American Motor Drome Co, Evel Knievel Days, Butte, Montana

Here's a close-up of a motorcycle from the Wall of Death show put on by the American Motor Drome Co. at the 2011 Evel Knievel Days in Butte, Montana.

Wall of Death, Evel Knievel Days, Butte, Montana

So, speaking of Evel Knievel Days, we experienced the American Motor Drome Co. at the 2011 Days - you have to see it to believe it. Mix daring riders with vintage Indian & Harley motorcycles and a healthy dose of centrifugal force, & you have the Wall of Death.

Closing Show, Evel Knievel Days 2011, Butte, Montana

Okay, '80's children, here's one for you: Last night, in a music-related conversation with friends, my husband pops out with, "... and when we opened for that 'I Wear My Sunglasses At Night' guy in Missoula...." (Corey Hart), and later, "...that time we opened for the Beach Boys ...". 

You'd think I'd already know these things, but maybe Mr. Nash is just keeping the mystery alive.

Here's a shot of my favourite man in his fave band, the Tomcats.

Ponderosa Pine, Teller Wildlife Refuge, Corvallis, Montana

Did you know that ponderosa pines can smell like really good vanilla? Get your nose right up to the cracks in the bark - ignore odd looks from passing hikers - & take a big sniff.  I always think the bigger trees will have a better aroma, but the youngsters often surprise me. Persevere 'til you find a good tree, & you may acquire a new nature habit.

Skalkaho Creek, Hamilton, Montana

I'm continually astonished at how much beauty is right off the roadside.

Rhythmic Suspense, Missoula, Montana

During a pause to take in the river calm, I was a bit alarmed to sense a rhythmic sway in the bridge, particularly since my latest book immersion had me imagining random mining blasts shaking the 1919 neighborhoods of Butte, Montana. Pulling my mind back to the present, I looked up to see the movement was caused by  a brisk walker at the far end of the bridge - a pointed reminder that this is indeed a suspension bridge.

River Trail Scenery, Missoula, Montana

Missoula, Montana, has a splendid & well-used river trail, running right through the thick of downtown. The art wall near the Russell Street bridge constantly changes to highlight the emotions & talent of local graffitists. (Yes, it's a real word.)