summer hike

We camped twice this summer in Rocky Mountain National Park.  Once at Glacier Basin and once at Aspenglen.  We loved Aspenglen.  It's smaller, less crowded and just a little quieter.  

While we were there, we tackled a pretty big hike--Deer Mountain.  If we'd known how long it was, we might not have tried, but it was so worth it!  Little Z had to be carried part of the way.  It was 6 miles roundtrip and his little legs got so tired.  The summit was incredible.  This photo was taken just part way up the trail. 

deep thoughts from a backyard dahlia

Summer is officially over, but my backyard dahlias are still in bloom.  I love how a little bit of summer is hanging on into fall, reminding me that life is a process, that one season often bleeds over into the next.  It's comforting to go at nature's pace, not having to rush things along.  It's nice when seasons change gradually, allowing us time and space to absorb both the loss of one and the newness of the next.  The presence of this dahlia reminds me to be kind to myself, to allow things come and go with ease and to the enjoy the moment that I have, knowing it won't last forever.