merlin

Thanks very much, George!

Sweet smelling and loved by bees. X-T2, 90mm f/2

X-T2, 90mm f/2 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

https://500px.com/merlinemrys

A far more stringent test today. The beginning of the trail is a long, steep, and relentless descent with very rocky underfooting. Rather strenuous, and nasty tumbles await the unwary. I speak from experience. But the new boots were more than up to that challenge, glad to say, as well as the steep ascents that followed. Warm enough for shorts and tee shirt, and being out in Nature was joyous and fulfilling. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Here are the new boots.

Wore new hiking shoes in the Nature Preserve today. Despite a bit of apprehension, they worked excellently, in terms of stability, grip, and cushioning. We even did a bit of off-trail exploring, clambering over rocks, across fallen logs, and up and down a few slopes as part of the testing process. Definitely keepers. The wind was rather icy, though, so thermal wear was needed, but the sun, deep blue skies, trees, rocks, and vistas were magnificent. X30 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

X-T2, 18-55mm Mountain Juniper Storm Coming In

Although a bit dicey in more than a few places, going alone off trail definitely boosted my confidence. Fortunately my physical condition was up to the challenge of the steep ascents, descents, and tricky footing, since no one was going to come and rescue me. Visiting new areas is always a treat, and this was no exception. The stillness, deep blue skies, and incredible rocks and trees were food for the soul. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

X30

11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16.

Just a Pile of Rocks An amazing off-trail adventure in the Nature Preserve, on a tee shirt and shorts day. We explored a new route that was very strenuous, including quite a bit of rock climbing to ascend to just below the cliffs. And we climbed up the rock chimney to the top of the mesa, definitely an experience of rebirth and emerging into the light. The incredible soaring rock formations, trees, and vistas were breath-taking. The wonders of Nature, together with the stillness and solitude, deepened and expanded perspectives and consciousness. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Took a different route on our off-trail hike today. Quite warm for early March, but the winds were quite chilly, so it was a shorter excursion than usual. The expansive feelings and vast vistas were especially rewarding. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Thanks very much!