Climb Every mountain ford every stream, follow every (highway, byway, pathway, rainbow) till you find your dream. A lofty endeavor, to say the least, but still worthy of contemplation and action.  One of my efforts for the summer was to get plenty of sunshine and exercise for the purpose of wholesome health.  In our area three expansive open spaces have been set aside and dedicated by previous owners so that some mountain space will remain forever open; not available for commercial or residential construction. The trails and loops on these open spaces range from 3 to 5 miles in length and may take up to 3 hours to hike depending on the rise in elevation and the terrain. One open space may be accessed a mere 300 yards from my cabin, so I am quite familiar with it. Last week Andrea and I hiked to the very top of Meyer Ranch Open Space on a trail marked, “Old Ski Run.” From the rocky crown we could see miles in every direction.  On Thursday we prevailed on Philip to leave his website construction and join us.  Bypassing Beaver Ranch Open Space (because they were setting up for Mountain Music Festival) and focusing on Reynolds Park, we persisted in choosing ascending trails until we reached a plateau named Eagle’s Crest. The view to the West (toward the continental divide) was absolutely stunning. We returned home simultaneously refreshed and fatigued.

I’m so glad I did that!  On Friday I was offered a new ½ time job as music specialist at an area Core Knowledge School. Meetings and work began in earnest this last Monday, so I am glad I  had experienced one last Colorado Rocky Mountain High before summer activities came to an abrupt close.