Company, sweet blooms and bird song

Lots of fun had with old friends Bob and Peggy; a relationship rekindled after many years apart. They've lived in Colorado since 1999 but knew little about our area. We had a great time and as always, enjoyed showing off "our" little place of heaven.

We headed once again toward Ohio Pass, knowing it had been closed just two days before, and hurray, it had just opened up. Still snow in patches but so great to be able to go that way. Made it to Lake Irwin which had also just opened up. Interesting, they have sheep grazing up there now with guard dogs - we didn't see any but there's a big sign with pictures on how to behave around them. Rounding out the morning we went up to Gothic. Everything is just leafing out - 10 days behind Star Mt., but still gorgeous any time.

those fabulous early glacier lilies

 Intended to go to Secret Stash (of course) but it's closed for lunch now. The grand opening of their new location down the street is June 19th, so I think they're busy finishing the grand new place. We've been assured that all their funky decorating will be moved as well. You have to see it to believe it... So, Ryce it was, and a terrific lunch was had.

Hammock is up and open for business. I was in it for awhile yesterday. I swear there's some kind of sedative drug built in, amazingly relaxing, the bird song, aspen leaves rustling - could hardly haul myself out...

Hanging baskets are up and doing well. If any of you remember the story from last summer when I nearly killed these sweet expensive baskets watering with our well water. Mark figured it out and now it's rain or spring water for these babies.

The online archaeology class is going well so far. The professor is quite a character, filming from her messy office as a start and the requirements are definitely low key compared to my crazy genetics class. Wonderful opportunity for learning - FREE.(coursera.com)

The creatures winged and four footed are busy, busy all around us. I swear it's the same pair of slightly wacky robins from the last 2 years now trying to build their own nest. Not the best job I ever saw...

I leave the end of the week for Reston. Get to see Miss Penny while helping Tiffany and Chris get their house organized, spit spot and ready to sell.