June 2021 Trip Reports
I stuck close to home in June. My 87- year- old mother had some surgery during the month, which necessitated me standing by in case of emergency. Things are improving on that front now, but I did spend one whole Saturday in the ER with mom after her surgery. So yes, I’m definitely living in interesting times right now.
Pinyon Mesa
I’m fortunate that there are so many places of beauty within a short drive of my house. One such place is Pinyon Mesa, which is so close I can get there in an evening after dinner and be back home and tucked safely into bed by 9:30pm. The whole drive is a loop, part of which is technically considered The Grand Mesa National Forest. This place is spectacular in the fall, but springtime is a close second. From this picture you can see that there are a few dead, drought-afflicted trees, but for the sake of this picture, I think they make a nice contract with the different colors of green. I’m offering a weekend tour and workshop of Pinyon Mesa in mid-September, when the aspen leaves turn to gold. The beauty of this place is truly jaw-dropping!
This sunset shot was also taken on Pinyon Mesa looking west into Utah.
Western Colorado Botanical Gardens
Early fireworks this year! That’s what this photo looks like to me. They’re also much quieter than fireworks! Another bonus! This garden is 12-acres of desert beauty right in the heart of Grand Junction. These gardens are managed by a nonprofit organization known as STRIVE, which offers support to individuals with disabilities and their families. On the first Friday of every month, you can get in for $1! I went and enjoyed a couple hours of peace and mindful photography. While I was there, I did a video with an affirmative prayer and a short silent meditation. You can find this on a Facebook page I manage called Peace, Prayers & Meditations. Here’s the link for 8 minutes of peacefulness in nature:
https://www.facebook.com/mondaynightpeace/videos/2833036746917237