Okiboji Writing Conference

 Three days of creative inspiration at the Iowa Lakeside Labs.   Well needed to give me the nudge to write again.  Monday, poetry session with Caleb and Kelsey brought a reminder that poetry can change lives.  Then, on to cresting from chaos-using life turmoil for inspiration.  Next, a session on memoir, where I was given an idea for writing about Dad.

Seeking Snow in July

Escaping the Florida summer heat and humidity has sent us farther into the northwest mountains.  Our stop at Glacier National Park led to a trip on the "Going To The Sun Road".  his narrow, steep and winding mountain road is not drivable with an RV, so we traveled on the park shuttle.  Logan Pass, at the top, has many snow-covered trails.  The snow was slippery in places...thank goodness for our hiking poles.

Traveling west from Montana, through Idaho and into Oregon, we spent one night camping near the Columbia River.  Oregon State Parks are notably the best in the country, and this was no exception.  It was a comfortable night, sleeping with the windows open with a cool breeze.  However, the presence of Oregon's famous Mount Hood beckoned.  We first caught a glimpse of this beauty as we drove west toward Portland.  We drove up the Mount Hood ski area, and were surprised to see the parking lot at Timberline Lodge was full.  There were hikers on the grassy parts of the terrain, and skiers on the snow.  Imagine skiing and snowboarding in July!

Alberta's wildflowers

Waterton Park, just across the border from Glacier National Park is famous for it's floral beauty.  Majestic mountains join with fields of prairie grasses and wildflowers to enhance the view.  Miles and miles of wildflowers, in pinks, purple , yellow and white, appearing as though planted by nature's tossing seeds at random.  Even the roadside fields are dressed in fragrant splendor.

The wild rose is the provincial flower of Alberta, and are seen everywhere.  They blossom all summer, as a reminder to "take time to smell the roses"?

The Prince of Wales Hotel is a historic landmark in the Watertown Village.  This architectural wonder was built in the 1920's to lure tourists north of the U.S. border.  It's location provides a breathtaking view of the Waterton Lake and Mountains.

The Village in Waterton Lake Park lies on the shore of this massive blue lake.  It's color comes from glacier "flour" (small particles of silt that flow into the river and lakes from melting glacial ice.  It was a breezy day when we toured the lakeshore and watched scenic boat tours cruising by.

One of the most picturesque waterfalls is located near a footpath from the center of Waterton Village.  Photos are not capable of capturing the clear water tumbling over a cliff to the rocks below.

 

Yellowstone / Teton Wonders

How can I condense the amazing sights, smells, and sounds of two favorite Wyoming National Parks into a singular blog?  Impossible...but, I will try.
Old Faithful inspires throngs of visitors who gather to wait for her brief, predictable display of power and beauty.  We sat on benches surrounding the geyser viewing area, where I met a charming Korean-American five year old, who was gathering Junior Ranger badges by visiting National Parks.  Yellowstone would be her eighth ranger badge.  As expected, our conversation was interrupted with the steam/water shooting from the Old Faithful geyser.

The majesty of the Grand Tetons continues to inspire visitors.  How awesome are God's works in our land.

Celestial Spring is one of the largest and most colorful thermophile's in the park.

Artist's Point on the south rim of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is another favorite.  On our recent visit, an artist was capturing the image on canvas with oil paints.  He captured the attention of several children who asked many questions about his work.

Crossing the Big Horn Mountains

We chose Alternate Highway 14 to cross the Big Horn Mountains, from Sheridan, Wyoming to Cody.  The last trip we made through this mountain pass was in June, 2011, and this northern road was closed due to heavy snow.  All travelers are requested to read a warning sign before entering Alt 14.  The warning of steep downgrades and sharp curves may discourage some tourists, but not us...especially with me in the driver's seat.  The views were awesome, and we encountered snow along the road at an altitude of around 9000 feet.

On the western side of the Big Horn Mountains lies the town of Cody, Wyoming.  This tourist haven is known for the Buffalo Bill museum and evening rodeos.  We spent a day at the museum during our last trip, so drove west to the Buffalo Bill State Park.  Our campground is at the foot of the mountains, alongside a river.  Around dinner time, four adult antelopes wandered toward the river, on the opposite side of our campsite.  A large flock of Canadian Geese floated by, followed by one lone white pelican, looking for fish in the clear waters.

FMCA Rally in Gillette, Wyoming

After four days of rehearsal, the Frustrated Maestros performed (finally) for the coffee hour.  An enthusiastic crowd of rally participants listened to the two-hour musical session, while feasting on free donuts and coffee.  Dick's trombone solo received a rousing applause.

This rally celebrates 50 years of the Family Motor Coach Association's existence as an organization for motorhome owners and fans.  A display of vintage motorhomes - still enjoyed by their owners is attracting much attention.  Our favorite is this red unit, built on a bus chassis.



Over 2500 motorhomes are here for this 3 day event.  We estimate over 6000 participants enjoying the seminars, displays and entertainment.  Tonight is line dancing, followed by a performance in the amphitheater by The Buckinghams (a country music duo)