This photo was taken just a few yards away from my home for the last couple
of days. The wildflower bloom is exquisite right now, with a variety of
paintbrush, lupine, asters, elephant heads, and many many more from which to
choose for one's 'shooting' pleasure. As idyllic and peaceful as this scene
may seem as it is sitting here on the computer screen, it doesn't tell of the adventurous
night we experienced.

I'd like to say that the wind came gently calling last night, but that
wouldn't be quite accurate. Twas more akin to a freight train descending,
blasting our tent with a ferocity that brought the longevity of our
shelter into serious question. I battened down the hatches, and Tazzie and I
snuggled into a little ball beneath the protection of my 20 degree down
sleeping bag. We were warm and safe. The noise and the constant batting
about of my tent fabric was definitely the worst of it.

So, having survived the ever so gusty evening, the sun is just now
creeping into the little cirque that holds this lake and our campsite. It
is still quite blustery, and I had to build a mini rock fortress around
my camp stove to get the silly thing to stay lit. Finally I did
achieve success in that regard and I am awaiting that oh so precious and
vital hot dark liquid to help bring me fully awake so that I can embrace
this gorgeous day that is beginning to unfold all around me.