From the Cold to the Sunshine

view of the mountains on our last hike; it feels otherworldly up there

It's been interesting traveling back and forth between the cottage and the cabin.  The weather is SO different!  I wear sun dresses and sandals at the cottage.  The roses and zinnias are still in bloom.  The artichoke plant from last year is coming back to life.  The hanging baskets are colorful with pink geraniums in bloom.  I love sitting out in the sunshine on the porch.

Lula takes herself up to bed early

Meanwhile, back at the cabin,  I have a fire in the fireplace constantly.  I close off the lower living room and kitchen, and the rooms become warm and toasty.  The heat rises, and by the time I go to bed, the bedrooms are also comfortably heated, without turning on the gas heater.  

I went to an interesting seminar on safe hiking at the local hardware store in Wrightwood.  It was excellent information.  I have been carrying a backpack now when I hike.  It's so important to pack identification, warm clothes, water, matches, first aid supplies, your health insurance information, and food.  You just never know what will happen. You can also help other people in need if you run into them along the way.  

Chris, the man who gave the lecture, works in search and rescue.  He told us that many people just go out hiking with nothing, and they end up lost, or in the dark without a compass, map, or knowledge of where they are.  It can happen really quickly this time of year.  Once I got disoriented on a hike in New Mexico.  I had just moved there.  I ended up asking my dog, "Where's the car?"  She hiked straight down the mountain.  I was all confused and turned around in my mind.  In actuality, we were just above my guest house, but I couldn't see it, because the incline was so steep.  What a close call.

Chris told us to have a flashlight,  as well.  The older I get, the more conservative I become.  I also carry pepper spray and a rod iron bar.  Hiking boots with well defined tread make a big difference, too.  I have some snow boots on order.  They're made in Canada, so I'm sure they're excellent quality.  I have a feeling it is going to snow soon.  I can smell it in the air; it reminds me of my childhood in Seattle.  We shall see...

What do you take with you when you walk or hike?

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