tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90200443330610172032024-03-13T12:29:40.508-07:00keepin' up with Vicky and SteveVickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.comBlogger175125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-2441754203390205832018-06-27T15:30:00.000-07:002018-06-27T15:30:14.969-07:00Two Medicine <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Today we moved to the East side of the park, where the weather is much nicer. This area is typically drier, but windier, and that proved to be true. We hiked this easy, wheelchair accessible trail to Running Eagle falls. Since it was still spring, there was a lot of snow melt, and so the waterfalls were full and beautiful. Two Medicine is known as the Backbone of the World to the Blackfeet Indians, who used this area for hunting and spiritual quests.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJXpbFodX2P6g_a7SckKbKF6B_zduNfaUIW21rd8my9C9noCR_1Wa9ZPhm49aHWlTfOSy8CFtB2nEkA9ySSWTbBLWqrJwaXf-1BjrGAn9xlROHe8SC0juCC87UFbdyO7gdV_6pMIINCvl/s1600/DSC_0220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipJXpbFodX2P6g_a7SckKbKF6B_zduNfaUIW21rd8my9C9noCR_1Wa9ZPhm49aHWlTfOSy8CFtB2nEkA9ySSWTbBLWqrJwaXf-1BjrGAn9xlROHe8SC0juCC87UFbdyO7gdV_6pMIINCvl/s320/DSC_0220.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3Pd7vsb_vByFjK_7ZYBfRmaxjDUrzsdeKIpmu9qPcrfGTllNy0JLfhcLSFQbp0eHw1PMSxGJE-fBgds60H8S7Ol7I1UD7HKwnVv8Gq7xLHkbc4ZOpRgv9UU-yxANaJZGFj410bGWFYc9/s1600/DSC_0232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL3Pd7vsb_vByFjK_7ZYBfRmaxjDUrzsdeKIpmu9qPcrfGTllNy0JLfhcLSFQbp0eHw1PMSxGJE-fBgds60H8S7Ol7I1UD7HKwnVv8Gq7xLHkbc4ZOpRgv9UU-yxANaJZGFj410bGWFYc9/s320/DSC_0232.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Two Medicine Lake. We hiked along its' shore for about two miles.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlIW9i9AGHR_536TFwx-iltd48mm7oW8_w4WUaxgq5X4Ugt4rmBJUg5wRH3aGQE5N2uMqtS81tHK7QiLaux4Pzds0Nu_7G4DVp816mYAlcS56yrqd9UGjOaBfRJ-CLK0-Hi-YZe8bKPgw/s1600/DSC_0242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDlIW9i9AGHR_536TFwx-iltd48mm7oW8_w4WUaxgq5X4Ugt4rmBJUg5wRH3aGQE5N2uMqtS81tHK7QiLaux4Pzds0Nu_7G4DVp816mYAlcS56yrqd9UGjOaBfRJ-CLK0-Hi-YZe8bKPgw/s320/DSC_0242.JPG" width="320" /></a>Mt. Sinopah is over 8000 ft elevation. It's safe to say we didn't scale it.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimlm-gWIH17pb2VuD3hhzjdZDfpTSxvgk6xu3n9S9v6OegLcWuFHITpgnybt-uju1sQtMCuUCie_Cwx6GH97Mq2dRspqH7vSmuqJPqN5nvfWvpxbKXrMiRz3LWHYLDPhWB3Lw3_8So9UhH/s1600/DSC_0233.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1566" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimlm-gWIH17pb2VuD3hhzjdZDfpTSxvgk6xu3n9S9v6OegLcWuFHITpgnybt-uju1sQtMCuUCie_Cwx6GH97Mq2dRspqH7vSmuqJPqN5nvfWvpxbKXrMiRz3LWHYLDPhWB3Lw3_8So9UhH/s320/DSC_0233.JPG" width="313" /></a>Glacier Lily. We only saw a few of these, but later the fields will be covered with them</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQj3sotmwCfHiVB-fwSfQlURpGlnaXjNQQcHTCrelO_jzURkkMv8ZhbxZpyj35UbCg3Dn_kcgk-SczGMffO4d72iVUsuVi602z1eggsudiO14JsjdHDNqZTMQU1P9aQD-7iKlwsV4vX5P/s1600/DSC_0240.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQj3sotmwCfHiVB-fwSfQlURpGlnaXjNQQcHTCrelO_jzURkkMv8ZhbxZpyj35UbCg3Dn_kcgk-SczGMffO4d72iVUsuVi602z1eggsudiO14JsjdHDNqZTMQU1P9aQD-7iKlwsV4vX5P/s320/DSC_0240.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZgmxduWJMGE4xpz6JXh4odvDjN70nsLyIHHk_mqiUKgKuykjCcPS1xf3vmPoqK-D98yke-eHYuj_Kg-6JcFD5QVu6tVTe7rLWNMvvkl8X-dl2jSURj9C4kgGHYs3WquTb97nGVTrUQdIG/s1600/DSC_0241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZgmxduWJMGE4xpz6JXh4odvDjN70nsLyIHHk_mqiUKgKuykjCcPS1xf3vmPoqK-D98yke-eHYuj_Kg-6JcFD5QVu6tVTe7rLWNMvvkl8X-dl2jSURj9C4kgGHYs3WquTb97nGVTrUQdIG/s320/DSC_0241.JPG" width="320" /></a>The Two Medicine General Store was built by the railroad that originally brought tourists to the area. It's now considered a historic site. The inside is a typical National Park store, complete with a cafe where we ate lunch.</div>
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-2754456984169640642018-06-27T12:58:00.000-07:002018-06-27T12:58:20.483-07:00Going to the Sun road <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnA1IsBZ5do11UhSPUy3cKYIogE_VDu4e-n08QB3xcDjbIw8AKUkO8ul5OEZtjTfvEt4KZYKiE6WmsXmTMLCGXgXFeWyaEfCqVzidE6-RQfca-xeytCBl76a1o70b5Zt33Yk_yz_AgNzhL/s1600/DSC_0248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnA1IsBZ5do11UhSPUy3cKYIogE_VDu4e-n08QB3xcDjbIw8AKUkO8ul5OEZtjTfvEt4KZYKiE6WmsXmTMLCGXgXFeWyaEfCqVzidE6-RQfca-xeytCBl76a1o70b5Zt33Yk_yz_AgNzhL/s320/DSC_0248.JPG" width="214" /></a>Later Tuesday, we drove up Going to the Sun road 17 miles, which was as far as were allowed to drive. Hikers/bikers were encouraged to go an additional 2 miles, so we did that. The road was completely clear, no snow in sight. However, crews were still working on the last few miles that would connect both sides of the park. The snow gets very deep, and they actually have to survey it every year to find the road! At those elevations, the snow would probably never melt on its own, so they have to remove it. Many pieces of heavy equipment are used, and I can understand why they don't want tourists around until their jobs are finished.</div>
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The scenery was incredible! I can't imagine the remaining road looked any better, but I'm told that it does. I guess we'll just have to go back and see for ourselves!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZPsjeRha_uV-jbL5l1taHpibbLlA3k3UmrRoZJ9zy4syNM95eEO26n9_K8yPcJEC0Zsy6S97rrWSCYYraYq5JLSR3XasFFCIo6-3OkGCOvWz4UUJNo2E7yBZHvj4EXSBE6uKgA78Yud6E/s1600/DSC_0254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZPsjeRha_uV-jbL5l1taHpibbLlA3k3UmrRoZJ9zy4syNM95eEO26n9_K8yPcJEC0Zsy6S97rrWSCYYraYq5JLSR3XasFFCIo6-3OkGCOvWz4UUJNo2E7yBZHvj4EXSBE6uKgA78Yud6E/s320/DSC_0254.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSiD6EzbtdXTq-PPfRa2w92qFp-k7zFCRM3j50vFrhuyk52f0tK2Z4AhslNi_NsfRPVjuT57NPe_bXLsaa2XV5OMq05Hkgl1BarEgVJbhzzMOLny9dgh_DW08rhRQMXMvFV-ZcalGVhqSF/s1600/DSC_0259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSiD6EzbtdXTq-PPfRa2w92qFp-k7zFCRM3j50vFrhuyk52f0tK2Z4AhslNi_NsfRPVjuT57NPe_bXLsaa2XV5OMq05Hkgl1BarEgVJbhzzMOLny9dgh_DW08rhRQMXMvFV-ZcalGVhqSF/s320/DSC_0259.JPG" width="320" /></a>Going to the Sun Mountain, elevation 9642 ft.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1RM-udJOz9ZNwdggkXa7ChiJV92WVUjPYdzKwAwTEcLrFK5ZznnmSlyZbzWsSiRRCIS99vj9vGHYTNMtt7ZuCTfgpIpqN94XbglR5o1fSUZXInU-XWscUgqIVZDqeL93uwib_p9dWO8s/s1600/DSC_0261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho1RM-udJOz9ZNwdggkXa7ChiJV92WVUjPYdzKwAwTEcLrFK5ZznnmSlyZbzWsSiRRCIS99vj9vGHYTNMtt7ZuCTfgpIpqN94XbglR5o1fSUZXInU-XWscUgqIVZDqeL93uwib_p9dWO8s/s320/DSC_0261.JPG" width="320" /></a>If you look carefully, you can see a barrier just to the right of the snow patch in the center of the picture. That was the stopping point for law abiding hikers, and there were rangers around to make sure everyone stayed put</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9Z8aGHCKYxd2111-EZwe0hFGq762N_v75lS_olFhzhGvdMyXQZ7ZbJn6XWqVnfN5h1qg5XnD8SfLXOSJr1al0lX9RoWUyiKBs57PG9U6qxx-mg43dTRFkT_eoWJV4eP30UZI1rCzdx2J/s1600/DSC_0263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9Z8aGHCKYxd2111-EZwe0hFGq762N_v75lS_olFhzhGvdMyXQZ7ZbJn6XWqVnfN5h1qg5XnD8SfLXOSJr1al0lX9RoWUyiKBs57PG9U6qxx-mg43dTRFkT_eoWJV4eP30UZI1rCzdx2J/s320/DSC_0263.JPG" width="320" /></a>This is looking back the way we came, and I admit it, I stepped across the barrier to take this picture. Luckily the rangers were all occupied.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFAQXojEZ2i6339UXKMEBBVORSAlnwunAwxzMXv72Q4aU5TmEcqFunPvti4l8bMBrhBRmjNQNaRmdxm8EhKh6Gxk_nLiP7vV5gKHDp7qX-P8MYUYQPAtKiLxnUI54kqCMB3fGll1ndOCDW/s1600/DSC_0264.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFAQXojEZ2i6339UXKMEBBVORSAlnwunAwxzMXv72Q4aU5TmEcqFunPvti4l8bMBrhBRmjNQNaRmdxm8EhKh6Gxk_nLiP7vV5gKHDp7qX-P8MYUYQPAtKiLxnUI54kqCMB3fGll1ndOCDW/s320/DSC_0264.JPG" width="320" /></a>Another view of Going to the Sun mountain.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq8r_2Mfu3iKgRywqGye-HJtTQBf9zBOFDlw_sBH6SJgB5D_TS8eZpUpFDpqCEDtWh-87MVgECqr614KqtTTmwPNGJN2ScQOk4UXbnekP2lcXvOT8OH5eP5xqpz5UM2nBsQzXWVBJb5A_x/s1600/DSC_0266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq8r_2Mfu3iKgRywqGye-HJtTQBf9zBOFDlw_sBH6SJgB5D_TS8eZpUpFDpqCEDtWh-87MVgECqr614KqtTTmwPNGJN2ScQOk4UXbnekP2lcXvOT8OH5eP5xqpz5UM2nBsQzXWVBJb5A_x/s320/DSC_0266.JPG" width="320" /></a>St Mary lake. This is probably one of the most photographed viewpoints in the park, and for good reason.</div>
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-78823245353295896712018-06-25T18:26:00.001-07:002018-06-25T18:26:08.386-07:00<br />
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June 11 Another cloudy day. One of the first things we noticed were these white lady slippers. They are a member of the orchid family, and are quite rare, but these were right by the road. We have pink and yellow ones in Tennessee, but this was my first time to see white ones.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO52lZsrHzZPDxzaq3Z_ivZlDUJ3iZNXXtQtFniktCOCiQOIjdEJYJsnoT2r5MqQyJ6A4TZ037Kh7HGtutIDufPtx1QQEqCExYcuTTAtjDeeNqa2XUq6Ni3NrzenoJbHJtCF4jG4yJcC80/s1600/DSC_0218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO52lZsrHzZPDxzaq3Z_ivZlDUJ3iZNXXtQtFniktCOCiQOIjdEJYJsnoT2r5MqQyJ6A4TZ037Kh7HGtutIDufPtx1QQEqCExYcuTTAtjDeeNqa2XUq6Ni3NrzenoJbHJtCF4jG4yJcC80/s320/DSC_0218.JPG" width="214" /></a></div>
The road going across the park is known as the Going to the Sun road, and usually isn't completely open until late June. We drove up as far as we were allowed, and hiked to Avalanche Lake. Although it was quite cool, we enjoyed the hike. It was one beautiful scene after another. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGm0_St5k6aQ_Oml_RsmM3CZT-BDwmvU8CXb4OK51ruvpocRdSiOGDow3ooSWwZqv8S6arP8BYAnaRSsll2LqluMwFFw4jM6qoO2zjL3YbQCvBnBzTbSqFZK3Hx88Rc6f8hw-k5WHtedyq/s1600/DSC_0193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="996" data-original-width="1600" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGm0_St5k6aQ_Oml_RsmM3CZT-BDwmvU8CXb4OK51ruvpocRdSiOGDow3ooSWwZqv8S6arP8BYAnaRSsll2LqluMwFFw4jM6qoO2zjL3YbQCvBnBzTbSqFZK3Hx88Rc6f8hw-k5WHtedyq/s320/DSC_0193.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We saw this black bear walking parallel to the trail, and apparently unconcerned about the presence of any humans. There was a ranger there for crowd control, but everyone behaved and just enjoyed seeing this beautiful creature.</div>
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-70565165009942552642018-06-23T14:43:00.000-07:002018-06-23T14:43:11.102-07:00West Glacier, Montana<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ogl6plwpCd9j7iSO2gnLt-F_akPGkolLeg3RDbGjllU-pSro4zpPpb1zPpanGKJu9IbI6QMuHy0sO-Avha510YlMABbzgzU_uMnpzaHHw7c2BtVE0m0c6lnHJssqI2fdmNLo1gwthsqa/s1600/IMG_5671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ogl6plwpCd9j7iSO2gnLt-F_akPGkolLeg3RDbGjllU-pSro4zpPpb1zPpanGKJu9IbI6QMuHy0sO-Avha510YlMABbzgzU_uMnpzaHHw7c2BtVE0m0c6lnHJssqI2fdmNLo1gwthsqa/s1600/IMG_5671.JPG" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevpjtgxZQloL-SETTweKcOQp0hYzNnvP-xxsYA9jXn1vSF7LqAjvK1UAThAOepA1BDrp4Yh3kI_6g0nznzrAvMQjdZlRm2kx9qDvONqYJj5Y-Bk-J-WvOvXSdbjThyphenhyphenFYKuOMIApQhyRS4/s1600/IMG_5673.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="166" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhevpjtgxZQloL-SETTweKcOQp0hYzNnvP-xxsYA9jXn1vSF7LqAjvK1UAThAOepA1BDrp4Yh3kI_6g0nznzrAvMQjdZlRm2kx9qDvONqYJj5Y-Bk-J-WvOvXSdbjThyphenhyphenFYKuOMIApQhyRS4/s1600/IMG_5673.JPG" /></a>After serving for 2 weeks at Echo Ranch, we were ready for some R&R. We flew from Juneau AK to Kalispel, MT, rented a car ( which turned out to be a BRAND NEW 4 Runner with 4 miles on it), and drove to Apgar Village on the West side of Glacier National park. I had never here, and Steve had been here as a young teen with his family and didn't remember much, or so he thought....<br />
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We had the tiniest hotel room I have ever seen, but it did have this nice view of MacDonald creek<br />
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The interior of Lake MacDonald Lodge. After the park was formed in 1910 (thank you Teddy Roosevelt!), the Northern Pacific Railroad built several lodges within the park. They all have different themes, and this one highlights the Native Culture.<br />
As we walked in, Steve stopped and said,<br />"I've been here before, I remember this". He said nothing much has changed.<br />
There are Native carvings around the fireplace, which was lit and felt good on a cool day.<br />
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The stones in the floor had Indian words carved into them. This is a local tribes word for Water<br />
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The thriving metropolis of Polebridge, MT. There was a saloon, a general store(which turned out to have a pretty good bakery/sandwich shop), and some rental cabins. It was miles from anywhere!<br />
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The inside of the general store. Prices were definitely high!<br />
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We drove even further north, and hiked along the shores of Bowman Lake.What the rental car company doesn't know, won't hurt them!<br />
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Since we were there so early in the season, many trails were not open yet, so we had to choose carefully.<br />
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These trilliums are very similar to the ones we have here in the Smokies. They start out white and turn pink as they age. <br />
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Although the weather remained cloudy,it was still beautiful!Every time I turned around, I was saying, oh my gosh, would you look at that! There was a beautiful scene at every turn of the road.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNIO9CjzTMgJLjh9-cqoSr9sfccbi3YHdCXY0HwudRQ2t7634XZ9dq8gTaR-w3T1RgmZQFITRvhaXrRj-K0p_mjfWHxr2eG3ztn1GZ5oFvOwglA_uWPRg3DcULbwVNWWDhEkY8oKX7QBxN/s1600/DSC_0149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNIO9CjzTMgJLjh9-cqoSr9sfccbi3YHdCXY0HwudRQ2t7634XZ9dq8gTaR-w3T1RgmZQFITRvhaXrRj-K0p_mjfWHxr2eG3ztn1GZ5oFvOwglA_uWPRg3DcULbwVNWWDhEkY8oKX7QBxN/s320/DSC_0149.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-24723476018242343002018-06-22T17:19:00.000-07:002018-06-22T18:15:39.220-07:00Echo Ranch Bible Camp<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBXq_-6rA8eQNTku-4E4OLeMDVpVSGgA0u5uL-4eqFsErl786Y_5-bP-5IA4ovbJh4of9YhtgEJIy2Tk-5ysUsncqXuUIjM_rmDBCJxwUUKuD9JPl_gbG6-2Iik3uyuUxj5lV5xJK2Nb0Z/s1600/IMG_5644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBXq_-6rA8eQNTku-4E4OLeMDVpVSGgA0u5uL-4eqFsErl786Y_5-bP-5IA4ovbJh4of9YhtgEJIy2Tk-5ysUsncqXuUIjM_rmDBCJxwUUKuD9JPl_gbG6-2Iik3uyuUxj5lV5xJK2Nb0Z/s1600/IMG_5644.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMAKqoFzDHato-KXLRN6_R4u5SAN2uqUEzRuT27iRhs7PGZlpPKSHTOUtGZRa9DfSGJKFRKBTGrxhmcDFiDQq-0oybC-MS1MtWhYhl8hwl8lFpi1gtmdSX_gQALsz6zSJJOlwBHVZrBUrx/s1600/DSC_0086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMAKqoFzDHato-KXLRN6_R4u5SAN2uqUEzRuT27iRhs7PGZlpPKSHTOUtGZRa9DfSGJKFRKBTGrxhmcDFiDQq-0oybC-MS1MtWhYhl8hwl8lFpi1gtmdSX_gQALsz6zSJJOlwBHVZrBUrx/s320/DSC_0086.JPG" width="320" /></a>Steve and I spent 2 weeks volunteering at Echo Ranch Bible Camp, about an hour north of Juneau, AK in late May-early June 2018. We spent 1 week here in 2017, and were so impressed with the ministry here that we decided to return. I worked in the kitchen, and Steve completed a variety of projects, including this tower for the zip line. I made these cream puff cakes for dessert one night. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hW2Z6YmOEBjLLg-iZNOCxrKC7580h-ckDXDUjkIR8UaTYnPfKElm3Jy6HTyNBYRWwCHorefEE3xZwzd4derr0HfdZlK8foSoCK2tvDaFQ6pxAoKB1YtMAdip4k_RImHc2ut6qvtEafyt/s1600/IMG_5668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="123" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-hW2Z6YmOEBjLLg-iZNOCxrKC7580h-ckDXDUjkIR8UaTYnPfKElm3Jy6HTyNBYRWwCHorefEE3xZwzd4derr0HfdZlK8foSoCK2tvDaFQ6pxAoKB1YtMAdip4k_RImHc2ut6qvtEafyt/s1600/IMG_5668.JPG" /></a>The view of Echo cove from the dining hall. We saw whales swimming in the bay several times.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqAsiYCYZ7PHNJ7Z21pNBt-2KV25CxFsv2cL8p4bP82VhNEuhAz7vJrV5IM84BRFP-eI6mPpqulUnEZWuT3PgkOfE2OLyWmp92C1TAPBpSMmcIMWAr6x2XTyz_L3bxM6Qj-FnQpM9u5xWP/s1600/IMG_5586.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="108" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqAsiYCYZ7PHNJ7Z21pNBt-2KV25CxFsv2cL8p4bP82VhNEuhAz7vJrV5IM84BRFP-eI6mPpqulUnEZWuT3PgkOfE2OLyWmp92C1TAPBpSMmcIMWAr6x2XTyz_L3bxM6Qj-FnQpM9u5xWP/s1600/IMG_5586.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB5Ek8rV6N_DpQrG7XwbBtdh6eOpAzMmgd3spLFH9MmoEOFFIYU5KqUj8ZUh7CkXJXMmiyu7eyQfcYkjEl6PfcVb_-K1BrYWD_-BUUEhfO1MW6rHB2sQid4kKBZngkWDSzjdG27d-ZYI5a/s1600/IMG_5584.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB5Ek8rV6N_DpQrG7XwbBtdh6eOpAzMmgd3spLFH9MmoEOFFIYU5KqUj8ZUh7CkXJXMmiyu7eyQfcYkjEl6PfcVb_-K1BrYWD_-BUUEhfO1MW6rHB2sQid4kKBZngkWDSzjdG27d-ZYI5a/s1600/IMG_5584.JPG" /></a>The camp is a traditional kid's camp, with cabins, bathhouses, a dining hall, gym and chapel. They host around 100 campers each week, and most come from SouthEast Alaska. Many have had NO exposure to the Gospel, and have no concept of who Jesus is.<br />
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This was the view from the cabin where we stayed. It was quite basic, but the view made up for it! </div>
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The camp has about 20 horses, and campers and sometimes volunteers are allowed to ride. Naturally I was quick to say yes.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmNajnGVp5Xti0fwHRZfEoucLLPc4lsS9qql6CKHUTRSd2EXpIpWysGLkzorCmDpvHIK1UeZNBY3FqZbqLb4b4zcX0Kz19iu9awjDRot56iRdtkpqwhrfxeMJz02X8c4ysAGSSfO60iP5/s1600/IMG_5660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGmNajnGVp5Xti0fwHRZfEoucLLPc4lsS9qql6CKHUTRSd2EXpIpWysGLkzorCmDpvHIK1UeZNBY3FqZbqLb4b4zcX0Kz19iu9awjDRot56iRdtkpqwhrfxeMJz02X8c4ysAGSSfO60iP5/s1600/IMG_5660.JPG" /></a></div>
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They also have a Wilderness Camp which is even more isolated and rustic. This is our friend Austin, and Steve walking to the wilderness camp.</div>
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Steve and I on the Wilderness Camp Road.<br />
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We're almost there! The final step to the Wilderness camp was this Trolley across the river. </div>
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This is our friends Mary and Susy. They are sisters from Ohio, and came to volunteer just like we did. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3tW7hher55sN_VIEhRlqYP6HGDwlw1SLFryPZPFSd-kcYvJQJLiffJ_4227Mvj2Cwi7h1OK46a41aKOkFQYFr70X-QMcappj29LLLxU9r95Q8OyiuRN0PqiZMNyNYgXOjKlisddmWCg7/s1600/DSC_0108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid3tW7hher55sN_VIEhRlqYP6HGDwlw1SLFryPZPFSd-kcYvJQJLiffJ_4227Mvj2Cwi7h1OK46a41aKOkFQYFr70X-QMcappj29LLLxU9r95Q8OyiuRN0PqiZMNyNYgXOjKlisddmWCg7/s320/DSC_0108.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
One of the wilderness camp cabins. The dandelions were very healthy, and so were the mosquitoes! Although these were very scenic, and are used during the summer, we are thankful<br />
that our cabin was just a bit more modern. (only a bit!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR5c-Y3aPANxxPKjnHyyNY_FlK0C2L4wSi7LgJKOC8XC4MxM6aozwULW_ht_JZXw8pLZGGn0HqldZbIVGP1VBhj0IEVmpIId4f0XTotf1wFGxAvH7JkxQQA7DOpzeMdTajroYUNLsu7tsf/s1600/IMG_5617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR5c-Y3aPANxxPKjnHyyNY_FlK0C2L4wSi7LgJKOC8XC4MxM6aozwULW_ht_JZXw8pLZGGn0HqldZbIVGP1VBhj0IEVmpIId4f0XTotf1wFGxAvH7JkxQQA7DOpzeMdTajroYUNLsu7tsf/s1600/IMG_5617.jpg" /></a>You have to look closely, but there are 3 black bears that we saw on the way back from Wilderness Camp! They were pretty far away, and we weren't in any danger.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiPa-0LF8RB02Vlwnu68ErhlvSvTXv4dquoVqZ7IBcJcJ-BRpVbYYnzzKIWXa_eHUB9e_c_1PxfjteuaBNLhQ2l61DZ5xH3e6-8Z7W_gYvTd2R3MMmZDM5Xik5wdJaWV6TLwH1mjoZfPT/s1600/DSC_0110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1072" data-original-width="1600" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiPa-0LF8RB02Vlwnu68ErhlvSvTXv4dquoVqZ7IBcJcJ-BRpVbYYnzzKIWXa_eHUB9e_c_1PxfjteuaBNLhQ2l61DZ5xH3e6-8Z7W_gYvTd2R3MMmZDM5Xik5wdJaWV6TLwH1mjoZfPT/s320/DSC_0110.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The camp is literately at the "end of the road", then you have to take a boat, or if it is low tide, and you have a sturdy truck, you can drive in. Although it is a challenge to get there, it's well worth it for these views!<br />
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Shooting stars. We have these in Tennessee, but they are white, and very rare. There were fields of these purple ones in AK, and I thought they were just beautiful<br />
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Skunk Cabbage. This is supposedly edible, but it smelled so bad, that I would have to be pretty hungry to try it. On the right are Forget-Me-Nots, Alaska's state flower<br />
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-57074284205411379002018-06-22T16:48:00.000-07:002018-06-22T17:45:05.704-07:00Ringing the bell!Apparently I had good intentions, but never actually finished this post. Its now almost 2 years later, and I am doing well. I've had several checkups, and all went well. I am so thankful! I decided to go ahead and publish this post anyway, to keep some continuity.<br />
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Well, it's been a while. Chemo does have a way of sidelining a person! But the good news is, I'm done! I finished chemo on June 28, and my granddaughter Anna Caroline, was born that same day. Although I tolerated chemo well, it was very difficult and I hope I don't have to go through that ever again! My hair is growing back and is about 2" long. After a lengthy battle with the insurance company, I was approved to receive Proton Therapy at Provision in Knoxville TN, and have been doing that for the past 6 weeks. Today I finished! The only side effects from this treatment is some skin burning ( like a sunburn) and some tiredness. I do still have to receive Herceptin every three weeks until next March, and there is a pill I will be starting soon, but I definitely feel like I at the end of a very long journey.<br />
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Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-68184576318615737562016-01-28T08:35:00.000-08:002016-01-28T08:35:00.554-08:00I just went back and reread everyone's comments, and prayers, and I have to say I am blown away by everyone's concern! Thank you all so much! Your encouragement, love and prayers mean so much to me.<br />
I am doing well. My first chemo treatment was Jan 15, and that went well. My mom went with me and waited on me hand and foot, and if I didn't need her she was helping out others in the center that had no one with them! Then when I got home Steve did the same thing. I had a few days of being very tired, and I still get tired easily. I am happy to report that the anti nausea meds that they give you work very well! I only needed to take them for a few days, and I was happy to stop because they can make one lightheaded and driving is definitely not recommended while taking them. But believe me, I would have taken them for as long as I needed them! I also received a series of shots to boost my immune system, and my insurance approved me for Neulasta, which does the same thing, but in only one shot with fewer side effects. I'll get that the day after my next chemo treatment.<br />
I still have my hair, for the moment anyway. It could fall out any day now, or it could hang in there for a few weeks. There doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason to what people have experienced. I talked to one woman who lost hers within a week of starting treatment, and another that finished chemo, then woke up a few days later with a pillow full of hair. The only certainly is that it will fall out at some point. <br />
I am still considered immune suppressed, and will be for some time. I have to be very careful about what I eat, and where I go. Basically I can't eat anything raw unless I can wash it myself, no buffet lines, potlucks, salad bars or anything prepackaged. Goodbye, bagged salad! I also have to avoid crowds, and obviously anyone who is even slightly under the weather. Soap and hand sanitizer are my best friends these days.<br />
My next chemo treatment is Feb 5, and hopefully I will tolerate that one as well as I did this last one. The following weekend we are planning to go to TN for about 10 days, and while we are there, check out this facility http://provisionproton.com/about-us Proton therapy takes the place of traditional radiation, and there are fewer side effects and much less chance of damage to surrounding organs. Since my heart is right under where the tumor was, this is a big concern. I have been in contact with them and the possibility of being treated there is looking promising. <br />
Again, thank you for your calls, emails, texts, and visits. Keep them coming. If it's not a good day, I promise I will tell you!Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-19995963694189825472016-01-17T17:14:00.000-08:002016-01-17T17:14:36.553-08:00Short hair In preparation for the next side effect of chemo (hair loss), I decided to get my hair cut very short. My sweet hairdresser, Bonnie, met me at her shop on a Sunday, so I wouldn't be exposed to everyone's germs. I haven't had hair this short since I was about 10!<br />
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Goodbye, Long hair!<br />
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Time lapse video of the process<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOihqUX_r6T472BZAnV85OSKWwIxQfgniavpwXQ5z-VvsWSIYeHtU6vmjmSNxC5_1v1i_nBmRKXRmGwVouGy25GvOC7V6NQy87af0rMdpJAGwMDucwGQ14vOU_DVwNC_zYm150e1NbE1W8/s1600/chemo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOihqUX_r6T472BZAnV85OSKWwIxQfgniavpwXQ5z-VvsWSIYeHtU6vmjmSNxC5_1v1i_nBmRKXRmGwVouGy25GvOC7V6NQy87af0rMdpJAGwMDucwGQ14vOU_DVwNC_zYm150e1NbE1W8/s320/chemo+3.JPG" width="240" /></a>The result! I actually like it a lot better than I thought I would. </div>
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Tonight, Steve gave me this cap that he has been working on for quite a while. He managed to get both kids, their spouses, and all 5 grandkids to trace their handprints, and put their names on this hat. Once my hair falls out completely, I am told that I will feel cold at night, since normally hair would keep my head warm. So a sleep hat is recommended. The front of the hat says "Prayers for GiGi" How comforting it will be to fall asleep with the hands of my loved ones on me!<br />
<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-3288056820275073502016-01-14T13:30:00.001-08:002016-01-14T13:30:26.295-08:00Next step on the journeyTomorrow , Friday, I will begin the next step on the road to a cure. Chemo is scheduled to begin at 9:30 and will probably take most of the day. The oncologist ordered 3 different nausea medications and I plan to take them as directed. I sure don't want to feel sick!<br />
Am I nervous? Yes, a little bit, but more than that I am impatient to start this process so I can be finished. Most people have told me that it wasn't as bad as they expected. I will lose my hair in about 10 days, so I am getting it cut short in the next day or two. I already have a wig, which looks remarkably like my real hair.<br />
I am thankful for modern medicine, which means I have the drugs at my disposal to fight this disease, and a method of early detection, to catch the cancer before it spreads.<br />
I am thankful for the support of family and friends. Everyone, even relative strangers, have been so supportive and helpful. I know that I am on the prayer list at at least 8 churches, and I'll take all the prayers anyone wants to offer!<br />
I am thankful that we have good insurance coverage, in spite of the fact that I really don't like dealing with them. Several of the drugs that I'll be taking are not approved in countries with socialized medicine because they are too expensive. If you want them, you pay yourself. <br />
I will update this as I am able, and in the meantime, I welcome prayers, calls, and texts. Visits too if you are local, but please call first in case it's not a good day.Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-28401316736364839852016-01-13T06:33:00.000-08:002016-01-13T06:33:22.384-08:00When your life is turned upside down...How quickly a routine medical checkup can turn into a life changing diagnosis! After a long several weeks of mammograms, ultrasounds, and a biopsy, I was diagnosed with breast cancer just before Thanksgiving. I was immediately referred to an oncologist, a surgeon, and a radiation oncologist, and spent the next several days alternating between walking around in shock, and making/keeping doctors appointments. Our first appointment was with an oncologist, and I found out that not only did I have cancer, but that I was estrogen receptor positive, and HER2 positive, both of which can make the cancer more aggressive, making chemo a necessity. I was really hoping to avoid that! I'll also have 4 weeks of radiation following the chemo, and a pill I have to take for a very long time.<br />
The good news is that a lumpectomy was recommended, not a mastectomy, and I had that and a lymph node removal done Dec 9. I had my followup two days before Christmas, and there is no lymph node involvement, and the surgeon got all of the tumor. Best news I've had in a long time! This news doesn't really change the treatment, but there is a better chance for long term success now.<br />
I had a port installed on Jan 7, to make receiving the chemo treatments easier. Chemo is very hard on veins, and mine are not good to begin with, so a port was the way to go. I will begin chemo as soon as the insurance company authorizes the treatment. I don't expect any problem with that, it just takes time. <br />
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What I've learned:<br />
God gives us all a certain number of days, and only He knows what they are. We can improve our chances somewhat by our behavior, but ultimately He decides. It's up to me to make the most of my days. Whether I live 1 more day, or 30 more years, I want to be greeted in heaven with the words, Well done, my good and faithful servant.<br />
Fear is not from God! <br />
I have real hope in Jesus Christ! There was a time right after my diagnosis, that I couldn't even find the words to pray in any way that made sense. That Sunday our pastor mentioned that when that happens, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, and prays when we can't. Donnie had no idea of our situation, but somehow he knew to say that.<br />
Chemo brain is a real syndrome, and it starts the minute you find out that you have to have it. I can't remember squat these days! I see a lot of list making in my future.<br />
I was reminded that I have the best family and friends on the planet! Especially my sweet husband, who has taken so many days off work, and comes home and listens to me ramble on about whatever I've learned about treatment that day. Everyone has been so supportive, and it's hard to really express my gratitude.Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-28021849183985927012015-06-22T16:18:00.000-07:002015-06-22T16:18:34.433-07:00Wet Bottoms Trail<br />
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After our epic hike on Monday, we were not in any shape for anything too ambitious for the rest of the week. However, we were feeling the for a bit of activity, so we decided to check out Wet Bottoms Trail in Cades Cove. This is a 1 mile long trail that connects Cooper Road trail with the Abrams Falls trail. It would be a great trail to take small children on. Grandkids, are you listening? Parts of it would probably be stroller friendly, but not the whole thing. For such a short trail, there is a lot to see. You pass by a barn, the Elijah Oliver homestead, and finish at the Abrams Falls trailhead, where there is a nice stream to cool your feet. An added bonus was the beautiful rhododendron blooming.</div>
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This was an upscale cabin with several glass windows and multiple rooms. <br />
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The springhouse<br />
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-68018566905290241702015-06-17T12:16:00.000-07:002015-06-17T12:16:00.196-07:00Who goes to Cape Cod in January?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
1/30/15 A Pappy and Gigi who miss their grandkids, that's who! We found a good price for the flight, and were lucky to get in and out between snowstorms. We were there for the Super Bowl, which the Patriots won, so it was a good time for all! </div>
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Obviously I'm very behind on posting, but I want to remember the trip, so bear with me</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglAKFlbTOVwdlgWmI75ONmrJlBQ37-1XXi2OkRvjTFdaOZsLc4lMXwotxNQbBIFpQSsGsva74xt0iXBWFRYgEd-TOIxSoEGb26JS-Ef-VOpZYTtXc_P_hXtow7XqfPEZAhTfFcNFVoLNI0/s1600/IMG_1604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglAKFlbTOVwdlgWmI75ONmrJlBQ37-1XXi2OkRvjTFdaOZsLc4lMXwotxNQbBIFpQSsGsva74xt0iXBWFRYgEd-TOIxSoEGb26JS-Ef-VOpZYTtXc_P_hXtow7XqfPEZAhTfFcNFVoLNI0/s320/IMG_1604.jpg" width="240" /></a>Josiah is learning from the master!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkR43KJs1PINorKIqvE3AR_zh7hIdalTGWQPC32gi3zDgexkiv6IEchBN8Udmhc6ehHCFkt27YxHU_gVGjN01CQPQedKlSYP5KSEeOWsPv7rf36R5miXB34Ii7ZmkSDExpspErPRxXaSMb/s1600/IMG_1627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkR43KJs1PINorKIqvE3AR_zh7hIdalTGWQPC32gi3zDgexkiv6IEchBN8Udmhc6ehHCFkt27YxHU_gVGjN01CQPQedKlSYP5KSEeOWsPv7rf36R5miXB34Ii7ZmkSDExpspErPRxXaSMb/s320/IMG_1627.jpg" width="240" /></a>These kids love each other so much! It's wonderful to see how good Sarah and Josiah are with Lydia.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2X5JU3_JVH85ZVS-_hAkgkaGJIYfLgm7XHZEtcfsuCzQurhzAL-cldQpJvysntI5_1GgnNUq-2wlBVBsk9CylYnkHhagguf3yQs1x60XfokMXJizsTX0Pwo12Ms21vITwiKLLzxrtWQR-/s1600/Josiah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2X5JU3_JVH85ZVS-_hAkgkaGJIYfLgm7XHZEtcfsuCzQurhzAL-cldQpJvysntI5_1GgnNUq-2wlBVBsk9CylYnkHhagguf3yQs1x60XfokMXJizsTX0Pwo12Ms21vITwiKLLzxrtWQR-/s320/Josiah.jpg" width="213" /></a>They had a lot of snow! It was over 3 feet deep in their yard. Fortunately the city keeps the streets plowed, so getting around wasn't a problem. Both of these snow pictures were taken by David.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6JAeLMsaIWjQt-CRorOnq-nn0sk5GmmAIr2sr_8CizlaxkkJ_etUPDPT86YNfHutnDGfJR-bZx2QI3gbK4E7GMdexsyFdqBA4lfiSFHmYpg1I7n8OQSb48FkXzSf_pkeHsAQ4od01WPd/s1600/Sarah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6JAeLMsaIWjQt-CRorOnq-nn0sk5GmmAIr2sr_8CizlaxkkJ_etUPDPT86YNfHutnDGfJR-bZx2QI3gbK4E7GMdexsyFdqBA4lfiSFHmYpg1I7n8OQSb48FkXzSf_pkeHsAQ4od01WPd/s320/Sarah.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX1bZLPTPLA6JeWkq9ee8Oet-X21JgTJVae1KWHAKs2S3M49bq43EO5pUUnMeDEuZvX6PmlpLsZBEW_0b08fT7PMw_UCcW3LvTQ93nvKGELGJOJyuJug5-HhAhz_8VPA12wQynT5EhUuTS/s1600/the+girls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX1bZLPTPLA6JeWkq9ee8Oet-X21JgTJVae1KWHAKs2S3M49bq43EO5pUUnMeDEuZvX6PmlpLsZBEW_0b08fT7PMw_UCcW3LvTQ93nvKGELGJOJyuJug5-HhAhz_8VPA12wQynT5EhUuTS/s320/the+girls.jpg" width="320" /></a>My girls!</div>
<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-5309664833504637342015-06-16T18:28:00.000-07:002015-06-16T18:28:00.399-07:00Lower Mt. Camerer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
5/25/15 Today we hiked the Lower Mt Camerer Trail from Cosby Campground to Campsite 35, with a short side trip to Sutton Ridge, for a total of 7.4 miles. Although long, it was a fairly easy trail. The mountain laurel were in full bloom, and I don't think I've ever seen so many of them. It was like walking through a tunnel of flowers. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJCg02SMrAlaJg0dZ_egPoaNIaxgQZ58YLLwAXAGzBHmdi-BbLBeT1Yo7qyMLZmZFx8qYdPt2UoKWnkj-WTlq_duHiv4lK8aQvnx5UuI3nmqq8cU5I69-W5vvRQRou1bBo_FZvJZTRJNZg/s1600/IMG_1437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJCg02SMrAlaJg0dZ_egPoaNIaxgQZ58YLLwAXAGzBHmdi-BbLBeT1Yo7qyMLZmZFx8qYdPt2UoKWnkj-WTlq_duHiv4lK8aQvnx5UuI3nmqq8cU5I69-W5vvRQRou1bBo_FZvJZTRJNZg/s320/IMG_1437.JPG" width="240" /></a>The ladies; Gina, Vicky, Alice, Mary Ann</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5qnBXwu1ZoW-p1A81YSwODF1-F6iLdMUWPb8YuC_Qrwh3DPN8-G7b0_2pVXaxkmpaK1ZZ_t6YsoHEEB5IW3JvWYmvsAEgs4V_564I9P6RPyTOn5TsrjGfcmwh_SUNNf3JmEU3Moa1h-6/s1600/IMG_1442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5qnBXwu1ZoW-p1A81YSwODF1-F6iLdMUWPb8YuC_Qrwh3DPN8-G7b0_2pVXaxkmpaK1ZZ_t6YsoHEEB5IW3JvWYmvsAEgs4V_564I9P6RPyTOn5TsrjGfcmwh_SUNNf3JmEU3Moa1h-6/s320/IMG_1442.JPG" width="320" /></a>The hammock garden at the backcountry campsite. If we take a long hike, we definitely stop for a rest in the middle of the day. One tree had 3 hammocks attached to it. Gina in front, Vicky on left, and Alice on right. Mary Ann is in the background</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkVyLda0ayNZbHzgR2bHpYwf5PGvuklfYDe6YhMRGxMnpvof4-ocD9yTwxPEZ-oNCGUmR8YALRkNK-YpaW_O5OpbrNNK2RX_iD9pb8xdP9-6zcuTID8FF9fnf-s7ReLSENAbv3QPcvyGOP/s1600/2015-05-25+10.59.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkVyLda0ayNZbHzgR2bHpYwf5PGvuklfYDe6YhMRGxMnpvof4-ocD9yTwxPEZ-oNCGUmR8YALRkNK-YpaW_O5OpbrNNK2RX_iD9pb8xdP9-6zcuTID8FF9fnf-s7ReLSENAbv3QPcvyGOP/s320/2015-05-25+10.59.54.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkAbfHvxryFCqfylMgyiDRnFjvJKA5yBfG_yv7ZDks9l6bjvHI3ptyyCS5Lsgrj3wEo4bQ6SITzjHEe9Ju3eicObx3KPBLBuF4NeNreX8XUGt2ufc8IFKRLVWebRg-zQz4RMvpb8c4P8bQ/s1600/2015-05-25+11.12.31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkAbfHvxryFCqfylMgyiDRnFjvJKA5yBfG_yv7ZDks9l6bjvHI3ptyyCS5Lsgrj3wEo4bQ6SITzjHEe9Ju3eicObx3KPBLBuF4NeNreX8XUGt2ufc8IFKRLVWebRg-zQz4RMvpb8c4P8bQ/s320/2015-05-25+11.12.31.jpg" width="240" /></a>Squaw Root. Although considered a wildflower, it is parasitic and has no chlorophyll. It's one of the first things to come out in the spring, and is an important food source for bears. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigRGIYWderDu787MzWrEL0LyPLBrlxzQ5UbnjcjIhE-amQRGXBJkpSxWUeNE4bViHOfxGPZTECI6lSvi1SsycmvugQifQc7-zOg3ZtjtO7Ki5TDaG4SKnSBRlwVOOg7eUB1R8pFKLboqpH/s1600/2015-05-25+11.27.48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigRGIYWderDu787MzWrEL0LyPLBrlxzQ5UbnjcjIhE-amQRGXBJkpSxWUeNE4bViHOfxGPZTECI6lSvi1SsycmvugQifQc7-zOg3ZtjtO7Ki5TDaG4SKnSBRlwVOOg7eUB1R8pFKLboqpH/s320/2015-05-25+11.27.48.jpg" width="276" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHRHaRCHsGN333-P4gmxOjMXsXy-uUIeAY1rR33ds2eesed9C5y0pmHZaPUt_swiHOX8yqm3Ebyh4qa0pmknbD0b4CjkrfX-mjIifUZJ9GxTN7-AWjieMAdbTySIy0KRtwtCfGpAFDy_Pq/s1600/2015-05-25+11.35.39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHRHaRCHsGN333-P4gmxOjMXsXy-uUIeAY1rR33ds2eesed9C5y0pmHZaPUt_swiHOX8yqm3Ebyh4qa0pmknbD0b4CjkrfX-mjIifUZJ9GxTN7-AWjieMAdbTySIy0KRtwtCfGpAFDy_Pq/s320/2015-05-25+11.35.39.jpg" width="240" /></a>Mountain Laurel tunnel.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxX8Uh638u-nhAEpK34jU1bv7Cjn-zQO8md9aVOvqbmJtdR7_lu2FeRgzOL5HYDMcun2Ogv1ptCgE2gH6sHVzyKLjmn8FcIRwBWPfL0NFmpkAaUx6UTYkMWmywFa7VsSi7Vmny5tEiLev-/s1600/Mt+Camerer+group.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxX8Uh638u-nhAEpK34jU1bv7Cjn-zQO8md9aVOvqbmJtdR7_lu2FeRgzOL5HYDMcun2Ogv1ptCgE2gH6sHVzyKLjmn8FcIRwBWPfL0NFmpkAaUx6UTYkMWmywFa7VsSi7Vmny5tEiLev-/s320/Mt+Camerer+group.jpg" width="320" /></a>Gina & Vicky in front, back l-r :Hank, Mary Ann, Alice, John, Larry, Steve</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw1Nq6_xOhrek4XU9mZaajIQy39PFo1oT3o2bal1niCsEIAomb0aFIhQJONv-7t2Pd-UnYBpegJXC89U_T_eeXYRv_8ZcfVRYrAWbnLx1-lIwaoNnYDYUENG8_hvER1RPXOon5qcqSkSUr/s1600/Mt+Camerer+selfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw1Nq6_xOhrek4XU9mZaajIQy39PFo1oT3o2bal1niCsEIAomb0aFIhQJONv-7t2Pd-UnYBpegJXC89U_T_eeXYRv_8ZcfVRYrAWbnLx1-lIwaoNnYDYUENG8_hvER1RPXOon5qcqSkSUr/s320/Mt+Camerer+selfie.jpg" width="320" /></a>How many people can you get in a selfie?</div>
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My thanks to Gina for the last 2 pictures.</div>
<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-24281242449368886602015-06-16T12:27:00.000-07:002015-06-16T12:27:35.915-07:00Gregory Bald Hike<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqaJVSjmP0_4qXi5WVskT9Ft8FL0cmT-yDvmTkU1-ymSl-e2Xor2PL6Oj0lrbNeg8vGX4b0OiAX1d42vakLMKloYll5Y-oVkc8_3T1IyK3loIXJVTotNhCyTkm1_sqf8ocfRVX7-D090S/s1600/IMG_2024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZqaJVSjmP0_4qXi5WVskT9Ft8FL0cmT-yDvmTkU1-ymSl-e2Xor2PL6Oj0lrbNeg8vGX4b0OiAX1d42vakLMKloYll5Y-oVkc8_3T1IyK3loIXJVTotNhCyTkm1_sqf8ocfRVX7-D090S/s320/IMG_2024.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front: John, Vicky<br />
Back :Hank, Gina, Cindy, Sam, Steve, Bill</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh37mra7SW49z2xKsMu0i1LrCXwNIDb3rXWmsf6rak8tB-lm_i-SJvmLdTpJNNWzTIZGi0WQkDnMSS9__Rccn5VQu7d4lRBnTnNHF-oQKfRD_ps_WKSV2iy2AVQtTlj1Wvt6vnqypcZ8C23/s1600/IMG_2033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh37mra7SW49z2xKsMu0i1LrCXwNIDb3rXWmsf6rak8tB-lm_i-SJvmLdTpJNNWzTIZGi0WQkDnMSS9__Rccn5VQu7d4lRBnTnNHF-oQKfRD_ps_WKSV2iy2AVQtTlj1Wvt6vnqypcZ8C23/s320/IMG_2033.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
6/15/2015 We had been looking forward to this hike for ages! Of course the trail can be hiked any time of year, but we specifically wanted to go in mid-June, because the flame azaleas are blooming then. <br />
The hike actually started the night before, when we gathered for a delicious spaghetti dinner at Hank and Margaret's house. Carb-loading to the max! I think we all ate too much!<br />
A funny side story, when I uploaded the photo the right to Facebook, it immediately zeroed in on my face, and identified me as my daughter, Jacki. Way to start the day!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5HIXYztReu7QbIBn6wd-7DbqRgotbYXsgZBAZ9y932IENr9bUa7LJsSpcwV3014bbR_pCnKdp_a3Hgzzn6-4Nbg514RSKY3U3J76rN0o4eOfAkhJLifPXbQHypLVH0KsahroEWFrC8PT/s1600/IMG_2035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5HIXYztReu7QbIBn6wd-7DbqRgotbYXsgZBAZ9y932IENr9bUa7LJsSpcwV3014bbR_pCnKdp_a3Hgzzn6-4Nbg514RSKY3U3J76rN0o4eOfAkhJLifPXbQHypLVH0KsahroEWFrC8PT/s320/IMG_2035.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John, Gina, Hank, Sam, Cindy, Vicky, Steve</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ4oYsslDWlAFaffRRB11H7S_azWa7FCeVOMDpu4BLenKKhLew2DANSTa_F2n57kQxFBMwSsm72qcnUlMaFpW6gaanyaur8IZdpviMJikhHEzy7fZL70Xp1qt12WuW04vFXDa6LWOtiWLt/s1600/DSC_1163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ4oYsslDWlAFaffRRB11H7S_azWa7FCeVOMDpu4BLenKKhLew2DANSTa_F2n57kQxFBMwSsm72qcnUlMaFpW6gaanyaur8IZdpviMJikhHEzy7fZL70Xp1qt12WuW04vFXDa6LWOtiWLt/s320/DSC_1163.JPG" width="320" /></a>There are two ways to get to Gregory Bald, and neither one is easy! We chose the shorter, less steep route that involved more driving. Gina's husband, Bill was recovering from knee surgery and not hiking yet, however he was cleared to drive. He graciously agreed to drop us off at the Trailhead, drive many miles along a winding gravel road, kill some time, and meet us at Twentymile ranger station late that afternoon. As we turned onto Parson's Branch Road, we were greeted the by furry fellow above. He wasn't too concerned by our presence. We left the house at 6:45 and were on the trail by 8:30.<br />
We hiked to a backcountry campsite near the bald, and left our packs there. The park service provides a cable system to hang packs and anything that might contain food, out of the reach of bears. It's harder than it looks to hoist those packs up high! We felt it was important, since we had already seen one bear, and seen lots of "calling cards" on the trail. We walked another 1/2 mile( the steepest part of the whole trail) to the bald, spent some time there and came back for lunch and a rest.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5ezwUYbhpdA5EqcS_4hxZ_gzt7hiTq369vr3iIWfntxnWDzZblqxJZD1MjGQfTOiRPR90qiMO7SJV_pYjArsVoQ9CKaeP0eojdT2QdZYf6eqwZFBrNUvP94XLb10b7pVRabzh-qttjil/s1600/DSC_1161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5ezwUYbhpdA5EqcS_4hxZ_gzt7hiTq369vr3iIWfntxnWDzZblqxJZD1MjGQfTOiRPR90qiMO7SJV_pYjArsVoQ9CKaeP0eojdT2QdZYf6eqwZFBrNUvP94XLb10b7pVRabzh-qttjil/s320/DSC_1161.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This fungi was growing along the trail. Beautiful orange color!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixFdsbrf3Bh9s7wgiItJpFPqMC-Kn5iQPiEOsSbjZdJUg5cYUz4CeKxLukfp0nbEkQ2v3uGJThD_tL2CzrdAyprxbZ6es_WHhANSqOZpjkqQtDbwNHffUVZkJ4jkvj5QAlHs7gi6XVoqui/s1600/IMG_2027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixFdsbrf3Bh9s7wgiItJpFPqMC-Kn5iQPiEOsSbjZdJUg5cYUz4CeKxLukfp0nbEkQ2v3uGJThD_tL2CzrdAyprxbZ6es_WHhANSqOZpjkqQtDbwNHffUVZkJ4jkvj5QAlHs7gi6XVoqui/s640/IMG_2027.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I will lift my eyes to the hills, where my help comes from. My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.<br />
Psalm 121</td></tr>
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And what a beautiful earth He made! Could you imagine spending the summer up here, grazing your livestock? That's what the early settlers did. After getting extremely hot on the trail, it was wonderful to enjoy this view, and the cool breeze that was blowing. The view is looking down in to Cades Cove.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYzUjNPCtGyJNj9YF3TRi15WVeR-7_Q_oYziqsCd95_hRzq3-KVGxSWkHpSgAUSLxe0Fek3b1BYjksd_nmB4b1iyZIq99TFv2D_4yfK5SpCMX8ramWyP0DhR-dRy77ZeNRmXrU-JJzA5h/s1600/DSC_1169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYzUjNPCtGyJNj9YF3TRi15WVeR-7_Q_oYziqsCd95_hRzq3-KVGxSWkHpSgAUSLxe0Fek3b1BYjksd_nmB4b1iyZIq99TFv2D_4yfK5SpCMX8ramWyP0DhR-dRy77ZeNRmXrU-JJzA5h/s320/DSC_1169.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAZPzmop74NzVX5DXIL9L4dYwH-NuLMynFbDYs76ubjtVGIF5vHLW5SRiYSAL9KkpdCa4oMUTtIu5QIfFsUM2K0StvxntiyF14ypMDw7YSUxilE3r31tzcgA6PZif-aFEq3eGDNtlO8cs/s1600/IMG_2029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAZPzmop74NzVX5DXIL9L4dYwH-NuLMynFbDYs76ubjtVGIF5vHLW5SRiYSAL9KkpdCa4oMUTtIu5QIfFsUM2K0StvxntiyF14ypMDw7YSUxilE3r31tzcgA6PZif-aFEq3eGDNtlO8cs/s640/IMG_2029.jpg" width="640" /></a>The Flame Azaleas were just beautiful. They occur in every shade from yellow-orange to a bright reddish pink. They were everywhere, and each one was prettier than the last one. The bald covers 14 acres, and I think we walked every inch of it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzoCQeZTcN19JwrfcLJ4a2rccyjAnwefeKmxjeXb3fg3hKwcOiN04nNLnoC8EC3YJp4Ixi3q4LImG6NItidVXfOnyNWqSf6puBi0FHaExiEoqmqxRdyYAOg-wksAKv8ulsrkuSQ6HKlhw/s1600/DSC_1178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzoCQeZTcN19JwrfcLJ4a2rccyjAnwefeKmxjeXb3fg3hKwcOiN04nNLnoC8EC3YJp4Ixi3q4LImG6NItidVXfOnyNWqSf6puBi0FHaExiEoqmqxRdyYAOg-wksAKv8ulsrkuSQ6HKlhw/s320/DSC_1178.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-TNwFfZ7noK-oAe7q9xCV7j66Xnjic027Ab_BmRidTd3Clga5iyaHxEdQEKeBKCtX7naqJLDpq2Yr7YHBKQ8nVIiCIqlrv38Ob5baifBswz4RlivPkkp2d4M1Djc9HwJLpmKlH2Iwfugm/s1600/IMG_0424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-TNwFfZ7noK-oAe7q9xCV7j66Xnjic027Ab_BmRidTd3Clga5iyaHxEdQEKeBKCtX7naqJLDpq2Yr7YHBKQ8nVIiCIqlrv38Ob5baifBswz4RlivPkkp2d4M1Djc9HwJLpmKlH2Iwfugm/s320/IMG_0424.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2XQxQGYnOMU9h9OqnFDb8rmeKz28wqBOqVIatk9gCVR1G6mvv_wdPkEqbNClDEWC_0pT_RfMnDMT87T-VSD-rxwaJZdhoRlpiKqEjU9csK_kQva5WgEIGJLVXpuWyhzKn5zp5GTd-aTb/s1600/Gregory+Bald.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2XQxQGYnOMU9h9OqnFDb8rmeKz28wqBOqVIatk9gCVR1G6mvv_wdPkEqbNClDEWC_0pT_RfMnDMT87T-VSD-rxwaJZdhoRlpiKqEjU9csK_kQva5WgEIGJLVXpuWyhzKn5zp5GTd-aTb/s320/Gregory+Bald.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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All too soon, it was time to hit the trail again. Although the rest of the adventure was mainly downhill, we had over 7 miles to go. The downhill trip was uneventful, and we sure were glad to see Bill and his cooler full of drinks at the end! <br />
Thanks to Gina for these two photos and to Hank for the "people" photos and the bear picture.<br />
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This was the longest hike I have ever done, and I am proud that I completed it,even if I was the last one in (only by about a minute). Even better was the good friends I got to enjoy it with. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rHVLU2Tz39Nd_sIPFri29f3xBQ5aSrgh456KNRrlDaEqkVbzZyVRMaX8qJJM8LOd49YzgTAGArDNxoInwGvRJ8B_e7ldcRK_YBvjcn1VPC-QJVdH_9yWkWc1kya2QUlohm-fiYJYoRtk/s1600/IMG_2034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rHVLU2Tz39Nd_sIPFri29f3xBQ5aSrgh456KNRrlDaEqkVbzZyVRMaX8qJJM8LOd49YzgTAGArDNxoInwGvRJ8B_e7ldcRK_YBvjcn1VPC-QJVdH_9yWkWc1kya2QUlohm-fiYJYoRtk/s320/IMG_2034.jpg" width="320" /></a>The end of the trail. Notice we are all sitting, boots off, and most of us have a cold drink in our hand. We were a hot, sweaty, fragrant(!) but very happy bunch in the car on the way home! </div>
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-69762313754971122932015-06-15T12:17:00.000-07:002015-06-15T12:17:00.290-07:00Appalachian Trail to the Jump Off5/12/15 I have no idea why they call this the Jump Off, but it sure is beautiful! This trail starts at Newfound Gap, and goes north along the Appalachian Trail for a couple of miles. It is very rocky and rugged, and mostly uphill. Eventually you come to the small trail to the Jump Off, which is shorter but more steep and rocky. The view is certainly worth it! Plus it's downhill on the way back!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg34xhQrq3PXY2CuqVRTfFGiJM2377YQop1fnFL7mU-J8naFnw5mG1_ONUrEiyjAX_h5eIJjBDBlLcPCjnjBqwPJMfSyC4u1NmsxTPPaJ0beF_KmcWnLrEMlN067AbWlLJpsc9u9JE6DidY/s1600/IMG_1926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg34xhQrq3PXY2CuqVRTfFGiJM2377YQop1fnFL7mU-J8naFnw5mG1_ONUrEiyjAX_h5eIJjBDBlLcPCjnjBqwPJMfSyC4u1NmsxTPPaJ0beF_KmcWnLrEMlN067AbWlLJpsc9u9JE6DidY/s320/IMG_1926.JPG" width="134" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ujp3bZZRgl_u345_Z9Kx_tFgi34iGJpnUpr4SUKHLZMu5WA9whIPC5tSSKLCw9SwjolRmATfh0m4SNc2DnezvZgmdeEeJtTajxNt7WoahNytVd9hEpU9RUEX03V6cVQjz6VFnQx2lhVM/s1600/Jump+Off.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ujp3bZZRgl_u345_Z9Kx_tFgi34iGJpnUpr4SUKHLZMu5WA9whIPC5tSSKLCw9SwjolRmATfh0m4SNc2DnezvZgmdeEeJtTajxNt7WoahNytVd9hEpU9RUEX03V6cVQjz6VFnQx2lhVM/s320/Jump+Off.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQUhKqEJwAzZwh-B6Kvb5qIZwm7OMDB1tciHEr8vEb2xPG2inYyohpYGBluVDGDh0RbNLFns6LII09RJf2GLl1O63up9Z7ZiECFdFD18xyx0hzxKbeJx4fJTmuN_jAPF9kew9w1i72fWIW/s1600/IMG_1929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="102" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQUhKqEJwAzZwh-B6Kvb5qIZwm7OMDB1tciHEr8vEb2xPG2inYyohpYGBluVDGDh0RbNLFns6LII09RJf2GLl1O63up9Z7ZiECFdFD18xyx0hzxKbeJx4fJTmuN_jAPF9kew9w1i72fWIW/s320/IMG_1929.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I was not expecting to see wildflowers on this trail. It was really too late for most of the spring wildflowers, but we were at a higher elevation, so spring comes a bit later. These are fringed phacelias, but we also saw red trillium, violets, spring beauties, and many others.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpEaJJxVNX5n0FTfTL-86qbg_HJ62W4nNVFFLMmgeGXR_lYMenlO_sJg9T39WlGd66RB9RMc2bsPinm05M9hDDWc2HGTfhpTWGdpB9PK1NX9pwfyDYZQ3mlm5cA05sjbSrF2ETYtbYja0/s1600/IMG_1934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpEaJJxVNX5n0FTfTL-86qbg_HJ62W4nNVFFLMmgeGXR_lYMenlO_sJg9T39WlGd66RB9RMc2bsPinm05M9hDDWc2HGTfhpTWGdpB9PK1NX9pwfyDYZQ3mlm5cA05sjbSrF2ETYtbYja0/s320/IMG_1934.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLVUWWo02yWXC3w2_Xti_ncedHFxk16s5itWrfv97f3T7DXH4-xJm7Hsh9xAJCdr7QgONMpKBWtjN57wbbna96YSfbz_ARbx0i3GWAjwKa1V8SybpjeShEwuhsOio-B-PLPiICiJacyYN/s1600/IMG_1935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLVUWWo02yWXC3w2_Xti_ncedHFxk16s5itWrfv97f3T7DXH4-xJm7Hsh9xAJCdr7QgONMpKBWtjN57wbbna96YSfbz_ARbx0i3GWAjwKa1V8SybpjeShEwuhsOio-B-PLPiICiJacyYN/s320/IMG_1935.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This grouse was in the trail, and was in no hurry to leave. We thought it was a pretty bad place to build a nest, but what do we know?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4R05SZG8CZwjnyKoODhUe3_E3FBOH3HVbqVcpa6uwPSiNFZugB32EofOGB9tSlokp4Ec-NBST_sPogRrZL11ON4qH5TSic6GcrFxbY-UxSe_CbcO_8lV_n210_T0_mKgAxG2MfgH6Qbj3/s1600/grouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4R05SZG8CZwjnyKoODhUe3_E3FBOH3HVbqVcpa6uwPSiNFZugB32EofOGB9tSlokp4Ec-NBST_sPogRrZL11ON4qH5TSic6GcrFxbY-UxSe_CbcO_8lV_n210_T0_mKgAxG2MfgH6Qbj3/s320/grouse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-71042362514837542432015-06-14T12:06:00.000-07:002015-06-14T12:06:00.392-07:00Meigs creek to Lumber Ridge to Tremont.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
5/28/15 We started out on Meigs Creek trail, which has over 20 small creek crossings. Last summer when we hiked this trail, I managed to slip and fall in the water, but this time every crossing was uneventful. When we came to the intersection of Curry Mountain, Lumber Ridge and Meigs Creek, where we planned to eat lunch, there was a large hiking club there doing the same thing. They were very friendly, and we enjoyed some nice conversation. We also met some of the trail maintenance crew, and expressed our appreciation for the hard work they do.</div>
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Since the trail was going to be pretty crowded, we decided to take the manway, (an old unmaintained trail) down to Tremont. That proved to be a good decision, in that it was not crowded, but unmaintained is the word of the day. It was a good challenge for all of us. We ended up at Spruce flats Falls, then at Tremont.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyn16blSCOp2uWsJ46p_838I-3Kt9KUs_Zwxw7fN6Pw4JO__6jsN5_4J5Aq0f3yBOymPTw9Xx0Y_IUIucEpPfJS33gP2oTzPIEzoyAb4OUbsmttxvutMMe6xYCIVSN1UtvaeCg_j8Bwt3/s1600/IMG_1975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyn16blSCOp2uWsJ46p_838I-3Kt9KUs_Zwxw7fN6Pw4JO__6jsN5_4J5Aq0f3yBOymPTw9Xx0Y_IUIucEpPfJS33gP2oTzPIEzoyAb4OUbsmttxvutMMe6xYCIVSN1UtvaeCg_j8Bwt3/s320/IMG_1975.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNRrOzsnVHHNah736vrTO_VcuY92U-ADwKHCAXUVcePZ-ZZiD_24yjnPysqU2DsT6wUaPsU0Jz3W1TLHlg391HhP94aSkrcfw-Dv1-NYUmeMuU02WFllykXsT_Y_7TCjGIiWP6IDeddfwe/s1600/IMG_1983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNRrOzsnVHHNah736vrTO_VcuY92U-ADwKHCAXUVcePZ-ZZiD_24yjnPysqU2DsT6wUaPsU0Jz3W1TLHlg391HhP94aSkrcfw-Dv1-NYUmeMuU02WFllykXsT_Y_7TCjGIiWP6IDeddfwe/s320/IMG_1983.JPG" width="240" /></a>Galax blooming</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpNd_WKdAEEk_-7jyBivcAkXTLiVZql_BZZ5vmPSsKZL868l93VUDjBlBkoF7Byjb5ptnOwELo_YwoFVm61kqovcJ7KJRFgYYXDmLSphGeoyCAGzaHRSaFwFkbI3Yr2DuMOylJW_qDVrQ/s1600/IMG_1986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpNd_WKdAEEk_-7jyBivcAkXTLiVZql_BZZ5vmPSsKZL868l93VUDjBlBkoF7Byjb5ptnOwELo_YwoFVm61kqovcJ7KJRFgYYXDmLSphGeoyCAGzaHRSaFwFkbI3Yr2DuMOylJW_qDVrQ/s320/IMG_1986.JPG" width="320" /></a>Steve and our friend Hank</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Uvp5tL76XrAgWyJRpoVaVw1smLI19ONuY3o7tzldioGvdgbLUrb_HLetrtRZDo9DCAXfGUB9DCyo7u9V4DDyjSip83JZbDxALM1WTgDvW2n70mGOzW2NCspJtLeoBaUBmlZ4jYEoMMwd/s1600/IMG_1990.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Uvp5tL76XrAgWyJRpoVaVw1smLI19ONuY3o7tzldioGvdgbLUrb_HLetrtRZDo9DCAXfGUB9DCyo7u9V4DDyjSip83JZbDxALM1WTgDvW2n70mGOzW2NCspJtLeoBaUBmlZ4jYEoMMwd/s320/IMG_1990.JPG" width="320" /></a>Spruce Flats falls. The last time we were here, it was very crowded, and we never did get a decent picture. It's only a short way up to Tremont (where the car was ) from here, but what a climb!</div>
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-47410939652431550092015-06-13T18:03:00.000-07:002015-06-14T06:13:04.180-07:00Andrews Bald<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
June 9, 2015 Steve and I, along with Hank Dye, hiked to Andrews Bald. This trail starts at Clingmans Dome, and goes down 1.7 miles to the bald. That means an uphill climb on the way back, which I dislike, but the bald was so pretty that it was worth it. The flame azaleas were starting to bloom, and were just beautiful. The view wasn't bad either! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8paF-7cZrtOGViNJQ8F7U2RFf-j_BiVPaOOsGFlOH0ho87un_N2RxX2PBlFrVYDDkOms_7YZEtYiC7lSWQ0BkeIs0v6RuoHkkmjHfE2QzIKBR18yQwthOyFPoV1zU2cCmEVSnX0CK41v1/s1600/DSC_1200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8paF-7cZrtOGViNJQ8F7U2RFf-j_BiVPaOOsGFlOH0ho87un_N2RxX2PBlFrVYDDkOms_7YZEtYiC7lSWQ0BkeIs0v6RuoHkkmjHfE2QzIKBR18yQwthOyFPoV1zU2cCmEVSnX0CK41v1/s320/DSC_1200.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-25521414083577921372015-06-12T17:51:00.000-07:002015-06-14T11:13:38.139-07:00Old Settlers Trail<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
5/20/2015 As we have done more hiking, we keep discovering new trails to explore. The Old Settlers Trail is in the Cosby area, and is not heavily used. In fact, the 5 (Steve & I, Hank, Grady and Sam) of us didn't see another hiker the entire day. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlvaKD3eZ_sd5gOTyDPyLdWO256eH28mQKhx0cxjdAVyyoQCWDoenQE12W_Gdc64gGRBjIxZwczRZKwhMLWueZoxk9IMreuqduYk_3eriMJmqznnF295jTd6Cb7jTBWYkjInP6YsjkMgIk/s1600/DSC_1175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlvaKD3eZ_sd5gOTyDPyLdWO256eH28mQKhx0cxjdAVyyoQCWDoenQE12W_Gdc64gGRBjIxZwczRZKwhMLWueZoxk9IMreuqduYk_3eriMJmqznnF295jTd6Cb7jTBWYkjInP6YsjkMgIk/s320/DSC_1175.JPG" width="320" /></a>The mountain laurel were in full bloom.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlA9YZHxauNd799JqCIdFjMxkul_8Zd_8EpUjvKualBFG-mgUEZg-vrHu-qXt2fSJ9V22B6_-CzE8Lk-LgFjnIF6BiTzksBDsaSRkOj_TJdv7aCZjofADsqsZk2LFYLAyjvszb1RZrS6hz/s1600/DSC_1178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlA9YZHxauNd799JqCIdFjMxkul_8Zd_8EpUjvKualBFG-mgUEZg-vrHu-qXt2fSJ9V22B6_-CzE8Lk-LgFjnIF6BiTzksBDsaSRkOj_TJdv7aCZjofADsqsZk2LFYLAyjvszb1RZrS6hz/s320/DSC_1178.JPG" width="214" /></a>There was lots of evidence of prior homes, rock walls, and other signs of the community that was here before the park was formed.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXBTILkqj96QeMpVr9N-MfH5CZxulF-EXOBwuDdcKQoGFYk1_V_em8BXRcRuTWuOA11cbLKsmss_FbNSwqJgZv0g-9wcdufjvI9Xiy1039R0iRo3cOarWj2j452DyKR9ls2su1J1zjGFS/s1600/DSC_1183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXBTILkqj96QeMpVr9N-MfH5CZxulF-EXOBwuDdcKQoGFYk1_V_em8BXRcRuTWuOA11cbLKsmss_FbNSwqJgZv0g-9wcdufjvI9Xiy1039R0iRo3cOarWj2j452DyKR9ls2su1J1zjGFS/s320/DSC_1183.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14dANN5FSAfKoUdaNkUbC4ZZ3zuWFLCzU6_QLgghJPKdtrZca38F7sYsV27QX7WiIuNp8fgEFpn38Yh6JbtScgrphHSSXW4NGhk3BmyREe_DeN7jEU5wLvJwrquFQgjv3j5PdZvqYwnEC/s1600/DSC_1185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh14dANN5FSAfKoUdaNkUbC4ZZ3zuWFLCzU6_QLgghJPKdtrZca38F7sYsV27QX7WiIuNp8fgEFpn38Yh6JbtScgrphHSSXW4NGhk3BmyREe_DeN7jEU5wLvJwrquFQgjv3j5PdZvqYwnEC/s320/DSC_1185.JPG" width="214" /></a>The entire trail is about 15 miles long, and we only hiked about 2.5 miles of it. Eventually, we'll get to the rest of it.</div>
<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-4251099927869422392015-06-11T17:24:00.001-07:002015-06-11T17:28:32.835-07:00How do the flowers grow?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAiqcXjfCtFqW9OaJqTnCCReg-ZnsRQoroTeoL01O-qPcRx-beBGDd_uvTZm-eG9rjdnn04m14kxEeUBl13H2Y8V5nF18n6kPxp1RzeUMULbkuOomc7jbL4U9KToaqXgWs7jGMG-aB0knE/s1600/DSC_1165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAiqcXjfCtFqW9OaJqTnCCReg-ZnsRQoroTeoL01O-qPcRx-beBGDd_uvTZm-eG9rjdnn04m14kxEeUBl13H2Y8V5nF18n6kPxp1RzeUMULbkuOomc7jbL4U9KToaqXgWs7jGMG-aB0knE/s320/DSC_1165.JPG" width="320" /></a>We, (mostly Steve) have worked very hard on the landscaping for our house. Every trip up, we take a few more plants. All of the roses were in full bloom when we arrived in mid-May. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlC5myfx6V-YmxJtVDOY9snHzog0yH23242wrKH4mOrasnIOWd1RdTeUWtOfvWyH4BkmFkVoiUWQhMASBakED8PCSbNxuBsVRYMqlEkRaNTpDZCFRr0cb-ylXw4bVx1NrK3m0f97cJY9C/s1600/DSC_1167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlC5myfx6V-YmxJtVDOY9snHzog0yH23242wrKH4mOrasnIOWd1RdTeUWtOfvWyH4BkmFkVoiUWQhMASBakED8PCSbNxuBsVRYMqlEkRaNTpDZCFRr0cb-ylXw4bVx1NrK3m0f97cJY9C/s320/DSC_1167.JPG" width="214" /></a>My goal was for the drift roses to grow downward and soften that rock wall. Looks like they are finally doing that!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGuzqHKaAnDmVRzI4oanBku9XSC06oOnbRvZAjGHBIr4VIssS4KGbBK7pRYzK_6UVvgBHmjOKOO0A7cKKqyEGi_vnI0LptT9fc-p_quTUlOIe0QL82o-fxMexuWHBvaR2oJYuTKOBafA1Q/s1600/DSC_1168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGuzqHKaAnDmVRzI4oanBku9XSC06oOnbRvZAjGHBIr4VIssS4KGbBK7pRYzK_6UVvgBHmjOKOO0A7cKKqyEGi_vnI0LptT9fc-p_quTUlOIe0QL82o-fxMexuWHBvaR2oJYuTKOBafA1Q/s320/DSC_1168.JPG" width="320" /></a>Eventually the junipers will fill in the bank completely. </div>
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-19918659282645575382015-05-14T18:41:00.000-07:002015-05-14T18:43:47.195-07:00Grandchild #5!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
March 14, 2015 Our daughter Jacki and son in law Mike presented us with our 5th grandchild. Early in her pregnancy, they decided on a home birth and asked me to be present. I was there when Eli was born and loved the experience, so I eagerly said yes. Jacki's labor started early in the morning and they called us around 7am. We both went up, and Steve brought Eli back to our house for the day. Shortly after this picture was taken, Jacki had another contraction, and announced that it was time to call Maggie, the midwife. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHR9r6TrrPq69caLlUUv2LenL8UM1hMNmwd56QYdHHeajzG4KJp1Bt_4VE2pY8OLJYM7fZWfWiIjNe05-bBLDZWfAAKsYMGWcKnPErVf1VX-JZ9SvjT2iL2Lz84XPSABkQPX85aAyCr0g/s1600/DSC_0983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCHR9r6TrrPq69caLlUUv2LenL8UM1hMNmwd56QYdHHeajzG4KJp1Bt_4VE2pY8OLJYM7fZWfWiIjNe05-bBLDZWfAAKsYMGWcKnPErVf1VX-JZ9SvjT2iL2Lz84XPSABkQPX85aAyCr0g/s320/DSC_0983.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mike set up the birth tub (much like a large child's wading pool) and we all took turns attending to her. We were all so busy that it seemed like a short time until she was ready to push. I'm sure it seemed like much longer to Jacki!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXFokhX7635Jw4-YWCKd3YQDIuBng0M4iHua33M7O2aO5iwgnimxyWuCDaQ3q65Dypoqr3g2I3hroMZkIYgrfk8Wko_wsNsUrt7qbs883W7xYSbkZrFZSmvuVS5-curct1-dT_cgxQSli/s1600/DSC_0992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXFokhX7635Jw4-YWCKd3YQDIuBng0M4iHua33M7O2aO5iwgnimxyWuCDaQ3q65Dypoqr3g2I3hroMZkIYgrfk8Wko_wsNsUrt7qbs883W7xYSbkZrFZSmvuVS5-curct1-dT_cgxQSli/s320/DSC_0992.JPG" width="320" /></a>Molly, the dog, was quite concerned about her "mommy". I honestly think she would have gotten in the tub with Jacki if we had let her. </div>
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Benjamin Daniel Wolfe, born about 4 pm.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZjRwJC-ILOkDYyhK9ns4QHwY4AFAXgd3ujTrTOTwr_pQxVtWASI6egwLCM2vwZRVV83ra4eSNQxsMoUsT83ibXeSsEsRV71L0GQy2iaVCvIYzZ31uQTabRHlDSJoOhxDN7r4vBvfgrMy/s1600/DSC_1033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZjRwJC-ILOkDYyhK9ns4QHwY4AFAXgd3ujTrTOTwr_pQxVtWASI6egwLCM2vwZRVV83ra4eSNQxsMoUsT83ibXeSsEsRV71L0GQy2iaVCvIYzZ31uQTabRHlDSJoOhxDN7r4vBvfgrMy/s320/DSC_1033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcbggSgmgaimCfGF8OGJWBrk6lIFAvqd_7OyH3eDhU5nBs8G8cUo4bnpZOGENrksWwXSL9jEC92Y6hTXVIVXkOwAE7yRuVbeMjRcwU7WQCJRRjWmXF0Tfu0i9tNXiT5QHkVlqabvE6rRqO/s1600/DSC_1055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcbggSgmgaimCfGF8OGJWBrk6lIFAvqd_7OyH3eDhU5nBs8G8cUo4bnpZOGENrksWwXSL9jEC92Y6hTXVIVXkOwAE7yRuVbeMjRcwU7WQCJRRjWmXF0Tfu0i9tNXiT5QHkVlqabvE6rRqO/s320/DSC_1055.JPG" width="214" /></a>Would you look at all his hair! He seemed so tiny, and I was sure he was smaller than Eli was at birth, but they weighed exactly the same. Maggie is giving him a very through newborn exam. </div>
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After Ben was born, Steve brought Eli back up to meet his baby brother. They stopped and bought some flowers for Jacki, and while they were driving, Steve asked Eli if he knew where they were going. He answered, to see Ben. That was the first we knew of his name, but evidently Eli knew!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpA9wsuzw1Vz3bfDgYD77PRdq5BvDr3kZlq_FJPNNjX0vx7vplcKb_o4um9qMLUkt8i4fiV2TuuLd3B-YTzN8IjMg1MON87O6_CMKCAEFsGERQtQYx8aOxhHoaPKQAylOyUi7tnf4W-WVz/s1600/Pappy+Eli+Ben.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpA9wsuzw1Vz3bfDgYD77PRdq5BvDr3kZlq_FJPNNjX0vx7vplcKb_o4um9qMLUkt8i4fiV2TuuLd3B-YTzN8IjMg1MON87O6_CMKCAEFsGERQtQYx8aOxhHoaPKQAylOyUi7tnf4W-WVz/s320/Pappy+Eli+Ben.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Being a GiGi is more fun and fulfilling than I ever thought possible! Being present at Ben's birth was a wonderful gift, and I am grateful to my daughter and son in law for allowing me to be a part of their special day. </div>
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-3866509895413590092014-11-14T11:56:00.000-08:002014-11-14T11:56:17.537-08:00Old Sugarlands trail & rock house 11/10/14 This 7 mile hike involved a two car shuttle, or else a LOT of walking. We opted for the two cars, since there were 8 of us anyway. We parked at the trailhead near Gatlinburg and ended up at the <a href="http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm#CP_JUMP_48430">Sugarlands</a> visitor center. This is a beautiful trail, nice and wide and well padded with pine needles, but is also used for horses, so you have to watch where you step! About halfway down, we took a manway(old trail that is no longer maintained) to an old cemetery and a "rock house". These aren't on any of the park maps, and the rangers officially know nothing, but obviously a lot of people know about them. At the cemetery we talked to a lady who was visiting the graves of her great grandparents.<br />
The rock house is exactly what it sounds like, a house made of rocks. The roof, windows, etc. are all gone but surprisingly there isn't much vandalism (probably because it's not on the map). There are no clear cut records, but the most popular theory is that the house was a home/office for the superintendent when Hwy 321 was put in.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This house was built to last! I was coveting the cast iron skillet!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIn-Ur7oF-IcfElYZesbLcjpkATBDPNpdhCRJGXwrBS6cxFxWB98yCiAH50ly1SMl1Hv-i0GNFfRzcBdxvD_CbAZ3B_7sdNx5cbkEmfw_Pb6RIuvDvPVYb-j_4jdivEPZfb8PjGHIw_lej/s1600/rock+house+1+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIn-Ur7oF-IcfElYZesbLcjpkATBDPNpdhCRJGXwrBS6cxFxWB98yCiAH50ly1SMl1Hv-i0GNFfRzcBdxvD_CbAZ3B_7sdNx5cbkEmfw_Pb6RIuvDvPVYb-j_4jdivEPZfb8PjGHIw_lej/s320/rock+house+1+(2).JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="color: black;"></span></div>
Hank, Pat and Helen lounging in the "living room"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcavjSUv0LGHnjR6EQKePF1Rsu2NfyEn_DmAZTlW8GQYHAY_Ki85uVM_49eH_jEzs3vCJbEiSSJ3mywvmfLBRfEY7X5WPKs06V_6T14NxpJp5HXnxQsiVdPCrMzMt-hCd102lQkuSJD3Nv/s1600/Rock+house+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcavjSUv0LGHnjR6EQKePF1Rsu2NfyEn_DmAZTlW8GQYHAY_Ki85uVM_49eH_jEzs3vCJbEiSSJ3mywvmfLBRfEY7X5WPKs06V_6T14NxpJp5HXnxQsiVdPCrMzMt-hCd102lQkuSJD3Nv/s320/Rock+house+(3).JPG" width="240" /></a>Wouldn't you like to have this in your backyard?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWRrMkV5IAhzie3gS85GcMdKS1N9W91JfxHCnMuknE3RonzsYXnempFWUTsAs1w_geKk8GOh1vm7w6HtMEEB71wEOj2Orv7dGW01z3BFgF7guYw1LeEGxr7ttKlimkvW9TnTwFWsM8IZkG/s1600/Rock+house+(4).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWRrMkV5IAhzie3gS85GcMdKS1N9W91JfxHCnMuknE3RonzsYXnempFWUTsAs1w_geKk8GOh1vm7w6HtMEEB71wEOj2Orv7dGW01z3BFgF7guYw1LeEGxr7ttKlimkvW9TnTwFWsM8IZkG/s320/Rock+house+(4).JPG" width="240" /></a>Beautiful day, beautiful trail, great companions, what more do you want?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipNyFj5MIE_X1QYtdCCPSX9_HHzSTb6TsiYMm8vul0elGLM2_y53k1a9fEwM7fxkKGRPwuDcHUkJzoHiYt1YYVI7RbYdTfNVIDEuUfW8tGoRAjFPDK2c3aavkh0gcLAqmRi2shBIXy-e_X/s1600/Rock+house+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipNyFj5MIE_X1QYtdCCPSX9_HHzSTb6TsiYMm8vul0elGLM2_y53k1a9fEwM7fxkKGRPwuDcHUkJzoHiYt1YYVI7RbYdTfNVIDEuUfW8tGoRAjFPDK2c3aavkh0gcLAqmRi2shBIXy-e_X/s320/Rock+house+(5).JPG" width="180" /></a>Front: Hank in his orange Vols hat, Sammy, John, who was racing to get in the picture before the timer went off.</div>
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Back left: Pat & Helen, Alice (green shirt) Vicky, Steve</div>
<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-72785450935369218232014-11-13T14:17:00.000-08:002014-11-13T14:17:26.246-08:00Gatlinburg Trail November 3, 2014<br />
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After sending our thru-hiker (<a href="http://sharkbaitontheat.blogspot.com/2014/11/day-111-end-of-journey.html?m=0">He finished!</a> if you are interested in reading more )on his way, we decided to do a short walk on the Gatlinburg trail. This trail is really more of a jogging/biking trail, and is one of the more level trails in the park. Pets are also allowed, so we saw a lot of dogs and all were well behaved! We began at the back of the Sugarlands Visitor center, walked 2 miles to Gatlinburg, had lunch and walked back. Definitely one of our easier hikes, but still enjoyable. <br />
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As we returned to the visitor center, we came across this monument to the CCC. In our hikes, we have come across the remains of a lot of CCC camps, and learning the pre-park history of the area is very interesting to me. My grandfather was a supervisor in the CCC near Morristown, TN, so seeing these remains always reminds me of him. <br />
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Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-88575201431583818942014-11-09T12:20:00.000-08:002014-11-09T12:20:13.798-08:00How do you tag a butterfly?That was the burning question of the day. Steve and I were invited to a Monarch Tagging event, hosted by our friends Hank and Margaret. The event was sponsored by the Smoky Mountain Institute at <a href="http://www.gsmit.org/">Tremont</a> , which is not far from our house. They host science camps for kids and families, and participate in a variety of worldwide research projects, such as monitoring salamanders, banding birds, and tagging Monarch butterflies. <br />
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It turned out to be a cold rainy day, and there was not a butterfly in sight, but we had fun anyway. And to answer the question, you tag a butterfly by placing a sticker with a unique number on it, on a certain spot on the underside of the wing. If you ever find a dead monarch, look at its wings, and you may find one that's tagged.<br />
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Following is a YouTubevideo put together by one of the participants, Gina. For some reason, it doesn't seem to play well on a mobile phone, but is fine on a laptop or desktop. Enjoy!<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/5OXkd4VsHfs">http://youtu.be/5OXkd4VsHfs</a>Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-148193785339463302014-11-05T17:15:00.000-08:002014-11-05T17:15:17.494-08:00Early snow and a thru hiker<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiQWiA6624ewJqLPxaUFyc4dRoP10BqM-VldEKotk5SAyx8Yvp-PZ8zVav_f4Yhan-J4cyHgR9rD9qc1H0mzYJuvr135-JCrXcb7b1o3jeCEkW-Ayr6RkSQo-02IWQAelErqF7CAZKAi03/s1600/IMG_1383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiQWiA6624ewJqLPxaUFyc4dRoP10BqM-VldEKotk5SAyx8Yvp-PZ8zVav_f4Yhan-J4cyHgR9rD9qc1H0mzYJuvr135-JCrXcb7b1o3jeCEkW-Ayr6RkSQo-02IWQAelErqF7CAZKAi03/s1600/IMG_1383.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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This past weekend we had the privilege of hosting a thru hiker for a few days. Trevor is the grandson of one of our FL neighbors, and is hiking the Appalachian Trail, from Maine to Georgia. It is over 2000 miles in length, and as you might imagine by the time a hiker gets to the Smoky Mountains, they might need a break! Trevor had planned to be at Newfound Gap on Friday, long before a major winter storm was forecast. We met him about noon, and the storm rolled in that night. Another example of God's perfect timing. </div>
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We had about 4" of snow at the house, and there was almost 2 feet at Newfound Gap. The roads in the park were all closed, and Trevor ended up with us for 3 nights instead of the one we had planned. We were all grateful that he didn't have to spend those nights out in way below freezing temperatures! By Monday the roads were open, and he set out again, and sent us this picture the next day. There is STILL snow on the ground at the higher elevations, and lots of tree branches down everywhere. </div>
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9020044333061017203.post-42296521119873991492014-11-02T00:30:00.000-07:002014-11-02T00:30:02.327-07:00Bote Mountain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
October 29, 2014. Finley Cane, Bote Mountain, Lead Cove loop. </div>
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The fall colors were at their peak in the Cades Cove area, so although this hike offered very few long range views, the colors were beautiful.</div>
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The trail intersection where we ate lunch. It was all downhill from there!<br />
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<br />Vickyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17209847146011538150noreply@blogger.com2