Because it was getting too hot in the desert I moved up in elevation to enjoy a second Spring into Summer. And now it’s getting warm here at almost 5,000 feet so will be time to move up again for yet another Spring into Summer.
I’ve been spoiled during my stay at Mary’s, treated well and frequently fed, power, and even a cool guesthouse to shower and hide out reading during the heat of the day. And it got warm a few days last week pushing 90°F outside and more in the camper.
When I realized this is almost the very last of my hibernation/isolation/distancing, I wanted to savor it. So I’ve been even lazier than the previous four months in the desert. I spend a large part of the day on the computer, writing, working on photos, answering emails, and way too much time on Facebook.
Photography has been pretty much sunsets.
In addition to a change in environment and temperature, following Spring into Summer offers some new flowers and birds. (Iris, Lavender, Iris; Verbena, unidentified, 4 O’Clocks)
Javelinas wander past which I’m used to from Yarnell.
And then there’s more marvelous Arizona sunsets where it changes so fast it’s not easy to keep up.
Columbine along the Wagoner Road
I went shopping with Mary in Prescott, the biggest town I’ve been to in many months. Traffic wasn’t as bad as I remember but Costco was a zoo. They have signs that state, “Members must wear a mask to enter the store.” Bullshit! Only a little over half of the customers and staff wore masks. Shoppers were much closer than six feet. Couldn’t wait to get out. Other stores were about the same. Doesn’t demonstrate that people have learned distancing. I find it’s hot to breath with a mask on.
Word from B&B is the replacement propane tank will be delivered in Congress early this week. I’d say it’s about time after messing with this for a year.
We’ve all had ups and downs this year, yet all in all, I’m thinking it was a good winter for me to heal and regroup. Now, 8 1/2 months after breaking my wrists I am feeling physically healed and ready to return to the job I love as a Park Ranger. My official start date is May 10th, that’s when I move into Bryce Canyon National Park. The following day I will report for duty, in a mask, receive paperwork, find out what my duties will be—different than business as usual—and self-quarantine for 14 days while teleworking from my RV.
Bryce actually opens under limited services May 6th. I can go into the park and hike but not in uniform. I’ll be polishing up some new program ideas and who knows what else. I am ready to return to Park Ranger life, though practiced differently than in the past. I’ll try to keep you updated while working a 40 hour week.
So, now it’s once again time to move on and up in elevation for a third Spring into Summer at Bryce’s 8000 feet. Hope to pull out mid-week with a stop near Flagstaff for a picnic with a friend and a night or two on the North Kaibab National Forest near Jacob Lake (and maybe a cookie).
Sounds like you have just been in the most perfect place with Mary, it is very beautiful around that are it appears from you photos. Of course you sunsets as always are superb. Just a pleasure to view. We are of course this month enjoying you Saguaro buds and flower on the calendar, what a pleasure. Stay safe and keep well. Presume you will be moving into the big RV once you move back to Bryce. Diane and Nigel
It’s been delightful here. Guess I’m going to miss the Saguaro flowers this year. I will eventually move back into the 5th-wheel.
More great sunset pics, beautiful. Hope you have a hassel free move. How ’bout #4755 for Friday. Thanks.
Thanks. I head out from here Friday. #4755 for this week.
Spring into summer is the best season. One year, about now, we were traveling from the California desert and got into a huge migrating mass of butterflies. We travelled with them all the way through Utah and up into Idaho and of course they were following the wildflower bloom. So, a perfect trip. I bet you Mary’s beautiful garden has lots of butterflies. There was a story in the news about Bryce. The ranger, (Peter?) was discussing how the critters are out and about in Bryce like never before. How exciting for you.
As far as the virus goes, it feels like there are two realities, us over 60 who die from it and the rest of the world who are just irritated by the disruption in their lives. St george is full of out of state vacationers who can’t recreate in Nevada or California.
What I have done, is learn how to shop for groceries on line, then go pick them up. A lot of us do this, and drive through pharmacies. Smiths, Harmon’s, Albertsons, Lin’s, Walmart we have our choice.
I am looking forward to your adventure.
Wow! That must have been awesome to see all those butterflies. There are some flitting around here but very difficult to photograph. Yes, I heard Peter talk about the wildlife. Can’t wait to return. I leave here Friday. Rather sad to think about all those out of town people in St. George. Though I hope to get there myself sometime this summer.
I look forward to coming to visit you and Mary Thursday.Your pictures are beautiful as always. And of course, I will miss you when you leave the area. You bring me lots of laughs and can’t wait to see some of those movies.You are a natural comedian and my funniest friend.
Me too, I’ve missed you. You can always come visit me at Bryce.
You make my place look super nice. Love the pictures. I am glad you are comfortable here. Safe travels when you leave on Friday. I look forward to Thurs. when Joann comes.
Thanks, but that’s because your place Does look nice and I am grateful to you for the hospitality. I too look forward to see Joann and will miss you all.
Nice seeing Spring to Summer so many times.
Glad that your wrists have healed without complications.
I’m certain you’ll enjoy the warmer but not hot temperatures when you return to Bryce for the summer.
Be Safe and Enjoy the change of scenery.
It’s about time.
I do love the multiple Springs. And with temps rising into the mid-90s this week, I’m ready for higher elevation.
I’m interested to see how the parks plan to handle people this summer. With so few making the effort to wear and keep on their masks just going to the grocery store I don’t trust than “polite” expectations will be followed with enough regularity to be safe. I’m so glad to hear you’re all healed and ready to take on the world again. Your pics are gorgeous as always, you’ve found some lovely places to ride out this storm. Mary’s garden is magical.
Yea, I’m just not sure what will come down in the parks. I too see the lack of attention to masks and distancing. I have mixed feelings about getting back to work, but will be happy to get the pay check.
Mary’s garden is lovely complete with the unique metalworks. Very nice path to travel for 3 Springs & Summers with the bonus of visiting some friends! Replacement propane tank and healed wrists are all positive achievements. And oh my….a couple nights on the North Kaibab. One of my most favorite places. Positive energy to an easy Bryce transition for you. I realize now that I think I saw you at the North Rim once. Maybe I will meet you in person at Bryce this coming season and enjoy one of your ranger programs. Safe journey!
I am looking forward to the North Kaibab, a favorite place for me also. Considering I worked 10 summers on the North Rim you could have seen me there. I do hope travel is safe enough for you to visit Bryce.
Some great sunset views! I know ‘rangers are paid in sunsets’, in that case you deserve a raise!
Looking froward to your pictures of Bryce.
Thanks. Could you please talk to my boss about that raise.
Hi Gaelyn, Glad to hear that you have enjoyed your time during isolation, My favourite time of the year is Spring and early summer here in Crete and it’s the best time for the garden also. I just love those beautiful sunset photo’s and seeing the lovely flowers. The swifts and swallows are here at the moment by the dozens, so nice to see them darting in and out from underneath gutterings building their nests. I am so pleased your wrists are better and you can enjoy your job when you return to Bryce.
Thank you. Hope you are having a lovely spring. I’ll bet your flowers are marvelous. I love to watch the swifts and swallows flit about and their nests are amazing.
I have this visual of you traveling up and down based on the weather. Instead of north and south like a snowbird.
My sister is on standby to find out when to report to Yellowstone.They have lots of housing issues to figure out.
Made me smile. I do go north and south a little bit. Yes, housing in parks is a challenge. Glad I have my own. Wish her luck, or suggest a RV.
Won’t Bryce be cold when you arrive? A few years ago, Mary and I went the second week of May for our birthdays, and it was freezing! We stayed in a little motel in the park near the rim. I think that yellow cluster of flowers is Senecio – there are several varieties. I love your photos – the sunsets are gorgeous, and Mary’s garden so beautiful. Even the javelina looks like a welcome visitor just passing through. Here it’s still winter into spring, though we’ve had snowmelt when the days get above freezing. Last night it was in the 20’s. (I can see you shivering, Gaelyn!) Take care of yourself and stay well.
I suspect you’re right. Although Bryce has recently been experiencing days in the 70s nights are cold. I will be plugged in with heat and mostly inside. I appreciate your concern. Last year it snowed on Memorial Day. Thanks for the flower ID. Stay well.
Your photos are amazing. I’ll say it again!
I hope you get the vehicle sorted out.
Mary’s garden is lovely. Thanks for sharing it. Good luck next week!
Thanks. New propane tank is working like a charm all day.