Catching Up

For the past couple weeks I've been in training here at Bryce. When I saw my absurdly regular (for an interp ranger) schedule--8 to 5 every day--I naively thought to myself that I'd have plenty of time after work to hike and draw.

Not the case.

I forgot about the homework part.

SO...I've fallen behind on my creative "doodle" resolution (though I did manage one a few days ago)...

...and am a little less in shape than I was two weeks ago.

Moonlight and fog in the Ponderosa Forest
3x5, Zig Pen 

 I finally got out for a hike this morning. After a blissful (and MUCH needed!) 10 hours of sleep, I decided to explore an area seldom visited by the public. The wildflowers are just starting to emerge, and I cursed myself for forgetting my guidebook. Next time! Intermittent squalls and sun made for some dramatic lighting. The silence was bliss. Since my last hike, many more birds have returned. I'll need to start learning their calls. A favorite moment: while I rested on a cliff edge, a peregrine falcon rocketed down between two rock fins not 10 feet from where I was sitting. The sudden rush sent a jolt of adrenaline through my body. It almost felt as though the force of bird's momentum would pull me forward into free fall. Far below I hear its defiant screams echoing between the hoodoos. I love this place. 

Bristlecone Pine on the Rim Trail