tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30546300533005407062024-03-12T18:46:05.095-07:00The Hoge Homestead ~Established in 1990 - Our home in the rolling foothills of Washington's Cascades.HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.comBlogger822125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-53056209654733888192016-10-11T12:00:00.000-07:002020-08-28T14:34:08.967-07:00The Last Day~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Barn & Pasture~</td></tr>
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I thought it would be hard, but when we woke, we were both just <i>ready</i> to be gone! We'd already signed all the closing paperwork the week before. All of that week had been spent loading a second 20-ft. U-Haul for this trip. Hardly a square inch of space was left by the time we were done! Donnie's <i>eye</i> for packing was again put to good use. She managed to get the last of our items to fit inside! Getting the Bronco on the car hauler at Pat's last evening - was scary! Only Butch could have accomplished it! We only had a couple inches to spare - to secure the oversize tires on the trailer!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah in her pasture~</td></tr>
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Very rarely does Farah lie down - but this morning she did. I know - she knew - it would be her last time in this place. I hope having other horses near, will make up for the loss of her personal paradise. While Butch added Farah's things - I walked most of the <i>Homestead</i>. Nika & I sat up on the swing one last time... I looked around at the familiar surroundings - realizing the top of the large Hemlock had blown down. It was sitting on it's broken end - just across the trail from the swing. About 30-ft. of tree top that will need to be cut up & hauled out... No longer my job!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Leaf Maple</td></tr>
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We didn't get to see the leaves get to full color this year, nor the creek running it's length. Both things I've looked forward to every Fall. It was almost noon when we loaded Farah & were ready to pull out.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On Our Way!</td></tr>
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I had to get the final photo of Butch driving the truck, camper & trailer out under the arch - now void of our entry signage. At the bottom of the hill, the U-Haul with Bronco in tow was waiting. Donnie came out of the house, to say goodbye... The goodbye's were the <i>absolute</i> hardest... Pat & Donnie had been our very first friends, our very best neighbors & after all these years - like family.<br />
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I was a little nervous, driving the U-Haul - it was one long rig with the trailer & Bronco behind! By the time we arrived in Duvall & picked up daughter Courtney at the Safeway - I was feeling a little more comfortable. Son-in-law David came to tell us goodbye & that brought home to us - the finality of our decision.<br />
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Goodbye <i>Hoge Homestead</i> - may your new owners treat you with respect, make improvements to your beauty & keep the forest intact. We will miss you forever ~<br />
_____________<br />
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This completes the final post of this blog. For the continuation of our life & times - please visit us at the <a href="https://hogehomeplace.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Hoge Home Place!</a> </div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-72473520582475771352016-10-03T17:56:00.001-07:002020-07-08T16:32:46.681-07:00Hangin' Out~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Quite time on the Homestead! The quietest it's been in weeks! Beautiful weather, time to gather up & sort through the items that remain. Enough items we'll be taking another U-Haul & towing the Bronco on a car hauler. Butch has been so impressed with the comfort level of the interior of the new U-Haul truck, he said driving one will be more enjoyable than the Bronco's rough 4-wheel ride.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fall in the Woods~</td></tr>
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Speaking of my Bronco... It was nice enough to let me know with some groaning sounds - that the power steering pump was going out - it's in the shop. Better here - than on the road somewhere!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nika in Kitt's old spot behind the swing~</td></tr>
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Nika & I have even had time for my morning tea up on the swing! Such amazing days we've been having! Farah too, has come up to <i>ask</i> me more than once, why we're not going out. She's been enjoying more time in the pasture.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah relaxing~</td></tr>
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No blankets for the gold girl! I keep looking at her sleek coat, summer hair shedding out & gradually starting to lighten. I'm hoping I can convince her to grow a thick one :-) I've packed her heavy blanket, rain sheet & mid-weight traveling blanket - but by now I'd usually have a light weight sheet on her.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rings~</td></tr>
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The barrel rings that make the large wind spinner - Butch made me years ago - came from my Great Aunt's farm in Iowa. I don't know if we'll be climbing up to retrieve them. I'd need a huge tree to hang them from. There are two nice ones - so we'll see.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creek with water~</td></tr>
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The creek is finally starting so show some water. Not running yet - that used to happen in mid-September. With the days of upcoming rain in the forecast - I may get to see it flowing yet before we leave!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Cottonwood~</td></tr>
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The largest of the Black Cottonwoods is starting to turn yellow - they are so beautiful & smell <i>So</i> good this time of year. Each time I walk the woods now, is special to me. I find the Cedars I've planted, all growing well enough - <i>my</i> planting - some well over 5ft. tall. The new owners haven't asked any questions about the woods, but I've left my notebooks & certificates for them, in the Cottage.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Three Fingers~</td></tr>
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The view of Three Fingers from up behind the barn - always stunning - will be one I will miss... There are many, many things we'll miss - but it's time. Even when we thought they might not - things did fall into place & we're very grateful for the friends who helped that happen! Our timing has worked out & I'm enjoying each of our final days on the <i>Homestead</i>~</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-18913868561485554982016-10-02T13:58:00.002-07:002016-10-02T14:12:07.972-07:00Butch & Dave's Great Road-Trip!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
This morning, Butch & Dave saw the sunrise in Montana. There's just something about sunrise in the West~ <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave's amazing photo~</td></tr>
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Leave it to these two - to take the route that puts them just where they wanted to be :-) Not in time for the big rally - maybe not driving a U-Haul - but a great place to make a stop~!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sturgis!</td></tr>
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By now, they've traveled well over 1,000-miles - with the Ford U-Haul truck cruising right along!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave & the U-Haul~</td></tr>
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It's great that even when they don't have much cell phone reception - in most cases they can still sent out a text.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Town~</td></tr>
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They walked the town & had nachos & beer!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dave & Butch at lunch~</td></tr>
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So glad they're taking a little time for some stops! :-)</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-9908088650072706522016-10-01T16:00:00.000-07:002016-10-02T21:11:41.639-07:00Packing Up, Butch & U-Haul Leave & a Birthday!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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We spend Friday - all day Friday - packing the U-Haul! It was crazy, the amount of boxes that we had packed! Without Donnie - who came up early & later Kyla & Pat - we couldn't have gotten it done! By early evening - two more friends came up after working all day & helped with the final <i>push</i>! I was way too busy to take photos, sure wish I had. After we were done, we managed to find enough chairs to sit! Next you ask? Margarita's out of a can & beers for all!<br />
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Butch & I spent the night in the camper - both exhausted. Butch was up & gone with the truck by 6 a.m. the next morning. He picked up our son-in-law Dave & they were on their way!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To Montana!</td></tr>
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By just after 2 p.m. Butch sent this photo as they crossed from ID to Montana! The next text was after 7:30 p.m. when they'd stopped for dinner & the night just outside of Bozeman MT.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cassidy & Cupcakes!</td></tr>
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I'd been invited to Granddaughter Cassidy's birthday party. Hard to believe that she's now 13 & officially a teenager :-) Courtney served a wonderful taco bar for dinner, then the <a href="http://site.people.com/food/pokemon-go-cupcakes-recipe/" target="_blank">Poke Ball Cupcakes</a> for dessert!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cassidy, Mason & friends!</td></tr>
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The girls wanted to go see <a href="http://www.fandango.com/missperegrineshomeforpeculiarchildren_165896/movieoverview" target="_blank">Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children</a> in Monroe. It was quite the movie! It wasn't Mason who was scared - it was Grammy! I told him I was about ready to sit on his lap & close my eyes! :-) To just sit in a chair & be entertained was amazing after the last week...<br />
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Nika is sticking close - Donnie came up to feed Farah. Now, I'll be rattling around an almost empty house for a few days!</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-61865184902726669422016-09-28T15:00:00.000-07:002016-09-28T15:13:12.874-07:00Travelin' Papers~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
As the days fly by at the speed of sound - we're getting all the things done that need doing! Today, we headed to Pilchuck Vet in Snohomish. We had our traveling papers to get done & I'd been remiss in getting Farah's teeth scheduled last year. I thought that it had been August of 15 when we'd last been in - but no - it was February!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8ni8gBaY0XQ/V-w68j6abAI/AAAAAAAATio/4QQTjriIJZUxnHTzyE13SCDS48M64wJzgCEw/s1600/20160928_115333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8ni8gBaY0XQ/V-w68j6abAI/AAAAAAAATio/4QQTjriIJZUxnHTzyE13SCDS48M64wJzgCEw/s400/20160928_115333.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr. Holohan & Farah</td></tr>
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I've known that Farah was putting on a couple pounds - not as much time out on the trails as usual - since I've been busy boxing & packing! Sure enough - she tipped the scales at an even 1,100 lbs! Up about 20lbs. from her highest weight to date. Not that she'll complain! Her girth still fits in the same hole - so we'll call it muscle :-) I am happy though that she'll be starting the trip with a few extra pounds.<br />
<br />
After over a year - Farah had a hook starting & had formed some transverse ridges on her molars. The pocket that we'd worked so hard on over the past couple years - had reappeared & was again holding food :-( Not nearly as bad as originally - but now we'll need a follow-up in six-months to check on it.<br />
<br />
Dr. Holohan did suggest a couple things for traveling. The first was <a href="https://www.softrideboots.com/Default.asp" target="_blank">Soft-Ride Boots</a> - the sizing looks interesting & I doubt I'll have time to order, so we may go to the <a href="http://www.bonypony.com/" target="_blank">Bony Pony</a> to check on what they might have in stock. I'm not sure how well they'll work with steel shoes - so more reading to do. The other idea was to use <a href="http://www.backontrackproducts.com/Horse-Products/Horse-Leg-Quick-Wraps/Royal-Quick-Wraps-p319.html" target="_blank">Back-On-Track Wraps</a>. These look easy to use & I like the idea of the ceramic power infused into the fabric.<br />
<br />
Since Farah has traveled long-distance more than once - without anything & without any issues - I'm not worried. But we may splurge in the hope of adding to her comfort. </div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-75664989981372425422016-09-24T22:00:00.000-07:002016-09-26T08:41:47.946-07:00Seattle Knights at Rhodes River!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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We've been lucky - getting to see both sets of Grand-kids in these last weeks in WA. Both weekends we were working at packing of course - but we managed to get in some fun too.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oeH-ngiw1pM/V-gWe_e6jQI/AAAAAAAATiQ/LngIEvbnm4wWMNgI0DbpjAwufX7vkX4TQCEw/s1600/IMG_6374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oeH-ngiw1pM/V-gWe_e6jQI/AAAAAAAATiQ/LngIEvbnm4wWMNgI0DbpjAwufX7vkX4TQCEw/s400/IMG_6374.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mason, Grammy, Cassidy & Papa</td></tr>
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Months ago we'd made plans to take Scott & Karen to <a href="http://www.rhodesriverranch.com/" target="_blank">Rhodes River</a> to see the <a href="http://www.seattleknights.com/" target="_blank">Seattle Knights</a>! One member of the cast - I felt like I knew personally - since Ann had joined our <a href="http://washingtontrailridersdistancederby.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Distance Derby</a>. We'd been trying to make plans to see the show since last year.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great table!</td></tr>
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Then, our oldest daughter & her husband were celebrating their twenty-fifth anniversary this same weekend - so we included Mason & Cassidy in our dinner plans! It couldn't have worked out any better!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mason, Ann & Cassidy</td></tr>
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The troupe visited the dinner guests in the restaurant prior to the show. We were told that it was perfectly alright to yell & shout - & even pound on the table for our favorite players! Ann & I finally had the opportunity to meet in person! The entire ensemble graciously took the time to make everyone there - feel like part of the performance! The place was packed! Probably the biggest crowd I've ever seen at the RRR!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mason & Chocolate Cake!</td></tr>
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The dinner buffet was outstanding & the kids topped off their dinner with warm chocolate cake drizzled with chocolate icing & whipped cream!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GulMPjcqvdc/V-gW-B8L8FI/AAAAAAAATiI/25DXQDaXn8s9YKAybgNH2c_LBke0BK7aQCEw/s1600/IMG_6383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GulMPjcqvdc/V-gW-B8L8FI/AAAAAAAATiI/25DXQDaXn8s9YKAybgNH2c_LBke0BK7aQCEw/s400/IMG_6383.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Incredible!</td></tr>
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It was my first introduction to the <a href="http://www.warlander.org/" target="_blank">Warlander</a> breed! What amazing movers! A gray stallion was so bold & beautiful that he took your breath away! They knew their job & gave <i>very</i> nasty looks as they approached each other at a full gallop! (Much better photos can be found on their website!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1HAPw4lSwbw/V-gXAd1cWVI/AAAAAAAATiY/e6QOzGWASggfYOiIXRAIL-t6cUe7nr0DgCEw/s1600/IMG_6387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1HAPw4lSwbw/V-gXAd1cWVI/AAAAAAAATiY/e6QOzGWASggfYOiIXRAIL-t6cUe7nr0DgCEw/s400/IMG_6387.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cassidy & Gina</td></tr>
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After the show, the cast came back to visit with the crowd. Cassidy is a fan of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anime" target="_blank">Anime</a> & makes many of her own costumes from Goodwill <i>finds</i>! She really enjoyed seeing the amazing outfits & armor close up! Gina's costume & weapon drew Cassidy's attention early on.<br />
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There's no way you can't go to this show & not have a Great time! One little girl approached Ann as she was talking with us, wanting a hug & even getting a kiss on the cheek :-) As Ann said; "Now you know why I do this!" For sure! </div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-85646457800536584412016-09-22T22:00:00.000-07:002016-09-23T10:50:56.013-07:00Butch's Going Away Party~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
After twenty-four years with <a href="http://www.seaconllc.com/" target="_blank">Sea Con LLC</a>, the company hosted Butch's going away party at what became his <i>signature</i> project - the <a href="http://www.redhook.com/" target="_blank">Red Hook Brewery</a> in Woodinville. Another absolutely perfect day - first of Fall in the Pacific Northwest. I think the state is trying to woo us into staying :-) <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v-GiJFvHjDw/V-VWWRw9sYI/AAAAAAAAThU/oqT-87IFW3Yk_lBte6m3xmhN4tYXwcLrgCEw/s1600/IMG_6357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v-GiJFvHjDw/V-VWWRw9sYI/AAAAAAAAThU/oqT-87IFW3Yk_lBte6m3xmhN4tYXwcLrgCEw/s400/IMG_6357.JPG" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's to Butch!</td></tr>
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Many have said over the years that the Sea Con <i>dynamic</i> resembled a large dysfunctional family during a holiday :-) From the first, when Brian lured Butch away from our steady employment at multi-family properties, into commercial construction, the projects have come & gone. Red Hook - though - was the one that always stood out. It was the best place to gather & honor the career of their top Superintendent.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fH8WWBs3lQ4/V-VWOUubUzI/AAAAAAAAThQ/ShCbYad4dvgX5RW1YdIbnvbhG76z0DM8ACEw/s1600/IMG_6353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fH8WWBs3lQ4/V-VWOUubUzI/AAAAAAAAThQ/ShCbYad4dvgX5RW1YdIbnvbhG76z0DM8ACEw/s400/IMG_6353.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butch & Dave</td></tr>
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Butch & Dave go all the way back to the start & as the years went by - they became the company's senior Superintendents. Butch's skill on a variety of projects, gained him the job of training the partner's sons as they completed their education & entered the company. To see these men now handling their own projects & thanking Butch for his mentoring was great!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All hands on deck~</td></tr>
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It was a night for story-telling - most at my husbands expense! :-) These guys even had stories that were new to me! :-) We laughed hard & long.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K6BrBOjtkEk/V-VW4pG5NLI/AAAAAAAAThs/qEo0vS2cWy8e3NogmRVSkaq4uvoRrOJpgCEw/s1600/IMG_6369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K6BrBOjtkEk/V-VW4pG5NLI/AAAAAAAAThs/qEo0vS2cWy8e3NogmRVSkaq4uvoRrOJpgCEw/s400/IMG_6369.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cards & gift~</td></tr>
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Rob gave a short speech, crediting Butch with his years of service. Expressions of how much he would be missed & wishing us well with our upcoming move. It was really hard to say good-bye to these people - years of shared history here - friends all~</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-40880888192314799372016-09-20T20:00:00.001-07:002021-03-25T16:12:50.956-07:00Bear at Bracken!<div dir="ltr" trbidi="on">
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Farah needed a ride, I did too! Bracken is the shortest drive - so that's where we went. It's hard - when I have so much to get done - to take the time to ride. The whole while I was thinking about what I should have been doing at home.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our rig back at the parking area~</td></tr>
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Farah was threatening to spook at about <i>anything</i>... Getting ridden once a week is not her thing! I circled her, then had her back up - which is how we took this photo. We have our somewhat standard loop now, through what is usually the muddy trails. Even with all the rain - the trails had held up well.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dogwood Blooms!</td></tr>
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At the shelter, I was surprised to see the dogwood blooming! Either it's a late blooming variety - or the wonderful late summer weather we've been having fooled it into a second bloom.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Bear~</td></tr>
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Distracted... As we headed down the hill toward the river - something big & black caught my eye - moving down the lane about 150ft. ahead of us. For only <i>one</i> second, I thought it was a big dog, but as it ambled along, there was <i>No</i> doubt it was a bear! I pulled Farah up - got out my camera & took the photo. The wind was blowing right at us - I was surprised Farah had very little reaction? What to do? He was between us & where I wanted to go! As he moved forward - we followed - I started singing & by the time we were going past the fence - he had disappeared into the bush.<br />
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Such a truly gorgeous day - we went over Tin Bridge. Now, there was a bitter sweet quality to the crossing, the realization that it might be one of our last times across.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No more bales~</td></tr>
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This year, the field of <i>my </i>Green Valley was cut & put into the round bales - a change from last year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JD0gPq25m4s/V-KuHbGoq0I/AAAAAAAATgY/a5WXF3f4ZDg3s7bcV4bGJN-nxeKcGT6cwCEw/s1600/IMG_6325.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JD0gPq25m4s/V-KuHbGoq0I/AAAAAAAATgY/a5WXF3f4ZDg3s7bcV4bGJN-nxeKcGT6cwCEw/s400/IMG_6325.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking at the new section of trail~</td></tr>
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The trees that were taken out are still waiting to be hauled away - but the ecology blocks are off to the side, which opens a short section of the trail. As I regretfully resigned my position as the <a href="http://ctc-of-sc.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Centennial Trail Coalition Chairman</a> - at the last meeting - I heard of the success of the
<a href="http://www.heraldnet.com/news/hands-on-exhibits-will-let-you-learn-about-the-centennial-trail/" target="_blank">History on the Centennial Trail</a>
event. The most common question asked; was when the Whitehorse would
be paved... I had wanted to attend this event - I could have maybe
changed some minds - but life got in the way.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v8niE-i5T64/V-KwGBkG8zI/AAAAAAAATg0/CidCSys4rt8VSbx8vUOh6TQTyQat8z9iwCEw/s1600/IMG_6334.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v8niE-i5T64/V-KwGBkG8zI/AAAAAAAATg0/CidCSys4rt8VSbx8vUOh6TQTyQat8z9iwCEw/s400/IMG_6334.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Compaction~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Recently Parks released this information on the trail usage.<i> "Over 12,000 people annually are already enjoying the trail, but when it is fully ready for use the projections expect almost 15 time as many visitors per year. Part of the future of the Whitehorse Trail builds on the expectation that Snohomish County needs to be ready for a 25% growth by 2035. As noted above, the most consistent question from people is about the surfacing plan. The proposal plans to put down a compacted surface adequate for ADA use." </i><br />
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As you can tell from the photo above, compaction for ADA use is hard - very hard - but certainly not as hard as paving.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gNoEjX9VroA/V-KwqVVEXUI/AAAAAAAATg0/HNZ-KFYUr7Y2HrBhMiCPAe0npUR8aCKSwCEw/s1600/IMG_6336.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gNoEjX9VroA/V-KwqVVEXUI/AAAAAAAATg0/HNZ-KFYUr7Y2HrBhMiCPAe0npUR8aCKSwCEw/s400/IMG_6336.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soft~</td></tr>
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The softer, somewhat sandy surface that was of course my preference - won't happen. We are in desperate need of a <a href="http://www.bchw.org/" target="_blank">BCH </a>person willing to take over as Equestrian Representative for the Coalition. There are also upcoming changes proposed for <a href="https://snohomishcountywa.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Lord-Hill-Regional-Park-35" target="_blank">Lord Hill</a> - & Joan too, is in need of help & support. If no one steps up - the rolling stone - already covered with moss - will be rolling on paving - as more & more of the area's once designated for horses could be lost.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SEmPUdUfDSg/V-KxNW3TzoI/AAAAAAAAThA/ujFt_1uBFdkJ8spUlX-0GckIgLk2Vma9QCEw/s1600/IMG_6338.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SEmPUdUfDSg/V-KxNW3TzoI/AAAAAAAAThA/ujFt_1uBFdkJ8spUlX-0GckIgLk2Vma9QCEw/s400/IMG_6338.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Current surface~</td></tr>
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The leaves are already starting to fall & the smell was incredible. The most optimistic plans now are for the Whitehorse to open about this time next year. One of the things I'd hoped to do - was to ride it point-to-point :-(<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CPtHAOg9eY0/V-KxZgDbOdI/AAAAAAAAThA/fa9LypsRqdELRkXAvgfezFBoM3OG8mSkQCEw/s1600/IMG_6339.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CPtHAOg9eY0/V-KxZgDbOdI/AAAAAAAAThA/fa9LypsRqdELRkXAvgfezFBoM3OG8mSkQCEw/s400/IMG_6339.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah~</td></tr>
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Farah picked up on my melancholy mood... She's watched as we've been cleaning out the barn, all the people who've been visiting - strangers, friends & family. A big change is in the wind for us...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yvM4014Hz1g/V-KxwbJGHJI/AAAAAAAAThA/rgmVFt0aktIADkRxlPdH0gfkQKHlXchywCEw/s1600/IMG_6340.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yvM4014Hz1g/V-KxwbJGHJI/AAAAAAAAThA/rgmVFt0aktIADkRxlPdH0gfkQKHlXchywCEw/s400/IMG_6340.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dripping sap~</td></tr>
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We headed back, we got in Farah's little run - but thinking of that Bear - I didn't let her hit her higher speeds. I know I've been bored - if I dare say that! Having ridden these trails for so many years, as riding partners came & went... Looking <i>so</i> forward to seeing fresh areas, riding new places & having new friends to ride with!</div><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span><br />
<i><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt;">Post Script~ This ended up as my last ride as a Washington State resident<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">. It was beautiful, it was fun & it was fitting<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">~</span></span> </span></i>
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HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-32909991794141320002016-09-14T09:44:00.001-07:002016-09-20T10:35:13.307-07:00& The Beat Goes On~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The daily rhythm here on the Homestead has remained the same - yet has been inextricably changed forever - in just a few weeks...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfXqEeO8xNs/V9lyv3hnoEI/AAAAAAAATfE/47vg_zHS15cbdFfc7fnjo9Mxber5wN4jQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pfXqEeO8xNs/V9lyv3hnoEI/AAAAAAAATfE/47vg_zHS15cbdFfc7fnjo9Mxber5wN4jQCLcB/s400/IMG_9403.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hotel Greenfield</td></tr>
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Four-years ago - when Dad passed & we traveled to Iowa - the seed of an idea was born. We both felt so <i>at home</i>. From when we crossed over the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/mnrr/index.htm" target="_blank">Missouri</a> - I asked Butch to pull over - I couldn't wait to get out & breathe in the feel of <i>home</i>! We both commented on how much we loved the country. From the time we checked into <a href="http://www.hotel-greenfield.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Greenfield</a> - everyone we met made us feel like we were long-lost relatives - which I soon found out - I was! :-) Word got out that we were in town & soon we were meeting those <i>shirt-tail</i> relatives that remembered me, better than I remembered them! :-)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SgQM-6fbCZE/V9lzONLrC2I/AAAAAAAATfI/FTKj6ROEq9A-i8eNUOUy7XWZKCdAuFOfQCLcB/s1600/IMG_9378.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SgQM-6fbCZE/V9lzONLrC2I/AAAAAAAATfI/FTKj6ROEq9A-i8eNUOUy7XWZKCdAuFOfQCLcB/s400/IMG_9378.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our house in town~</td></tr>
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I started school in Greenfield & my favorite early memories of childhood were made here. When my parents decided to relocate to Boulder - I was devastated - but each Summer either Mom or Dad would drive us out to visit our Grandparents. I spent as much time as I could on Grandma's farm. Of course having <a href="http://hogehomestead.blogspot.com/2014/01/my-first-mare.html" target="_blank">my mare</a> there was a huge motivator. :-) Every Summer too, at one point or another - Grandma would look at me & say; "You'll be the one to come back."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Et2XDm3gZY/V9l1Xu0pSsI/AAAAAAAATfM/p3zGLBDJIKERuIYNZY8vP2hYja__nplOwCLcB/s1600/IMG_9490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Et2XDm3gZY/V9l1Xu0pSsI/AAAAAAAATfM/p3zGLBDJIKERuIYNZY8vP2hYja__nplOwCLcB/s400/IMG_9490.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Farm~</td></tr>
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A few times over the years, Grandma would write about a farm coming on the market - she thought that 80-acres would be the minimum we'd need :-) It never happened - the timing was never <i>right</i>. But now - things have changed - the appeal of living in the mid-west has only increased as we've grown older.<br />
<br />
We took the plunge - Butch has been ready for a while now - to back off the hectic pace of the jobs he's been on & a commute that takes a huge chunk out of his life. Today - he gives notice to his employer (24-years October 11th) & our transition will be rolling!<br />
<br />
As we gave up our positions with the local BCH Chapters - news started trickling out :-) I've already been asked to help with a new State BCHIA! I also let the AERC know of our change & Monica plans to put me to work! I've already been invited to a ride :-)<br />
<br />
I'll continue posts here - until the day the<i> Homestead</i> is no longer~ Our new blog is up! A continuation of our life & times. You can find it at; <a href="http://hogehomeplace.blogspot.com/">http://hogehomeplace.blogspot.com/~</a><br />
We hope you'll visit us there! </div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-1032352106813683442016-09-12T19:00:00.001-07:002021-01-01T11:24:15.275-08:00Feel of the Forest~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Today - it was time for Farah & I to move out... We're both so used to being out on our own - I think the mare craves it as much as I do.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IaEz8o7n6vY/V9dCAGSu_0I/AAAAAAAATeo/bSA9LbTSwa4L0Dx6MRO7yWKeZBscuMuYgCEw/s1600/IMG_6270.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IaEz8o7n6vY/V9dCAGSu_0I/AAAAAAAATeo/bSA9LbTSwa4L0Dx6MRO7yWKeZBscuMuYgCEw/s400/IMG_6270.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whitehorse~</td></tr>
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It was just a stunning day - clear, bright, blue & with that incredible on-shore flow that kept the leaves of the trees dancing all day long. I'd had a bunch of calls to make this morning - so it was noon by the time we arrived at Victoria's parking. Several trailers there & as many cars parked along side the road.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Css3V5GBRXc/V9dCWtv8bdI/AAAAAAAATew/3qb2AZPI2_w5gZHNlQEjUm6rIJgDW6jJwCEw/s1600/IMG_6263.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Css3V5GBRXc/V9dCWtv8bdI/AAAAAAAATew/3qb2AZPI2_w5gZHNlQEjUm6rIJgDW6jJwCEw/s400/IMG_6263.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunbeams~</td></tr>
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Leigh & Kathy left a little while ahead of us - but we came up on them just a mile or so out - spooking Leigh's mare a little :-) We chatted - Leigh told the story of her encounter with a Bear & bees too - on the same ride! I was pretty cautious going up where I'd heard the bears cross the road.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zEAr0074ko4/V9dcubGma_I/AAAAAAAATe0/t4KuM6SMtcwrmjpDSIJSeRCufndcY1BogCLcB/s1600/IMG_6264.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zEAr0074ko4/V9dcubGma_I/AAAAAAAATe0/t4KuM6SMtcwrmjpDSIJSeRCufndcY1BogCLcB/s400/IMG_6264.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even the weeds are pretty~</td></tr>
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Farah was on her <i>A</i>-game - we were making time all the way to the monument. There - we ran into two of our Trailduster friends & again enjoyed visiting. As busy as I've been - it felt so good to be out on such a gorgeous day.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NalDQLR28u8/V9dCS7XE5_I/AAAAAAAATeo/5lF9l2cOx78VRCpK5-O3eLRq4Y6pZvwKwCEw/s1600/IMG_6276.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NalDQLR28u8/V9dCS7XE5_I/AAAAAAAATeo/5lF9l2cOx78VRCpK5-O3eLRq4Y6pZvwKwCEw/s400/IMG_6276.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah~</td></tr>
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We crossed over to the Lake McMurray overlook - Farah took advantage of a phone call I had to answer to continue her lunch break :-) I could hear the roar of ATV's coming all the way across the valley from the Morgan Horse side of the tree farm. Farah even stopped once to listen.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N7kyYdjm2GA/V9dClCodFzI/AAAAAAAATeo/2K67X4PT_FgaqpL3-6w_TPj1nNnVSut4QCEw/s1600/IMG_6283.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N7kyYdjm2GA/V9dClCodFzI/AAAAAAAATeo/2K67X4PT_FgaqpL3-6w_TPj1nNnVSut4QCEw/s400/IMG_6283.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whitehorse & Three Fingers</td></tr>
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The little trees that were planted in the clear-cut are growing so fast that I can see this view disappearing in just a few years :-(<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-11ZuHth-7c4/V9dCzI_ELQI/AAAAAAAATew/ZBerBj1tZGoCZWLTUhJ1DL4Zb3aR2COCwCEw/s1600/IMG_6287.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-11ZuHth-7c4/V9dCzI_ELQI/AAAAAAAATew/ZBerBj1tZGoCZWLTUhJ1DL4Zb3aR2COCwCEw/s400/IMG_6287.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The slip & slide~</td></tr>
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I walked down from the top on foot, then re-mounted just before entering this trail. Such a pretty section, Farah's hind feet slid several times. It's almost like a slip & slide - the dirt is so compacted. Once it rains - it will definitely be slippery. I couldn't even see a print from Farah's shoes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlqAkDGF4bA/V9dDD6gdoMI/AAAAAAAATeo/5yQF5EqEm1QBk5L-xjewkUjjy3yCEFSFQCEw/s1600/IMG_6290.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZlqAkDGF4bA/V9dDD6gdoMI/AAAAAAAATeo/5yQF5EqEm1QBk5L-xjewkUjjy3yCEFSFQCEw/s400/IMG_6290.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading down again~</td></tr>
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I wanted to go all the way to the bottom, but we ran out of time, so I took the other trail down to the old road that's mid-way on the mountain. There were a few blackberries ripe just as we went in. There's always been something about the <i>feel of the forest </i>on this mountain - even as clear-cut as it's been - it still retains something of the character that it must have had - when it was covered with old-growth.<br />
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When we started back up - Farah had the assent timed perfectly! She leaped into a full gallop & we flew! I did yell; "horse coming!" as we blasted up :-) She's never better than when she's at a full run! I yell "<i>Yippee</i>" & she turns on the afterburners :-) <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-30K08gvK-i4/V9dDL9FzLFI/AAAAAAAATeo/JXWz8ZX3oZkQe0VDzJWPUaR-6ZXq3mwwwCEw/s1600/IMG_6296.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-30K08gvK-i4/V9dDL9FzLFI/AAAAAAAATeo/JXWz8ZX3oZkQe0VDzJWPUaR-6ZXq3mwwwCEw/s400/IMG_6296.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Rainier</td></tr>
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We took the main old road back, again running into Leigh & Kathy. They had the same idea & wondered if the blow-down had been cleared. We went ahead - I told them if they didn't see us coming back their direction - it was clear :-) It was & I was rewarded with this view of Mt. Rainier! Stunning end to a fun ride~</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-91351335445390886312016-09-09T18:16:00.000-07:002016-09-09T18:38:06.299-07:00Lord Hill Learning Experience~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Joan & I had been planning to meet here for weeks. Today, we were so lucky to have such a beautiful day! Jennifer rode Cody - who was thrilled to have Farah for his companion - while Joan hiked & pointed us in the direction of the trails she wanted me to see :-)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kr5TW2sLHUo/V9NVI62t2YI/AAAAAAAATc4/l_ijE_9PnQYCx1N00ccCCKyo4JSkrnAfwCEw/s1600/IMG_6248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kr5TW2sLHUo/V9NVI62t2YI/AAAAAAAATc4/l_ijE_9PnQYCx1N00ccCCKyo4JSkrnAfwCEw/s400/IMG_6248.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah & Cody</td></tr>
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One portion of a new trail - 2.7-miles was as beautiful as any I've seen here. There were several trailers in the parking area & we ran into quite a few riders - one group honing their Search & Rescue skills.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">By one of the wetlands~</td></tr>
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It's so nice to see an Equestrian park that gets so much use <i>by</i> Equestrians! As the only one in Snohomish County - we hope that our numbers support the continued use of these trails as bike groups lobby for expanded space.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bXBWapaAKn8/V9NVh_FYDWI/AAAAAAAATcs/Dev5TOHt0a43y0_1O_v3Z7nWz5x2b9T2ACEw/s1600/IMG_6252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bXBWapaAKn8/V9NVh_FYDWI/AAAAAAAATcs/Dev5TOHt0a43y0_1O_v3Z7nWz5x2b9T2ACEw/s400/IMG_6252.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jenn on Cody~</td></tr>
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This park loved by so many for so long, is a gem into & of itself. With such an incredible diversity of the native plant communities - that manage to hold their own - even against the ever increasing invasive species. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ml9EMiFxk8/V9NVySPMDSI/AAAAAAAATc0/K9jNHcr0BqUS9Twp4Kc9eEthDKUWC4OeQCEw/s1600/IMG_6254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ml9EMiFxk8/V9NVySPMDSI/AAAAAAAATc0/K9jNHcr0BqUS9Twp4Kc9eEthDKUWC4OeQCEw/s400/IMG_6254.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Erratic Rock!</td></tr>
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Riding this trail - it's hard to miss this incredible boulder! Joan told us that it is an <a href="https://nsidc.org/cryosphere/glaciers/gallery/erratics.html" target="_blank">erratic rock</a> - transported by a Glacier & left behind as the Glacier melted. To think of the size of an ice sheet capable of moving a rock this large, is truly beyond the imagination!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f660bR6PnAk/V9NWGRmfFYI/AAAAAAAATdM/UU81gyf1YBUXcrAhUySpotr5An9JZcgygCEw/s1600/IMG_6257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f660bR6PnAk/V9NWGRmfFYI/AAAAAAAATdM/UU81gyf1YBUXcrAhUySpotr5An9JZcgygCEw/s400/IMG_6257.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Other side of the rock~</td></tr>
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Farah was very good today, especially since she hadn't been out for over a week! Just one big buck on a steep downhill with a nice drop off the side! I know I'll have to get her out again & let her open up a little to burn off some <i>steam</i> :-)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UvtdCcde-tk/V9NWPAcXXtI/AAAAAAAATdM/yI1_t9X34yEp-XIlbbeanw_RqfkqJtdtgCEw/s1600/IMG_6258.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UvtdCcde-tk/V9NWPAcXXtI/AAAAAAAATdM/yI1_t9X34yEp-XIlbbeanw_RqfkqJtdtgCEw/s400/IMG_6258.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful little <i>bowl</i>~</td></tr>
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This park hosts so many Equestrian events; with room for over 70 rigs, it's one place where large events can be held. The new trail I rode today - designated LH2 adds distance & is for horses only. Even if only 2.7-miles - it's a very pleasant ride - so nice to not have to be watching for the next bike to fly around a corner.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0t_1x0FMBiw/V9NWiXiNQSI/AAAAAAAATdM/Yf0N3F8k7O4OtxqGrVknpiKgybYzdesDgCEw/s1600/IMG_6260.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0t_1x0FMBiw/V9NWiXiNQSI/AAAAAAAATdM/Yf0N3F8k7O4OtxqGrVknpiKgybYzdesDgCEw/s400/IMG_6260.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The old Quarry~</td></tr>
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Already the bike lobby has increased their footprint here - with bike only trails. Originally bikes were allowed in on a <i>trial</i> basis - continued use would depend on whether conflicts between the user groups occurred. Another concern was possible degradation to the sensitive/natural areas. As most of us who ride the Victoria trails know - mountain bikes have <a href="http://forums.mtbr.com/trail-building-advocacy/compacting-tread-horse-bike-use-831335.html" target="_blank">compacted the trails</a> to the point where the horses slip on the downhill sections. Now, bikes have trails in the central & north pipeline areas here.<br />
<br />
If you do search some of the bike sites - you'll be shocked at the bad publicity that's out there regarding horses on trails. <a href="https://www.imba.com/resources/research/trail-science/environmental-impacts-mountain-biking-science-review-and-best-practices" target="_blank">Environmental impact</a> studies are relatively new - since the numbers of mountain bikes on the trails have increased exponentially the last few years - at least in our region. If you read too much - it might scare you as to what the future may hold...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kgR9Qw32QKQ/V9NU2M2SiGI/AAAAAAAATc4/ubQIlC-JYFYwz8EliAetuNVBE208s6TuwCEw/s1600/7.18%2Bmile%2Broute%257E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kgR9Qw32QKQ/V9NU2M2SiGI/AAAAAAAATc4/ubQIlC-JYFYwz8EliAetuNVBE208s6TuwCEw/s400/7.18%2Bmile%2Broute%257E.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our route~</td></tr>
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Again - it takes participation - Equestrian participation at planning meetings, trail-clearing parties, charity events, wherever we can keep our <i>right-to-ride</i> in the public eye... </div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-36510291129837384552016-08-30T16:07:00.000-07:002016-08-30T16:08:22.957-07:00Riding with Lynn~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It was not from lack of trying - but it's been busy out for me. Finally - we found a day that worked for us both to ride! It had been way too long!<br />
<br />
Waking to cool temperatures & cloud cover seemed strange after the string of sunshine days! I even took my jacket. We decided on Lord Hill - one place that isn't too long a drive for either of us. It was only my second visit this year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ofD03Yywjg/V8YNqMjPLvI/AAAAAAAATYk/HmW37cgiWA4sRBXlRFnhB3YSxt-rWyR4QCEw/s1600/IMG_6189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ofD03Yywjg/V8YNqMjPLvI/AAAAAAAATYk/HmW37cgiWA4sRBXlRFnhB3YSxt-rWyR4QCEw/s400/IMG_6189.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the trails~</td></tr>
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It's easy to forget how lush & beautiful these trails are. Both mares were in season, Farah giving Sophie snarky looks - I smacked her for it. Lynn was a perfect trail guide.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nPs9Q6JYcWQ/V8YNUElXYgI/AAAAAAAATYc/2bg3Mf97q-EvYk9cp3Hs7nW9PyPaPF7AQCEw/s1600/IMG_6193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nPs9Q6JYcWQ/V8YNUElXYgI/AAAAAAAATYc/2bg3Mf97q-EvYk9cp3Hs7nW9PyPaPF7AQCEw/s400/IMG_6193.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the newer trail~</td></tr>
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The string of wetlands through here are so beautiful & the quiet of the morning was wonderful. Besides a few birds, all was serene. Taking one trail early in the ride, Farah came to a quick halt. I looked down to see where a very large hole had opened in the trail, going all the way across into the Salmonberry. It looked deep - so we backed the mares up & went a different way. It will take a Lot of rock to fill it in.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7VjhZpb_yqQ/V8YOLW4yqHI/AAAAAAAATYs/UJ17EgBJP2wjSabQ1pvL0-uJzTTnb2q1ACEw/s1600/IMG_6205.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7VjhZpb_yqQ/V8YOLW4yqHI/AAAAAAAATYs/UJ17EgBJP2wjSabQ1pvL0-uJzTTnb2q1ACEw/s400/IMG_6205.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the River~</td></tr>
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On the way to the river, Farah was walking down the middle of the old road, when I felt her drop & a front foot had broken through into another pretty deep hole. I was thankful that we weren't trotting!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BupUortyrSc/V8YORnSYGhI/AAAAAAAATY0/92vWz3CXnN4QM1omgTCUJzs9SFAlu57UwCEw/s1600/imagej11peg_0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="221" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BupUortyrSc/V8YORnSYGhI/AAAAAAAATY0/92vWz3CXnN4QM1omgTCUJzs9SFAlu57UwCEw/s400/imagej11peg_0.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Connie & Farah</td></tr>
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The Snohomish River was So low! We could see fish jumping. Farah waded out quite a distance from shore before she started yawning :-)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XrwQf4LOnF4/V8YORI_1-pI/AAAAAAAATYw/E7RGSr7GwYw8JXyvQCfQL2pXw-w_Ssi-gCEw/s1600/IMG_6207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XrwQf4LOnF4/V8YORI_1-pI/AAAAAAAATYw/E7RGSr7GwYw8JXyvQCfQL2pXw-w_Ssi-gCEw/s400/IMG_6207.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lynn & Sophie</td></tr>
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Sophie was totally distracted by something in the distance - No swishing tail! Both mares had a nice sheen of sweat by the time we'd started looping back. I could feel that the humidity was high & was surprised when I downloaded my Garmin that we'd done over 1,400 feet of elevation gain.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-upTi1aKIx1o/V8YNk1gu_9I/AAAAAAAATYg/5sMxLYOmb_EyOVZGJmnqabiKjTqKXddbACEw/s1600/IMG_6196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-upTi1aKIx1o/V8YNk1gu_9I/AAAAAAAATYg/5sMxLYOmb_EyOVZGJmnqabiKjTqKXddbACEw/s400/IMG_6196.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Falling leaves!</td></tr>
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Leaves were already starting to fall from the huge Cottonwoods! It even smelled like Fall! Of course the cool, cloudy day contributed to the feeling.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dxAGRegF6l4/V8YOSfY1RPI/AAAAAAAATY4/uwOzbqfvkxQLTlgCvFc7_xJoI4nCqGcUwCEw/s1600/Lor%2BHill%2BRoute.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dxAGRegF6l4/V8YOSfY1RPI/AAAAAAAATY4/uwOzbqfvkxQLTlgCvFc7_xJoI4nCqGcUwCEw/s400/Lor%2BHill%2BRoute.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our route~</td></tr>
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I had to ask Lynn to cut our ride a little short. We got in almost ten-miles & if I'd had more time, Lynn said we could have squeezed in about 13. The only place we missed was the lookout. Hopefully - we'll do that next time!<br />
<br /></div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-10119266722566462512016-08-22T20:00:00.001-07:002021-10-27T20:23:07.731-07:00Round & Round We Go~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
A beautiful, cool day with a perfect breeze. After another busy weekend, everyone else had the same idea I did - Ride! The parking at Victoria was full except for one spot, but the trailer at the far end was leaving so I waited. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITx5wjB9r4A/V7y5-GFf5tI/AAAAAAAATWw/U5tRziDzUTsnK7Ej4TkhJa_PJjuU-c80QCEw/s1600/IMG_6170.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITx5wjB9r4A/V7y5-GFf5tI/AAAAAAAATWw/U5tRziDzUTsnK7Ej4TkhJa_PJjuU-c80QCEw/s400/IMG_6170.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Full parking~</td></tr>
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I'd seen a small white car out on the road coming in, but didn't pay any further attention until we were leaving. As we walked up to the mounting rock, here was the little car, taking up the last space in the lot - driver & passenger gone. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vjgfgi_FViA/V7y6UAgbpDI/AAAAAAAATXM/YcZYIegfBq8L7omoLakDBZKmZ8fDlPzEACEw/s1600/IMG_6171.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vjgfgi_FViA/V7y6UAgbpDI/AAAAAAAATXM/YcZYIegfBq8L7omoLakDBZKmZ8fDlPzEACEw/s400/IMG_6171.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small car - big parking spot~</td></tr>
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I have to admit that I was stuck speechless. I can't imagine how anyone could be so thoughtless - but someone was...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vHJ1X1Q8TRU/V7y6WnNQU5I/AAAAAAAATXM/a8gTpSv45gQr82tgB1psLmTihDs-YYa-gCEw/s1600/IMG_6172.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vHJ1X1Q8TRU/V7y6WnNQU5I/AAAAAAAATXM/a8gTpSv45gQr82tgB1psLmTihDs-YYa-gCEw/s400/IMG_6172.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Past the lodge~</td></tr>
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You can just see the Glass School lodge in the far background. Now the mess from the logging is piled - whether to burn or what I don't know. Sure not the beautiful view from the lodge that they had - I'm sure.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Al2rLuMa7v4/V7y6jKi15pI/AAAAAAAATXM/lBvwH33ZCWkUWM1pgsRIDTog3l_ef7F4ACEw/s1600/IMG_6173.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Al2rLuMa7v4/V7y6jKi15pI/AAAAAAAATXM/lBvwH33ZCWkUWM1pgsRIDTog3l_ef7F4ACEw/s400/IMG_6173.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah hears the equipment~</td></tr>
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When I think of all the years I've ridden here - I've probably been around this mountain too many times to count - yet it's still a gem of the lower Cascade foothills. Before we reached Fast Trail, we heard riders coming down a trail & met up with Leigh, Marsha & Linda. Linda was leading a <i>trail tour</i> & we had fun catching up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07rgB04Cxws/V7y61BBw7AI/AAAAAAAATXY/YlctpgnXzwAX_bYMGuTRlG-TiyrPCK73wCEw/s1600/IMG_6177.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07rgB04Cxws/V7y61BBw7AI/AAAAAAAATXY/YlctpgnXzwAX_bYMGuTRlG-TiyrPCK73wCEw/s400/IMG_6177.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Washington~</td></tr>
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Farah & I headed on up the mountain, I had to be home early & wanted to cover some ground. I was amazed at the bikes on the trails. Everyone pleasant, we could hear one guy coming for a mile - he was playing his music loud!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1QUvTMwsO5I/V7zA4zOunYI/AAAAAAAATXo/PBKYkH3lqLIZzd6f8Nin647fVEUstjESACLcB/s1600/20160822_133123.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1QUvTMwsO5I/V7zA4zOunYI/AAAAAAAATXo/PBKYkH3lqLIZzd6f8Nin647fVEUstjESACLcB/s400/20160822_133123.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah at lunch~</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Up at the Monument - it was almost like a social club! We all chatted, Farah had her photo taken & on we went. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zDBKE7Vns9g/V7y7XWVK9rI/AAAAAAAATXY/7P6izqEEMv0QZEbaQx0BLpm8FKdPr1bFQCEw/s1600/IMG_6180.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zDBKE7Vns9g/V7y7XWVK9rI/AAAAAAAATXY/7P6izqEEMv0QZEbaQx0BLpm8FKdPr1bFQCEw/s400/IMG_6180.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the Deep Dark Woods~</td></tr>
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Farah likes the trail through these woods, I have no idea why. She always likes to stop at least once & just cock a hid leg & listen... She's done this since our early days together & I enjoy listening to <i>sounds of silence</i> as much as she does. Even without the peaks out today - it was stunning. Super fresh air,
clouds blowing by - maybe low 70's - just my kind of a day! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Zv38jtZX5c/V7y7f0dWeBI/AAAAAAAATXY/tYOZZzI9r4AmmbY_lKAb2B0VFioewH5fgCEw/s1600/IMG_6182.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6Zv38jtZX5c/V7y7f0dWeBI/AAAAAAAATXY/tYOZZzI9r4AmmbY_lKAb2B0VFioewH5fgCEw/s400/IMG_6182.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading down~</td></tr>
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We took the trail down from the lower intersection, Farah wanted to go further - but we took the upper road - then had our run up the long hill. I love the sound of her steel clad hooves striking the ground faster & faster! Again - at the top she backed off the pace within a couple strides - taking the turn for the trail in one smooth move. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1qKrvcxbhU/V7zFk0mUrxI/AAAAAAAATX0/REk4kl2_sIIm3sXHS5PNOmgoi5FX97nuQCLcB/s1600/20160822_153437.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f1qKrvcxbhU/V7zFk0mUrxI/AAAAAAAATX0/REk4kl2_sIIm3sXHS5PNOmgoi5FX97nuQCLcB/s400/20160822_153437.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the big trees~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Farah remembered before I did, our last ride a tree had been across the road, so we took the trail through the big Cedars. So beautiful there & a nice way to end another ride.</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-64873874775850043112016-08-19T14:23:00.000-07:002016-08-19T14:34:09.100-07:00It's HOT!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As I walked up to the woods this morning - things were already warming up! Even in the shade, it was warm, without the nice breeze we had yesterday. I made the circuit - picking up branches on my way around. By the time I was back at the Cottage, I checked to see if there was any
sign of the bindweed that I've been working to eradicate at the edge of the creek. The
weed had established itself at the base of the Salmonberry bushes. The soil is moist & rich - so the vine
winds it's way up to the top of the Salmonberry branches & blooms. Sure enough
- there were two places where sickly looking vines were growing up. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EmATRk0t8rE/V7dub5VAt5I/AAAAAAAATVE/hfRm36-5XCYQHMhCPRX_utbKfUT83iDeACEw/s1600/20160819_123340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EmATRk0t8rE/V7dub5VAt5I/AAAAAAAATVE/hfRm36-5XCYQHMhCPRX_utbKfUT83iDeACEw/s400/20160819_123340.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the Cottage~</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I sat down my cup, my phone & went for the pruners & weed spray. Soon I was cutting, chopping dead <a href="http://pnwplants.wsu.edu/PlantDisplay.aspx?PlantID=280" target="_blank">Salmonberry</a> & spot spraying the bindweed. It's crazy how quickly this area can get out of control - or maybe it just <i>seems</i> quick!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2LgI95hZy_4/V7dzv2ohrnI/AAAAAAAATVU/0eE2P8m7rfkEl3qz3BKb6-BCIP_g2oTmQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2LgI95hZy_4/V7dzv2ohrnI/AAAAAAAATVU/0eE2P8m7rfkEl3qz3BKb6-BCIP_g2oTmQCLcB/s400/IMG_2297.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8-02-2011</td></tr>
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The entire area has gone through many changes. I've tried different shrubs & flowers, most are unsuccessful. The <a href="https://www.na.fs.fed.us/pubs/silvics_manual/volume_2/acer/macrophyllum.htm" target="_blank">Big Leaf Maple</a> grows, casting more shade, the <a href="http://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=phar3" target="_blank">reed canary grass</a>, that I've fought forever got started in the ornamental <a href="http://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2506/golden-variegated-sweet-flag/" target="_blank">sweet flag</a>. Now, I'm faced with killing the sweet flag to get to the reed canary grass :-(<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uf5QcrYk8nE/V7d0xhkxmeI/AAAAAAAATVY/LKdKNGjJKbo-Cpy5A0pbHapaBLGy_w_kgCLcB/s1600/DSC_7434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uf5QcrYk8nE/V7d0xhkxmeI/AAAAAAAATVY/LKdKNGjJKbo-Cpy5A0pbHapaBLGy_w_kgCLcB/s400/DSC_7434.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grass filling in~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I ended up working my way all around the edges, even finding, the hard way... <a href="http://www.kpluwonders.org/content/why-did-blackberry-brambles-become-such-nw-problem" target="_blank">Blackberry</a>! Yesterday too, I worked most of the day just to cut things back off the trail past the south end of the house.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HFqt_iXYACY/V7d1baPS3AI/AAAAAAAATVc/VjRYdp42iFcSt0h70HzTbD2vgcDDp4BvACLcB/s1600/DSC_7435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HFqt_iXYACY/V7d1baPS3AI/AAAAAAAATVc/VjRYdp42iFcSt0h70HzTbD2vgcDDp4BvACLcB/s400/DSC_7435.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everything cut back!</td></tr>
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It doesn't look like much - I should have taken a <i>before</i>! The <a href="http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/sycamore/sycamore-tree-care.htm" target="_blank">Sycamore Tre</a><a href="http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/sycamore/sycamore-tree-care.htm" target="_blank">e</a> has grown so much that the <a href="http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/smoke-tree/growing-smoke-trees.htm" target="_blank">Smoke tree</a> doesn't get enough light. I cut it way back & will probably take it out. I've had Farah five-years now & during that time - gave up all my yard work for riding a lot of miles! Working on the landscaping moved down my to-do list.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T3OWGzOnnms/V7d2m93PVfI/AAAAAAAATVo/DjrX8rhwhgwsq8uyyE-zX_DV0S_nWr8GACLcB/s1600/DSC_7439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T3OWGzOnnms/V7d2m93PVfI/AAAAAAAATVo/DjrX8rhwhgwsq8uyyE-zX_DV0S_nWr8GACLcB/s400/DSC_7439.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Results of my labor~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When Butch pulled in the gate last night - he took one look at me & said; "We'll go out for dinner." :-) Worked for me! Now, we have all the mess above to cut up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cPeo4BtwqSo/V7d2_QgRQQI/AAAAAAAATVs/vkwBhE_X2mU76PFMTeeRvkDZ41NJ49LXACLcB/s1600/DSC_7440.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cPeo4BtwqSo/V7d2_QgRQQI/AAAAAAAATVs/vkwBhE_X2mU76PFMTeeRvkDZ41NJ49LXACLcB/s400/DSC_7440.JPG" width="263" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rascal</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Coming back to the house at lunch, I found my trusty Beagle boy laying on the cool concrete, waiting patiently for the cookie that he'd expected hours earlier :-) I hope it cools off soon, so I'll be more willing to haul out & hit the trail!</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-1317198671539178102016-08-17T18:42:00.000-07:002016-08-17T21:07:29.016-07:00Seeking Shade & Whitehorse Update~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Yesterday, when I was driving west on 84th toward Marysville - I was the only car on the road. That doesn't happen nearly as often as it used to! Up ahead I saw a logging truck start to pull out - loaded with the logs from my trails :-( Sickening...<br />
<br />
Today - with higher temperatures on the way - I had to squeak in a ride! Normally, I would have ridden out from home - no longer... Bracken it was~<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A4GDGefxfs8/V7T9FE4LU7I/AAAAAAAATSU/EyB1N0yXIxU3kB0YhW-LlcCcpUn6cBjaQCLcB/s1600/IMG_6125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A4GDGefxfs8/V7T9FE4LU7I/AAAAAAAATSU/EyB1N0yXIxU3kB0YhW-LlcCcpUn6cBjaQCLcB/s400/IMG_6125.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the cool of the shade~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Only a couple trailers in the parking area & we ran into two ladies riding out as we were going in. Harvey Creek was our first stop. Even before she took a drink - Farah was yawning :-) <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Su-L0Jx-52w/V7T9XAgkeYI/AAAAAAAATSo/iEtYD8APYG4gNbFSiEaxX8bzlYu23DgMACEw/s1600/IMG_6127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Su-L0Jx-52w/V7T9XAgkeYI/AAAAAAAATSo/iEtYD8APYG4gNbFSiEaxX8bzlYu23DgMACEw/s400/IMG_6127.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the creek~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We did what's become our usual circuit that gives us just over ten-miles, unless we take additional detours or short cut back. It was warm, but with a nice breeze that kept the bugs away.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7uR03G0hJYY/V7T9PanNppI/AAAAAAAATSo/HLV-c9C5ry0jCArV47u-XAAuksXaAInIwCEw/s1600/IMG_6134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7uR03G0hJYY/V7T9PanNppI/AAAAAAAATSo/HLV-c9C5ry0jCArV47u-XAAuksXaAInIwCEw/s400/IMG_6134.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once a beautiful trail~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Deciding that I'd like some fresh blackberries, we took the hill down through them. No luck there - the weather has been too warm & dry for the second crop. At the bottom, we took what was a beautiful trotting trail - one of the best here, until the tree farm did some logging. The deep track from the Excavator was never repaired.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGbWG5wD99c/V7T9vfZN19I/AAAAAAAATSw/4YCD47czBlwi-JacjmirbmVTUk0P9MaAQCEw/s1600/IMG_6140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGbWG5wD99c/V7T9vfZN19I/AAAAAAAATSw/4YCD47czBlwi-JacjmirbmVTUk0P9MaAQCEw/s400/IMG_6140.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah feasts on <a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/graminoid/phaaru/all.html" target="_blank">Reed Canary Grass</a>~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I've posted photos & information on these two horrible invasive weeds several times. If you take time to read the link - you will understand the importance of eradication. It's such a shame that Snohomish County doesn't have the funds to do more... Private landowners could help - but most don't.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RqEBIPYbe0E/V7T95mkYnpI/AAAAAAAATS8/DcrJbllr8lUBeEGCEIpoBxxH_QbQAditQCEw/s1600/IMG_6143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RqEBIPYbe0E/V7T95mkYnpI/AAAAAAAATS8/DcrJbllr8lUBeEGCEIpoBxxH_QbQAditQCEw/s400/IMG_6143.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/plants/knotweed.shtml" target="_blank">Japanese Knotweed</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The knot-weed is in full bloom - it's really beautiful stuff - too bad that it's SO invasive! Roots that can go 90 feet deep! What's worse is to see it gaining a foothold - spreading over a larger area of the shoreline than it had even last Summer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JTKa8zjHIEU/V7T-E998icI/AAAAAAAATS8/8A9Cjf6ivukDhg3V-MtZbpjFwA460vlBQCEw/s1600/IMG_6145.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JTKa8zjHIEU/V7T-E998icI/AAAAAAAATS8/8A9Cjf6ivukDhg3V-MtZbpjFwA460vlBQCEw/s400/IMG_6145.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah's windswept profile~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Even if it's not one of those long beautiful manes, it is thick!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u0jg_XwaO4o/V7T-Wouk2dI/AAAAAAAATTM/eaH9RAFXNtgRy4PPrKOvva41q11YE6kFgCEw/s1600/IMG_6148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-u0jg_XwaO4o/V7T-Wouk2dI/AAAAAAAATTM/eaH9RAFXNtgRy4PPrKOvva41q11YE6kFgCEw/s400/IMG_6148.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah's sleek profile :-)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We'd already had our lunch at Tin Bridge, I didn't want to go out into
the hot sun for the trek to Cloverdale. There is good news though! Last Sunday, Butch & I stopped to see the progress on trail.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zenWGJe1WkY/V7UKp-Ob4II/AAAAAAAATTY/aauznC3u34MuNrpZph2Vb9X_mKj7jzqMQCLcB/s1600/20160814_152005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zenWGJe1WkY/V7UKp-Ob4II/AAAAAAAATTY/aauznC3u34MuNrpZph2Vb9X_mKj7jzqMQCLcB/s400/20160814_152005.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Whitehorse!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
How sweet it was to see the infamous <i>Hole </i>no longer an issue & the trail has been pushed through! Rumor was that the <i>hole</i> was declared a <i>wetland</i> - if you can imagine that! The area was dry. A large amount of work now completed - since I'd been here on July 20th. <a href="http://hogehomestead.blogspot.com/2016/07/whitehorse-news.html" target="_blank">Post~</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nCrXWQ9sajA/V7UMNgSalFI/AAAAAAAATTo/rTLwjlF_LMwARRTVQ23UxibS0mAeluACACLcB/s1600/20160814_152101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nCrXWQ9sajA/V7UMNgSalFI/AAAAAAAATTo/rTLwjlF_LMwARRTVQ23UxibS0mAeluACACLcB/s400/20160814_152101.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The <i>Hole</i> is to the left~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The slight re-route did make a little curve through here. We walked all the way to the end of the work area. The blackberries have again closed off the trail - just since I rode all the way through last June. <a href="http://hogehomestead.blogspot.com/2015/06/bracken-to-cicero-bridge.html" target="_blank">Post~</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lqso5dVw_7A/V7UL5ZFFsTI/AAAAAAAATTk/Fil3jfv_GWQpqzJanYv902l65i9ufxUTACEw/s1600/20160814_152400_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lqso5dVw_7A/V7UL5ZFFsTI/AAAAAAAATTk/Fil3jfv_GWQpqzJanYv902l65i9ufxUTACEw/s400/20160814_152400_001.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where the trail will continue~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today, we walked along the river bank so I could take a photo of Tin Bridge. The river is really low, probably near the same as it was this time last year.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aZ9nUiyZeu0/V7T-gwn7oyI/AAAAAAAATTM/8NWwEbN_j-oWZPQXYhI_JrVZ4EiLwLXNQCEw/s1600/IMG_6150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aZ9nUiyZeu0/V7T-gwn7oyI/AAAAAAAATTM/8NWwEbN_j-oWZPQXYhI_JrVZ4EiLwLXNQCEw/s400/IMG_6150.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tin Bridge~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We went all the way under the bridge, there was shade there after all! I looked up to see what was left of the branch that had been stuck here since the first time I took Farah over. <a href="http://hogehomestead.blogspot.com/2013/03/our-local-no-hands-bridge.html" target="_blank">Post~</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NlMECYNHswY/V7T_ANHzPHI/AAAAAAAATTM/Asi3N68WCA07TTHSWp67JOqiZ1_nIEowwCEw/s1600/IMG_6160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NlMECYNHswY/V7T_ANHzPHI/AAAAAAAATTM/Asi3N68WCA07TTHSWp67JOqiZ1_nIEowwCEw/s400/IMG_6160.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stuck under the bridge~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Just as we were leaving, I looked down & found a large bolt that had fallen off the bridge! It weighed at least 3 lbs! I contemplated trying to fit it in my saddle bag, but instead started carrying it. I love rocks & have quite a collection - always looking down while walking in rocky areas.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_pptS8ZUfM/V7UP5JFtZSI/AAAAAAAATT0/KpDc3YPX49sqZCB7HTcIkN4uSRkN6VEqACLcB/s1600/20160817_131122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w_pptS8ZUfM/V7UP5JFtZSI/AAAAAAAATT0/KpDc3YPX49sqZCB7HTcIkN4uSRkN6VEqACLcB/s400/20160817_131122.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My next find!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
How could I miss this?! Some type of man-made brick - but the incredibly interesting thing - was the chunks of marble that were embedded in it! I have to wonder where it came from & what it was? I did some checking & was surprised to find that marble has been <a href="http://quarriesandbeyond.org/articles_and_books/orewashstruct/orewashstruct.html" target="_blank">mined in Washington</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Om0JlPQlDuY/V7T_JZRafGI/AAAAAAAATTM/eBDfBVcp35YUxEYAXRDia-Ri1E6NAe2ygCEw/s1600/IMG_6161.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Om0JlPQlDuY/V7T_JZRafGI/AAAAAAAATTM/eBDfBVcp35YUxEYAXRDia-Ri1E6NAe2ygCEw/s400/IMG_6161.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upstream - North Fork of the Stillaquamish River~</td></tr>
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Now, I'm carrying a 10-pound brick & the rod & bolts from the bridge! After we climbed back up, I decided to <i>hide </i>both until Butch & I can hike in on foot to collect them! I want to give the bolt to Parks - the bridge might need it :-)</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-59904357012700961412016-08-11T16:08:00.000-07:002016-08-11T16:15:02.203-07:00Lord Hill~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The morning started off cool with some fog. As I loaded Farah, I thought about going back for a jacket, but with 80+ forecast, I just couldn't imagine I'd need it. The spotty fog continued through most of our drive to Snohomish. Traffic was light, it didn't take as long as I expected to arrive at the <a href="http://snohomishcountywa.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/Lord-Hill-Regional-Park-35" target="_blank">Lord Hill</a> parking area. I was surprised to be the only one there - just cool enough that I would have used that jacket - at least until about 5-minutes later when the sun burned through!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YyVsXX_6FMw/V6z1RbKM4gI/AAAAAAAATMM/gCZzdwyd8-Ype80bO_MWsUUf5xhppcamACLcB/s1600/IMG_6114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YyVsXX_6FMw/V6z1RbKM4gI/AAAAAAAATMM/gCZzdwyd8-Ype80bO_MWsUUf5xhppcamACLcB/s400/IMG_6114.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the main trail~</td></tr>
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Within just a short time - two more trailers came in, along with our friends; Scott, Karen & Jeannie. Farah's attention was diverted by the sound of sheep baaing from the neighboring farm. :-) It wasn't long before we were all out on the trails. It was so much cooler in the dappled shade of the forest. Farah was totally relaxed & happy to be out with her friends.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i1TyK-9Qx6s/V6z8HAC1TLI/AAAAAAAATMk/M_q-JoSBIB0cG5mSXXWP2wO7chvG5IyJACLcB/s1600/IMG_6112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i1TyK-9Qx6s/V6z8HAC1TLI/AAAAAAAATMk/M_q-JoSBIB0cG5mSXXWP2wO7chvG5IyJACLcB/s400/IMG_6112.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the trail~</td></tr>
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I was somewhat unjust - when I wrote that Farah chomps the bit & is unhappy going on slow rides. Not true. She's done many, many rides with other horses where she's acted like a lady. Sometimes, I think she makes her own assessment of how competitive the other horses are. As long as her dominance isn't in question - she can be just fine. It's only if another horse wants to go fast past her - that she lets me know that's not what <i>she</i> thinks should happen. Or, if we're behind a horse walking slowly for a long period of time. We're working on that! Of course after riding Khari for years - who didn't mind in the slightest being last - it's been my challenge to keep Farah's <i>forward</i> without the ornery. Today - she was great! Not bothered by letting Sherman or Rico lead. Dash is such a nice mare, the two of them seem to have an understanding.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZDlCzaTgxw/V6z1sI8noyI/AAAAAAAATMc/btqBiCFQQ4A0J0CqfYY9mupNR-6KgeU5QCEw/s1600/IMG_6116.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sZDlCzaTgxw/V6z1sI8noyI/AAAAAAAATMc/btqBiCFQQ4A0J0CqfYY9mupNR-6KgeU5QCEw/s400/IMG_6116.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karen & Sherman, Jeannie & Dash, Scott & Rico</td></tr>
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As were were coming back - a hiker told us that a truck hauling a large trailer - had broken down half-way up the Big hill! Back at the trail-head, there were horses everywhere! The trailer had been unloaded & there were probably fifteen horses tied to the hitching rails. Our impression - was that this was a group ride that included Veterans. I was standing at Scott's trailer when a lady with the group headed toward Farah, taking photos. I asked her not to approach & was rebuffed by her comment; "If you're going to ride a sliver bay - you might as well get used to it!" She also commented that she had fifteen horses! I replied that I only had one & her color was chocolate. :-) I Googled <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=silver+bay+horse+color&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjcn43atrrOAhUT32MKHd20BfAQsAQIHQ&biw=1920&bih=916" target="_blank">silver bay</a> - if you follow the link - you'll see a lot of beautiful horses of every shade! Lots of reading on the <a href="http://colorgenetics.info/" target="_blank">genetics of color</a>, none quite like Farah.<br />
<br />
Driving down the hill on our way out - we passed the truck. As we'd been told, blocking the uphill lane, mid-point in the climb. With an unobstructed view - we could easily get by. At the bottom of the hill, another rig was blocking the road, waiting for a gate to be opened. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-whLjHkCreo0/V6z1lJIUSoI/AAAAAAAATMc/CI4RluifMxAPMi922sEgXojwmuM-4Z5vgCEw/s1600/20160811_124742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-whLjHkCreo0/V6z1lJIUSoI/AAAAAAAATMc/CI4RluifMxAPMi922sEgXojwmuM-4Z5vgCEw/s400/20160811_124742.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting~</td></tr>
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A short delay & we were on our way - really a fun ride!</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-35208308953405238912016-08-09T15:10:00.001-07:002016-08-09T15:26:59.775-07:00Special Moment~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah uncertain~</td></tr>
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This morning I was looking forward to another visit at Karen & Scott's. It was again cool & misty - more like late September rather than early August! Farah is in the middle of a hard cycle. I unloaded her - totally distracted - not listening & yanking me around in her haste to visit her friends! As I expressed my displeasure to Scott - his reply was; "Good!" "Very Good!" I have to admit I just stood there baffled until he said; "Now she will learn that no matter how distracted, the same rules will always apply."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3hlzDQThUAk/V6pPfN1swmI/AAAAAAAATL0/QjXHXTtkKcowlRLtiiCr41CLkREHTv4GQCLcB/s1600/20160809_101334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3hlzDQThUAk/V6pPfN1swmI/AAAAAAAATL0/QjXHXTtkKcowlRLtiiCr41CLkREHTv4GQCLcB/s400/20160809_101334.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calm & paying attention!</td></tr>
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Once in the arena, she started what has been her usual "routine" of trotting like a crazy horse with kicks thrown in - but - the Big change was how quickly she stopped! Within just a few minutes, she was reading Scott's body language & was walking around him - changing direction with very little fuss! Instead of the hours that Scott had spent with her last week, this time it only took a few minutes to see her relax & pay attention. A horse that was <i>responding</i> to cues - rather than <i>reacting</i> to what was going on around her.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kebIJZzIPqo/V6pQjWfil1I/AAAAAAAATL4/tRnmStVKWlQ-7Oy5r6mvDiVnOfn5Iw4ggCLcB/s1600/20160809_101341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kebIJZzIPqo/V6pQjWfil1I/AAAAAAAATL4/tRnmStVKWlQ-7Oy5r6mvDiVnOfn5Iw4ggCLcB/s400/20160809_101341.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A good girl!</td></tr>
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Once Farah had settled, Scott asked me to take over. I couldn't believe how much easier it was to pay attention to what I was doing - as well as Farah's position - at the walk - rather than her flying trot! With coaching, we did some nice, quite changes of direction. I asked her to move to the trot & it was a nice medium trot - with her attention on me. Scott asked me to drop the stick & drop my energy level to nothing. The instant I did - Farah stopped, then turned & faced me! It was quite a moment for me - to have that feeling of<i> calm</i> control! :-) <br />
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Later, Karen rode Sherman, as I rode Farah. We took turns passing each other - first in the arena & then out & around the pastures. Calm! Farah was perfectly calm! No pinned ears, no chomping on the bit because Sherman was in front & again - paying attention to me.<br />
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I feel like we're making such positive forward progress in reducing the stress <i>cycle</i> that I've been trying unsuccessfully - to overcome for ages now. For Farah to finally understand that being with other horses does not necessarily make it a horse race is huge! Next, we'll be going on a calm trail ride! :-)<br />
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I am <i>So</i> appreciative of the mentoring both Farah & I have received from these two! </div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-1509756559034461702016-08-08T18:58:00.000-07:002016-08-08T19:01:30.615-07:00Perfect August Day~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
It was raining when we left home. I've yet to write the post about my trails from home... I needed saddle time - badly. We did check out Lime Kiln yesterday, the parking lot, even late in the day was full enough that I couldn't have parked my small trailer. Victoria it was~<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3b0ntDqAxrY/V6kwgHMEm-I/AAAAAAAATKo/79I3nll5ak4E5-abX_dumQHbEcMycllnACLcB/s1600/IMG_6090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3b0ntDqAxrY/V6kwgHMEm-I/AAAAAAAATKo/79I3nll5ak4E5-abX_dumQHbEcMycllnACLcB/s400/IMG_6090.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Views~</td></tr>
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As we headed northwest from the trailer parking - I decided to take the road that drops down to English Grade, just to <i>see</i> if anything had changed. Boy had it! A new clear cut, trees still on the ground - had opened up some truly incredible views. It seemed as though the breeze was coming right off the water!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2SrXBPMdcF8/V6kwfuHA3PI/AAAAAAAATK0/WItFzYl44a4X0DfffJMiEfLyRUMKDUqWACEw/s1600/IMG_6091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2SrXBPMdcF8/V6kwfuHA3PI/AAAAAAAATK0/WItFzYl44a4X0DfffJMiEfLyRUMKDUqWACEw/s400/IMG_6091.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mt. Erie</td></tr>
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I believe we were looking across to Mt. Erie, just a stunning early afternoon! Farah was feeling good, we hadn't been out on the trails for about a week, a long time for us!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ViN5JAqJVdc/V6kwpWXQ2yI/AAAAAAAATLE/1IRabUGOeVMEJT0dy8HjSC8fpP6RoHB5wCEw/s1600/IMG_6094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ViN5JAqJVdc/V6kwpWXQ2yI/AAAAAAAATLE/1IRabUGOeVMEJT0dy8HjSC8fpP6RoHB5wCEw/s400/IMG_6094.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blackberry Blooms~</td></tr>
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Some of the blackberry are ripe, but many more need a few more days of heat. Still blooming - this year we're going to have a bumper crop!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_FOlyNB27fc/V6kxESLNGeI/AAAAAAAATLQ/kNnJdjYgbMY4zphiKjnR_FflWs-WeQOqACEw/s1600/IMG_6097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_FOlyNB27fc/V6kxESLNGeI/AAAAAAAATLQ/kNnJdjYgbMY4zphiKjnR_FflWs-WeQOqACEw/s400/IMG_6097.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up Fast Trail!</td></tr>
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Linda had mentioned that she'd taken the tractor up & mowed the trail! Wow! Huge improvement & I'll have to buy her lunch :-)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_ZSJobOA7Q/V6kw7tdr_bI/AAAAAAAATLE/LIiLFjnF9-0w73E5LZrUw8aw-3PbjKrNgCEw/s1600/IMG_6098.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_ZSJobOA7Q/V6kw7tdr_bI/AAAAAAAATLE/LIiLFjnF9-0w73E5LZrUw8aw-3PbjKrNgCEw/s400/IMG_6098.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cascades - under clouds</td></tr>
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The day went from warm sunshine to cool as the clouds moved over. No peaks to be seen today! As were were galloping up - we passed a couple on bikes. By the time we reached the Monument, they came in right after us. We introduced ourselves & all agreed that our area, so loved for so long is feeling the pressure of the increasing population. Michael & Val also want to help with trail-clearing so I of course got their email address!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RnGfY4KZ9m4/V6kxdIcmZRI/AAAAAAAATLQ/GrFpllS9GdYCnU8NTlAJIg7j5ZRmeSrxQCEw/s1600/IMG_6100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RnGfY4KZ9m4/V6kxdIcmZRI/AAAAAAAATLQ/GrFpllS9GdYCnU8NTlAJIg7j5ZRmeSrxQCEw/s400/IMG_6100.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch over~</td></tr>
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Farah grazed & had her carrots before we continued on. We didn't go down to the bottom of the hill, but instead did our gallop on the short upper section. My girl was So good! She burst into full speed in a stride, then gained momentum until right before the crest, when she dropped it down a notch without my having to ask! New shoes seem to be working fine!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WM3R_FtKZmM/V6kxxFQnOaI/AAAAAAAATLY/unn8HjcDORwEPDvOL8eUK7aRwQJHCqS4wCEw/s1600/IMG_6105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WM3R_FtKZmM/V6kxxFQnOaI/AAAAAAAATLY/unn8HjcDORwEPDvOL8eUK7aRwQJHCqS4wCEw/s400/IMG_6105.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tree's down~</td></tr>
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We were on the final leg back, when we came up on this blow-down, just at the edge of the clear-cut. We turned back & took the trail through the big trees.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BRamTzZNTz0/V6kx5sxNiPI/AAAAAAAATLY/4jih18piHGIoTwwmR_q0qHrxUdweWyy0QCEw/s1600/IMG_6109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BRamTzZNTz0/V6kx5sxNiPI/AAAAAAAATLY/4jih18piHGIoTwwmR_q0qHrxUdweWyy0QCEw/s400/IMG_6109.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the big trees~</td></tr>
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Every time I ride through this amazing section of trees, I'm thankful for the experience. Our pace over the loop was faster than it has been on the warmer days - we both appreciated the cooler temperature. It was 71 as we went through Arlington on our way home. About as perfect as an August day can be!<br />
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HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-24035146705978420652016-08-07T20:00:00.000-07:002019-12-28T20:52:11.537-08:00The Destruction of Development~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Last night - just at midnight - we woke to the sound of the Coyote's howling. Loud & mournful - I knew - without knowing - they were voicing their shock & sorrow at the loss of their habitat. With those howls fresh in our minds, we decided to hike up late this afternoon. Only a few feet in - the trail was gone. We were confronted with a scene - surreal in it's stark contrast to what once was... Soon, there will be 600 residential homes here, residents complaining when the coyotes take their pets & deer eat their flowers.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where my entry trail was~</td></tr>
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Utter destruction in every direction. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trees cut & stacked ~</td></tr>
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It was like walking through a place so strange - somewhere I'd never been, rather than a place that I've known as well as anyone for over twenty-five years.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butch - where my trail came out on the intersection~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To the south - a line of heavy equipment - ten in all. Hundreds of trees down & stacked.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eaaBWTwO6mA/V7DKQmgS0fI/AAAAAAAATPs/WVR7wQqa4uYztWf4EFv63XhmN5NoOGZkgCLcB/s1600/IMG_6029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eaaBWTwO6mA/V7DKQmgS0fI/AAAAAAAATPs/WVR7wQqa4uYztWf4EFv63XhmN5NoOGZkgCLcB/s400/IMG_6029.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lined up & ready to go~</td></tr>
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This <i>trail</i> now a graded roadway - went to the first section of the development - where the tree was across earlier this year. <a href="http://hogehomestead.blogspot.com/2015/12/more-changes.html" target="_blank">Post~</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VCrWzpLw-FQ/V7DL4ntfRbI/AAAAAAAATQo/eLqVzYk0ay4Z0o6vl7kZcvxbvVkwAhQgQCEw/s1600/IMG_6072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VCrWzpLw-FQ/V7DL4ntfRbI/AAAAAAAATQo/eLqVzYk0ay4Z0o6vl7kZcvxbvVkwAhQgQCEw/s400/IMG_6072.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The gate now~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The development is moving from south to north along the east side of the power lines.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9LZMWpX0RHE/V7DKEGopcGI/AAAAAAAATPo/NP_LNv8EfccXTWJJn2Q5T-10UQRoxNGyQCLcB/s1600/IMG_6033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9LZMWpX0RHE/V7DKEGopcGI/AAAAAAAATPo/NP_LNv8EfccXTWJJn2Q5T-10UQRoxNGyQCLcB/s400/IMG_6033.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toward the power lines, west~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Above was my main access to the outflow of the wetland & on up to Cottonwood Cathedral.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A8BHWNSCxqc/V7DKeZFCT8I/AAAAAAAATPw/m15we4KM6Kgldso2m_DTFE955TqpO5YzACLcB/s1600/IMG_6036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A8BHWNSCxqc/V7DKeZFCT8I/AAAAAAAATPw/m15we4KM6Kgldso2m_DTFE955TqpO5YzACLcB/s400/IMG_6036.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My trail is between the trees ahead~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We walked all the way to the end of the grading - the trail is still there at the bottom of the wetland, but I'm sure not for long.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SB2Lk6A0gfY/V7DKzo_RJXI/AAAAAAAATP0/Ou5d7A2JDCMYhJYR8Iv1S6fhgaqnmPM6ACLcB/s1600/IMG_6041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SB2Lk6A0gfY/V7DKzo_RJXI/AAAAAAAATP0/Ou5d7A2JDCMYhJYR8Iv1S6fhgaqnmPM6ACLcB/s400/IMG_6041.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right past the edge~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A stake marks the clear-cut boundary - for now. Trees felled here too, as close to the wetland as they could possibly get. Several had fallen over the boundary line. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnN0g0uXxqM/V7DK2LcSqGI/AAAAAAAATP4/Fbhq34kmSYYlSY4zpaVNQ2rPeq04-iXMACLcB/s1600/IMG_6044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnN0g0uXxqM/V7DK2LcSqGI/AAAAAAAATP4/Fbhq34kmSYYlSY4zpaVNQ2rPeq04-iXMACLcB/s400/IMG_6044.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back the way we'd come~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Back at the intersection, we walked north.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BWivouSdfOk/V7ESjetgNHI/AAAAAAAATRM/wTT3QVjEYUMQeHX1QPInMkO0C3kjErqxACLcB/s1600/IMG_6031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BWivouSdfOk/V7ESjetgNHI/AAAAAAAATRM/wTT3QVjEYUMQeHX1QPInMkO0C3kjErqxACLcB/s400/IMG_6031.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butch walking north~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Parallel with what's left of the woods, where houses will be built. Actually toward our street.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FSopT1Sb1iE/V7DLD5Yb5EI/AAAAAAAATP8/t9IRRVChqEI4DFuKcmrxWItfwHm9VUrPgCLcB/s1600/IMG_6046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FSopT1Sb1iE/V7DLD5Yb5EI/AAAAAAAATP8/t9IRRVChqEI4DFuKcmrxWItfwHm9VUrPgCLcB/s400/IMG_6046.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking east from the road Butch is walking above~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was surprised to see the drainage basin dry & marked for houses!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b4g4C2UmTaQ/V7DLPdRAZTI/AAAAAAAATQA/o3CoEFrB1hUx55_F2TSSbPAVywgFLNNWQCLcB/s1600/IMG_6051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b4g4C2UmTaQ/V7DLPdRAZTI/AAAAAAAATQA/o3CoEFrB1hUx55_F2TSSbPAVywgFLNNWQCLcB/s400/IMG_6051.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What was a drainage basin~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Below, full of water~<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S31bz6XaS7E/V7EVzQ7G9DI/AAAAAAAATRY/iy86T8OIswUtvLa58CSO66kGphN7yVPZQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S31bz6XaS7E/V7EVzQ7G9DI/AAAAAAAATRY/iy86T8OIswUtvLa58CSO66kGphN7yVPZQCLcB/s400/IMG_3092.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">12/09/15</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Evidently, they no longer need water retention. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pO_zGF4yFZ4/V7DLcuNbWyI/AAAAAAAATQE/PdyUx0bkks4VLcMjgCC0TY2IXYMVZqTcgCLcB/s1600/IMG_6053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pO_zGF4yFZ4/V7DLcuNbWyI/AAAAAAAATQE/PdyUx0bkks4VLcMjgCC0TY2IXYMVZqTcgCLcB/s400/IMG_6053.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cutting through toward 116th~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another surprise, to see that a dozer had gone through from the end of the graded road toward the top of our street. I've not been able to ride up our road for years - due to the<i> adjoining landowner</i> with the pit. Originally we were told the development would not come through here - but now - who knows?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-3_B7FZKAg/V7DLkrWeeUI/AAAAAAAATQI/XrbQFVJJAtU4I3YskpueN3Njv4iNVwqhQCLcB/s1600/IMG_6062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-3_B7FZKAg/V7DLkrWeeUI/AAAAAAAATQI/XrbQFVJJAtU4I3YskpueN3Njv4iNVwqhQCLcB/s400/IMG_6062.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking south, back the way we'd come~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As we headed back to the way we'd come in, to say that my mood was subdued, would be an understatement. I couldn't help but notice the <i>little</i> things. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0YT-YQs-XDQ/V7DMau0KIAI/AAAAAAAATQc/iU2Y1BbleYEmbFsUKMdT5zZbSHzSbhDDgCLcB/s1600/IMG_6084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0YT-YQs-XDQ/V7DMau0KIAI/AAAAAAAATQc/iU2Y1BbleYEmbFsUKMdT5zZbSHzSbhDDgCLcB/s400/IMG_6084.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butts in the dirt...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Butch had to ask me where we'd come through. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hZZbvS540xo/V7DMsg-2QFI/AAAAAAAATQg/kd1XFCRv9oEU8O4gvKHPF4tl7WLicL9hACLcB/s1600/IMG_6086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hZZbvS540xo/V7DMsg-2QFI/AAAAAAAATQg/kd1XFCRv9oEU8O4gvKHPF4tl7WLicL9hACLcB/s400/IMG_6086.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cedar log marks the way~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To think of all the land that isn't wooded, doesn't have the headwaters of three different streams, doesn't have fresh water wetlands & doesn't have wildlife... Somewhere else besides here? This last remnant of the forested land that was our buffer from the ever-spreading Marysville. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-06hbTED3Lz4/V7EOTaOXBGI/AAAAAAAATRE/n_0s7DNGm50A-cvhjiYp16NbAMO98D4PQCEw/s1600/East%2Bfrom%2BPowerlines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-06hbTED3Lz4/V7EOTaOXBGI/AAAAAAAATRE/n_0s7DNGm50A-cvhjiYp16NbAMO98D4PQCEw/s400/East%2Bfrom%2BPowerlines.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The land - looking from west to east~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Since this image is old, it only shows the first of the development. Now, everything along the west edge of the large wetland is gone. It's probably not worth the effort to try to get through - but I may try. I know that the Cathedral will go down soon - there's the <i>trail</i> soon to be road that they will cut right through it.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9RTAHy-24xQ/V7EiojNWbeI/AAAAAAAATRw/tePcHrWatx8lPduuOD9XyafT7ZsdFggUQCLcB/s1600/Marysville%2BEast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9RTAHy-24xQ/V7EiojNWbeI/AAAAAAAATRw/tePcHrWatx8lPduuOD9XyafT7ZsdFggUQCLcB/s400/Marysville%2BEast.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marysville development moves east~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Combine this mess with the new development just five-miles up Burn Road,
then the 300 houses that are planned for the old Thoroughbred farm near
the Granite Falls High School. Our narrow <i>country</i> roads were
never built for the kind of traffic that we already have, not to mention
the cars that all these developments will add. Our rural lifestyle has lasted a long while - just not long enough... Snohomish County has sold out our rural - five acre status - for rural cluster development dollars...</div>
</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-79948955518653559402016-08-04T15:39:00.002-07:002022-10-05T16:02:12.120-07:00Summer Camp!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rP1ie7kzxC0/V6O1TgwZstI/AAAAAAAATJQ/08kmujWM7QMdhk8O4l2x40wKW2hl2Z-2wCLcB/s1600/20160803_094140.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rP1ie7kzxC0/V6O1TgwZstI/AAAAAAAATJQ/08kmujWM7QMdhk8O4l2x40wKW2hl2Z-2wCLcB/s400/20160803_094140.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah & the view~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Tuesday found Farah & I on the road to Snohomish. We'd been visiting with Scott & Karen about once a week to do some arena riding. Scott acts as our coach & I really enjoy the weekly social time, as does Farah. This week, when I arrived & Scott asked me my plans for the week, I thought he was being conversational, but I was wrong :-) Instead - he asked if I would consider leaving Farah at the farm for a few days so that he could spend some time with her? What a generous offer!<br />
<br />
Scott's horsemanship skills are far advanced from my own. He's spent several weeks of intense study with <a href="http://www.reisranch.com/" target="_blank">Dennis Reis</a> & is a graduate of his <a href="http://www.reisranch.com/clinics/" target="_blank">Universal Horsemanship</a> program. Scott judges <a href="http://www.coltstartingchallengeusa.com/" target="_blank">Colt Starting Challenges</a> & as such, he's had the advantage of watching some of the best trainers at work. I've been impressed with the level of training both Scott's senior horse & his young mare demonstrate. Leaving Farah there would save me hauling the trailer back & forth - I was happy to accept!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wWQoHZalgWs/V6O5eqHHIEI/AAAAAAAATJc/gW7QQ7z_vPgVRqVQTAoV0wKy8jKfiMlngCLcB/s1600/20160803_123503.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wWQoHZalgWs/V6O5eqHHIEI/AAAAAAAATJc/gW7QQ7z_vPgVRqVQTAoV0wKy8jKfiMlngCLcB/s400/20160803_123503.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scott with Farah~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Our weekly visits have given Farah the opportunity to interact with other horses on a social level - something she doesn't have at home. From when I left her in a stall Tue. afternoon, to when I arrived on Wed. - Scott & Karen had turned her out - then watched as the interaction with the other horses ensued - across a fence! :-) Gem, Scott's young mare - herd boss & Farah - who thinks she's the boss of <i>everything</i> - had a <i>go</i> at each other. It didn't last long & by the time the horses were stalled for the evening - I got a text from Karen saying all was quiet & well in the barn. I felt like a first time Mom sending my youngest off to camp!<br />
<br />
Wednesday morning when I arrived, Farah was grazing & Scott was watching. Soon - she was haltered & all Scott's work with her was done in-hand. He found out in short order, that she'd had some <a href="http://www.parelli.com/pat-parelli.html" target="_blank">Parnelli </a>type work somewhere in her first years. She knew some <i>tricks</i> - he recognized from that particular program. She has been more reactive for a while now - Scott's goal was to remove the <i>re-activeness</i> & replace it with calm <i>response</i>. It was amazing how just small movements of his body were enough to set Farah off. She would not just <i>walk</i> on the lounge line & it took a while for Scott to desensitize her to the stick.<br />
<br />
I too - needed a lot of coaching on my lack of technique with the lounge line. I have a habit of backing up. When Rico took over as my coach - he let me know instantly he would take advantage of that <i>hole</i> in my training! :-) I also rode Rico - Wow! What fun! He's big & he's so well trained! He soon <i>adjusted</i> himself to me & we did a very nice trot!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V_Uy3OHvxYM/V6O-97rsGWI/AAAAAAAATJs/9m6ddVd0VPAe40wT30djxzTcYDpG3lC_wCLcB/s1600/20160803_112332.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V_Uy3OHvxYM/V6O-97rsGWI/AAAAAAAATJs/9m6ddVd0VPAe40wT30djxzTcYDpG3lC_wCLcB/s400/20160803_112332.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Justin & Farah</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We had a short break - while Justin shod Farah. Yes, we'd worn them out in just over five weeks :-) After that, a load of hay was coming in & going by conveyor to the overhead hay loft! Scott kept Farah with him as all the commotion was going on - using it as a training tool. Her demeanor had changed just in the 24-hours she'd been here. She was walking on the lounge line! Changing direction perfectly at just a slight cue. Both Scott & Karen were impressed with her smarts & willingness to learn. <br />
<br />
Today, Scott told me he had worked both Farah & Rico at liberty in the arena! I was open mouthed! Their horses are not shod, just booted for trail. Farah on the other hand - had four new steel shoes! Scott said that she actually followed Rico's lead & only once did Rico have to remind her to stay back! :-) We rode as a group today with Arlene on Rico, Scott & Gem & Karen on Sherman - Farah's least favorite. :-) Sherman did try to make friendly advances & finally Farah accepted them without pinned ears! She was as low-key as I've ever ridden her. Karen even loped Sherman past as we were walking the perimeter & Farah did not react!<br />
<br />
I'd scheduled a ride for tomorrow, so brought her home today - it's been quiet without her! Not since Khari left for Saudi Arabia in June of 2012, <a href="http://hogehomestead.blogspot.com/2012/06/kharis-leave-taking.html" target="_blank">Post</a>~ has the Homestead been without a horse! Now, my ride has been cancelled - so we may go up tomorrow - to see if anything is left of our trails~</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-84499918053956989272016-07-30T19:00:00.000-07:002016-08-02T19:25:25.564-07:00Rainbow Falls - Day Two~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Saturday dawned overcast & cool. The rarity of spending time in an old growth forest wasn't lost on us... So sad to know that this remnant is the last remaining, of the once vast expansive forests that covered this part of the state. Of course - there are only remnants left <i>everywhere</i> - small islands of trees that have lived longer than any of us ever will. Hanging on - even as the environment around them has been changed forever by rampant logging.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eeV1hBtGmss/V6FLniuqpZI/AAAAAAAATIM/uI4iO3lIR6MX3tA-cdf9fs90ZzUFzBYvACEw/s1600/IMG_5916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eeV1hBtGmss/V6FLniuqpZI/AAAAAAAATIM/uI4iO3lIR6MX3tA-cdf9fs90ZzUFzBYvACEw/s400/IMG_5916.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.lewiscountytrails.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2&Itemid=2" target="_blank">Willapa Hills Trail</a></td></tr>
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We did some hiking & some exploring. I was surprised to find that there are two horse camping spots here. When I asked about trails, I was told that the trail above was accessible just across the road from the park. Since it's a lineal trail - it wasn't what I would have hoped to find - but definitely worth bringing Farah back sometime to ride it!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pNwpbopW3xQ/V6FOERVTpVI/AAAAAAAATIU/mktqJs-Y5GUc3br9tbXJmvQ2Tw25mEnHwCLcB/s1600/IMG_5941.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pNwpbopW3xQ/V6FOERVTpVI/AAAAAAAATIU/mktqJs-Y5GUc3br9tbXJmvQ2Tw25mEnHwCLcB/s400/IMG_5941.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rainbow Falls~</td></tr>
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Since we hadn't <i>found</i> the actual <i>falls </i>yesterday - today - that was the goal. We found the right trail - there weren't that many & soon the sound of the water guided us the rest of the way. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yPeRwTilGuU/V6FO3V8fHqI/AAAAAAAATIY/okN0Rh3jY_AXJewnwBG2y60_WsAmYv96ACLcB/s1600/IMG_5947.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yPeRwTilGuU/V6FO3V8fHqI/AAAAAAAATIY/okN0Rh3jY_AXJewnwBG2y60_WsAmYv96ACLcB/s400/IMG_5947.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butch, Nika & Rascal</td></tr>
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It wasn't the type of waterfall that I would have expected, but it was certainly beautiful in it's own way. I'm sure it's much more impressive when the river is higher in the fall or spring. We hiked all the trails we could find. The park felt small to me - at the edges the light from the clear cuts bled through the dappled shade of the old growth.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TesTaY4SdBM/V6FQyjcfTPI/AAAAAAAATIw/5isR2r77sGQFFYBeyPnlWAYMD0QiQH_ygCLcB/s1600/IMG_5920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TesTaY4SdBM/V6FQyjcfTPI/AAAAAAAATIw/5isR2r77sGQFFYBeyPnlWAYMD0QiQH_ygCLcB/s400/IMG_5920.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Under-story~</td></tr>
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The native plants that comprised the ground-covers were truly amazing! I've never been in a place so heavily used & yet with such diversity of plants! Salomon Seal, Trillium, Vanilla Leaf, Huckleberry, just about every plant in my Native Plant books! Seeing how they compliment each other in the <i>wild</i> was so beautiful.</div>
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We toured the small fuchsia garden, then spent some time relaxing in the large open space in the middle of the campground. Skyla & Josie showed Papa & I how very fast they can run! Skyla - fast as a Cheetah - Josie - fast as the Wind! In another year or two they'll be neck & neck! Rumor has it that their Daddy has to hustle to catch them! :-)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HwBPHl5EOSg/V6FQA6CQcJI/AAAAAAAATIo/BYPH3nN2heg8n7wsJlUp0VOaZzC2QB0FwCLcB/s1600/IMG_5953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HwBPHl5EOSg/V6FQA6CQcJI/AAAAAAAATIo/BYPH3nN2heg8n7wsJlUp0VOaZzC2QB0FwCLcB/s400/IMG_5953.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two little beauties~</td></tr>
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With no internet service - people at the park were playing ball - kicking back & enjoying each others company - it almost seemed <i>strange</i> to not see everyone looking down at their smartphones!<br />
<br />
Another perfect evening - cooler - so the fire felt good! <a href="http://wonderopolis.org/wonder/why-are-they-called-s-mores" target="_blank">Somemores </a>with Big marshmallows hit the sweet spot! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dd6AE9qAOt4/V6FTa1xekRI/AAAAAAAATI8/kdwqWN1ta1QO2MGNp63en932nVG5mDzFQCLcB/s1600/IMG_5983.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dd6AE9qAOt4/V6FTa1xekRI/AAAAAAAATI8/kdwqWN1ta1QO2MGNp63en932nVG5mDzFQCLcB/s400/IMG_5983.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Us~</td></tr>
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The weekend was over way to fast - it was hard to say good-bye for now... Ben came home with us - he had a job
interview on Monday.</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-49220518962699849502016-07-29T20:00:00.000-07:002016-08-02T18:36:09.460-07:00Rainbow Falls - Day One~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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With the camper loaded - when Butch came home Thursday afternoon - we were soon on the road & heading south. We'd planned to meet our youngest daughter & her family for a Summer camping trip for months! Of course as time went on, it seemed that we'd need at least three of
this particular weekend to do all the things that we were either invited
to or could have scheduled to attend. When it comes to time with three
of our favorite Grand-kids though - there's no question as to where
we'll be!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9vSrMA57Rwo/V6E5ylnZXfI/AAAAAAAATG8/z852L3aqk1MibfgcFHwPkQD7ERTmDQnUQCEw/s1600/20160728_185451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9vSrMA57Rwo/V6E5ylnZXfI/AAAAAAAATG8/z852L3aqk1MibfgcFHwPkQD7ERTmDQnUQCEw/s400/20160728_185451.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I-405</td></tr>
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I'd somehow managed to think we were heading to a park in OR - we'd planned on stopping for dinner on our way. By the time we reached Chehalis - we were hungry! Shortly after we were back on the road, Grandson Ben called - checking on the status of his bike :-) Thankfully - when I told him we were leaving <a href="http://www.ci.chehalis.wa.us/" target="_blank">Chehalis</a> he said; "Great! You'll be here soon!" I said; "What?!" Whereupon I was informed that I had the wrong spot in mind & indeed we were only one exit past where we needed to turn to reach <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainbow_Falls_State_Park" target="_blank">Rainbow Falls State Park</a>. We pulled into the park & here was Ben & his Mom waiting for us with flashlights to guide us to our spot. It was pitch black - but I could see that we had <i>Huge</i> trees all around us! Stars sparkling in a black sky!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TnFle8d2dfk/V6E9LZPsbqI/AAAAAAAATHE/e_epWOsREeAJx519f6XEJJ49MOO4B781gCLcB/s1600/DSC_7333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TnFle8d2dfk/V6E9LZPsbqI/AAAAAAAATHE/e_epWOsREeAJx519f6XEJJ49MOO4B781gCLcB/s400/DSC_7333.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning~</td></tr>
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It was <i>So</i> quiet, just the sound of the wind in the truly amazing old growth trees! Friday morning, Butch was out ahead of me - I saw why when I went over to the kids camp across the way :-)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SBjeJkCOCj8/V6E-iwIIL2I/AAAAAAAATHQ/lBGdz5amark52EFuKcJBYLxsitKmADWZwCLcB/s1600/DSC_7328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SBjeJkCOCj8/V6E-iwIIL2I/AAAAAAAATHQ/lBGdz5amark52EFuKcJBYLxsitKmADWZwCLcB/s400/DSC_7328.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Josie & Papa~</td></tr>
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Soon, we were on the trail to find the river! Friday was a very warm day & cooling off sounded perfect! The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chehalis_River_(Washington)" target="_blank">Chehalis River</a> is truly amazing - it's destructive history of flooding is extensive. Photos at the Kiosk showed all the damage just within the campground - where a beautiful bridge was swept away.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TQdOr7pD8nU/V6E_SwToXFI/AAAAAAAATHU/oKJmSWIH2ZEW25e9DGMr6ptktb8Ymk31wCLcB/s1600/DSC_7359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TQdOr7pD8nU/V6E_SwToXFI/AAAAAAAATHU/oKJmSWIH2ZEW25e9DGMr6ptktb8Ymk31wCLcB/s400/DSC_7359.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skyla~</td></tr>
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This river was very different from others I've seen, with layers of bedrock under the water. The water level was summertime low & very warm.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VG_ZJOOaj1s/V6FBa_kZJ4I/AAAAAAAATHg/4QyvskY89xIu392jqQaYyQUqyRmox7srwCLcB/s1600/DSC_7375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VG_ZJOOaj1s/V6FBa_kZJ4I/AAAAAAAATHg/4QyvskY89xIu392jqQaYyQUqyRmox7srwCLcB/s400/DSC_7375.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandson Ben makes a splash!</td></tr>
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It was the perfect place to spend a warm Summer weekend! Rascal had been in the Sauk River, so walked along the edge & didn't mind getting his feet wet. Nika - wanted nothing to do with it! Finally, I put her in & with a lot of coaching from Butch she stood in the water :-) No way did she plan on going in any further! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ONiYvupqhcU/V6FDKgXOCaI/AAAAAAAATHs/ZaduP-GvKJQt9ZU029HTfba7s1jZAc-dgCLcB/s1600/DSC_7386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ONiYvupqhcU/V6FDKgXOCaI/AAAAAAAATHs/ZaduP-GvKJQt9ZU029HTfba7s1jZAc-dgCLcB/s400/DSC_7386.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nika in the water :-)</td></tr>
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We all had some good laughs at her expense :-) We watched as the sun moved lower in the sky & eventually the kids were ready to dry off & head back to camp. Dinner was yummy - as it always is when you're camping. After dinner we celebrated Josie's fourth birthday! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3epEl0LTcZE/V6FH4KigivI/AAAAAAAATH8/bNsaKS8H7okve0f-zPaH1e8wELcJAuWQgCLcB/s1600/IMG_5907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3epEl0LTcZE/V6FH4KigivI/AAAAAAAATH8/bNsaKS8H7okve0f-zPaH1e8wELcJAuWQgCLcB/s400/IMG_5907.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Ballerina Music box!</td></tr>
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The Chocolate cupcakes were a big hit! Sitting around the fire was the perfect end to a perfect day.</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-67700074111886478832016-07-26T19:18:00.002-07:002016-07-27T10:07:48.168-07:00One More Time~<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Since the rest of my week is busy - today was my last chance to get Farah out before next week. The temperatures were supposed to be cooler today - I was all over that! The morning was overcast & cool as predicted. I had the <i>idea</i> of <i>stretching </i>my mental photo of the southern trails at Victoria. </div>
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Only two trailers at the parking area. We left out the back - did a short trail - then as we were crossing the main trail - here came a buggy! The driver pulled up a way off - but I think a <a href="http://www.nfhr.com/catalog/index.php?aboutthebreed=1" target="_blank">Norwegian Fjord</a> was in the traces! The driver had a flag on a pole in the back - Farah had to do a double-take! Way too fun!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eTqc-JEAfac/V5gDIrMQwAI/AAAAAAAATFs/eS9QPP8kYEc1zDHIhcvwoiiriVeiTRPSACEw/s1600/IMG_5877.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eTqc-JEAfac/V5gDIrMQwAI/AAAAAAAATFs/eS9QPP8kYEc1zDHIhcvwoiiriVeiTRPSACEw/s400/IMG_5877.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Cedars, Vine Maples & Huckleberry</td></tr>
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I'd found such a handy way of getting back from the river when we last went that way the first of June. I told myself then - that I would remember it - for our next trek that direction.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1TdIXksltgU/V5gC72OWslI/AAAAAAAATFo/-HzhsA7HwL8W-wMj_8BZn_fiA2ocJWzRwCLcB/s1600/IMG_5880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1TdIXksltgU/V5gC72OWslI/AAAAAAAATFo/-HzhsA7HwL8W-wMj_8BZn_fiA2ocJWzRwCLcB/s400/IMG_5880.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can you tell what this is?</td></tr>
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We didn't loop the top of the mountain, instead I took the shortest route I knew, down the big hill, to head south. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MBYmcgnM2wk/V5gDLG3loKI/AAAAAAAATFw/qxk5PePitK4_RWzRYhd340BPjaXgd2YHwCLcB/s1600/IMG_5883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MBYmcgnM2wk/V5gDLG3loKI/AAAAAAAATFw/qxk5PePitK4_RWzRYhd340BPjaXgd2YHwCLcB/s400/IMG_5883.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.portblakely.com/port-blakely-tree-farms/about" target="_blank">Port Blakely</a> Sign</td></tr>
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Again, I thought this would be good way to stay in the shade & it worked out really well, except for the humidity, which was higher than yesterday & heavier in the lower forest tract. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g9lDsY4Nh9k/V5gDbAs9MbI/AAAAAAAATF4/Ni-4DZ8mra0GdmQ76X0KE6Gv-hvrKf5qgCLcB/s1600/IMG_5884.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g9lDsY4Nh9k/V5gDbAs9MbI/AAAAAAAATF4/Ni-4DZ8mra0GdmQ76X0KE6Gv-hvrKf5qgCLcB/s400/IMG_5884.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So cute~</td></tr>
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We ambled on & eventually came to this sign, which told me that we were not going the way I'd hoped. I'd found the other end of this same trail one day when I was looking for a trail back north & became <i>direction-ally</i> challenged. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JLsDGtSRGag/V5gDnMd1KkI/AAAAAAAATF8/hcqX6geU8lAhzj52nVkdbM0o6Fk4uYhVgCLcB/s1600/IMG_5892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JLsDGtSRGag/V5gDnMd1KkI/AAAAAAAATF8/hcqX6geU8lAhzj52nVkdbM0o6Fk4uYhVgCLcB/s400/IMG_5892.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah in the Creek~</td></tr>
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Once we came out on the road - I recognized where we were. It wasn't too much farther to the trail that goes to the creek. By now it was almost 2 p.m. & we'd not had our lunch break! To make matters worse, I'd forgotten Farah's carrots! She walked right into the creek & started her usual yawning. For a mare who used to be terrified of any water at all - she really enjoys standing in it now :-)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2rUAQlm45zE/V5gWA6pm0iI/AAAAAAAATGM/ENciCDyCOrYK7UZqPEY5DZaqXDURsEJdACLcB/s1600/IMG_5890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2rUAQlm45zE/V5gWA6pm0iI/AAAAAAAATGM/ENciCDyCOrYK7UZqPEY5DZaqXDURsEJdACLcB/s400/IMG_5890.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ripples on the water~</td></tr>
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I made a serious mistake though - I looked down to take this photo & in the next instant my<a href="http://www.webmd.com/brain/vertigo-symptoms-causes-treatment" target="_blank"> vertigo</a> hit! No reason for mine has ever been found - it's been a lifelong problem, so I can't even attribute it to aging - which it seems can be blamed for almost any health problem one might have! Not! Needless to say - we <i>left</i> the water fast! I walked for over a mile until I felt better enough to mount back up. Farah was unhappy about this & kept urging me forward with her nose in my back :-)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hquf0LbPzfY/V5gDR_n0w8I/AAAAAAAATF0/rjB1KUfsbQ40-NhoZPGpAhUnbCqAQBMrwCLcB/s1600/Route%2Bto%2Bthe%2BCreek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hquf0LbPzfY/V5gDR_n0w8I/AAAAAAAATF0/rjB1KUfsbQ40-NhoZPGpAhUnbCqAQBMrwCLcB/s400/Route%2Bto%2Bthe%2BCreek.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Today's route~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Just to give you an idea of all the trails through this area - the Google image below is from three different rides. I wonder how long it would take to overlay them all? Way back when, when we were younger & cleared even more trail than now... these trails were only a <i>part</i> of the two-day, fifty or 100- mile <a href="http://www.natrc.org/" target="_blank">Competitive Trail</a> rides.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NlrRv9E_Yzo/V5gXOYApR-I/AAAAAAAATGU/ytglt4N2RIYkjcW4yiUfUaocEUC99uCvQCEw/s1600/Southern%2BTrails.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NlrRv9E_Yzo/V5gXOYApR-I/AAAAAAAATGU/ytglt4N2RIYkjcW4yiUfUaocEUC99uCvQCEw/s400/Southern%2BTrails.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Southern trail tracks~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Back at the parking, I was disgusted to find a Gatorade bottle, trash & my least favorite - cigarette butts tossed everywhere. There was also a sheet of paper with a Google earth image & directions as to how to get here - all laying where the trailer next to me had been parked. That sheet also showed where those riders lived, which wasn't that far? What would they have said if I'd taken all the trash they'd left back to them? Fun to contemplate - but I get in enough trouble without making more. I hope if I do see them again - they'll remember to Leave No Trace!</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-87318455732166969552016-07-25T18:44:00.004-07:002016-07-27T10:18:58.660-07:00Summerin'<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We
worked at home most of the weekend - on just one small section of our
woods - under the huge Black Cottonwoods. Butch chainsawed all the big
limbs, I did the smaller stuff & we both hauled it down to the burn
pile. Since I hadn't ridden - today was the day! The heat is finally On... Never my favorite time of year to ride - nonetheless - I got all the watering done early & drove north. I was surprised to see several trailers at the parking area & cars parked along side the road.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cFsAHsm7hy4/V5ax2WpAIlI/AAAAAAAATEU/bzz0WPmzTaIrOk71uBgfj7fbug2oJPESACLcB/s1600/IMG_5839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cFsAHsm7hy4/V5ax2WpAIlI/AAAAAAAATEU/bzz0WPmzTaIrOk71uBgfj7fbug2oJPESACLcB/s400/IMG_5839.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleared Trail~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We took the trail through the woods & found that someone had cleared the last 100 ft. or so that always gets overgrown. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-abijPGmrnTo/V5axzkB4XCI/AAAAAAAATE4/w67po_A9hLAq_uQmmiA4gBMKYQH1ygcDwCEw/s1600/IMG_5840.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-abijPGmrnTo/V5axzkB4XCI/AAAAAAAATE4/w67po_A9hLAq_uQmmiA4gBMKYQH1ygcDwCEw/s400/IMG_5840.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nwplants.com/business/catalog/ace_cir.html" target="_blank">Vine Maples</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I decided on our usual loop & planned to <i>find </i>all the shade I could. On these long days - the sun filtered through all the trees is so Beautiful! Coming up the road where Farah had thrown me <a href="http://hogehomestead.blogspot.com/2016/06/not-if-when.html" target="_blank">Post~ </a> - I noticed this stump off to the side. Dug into, chunks of bark scraped aside - no doubt about it - the bears were looking for grubs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mb4xdZWzhG0/V5ax_WqbTfI/AAAAAAAATE4/AE7lTdBMdBkNsIoX_B8fh14hR0YZTWSXQCEw/s1600/IMG_5844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mb4xdZWzhG0/V5ax_WqbTfI/AAAAAAAATE4/AE7lTdBMdBkNsIoX_B8fh14hR0YZTWSXQCEw/s400/IMG_5844.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stump~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I wasn't going to take Fast Trail - especially with a short sleeved shirt on, but I love the views. Fast Trail is no longer <i>fast</i> :-) Overgrown is a perfect description. The birds were eating the <a href="https://thenorthwestforager.com/2014/08/17/thimbleberry/" target="_blank">Thimbleberries</a>, but the blackberries aren't ripe yet. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uh2Pl0vE_2s/V5a5RGwzU9I/AAAAAAAATFY/Onq-Fmfhx1ERzOQGyJgz71lHERQJbrznACLcB/s1600/IMG_5845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uh2Pl0vE_2s/V5a5RGwzU9I/AAAAAAAATFY/Onq-Fmfhx1ERzOQGyJgz71lHERQJbrznACLcB/s400/IMG_5845.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On Fast Trail~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A nice breeze made the day bearable, but I could feel the temperature climbing. I did the short video below of a short section of the trail to the Monument. Carole - this is for you :-)</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Y7GeH7rPfUY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y7GeH7rPfUY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<br /></div>
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There was one young guy at the Monument, sitting in the shade. He
didn't look our way or want to be social - so we respected his privacy
& stayed away until he left. </div>
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</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hQgw2JEXN4s/V5a2W9aykmI/AAAAAAAATFE/au9LeoQMWxUDuuvFUyVflnOGLo3U1DzZACEw/s1600/IMG_5854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hQgw2JEXN4s/V5a2W9aykmI/AAAAAAAATFE/au9LeoQMWxUDuuvFUyVflnOGLo3U1DzZACEw/s400/IMG_5854.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the Islands to the Northwest</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Someone has mowed & everything looked great, except for a few small pieces of trash that I picked up as we left. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--hmXvK4cMUw/V5ayj0aB6oI/AAAAAAAATE4/edDi4JTs1QgooHG3BsMxR3ajsrniwBRhQCEw/s1600/IMG_5856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--hmXvK4cMUw/V5ayj0aB6oI/AAAAAAAATE4/edDi4JTs1QgooHG3BsMxR3ajsrniwBRhQCEw/s400/IMG_5856.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Olympics have been so stunning all weekend & today too.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0_LOH2y_w_o/V5ayrVdQvfI/AAAAAAAATE4/GPk1RzpI8wAEY9WjEW4g_vcONDmEHgqngCEw/s1600/IMG_5858.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0_LOH2y_w_o/V5ayrVdQvfI/AAAAAAAATE4/GPk1RzpI8wAEY9WjEW4g_vcONDmEHgqngCEw/s400/IMG_5858.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Southwest down the Sound~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The edges of the little hillside that hosts the monument - are now growing the wild Sweet Pea. They're so pretty when they're blooming - but depending on your preference - can be considered a weed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eSQ5qHZ9OBo/V5ay6dvUClI/AAAAAAAATE4/uvCk_GoEZ2414FoRZXMrtjdsm1PYg4rbgCEw/s1600/IMG_5859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eSQ5qHZ9OBo/V5ay6dvUClI/AAAAAAAATE4/uvCk_GoEZ2414FoRZXMrtjdsm1PYg4rbgCEw/s400/IMG_5859.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.eattheweeds.com/tuberous-sweetpea/" target="_blank">Sweet Pea</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The sky was such a deep rich blue, with the high white clouds, the wide open views of Summer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OISbA79Ycag/V5azBQwdlhI/AAAAAAAATE4/CSmrU0xs_6cW8oL5uXgaXsi9atrra_xfgCEw/s1600/IMG_5860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OISbA79Ycag/V5azBQwdlhI/AAAAAAAATE4/CSmrU0xs_6cW8oL5uXgaXsi9atrra_xfgCEw/s400/IMG_5860.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer Sky~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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When headed into the deep dark woods, a lady on a bike came at us so fast that I thought we were going to crash - but an evasive maneuver by Farah helped, along with my shout! She mentioned something about Farah being the color of the shade.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b2xRb06cy1I/V5azJ3XhnPI/AAAAAAAATE4/q0EH28jHXsAU5CCic1PdlriMr3nWe101ACEw/s1600/IMG_5868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b2xRb06cy1I/V5azJ3XhnPI/AAAAAAAATE4/q0EH28jHXsAU5CCic1PdlriMr3nWe101ACEw/s400/IMG_5868.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Far Peaks~</td></tr>
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These far peaks are so stunning, low clouds floating by. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QfUHzc-fJHA/V5a3XNFw1xI/AAAAAAAATFM/XaUV0OAsCv4KkqJlGTXJJSHJxEJY5PkpwCLcB/s1600/IMG_5869.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QfUHzc-fJHA/V5a3XNFw1xI/AAAAAAAATFM/XaUV0OAsCv4KkqJlGTXJJSHJxEJY5PkpwCLcB/s400/IMG_5869.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whitehorse & Three Fingers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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As we started down, I dismounted, took off my helmet & walked a mile or so. Farah was so good today - the Magnesium supplement we started her on over a year ago, along with the Vitamin B supplement that Cassandra recommended - seems to be doing the trick. Spooking at bicycles was not a good thing!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JmXLhljaJqs/V5azW9G3pkI/AAAAAAAATE8/3_TX5lG-VAotpPmZcrvu-BMHxMBRAKMYwCEw/s1600/IMG_5876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JmXLhljaJqs/V5azW9G3pkI/AAAAAAAATE8/3_TX5lG-VAotpPmZcrvu-BMHxMBRAKMYwCEw/s400/IMG_5876.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Above it all~ Mt. Rainier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Besides an unexpected leap over a muddy spot - we really had a great ride! We never did see another horseman. We did see a young guy with his phone out in front of him, just past the gate - clueless that we were anywhere around - playing <a href="http://blog.clustrix.com/2016/07/11/pokemon-go-becomes-pokey-man-stop/" target="_blank">Pokemon Go</a>... Where this craze will <i>GO</i> - is anyone's guess!</div>
</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3054630053300540706.post-21468301996610659882016-07-20T21:00:00.000-07:002016-07-21T17:20:51.757-07:00Whitehorse News!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Upon reading the <a href="http://www.heraldnet.com/news/crews-rebuilding-whitehorse-trail-section-destroyed-by-oso-mudslide/" target="_blank">Herald Article</a> about the continuing work on the Whitehorse Trail near <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trafton,_Washington" target="_blank">Trafton</a>, I wanted to ride out & see if anything had changed since our last visit. This has been the spot that I've lobbied to get completed since the bridges were decked.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cmWunLwmDQk/V5EB9ReQZ0I/AAAAAAAATCM/0IJF0xlKNUYL3vOD3MSy_Ndi6GZq9wnjgCEw/s1600/IMG_5811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cmWunLwmDQk/V5EB9ReQZ0I/AAAAAAAATCM/0IJF0xlKNUYL3vOD3MSy_Ndi6GZq9wnjgCEw/s400/IMG_5811.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">East toward <a href="http://hikeoftheweek.com/new/cloverdale-farm/" target="_blank">Cloverdale</a>~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was a truly beautiful day, warming rapidly - with enough of a breeze to keep it comfortable. Every time we <i>trudge</i> out on the rock, I think of how very nice it will be once the loose rock surface is mitigated. I'm hoping that it will end up being something similar to the surface of the <a href="http://www.kingcounty.gov/services/parks-recreation/parks/trails/regional-trails/popular-trails/svt.aspx" target="_blank">Snoqualmie Valley Trail</a>.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4X3hwDVwNNk/V5EB10KPfRI/AAAAAAAATCM/b6jZlu9JGT0z8MoxX5V0p6gA9t75HrNDwCEw/s1600/IMG_5812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4X3hwDVwNNk/V5EB10KPfRI/AAAAAAAATCM/b6jZlu9JGT0z8MoxX5V0p6gA9t75HrNDwCEw/s400/IMG_5812.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Farah halts!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I saw the dust up ahead before Farah did! She was moving right along - looking forward to her grazing time during our lunch break - when she realized something was up.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AmTyKNdcYgo/V5EB6XS-IGI/AAAAAAAATCM/RyrtI_5KUsgvFkpeQykdI-OSmoMdlQvMwCEw/s1600/IMG_5815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AmTyKNdcYgo/V5EB6XS-IGI/AAAAAAAATCM/RyrtI_5KUsgvFkpeQykdI-OSmoMdlQvMwCEw/s400/IMG_5815.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Punching through!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I can't tell you how excited I was to see this happening! Finally - after what has seemed like a very long wait - work is beginning on the Arlington end of the trail!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0a2PCthWug8/V5ECPHLV6II/AAAAAAAATCM/tgRN8cs7ZHsjPX1qx_JekpK-mGozKmEJwCEw/s1600/IMG_5817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0a2PCthWug8/V5ECPHLV6II/AAAAAAAATCM/tgRN8cs7ZHsjPX1qx_JekpK-mGozKmEJwCEw/s400/IMG_5817.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excavator at work~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With trucks coming & going, all the noise & dust, Farah was still <i>Determined</i> to have her lunch! Pulling me right past the huge root balls below & over to the tall grass.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xCiz03GII0w/V5FElnWEpiI/AAAAAAAATDE/S2U_s-QrAxkqOACkD_uEChJTMP3vVPn9wCLcB/s1600/IMG_5818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xCiz03GII0w/V5FElnWEpiI/AAAAAAAATDE/S2U_s-QrAxkqOACkD_uEChJTMP3vVPn9wCLcB/s400/IMG_5818.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roots of two huge Big Leaf Maples~</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I let her take a few bites, but it wasn't our usual peaceful spot & our presence was slowing the trucks down, so we headed back.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_TkQqQbPWKY/V5ECeVJ2p9I/AAAAAAAATCM/RR-tl_V82fw0ytj9rrzvdhIyoIBlAwx5gCEw/s1600/IMG_5821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_TkQqQbPWKY/V5ECeVJ2p9I/AAAAAAAATCM/RR-tl_V82fw0ytj9rrzvdhIyoIBlAwx5gCEw/s400/IMG_5821.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over Tin Bridge</td></tr>
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Once over the bridge, we stopped again - I ate my lunch & Farah was happy to graze before we started back. I was anxious to get home & share with Butch the latest news!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MX72f-lYcGc/V5ECufggWVI/AAAAAAAATCM/Tdhunlg6iA0Ps4UqBHN1V_EHsbdjbGnnwCEw/s1600/IMG_5827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MX72f-lYcGc/V5ECufggWVI/AAAAAAAATCM/Tdhunlg6iA0Ps4UqBHN1V_EHsbdjbGnnwCEw/s400/IMG_5827.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the project~</td></tr>
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It's still pretty strange to have my husband arriving home earlier! It hasn't even been a week & Butch is still <i>adjusting</i> to a 20-min. commute :-) I wanted to see the changes at his project, he wanted to see the changes on the trail! On the way, we stopped at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Nuttys-Junk-Yard-Grill-154724621396629/" target="_blank">Nutty's Junk Yard Grill</a> for a hamburger & shake! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rock going down~</td></tr>
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We parked at Cloverdale & walked down to the trail. Things were quiet & it was such a nice evening. It's incredible how much rock it's going to take to re-build the old rail bed. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2YvtnqI4wMU/V5EDIwcrDFI/AAAAAAAATCg/CsEcjVoDUTUxxJSxYoDs8SmHp4FCGl9nwCEw/s1600/IMG_5829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2YvtnqI4wMU/V5EDIwcrDFI/AAAAAAAATCg/CsEcjVoDUTUxxJSxYoDs8SmHp4FCGl9nwCEw/s400/IMG_5829.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Further on~</td></tr>
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The hillside is being graded & all those organics have to be removed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ShHEUkh8tQw/V5EDoLmb5NI/AAAAAAAATCg/89IJyP1zSfk5ayYXyJ1vlZ9tTOf7BI-AQCEw/s1600/IMG_5831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ShHEUkh8tQw/V5EDoLmb5NI/AAAAAAAATCg/89IJyP1zSfk5ayYXyJ1vlZ9tTOf7BI-AQCEw/s400/IMG_5831.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To 115th~</td></tr>
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This work goes as far as 115th, from that point on - there's another year's worth of brush to clear to get to bridge #702.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMFOvVlCLsY/V5ED1YgP84I/AAAAAAAATCo/bcoaaPNHD1AJ3o_OBTygkyOWibFYMXvJwCEw/s1600/IMG_5832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMFOvVlCLsY/V5ED1YgP84I/AAAAAAAATCo/bcoaaPNHD1AJ3o_OBTygkyOWibFYMXvJwCEw/s400/IMG_5832.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Very old signage - where the trail will continue~</td></tr>
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Below is how this section looked June 3rd of last year. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trail from 115th - heading to Bridge #702</td></tr>
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On that ride, we made it through & across Hwy 530 to the Cicero Bridge that had just been decked & was yet to open. <a href="http://hogehomestead.blogspot.com/2015/06/bracken-to-cicero-bridge.html" target="_blank">Post~ </a> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njq7perFN9I/V5FNLEJp0II/AAAAAAAATDU/RffCdNU7Psw4fvElUc3hz3eg0eV8YTAoACLcB/s1600/Whitehorse%2Bto%2BCicero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-njq7perFN9I/V5FNLEJp0II/AAAAAAAATDU/RffCdNU7Psw4fvElUc3hz3eg0eV8YTAoACLcB/s400/Whitehorse%2Bto%2BCicero.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where we went through~</td></tr>
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The Google Earth image above shows clearly the area of construction now. We walked on through to the end of the grading work. Butch & I had hiked out this way from Arlington, Sept. of last year - <a href="http://hogehomestead.blogspot.com/2015/09/hoofin-it-on-whitehorse.html" target="_blank">Post</a> - wondering how much longer it would be until we'd be able to reach the next of the bridges! (I still remember the day Diane & I were stopped by a bridge with a rotting deck after having fought our way out from Tin Bridge.)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--fMCSgFv_nI/V5EEGcc8peI/AAAAAAAATCo/L-IDm90zxlEdARt3Ozt8d4gSgMFmtIkrACEw/s1600/IMG_5833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--fMCSgFv_nI/V5EEGcc8peI/AAAAAAAATCo/L-IDm90zxlEdARt3Ozt8d4gSgMFmtIkrACEw/s400/IMG_5833.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back toward Cloverdale~</td></tr>
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At the<i> <a href="http://www.snohomish.org/news-information/rural-tourism-workshop-series" target="_blank">Stillaquamish-Sauk Tourism All Action Team Meeting</a></i> I
attended this Monday in Oso, I again had the opportunity to talk with
<a href="http://www.sauk-suiattle.com/" target="_blank">Sauk-Suiattle Indian Tribe</a>, Tribal Council Vice Chairman J. Kevin Lenon. Kevin is a fellow
horseman, who's working to establish a parking area at the east end of
the trail. He shared the translation of <i>Whitehorse</i> - <span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: white;"><i>so-bali-ahli.</i></span></span> <br />
<br />
If all goes well, the trail will open March of 2017. Parks has published a <a href="http://www.snohomishcountywa.gov/3693/Whitehorse-Regional-Trail" target="_blank">Whitehorse Regional Trail</a> project page that will be updated as projects are completed & funded. In the Herald article, there's mention of a bike event already planned. Horsemen in the Darrington/Arlington area are also making plans for a large group ride - to celebrate the trails opening! On the Whitehorse, unlike the Centennial Trail - Equestrians will be able to enjoy the entire 27-mile length! Parking is still a major limiting issue, but plans are still in negotiation for a parking area big enough for trailers at Cemex in Arlington. We hope to leave from Arlington & ride east to the Darrington <a href="http://www.darringtonrodeogrounds.com/contact-information.php" target="_blank">Rodeo Grounds</a>. Stay tuned!</div>
HHmsteadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16129136410081149976noreply@blogger.com0