Clearing the Air - Stevensville, Montana

Ahh, the sweet respite brought by much-prayed-for rain! It sounds odd, but after a couple weeks of ubiquitous smoke in shifting densities, I'd become sort of resigned to perpetual head pressure and brain fug. Kind of a frog-in-kettle thing. It's delightful to breathe deep of clean air and to look across the valley and see mountains again. However, we're fervently hoping for more rain.

Roadside Creek, Missoula, Montana

With the onset of warm weather - (hah! wishful thinking on my part!) - I’ve decided to try something new with my allotted lunch hour. Realistically, it only takes 15 minutes to warm up my lunch and eat. And if I plan ahead, I can post my blog in 15 minutes or so. The leftover time allows for a nice little walk. And if I head down the side street by our office, 5-7 minutes brings me to a lovely creek that crosses under the road. (You can't tell from this picture, but the creek runs through an industrial business area and there's a road beyond the far end of this view. I had to time the shot for a break in traffic so no vehicles would be visible.)

Thus far on my new routine I’ve learned a few key bits of knowledge: 1) the wind picks up considerably once you round the corner of the building and head west; 2) your head will hurt if you walk in a cold wind without a hat; and 3) it’s good to bring a scarf, even if the sun is shining when you leave home.
As I should know by now, Montana's weather is famous mercurial.

River Meets Sky, Downtown Missoula, Montana

Mmmmm..... can you just feel the reflective peace seep into your soul? Not yet? Look longer, and breathe in, slowly; out, slowly. Repeat as needed.

Expanses of water and prairie always uplift my state of mind. The stretch of calm, stroked by rippling fingers of wind, provokes a feeling different from the craggy awe of mountains and roaring rivers.

Gravel Bar Hangout, Clark Fork River, Missoula, Montana

There's nothing quite like a sunny Montana winter afternoon for hanging out with like-minded individuals at the local gravel bar.  Here's hoping for a decent karaoke rendition of "Shake A Tail Feather"! 

(Please please please, do yourself a happy favour and click that last link - then stand up sing along!)