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FIELD NOTES · SHORT STORIES · PARK ADVENTURES
I had my eyes closed when my friend Roger drove over it. Wasn't asleep, exactly. My head rested against the passenger window, and the pickup was rocking me somewhere close to sleep, when the tires hit iron. Clatter-clatter. The sound came through the floorboards and up my boots, and I was ten years old again, riding beside Grandpa toward a weathered barn…
I had a cat once named Kitty — original, I know. He was a cuddler, the kind who’d fall asleep against your chest and stay there for an hour. And then, completely out of nowhere, h…
I still walk into rooms lit only by silver and shadow, where the world was quiet enough to hear a screen door slap shut behind me and know it meant supper, not escape. The coffee’s…
Some folks you meet drift through your life like tumbleweeds, barely leaving a track. Others, well, others are like Adel Finch. She lived way down at the end of our half-mile dirt …
In the heart of pine-scented mountains, vast and evergreen, A rustic cabin stood, a shelter snug within. Inside, there dwelled a rancher and his cherished wife, Their love, a stead…
High up in Wyoming’s Bighorn Mountains lies the Medicine Wheel, a mysterious and ancient stone circle. This National Historic Landmark holds deep significance for many Native Ameri…
Crystal fragments fall from slate grey skies, Kissing frozen earth as the north wind sighs. Bony branches reach from the swirling mist That cloaks the woods in silvered amethyst. S…
In the depths of the night, where shadows creep, Lie tales of darkness, so hauntingly deep. A moon cloaked in mist, a chilling wind’s wail, Where spirits awaken, and courage may fa…
Introduction This is the story of my dear friend, Beula. She was a beautiful dapple grey mare who came to live with us two days after my tenth birthday. Beula was already mature in…
Stepped out on the porch for two minutes and ended up standing there for twenty. The moon came up huge and orange behind a bank of clouds, low enough over the ridge that for a while…
A story of misadventure and understanding The summer sun slanted through the open barn doors, coating the hay and wooden rafters in a golden haze. As I pitched hay, beads of sweat …
When I was growing up, a trip to Yellowstone always included a stop at Fishing Bridge. Looking down from the bridge, I was fascinated, watching the schools of fish swimming by. If …
In the depths of verdant woods, whispers dwell, Ancient trees stand tall, with stories to tell. A tapestry woven with secrets untold, The forest, a sanctuary for spirits of old. Th…
Can you smell the pine? It’s intoxicating. =]:)…
Underneath, there are secrets Kept safe from prying eyes Held fast and secure Behind a lame disguise Would they think less of me If everything was shown I wonder, would their eyes …
I thought this building looked interesting, so I snapped a pic. Only later, when I looked at it, did I see how it blended into the sky. I think it’s pretty cool! =]:)…
Come along on an Autumn walk down this country road. =]:)…
Spooky! I call this my bat tree. Can you see them? =]:)…
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Fall has...fallen? This might be my favorite time of year. I love the scents, the colors, and the cooler weather; there’s just nothing better! =]:)…
This is Buffalo Plateau at sunset. =]:)…
Not anymore. I went running on that road. =]:)…
A foggy day at the lake. =]:)…
Welcome Spring. Rime ice at Palette Spring in Mammoth. =]:)…
In Yellowstone National Park, Mount Holmes is a significant mountain peak. It is the highest peak in the Gallatin Range’s Wyoming section. In the park’s northwest corner, Mount Hol…
Abiathar Summit is a mountain peak in Yellowstone National Park’s northeastern part, in the Absaroka Range of Wyoming, elevation 10,928 feet (3,331 m). Members of the Hague Geologi…
Rime ice forms when supercooled water liquid droplets freeze onto surfaces. Meteorologists distinguish between three basic types of ice forming on vertical and horizontal surfaces …
A frosty morning on Jenny Lake Jenny Lake is one of Grand Teton National Park’s most popular destinations. The park’s showpiece is the lake, which is tucked away at the base of the…
Frosty sagebrush in Grand Teton National Park. =]:)…
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The Red Squirrels of Wyoming Scientific Name Tamiasciurus hudsonicus Identification 11–15 inches long, 6.7–7 ounces. Brownish-red on its upper half; dark stripe above white ventral…
Fall has been discontinued because of snow. There will be no refunds given. =]:)…
Natures frilly foliage Yellowstone Mountain Ash in beautiful Autumn colors. =]:)…
Flowers of Autumn These are Arrowleaf Balsamroot, reaching to the sun in an Autumn sky. =]:)…
A Bison break Bison take a break beneath the Autumn colored Aspens. =]:)…
One lonely Autumn Aspen... amongst the pine trees. =]:)…
Betty Reid Soskin is the oldest active ranger in the National Park Service. Over the past decade and a half, Ranger Betty has shared her experiences as well as the efforts and sacr…
Walking in the clouds in Grand Teton National Park. Fall is in the air. =]:)…
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The National Park Service was officially established on August 25, 1916! For 105 years, the National Park Service has been entrusted with the care of our national parks. With the h…
This little guy wasn’t interested in having a friendly conversation. =]:)…
Happy Independence Day from the Grand Tetons! =]:)…
A Lamar River Sunrise The Lamar River is a tributary of the Yellowstone River. It’s about 40 miles long. The river is located entirely within Yellowstone National Park. Before the …
It’s Spring in Wyoming! No, wait, it’s winter! Nope, the calendar says Spring. Oh well. Whatever season it happens to be, the Tetons are always magnificent! =]:)…
This is my new favorite word I’m sure many of us can relate to this word just now. We long for the days when we can decide to travel and just go. Hang in there. Those days will be …
Hike into the heart of the Teton range You should be in good shape and experienced at hiking to do this one. It is about 8.4 miles round trip and will take you from 4 to 8 hours wi…
Yellowstone Migrations Yellowstone’s 22.6-million-acre region contains the longest known pathways for mule deer and pronghorn. The distance, movements, and routes rival wildebeests…
Some Yellowstone Park staff won’t wear clothes! No, the Yellowstone park rangers haven’t started a nudist colony, although that would be interesting, I suppose. I’m talking about t…
This is my new favorite word Whist; whisted; whisting; whists \ ˈ(h)wist \ is a verb. I love the way this word sounds. It’s soothing as you speak it. I’m having trouble using this …
What are the best campsites in Yellowstone? Glad you asked! I prefer to camp outside the park in more remote areas. It’s just as beautiful, but less crowded and no reservation requ…
The history of the Grand Lady The beautiful Lake Hotel was originally built in 1891 as a barracks-like structure, then was redesigned and expanded by Robert Reamer, the architect o…
This is my new favorite word Mitis-simus (phonetic spelling) is an adjective. I chose the photo of a dog because I thought it went well with the meaning. Anyone who has ever had a …
You must hike the beautiful Taggart Lake trail. This trail is about a 4-mile loop, and it is near a place called Moose, Wyoming. You can tackle the trail on your own or take a Rang…
Fairy Falls is beautiful in the warmer months, but it takes on a magical glow in winter. Fairy Falls is about 197 feet tall and is one of the tallest in Yellowstone. The falls casc…
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Watch your step! The rocky staircase can be treacherous! Northwest Wyoming has the largest concentrations of Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis) in the lower 48 states. In Yellowstone,…
Here is another "Hidden Yellowstone" hike. When you come to Yellowstone, there are so many interesting places to see. You can spend days in the park traveling all the roads, stoppi…
Are you ready for another mesmerizing hike to an unforgettable spot? Well, you found it! Amy Galbraith took this beautiful photo. It makes you wish you were there, doesn’t it? Okay…
Here’s something a little different. Hiking to a bit of Yellowstone history. I’m a sucker for anything hidden or difficult to find. Maybe it’s the whole finding a treasure map thin…
How about a hike? I have one for you. The Cascade Canyon Trail in Grand Tetons National Park. This is a long one. It’s 13.6 miles round trip. This is a stunning hike if you don’t m…
Here’s an electrifying hike. Electric Peak got its name during the first climb in 1872 by the United States Geological Survey. Members of the Hayden Survey led by Henry Gannett exp…
Let me tell ya about a secret hidden place in Yellowstone Shh . Tell no one I told you about a hidden secret place in Yellowstone you just have to find. It’s a place where the cool…
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Have you ever seen a photo of a beautiful place that makes you think, "It can’t be real? Someone must have altered it to make it look so magical." And as you admire the photo, you …
when life seems hopeless and despair has grabbed hold and kept you there inside the blackest places known you feel scared and alone search within, look deep inside a tiny speck of …
Do you want to go do something? Um, why don’t we just talk? About what? I don’t know. You start. Ok. Hmm. Do you remember that time... Yes! That was so damned funny! Why do you alw…
Come along with me on a virtual Christmas hike through Yellowstone, set to Christmas music. Happy Holidays! =]:)…
Winter has come a little early to Wyoming. The temperatures are already dipping below our comfort level, and the snow has blanketed the ground. There is beauty in winter, unlike an…
I hike up the ridge to my favorite overlook in the park and ease out close to the edge. I sit, dangle my right leg over the rock face, and lean against a boulder. This has been my …
I can still hear my grandfather whispering to me, "Leave the wild animals in peace, Peter." He always taught me, by example, to respect people, the environment, and all wildlife. "…
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A beautiful, somewhat brisk morning. I’ll need my snowshoes soon!…
And we made it! Now, it’s just a short climb and then sliding down, down, down into the blue/green pool below. A very COLD pool! But it’s so fun you only notice it’s cold the first…
The orange in these cliffs makes it appear to glow. =]:)…
Check out this cool wooden bridge. It reminds me of a tropical rain forest. It’s so lush and green here, and it’s almost impossible to see through the foliage. I wonder what could …
Still making progress along the trail to the waterfall, but I had to stop to look at this tree full of secret messages. Oh, the stories this tree could tell. It can’t talk though, …
We’ve made it to the lower part of the falls. Is there anything as refreshing as the sound of rolling, churning water? How can you not smile while looking at a waterfall? So why ar…
As we get closer to the waterfalls, we decided to stop here for a while to take in that amazing sky and the scent of wildflowers. Okay, and maybe to rest a bit too. The air is fill…
Heading up, on our way to the falls. What a gorgeous day for a hike, and just warm enough for a swim too. =]:)…
I came upon this wonderful old tree on my way back down the mountain. It seems to be pointing the way. Who am I to argue? =]:)…
Comet Neowise from my little neck of the woods. It looks like it just spilled out of the Big dipper. =]:) And just for fun, I took this one of Jupiter next to Saturn in the colorfu…
When profits become your God, morals, empathy, and integrity no longer make cents.…
Blateration is my new favorite word. Pronounced: [BLAT-uh-REY-shuhn] From Old Norse “blaðra” from Latin “blaterāre” present active infinitive of “blaterō” - onomatopoeia from the s…
Run away with me to the mountains; we’ll find peace of mind. Let’s snuggle close together; leave our cares behind. Look up and see the stars shining, high above the trees. They gli…
Apparently, birds are this springs hottest fashion accessory! =]:)…
This sunset reminded me of cotton candy as it’s being spun around the cardboard cone at the county fair. =]:)…
A nice way to begin the day. =]:)…
I stopped to catch my breath while out for a jog, and snapped this photo. We are expecting more snow in a couple of days, so spring isn’t quite awake yet. =]:)…
A pink sunset from last nights walk. Thankfully I live in the sticks, so social distancing is no problem. =]:)…
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Here is last nights Pink Super Moon. Yeah, I know the moon doesn’t look pink. It’s actually named after pink flowers that bloom in early spring. Who knew? I took this in Lander, Wy…
I hope you’re all doing well. You are all in my thoughts. Here’s a photo I took last weekend, close to where I live. I hope it makes you feel a little less stressed. Make a wish on…
My new favorite word is Prevaricate Pronounced / prih-VAIR-ih-keyt / This word comes from Latin “praevaricatus / praevaricari” (to act in collusion, to straddle) from “prae-” + “va…
Happy birthday, Yellowstone! Wow! You are 148 today and I hope there are many more. You were born on March 1, 1872 making you the world’s first national park. When President Grant …
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Happy birthday, Grand Teton National Park! Good morning! It’s been awhile and I’ve missed talking with all of you. I can’t believe a year has past already since my last birthday wi…
A perfect evening to take a walk across the meadow. Why not come along? =]:)…
A storm moving in on Limestone Mountain. Of course I was busy taking photos, and forgot that I had walked a couple of miles away from the vehicle. The rain felt good though. =]:)…
I spent last weekend at my favorite lake, swimming, walking by the beach and doing something new for me...paddle boarding. I have a new obsession! While walking along the beach, we…
I stopped and took this photo while on our way back from the mountains where we spent the day swimming. This is Red Rock Canyon. I love driving through here on my way home. It’s pe…
They took this photo of Wind River Canyon long ago when the road was brand new. I’ll try to take a photo soon of the canyon for comparison. I drive this canyon at least once a week…
My new favorite word is Sweven I love this word! Pronounced /ˈswɛvən/ This old word comes from Middle English sweven, from Old English swefn (“sleep, dream, vision”), from Proto-Ge…
It’s one of the largest cats in North America, and a top predator. It’s the Yellowstone cougar (puma concolor), also known as the mountain lion. Cougars are beautiful, sleek creatu…
Mr. Mouse was minding his own business, walking through the snow on his way home, but he never made it. He just disappeared. So, put your Sherlock cap on. Can you deduce what happe…
Spring is finally on the way. Are you ready? My camping equipment keeps calling to me whenever I’m out in the barn. Soon, I’ll be able to answer!…
Maybe this is Rutt and Tuke from Disney’s Brother Bear? They really need to get along better!…
Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming. At about 310,000 acres (480 sq mi), the park includes the major peaks of the 40-mile-long Teton Range as well as most …
The Gardner River (also known as the Gardiner River) is a tributary of the Yellowstone River, and is about 25 miles long. It’s located in northwestern Wyoming and south central Mon…
Here is a Belted Kingfisher. He sort of looks like he might be having a bad hair day. No? This guy depends on open water so it can dive after fish and other aquatic animals. It liv…
At the north entrance to Yellowstone is the Roosevelt Arch. It was constructed under the supervision of the U.S. Army at Fort Yellowstone. The entrance is in the town of Gardiner, …
The Lion Group comprises four geysers which are Lion, Lioness, Big Cub, and Little Cub, and they are all connected underground. Lion has the largest cone and eruptions. Active phas…
This is my favorite time of day, when the sun sets behind the mountains, and the world gets still. Minds and bodies relax, and everything slows down little by little. Friends might…
The beautiful West Thumb area was the first Yellowstone feature to be written about in a publication. Daniel T. Potts, a trapper in the Yellowstone region in the 1820s, wrote a let…
This is my new favorite word Pronounced: /əˈkwɪv.ər/ I’m sure you’ve experienced this word in real life at least once. Maybe it was right before a kiss, when your knees went all we…
I don’t have dreams anymore; it all slipped away. I don’t think about tomorrow; just another endless day. I don’t look forward to the future, the way I once did. Mirth and solace f…
You can get up-close and personal with Upper and Lower Falls in Yellowstone. If you ever wanted to see what it looks like right before you go over the falls, then you will love the…
Just north of Norris Geyser Basin in Yellowstone you’ll find a tranquil, lovely place called Nymph Lake. Frying Pan Spring’s hot waters feeds Nymph Lake. On a lovely early spring o…
Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Yellowstone. The crowds are mostly gone, and the weather is cooler. The animals are out and about as they prepare for winter. If you have a hank…
Do you need some Autumn Splendor? I went to the Tetons Sunday, looking for some Fall colors and to renew. I wasn’t disappointed. So come along with me and walk among the colors of …
Meet Dave. I thought this was awesome. So come along with Dave and his off-road wheelchair as he explores Yellowstone National Park. Meet Dave. Here’s Dave maneuvering obstacles wi…
Let’s follow the road to the pink and purple cotton candy clouds. Breathe in the scent of the white, yellow and purple wildflowers. Feel the cool breeze tickle your face and ears. …
Started in 1981 to celebrate the 75th birthday of Riverton, Wyoming and has continued every year since on the 3rd weekend of July. This was my favorite balloon at this years rally.…
This is the main terrace and I never get tired of looking at it. Mostly because it’s ever-changing and never looks quite the same whenever I visit. Travertine terraces are formed f…
Light melts across the gilded field sunbeams through holes in a cloud silently across your face, rays yield shadows cast off their shroud A dewy kiss warms morning thoughts of a lo…
One of the more interesting things about Canary Springs, and all of the springs in Mammoth Hot Springs, is that they are ever-changing and evolving. Canary has a temperature of 160…
Photo NPS/Tobiason It’s the Tetons birthday, and hopefully, there will be many more. If you haven’t been to the Tetons, they’re a little difficult to describe, and even photos don’…
Super Blood Moon over Roosevelt Arch This photo was taken by NPS/Jacob W. Frank and is a cool in-camera double exposure of the recent super blood moon. It looks especially eerie, a…
Frozen Lower Falls - Photo NPS/Jacob W. Frank This is a frozen shot from Lookout Point. This has been a spot people view Lower Falls for as many years as people have been venturing…
Cynthia was a blond, blue-eyed spitfire with freckles and an attitude that wouldn’t quit, and I adored her. I guess you would consider her tomboyish, but she was also as sweet as p…
Porcelain pools through the trees Porcelain Basin gets its name from the milky color of the mineral deposits. The mineral, siliceous sinter, is brought to the surface by hot water …
Antler Peak Antler Peak is a striking mountain peak in the Gallatin Range in Yellowstone National Park and rises to 10,063 feet. It has gone through some name changes over the year…
Portrait of Steven Fuller by Neal Herbert/National Park Service I’d love to have this job! How about you? Steven Fuller welcomed his 45th consecutive New Year’s morning in Yellowst…
You’ll find Tangled Creek in the Lower Geyser Basin. What a strange name? Well, not really. It was named by the United States Geological Survey in 1885 because of its unique chaoti…
Brr! Grand Teton is the highest mountain in Grand Teton National Park rising 13,775 feet and is the second highest peak in Wyoming after Gannett Peak. The mountain is entirely with…
Norris Geyser Basin has some of the park’s most unpredictable and fascinating geothermal features. Its 2½ miles of trails takes you past thermal geysers, rainbow colored hot spring…
My new favorite word is Ultracrepidarian Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other p…
Monitor Peak sunset from Mammoth Hot Springs Photo: NPS/Jacob W. Frank…
I took this near the Tetons here in Wyoming. The overcast day, and a camera setting mishap gave the photo a surreal look. Sometimes camera accidents are a good thing. =]:)…
This is my new favorite word Just living is not enough... one must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower. - Hans Christian Andersen Pronounced: http://www.pronouncekiwi.com/C…
This is my new favorite word If you live among wolves you have to act like a wolf. - Nikita Khrushchev Pronounced: /ˈlīkənˌTHrōp/ Derived from the Greek lycanthropos meaning "wolf-…
Pernicious doll sits on my shelf, titillated with herself. Eyes ashen like bituminous coal, bleeds into me, snuffs my soul. Her gaze upon where I lay, is she contemplating foul pla…
This is my new favorite word Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power. - Abraham Lincoln Pronounced: https://youtu.be/4OQCVpKHZ…
This is my new favorite word Whenever I get fed up with life I love to go wandering in nature. - Andrea Arnold Pronounced: https://www.howtopronounce.com/montivagant/ Usage example…
This is one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in the Grand Teton National Park. You can hear distant birds, the breeze through the sagebrush, maybe a coyote or two. =]:)…
Grand Teton National Park is wonderful to visit any time of year, but Autumn is my favorite. Fall brings many wonderful things to the Tetons, but one thing it takes away are the la…
This is my new favorite word I am a searcher... I always was... and I still am... searching for the missing piece - Louise Bourgeois Pronounced: mer-ma Origin: Wagiman (Australian)…
Ah! Beautiful Bunsen Peak. Bunsen Peak gets its name from the German chemist Robert Bunsen, the inventor of the Bunsen Burner and responsible for early work on volcanic geyser theo…
This is my new favorite word No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man. - Heraclitus Pronounced: ka-wa-a-ka-rE This is a Japa…
This is my new favorite word Forgive me my nonsense, as I also forgive the nonsense of those that think they talk sense. - Robert Frost Pronounced: [fluhm-uh-did-l, fluhm-uh-did-l]…
You’ll find Swan Lake in the northern part of Yellowstone National Park, just a few miles south of Mammoth Hot Springs. There is a wolf pack that hangs out here called the Swan Lak…
It’s a nice evening for a stroll along Yellowstone Lake. Care to come along? NEW... BOOTS from Xero Shoes Natural Comfort, Supernatural Performance. Live Life Feet First!…
This is my new favorite word You’re only here for a short visit. Don’t hurry, don’t worry. And be sure to smell the flowers along the way. - Walter Hagen Pronounced: https://forvo.…
There isn’t really a Rainbow Geyser of course, but sometimes if you glimpse an eruption in just the right place, and at just the right time of day, it sure looks like there is. I w…
This is my new favorite word Love is an irresistible desire to be irresistibly desired. - Robert Frost Pronounced: (ˈæpɪtənt) ap′pe·tent…
This is my new favorite word Twilight drops her curtain down, and pins it with a star. - Lucy Maud Montgomery Pronounced: https://www.howtopronounce.com/camhanaich/…
If you’d like to get away from it all, but aren’t in the mood to hike for hours, I’ve got the place for you. I’ve been on this trail many times, and it never disappoints with it’s …
This is my new favorite word He that sows thorns should never go barefoot. - Benjamin Franklin Pronounced: nel-i-pot…
Midway Geyser Basin is a bit smaller than the other basins found alongside the Firehole River. Even though it’s smaller in size, it contains two large features, the 200-by-300-foot…
Last night’s sunset at Yellowstone Lake. It was a really gorgeous day in the park yesterday, not too hot and not too cool. Yellowstone Lake was very calm, so I decided to take a ph…
This is my new favorite word We are a puny and fickle folk. Avarice, hesitation, and following are our diseases. - Ralph Waldo Emerson Pronounced: [hwif-ler, wif-] Do you know anyo…
This is my new favorite word True happiness... is not attained through self-gratification, but through fidelity to a worthy purpose. - Helen Keller ikigai is pronounced: https://yo…
This is my new favorite word We travel, some of us forever, to seek other places, other lives, other souls. – Anais Nin Pronounced: /ˈɡadəˌbout/ Are you a gadabout? Where is your f…
Let’s go for a nice, relaxing ride. The Grand Loop Road provides access to major areas and features of Yellowstone park, including the Upper, Midway and Lower geyser basins, Mammot…
This is my new favorite word Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life. - Omar Khayyam Pronounced: /yo͞odəˈmänik/ My good friend, + A Long found this word for me so I hope…
If you like going swimming in clear blue green water, surrounded by mountains, but not by crowds, then this is your new favorite swimming spot. You’ll likely run into a few other h…
The National Parks are threatened by our current government. Keep up to date on all the news and information on how you can help by visiting: https://twitter.com/aitnps Protecting …
This poem isn’t the kind I usually write. It is on the dark side with a bit of bad language too. If you don’t like reading poems with darker themes, it might be best to skip this o…
This grizzly bear put on quite a show. He seems happy and content to be awake and ready for the spring season. Enjoy the video below. It should bring a smile to your face.…
On this day, March 1st in 1872, Yellowstone National Park was born. Well, okay, not really born because it was already there, but the area was designated as a park and forever prot…
Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming. At about 310,000 acres (480 sq mi), the park includes the major peaks of the 40-mile-long Teton Range as well as most …
Grafton Tyler Brown was an American painter, lithographer and cartographer. He was the first African American artist to create artwork of the Pacific Northwest, California and also…
Beehive Geyser is located in the Upper Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park. The 4-foot tall cone looks like a beehive. The eruptions of Beehive Geyser last around 5 minutes a…
Thomas Moran was born 180 years ago today in Bolton, Lancashire in England. At 7 years of age, he and his Mother and siblings immigrated to America to join his father in Philadelph…
A snowy, cold day at Lookout Point in Yellowstone. Below is the video. Enjoy! =]:)…
Photo: Idaho Fish and Game Magic Valley A female moose fell through an unlatched window into the basement of a home in Hailey, Idaho. It spent about 3 hours in the basement. Don’t …
Working in concert with the sunset last night, Old Faithful Geyser put on quite a show of natural splendor. What is one of your favorite memories of experiencing nature? Video post…
Here’s a video of a black colored grey wolf walking across the road in Lamar Valley. He looks a bit curious about the vehicle, but finally decides it isn’t worth his time. Enjoy! =…
My favorite word this time of year is hóónobee’ wónooyoo’ cec which is Arapaho for Happy New Year! This is a tough one to pronounce, but if you go to the following link, you can li…
This is my new favorite word You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty. - Mahatma Gandhi Pro…
The bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) named for its large horns is native to North America . Their horns can weigh up to 30 lbs, while the sheep weigh up to 300 lbs, but occasionally…
It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light. - Aristotle Onassis Pronounced: (ˈfʌlɡə; ˈfʌlɡɔː) https://youtu.be/UNcCnzL_IvA Have a great rest of the week. …
First love is only a little foolishness and a lot of curiosity. - George Bernard Shaw Pronounced: | f-’rel-skit | https://www.howtopronounce.com/forelsket/ Let me try using it. As …
I close my eyes... I listen to the gentle breeze through the trees, rustling the fallen leaves, as they whirl above the ground, and I can almost taste the sunshine mixed with the s…
Today is Veterans Day, and we honor the men and women who are serving and have served. Yellowstone has a long and proud association with the military. While struggling for many yea…
Not until we are lost do we begin to understand ourselves. - Henry David Thoreau Here’s a nice video about this word:…
Meet George Bumann, an artist living in Wyoming. So what draws an artist to Wyoming, anyway? Watch George explain why he fell in love with Yellowstone and Wyoming from the perspect…
Be thou the rainbow in the storms of life. The evening beam that smiles the clouds away, and tints tomorrow with prophetic ray. - Lord Byron Pronounced: /ˈvespərˌtīn,-ˌtēn/ [ves·pe…
Feast your eyes on this cloudy, Autumn view of the Wind River Mountain range. =]:) The Wind River Range, or "Winds" for short, is a mountain range of the Rocky Mountains in western…
A couple scouting for fishing spots along the Lamar River surprised a bear as it was feeding on a carcass. The grizzly was not happy and in no mood to share. He charged at them and…
Pixie, kobold, elf, and sprite, All are on their rounds tonight; In the wan moon’s silver ray, Thrives their helter-skelter play. - Joel Benton Pronounced: /səˈpəlkrəl/ [suh-puhl-k…
Picture from trib.com Mountain lion sightings are becoming more common here, and I’m sure in other areas too. How can you minimize the chance of being attacked by one? Here are som…
In 1989, scientists at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution heard a sound coming from their audio equipment they hadn’t heard before. They had heard whale sounds many times, but th…
Photos from: https://www.facebook.com "Let us resolve to invest in today’s adolescent girls so that tomorrow they can stand strong as citizens, political leaders, entrepreneurs, he…
Yellowstone National Park has started using porous, or thirsty, concrete in walkways throughout the park. The new concrete, called Flexi-Pave, is made with stones and recycled tire…
Teach me to feel another’s woe, to hide the fault I see, that mercy I to others show, that mercy show to me. - Alexander Pope Pronounced: woe·be·gone /ˈwōbēˌɡôn,ˈwōbəˌɡôn/ How woul…
Dunraven Pass was closed for a time because of snow in Yellowstone. It was a welcome sight, and will help to put out the remaining fires. Let me tell you a little about the pass. D…
Welcome to our newest citizens! On September 7th, 35 folks from 15 different countries took the Oath of Allegiance at Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone. The naturalization ceremon…
Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent. - Victor Hugo Pronounced: (kuh-NOR-uhs, KAN-uhr-uhs) Let me try one: The canorous sounds of bi…
Here is a Canadian SuperScooper filling up in Jackson Lake. Mostly used to fight Canadian wildfires, this aircraft is also leased to California firefighting agencies for their fire…
The Berry Fire in Grand Teton National Park continues to spread to the east and south. The National Park Service issued a bulletin Saturday morning saying that US Highway 89 and th…
To celebrate the National Park Service turning 100 on August 25th, President Obama has created a new National Park in Maine. This is awesome news. I don’t think we can ever have to…
Uh oh! Don’t move a muscle. The Skunk family is on the loose.…
This is the sweetest story and I had to share it. Leola Reschke turned 108 last week and she had a wish. Her wish was to go to Yellowstone and see Old Faithful. She grew up in Dubo…
I have learned silence from the talkative, toleration from the intolerant, and kindness from the unkind; yet, strange, I am ungrateful to those teachers. - Khalil Gibran Pronounced…
Pronounced: [kuh n-viv-ee-uh l]…
By all these lovely tokens, September days are here. With summer’s best of weather and autumn’s best of cheer. - Helen Hunt Jackson Pronounced: [dih-sij-oo-uh s] https://youtu.be/8…
As much as I converse with sages and heroes, they have very little of my love and admiration. I long for rural and domestic scene, for the warbling of birds and the prattling of my…
By experience we find out a short way by a long wandering. - Roger Ascham No longer will you take semi-aimless walks, you will now be coddiwompling! Yeah, this word kind of sums up…
The sun rising each morn is a beacon of hope for your soul’s new beginning. #15wordsaday There’s something about a fence post. It’s like a wooden, gnarled, weather-beaten time mach…
He who is contented is rich - Lao Tzu This word is Greek, and is pronounced /juːdᵻˈmoʊniə/ https://youtu.be/YB3RNGBn_zw Can you think of a way to use this word? Have a great Wedn…
It is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all. - Laura Ingalls Wilder Pronounced: ver·i·si·mil·i·tude /verəsəˈmiliˌt(y)o͞od/ One way to use it might be, …
I believe in taking chances and living your life. Sometimes doors open and others close and you have to figure out which one you’re going to take. I’m always for the one that’s cha…
The Yellowstone Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is North America’s largest bird of prey. Golden eagles are amazing hunters. It can dive from its flight path at 150 miles per hour.…
Love isn’t something you find. Love is something that finds you. - Loretta Young Sometimes, the brief, fleeting moments can create the strongest, most cherished memories. Pronounce…
I cry when I feel moved by incredible generosity or a connection to someone. We spend so much of our lives being separated. It’s the relief of connection that produces the tears. -…
Hat tugged down, rope pulled tight, through brook and creek, clouded eyesight. Trice of light, screams like a mourner, the squall corrals, and gives no quarter. Trees dance, leaves…
Chaos often breeds life, when order breeds habit. - Henry Adams It’s pronounced (catty·wam·pus) and you can hear how to say it here: https://youtu.be/6KrRYdls2fs How will I use thi…
Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fi…
The mountains are calling and I must go. John Muir was born on April 21, 1838 in Dunbar, United Kingdom. He was a Scottish-American naturalist, engineer, botanist, geologist, autho…
Shut the door not that it lets in the cold but that it lets out the coziness. - Mark Twain This is a Danish word, pronounced ’hoo.guh’ The warm glow of candlelight is hygge. Friend…
If some longing goes unmet, don’t be astonished. We call that Life. - Anna Freud This word is Portugese and pronounced (sou’däd). Here it is on youtube: https://youtu.be/Z2Ors4NpwW…
Is there something we have forgotten? Some precious thing we have lost, wandering in strange lands? - Arna Bontemps The origin of this word is Latin. Pronounced: (səʊˈlɪvəɡənt) htt…
When I was a youngster, I used to suffer from occasional panic attacks. If you’ve never experienced one, I hope you never will. They aren’t something you can explain in any tangibl…
I’m an Amazon affiliate The May issue of National Geographic is out, and it’s all about Yellowstone National Park. Journalist David Quammen writes about the history of Yellowstone …
The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts the sails. - William Arthur Ward I just like saying this word: Williwaw wil·li·waw /ˈ…
The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness. - John Muir Pronounced: (Ne`moph´i`list) I’m most definitely a nemophilist. Are you? =]:)…
Sunlight fell upon the wall; the wall received a borrowed splendor. Why set your heart on a piece of earth, O simple one? Seek out the source which shines forever. - Rumi This week…
This video was shot by Melba Coleman on March 25, of a cougar in Yellowstone near Mammoth Hot Springs, protecting an elk carcass. He or she wants to make darned sure no one comes a…
Courtesy is the one coin you can never have too much of or be stingy with. - John Wanamaker Prozvonit is Czech. "My best buddy is a lovable cheapskate, so he prozvonits me almost e…
It’s one of the largest cats in North America, and a top predator. It’s the Yellowstone cougar (puma concolor), also known as the mountain lion. Unfortunately, in the early 1900’s …
Amy Smith and Annie (Smith) Jackson - See the whole show on Wyoming Chronicle - Wyoming PBS. This is a rather beautiful video. The views are spectacular, and the music is sweet. It…
Every spring, the National Park Service in partnership with the National Park Foundation (the official charity of America’s national parks) brings us National Park Week. And to cel…
The way to love anything is to realize that it may be lost. - Gilbert K. Chesterton This word is Japanese. I think I’ll be able to use it this week. Have a great Wednesday everyone…
Go fast enough to get there, but slow enough to see. - Jimmy Buffett I hope you have a great rest of the week! And if you have nothing to do, don’t scuddle around like a chipmunk l…
When you visit Yellowstone, your chances of seeing Elk ( Cervus elaphus ) is pretty high. In the Summer months, Yellowstone is home to about 10,000 to 20,000 elk in 6 to 7 differen…
Hope is the only bee that makes honey without flowers. - Robert Green Ingersoll Have a nice Wednesday and the rest of the week! =]:)…
a poem about finding your way back You are lost and alone, your inner light has gone dim, the world seems so dark, angry and grim You look up to the heavens, but the stars aren’t t…
You’ll find Grotto Geyser in the Upper Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park. Grotto Geyser is actually part of a group of geysers that include Grotto Fountain Geyser, South Gr…
I took this photo last Fall, and it took me back to childhood and the adventures that seem kind of silly and naïve now. We looked into the distance and saw the sun streaking throug…
The art of simplicity is a puzzle of complexity. - Douglas Horton As the movie of your life unfolds, you are the "main character." All the people around you are "extras" in your pl…
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I love hiking. I do it whenever I can. There is nothing better than being out in nature, breathing fresh air and getting sunshine. If you hike in Yellowstone, you need to be bear a…
a poem about natures calming hand I stand atop the world, arms out at my sides, a world stretched out below me, and yet the world hides. The din of shouting voices, and disharmony …
I think you will like this one if you are a fan of wolves like I am. This is a short video, and an intriguing one based on a scientific study. In the video, you’ll notice the narra…
a poem about true, unconditional friendship when the world ended, i fell to the floor, tears rolling down, the future tore. heart in my throat, my jaw felt weak, you held me tight,…
We are not makers of history. We are made by history. - Martin Luther King, Jr. Pronounced: http://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/pronunciation/english/epoch Some other uses for this …
The Yellowstone Otters are a treat to see any time of year, but they are particularly hilarious during the winter season. Watching them "swim" through the snow is a treat you will …
Yellowstone is home to quite a few species of owls. I’m told 11 species, but I include the Barn Owl, so I’ll say 12 species in all. Owls are nocturnal, so seeing one in Yellowstone…
It was July 4th in the summer I turned 13. Like most July’s in Wyoming, it was hot and dry, so I spent the day at the lake swimming with friends. I noticed Cynch was acting a littl…
“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter, and those who matter don’t mind.” ― Bernard M. Baruch This one is pronounced, (mona.chop.sis). Did that …
This beautiful Bobcat is prowling for ducks along the banks of the Madison River near the Madison Campgrounds. The Yellowstone Bobcat (Lynx rufus) is one of the more elusive animal…
"I don’t like a lot of frills and fusses" - Nancy Reagan This one is pronounced: foo·fa·raw /ˈfo͞ofəˌrô/ . I know a few folks I will introduce to this word today. So many people wo…
“There is peace even in the storm” ― Vincent van Gogh I love a good thunderstorm, don’t you? The sound of the thunder, and then the rain on the rooftop. It usually lulls me to slee…
There is nothing stable in the world; uproar’s your only music - John Keats So, let’s get this thing going again! I hope you are all having a good new year so far. I think this yea…
The cat could very well be man’s best friend but would never stoop to admitting it. - Doug Larson My name is Pete, and I have a confession to make. I love cats! There, I said it. T…
Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storm, but to add color to my sunset sky. - Rabindranath Tagore So, how would we use this word? How about someth…
Suppose you were an idiot, and suppose you were a member of Congress; but I repeat myself. - Mark Twain Well, that just about covers all of them, doesn’t it? This word is fun, alth…
Here are a couple long forgotten words that I think we should bring back. Most of us are familiar with stocking stuffers or stocking fillers at Christmas, but why not call them few…
O, wind, if winter comes, can spring be far behind? - Percy Bysshe Shelley Psychrophilic is an adjective and pronounced: psy·chro·phil·ic \ˌsī-krō-ˈfi-lik\ One of the neatest thing…
I have learned silence from the talkative, toleration from the intolerant, and kindness from the unkind; yet, strange, I am ungrateful to those teachers. - Khalil Gibran I don’t wa…
[Of howling wolves] Listen to them — children of the night. What music they make. - Bram Stoker This word is also an expression of strong emotion, typically grief and it’s pronounc…
I suffer from Griffonage. If I write a grocery list for someone I have to decipher it for them first. The word first appears in a book of 1832 by Frances Trollope, mother of the no…
I noticed some of my friends are doing #Nanowrimo . If you aren’t familiar with what that is, it stands for National Novel Writing Month. It’s an international initiative that enco…
Since Halloween is close, I thought this would be a good word. It’s pronounced, [than-uh-top-sis]. Spooky! Boo! Have a great Wednesday everyone. =]:)…
This word was suggested by + Lucie Paris . She said something about using this word a lot after speaking to me. Since this is a French word, I have no idea what she was talking abo…
Or words I guess. I took this photo because of the trees, but also because of the fall foliage at the base of the trees. It reminded me of an English country garden. Or what I imag…
My friends’ son was having trouble with a bully. We are doing what we can to help him along while trying to let him work things out on his own. A tough balance. Not sure we are doi…
When folks visit Yellowstone, one of the hopes on their bucket list is to see bears, especially Grizzlies. Over the years, a few bears have become rather famous around here. Their …
Our pets are like family... no, they are family, and leaving them behind can be a hard thing. You’d love to have them along on your trip to Yellowstone or Teton park, but can you b…
I know a few cynophilists! I keep trying to show them the wonders of cats. They just plug their ears though. Hmph. Have a wonderful Wednesday!…
🎵 A Change Is Gonna Come 🎵 Changes come into our lives all the time. Instead of bracing yourself you might want to let it wash over you instead. Change can be good in the long ru…
Smiles are nice, but only if they are genuine. Do you agree? Of course you do! Have a wonderful Wednesday everyone. Can Friday be far behind? I hope not. =]:)…
I know a few brabblers. I bet you do too. Have a wonderful Wednesday everyone and go easy on the brabble. =]:)…
Like with all endeavors, practice makes perfect. So keep on writing! Now go out there and have the best Wednesday you know how to! Well, go on!…
We stood in the clearing, by the sandy shore of the calm lake, taking in the wonder with our disbelieving hearts and eyes. The majesty of the trees, rising into the sky like spires…
Redamancy! Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we all had reason to use a word like this more often? Like...everyday even? Yes it would! Have a wonderful hump day Wednesday everyone. =]:)…
This word was first used by John Locke in a 1692 publication. He wrote, “I fear, that the jumbling of those good and plausible Words in your Head..might a little jargogle your Thou…
A few memories celebrating Mother’s Day I was thinking about what I wanted to post in honor of Mother’s day this morning. I looked at some beautiful photos and quotes. Still, my mi…
Rain is wonderful anytime, but rain at sunset is always special. The water sparkles from the setting sun, looking like fire diamonds hitting the ground. And as the day is ending, t…
This is the perfect word to describe my life lately. How about you? LOL! Have a wonderful Wednesday!…
When everyone else’s spark is going out, I bet you are the one that re-lights their way? Right? I knew you were. You have always been the light in the darkness. Keep on shining bri…
I know this word well. How about you? Happy humpday Wednesday everyone. =]:)…
From now on, if I’m being difficult, please don’t call me quarrelsome or contentious. Those are so boring! I will be known as WRANGLESOME . Can you remember that please? See that y…
The perfect word for when you want to send them the very best... by special delivery. I bet you know someone who could use a little Backpfeifengesicht, don’t you?! Of course you do…
Ah! What is more romantic than moonlight reflecting on water? "Come with me, my love and lets gaze at the moon as it bathes the water in it’s light." "That’s gumusservi, darling." …
This is how I imagine + A Long . Before I met A.J. I didn’t read many poems. That soon changed after I discovered his inspirational, fun and thought provoking poetry. Soon, I was r…
Let’s splash in some puddles! Actually, if I tried that right now I’d get cut on ice. Pffft.…
Every day is the beginning of your new year I don’t make resolutions on January 1st. If I want to change something about myself or improve an area of my life, now is always the bes…
Back in high school, a few of my friends suggested we chip in and go skiing for Christmas instead of spending it at home. No adults to tell us what to do. Wonderful! I got permissi…
You might say this word is...enlightening. =]:)…
I love a good thunderstorm, don’t you? Of course, this word may also refer to someone who has indigestion, no?…
When everything is moving and shifting, the only way to counteract chaos is stillness. When things feel extraordinary, strive for ordinary. When the surface is wavy, dive deeper fo…
Last week was a mother of a week. I haven’t talked about it, other than with one person on G+, but I want to talk about it a little now. I have a buddy who I consider to be one of …
Pracillian Pernicious sits on a bench, contemplating her lot in life. Wherever she went, she made people regret; her gaze would cut like a knife. But why, she pondered, can they no…
I hope you all had a nice weekend. I did, and it’s one I’ll remember for a while. The weather was wonderful, so a few of us decided to go do some horseback riding. It was nice seei…
It’s raining here tonight, and big puffy rain clouds are hanging out in the sky. The stars aren’t shining down on me tonight. I hope they are shining on you. Early this afternoon, …
When the stars come out and shine so bright, when the owl says "who" in the darkness of night. And the moon starts to glow with his happy face, it’s time to go to that magical plac…
The greatest gift of life is friendship, and I have received it. - Hubert H. Humphrey Pronounced: /lanˈyap,ˈlanˌyap/ https://youtu.be/muPeonpHuZk The word entered English from the …
A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance. - King Solomon Pronounced: [blahyth suh m, blahyth] I hope you find many reasons to use this word in the coming year. =]:)…
Sometimes it’s the journey that teaches you a lot about your destination. - Drake Pronounced: /ˈvāɡərē/…
I ’m high maintenance, but I’m worth it. - Lara Logan Pronounced: [ˈʃulit]…
o be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. - Ralph Waldo Emerson This word is Hebrew and pronounced [ fEr-’gOn ]…
The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. - Edmund Burke Pronounced: /ˈTHänik/…
The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. - Eleanor Roosevelt Pronounce it like this: ash-ling This is an Irish word.…
Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage. - Lao Tzu…
Any place can be enchanting, if you decide to see it.…
There are no secrets that time does not reveal. - Jean Racine This word can also refer to hidden feelings, gloom and being sorrowful.…
If in our daily life we can smile, if we can be peaceful and happy, not only we, but everyone will profit from it. This is the most basic kind of peace work. - Nhat Hanh Pronounced…
One of the reasons people hate politics is that truth is rarely a politician’s objective. Election and power are. - Cal Thomas…
" A kiss is a secret told to the mouth instead of the ear; kisses are the messengers of love and tenderness.” – Ingrid Bergman Pronounced: /kætəˈɡlɒtɪz(ə)m/…
This is incredible and will put you into the holiday spirit. I just love this! It’s actually an ad for Marks and Spencer, but you wouldn’t know it. It’s heartwarming, magical, and …
Alright folks, I’ll be up front. This is kind of a tearjerker. It’s also heartwarming and very well done. Please though, if you think it might bring you down, don’t watch it. If yo…
These are wolf tracks in snow.…
The CP Holiday Train program launched in 1999 and has since raised more than C$13 million and four million pounds of food for communities along CP’s routes in Canada and the United…
Sometimes I feel like I live in a snowglobe.…
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When it gets extremely cold here in Yellowstone, the trees take on an eerie look, especially at dusk, and we call them, "ghost trees." When the rime from hydro-thermal mist accumul…
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The stars twinkle like snow in the sunlight, and the snow glistens like stars in the night sky.…
Wandering in nature when I’m troubled or worried calms me and gives me perspective. How about you?…
Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul - and sings the tunes without the words - and never stops at all. - Emily Dickinson…
I know three friends who will really love this one. + Lucie Paris + Nina Anthonijsz and + Deidre Huff all LOVE snow AND camping. How can I go wrong with this combination? This is t…
Many a calm river begins as a turbulent waterfall, yet none hurtles and foams all the way to the sea. - Mikhail Lermontov…
Now a soft kiss - Aye, by that kiss, I vow an endless bliss. - John Keats…
Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better. - Albert Einstein…
The sun is new each day. - Heraclitus…
What a wonderful view. You could really get in touch with yourself here, on top of the world.…
When we pulled out into the winter night and the real snow, our snow, began to stretch out beside us and twinkle against the windows, and the dim lights of small Wisconsin stations…
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