I've spent the last 12-days here at Keyhole State Park north of Moorcroft, Wyoming. I've really enjoyed the view and the weather, but not so much the daily broadcast of a 70's rock n roll radio station from camp host... And when I say daily, it's playing from his outside speakers for at least 6 to 8 hours starting around 11am. I generally approach life with a no shame attitude and support everyone's right to fly your freak flag at all times. This wouldn't bother me so much if he was actually outside enjoying the music, but it plays constantly whether or not he's outside his rig. Generally, my experiences traveling so far have been overwhelmingly positive, but it's not always sunshine and rainbows out here in the road. Looking at the bright side, I did enjoying hearing 'Stairway to Heaven' the first half dozen times or so it played in rotation.
I built a nice big fire one evening and once the radio went off had an incredible evening just listening to the birds, the geese trumpeting and the wind rushing through the pine trees.
I had forgotten the sound of the wind
High in the pine trees like winds across wings in a slow decent
Played on the trumpet of geese above the sputter and crackle of the fire
I also saw some beautiful birds while here. I don't have a great lens for wildlife, but I was able to capture this picture of a gorgeous bluebird. I also saw several pair of yellow finches and also a magpie! I wish I would have been able to grab a shot of the magpie, because I don't recall the last time I saw one. They are so striking with their bold, bright white stripes.
Nosey, my feline familiar, has had a bit of a rough time adjusting to life on the road. For the first 6-weeks or so she sheltered in her cozy cat house that came with her when I adopted her several years ago. I'm happy to say she has once again abandoned it and has discovered the giant window, aka windshield, which is her favorite spot to spend her mornings while I work.
While we've been here she started to scratch at her neck and managed to remove all the fur from the front of her neck and developed a sore from the scratching. I called the nearest animal clinic in Sundance, Wyoming and spoke to Eunice. She was very kind as I explained what was going on and promptly explained that it was cattle season so the vet was out at the ranches on most days. I did get her in to see him and got her on some antibiotics. It's likely stress or allergies. The sore has healed up nicely in the last few days so that is great news!
Well, I've finished my first cup of coffee while writing this so it's time for a fresh cup of coffee and then I'll start the trek to Montana. I have about a 5-hour drive today. I'm stopping for the night at a really interesting Harvest Host location for the night. I hope you are all doing well and finding some joy in unexpected places.