Do you like this?

Ran across this scene years ago somewhere in Montana. Such depictions are not necessarily to my liking. They speak of disappointment, disillusionment, discouragement, and despair. And those are just the "D's". But, such seem to remain popular as "telling a story."

Hits a little too close to home for those of us who have experienced some of this. We'd rather not recall hopes abandoned and dreams forsaken.

It reminds me a bit of Christina's World, the famous work by Andrew Wyeth, hanging in the Museum of Modern Art.

Cool Mule in Blue

Mules are valued for their economical "keeping" qualities, their sure-footedness in rough or mountainous terrain, their soundness (hoof-wise), and useful intelligence when assessing challenging situations. Some enthusiasts think mules are more companionable than horses.

At any rate, take in a mule show where the versatility of this American icon is displayed. You'll be impressed.

Having a look around,

these twin owls started life in a handy cupola atop the barn. Appears they're taking stock of their situation.

Author! Author!

A standing ovation for another production last night. Mountain weather and the season's changing atmosphere team up for spectacular results.

Some of Montana's Big Skies, last night

The month of June usually brings unsettled weather to the state. Aside from aggravating one's arthritis, the elements often produce a sunset show. The scene is similar to one we recorded several years ago almost to the day. Taken from the back yard here.

A hike . . .

we'd recommend is Blodgett Overlook in the Bitterroot Range of Western Montana, just west of Hamilton. The trail begins at the Canyon Creek Campground and covers 1.4 miles of easy going and gentle terrain. Not too strenuous for most anyone from age 8 to 80 or beyond. 

Once there, one gains a sense of how important glacial action was to this range of mountains. Rock climbers scale its slabs and there are huge Ponderosas along the way. The view into Idaho is spectacular and eastward, one is treated to the valley floor.