May 21 – Letting the Day Come to Us

 

Sprague Lake

     Up early (not sure if we will ever get used to this Mountain Time Zone), and Steve, who was up at 3:30am writing Haiku’s and who knows what else, came up with this fine gem describing Bear Lake and slipping into the snow:



         Winter calms Bear Lake

                  Trekking across frozen snow

                           Leave no shoe behind



         I won’t attempt to say it better; the late afternoon visit to Bear Lake was wonderful; so many animals, birds, snow-laden mountains, good friends, and more. This morning is a bit cloudy and rain is uncertain, but sure as the sun rises, Fall River continues to flow steadily in front of our cabin.

Steve and David take a rest

         Although taking my breath away at many junctures, Steve and I go for a morning mountain walk above our condo. Two huge Elk reclining in the front yard of a home greeted us as we rounded a bend in the road. A Magpie resting on one of them flew off before Steve could get his camera in place. They were so contented, only stared at us as we looked back at them, we each silently saying, “Good morning.”



         Walking along a path, I decided I should attempt a Haiku that describes the experience:



         Walking pine needles

                  Breathing deep, in/out we climb

                           Elk restfully watch

Elk with his winter coat soaking up the sun

Although I am sure our pace was slow by Steve’s standards, it was a good stroll; about a mile in the crisp mountain air. I am getting acclimated to the altitude but there is room for even greater adjustment. Estes Park is at 7,500 feet and in the Park we were often at 8,500 feet. The air is thin.



         After morning coffee and catching up on business back home, we pack up for a picnic, dress in layers, and drive into the Park to Sprague Lake. Like all lakes in the national park it is beautiful but to me its most attractive feature this day is that surrounding it is a very flat, easy to navigate hiking path. The sun keeps peaking through the clouds every now and then providing a kaleidoscope of colors.

Moose enjoy Sprague Lake also

         We stop along the approximately 1.5 mile circumference to take pictures of cute little mountain birds, watch geese flying over the surface, and ducks floating by. The most exciting experience was, by far, a huge Moose (cow) and her baby drinking water along the bank. We took a zillion pictures and hope they capture the enormity of the creatures. Neither mother or child seemed bothered by the presence of humans but nevertheless we kept our distance knowing that mommas protect their young. We were practically the only hikers this day, however, a few others walked dangerously close to the Momma Moose. Idiots!



         Our picnic, beside a flowing creek, was in an ideal setting. Debbie had packed salami, cheese, chips, salsa, grapes, and cherries. All tasted delicious. Although we had wonderful sunshine for the most part, an approaching cloud suggested that the forecasted rain might be in the area so Steve gathered together our trash and, departing the Park, we inspected several other areas before heading into Estes.



         We checked out the Black Canyon resort. Steve and Susan visited there for several days a couple of winters ago attending a wedding; it is strategically located in the “Twin Owls” area behind the Stanley Hotel. Two huge rocks appear to be the twin birds watching over the valley below. We plan to enjoy a meal there some evening soon.



         Naps were in order in the afternoon. I, of course, took the most needed longer one. The sun had returned and Steve and Susan went for a hike along and above the Fall River. Debbie worked, and I rested further. Later in the day Steve joined in a pre-scheduled conference call while the rest of us worked on our appetites.



         “Smokin’ Dave’s” Restaurant, featuring the best BBQ in North America, always crowded, was delicious. Ribs, brisket, pork, chicken and sides cornbread, corn on the cob, coleslaw, smashed potatoes, sweet potato fries, and green beans. Wow, we devoured every last morsel; no wonder it is ranked near the top of all restaurants in the area; this due not only to tourists but also locals – Smokin’ Dave’s fed those who lost their homes following the flood last fall at no charge for three days. Knowing this I complimented the waitress and she confirmed the good will and added, “You would be amazed by how little it was appreciated.” And this with a tone! She was clearly grateful for the recognition, especially from someone from Missouri, who expressed some gratitude.



         We walked the main downtown avenue peering into store windows and inspecting those that were open. We ended up buying t-shirts, sweatshirts, and more. After topping off the evening at an ice cream establishment we headed back to our cabin. What a great day in the mountains.