Sharrott Creek Fire Camp Edge - US Hwy 93, Stevensville, Montana

This quote in no way denigrates the seriousness of the Sharrott Creek and other wildfires, especially as relates to people’s safety. But driving past this smokey reminder of possible loss on our way to visit family re-upped my ongoing pondering on what is truly important.

"…Imitate the trees. Learn to lose in order to recover, and remember that nothing stays the same for long, not even pain…Sit it out. Let it all pass. Let it go." - May Sarton (1912-1995), from Journal Of A Solitude

(Quote find thanks to Austin Kleon in his thoughtful action-inspiring Keep Going: 10 Ways To Stay Creative…)

Over and Around, Hamilton, Montana

"What thing unto mine ear

      Wouldst thou convey,—what secret thing,

O wandering water ever whispering?..."

- From  "The Stream's Secret", by Dante Gabriel Rossetti

Sunlight-Shadow (Interplay), Hamilton, Montana

End-of-summer sunshine makes for perfect hiking in Western Montana‘s forests. 
Well, perfect aside from the need to beware of bears in the vicinity. 
And perhaps bow hunters. 
And maybe moose. 
But, there are no ticks! 
And the danger of the others can at least be mitigated and prepared for by wearing obvious colour and keeping your eyes and ears open. 

Wherever you are, plan a way to get out into your own patch of nature and enjoy - even (especially?) if that means lolling in your backyard hammock!

Frosty New Year's Eve, Hamilton, Montana

Another beautiful view gazing west in the Bitterroot Valley. Happy New Year, everyone!

Blodgett Canyon Chipmunk, West of Hamilton, MT

Awwwww... isn't he cute? I made a stab at chipmunk talk, & this little guy kept coming closer. Maybe I was actually chirping something useful about a stash of nuts hidden near Blodgett Creek?