle support, families) pack up for the next leg of the race. We just met one cyclist’s aunt who introduced us to him (from N.H.). We will now be rooting for young Ted King.

From Aspen and the USA Pro Cycle Challenge,

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Bears have been bad news

2011-08-24T18:04:00.001-06:00

That is how one newspaper’s headline read. Some of you have already read about the bear attacks here. There’s always the possibility when you are out in the wilderness, but this was unusual for the area, and seemingly unprovoked.

In the middle of the night, there was a pounding at our door and a man calling our for help saying his friend had been attacked by a bear. We knew the area he was talking about and it was not an easy hike back out. All 4 of us (the Maroon volunteers) went into action and are so glad that we could work together to get the help that was needed. Using the satellite phone, we were able to contact the Pitkin Co. Sheriff’s office. We also went down the mountain to cell phone coverage and got in touch with our White River Supervisors.

As we learned later, the bear stomped the man’s tent and bit through his sleeping bag. They did all they could to scare the bear off, even lighting a fire. They were well prepared and one camper had first aid supplies to control the bleeding.

The Maroon Bells was not a quiet peaceful place that night. Several from Montaind Rescue and the Patrol cars were quickly here, along with White River staff. It wasn’t so fast out though because it takes a long time to do one of those rescues in the back country. Bill stayed up at the trail and actually helped bring the man out. He said he was doing very well considering all that had happened.
How well everyone worked together and we are thankful that the man was doing well after surgery at the close-by hospital.

The next day, there were lots of questions and people and hunting going on. We saw the men go out on horseback and Colorado Parks and Wildlife later confirmed that they had killed the bear. Of course, no one ever likes to see that done, but as it was explained the bear would most likely go back to the same place looking for food.

Be careful and Be safe,

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Penguins & Friends

2011-08-23T12:12:00.001-06:00

No, we haven’t seen any here, but Bill called us penguins in our black and white night working at the Wheeler.

Getting to volunteer at Theatre Aspen and at the Wheeler, have truly been exciting adventures. (and besides that those tickets would have cost $85!) The performance of West Side Story by students chosen from all over the country, was incredible. The story still makes me cry. It was a privilege to welcome and seat guests in this grand, old historic building—and what fun! Bill enjoyed running the elevator.

Then at the Theater it was all black (I think so we blend in). Here we are with our volunteer coordinator. We are so glad we met this nice young woman. And we are really going to miss our host friends, the Lillies.

Afterwards Colleen invited us old people to go out with her theater friends. (definitely not something we would be doing at home-lots of fun)

The Hutchens came for a visit—camping in their big rig,right on our lot with us. We did lots of fun things and were so glad to see them. We even made sure they experienced a little culture. Went to the last night of the tent with the combined Aspen Orchestra and the Colorado Chorale. Sandy was especially glad to find out that dogs are welcome most anywhere here in Aspen.

On our hike and what we saw:

Bill put David to temp help with the F.S.

The dogs were still breathing at the top of the Pass

Having fun at a famous local hangout—Woody Creek Tavern

Cookout with friends from home and the Bells, and our new deputy friend. We are so glad to meet new people all the time here.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU—Kyndall we love you.

Safe travels to Sandy and David, and a big congratulations to Kendra and Willie on the birth today of Blake.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

NINE!

2011-08-18T22:09:00.001-06:00

Yes, our camper can accommodate 9! But only if Uncle Jerry brings his tent! We had 3 Colorado girls, their Mommy & Daddy, 2 Columbia kiddoes, & us.Whew!!! Bill had to look into the solar power and sewer which were taxed to the max. After working out who got to sleep in the tent when (silly us-we thought they might not want to), a good time was had by all.

How we enjoyed getting them together at “our camp”, after they had all been at camp. Clay’s experience at Kamp was that he asked Jesus into his heart! Thank you Lord.

They had come to Colorado to help celebrate 2 girls’ birthdays—What a party we had (and of course a campfire later).:

Being cool at the Hot Springs!

Reagan, Kyndall and Jerry joined us in the experience of greeting and ushering for a wonderful production of “Annie” by Theatre Aspen.

And the rest got to enjoy the play from front row seats.

The Rotary Ducky Derby is an Aspen tradition and we all joined in the fun.

Before they flew home to Missouri, R&C had a ride through the Colorado Aspens with PaPa.

How blessed we are to have them all together, AND how tired we are!

May God Bless you and your families,

Celebrating the Journey,Bill and Linda

August at the Bells

2011-08-18T22:04:00.001-06:00

Can’t believe our time here has gone so quickly. Since there is so much to do both day and night, we are trying to make the most of it.

The Ballet

One of the highlights of our summer here for sure. We attended a joint performance of the Santa Fe Ballet and the Aspen Symphony Orchestra for Romeo & Juliet. It was fantastic! (Enjoyed it almost as much as when we see our girls perform!)

Hiking

Billie and I have had some great hikes. We encourage each other along on the tough ones, as we share & talk, and ooh and ahh at the scenery, and talk some more hiking across these beautiful forests.

“Marmots, bear, butterflies, and beavers—Oh my!”

The marmots are cute and plentiful.

PaPa and the kids were out in the mule, and Alexandria calmly said “There’s a bear climbing up that tree!” Sure enough all the kiddoes got to see him, and up close!

Lots of beautiful butterflies

And some cute little beavers!

We don’t have a picture of those pesky porcupines but we do have some of their quills. And the pine martens are just too fast.

Some of the every day beauty that we don’t take for granted:

Before summer slips away, a special evening with friends and fellow Maroon Hosts:

And a fun get-together with our White River friends and co-workers:

Hoping to hear from you, enjoying your August.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

50 degrees

2011-08-08T18:33:00.001-06:00

Not to rub it in to you all in the heat wave of 2011-- it is 50 degrees as I write. We are not sorry to be missing that over 110 degrees stuff!

      Busy Time at the Bells

Everyone seems to be climbing and hiking now that the weather and snow in the mountains are cooperating. Whew—has it been busy! Several people commented that they wondered why these shuttles were necessary, and now they know. Good! Bill just returned from helping get some overnighters settled in. They usually leave about 3 or 4 in the morning when they are climbing one of the big peaks!

A few pics of us doing our thing:

Assisting the crowds in finding a place to park to enjoy the beauty.

   Hanging out with the Rangers!

Wild flowers

Some beautiful flowers to share and to remember:

May God Bless you, Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Aspen—What a Place

2011-08-08T17:53:00.001-06:00

Al Gore, Condaleeza Rice, Vice-Premier of Israel, Philip Yancey, Mt. Everest climber Eric Alexander, Amy Grant & Vince Gill, John Oates, Patti Austin, plus a lot more musicians. And these are only the ones we knew were here this week!

To my Bible Study friends, I was so excited to hear Yancey speak on the book we studied, and his talk entitled “What the Mountains Taught me about Prayer.” On top of the mountain we get just a little view of what God knows.

Eric Alexander scaled Mt. Everest leading his blind friend--What a story he had to tell! His talk was entitled “What’s Your Everest?” Starting every climb with prayer, he urged us to do the same and be courageous as we blaze our own trails in serving.

How thankful we are for these opportunities! And Wow! They and Janet Yancey came by our camper to see us after they finished their 14er! I am still excited.

Kyn and Jen

Many of you prayed for our little friend Canyon when she had her accident a while back. We were so glad to have her and Mommy Jen here this week with Kyndall and Jeri Anna. The Niccores work for Young Life in Kauai. You would never know what this active little 5 year old has been through when you see her.

(We think the Mommies might have had more fun--we even heard something about the Vince Gill/Amy Grant concert at the St. Regis!)

Here they are on their Crater Lake Hike—what a difference a year has made!

Id-Ra-Ha-Je & Kanakuk

While they were here the other kiddoes were at camp all having lots of fun we hear. Best of all from Kamp, Clay told us “I asked Jesus into my heart.” Thank you Lord for his simple faith and these counselors.

Fun, Fun

We went to the Carbondale Mountain Fest with friends.As the paper said, this was a major community vibe, undeniably connected to its hippie roots (it’s been going 40 yrs), outdoorsy, and definitely a product of Colorado. We listened to music, had fun visiting the crazy booths, ate, and sang 70s songs on the way home.

Where else would you see the police wearing tie-dye???

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Birthday Week

2011-07-30T15:57:00.001-06:00

Jeri Anna and I are glad to have our birthdays close together. We had some fun celebrations. Here we are at Jump Street—lots of little girls having fun jumping, along with Kyndall right in the middle of it.

This 5 year old was really excited with her Unicorn birthday cake!

Then we continued the celebration at Pine Valley, one of our favorite picnic places, right on the water (not too cold for these girls).

Back in Aspen Bill and Billie planned a birthday dinner for me here, for friends and soon to be friends. It was an exciting day as some moose even made an appearance in Maroon Lake.

Since we had a couple of days off, Bill took me to Crested Butte—a beautiful wildflower area. The scenery on our hikes was breath-taking!

Thank you friends and family for your birthday cards, emails, etc.

Have a great weekend, Celebrating the Journey, Linda and Bill

Rocky Mountain High

2011-07-18T18:40:00.001-06:00

I am still on a Rocky Mountain High after the Music of John Denver Concert we attended. Wow! Rick Schuller has an amazingly similar voice and is cute, too.We went with friends for this evening at the Methodist Church (yes!).

We sang, cried, laughed, and were taken back through the years. What an evening!

A summer in Aspen is a lot about music. We’ve enjoyed wonderful praise music (with a featured cello, Phyllis), some great folk music at the Limelight, rock group the Stone Foxes, Braham’s Concerto for Violin & Cello, and the music of John Denver!

Having fun and Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Colorado/Missouri

2011-07-17T14:58:00.001-06:00

While Bill took some time to rest his hyper-extended knee (seems to go with the territory), we stayed at the Nixons’ mountain home, enjoying their new deck. Meanwhile, the whole fam was in Missouri. (I think I heard 18 gathering in Branson and back in Monett.)

The original reason for the occasion was Kyndall’s Reunion and it sounds like the class of 1991 had a ball.

We are so glad our extended family could all be together even if we weren’t there. Thank you Mike & Phyllis for taking over as Grammy & PaPa.

We didn’t have as much fun as all of them, but we visited our old stomping grounds, going to Fair Play and Buena Vista, and soaking in the hot springs at Mt. Princeton. Back over the Independence Pass, we had a picnic by the waterfall and fishing at the Grottoes, and came into an exciting Aspen in full vacation mode.

Then back to work! Assisting with parking for the crowds that are now coming to Maroon Bells, since the spring run-off is finally running off. And of course keeping the area clean for all to enjoy. Not all work here though. I hiked with Billie and friend Ranger Rob, and Bill of course fished.

We worshipped at our favorite church here, then Sunday afternoon at the Music Tent, and also a special “songs of John Denver” concert. Fun!

Hope you are enjoying your Sunday, Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Some of our days and nights

2011-07-10T19:18:00.001-06:00

          Saturday in Aspen, This day off was especially pleasant. After meeting and having breakfast with some local residents (interesting teachers), we were volunteers at the Tent for Theatre Aspen’s production of “Annie.” Who doesn’t come out smiling after Annie? This was our 2nd show and I have to say Bill enjoys it as much as me.

     Out door Market is always a treat.

Buying a book about Maroon Bells from the author.

There was a string quartet, lots of great booths, and the Plein Air Festival. We enjoyed seeing & talking with some of the artists up at Maroon Bells earlier in the week. We bought Colorado fresh fruits and veggies and had our fellows volunteers over for dinner and games.

          Sunday   We worshipped at our favorite mountain community church. We went there after Kyndall had her heart attack—one year ago. Thank you Lord for taking care of her. Happy Living Anniversary to Kyndall – tomorrow, and also to Kyndall & Jerry on their wedding anniversary. As Debbie, said Happy, Happy Day! And they are in Missouri with all the family and we are not!

The Music Tent in Aspen—that is a unique experience to be sure. I can think of nothing like it. Here we are in this really kind of small mountain village, and world-renowned musicians come every summer to play and teach. Listening to the concert is a wonderful way to spend the afternoon/evening. In this gorgeous setting of mountains, streams and aspens, we sit with everyone else on blankets, chairs and grass. The atmosphere is completely hushed and people are all over the hill listening, smiling,swaying, reading, picnicking. As we walked out, Bill agreed with the man behind him that he had never heard Rachmaninoff played that way.

Some pictures from our camp:

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

To work, to work

2011-07-07T20:31:00.001-06:00

Back from vacation and holiday, we are actually settling into WORK now. It is great and part of the reason we are here. Today we had “water training”. We learned this involves more than just keeping the place green. We want to improve the biomass of the soil, encourage the native plants and wildflowers, and take out the noxious weeds (not native to the area). And then after that, we clean the 4-holer! How is that for a varied job? We like all that we are doing, some jobs more than others.

Most of all it is interesting as always meeting people from all over. There was the family on vacation from Virginia wanting their picture made, the group being the first of the year to hike the 4-Pass Loop, and the woman who had lost her husband recently and was back because he loved to fish here.

From Aspen on the 4th:

Hiking with the girls at the Bells

From the Parade:

An unbelievable archeological find at Snowmass (check the news)

Snow from the mountains!

Playing “float the flip-flop” down the stream

Of course Smokey Bear was there!

After a day of work & play we are at Snowmass concert—great, but raining again.

May God Bless you and yours, Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Back at the Bells

2011-07-04T20:51:00.001-06:00

          Driving through sun, rain, hail, wind and then sun again, we know we are back in Colorado. Parking our rig at Maroon Bells, we are glad to be back. Sorry that our fellow volunteers from last year are not here, we look forward to their arrival. We set up camp and get on the job training.

                        Then the Nixons come to camp and play with us.





                                          Happy 4th of July!

God Bless you all as you celebrate America!

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Trip of a Lifetime

2011-06-27T09:30:00.001-06:00

Coming to the end of our Great Alaskan Adventure, we can say it has been the trip of a lifetime. I read somewhere that it would really take a new vocabulary to describe it—how true. Like others who have been here through the years, in a small way we have felt like we were explorers, too. We have seen incredibly beautiful sights and scenery, blazed new trails (for us at least), met some challenges, gotten to know many interesting locals and campers, and been blessed in many ways. People have told us that Alaska really gets in your blood. Who knows? We may be back.

Pictures tell the story:

Homer, AK

Bill got to catch his big one!

Sea Otter at Land’s End waving hello/goodbye.

H.O.W.L.ing with the locals (hula hoops with flames!)

Campfire Friends

Here you can walk right up to the glacier (Brrrrrr).

At a Russian Orthodox Church—the Russian influence is still very strong here.

Mosquitoes—We aren’t say they are big or anything, but we were ready with our nets.

Sky at Beluga Point from our camper – 1:00 AM!

We are thankful for our trip of a lifetime, and hope you get to take yours too.

Celebrating the Journey in Alaska, Linda & Bill

We WILL remember Seward!

2011-06-25T01:46:00.001-06:00

June 24 was a day of beauty and incredible sights as we road the ferry (yes they let you take campers on) across Prince William Sound from Valdez to Whittier.

We sailed past Bly Reef, where the Valdez went aground. Our captain navigated us right into Columbia Bay to get a clear view of the glacier, and we were glad he did such a good job through all the ice chunks and icebergs. It was beautiful.

Columbia Glacier

Sea otters on ice chunks

With the help of the ranger, we saw Humpback Whales, bears, Rooster Tail Porpoises, Kittywakes, Sea Otters, Stellar Sea Lions, and Eagles.

This was probably one of our favorite days---right up until…..

This is still hard to believe. We had just set up camp on the ocean on Resurrection Bay in the Gulf of Alaska at Seward and were visiting with other campers when we heard a very loud alarm go off and then:

Attention, This is a Tsunami warning! This is not a test. Repeat: This is a warning!

It was like something we couldn’t even imagine. We all looked blankly at each other. The campground host began telling us the tsunami evacuation routes. One lady got on her ipod and found out there had been a 7.2 (!) earthquake somewhere in the Aleutians. As we began to pack up and leave, a fire/search and rescue truck came and told us it had been a false alarm. Wow! Information came in very slowly and we still don’t know much. We heard there were a lot of paniced people closer to it, but the earthquake was far from us. It was decided to send out the warning to all along the Alaskan coast and I say better safe than sorry. It was an uneasy night of sleeping needless to say.But we were OK. Thank you, Lord. As we said good bye, one woman said, I hope we never hear anything like that again in our lives. Amen!

I will say good night, but sleep will not come soon, as I am looking another incredible pink/yellow sky with mountains across the Cook Inlet. Wow!

Celebrating the Journey, Linda and Bill

Wrangell St. Elias N.P. and Valdez

2011-06-25T01:03:00.001-06:00

After leaving Denali, we drove into Talkeetna—quaint little and interesting little Alaska village which is the base for those adventuresome and crazy people who climb Mt. McKinley. At the Ranger Station were the records of those currently attempting to ascend and descend. It take at least 2 weeks because they have to allow so much time to acclimate for the climb to 20,320!

The museums are a big part of our experience as we travel through these Alaska towns because we learn so much about the history of the area. Here we read about the pioneers, the climbers, and how important aviation has been to the settling of Alaska.The stories of bush pilot rescues on the mountain were incredible.

We camped at what may be our most unusual place yet—a rest area not far from the base of the Metanuska Glacier. (it is behind us)

How exciting to look out the camper at the massive white and blue of the glacier! It is a good thing we are self-contained since it was raining and we cooked right in the RV. As we walked there the next morning, we ran (almost) into a moose on the trail. The rangers say if a moose charges to run, but if a bear charges to stand your ground. Either one would take a lot of presence of mind. This one did not seem to care about us, but we still took a different path.

Continuing down the Glen Allen and Richardson highways, we consulted our Milepost often. It is a great travel book with information about everything sat mileposts all along the way. It is important since you are traveling such distances and civilization can be a distance. It says things like: MM80.5 – double turnout, 93.1 hardware and supplies, 97.6 – We really enjoyed this one. It said Caution, Watch out for moose. Bill said, “That moose might be old if he is still here. Right then we had to slow down for a moose to cross the highway in front of us. What a travel book!

Factoid for Red: A Walmart we passed (we haven’t seen many), is said to sell more duct tape than any in the world! It is holding lots of cars and other things together.

Wrangell St. Elias

As Reagan had told me she learned at school, it is the largest National Park in the US. The “Crown of the Continent” as it is called, is so big it is hard to comprehend. Just one of the facts: It’s larger than the country of Switzerland & with higher peaks! It has only been a National Park since 1980 and is still virtually unexplored as there are only two main roads going into it. Its vast beauty we really only saw in the film. We hiked a little of the boreal forest there.

Valdez

We wound our way through unbelievable scenery—glaciers(only 700 of them here have even been named!), snow-covered mountains, and beautiful wildflowers. We stopped and hiked around at Worthington Glacier and then crossed over the infamous Thompson Pass (Bill just shakes his head when he sees the bigger RVs and buses). Arriving in Valdez we were pleasantly surprised. It is hard to imagine a prettier setting anywhere in Alaska.This small town is surrounded by mountains and waterfalls and 8 glaciers, and is right on Valdez Harbor! Bill was certainly glad to park it here for a few days while we relaxed and enjoyed the area. We had fun hiking or biking through town, on the trails and to the harbor to watch the ships come in. We stopped at the Forest Service Visitor Center of the Chugach Nat’l Forest—felt right at home with the volunteers. (Bill wishing he was fishing.)

Many historic events in Valdez: 1898 –The Gold Rush Stampede; 1964 – 9.2 Earthquake, 1970s – Trans Alaskan Pipeline, 1989 – Exxon Valdez Oil Spill.

We read and heard many stories from the people who are survivors of the earthquake. It reminded us of those we heard when we worked at Earthquake Lake Visitor Center. The building of the Alaskan Pipeline was incredible. After being held up (lots of reasons) for several years, construction was finally begun in 1973. The stories of the workers and engineers were unbelievable. It was said to be the single largest private industry project in the world. It employed 20,000 people and is an 800 mile length of pipe from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez. Some of it is above ground and some underground because of the permafrost. Too much info unless you are an engineer, Danny! The history of the building of the Pipeline made us very aware of the American spirit.

It was fun to talk to a local boy, about 8, who was excited about his birthday coming up, and he said he was really lucky because it was in the summer and it was light! Also, while here, we had some TV coverage and it was funny to hear the weather person say “we had a cloudy day, but we have a pretty sunny night ahead!” Right now as I type it is 11 pm and bright sun tonight!

Greetings to all of you, Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Denali

2011-06-22T02:24:00.001-06:00

     So many experiences & adventures to remember. We were glad we did the long all-day Katishna Experience. This bus shuttle is the way you get through the drivable part of the Park all the way to the End of the Road.

Our driver Nancy was a local, with lots of good stories and information:

Mt. McKinley was named by an explorer who went back and told Pres. McKinley about this incredible mountain that he had named Mt. McKinley (some say he was trying to persuade him in his decision to set the standard as either gold or silver). It remains Mt. McKinley even though everything around is Denali (native name meaning the tall one).

She told about what her family does to survive the often 40 below temperatures in winter. Her boys liked to get cups of water and throw the water out the door—it freezes and comes down in droplets before it ever hits the ground.

At the End of the Road, Ranger Eric joined us. He told us about local character Fannie Quigley, and was she ever a character. She and her husband made a living in the wilderness of what is now Denali N.P., minding the miners, as they say. She did it all, from hunting to skinning animals to baking her famous bluebarb (blueberry & rhubarb) pie.

     The bus driver said we had what they call a “grand slam” day—seeing grizzlies, Dall sheep, moose, caribou, and most importantly a clear view of Mt. McKinley. Woo-Hoo! They say only 30% of visitors get to actually see the mountain (there are even “30%” T-shirts). We did and it truly in an incredible sight.

Hiking in the Wild

     We decided to take the Discovery Hike with Ranger Jakara and what a day it was. One of the buses picked us up at our campground and we rode into the Park. I am pretty sure there is no way Bill would have gotten me out into the wild with the grizzlies, unless we were hiking with a ranger. How very different from hiking we have done elsewhere. There is no organized trail system in Denali, and you are encouraged to bushwhack. This is to keep the wilderness as natural as possible. So we just struck out across the tundra with our interesting little group.

     Part of that day: We hiked through willows (moose like to eat) and brush (bears like to be in) so we would talk to let them know we were coming through; walked across rocky scree; bounced on the very spongy moss; were surprised by 2 caribou outlined on the horizon not far from us; ate our lunch in a cold mist; were amazed at the complete silence of it all; watched as Bill fell in the creek; felt like we were on top of the world as we enjoyed the panorama at the summit; all cheered together when we were done.



This was an experience that we will never forget. What a place to praise the Lord.

And here is a picture trying his hand with the Alaskan sled dogs!

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Great Alaskan Adventure

2011-06-20T11:10:00.001-06:00

So much we have seen and learned in the last few days, it seems I can’t take the time from it all to write.

The drive to Denali had us both glued to the windshield gazing at it all as we bumped along (yes, those roads are as rough as you’ve heard-they call them frost heaves, not bumps). As we approached the entrance to the park, we were excited to see a big moose—just a hint of things to come. We are really getting used to our house on wheels.

It is easy to see why they call Denali, the Crown Jewel of the National Parks. What incredible and pristine beauty! Amazing! Like our ranger said, he’s lost count of how many times he’s said amazing.

We found our site and set up camp, using our RV’s amenities for cooking. After that first supper (always better over a fire), we made our way to the amphitheater for the ranger talk—always interesting and this one was no exception. She told us of the climate and life here in the winter and the amazing adaptations the animals have made for survival. One interesting one was the wood frog, who pulls his body’s liquids into his stomach for warmth & then totally freezes until he thaws in spring!

As I write at midnight, the sky is just turning pink, orange, and yellow as it casts shadows over the mountains. They call it alpenglow and it is breathtaking. It truly is the Land of the Midnight Sun. No matter what time you go to bed or get up-it is light.As sort of a night owl anyway, I am finding it hard to make myself go to sleep. As one ranger told us, she never told her kids to be home by dark, because she wouldn’t know when she would see them again.

The Mountain—Mt. McKinley—impossible to take it all in.It truly is an amazing sight.The 20,320 ft. mountain is the tallest in North America. As our book says it has the greatest relief of any mountain in the world, and is the biggest single thing you will ever see on the planet! Not all get to see it when they are here (weather, atmosphere) and we are so glad we have been able to—even on a couple of days.

Blessings to all of you

, Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Off to Alaska

2011-06-16T09:58:00.001-06:00

This time in Colorado went all too quickly (according to a tearful Jeri Anna-“but you just got here!”). We fit a lot in including a trip to the North Pole!

The world’s highest (by elevation) ferris wheel. Making it to the Willkerson Pass Visitor Center before closing we got to visit with our friends there and hike around the point. We have missed it.

Then it was off to Alaska

We were met at the Anchorage airport by the Great Alaskan Adventures van. They took up to pick up our RV and have an orientation training. (Bill said he was certainly glad he already had some experience before he set out on the Alaskan Highways in our RV). We spent the first night there on the lot (as did several others), so we could check out a few things before we were off into the Wilds. It was just a short walk to the store for supplies, but a cab brought us back.

One things we can’t imagine getting used to, is the Midnight Sun! As I write, it is about 11:30 pm and the skies are barely starting to darken a little-maybe! It looks like late afternoon.

We are looking forward to this Great Alaskan Adventure.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill & LInda

Celebrating the Journey, 2011

2011-06-13T21:13:00.001-06:00

June 10, We set off for where our journey may take us this year and are praying for an uneventful season, so to speak. We are thankful that Kyndall is doing well.

As we travel, looking back on our past journaling blogs is a great memory jogger for us. The older we get, the more the years seem to melt together (imagine that). I see we left very close to the same time last year, going through Cuba & Columbia.

To start this season, we met the Van Eatons for supper and some serious kickball at Bea-Ma’s in Cuba before we came home and finished packing the big rig. The next day, we met Bill’s sister in Wichita before we drove off into the sunset. Lots of other campers had the same idea we did, camping in that Walmart parking lot. There are definitely some advantages—like going in to shop for what we forgot (no wonder they like us to park there), a nice lit lot, and a place to walk.

Next morning, we were driving across Kansas –the amber waves of grain were really beautiful. Setting up camp in Denver, we couldn’t wait to see the Nixons. So glad we made it for Dance Recital time (intermission fun).

Later they all joined us at the camper to try out the new bed/dinette PaPa added over the winter. Almost all slept just fine. We hope to be soon off to somewhere in Alaska.

Sharing with you – Psalm 121:1,2 I will lift up my eyes to the hills, From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth.

Thank you for checking in with us, Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Not Easy

2010-10-08T22:35:00.001-06:00

It was certainly not easy to leave, but it is really easy to see how well Kyndall is doing, and see how God has worked in all our lives. After tears all around we told the girls and Kyndall & Jerry good-bye. It has been almost 3 months. She received encouraging news from her cardiologist on Monday, who has consulted with about 19 others in his group.We are so thankful that things look good, but it is still so hard to leave. Jeri Anna wanted to know “why do we have to go back to Missouri?”

We pulled out of Camp pretty uneventfully—I told Bill I think he is getting better at this, and were on the road. In stead of going right back to Missouri, we decided to take our time coming home, and unwind with a fall train trip. Speaking of unwinding, we happened upon a mineral hot springs this afternoon and really enjoyed the hot waters in the shadows of the San Juans. Hot springs are always interesting, or should I say quirky—they are all different and you never know what to expect.

The Cumbres & Toltec Railroad is the longest and highest narrow gauge railroad in the country,and a trip we have talked about for a few years. As we switch-backed between Colorado and New Mexico several times, the views were spectacular. It is amazing how many train rides there still are in the U.S.—and many right in Colorado.

On to Taos, New Mexico, we visited a Pueblo and drove the Enchanted Circle—more beautiful country.

We have seen some amazing sights this season—the Grand Canyon, Maroon Bells, fall in the Sangre de Cristos, but nothing as wonderful as seeing 3 little girls climb up to greet their Mommy with hugs and kisses, to see that all was well.

Looking forward to being home,

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

A time for all Seasons

2010-10-02T08:55:00.001-06:00

The aspen leaves are coming down—pretty on our hikes, and that is usually a sign to start coming home to enjoy the season in Missouri. It has been a season like no other, with our dear friend Ken, and then Jerry’s mother passing on, and then Kyndall’s heart attack. Even though we don’t understand, how thankful we are that Kyndall is alive and well and healing every day. How wonderful it has been to see her beautiful smile return.

My sister Debbie and Mike are here on vacation and had to see for themselves that K is on the mend.

While here we had lots of fun—some hikes and sight-seeing and playing with the girls, and viewing the King Tut exhibit in Denver.

Our good friends from the Bells had us over for dinner-how nice to have special friends here in Colorado. Already making plans to meet again.

K & J have friends with season tickets to the Bronco games, and we were invited to use them last Sunday. Even though they were “out-Manned” (as the newspaper said—they played the Indianapolis Colts) it was an exciting time—from the parachutists’ landing, to the jet fly-over, and of course the game!

So it hasn’t been all work and no play.

We’ve been blessed to be right here in the midst of family life with Kyndall and Jerry and Anna Laura, Alexandria, and Jeri Anna. How great it’s been to hear the excitement of the day when we pick them up at school. I’ve enjoyed helping with some of the homework and Bill has timed some math tests! Getting to watch our budding ballerinas in class is so much fun.

It will be very hard to leave this time. But they are ready, and we are only a flight away. We admit we’re tired and it will be good to do laundry for 2 in stead of 7—for a while. And clean up the kitchen for 2 in stead of 85 like here at Camp Id-Ra-Ha-Je. Also, it’s time to catch up with J & M & R & C and Liberty in Columbia, and make it there for a football game.

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Autumn in Colorado

2010-09-21T14:34:00.001-06:00

Even though we have heard it is the driest on record here in Colorado, it is still a glorious fall. September is always one of our favorite months. We traveled a couple days to leaf peep when Sharon and Mike were here. And we took the waters, as they say, at the Mt. Princeton Hot Springs.

Our days are full whether at Camp or at Kyndall & Jerry’s.

Many school groups are here at Id-Ra-Ha-Je to fulfill their outdoor education obligation. They all seem to be enjoying camp and the variety of mountain lab classes. We fill in where we can, working in the kitchen, office, or teaching classes. Bill is enjoying teaching archery classes (!), and as far as I can tell is doing pretty well. (Even so, he says he was right in not choosing teaching as a career.)

It was great to be a part of Forest Clean-Up Days, but we can sure tell we are not as young as we used to be! Cutting and clearing the dead & dry trees provides a source of energy for Camp all winter, clenrs up the forest, and gives everyone a lot of exercise.

I can tell you the women work just as hard as the men.

Meanwhile back at the Nixons, we are having a great time playing hard and working hard. This weekend after church we took the kids paddle-boating on Evergreen Lake. Kyndall had so much energy she went to a Broncos game with a friend!

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

It’s Fun to stay at the YMCA

2010-09-08T20:31:00.001-06:00

We aren’t working all the time (although we are often pretty tired.) Spending Labor Day weekend at the YMCA of the Rockies, was a lot of fun and some good medicine for us all. From putt-putting to hiking around Lily Lake, to picnicking & just playing, we fit a lot in a few days.

Bill and I also enjoyed getting together for dinner with some of our fellow volunteer friends from last year.

One of the highlights of our stay was painting our rock for the cairn outside the Craft Center. We chose the purple of Faith from the Y characteristics of Caring, Responsibility, Respect, Honesty, and Faith.

And, oh yes, with Daddy Jerry’s help the girls designed and decorated (lots of glitter and feathers here) a prize winning zucchini car! This was one an unusual event at the Boulder Festival. Now that was fun!

It’s been nice to have some time to spend and get to know our little girls better. When else would Bill and take time to just sit and play Chutes & Ladders with Jeri Anna (now that her sisters are in school)?

We’ll miss the fresh fruits & veggies from Kyndall’s Farmers’ Co-op. Lots of work “putting up” vegetables on Thursdays, but they’ve been yummy.

Back at Camp, Bill is getting really good at the big “Hobart”, as Kyndall calls it from her kitchikomo days (big dishwasher). We like serving and working in the kitchen—even for groups of middle schoolers!

Still Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

He fought the good fight

2010-08-20T20:27:00.001-06:00

We have learned that our very dear friend has passed on into glory. How the angels are rejoicing, to have Ken Estes with them in Heaven. We can only imagine how great he feels now, so free of pain, and greeting so many friends and family.

Hebrews 12:1&2 remind us so much of Ken . . .run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus… Ken always did just that as an example for us all.

We love you Ken, Rest in the arms of Jesus, Bill and Linda

Camp Id-Ra-Ha-Je

2010-08-20T18:01:00.001-06:00

Greetings from Camp Id-Ra-Ha-Je—name comes from the hymn ”I’d Rather Have Jesus”. This is our home base for a while. We are excited to be volunteering and serving in this way. As the sign reads at the entrance, Jesus Christ is honored here.

And we are in Bailey, CO, just about 20 minutes from the Nixon house. We were glad to be here for two grand-daughters’ birthdays yesterday. As Alexandria reminded us several times, we weren’t here for it last year. We celebrated at Water World. (A good place to be on a rare 100 deg. day in Denver.)

Being closer to Wilkerson Pass, we had a good time getting together with the gang there. It was nice to be back at our camping spot, but Bill was disappointed to see the Colorado Blue Spruces we planted did not survive the winters.

We appreciate your calls and cards and emails. Kyndall is much stronger and going to Rehab 3 times a week. In many ways she is back to her old self. Thank you for all the prayers for our family during this time.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Kyndall

2010-08-05T21:29:00.001-06:00

Kyndall’s 3 precious reasons to get well (taken a week after).

As most of you who would read our blog know by now, our 36 year old daughter had a heart attack. It was sudden and of course unexpected in a healthy young mom. Called Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection, one of her friends sent her a link that was on the Denver news this morning: It is so rare that since 1931, there have only been 300 documented cases in the world. We always knew she was pretty special. She is now learning to deal with her new self.

Each girl sent something to her that first day at the hospital, by sweet friend Jen who was taking care of the girls. Anna Laura, their oldest, sent a note that said “For I am the Lord who heals you. Exodus 15:26” Looking it up we found the last part of the verse says that and we are certainly trusting in it. Anna Laura told us later she remembered it from a box of bandaids—special ones to be sure.

Bill has been working at Maroon Bells and I have been staying here doing things with Kyndall and the girls. We are finishing up our time in the White River Forest while they are getting someone to take our place. It has been a wonderful place to be—just too far from cell coverage, and we hope to return another year.

Please keep Kyndall, Jerry, Anna Laura, Alexandria, Jeri Anna, and us in your prayers. Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Maroon Bells Volunteers

2010-08-05T20:04:00.000-06:00

So many

2010-07-09T21:54:00.001-06:00

So many different things to experience—Wow!

In our job we set up a sort of kiosk of maps and information on the beginning of the trail to Maroon Lake. There we meet and welcome hikers, climbers, day-trippers, and those just out to see the sights. We give as much information as we can and are learning every day. Also giving out Smokey stuff to the kids is fun. How great to see families here for the first time and big extended families with the grandparents showing it to their grands. Bill also spends a lot of the time doing some directing on the parking lot and radioing in to the office. Mostly, though we visit and talk about hikes with lots of interesting people.

Talk about interesting people, we enjoyed visiting with one man in a tie on the trail (not your usual attire) and then met him in town at the Aspen Art Fair. Not often that we would meet a fine arts dealer from England, whose family he told us, has been in the business since 1752! And the person Bill talked to leaving to climb at 2:00 AM! We can’t imagine, but evidently it’s not that uncommon. And the man I met who was here to lecture for the Ideas Festival right in the amphitheater here in the beauty of the Bells.

One of the perks of the job- -This morning Bill was working and helped park several Mercedes here sponsoring Breakfast at the Bells for one of the lectures of the Ideas Festival, a big national conference to exchange ideas (I guess you could say). Here for it, Bill Clinton, Ruth Bader-Ginsburg and on and on.

We learn so much from our co-camp hosts. They have returned here for years (who wouldn’t want to) and are really showing us the ropes. This morning Billie and I went to a dress rehearsal for tonight’s concert with world renowned violinist Joshua Bell.It was wonderful. Everyone sits out on the lawn around the tent—in the beauty of the mountains listening to the orchestra. (Aspen’s Music Festival is every year in July and August).

Bill and I did a difficult hike today. Actually it was a great hike up toward Independence Pass and it is called difficult because it goes along Difficult Creek.

What a day! That’s all for now. Back to the forest.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Happy Birthday America

2010-07-06T17:42:00.001-06:00

Here is the beautiful slice of paradise where we are camped this year.

What do Bill Clinton, Barbra Streisand, Bill Gates, the Nixons and a host of others have in common? They all spent some of their 4th in this beautiful place. It is easy to see why. There really isn’t any place like it.

On one of our first great hikes, the Maroon Creek Trail, we couldn’t believe the fields of columbine.

We have eased into our new jobs with the help of our fellow camp hosts and the great staff of the US Forest Service here in Aspen.

Bill driving the “Mule.”

First day on the job, we help build the float for the 4th of July Parade!

Lots of Happy Birthday America fun:

We are daily reminded of our blessings and pray that you are, too.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill & Linda

The Beauty of This Place

2010-07-01T21:21:00.001-06:00

Arriving at Maroon Bells in the White River National Forest, we are thinking our 30 days here might not be enough to experience the beauty of this place. But we will do our best to appreciate it while we are here.

Never knowing what we are in for as far as the camping spot or the job is part of the adventure. Bill was happy that pulling in the 5th wheel and setting it up turned out to be an easy part of the adventure. As he worked outside and I set up house-keeping inside, we were both drawn to the mountains and the breath-taking scenery around us. We (and many others) think it truly is one of the most beautiful spots in the world—and we are home here! Right outside our window was the beautiful columbine.

On the road up we saw a sign “Marmot Crossing” and wondered about that. Sure enough we were greeted by a mommy and her babies. We soon learned about some other animals here that are not nearly as cute. Bill wondered about the wire and rocks set up all around the bottom of cars. Our neighbors told us the porcupines are real pests, eating through most anything they can find, like the wires underneath cars! Bill got our roll of chicken wire and he is ready for them.

Going to the headquarters to find out about our uniforms and work, we found first things first—there was a BBQ party tonight. It was at the lovely Aspen home of our Ranger/volunteer coordinator. We met so many interesting people—most young, some our age, but all with such an energy. As one of the regular volunteers told me, it is not only that we are living in such a beautiful place, but we have all that exciting Aspen has to offer. We are excited about our month here.

May God Bless each of you and Happy 4th of July

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

We Gather at the Grand Canyon

2010-06-29T21:07:00.001-06:00

From California, Colorado, & Missouri we gathered for a family vacation at the Grand Canyon (missed you J&M&R&C).

What a grand time we had! Some had been before and some were experiencing it for the first time. The changing light and shadows and the vastness of it all is awe-inspiring.

Much different for us than our hike down to Phantom Ranch in 2000. (that was with our young-marrieds and no grand-children!)

So fun to watch the kids eyes get big as they looked over (and we all held on to them), and then they were off to play with the cousins.

A-hiking we all went, short but fun for all. Here we come Bright Angel Trail!

Our stop at The Watchtower was so interesting. We enjoyed learning that it was a re-creation of many such towers found scattered over the Southwest. It is really an amazing record of ancient Indian life. And the kids liked running up and down and around.

As we remembered, you hear many languages when hiking the rim. What a melting pot! You know you’re not in Kansas anymore when in the cafe, you hear more cheers for Argentina than Mexico in the World Cup game

Celebrating 2 birthdays added to our fun and games.

Happy Birthday Jerry and Carol

Sunday morning services in the National Parks are always a special worship experience. Being with family on the rim of the Grand Canyon was a blessing we will always remember.

CANYON DE CHELLY

As we went our separate ways, Bill and I travelled on to Canyon De Chelly National Monument where we saw incredible ancient ruins of the Anasazi. Research has shown there were up to 60 rooms and 4 kivas.

We hiked into the Canyon—and back. Coming back through Moab, it was just 100 deg. at 6:00 PM!

Another interesting home on the road to Moab, was the Hole in the Rock. We stopped to see what it was all about and toured the home that was built in the 30s as a home and a cafe for travelers. A unique tourist attraction to say the least.

Thinking of you all

Celebrating the Journey, Bill & Linda

Vegas

2010-06-26T00:00:00.001-06:00

You know the saying “What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas…” Suffice it to say, the sight of all of us pulling off streams of toilet paper, will be one that won’t soon leave our memories.

Good friends having fun!

Celebrating the Journey, Bill & Linda

Desert Beauty

2010-06-25T23:59:00.001-06:00

It would be difficult to describe all the desert beauty we have seen as we drove and hiked. Driving through the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument (that’s a mouthful!) we saw so much beauty. Maneuvering those roads after dark as we had planned would have been hairy with sheer drop-offs on each side, so we were glad we didn’t—and we would have missed the views. On our hike through the Petrified Forest at Escalante, were leaned a little about how they become petrified: the trees died but didn’t decay, were covered by silt and volcanic ash and over time turned to stone—amazing!

Bryce Canyon (my favorite) We returned to see the hoodoos (fantastic rock formations) and hiked to Sunset Point for a picnic

Zion National Park (Bill’s favorite) named by Mormon settlers, Zion means a place of quiet sanctuary. It’s not quiet now, but it is easy to see how it was. So many unbelievable sights and formations created by God, and then the unbelievable feats of engineering created by man (and of course ultimately God). The Zion Mt. Carmel Hwy. with its steep tunnels and gallery “windows” that were blasted through the rocks!

Celebrating the Journey (6/22) Bill and Linda

On to Las Vegas!

UTAH

2010-06-21T23:02:00.001-06:00

God has given us some truly breath-taking views to enjoy here in the Canyonlands area of Utah. Bill told me to hurry and get some of this down in our journal, or he will forget (I know that for sure.)

Arches National Park– The red rocks scenery is amazing. After learning some about the geology and watching the film to get oriented, we drove the loop road, oohing and ahhing as we walked some great HOT hikes, like to the Delicate Arch & the Fiery Furnace Viewpoint.

Dead Horse Point - called because the high mesa was used as a corral for wild horses--the land would be fenced off with branches. For unknown reasons, once, many horses were left there to die of thirst, within view of the Colorado River below.

Canyonlands N.P.- The Island in the Sky (which is a high mesa much like an island), where you gaze on the majesty of the canyons and rivers below—the Upheaval Dome area (different theories as to how-maybe a meteor?) and the great Mesa Arch.

Capitol Reef National Park – so named for the reef like cliffs of white sandstone that have eroded & look sort of like the dome of the US Capitol.

It was amazing to see ancient Indian petroglyphs right off the highway.

The vast views before you are always changing as the sun moves and different shadows are cast. One beautiful stop was our Father’s Day early morning breakfast looking over the quietness of the Canyon.

The small little resort/adventure town of Moab is a place for restaurants, shops, etc and oh yes ice cream everywhere. Fact: Utahans consume more ice cream per capita than any other state. (why-? heat maybe).

We always look for the “Must Sees” in our travel books, so our tips would definitely include the Canyonlands by Night dinner & boat cruise down the Colorado River. This is so unique that I can’t think of anything at all like it. Hard to describe, but was advertised as an “old time sound and light show choreographed with music and narration. What a beautiful night—just as our boat turned round a bend, the moon came out over the great canyon rocks and “Moonlight on the Colorado” (by the Sons of the Pioneers) began playing!!! It may sound like too much, but I can tell you it was absolutely spectacular.

The Red Cliffs Lodge on the scenic River Road was another not to be missed stop. This ranch/vineyard was in a family for 7 generations. We enjoyed dinner on the long deck surrounded by 2000 foot red cliffs and some really wide-open skies. There is also a wonderful movie history museum as many films, movies and commercials have been made there including Rio Grande (and many other John Wayne films), The Greatest Story Ever Told, and of course the Marlboro man commercials.

Bill and John

Detour

Lest you think it has all been good, let me tell you about a detour that Bill would have rather not taken. Trouble with the Turbo Booster on the truck and we spent a couple days in Price, UT that we hadn’t planned on. It was actually a nice little town where because of schedule changes, we enjoyed a car show, outdoor movie in the grass, and their Relay for Life. Nice people, much like our town. The truck is working but without the camper which we have parked for a week while we journey on to meet friends and family.

Glad to hear from some of you. Our prayers are with you.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Celebrating the Journey, Spring 2010

2010-06-17T22:37:00.001-06:00

After many trips back and forth from the house to the RV, we embark June12 on our spring/summer/fall season of travel (and of course work). Lots of travel in the plans for this year.

Cuba, MO was our first stop to visit with Mother.

Then we were on to Columbia for Clay’s Show-Me soccer, Reagan’s dance class, and swimming and camping out with us (in hot & humid Missouri).

The campground proved to be an expensive one as Bill was able to rip the roof when he met with some big mean overhanging tree branches!

Back on the highway through Kansas, we stopped for camp in Goodland. Fact you may not know: It is one of the top sunflower producers in the nation. As commemoration and promotion, there is a giant reproduction of Van Gogh’s sunflower painting right off Hwy. 70 (was a local project of Rotary, International, J).

We arrived in Colorful Colorado and were soon welcomed by the American Pronghorns we always see in the open prairie.

Kyndall and girls and their company from Hawaii joined us at a family favorite pizza place. Some of you remember little Canyon and her terrible accident as we asked for prayers for her last year. We are happy to report that she is doing great! Praise the Lord for her healing. We enjoyed time with her & the girls while K & Jen hiked a 14er. Way to go, Mommies!

Here we are having fun at Tiny Town.

We are thinking of and praying for our friends and family and what is going on in your lives. May God be with you all.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Whatever

2010-02-13T20:40:00.001-07:00

Whatever we do here, it seems we have a lot of fun. Mardi Gras came early to Pioneer Camp. The sun came out for the parade—decorated bikes, golf carts, and dogs—lots of beads and candy were thrown.

We are happy to see and be a part of all God has created. The variety of sea life, the beauty of the birds, the shells & sounds of the waves, the beach that is always different--wonderful!

There is something unique about Port Aransas. Whatever it is, as the island song goes, it doesn’t take long for the sand to get in your veins. So we hope to return to this strip of sand in the Gulf of Mexico.

Happy Valentine’s Day, 2010

Celebrating the Journey on our way home, Bill and Linda

Fun and Fish

2010-02-11T20:13:00.001-07:00

Our next film at the Institute was great—Planet Earth and Seasonal Forests. We enjoyed it with friends we met last year from my Mom’s hometown (!)

It doesn’t take long to learn where all the happenings are. On Wednesdays, it’s the Big Fisherman,and a fish or chicken liver lunch for $2.25 and $1 Marg. while you wait. We knew there would be a crowd by the wait for the ferry. We had fun there with 2 other couples from Missouri.

With an interpretive center, and an observation tower, the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge was a great place to spend an afternoon. We took the drive and some short hikes and saw some Whooping Cranes and the pink Spoonbills. Bill was excited to see a wild hog in the wild (not sure if it was a Razorback).

I was not too excited to be so close to some alligators.

Celebrating the Journey, God Bless You, Linda and Bill

Once in a lifetime

2010-02-08T22:17:00.001-07:00

An Amazing morning! We started out for our walk on the beach and said “we probably don’t need our camera.” Wrong! A lady walking by said, “Have you seen the whale?” Bill ran back to get the camera and we were off on our bikes.

Right down the beach was a beached whale—unbelievable! It’s hard to describe it all, but it was a once in a lifetime experience.

It was something to watch the efforts of the workers trying to get it roped and pulled up to where they’d dug a huge hole in the sand to bury it. I don’t know the names of all the equipment, but they used 3 vehicles. One was high and huge, made for this kind of thing. Getting the rope to hold was difficult and it was an amazing feat to finally get it. A crowd had gathered to watch, of course, something to see, but also sad. We don’t know details yet about how or why it died. The other amazing thing is that this happened right down the beach from the University of Texas Marine Institute. It could have been anywhere down Padre, but was right here where the Marine Biologists, Director of the Animal Rehabilitation Keep (ARK), and research students, could help and gather data. What a morning!

The U.T.M.I. has great exhibits and educational program and films. We go when it’s rainy, like other other day. We went to an afternoon film that was pretty interesting, until we realized it was all about evolution. We soon lost interest and left—will try the next one about birds or sharks.

Celebrating the Journey, and all God has made.

God bless you, Linda & Bill

Interesting

2010-02-07T20:43:00.001-07:00

One of the most interesting parts of traveling are the people you meet along the way. It’s been great getting to know so many Winter Texan friends---from “up north” ,and lots from Missouri. We shared dinner with one interesting man from Canada, who travelled with 3 rules: no interstates, never travel the same road twice, and no plan for the day. (That restaurant’s dinner pricing was interesting, too. 5:00 pm-$5.00, 5:30, $5.50, you get the picture.) We enjoyed our visit with a sports photographer, who took pictures of the cranes (somewhat better than ours)and we may see his work in angler magazines.

Bill enjoyed the camaraderie of the Super Bowl party at the Camp Community Center. I even won a $25 prize (might be hard to spend at Lovett’s Bar & Grill). Everyone sure gets into it. At church this morning, it may have just been a subtle hint as they played “When the Saints Go Marchin’ In.” :) We took communion today and you’re right Marianne, how wonderful to be reminded of all God has done for us.

Celebrating the Journey, God Bless You on this Lord’s Day, Linda & Bill

Sunny once again

2010-02-06T21:11:00.001-07:00

We are all so glad to welcome the sun again, and are outside most of the time. Appreciating the beach and marine life is easy when its all around you. Here are some of the day’s catch:

Bill didn’t do as well with, but enjoyed the challenge of surf fishing.

The Birding Boat Tour we took was amazing. There are so many birds that winter here and the Captain of the Skimmer got us really close to lots. The world population of Whooping Cranes is about 500, and we saw about 12! The beautiful white birds are 4 or 5 feet tall with a wing span of about 7 feet.

We also saw osprey, great blue heron, terns, skimmers, white pelicans, and my favorite- the Roseate Spoonbill.

From sunny Texas, Celebrating the Journey, God bless you, Linda & Bill

Rain, Rain go Away

2010-02-03T21:54:00.001-07:00

Corpus Christi and Mustang Island sure are getting their share of rain. So we’re singing “rain, rain go away, come again some other day”—so we can go out and play. Actually everybody does play a lot. Where else can you see more people our age (& older) riding bikes, flying kites, and playing games?! On a day like today though, it’s aerobics, line dancing, bingo, and crafts.

On one of those rainy days we got together with over 100 at Missouri/Kansas day. Most states have their day. We even saw someone we knew from Mt. Vernon.

At dinner with a couple we met from CO, Elvis showed up in the building. It was hokie, but fun.

Our Pioneer RV Camp Luau:

Celebrating the Journey :), May God Bless you, Linda and Bill

South Texas

2010-01-31T21:49:00.001-07:00

Chilly and windy, but sunny. Like the local Jimmy Buffet-like said, they’ll put up with this in January, but come February it better be gone, or we’re off to Belize:)

Boca Chica is the furthest point in south Texas (looks to be pretty straight across the Gulf from Key West). Driving on the beach there, we went as far as we could til we reached the Rio Grand, where it flows into the ocean. How amazing to look right across the river at those people fishing in Mexico! The area was stark but beautiful and the birds and shells were amazing.

Our Border Patrol is hard at work. We went through a couple of inspections and the drug dog checked out our truck (and we had only been close to the border).

Buying oranges & grapefruit from the Rio Grande Valley is a Winter Texan thing to do, so we bought ours—along with some fun, cheapo stuff right at the bridge on the US/MX border.

God Bless You and have a good start to your week. Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

A Slice of Texas

2010-01-30T22:02:00.001-07:00

It looks like good weather for ducks out there. Many of them come down here to winter, and I think they like rainy winter days for a change. Not complaining though, as we just saw the weather back home.

Speaking of waterfowl, we saw lots on our walk through Charlie’s Pasture Nature Preserve. We were excited to finally see the pink of the Roseate Spoonbills as they came to roost for the night--what beautiful birds!

On into The Valley where it is more sub-tropical. (J & K,South Padre is where we came on spring break when you were in high school.)

Lots of Winter Texas here. We danced the night away (until 8:30) to 60s music with all the other retired folks.

And on to the Kite Festival. This was unlike anything we had ever seen—kite teams flying their kites to music in 40 mph hour winds!

Visiting the Port Isabel Lighthouse and the sunset over the Laguna Madre were beautiful..

How we enjoy what God has made!

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

P.A. Dine-Around

2010-01-27T21:00:00.001-07:00

We “dined around” here before, and it’s lots of fun—driving & walking around to 20 or so places open for a Winter Texan evening. What a variety—they offered samples of everything from crabcakes to shrimp boil to chips & sangria and hot dogs & champagne (really!) and key lime cheesecake. Wow- Bill’s stomach stood the test. It is really a great way to get to know the island.

I’m writing and watching the big tankers and ships from all over the world as they line up at sea to enter the channel. The one passing as I write is from Monrovia. Some watchers get so good they can tell by their flags. And over by the marina Bill catches a flounder- one of his favorites because he used to catch these with his Dad when they fished in Gulfport.

After getting Bill to Aerobics with me this morning (!) we returned to a birding site. It is so interesting and the birders are always so willing to share. Among others today we saw a Least Grebe, Perigrine Falcon, and Cinnamon Teal—beautiful.

Celebrating the Journey, God Bless all of you, Linda & Bill

Between 35 & 36

2010-01-25T20:28:00.001-07:00

While we were in S.A. with some BSF friends:

Between 35 & 35: Not really our address here on the island, which is officially Grammy & PaPa’s Place, as we received our sign from the kids at Christmas.

But 35 & 36 markers are the way to find our way back from the beach, particularly helpful for someone like me who is not good with that sort of thing.

In just a couple of days we’ve ridden our bikes on the beach, joined in on the Island Home Tour, and saw Greater Tuna at the local community theater—whew! Today after church, I walked around the harbor and about got blown off the Texas map, while Bill fished (not sure how he accomplished that in those knots-maybe I shouldn’t say that he didn’t!)

What a great spot is our RV Resort and just a short walk from our camper over the dunes to the ocean. (To give an idea of these campgrounds, there are prob. 500 sites!) There is so much to see and do. We joined and met several other winter Texans tonight for an ice cream social and learned a new card games (Pass Your Trash!?) And it’s a great place to get some help in figuring out a problem with you elec., sewer,etc., as he found out.

We are thinking of and praying for you, our family and friends.

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Blogging in 2010

2010-01-20T19:48:00.001-07:00

On the Road Again, doesn’t sound too original, but we did just pass a sign that said we’re in Willie Nelson country. And it does seem to fit, when we are heading out with the camper. After some b-r-r-r-r-r cold weather in Missouri, we are really appreciating sun in the 70s.

Camping outside McKinney, TX we got together with some of our YMCA friends for a great dinner & visit. Driving through Texas, we are again reminded of the slogan, “Texas is a whole ‘nother country.” What a state of variety and hospitality. Sunday morning our camper neighbor invited and took us to church (so we didn’t have to drive the big rig looking). Small world (in a big state), we even met some past BSFers there when we told them where we were headed.

It’s great to be back at Bible Study Fellowship Headquarters—what a blessing this place is, and great to be around so many believers all learning to go out and share. We picked right back up in the kitchen (up to fix breakfast at 5:30 still is not easy) and Press Room.

Hope to journal about our stay in the Lone Star State.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

From South Dakota

2009-10-06T21:09:00.001-06:00

A wonderful fall day to visit one of our nation’s best symbols.

And a good day tomorrow to get out ahead of a winter storm.

Home Sweet Home Monday, Oct. 5!

Remembering Some. . .

2009-10-02T23:12:00.001-06:00

So many things we will remember from this season. We feel blessed to be able to do what we are doing.

Those we’ve worked with:

At the Y: Bill’s Hikemaster friends who taught us about nature in the RMNP; the many volunteers both young and old who are now friends; our special caring Vol. Coordinator getting married this weekend on the Y grounds. At Earthquake Lake: a one of a kind “boss”, our very own wealth of Yellowstone information:Jon, and a special younger friend who taught us much. At the Ranch: the kindness and generosity of the caretakers of the mules and their ranch.

Other friends and acquaintances we’ve met along the way:

Those we’ve hiked and laughed with as we encouraged each other along the trail; mealtime at the Pondo where we always talked to someone new—couples and singles, so interesting-some traveling the country and beyond to make a difference, and 20 somethings from all over the world, like the one young solo traveler from England “greyhounding it”.

And the many stories of tragedy and of caring by the survivors and families at the 50th Commemoration of the 1959 Earthquake outside of Yellowstone. We were touched in ways we couldn’t imagine.

Family memories we’ve made:

A special birthday celebration for my 60th (you mean you came all the way out here for my birthday?), Grammy Bucks, Bill succeeding at more than a few secretive phone calls (where was I?), the Yellowstone Goofballs, and being able to be a part of what’s going on in their lives.

This beautiful world God has created:

The view of the Rockies in the mornings as we went to work—ever the same and always different; the beauty and mystery that is Yellowstone; the double rainbow that I saw with Kyndall, and the purple mountain majesties all around us.

Now we are on our way home by way of another National Park. As we watched the last of the PBS special tonight, we would have to agree that the National Parks are truly One of America’s Best Ideas. At Mt. Rushmore we will see “Teddy Bear Roosevelt hiding” as Jeri Anna said when they saw it this summer. And as the snow was beginning to fall as we arrived in South Dakota, and the wind blew a window out of the camper, we think it is time to go home!

May God Bless each of you and we hope to see you soon,

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

A Time to Leave

2009-10-01T21:27:00.001-06:00

One month here at the YMCA of the Rockies has gone all to quickly, but as it says in Ecclesiastes, there is a time for everything.

Our last week has been full with some special “stuff”.

Snow Mt. Ranch is the sister camp to the Y here and we drove over Trail Ridge to spend the night there and check it out.

What a gorgeous drive and such beautiful scenes of fall color-we even saw 2 rainbows!

We even think we might like to come back to Snow Mountain in the winter. There are lots of great hikes there.The area has lost much of its beauty due the pine beetle in the lodgepoles. But the forest will return.

I especially like how they opened up the shop late for us—how fun to have a store all to yourself! Bill especially liked hearing the story of a mountain lion attack (on a deer) while we were there. I am glad I didn’t hear it.

On Sunday Watoto, Children’s Choir of Uganda performed a Christian concert in Hyde Chapel. These beautiful children sang & danced & drummed. The orphans (ages 6-14) shared their stories and how their lives have been changed. Watoto raises funds through donations to help give them a better life. As one little boy told the audience We know Jesus loves us and he smiled as he raised his arm and said, “Life is Good!” What an example for all of us. I even got to write up an article about Watoto’s visit for the Y Newsletter.

People come and go at such different times, so as they say, you don’t know who’s on 1st! We are saying our good-byes and hope-to-see-yous as we see people. And we are already looking forward to next year.

But now for the fun part, we have to pack up and move it all to the camper (hoping it fits), clean the room, turn in the towels and bedding (back to washing our own at home), job evaluations (haven’t had that in a while), and finishing up projects at the craft shop.

One of our favorite verses will be a happy reminder of our time here, as we read it on a plaque in view of the mountains each morning:

Ps. 121:1&2 I will lift up mine eyes unto the mountains from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth.

May God be with each of you,

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

With the Nixons

2009-09-26T21:14:00.001-06:00

We’re so glad we’ve been able to be close to the girls here in Colorado this summer. On a beautiful Saturday, they drove an hour and we drove an hour and met at Miller’s Farm. What a great idea this farmer had! Paying $15 each, we all got 6 bags to fill with vegetables. On arriving we loaded up on a big hay wagon and rode out to the fields. There we picked, dug and pulled vegetables from the ground. The girls loved it –we all did! Then they loaded up the wagons with squash, green beans, onions, celery (I’d never seen it grown), lots of carrots, potatoes, & more). The pictures speak for themselves.

We got to see goats, horses, frogs and turtles, but this was no ordinary farm. After a picnic we played and bounced and ran. A fun fall day for all.

While K was at the M.O.P.S. convention, we went to Conifer to have fun helping Jerry out with the girls.

(Having fun at the library after school.)

Back to finish out our month at the Y now.

Missing seeing our other grands, we are looking forward to seeing R & C and their mommy and daddy In Columbia, where we’ll be soon be heading. And Bill’s excited too about some football game there (Go Tigers!)

May God Bless each of you,

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Rocky Mt. National Park

2009-09-25T20:40:00.001-06:00

The Park has over 350 miles of hiking trails. We love the hikes here and decided we prefer these trails to any we’ve done. I’m glad for the variety we’ve been able to fit in, but there’s always more. And much more challenging ones.

Although, after this morning’s beautiful snow, being the fair-weather hikers that we are, we won’t be doing as many.

(On my way to work at the library in the background.)

It became a national park in 1915 and we’re grateful to naturalist Enos Mills who worked for years to create it and had the foresight to see it was a national treasure.

A few facts: Trail ridge Road in RMNP is the highest paved road in the US and is a spectacular drive. Mammals in the park include elk, deer, black bear, bighorn sheep, moose and mountain lion.

Long’s Peak is the highest summit in the Park (a 14er). Many people climb it each year, but it has also claimed many victims.It is a very sought after hiking destination, but one that calls for skill and lots of planning (often due to weather).

I’ll put in a commercial for a PBS documentary starting a 6-part series on Sept. 27. It is National Parks: America’s Best Idea. We got to see just a preview while here and are looking forward to the series.

May God Bless each of you.

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Guests

2009-09-14T22:31:00.001-06:00

After Sharon & Mike left, Kyndall, Jerry & girls arrived. They were excited to spend the weekend in Grammy & PaPa’s camper, just a mile down the road from the Y.

The YMCA of the Rockies is dedicated to providing time and place for families to be together—remembering what family is all about. We fit as much Y fun and activity as we could into a weekend.

Bird-banding was a great activity where we learned how they track birds and we actually got to see them band a tiny hummingbird.

There was lots of fun and giggles at mini-golf and roller skating (not Grammy & PaPa), but the wonderful new Arts & Crafts Center was the biggest hit.

We all went to Hyde Chapel for church. I had been looking forward to worshipping there together.

Showing them “Grammy’s Library” was a lot of fun. Hikemaster in training, PaPa took us on one of his hikes, and even Jeri Ann made it the 3miles.

And of course, we all had to hang around the Y-M-C-A statue.

We hope to ALL gather here for family fun again.

May God Bless each of you,

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Catching Up

2009-09-13T14:48:00.002-06:00

It seems our time is flying here a the Y and I know if I don't do some catching up on this journal, I will be sorry about later. And I have received a few comments like I am not checking, because you are not writing! So...

Working at the YMCA of the Rockies is like nothing we've every done, although it does remind us a little of our summer camp days. As I said before, the overall atmosphere of friendliness is so nice to work around. I am enjoying the library and Bill is enjoying the hiking program and getting out into the National Park.

They certainly treat their volunteers well--we go into the cafe anytime we want for tea, Coke, or coffee; 3 meals a day are ready & waiting (although buffets are NOT always a good thing); movies in town are 1/2 price, there is always something to do, and we meet someone new every day. Yes, we do have to work 3 days a week, but some of that is our hiking.

When Bill is working and I'm not, he signs me up for his hikes--it's great! On each hike there's usually a hikemaster and assistant (Bill), and then some hikers. Yesterday we hiked with a young newlywed couple from Spain. It was fun to see how excited she was when a few light snowflakes began to fall. (I was just excited that I did have my gloves.)

The mornings are almost always beautiful clear blue sky ones--the afternoons not so much. That's why those hikes start early. On one day, we combined hikes and were able to hike the "chain of lakes" (about 8 mi.), where we saw 4 mountain lakes and 1 waterfall along the way- What a day! A ranger shared an interesting fact with us. The scene we viewed at Mills Lake is what is on the Colorado quarter.

Salesman Bill has done some recruiting (not a surprise) for hikes and our new friend from Florida--elevation 15 feet she reminded us--enlivened our hike and she was thrilled to be out in the Park.

Besides the going-on at the Y, we're trying to take advantage of some of what Rocky Mt. National Park and the vacation town of Estes Park have to offer.

One of the most unusual events and one of a kind they say, is held here in Estes Park each fall. We went to the tatoo of the Long's Peak Scottish/Irish Highland Festival. To quote the paper, there were lots of pipers piping, drummers drumming, and brogues and kilts all over town. We heard the Pipes & Drums Band and the amazing sound of a band of bagpipes. I got chills when the emcee said Here come the Marines, and the Marine Corps Band marched in playing, with the flags at half-staff behind them for 9-11. There was beautiful Irish singing and we ended together with "Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory." Then, I think a lot of them went off for a wee dram, as they said.

Last night we met some friends for dinner and went with a group to the "Elk Talk" at the amphitheater. It is the rutting (or mating) season where the bull elk are gathering their harems. (This causes lots of elk jams in the Park as you can imagine.) Even as he spoke, we heard the haunting sounds of the bugling elk around us. They are everywhere and we even saw some on a gas station parking lot one night. They seem to know E.P. is their town.

What a wonbderful place to celebrate the Lord's Day as we did today! Hyde Chapel is in this beautiful mountain setting just a few steps from our dorm. Something about gazing out at the mountains during worship makes you feel closer to God.

May God bless each of you,

Celebrating the Journey from the Y of the Rockies, Linda & Bill

YMCA September

2009-09-03T23:35:00.001-06:00

     Leaving our August home in W. Yellowstone, we drove through the Teton National Park (we think they are the most beautiful mountains). What a fantastic Visitor Center there! Oh, the perks of having our home on wheels—we pulled right off the road, fixing and eating our lunch right on Jackson Lake in view of the Tetons.   Then, the not so good part, finding a parking space in Jackson Hole.

     It almost felt like home when we saw the “Entering Colorful Colorado” sign. This NW corner is known as the moose capital of Colorado and we were not disappointed, seeing those huge creatures right off the highway-close, but not too close.

     Storing the camper, we were off to Denver to pick up the girls at their new school and to take Jeri Anna to beginning dance.

While there we drove over to M Lazy C Ranch for a “Wilkerson Pass Alumni” gathering. 12 of us enjoyed catching up at the chuck-wagon evening get-together.

The YMCA of the Rockies

What a wonderful place to work (and play)! The mission of the YMCA of the Rockies is “putting Christian principles into practice through programs, staff, and facilities in an environment that builds healthy spirit, mind and body for all.” Each morning we put on our ID with the core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Faith. (Thank you for this daily reminder, Lord.)

We were excited to check in for our September job. We did all the “business stuff” getting our picture ID, volunteer material packet, and room assignment. We have only been here a few days and can already say it is the friendliest place we’ve ever worked.

Meeting so many other volunteers like ourselves has been a treat. They are doing everything from making beds to digging holes to checking in guests…I am working in the library (Yeah!) and Bill is in the programs & hiking dept.

A perk of my job is getting to read in slow time (there is lots now because vacation season is over). A perk of Bill’s is getting to go on great hikes. This morning he drove me and the other hikers up Fall River Road to our trailhead. We had a wonderful young HikeMaster that guided and taught us. She was very knowledgeable of Rocky Mountain National Park. For more hikes, I am looking forward to days when I am off and Bill is working..

So much to do here that you can be busy all the time if you want. Last night we went to the annual International Dinner. There are many “20-somethings” working here from all over the world. They shared their cultures through food, music, clothing—we tried foods from China, India, Senegal, Azerbijan, Senegal… what fun!

Bill’s sister Sharon and Mike are here for a few days so we are enjoying showing them around, and getting re-acquainted with the area ourselves. We had a nice evening at the Stanley.

Hope you all have a safe and fun end of summer weekend.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.

Celebrating the Journey with Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility, and Faith , Linda & Bill

Ending our time here

2009-08-24T22:37:00.001-06:00

Finishing the Grand Tour of Yellowstone, we feel we had a great sampling of all it has to offer and got to see most of what we wanted. We’ve been here a month, actually spending about a whole week in the Park, and there is enough as always that we have ideas for “next time.”

Taking one loooong last loop and going back to Old Faithful, we couldn’t believe how the crowds have thinned. We were hiking to see Morning Glory Pool, when a friendly “geyser gazer geezer” gave us a hot tip: Beehive Geyser will erupt soon-turn around! We obeyed and were so glad we did. What a magnificent geyser, and it erupted the same time as Old Faithful did right behind it (2 for the price of one).Wow! Then we hiked on to Morning Glory Pool, a colorful beautiful pool.

Up ahead there was a “bear jam”. We actually saw one stand straight up behind a car putting his big paws on it. Then he weaved through the jam and went on.Why did the Grizzly cross the road? Just to get to the other side away from tourists.

Going on to Norris Hot Springs, we soaked in the hot pool with sprinkles of cold over our heads. You never know what you are getting into going to those hot springs. And this was the quirkiest! But we sure enjoyed it. (Met interesting people there.)

There were times we went into the Park just relaxing and fishing (not enough for Bill the budding fly fisherman, I must say). Not sure why, but we saved our hardest hike for last. It was up to the top of Purple Mountain--too many switchbacks on that one. But we were rewarded at the top with a gorgeous view of the whole Madison area complete with erupting geysers!

We’ll miss this little town. It’s been fun—like last night after supper, we walked in 3 blocks to see a play. Local summer stock is always great. And then there is always a chance for shopping or ice cream!

We are saying our good-byes as the college interns are leaving. The other night we went “out on the town” with one 24 yr. old intern and our 70-something friend. The people we meet and work with are always one of the best parts of our jobs.

Bill is busy making and painting trail signs on his last work days doing manual work. I am helping out with the day to day at the Center. We continue to have some of the quake survivors and those who had been camping nearby, or in Yellowstone. So many have told me they would have been here. One lady stood there and said “I should have, I should have” and started crying. She said I didn’t know being here would affect me this way. I told her to take her time and she told me her family vacationed here every year and for some reason didn’t in 1959. there were so many stories of people who drove on to another campground or resort, and also those whose families or neighbors never came home.

Most seem to receive some closure just by being here. As we are leaving, we are thinking about them and how lives are changed so quickly.

What we enjoy most about our journey-- getting to meet so many nice people, especially the ones we have worked with. And being in and a part of this amazing world God has made for us. This morning in just an hour we saw a bald eagle, a Bison, Great Blue Heron, and a herd of elk, all in the wonder that is Yellowstone.

God Bless each one of you and your families.

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

50th Anniversary of the Earthquake

2009-08-18T23:43:00.001-06:00

It was a beautiful moonlit night, August 17, 1959, when one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded on the North American continent struck the Madison River Canyon.

The earthquake, which measured 7.5 on the Richter scale, triggered a massive landslide, which sent over 80 million tons of rock crashing down into the canyon, blocking the Madison River. The water backed up behind the rocks, forming the new Earthquake Lake. High velocity winds and a gigantic wall ;of water swept through the area.

In a matter of seconds, the earth’s crust had dropped 19 feet. The land under Hebgen Lake tilted upward; cabins on the north shore were immersed in water, while portions of the south shore lay high and dry. Water sloshed back and forth, while huge waves crested over Hebgen Dam at the western end of the lake. Although the dam cracked, it miraculously held.

Three sections of Highway 287 fell into the lake. As a result of the nights’ disaster, hundreds of people vacationing in the area were trapped. A total of 28 lives were lost.

This was taken from a brochure that we pass out at the Visitor Center.

We came to West Yellowstone and the Gallatin National Forest this summer to work at the Visitor Center to help with the events for the Commemoration of the earthquake. We had no idea what it would mean to us to be a part of this once-in-a-lifetime event. Words really do fail me, but it has been amazing, emotional, humbling, and also something we have very much being a part of.

There were many activities and events over the 4 day period. On one day Bill helped with guided walks to the Red Canyon Fault Scarp area and to Refuge Point. At the Center I helped Ashley with the kids’ program-Creating Faults with Playdough. We both enjoyed helping serve cookies, coffee and lemonade one day. There was a book-signing by author Doug Huigen, of Cataclysm: When Human Stories Meet Earth’s Faults, the latest book out on the happenings around the earthquake.

We enjoyed and learned so much from the speakers and programs. One speaker was David Bitner, who was a young Nat’l. Park lookout in 1959. He said he shared with his superiors that he had been feeling tremors up on his mountain, but they didn’t pay any attention to this 19 yr. old rookie. They sure believed him the next day. He spoke and showed slides about his packer, the guy who brought him everything he needed to survive as a lookout, even trimming his hair, he said. Our supervisor Jo Ann sure had a surprise for him and it was fun to be a part of it. He said they had lost contact over the years, and then there he was carrying in the pack bags full of supplies. What fun for all of us (and about 60 guests)to see the look on his face.

One of our favorite events was helping out with the Smokejumper event at Refuge Point. This is where many from the surrounding campgrounds and resorts gathered to help each other out. We heard stories of how they pooled what food they had and were able to serve some kind of breakfast. The next morning after the quake, Smokejumpers came in to asses the damage, help and drop supplies. Most of the 1959 Jumpers were there, and about 200 people got to see a re-enactment.

Much of the weekend was full of so many different emotions as people shared stories: One man told of the camping and fishing trip he had been on with his parents. When the earthquake hit, a huge boulder rolled down the mountain, going over a picnic table, killing his parents in their tent. He and his brothers were in a tent nearby and it was incredible to hear how this teenager handled it. There was the nurse who we heard had helped so many. One lady stood and told her thank you for all she had done for her parents. As a 12 year old, she had borrowed flour and did what she could in using flour to write an S.O.S. Her mother died in the hospital later. So many stories of people helping people in the complete confusion and in their pain.As we listened we began to get a sense of the comaradarie and oneness these people all felt. I guess it is like that anytime you experience such a disaster and life-changing event, as so many referred to it.

The last event was a Memorial Service at the Boulder. A local minister read the names from the bronze plaque of all who had lost their lives, often whole families. He read Psalm 121. It is one of our favorites, but will always have new meaning now. He ended by reminding us none of us know how many days God has given us, and we should live our lives living each one in service to Him.

May God Bless each of you as you live your lives in service to Him,

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Out & About

2009-08-14T23:30:00.001-06:00

Enjoying our work at the Center is one thing, but we enjoy our days out & about much more.

Some of our days’ off adventures:

     A hike to Fairy Falls (the girls would have loved it)—a pretty spray from one of the highest falls in the Park. We learned on this hike that deer “snort” (sure glad it was a deer when we heard that sound).

     Among some of our bear sightings, we were driving through a campground close to the Center and a big grizzly just ran right in front of us across the road. Wow, he was big. We try and not hike where there has been recent bear evidence as JoAnn saw some very high claw marks on a tree.

     The Mud Volcano was amazing and I would say a must-see. Those pools of hot muddy water and acid were bubbling and even sizzling. One cave made all sorts of weird noises and was called the Dragon’s Mouth Spring.

     There are buffalo everywhere in the Park now, since it is mating season. We were driving down a 1-lane road and all of a sudden there was a a big bull Bison ambling right along in the middle coming toward us. Bill started backing up—we knew we were the ones that had to give—until he just walked on his way.

     Renting a boat on Lake Yellowstone for a couple hours on a warm afternoon,was a fun adventure and we survived the choppy waves which are common. (It is the largest body of water farther from any highway in the 48 states.) We stayed in the little yellow cabins at the Lake and enjoyed the old lodge experience there.

     We took a train from Virginia City to Nevada City, ghost towns that were former gold rush towns. Many movies have been made there including Lonesome Dove and Missouri Breaks. Speaking of movies Bill rented A River Runs Through It, and had to try out some new fly fishing techniques. It was made not far from where we are staying.

     Driving over Beartooth Pass, we would have to agree with Charles Kuralt calling it one of the most scenic drives in the country.

     The Mt. Washburn Trail was one of our prettiest and most rewarding hikes. We saw beautiful fields of wildflowers and lots of mountain goats, 2 even sharing the path with us. A storm moved in just as we reached the top and we were glad to have an observation room to move into, even though we were shoulder to shoulder with 50 other hikers.

     The West Yellowstone, Montana Rodeo we went to tonight was so much fun. We really enjoyed it especially since we were sitting by some of the moms. Now that is nerve-racking watching your son trying to stay on a big bull. We cheered and clapped with all the locals and tourists.

It has been exciting to see all the preparations for Pres. Obama’s family visit tomorrow. There has been lots of speculation as to what and how, but as we got home tonight, we learned that the motorcade will be passing within feet of our camper. We begin our work for the 50th Anniversary Commemoration of the earthquake at the Visitor Center tomorrow, so we will miss it all—probably for the best with the crowds.

May God Bless each of you,

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Happy Birthday Smokey

2009-08-09T22:06:00.001-06:00

Today was Smokey Bear’s birthday. He is 65 now, the same age as Bill-hmmm. It was fun to tell kids and give them a Smokey sticker today at the Center (although most of their grandparents knew him better).

As some of the brochures say, there aren’t many things that come close to a visit to Yellowstone, with its history, geologic features, and wildlife.

     Yellowstone was set aside as our first national park in 1872. It is easy to see why when the trappers first told of what they saw here, they weren’t believed. In recent history, the fires of 1988 burned almost a third of the Park, and we’ve seen some of the results. But as some have pointed out, it is a sunnier and more open place, and we can really see how the forest is coming back.

     A caldera is a cauldron, or a hot crater in the ground.
(Simply) the Yellowstone Caldera can be described as a magma chamber that pushed its way to the surface, making fractures. Hot gases & molten rock erupted over a large area and collapsed, forming the gigantic caldera. This hotspot is the reason there are more geothermal features here than anywhere on earth (from Yellowstone Expedition). What we get to see here then are geysers, hot springs, mud pots(my favorites to watch), and fumaroles.

     There are so many different animals and species to see—bison, moose (we’re still waiting), elk, Pronghorn, eagle, wolf, lynx, trout (which Bill looks for a lot), over 300 species of birds, including the Sandhill Crane (fun to watch), and of course black bears and grizzlies. We’ve seen several but I am glad to say we haven’t seen a bear on the trail. Everyone carries bear spray though. The thing is, you have to practice your quick-draw as Bill joked with another hiker on a trail, and your aim & timing have to be just right. You have only 4 seconds of spray and the directions say to wait until the bear is within 20 feet or so. Hope we don’t find out!

We are in the middle of our 3-day work week and it has been work, more for Bill than me, as we are getting ready for the 50th year happenings since the earthquake. Word is that the President is coming—maybe he will stop by!

May God Bless each of you,

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Yellowstone & Family Surprise

2009-08-07T22:57:00.001-06:00

I thought it seemed funny at the Center when Ashley took me to “look for brochures” and they wanted me to “check the film.” As I did I heard surprise and saw the balloons out of the corner of my eye.

Wow! The whole family here to celebrate my 60th and have a Yellowstone Vacation! What a wonderful whirlwind week we had touring Yellowstone seeing the incredible sights. There truly is no place like it in the world with its geysers, hot springs, fumaroles, and paint pots—we saw and learned a lot.

We gathered at Old Faithful in time to see it spout (of course I had to talk about what faithful means with the kids) and then celebrate at the Old Faithful Inn.

Some other highlights of our Yellowstone family week were nature walks, and hot-potting (this is where you dip in the river with both cold & hot sources together!) and gathering for a chuckwagon dinner.

Turning 60 has been great!

May God Bless You,

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

W. Yellowstone & Earthquake Lake

2009-07-29T22:57:00.001-06:00

Finishing our first days of work, we both breathe a sigh of relief that we can do it. Our duties at the Visitor Center are similar to what we’ve done before. But, we don’t do money and we do bathrooms. That’s OK—we are volunteers.Also, we wear uniforms, certainly looking more official than we are. We have long days, but work only 3 a week, so lots of time to explore.

Mainly we are here to help out with the activities surrounding the 50th “commemoration” of the Hebgen Lake Earthquake. Most anyone living anywhere out west knows about it. We didn’t and so are learning what we can. Besides that, at the Center (believe it or not), we’re learning about seismographic readings (still a lot of activity around here), plate tectonics (I remember some of that), and some geologic wonders (Yellowstone 101). The staff—interns ranger, local long-time Park guide- have all been great showing us the ropes and we are enjoying getting to know them.

The Ranger District office grounds will be our home for a month. W. Yellowstone is a nice little western touristy town. Lots of stuff going on—rodeos, melodramas, music in the parks, and shops. We can walk, bike, or run right into town. It’s an easy to get around town and we did that on our bikes our first night. It is fun being so close to everything. Like one night right across the street we did our laundry, while we ate a great Italian restaurant next door. The laundromat is always an experience. Some ladies from Israel needed help figuring out the washers and dryers.

What a Surprise!!! The family arrived for my 60th and we are all going on a Yellowstone Vacation!!!

May God Bless you All,

Celebrating the Journey, Linda and Bill

On to Yellowstone

2009-07-25T19:23:00.001-06:00

After we told the girls see you in a month, we were back on the road again. Anna Laura was right—a lot of Wyoming is in the middle of nowhere. Sometimes the wide open country makes you feel like you are on the moon.

One of our stops was the Mt. Man Museum in Pinedale, Wyoming. What interesting place—we learned about Jedediah Smith and other mountain men. They came to trap beaver because the English hat fashion of the day used the pelts. When that fashion died out, so did the need for what they did. Amazing that fashion dictated so much of history, and still does I guess?? At the museum we also learned that there is a lot of gas exploration going on in both CO and WY—we wondered what all that equipment and construction was.

The Grand Tetons are certainly that—grand. They way they rise up from the valley floor is majestic and beautiful. We hiked and reminisced of our trip there with the kids 25 (!) years ago. We took a wonderful leisurely raft trip down the Snake River. The Lodge Co. staff served us a delicious dinner on the shore. Our colorful & knowledgeable rat guide was the best part of our float. He reminded us of a true mountain man and sort of a Jack Palance character, sharing lots of tales and info.

As soon as we arrived in Yellowstone, we saw a huge bull bison meandering right down the highway. It was like he was welcoming us and we drove right by him.

We drove on to W. Yellowstone and the Hebgen Ranger District and found our new '”spot.” Ranger Jo Anne came to welcome us and explain our duties. It was an afternoon of work getting set up, but it is feeling like home tonight.

May God Bless you all,

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda

Friends & Family Fun

2009-07-20T16:02:00.001-06:00

I had an early morning call one day “Grammy, can you come and play?” Of course, I drove to their house as quick as I could. We swang, jumped in the jump castle, and played dolls.

Meanwhile, back at the Ranch Bill was washing saddles and taking down fence. He may be sore, but I think he enjoyed it.

Each summer we enjoy having friends from home come by to see us. The Smiths spent a day of their vacation with us, camping right at “our place.” We had a fun day, driving over Boreas Pass and into Breckenridge. I think Sharon takes as many pictures as I do. They had a great trip through Colorado, but Ron sure didn’t like the 3 flat tires they had.

What a wonderful Saturday at Tiny Town we had, being able to celebrate with our littlest princess on her 3rd birthday! PaPa arrived with the pizza and Grammy with the Cinderella balloons, and words can’t really describe the excitement on her face.

As if we hadn’t celebrated my birthday enough, the Nixons came for one last overnight and decorated the camper for our (Jeri Anna and me) surprise party. The girls had fun “pretending” to sleep up in the loft. Jeri Anna has graduated from the sleeping in the shower.

We have really enjoyed our camp in the mountains at the Rocky Mt. Pack String and we hope to be invited back. What a whirlwind few weeks with 3 active girls and their mommy & daddy—much more playing than hiking, but a whole lot more fun. After a last outing with them to the baseball game (Go Rockies!), we are off for another adventure. Please remember us in your prayers.

May God Bless each of you.

Celebrating the Journey, Linda and Bill

What a week of fun

2009-07-14T22:33:00.001-06:00

We got to spend some quality time with the girls while K & J took their marriage to a new high-hiking the tallest mountain in Colorado-Mt. Elbert for their 11th anniversary on the 11th.

Meanwhile Bill fished and “graduated” from his fishing class and the girls and I had a backyard circus. The ladybug act made Mommy smile when they returned home.

The scenery around Jefferson is what makes you say “Now, THIS is Colorado! We returned to fish and hike there at one of our favorite lakes.

We had to laugh remembering how last year, we hiked to the truck for the camera and back to get a picture of one, lonely Columbine wildflower. This year we’re seeing them on every hike.

What a coincidence we had yesterday. We met some other volunteers there at the lake and he showed us a picture of their “home”. It was a big, Army camouflaged truck. We knew we had seen it somewhere before (you don’t easily forget something like that). When we visited with them at the ranch today, come to find out, they winter in Port Aransas last winter, when we were there. And they do actually live in it. We meet so many interesting people.

We finally got to meet the mules and their US Forest Service Trainers. They travel a lot to put on demonstrations of how they help out on trails in the forest, and they get to be in lots of parades. Glenn & Alice have a beautiful part of Colorado to live and we are glad they are sharing it with us.

It was fun to introduce the girls to the mules, and after getting over their first fears, they really enjoyed these big magnificent animals.

May God Bless all of you,

Celebrating the Journey, Linda and Bill

Great Lessons

2009-07-12T18:04:00.001-06:00

Kyndall and Jerry bid on fly fishing lessons for me at a MOPS fund-raiser and I won. I was glad and apprehensive. I had 2 evenings and 1 day of lessons, which was very exciting. We spent one day on the Blue river out of Breckenridge and yes I did catch a fish, a brown trout quite fun.

Now I have pole, reel, case, waders, boots to go with the waders and lots of extras, I will not say what it cost. But I had a lot of fun shopping and looking. Linda may think of something she’s been waiting to purchase that’s that expensive I have to say I think I am hooked.

I am camped about 50 yards from the North Fork of the South Platte river within about 1 mile of river, that is part of the mule ranch where I am volunteering. I will only have a few more weeks before we leave for Yellowstone where I hope to find more fishing.

Back in the Pike

2009-07-08T23:14:00.001-06:00

As of July 2, we are back in the Pike National Forest for our 3rd summer—for an all too short time here we are finding. Volunteering for the Rocky Mt. Regional Packstring is a new experience and as we have found in our jobs, we enjoy the variety of learning and doing something new. Bill is doing maintenance, and general care-taking. I am able to spend lots of time with the girls as we are just about a 30 min. drive away. Today I drove to their house and we all went to Tiny Town for a M.O.P.S. play date. Bill stayed back at the ranch and took down some fence. Don’t feel too sorry for him though—he is finding time to take fly fishing lessons. And we both got to take the girls to their tennis lesson and lunch yesterday.

Taken by Alexandria when she spent the night with Grammy & PaPa

It didn’t take us long when we got here last week to remember what all we had been missing about Colorado, and our place in the Forest has it all—the Rocky Mountains around us, a rippling clear stream, the bright blue skies, the cool mountain air (Bill really appreciates the temperature), the beautiful sunsets. And one thing here that we haven’t missed-mosquitoes. It seems they had a really wet spring. As Bill was purchasing fishing equipment, I got a Bug-Off shirt (we’ll see if it works). The wet spring also brought lots of beautiful wildflowers. Being in our camper back in the mountains just seems like we are back home in some ways. It’s a wonderful place to call home for a few weeks.

We spent 4th of July back at Wilkerson Pass getting to see some of the old gang there, and hiking our trail again. We drove to Como for a barbecue chicken dinner and fireworks with our friends. What a show of fireworks and people! Como is truly a little slice of America. Where else could you see cowboys-the woman in the black cape, regular families playing Frisbee, the old mercantile store, those living here since the 60s. It is truly Colorful Colorado! I loved it when the search & rescue and firefighters all arrived to put on the show. What a setting as the sun went down with the Mosquito Range all around and then the fireworks in the valley below. Wow!

We’ll be journaling in our blog as time and the computer allows us, so check in if you want to see what we’ve been up to! And let us know how you are.

May God bless you all, Linda and Bill

Farther out West

2008-10-11T22:31:00.001-06:00

On the Road Again

We picked up the camper and parked it in a pre-arranged space. Bill appreciated the freedom of driving and parking where we pleased. Driving off into SW Colorado, we saw some gorgeous aspen color, made more spectacular by the fresh snow of the night before.
Amazing to see how the country has changed as we drive. Even though it was higher in elevation than Denver, it looked much like the desert.

The Grand Circle (3 parks)

The Grand Canyon is just that--Grand! You have to see it to believe it. This was our first time to the North Rim and we appreciated the beauty amid the quiet of less crowds.
Our hike out to Cape Final gave incredible views of the Canyon when you emerged from the forest. It was like being on a peninsula of land with the Canyon on 3 sides. At the point we scrambled to the top of some rocks, being verrrrrrry careful as were our fellow hikers--but worth stretching ourselves

The sunrises and sunsets are the show here. Everyone grabs a seat on the porch to watch. The sun sets about 6:00 ad we were out to watch the sunrise by 6:00 AM! (we kind of like the Pacific Time Zone.) Both are amazing as you watch the colors on the canyon gradually change. Words fail, except to say Thank you, Lord.

On to Utah and Bryce Canyon. We were both surprised by it, I guess because we didn't know what to expect. Our first panoramic view off the rim left us speechless. Taking the ranger's advice we hiked the Queen's Garden (and did it ever look like one) & the Navajo Loop. What a way to see the majesty of it all!

In this picture are some "hoodoos"--a hoodoo is a natural column of rock in a fantastic form. Who knew that! On our hikes in Bryce, we saw many beautiful and unusual rock formations.

Then Zion National Park! We are amazed that these close-by national parks can have such varied geography. I think some of the programs explained that to us, but I couldn't now. At this Park we hiked on top of the Canyon (that was stretch for us both), and deep in the canyon to the Narrows in the river. Wonderful hikes and scenery!

The history of the lodges of our National Parks is so interesting as we learned more about them in one of the Ranger programs. We have enjoyed 3 of them on this trip and each is so unique.
Many people go to several National Parks when out here. It is fun that we have met a couple and visited with them in all 3 parks on our Grand Circle. It was like visiting with old friends when we saw Mary & Jim again. Fun!
Zion National Park:

Sounds like snow may be coming out here in the west, so we are soon to be on our way HOME. It has been a trip!

May the grace of Jesus be with you all,
Celebrating the Journey, Bill & Linda

Fun Times

2008-10-09T22:52:00.000-06:00

One weekend was a wonderful mother-daughter-friend- MOPS friends experience (along with 4000 other moms!).
What a special group of women! The M.O.P.S. Convention in Texas was a time we'll always remember--smiling, laughing, dancing, crying, learning, & loving.

While we were having so much fun, Bill & Jerry were having even more (maybe) with 3 little girls back at home.
Bill also had time to go fishing with the mules???

Sights and Sounds of Fall

2008-09-29T21:32:00.001-06:00

Our last day of work and wow, were we busy. Everyone seemed to be out today to enjoy this glorious fall. Guess Ranger Laura had just about all she wanted of Bill!

It was somewhat bittersweet because we will certainly miss those we work with and all those interesting people we have met along the way. We are also just a little homesick and will be ready to head back to Missouri soon.

We were able to experience some of the sounds of Fall in the mountains. Those were the bugling of the elk at dusk on the quiet trails around Florissant Fossil Beds.

Beautiful Fall sights were all around us here on the Pass.

Our train trip with K & J & AL & AX & JAJ in the fall has become a tradition. The Cripple Creek Narrow Gauge RR had awesome views and was a fun trip, although the toot-toot was a little loud for Jeri Anna.

On our drive back, the girls compared it to a "mine of gold" since that is what we had been hearing about. Many times there was gold on both sides of us.
The hills are alive with color. Here is one view of Pikes Peak.

Six Wilkerson Pass volunteers celebrate with a last sunset.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you,
Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Notes so that we will remember

2008-09-26T22:11:00.000-06:00

There is so much to see and do, and by living here we seem to find even more the longer we are here. We are thankful we like to do many of the same things (usually). Things for another time:

     Colorado Trail in the Pike NF
     Climbing & camping up Pikes Peak
      Buffalo Peaks Wilderness
     Gold panning
     Cottonwood Hot Springs
     Horseback riding
     Cheyenne Mt. Zoo
      Air Force Chapel for worship
     Cowboy Church at M Lazy C
     Hut to Hut hiking
     Mt. Princeton
     Mt. Democrat
     Mt. Silverheels
     Chama train
     Tabor Opera House
      Wolf & Wildlife Center
      Round Mountain geo-cache
      Skagway Reservoir
      Mohawk Lakes
      State Forest State Park- American Lake & Thunder Pass
      Paonia and vineyards
      Grand Lake & Winding River
      Texas Creek fishing to Canon City
      Sheep Rock
       State Forest State Park
       Stations of the Cross-Ft. Garland area
      Lost Lake
      Navigators
      Colorado Trail in the Pike NF
      Hot Air Balloon ride ?
      Fly-fishing ?

From the season

2008-09-25T14:12:00.001-06:00

As this season at Wilkerson Pass comes to a close,we are talking and thinking about people who have crossed our path here at the Visitor Center.

Just some we can recall:
        -the family from Wichita with Mom, Dad, 4 boys and lots of bikes, ATVs--were they ever having fun, and stopped here for a hike.
        -the little old, old lady walking slowwwwly back to her car for money for a postcard.
        -family from Czech Republic excited to find a stuffed marmot.
        -the man from Conn. who talked about how quiet it is here.
        -the young daddy Bill helped hose out the car seat.
        -the couple we met at Relay -the wife is a survivor and they shared how they are rethinking their lives.
        -friends and acquaintances from Carthage.
        -the lesson Laura and I got from a man about rhinos (more than we ever wanted to know).
        -many Military out enjoying time with their families.
        -lots of bicyclists--the young man riding across the country by himself.
        -lots & lots of motorcyclists-esp. the 25 couples from Italy.
        -the men on their way to the annual fire-fighters' memorial.
        -the couple excited to tell us their son was the author of one of the books on our shelves (took a picture of it).
        -a teen (developmentally delayed) very interested in our John Denver CDs--said he went to sleep by that music when he was a baby.
        -speaking of which, many people smile or reminisce when they come in and hear his music-it brings a reaction from lots of visitors.
        -the many guests who want to talk about what we do.
        -the man who had lost his wife and was very interested in all the information Bill could give him about volunteer jobs.
        -the man who was a retired forest ranger, out traveling with family, and told us thank you for our work here.
        - the kids whose faces light up when choosing their scavenger hunt prize.
        -the interesting couple living in Spain...
        -the guests from Scotland commenting on our lovely dusting of snow on the mountains--they are always so friendly and positive.
        -local friends and bikers who rode up the Pass to see us.
        -the friends on their way to a Christian conference-one telling us about her company managing Christian recording artists-the other sharing her experience of healing and wanting to hear our story. They actually lit the place up!
        -the bus group from 6 different European countries.
        -the man from the Springs who came back to say Merry Christmas to us before we left.

We have enjoyed sharing just a small part of so many people's lives.

May the grace of Jesus be with you,
Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

On the Pass

2008-09-21T22:12:00.001-06:00

Smokey always keeps watch on Wilkerson Pass, reminding everyone to be cautious with their fires.
(Pike's Peak in the background)

Some of our every day activities at the Visitor Center:

We didn't enjoy telling Dennis (a staffer we all appreciated) good-bye, but we enjoyed our farewell party for him. The weather didn't cooperate for it to be outside, so we moved it in the Center. It was great--we were warm and everybody stayed & visited longer.

Getting all 5 of the Wilkerson Pass regulars here at the same time was a good chance for a picture and for goofing around with some puppets we sell.

Our Puma Point Trail was used a lot by guests and almost daily by us IF we were around. It is a great little hike into the aspens and to a beautiful view of South Park and the Collegiate Peaks.

The kids never tired of the Wilkerson Wheel of Knowledge and wanted to play every time they visited. Of course we made sure everybody is a winner.

Bill likes to continue the growth of the forest each year. Here is this year's tree on the Pass.

May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you all.
Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Cudneys Visit

2008-09-21T21:58:00.000-06:00

Here we are at Maroon Bells

Mt. Sherman

2008-09-17T15:17:00.001-06:00

"Another day" for a 14er came sooner than expected. (A "14er" is a mountain with an elevation of over 14,000 ft. Colorado has 56.)
I told Bill I would think about it, and he and Kyndall & Jerry were soon all over it talking on the phone and checking out maps. So the next morning, with backpacks well-stocked, we were off before I had time to think about it.

On the road to the trailhead, which was called harsh in some directions we read, Bill was glad that his truck was built Ford-tough.

It was a gorgeous sunny day with absolutely no prediction of rain (unusual for the mountains) and a clear 29 degrees when we hit the trail. The many layers we wore were great as they were peeled off and put back on many times throughout the day.

Mt. Sherman statistics: Summit - 14,036'; Elevation gain - 2,100'; Class 2; Trip length -5 mi.
Located in the Tenmile-Mosquito Range, with trailheads at 4-Mile Creek and Iowa Gulch

After parking at the gate below the Dauntless Mine, we began our hike. The beginning is pretty much straight up and were soon sucking wind. There is definitely less oxygen at 12,000 and up! We trudged on and it sure was trudging for a while. Farther up we were glad to reach the switchbacks, giving us time to catch our breath.

Some parts of the ridge were confusing and trail unclear in the talus (sloping mass of rock debris). I mean when you get above treeline, it's all rocks. How are you supposed to know which rocks are the trail? We were glad that past hikers had built rock cairns along the way. Rocks in the shape of an arrow kept us on track at one fork.

There were remains of a couple mines up in the high elevations where the miners hunted for the motherlode. It was amazing to us how they could get all that equipment up there.

The trail up at around 13,500 crossed some boulder fields that made me wonder what we were doing here. This seemed more like mountain-climbing than hiking. After that the ridge really got narrow. Crossing the area up to the saddle in the snow was probably the hardest part of the hike. And of course, there is wind.

It is interesting that people on the trail of a 14er seem to have a sort of camaraderie. They are friendly, encouraging, and have a story to tell. On that day, there were about 8 on the trail, for which we were really thankful when we followed some footprints (or dogprints) in the snow. Hikers are always glad to see someone on their 1st 14er. Since Bill told some we met that it was mine, I received words of encouragement, and even pats on the arm with "you can do it", from a man much older than me. We met one man who had hiked all 56!

The 3 on top congratulated us when we arrived, and pointed out the tube where you sign in when you reach the summit.
Woo-hoo! We did it! Of course, we had to call Jason and Kyndall (yes we had complete cell coverage) so that they could congratulate us.

It is hard to find words to describe the view and the feeling when "on top of the world". Incredible, amazing, and awesome are just a few. We were able to see so far on this unusually clear day. It was fun for us to try and figure out which mountains and lakes we were viewing.

WOW! We could pick out Pike's Peak, the Collegiate Peaks, Spinney and 11-Mile Reservoirs, and even Wilkerson Pass! Mt. Elbert & Massive, Mt. Sheridan, Mt. Evans, Torreys and Gray, and Mt. of the Holy Cross were some of mountains we saw from the top of the world. We saw the town of Leadville and the beautiful Turquoise Lake.

The narrow precipice area was scarier going down. We really took our time (we weren't trying to set any records here :). Both up and back, we stopped a lot to catch our breath, drink lots of water, and just to marvel at what we were seeing.

We heard the warning cries of little pikas as we got closer to them than they wanted. It was fun watching them pop in & out from under the rocks. A huge hawk of some kind soared above us, and we were surprised to see many birds at that elevation. Bill was especially excited to see a Big Horn Sheep go running by us. It was exciting to watch him until he was just a dot on the skyline.

When we got back down to the trailhead and our truck, it was 55 degrees. (The temperature can be misleading when you are up at that elevation--used lots of sunscreen.) The trip had taken us about 6 hours. What a feeling of exhilaration from what we had done, AND that we were back down!!!

Bill and I were so thankful that he has blessed us both with the health and ability to do all that we could do on this day.
Praise the Lord for all his blessings!

May the grace of our Lord be with you all.
Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Didn't Conquer

2008-09-15T22:31:00.001-06:00

Today was an awesome blue-sky September day in the mountains.

Mt. Democrat: We came, we saw, we didn't conquer. It wasn't for not trying though. Hiking up past Kite Lake, we were surrounded by mountains in every direction. Passing lots of remnants of mining days, we were amazed at how those miners did what they did and with so little. I guess the thought of striking it kept them going.

It was a beautiful day and hike up. But when we passed treeline and were in the boulder fields, I said I had enough. A 13er provided plenty of excitement for me. Bill, experienced 14er hiker that he is, was ready to go on, but obliged me.
I think maybe my hike wasn't helped by my crossing the creek and landing with one boot in the water--not a good way to start.

Anyway, maybe another day...

We made our way to Windy Ridge, home of many Bristlecone Pines, and the oldest one in Colorado (can't tell you exactly where). Some of them are 1400 years old, which is hard to comprehend! Windy Ridge definitely lives up to its name.
It is an awesome sight to see all those ancient trees, some almost sideways from the wind and harsh weather where they live.

May the grace of our Lord be with you,
Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Some fun

2008-09-11T15:56:00.001-06:00

In Rocky Mountain National Park, we went out at dusk to see some elk and hear their bugling, since it is the season. We were not disappointed. Hiking into a valley, we came by one bull and several cows, even getting to see a calf nursing. It was such a quiet and peaceful scene, we felt like we were intruding.

As we hiked in the Park, we said as we often do when we are in the Forest or National Park, we are thankful for all that's been done to preserve these lands.

Trail Ridge Road was awesome as anyone knows who has driven over it. Bill is always amazed at how it was built. I thought we might be blown away at our highest point stop.

The YMCA of the Rockies is a wonderful place to get families together out-of-doors. We spent a night there to check it out for next year--lots of possibilities.

As we walked to the Dining Hall for breakfast, we got to see a beautiful bright rainbow over the Park. What a way to start the day!
You can maybe see a little of it just over my head in this picture Bill took at the bronze YMCA statue.

We got to have lots of fun with JAJ on her first day of TumbleBugs, while big sisters are at school. Here she is trying out the equipment with Bammy (as she calls me).

May the grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Campaigning at the Camper

2008-09-09T08:16:00.000-06:00

Bill must think the chipmunks can vote.

Realities

2008-09-08T14:43:00.000-06:00

We are having some incredible experiences and adventures. But reading over our blog I thought we should also let you know it is not all perfect.

Some of the realities:

           Weather is a big one which we have learned may include sun, rain, hail, sleet, and snow--all in the same day.
            Wind--it can really get to blowing.
            Power outages (although by no means as much as we had anticipated). But we just really felt for the worker out walking the line in these mountains.
            Wondering about a guest on the lot a few times.
            TV snow -- This has bothered Bill more at times like the Olympics and the Convention.

Time: There just doesn't seem to be enough to do all we want to do and see. It seems we have to come back to work to rest up--we're busier on our days off
I don't think anyone will feel sorry for us.

Celebrating the Journey, Linda & Bill

Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-04T15:05:00.002-06:00

This was our last expected big weekend as far as guests at the Center. It was busy, lively, and fun. One of the days was the busiest of the year. The VFW gave out gallons of coffee & juice and lots of cookies and flags. One couple told us they come each time just when they see the Veterans are here.

The girls (and their mommy and daddy of course) spent a night and we all went to the chuck wagon dinner & hay ride at a nearby ranch. There was a group dressed in some pioneer costumes and coonskin caps and some pretty silk dresses. It was a fun evening for us all.

Ropin' and Ridin' at the M Lazy C:

The North Pole was our destination for Sunday afternoon. What a fun amusement park for kids and adults! You have an awesome view of the mountains from the Sky Ride.

K & J met a friend there from college with her family. She was in their wedding and they hadn't seen her for years.

Charles and Linda arrived from Arkansas--we'd been looking forward to their visit for a few weeks. They were good sports to come in and "shop at the North Pole" as many Grammys & PaPas do.

We had lots of plans for our 2 days with Charles & Linda. As we told them, it's a big state so get ready to ride! So much we wanted to share in a little time.

For their benefit (and ours) so they'll know where they've been:
After showing them the Visitor Center, we were off through Buena Vista with a stop along the Arkansas River.

On the way to lunch at the Inn at Twin Lakes, we saw some awesome mountains including Mt. Elbert, the tallest in Colorado. Driving over Independence Pass, we wondered at the abilities and strength of the pioneers that did so.

In Aspen, we walked around and kidded that we were rubbing elbows with the beautiful people. We enjoyed seeing the beautiful Maroon Bells, one of the most-visited sites in the state.

Aspen is certainly a dog-friendly town and their little Champ felt right at home running in the park with the big dogs.

Our destination was the Inn at Redstone, a quaint old inn that we really like, with a lot of history. We enjoyed a delicious dinner in the dining room and coffee in the foyer. Later we took a walk down into the couple of blocks that are Redstone.

The jeep ride to the mill at Crystal is something we had heard about from so many visitors, and we weren't disappointed. The views, the ride up the trail (that Bill & Charles were certainly glad not to be driving) and the weather was awesome. It was the highlight of our adventure together.

We drove over the pass into the old western town of Crested Butte, and then on to dinner outside by the Gunnison River.

May the grace of our Lord be with you all,
Celebrating the Journey, Bill & Linda

Out in Nature

2008-08-28T22:19:00.001-06:00

Geo-caching
You may know but for those of you who don't, geo-caching is sort of what I would call "hiking with with a purpose." With a pretty simple hand-held GPS we put in our coordinates (with a lot of help from Jerry and Ranger Laura) and we're off. What you do is look up where the caches are in that area and you go on a hunt to find the "treasure". Geo-caching is a great way to get families outdoors together.

That is something I am very aware of and interested in right now as I'm reading a book that we sell in the Visitor Center-Last Child in the Woods by Louv. It's about a lot of things and a book that's taken me a long time to get through, since I am re-reading and underlining. I won't get on a soapbox, but I would encourage all to read it. To me it is about getting kids out in nature, emphasizing unstructured play and discovery. There is something in there for everybody, and I would highly recommend it for grand-parents.

There are even a couple caches here at the Pass and we had heard about them before we got out there to find them. Of course you don't divulge the actual location (that would take the fun out of it for others). On a recent outing, the girls were excited to find a treasure with lots of fun little things for kids. JAJ at 2 even has gotten the idea and I will always remember seeing her going through the box trying to find her own treasure. When you find one, you sign the log book, putting something in, and taking something out. What fun!

Gray's Peak

2008-08-25T22:11:00.001-06:00

We were up at 5 to get on the trail early. Linda was in Cuba helping her mother get established in an assisted living facility. Jerry watched the little Nixons.

It was cold when we started up the trail. It was great time for another father daughter mountain climb.

By the summit, we had seen pika, marmot and mountain goats.

This was a challenge from the start. From 10,000 feet to 14 plus in four miles, it took us about three hours to ascend. It was one of our more challenging, but one of more rewarding fourteeners we have done. The 360 degree views showed Longs Peak, Breckenridge, Pike's Peak and Mount Evans to the East.

On the trail we encountered rain, snow, and high winds. It was 4 miles up a 4x4 drive road to the trail head. We met some Jewish teenagers from New York on the trail and we gave a ride back down to the main road.

On One Day

2008-08-20T21:49:00.000-06:00

     As we said when some geologists left, after showing us the petrified fish poop they had found on their outing, what other way could we meet such a variety of interesting people? (On their behalf they also showed us some rare finds.)
     Four families from England shared the stories of their "holiday." There was the man from Berlin who is walking across America on his vacations. As he and his wife travel, he walks and she drives. She visited with us quite a while at the Visitor Center while he caught up. What an interesting undertaking!
     Two men came in who were running in the race up Pike's Peak (from Florida and Ct.). On their way back from the Rally in Sturgis, a couple told us of their adventures and bought games for their grand-children. Some were arriving to set up for the local gem and mineral show down the road.
     There was the couple from NY looking for dispersed camping only (where you go out in the forest with no amenities if you can call a pit toilet that). They had been on the road for 8 weeks and were returning home. We talked about what a culture shock they would have.
And this is all in just one day! So very interesting.

Celebrating the Journey, Bill and Linda