I was fortunate again today to see 399 and her 4 cubs!

I was one of the first to Pilgrim Creek when she showed up this morning . It wasn’t long before hundreds joined me. All hoping to get a glimpse of the most famous bear in Wyoming, if not, the world!! She is 24 years old – which as far as I know is one of the oldest bears alive! (Outside of a zoo)

So why do I love her so much? I was fortunate enough to see her many years ago when she had 2 cubs. The fact that she is still going strong just warms my heart!!

Most important though is the fact that she has become the symbol of the bear’s recovery system in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Can you imagine a world without bears? I can’t and I don’t want to. But the population of grizzlies was declining. I read that scientists were afraid the Yellowstone grizzlies would disappear all together. In 1975, the grizzlies were added to the Endangered Species Act (we must continue to fight to save our marvelous animals!!). 399 has certainly done her part to restore the grizzly population. I love that she stands for the success of this act, I love that she makes so many people happy, and I just love that she affords us the opportunity to watch her cubs grow!!

Starting my morning with this sight just made my day. I haven’t stopped smiling and I know when my head hits the pillow, I’m going to bed happy! 399 did that!! What’s not to love.

I really do hope that everyone reading this cares about the animals. All animals!!

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by how it’s animals are treated” Mahatma Gandhi

Sure, Kerouac said it, but for as long as I can remember I have been taking road trips. My first trips were as a child when my family would visit my grandparents in Florida. The six of us would pile into the family car and hit the road. Our four door Buick or Ford would transport us over the hills of West Virginia, through the Carolinas, and onto the adventures awaiting us on the sunny beaches of Fort Myers. The trip took 3 days and I cherished each and every one. Yes, I was excited to reach our final destination but I loved the moments spent on the road!! I have memories of laughing and singing and sleeping with my head in my mother’s lap. The road was a wonderful place to be! It was wonderful then and it still is today. I have found myself thinking back to those days many times during this trip. Always with a smile on my face. I’m so thankful my parents instilled a sense of adventure in me and paved the way for a life of travel. And I’d like to think that they are looking down and smiling too!! I’m never alone on the road.

A new day. A trailhead sign. Pulled over and said “why not?”. Hoping to see birds, not knowing what else to expect. The next three hours were absolutely amazing. A challenging trail that with it, brought some of the most incredible views I have ever seen. Surrounded by canyon walls and the songs of vireos and chickadees. The trail crossed over the canyon creek more than 10 times. Brought back memories of the Mill Creek Park stepping stones that were crossed so many times when I was young. Loved getting wet and muddy then, love getting wet and muddy now. The end of the trail lead to a spectacular arch above us and what was once a flowing waterfall, now just a trickle running down the canyon walls beside us. I stood in awe and promised myself right then that I would never stop exploring. There is so much to enjoy in the great outdoors. The trail was not an easy one – there were spots where you had to climb up some pretty steep rocks, and climbing down those same rocks on the way back. Being challenging is what made it so fun!! At one of the crossings, I bypassed the stepping stones and went right through the water. It truly was one of the best ways to spend a Sunday morning. Never stop exploring!! You never know what amazing trails you may find!!

Spent the last 3 days in Utah exploring Antelope Island, Bear River Bird Migratory Refuge, and Dead Horse Point State Park. We are heading up to Arches National Park tonight around 10:00 PM to view the full moon and the silhouette of the structures. What a great friend! Our Saint George race was cancelled but that didn’t stop Patty from flying cross country to join in the adventure!! 12 hour birding day, hiking, sightseeing, and more!! The fun continues!!!

My brother was a history teacher. He can recall dates, events, and details like no other. I always cringe when the Jeopardy category is “History” – I know who is going to answer first. Maybe I should have paid more attention in school. But what I am finding as I travel this magnificent country is there are plenty of opportunities to learn. The other day as I traveled the Chief Joseph highway, I stopped to read the signs and learn about the plight of the Nez Perce tribe and their leader. Although it was just a glimpse into what happened in the late 1870s, it was enough to whet my appetite (Added to my winter reading list). I do know it is a rather sad story but I want to know about this leader who was valued for his sense of purpose. Chief Joseph’s quotes remain relevant today – especially – “The earth is the mother of all people, and all people shall have equal rights upon it”. The sunrise over Chief Joseph highway (below) will remain etched in my brain forever. It was an incredible sight followed by some of the most awe-inspiring views I have ever seen. Along the way I couldn’t help but think that everything is going to be all right.

Today we hiked up the mountain. I immediately recognized all the benefits of this simple activity. Breathing in fresh mountain air, listening to the birds, enjoying all the sights of nature. Ahhhhhh! There is a practice known as Forest Bathing. Sometimes referred to as Nature Therapy, it is a process of improving your mental or physical health. It’s not a trend, it has been around for decades and don’t let the name fool you, there is no “bathing” involved. It’s simply spending time under the canopy of trees. If you have the opportunity to be outside, try it. Leave your cell phone behind and simply be. Soak in the atmosphere through your senses. The practice has been proven to reduce stress, improve happiness, and free up creativity. It has been said to lower blood pressure and heart rate and boost the immune system. It is a simple practice – just breathe deeply and relax amongst the trees. We all have access to parks and areas where we can relax and appreciate nature. Think of a place where you can go and try it. Be calm and observe nature. Being in nature will restore and rejuvenate you. Whether it’s the Rocky Mountains or Mill Creek Park, the benefits are the same. It is a great way to spend a day (or an hour). Just savor the sounds, smells, and sights of nature!! Let the forest in!

I read the heron symbolizes stillness and tranquility, and that these two things are needed to recognize opportunities. It also signifies determination. There is a sense of independence about the heron. It prefers to hunt alone, but it can also flourish when with a crowd. As I prepare for my trip, I find myself relating to the heron and their sense of independence. During my two month adventure, I will be with people and I will be alone. I look forward to both. However, those of you who know me well, know that solitude is something I crave – I feel it is good for the soul. Solitude has been linked to increased happiness, better life satisfaction, and improved stress management.

The adventure starts in 5 days! I will have my running shoes with me and my camera! Race results and many many photos will be shared here. Don’t forget to keep in touch!!

Soon I will embark on an adventure that transitioned from a one week trip to run two 1/2 marathons to a two month trip to run one 1/2 marathon. I don’t view retirement as an ending, I view it as a beginning. A new beginning that has provided me an opportunity to really spend more time on two of my favorite things – birding and photography. When I am out west, most mornings I will be out the door before sunrise to capture some stunning images of all my favorite birds and wildlife! And if this summer is any indication, I won’t be back inside until after the sun sets. I have had a blast taking photos this summer. I’m going to share several lists with you along the way. The first list is my top 10 backyard bird photos. I hope you enjoy! (Let me know which one is your favorite).

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I’m ready for mountain sunrises and mountain sunsets. You can add your email to this blog for updates. Please keep in touch as I am going to miss everyone so much!

The mountains are calling.