Just Dandelions

One of the places I have longed to see in Colorado is the Maroon Bells area outside of Aspen. It is controlled by only being able to see it through a scheduled bus ride. There is a fee to enter the area. However, my friend and I neared Maroon River Road and noticed there was nothing preventing us to turn in. As we traveled up the road we noticed a sign that said private cars were allowed to continue because the bus service did not start until June 19th. Then, as we neared the toll booth, the ranger waved us on, saying "It is free today because of being National Trail Day!" We were on our own, at our own pace, with no charge to explore the Maroon Bells!

We saw beautiful pristine water in Maroon Lake, hummingbirds and butterflies galore, beautiful peaks and rushing waterfalls of the Maroon Bells, and a funny marmot. As we breathed in the tremendous scenery, we overheard a gentleman state to someone in his party that "It is a shame the only things blooming are just dandelions". We were amazed, in the midst of such beauty, that such lack could be spoken. BTW, I had photographed several flowers in the Maroon Bells, and they weren't all dandelions or yellow flowers. It reminds me of how often we concentrate on what we DON'T have in the midst of great abundance.

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Spring is God thinking in gold, laughing in blue, and speaking in green
Frank P. Johnson

I have come that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
Jn. 10:10

Going Home

I have that feeling of "going home" both ways on the semi-annual trips to Evergreen. I am leaving Texas and my loved ones to go to the cool mountains and less traveled roads. Both places hold the title of 'home' to me. Until I go to my room up above in the place prepared for me, I will be grateful that I can call these two earthly places 'home'.

On the drive home from DIA I become watchful for wildlife and the first signs of mountain peaks. The most anticipated view is driving the curves around the lake that take us up to the cabin off of Buffalo Creek Rd. I know I am about to see Mt. Evans in all of its glory from the top of the hill. I will see THE FENCE that I walk at least twice a day while I am there. I will certainly see fox, deer, elk, cyclists, and hikers. I will see wildflowers and aspen in their seasonal glory. I will see and hear tons of birds: hummers, woodpeckers, crows, bluebirds, jays, beebs, barn swallows.

The thing about seeing the fence as we approach the drive is that it shouts 'home'. It brings anticipation of rest, lovely shared food, giggles, and sweet crazy adventures. I treasure this beautiful second home where I have much simple treasure and happiness. It revives and nourishes my spirit. I am very blessed to be 'at home' when I am away from 'home'. It is amazing as well to return to Dallas to be met by the man of my dreams. My treasures as I arrive at each home are sweet, indeed!

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Our sweetest experiences of affection are meant to point us to that realm which is the real and endless home of the heart.
Henry Ward Beecher.

Memorable Marmots

It's adventurously expectant, greeting God with a child-like, "What's next, Papa?" God's spirit touches our spirits and confirms who we really are. We know who he is, and we know who we are: Father and children. And we know we are going to get what's coming to us~~an unbelievable inheritance!
Romans 8:16-17
THE MESSAGE

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This passage really puts into focus the way my friend Lessy and I travel through Colorado. We make a loose plan, but we are also very flexible to take a different road. We often change with the nudging of the Holy Spirit to a different plan or route. We know God has divine appointments for us. His best for us. Our plans would have us settle for less than what He had in store for us.

Getting prepared for this last trip, I began hoping to see bear and moose. They are my favorite, besides the deer and fox that I have come to identify and revisit on the mountain. I am ecstatic to say that the most delightful wildlife I saw on this trip turned out to be a few hilarious marmots.

I saw my first marmots a few years ago. Never having known of them before, I thought perhaps that they were beavers. But I knew the tail wasn't right and couldn't see any water in sight. Then I thought they were a type of gigantic prehistoric squirrel. Then I saw a picture and description on a wildlife sign posted near a trailhead. Alas, I knew they were marmots.

The first family of marmots Lessy and I encountered was crossing the road near Kebler Pass. They seemed to be in a mood to stop and chat, and were not in any hurry to get out of harm's way. As we tried to get them out of the road, the last little guy lifted his back foot and finally scooted to safety. We giggled about how funny he was.

Our second encounter was with a family just off the trail around Maroon Lake as we walked towards the Maroon Bells. The male peeked out of the den. We talked to him, and he decided we were safe and he was a little curious to pursue further conversation. He looked back down the den as if to say to his mate, "I'll be right back. There are a few nice women out here that stopped by to chat. Don't worry...they mean us no harm. They are quite funny looking!"

Mr. Marmot came out near us as a leaf shadow marked his side. He gave us a profile, then turned as if to say, "Get this full face shot, too. I am quite handsome, yes?"

So, of all the wildlife we saw on this trip, the marmots gave us delightful memories. We giggled remembering the funny way the little guy got out of the road. We were tickled to see the marmot pose for photos. Would I have picked a marmot on my list of must-see's on this last trip? No. But I'm glad God did!

On the Wild Side

I have just returned from my 'other' home in Evergreen, CO. Dale and Lessy are gracious to let me call it as home. I have taken two trips each year to go spend time with them and the rest of the creatures on the wild side. Lessy drives me around for a few days as we wander and wonder to show up for the divine appointments.

I have come to know many animals that frequent the mountain, meadow, and town of Evergreen by their faces. The little red fox that stopped in the meadow as I talked to him is surely of the line of Sparky. The mule deer with her endearing crazy ears is 'Little' Flock. I first saw her several years ago, during my first visit to the mountain home. She now brings her daughter and granddeer to the cabin. I feel extremely blessed to be trusted by them.

The elk and young buck were right in Evergreen. They are in strong migratory routes, and are used to people. Their ancestors traveled these routes long before the town of Evergreen was established. Yet, my heart becomes very tender to each animal as I speak blessings over them. I couldn't help but be pleased with the young buck's beauty as his nubs were turning into velvety racks. Yet his youth was striking as he munched on the dandelion and stopped to look at me without fear. Many of the elk cows were pregnant, and close to giving birth. Perhaps I will see them again and recognize their faces as ones I have spoken to before.

During each trip, as I spot a familiar face and rekindle a relationship, I am overcome with love for them and for God.
I think about how God has formed each of us in the womb, and knows us by name. Pretty awesome and personal God to specifically make each of us for a unique loving relationship with Him, don't you think?

Precious Moments

Today I get to keep my youngest grand child. She and I play, sing, eat, shop, and giggle lots. Today I thought it would be fun to try to get a picture of her in the pink chenille rocker I found. Even better would be if she would wear the hat that matched her outfit. She is not one for leaving a hat on very long, but we had great fun with all the steps in between. Lots of teasing and giggles. Precious memories.

Two of the ways I show that I care for someone are to spend time with them, and to feed them. In the last couple of days I have been able to spend time with, and feed a very young life, and one that is close to going from his weakened body to his mansion. These times have blessed me so much. It is for relationship with God himself and each other that we were made.