Natural Images by Sally Vennel

FINALLY SOME WINTER IN THE MOUNTAINS

2012-01-08T11:34:00.010-07:00

We have been back in Crested Butte, Colorado for a month, and I have completely neglected my blog, partly because of the many Holiday and pre-holiday activities and partly because of what the following photos reveal.

Almost no snow!! The weather has been beautiful, clear blue skies, spring like temperatures (for the Rockies) part of the time, and skies full of stars at night. Who could ask for more?? The skiers!!

We now have bus service to our part of Mt Crested Butte, and I was beginning to appreciate it and the spring-like weather,

The Mountain though did a very good job with snow making and grooming (though we weren't taking advantage of it during the Holidays.) From our home we could see the half-pipe and watch the feats of the young snowboarders and skiers as they performed their maneuvers.

However, this morning we wakened to a different sight.

Our yard was covered with about 5 inches of fresh snow.

Snodgrass Mountain and Gothic in the background had a beautiful coating of white.

And the dried wildflowers and grasses in our yard had donned white hats.
Time to shovel the driveway!!

NOVEMBER ALREADY!!

2011-11-21T13:05:00.001-07:00

Now that Thanksgiving is almost upon us, I am finally thinking back to the first weeks of November and decided to post a few images. As usual November weather was very changeable with a few warm sunny day interspersed between the fog, the clouds and Nor'easters.

Early mornings often had beautiful sunrises as the clouds passed through on their way to sea. And the Goldenrod and October Daisies were in full bloom, causing problems for those with allergies to the pollen.

The Monarchs, though were attracted by the blossoms as they passed through in great numbers on their way south.

The sandpipers accumulated by the ocean edge to store up on food in preparation for their migration.

Pestering this lone gull by their numbers he felt required to squawk his protest.

But as the waves came in the lifted off the sand en masse to find a better spot.

As the evening approached the fishermen appeared to try their luck under the darkening clouds.

NOVEMBER COMNTINUES ON OUR ISLAND

2011-11-21T12:27:00.016-07:00

As the month goes on, and the storms come and go -

We get some spectacular sunrises. The old adage holds true - "red skies at night, sailors delight, red skis in the morning, sailors take warning.

The shells accumulate on the water's edge.

The Cormorants join the migration south.

The waves increase in size leaving nice islands of sand,

For the Herring Gulls who winter here.

They are left to follow their own pursuits, watched by the occasional mother and child - and photographer.

The wind leaves interesting patterns in the sand at the base of the dunes.

The bay, covered with whitecaps, even at low tide throws spray over the bulkhead,

and drops waves onto the narrow beach.

But back at out house the holly tree, dug out of the pine lands nearly 70 years ago is covered with berries. It survives despite hurricanes and yearly trimming by the trash truck when we don't get to it.

Though most of our annual flowers have succumbed to the wind and salty air, the snapdragons have decided it is not yet time to give up the ghost, and bloom again.

OCTOBER ON LONG BEACH ISAND

2011-11-19T19:22:00.002-07:00

I have been very neglectful of my blog of late, no real excuse laziness and some pleasant distractions. Enjoying several of my friend's photos and comments on their blogs have re-inspired me, so I decided to go back a month when our daughter was visiting. After our trip to the Chesapeake and the safe retrieval of the boat from Cape May where we left it as we drove home to beat the approaching bad weather, her time on the island was nearing the end. Asking what she wanted to do on her last day she responded, go to the ends of the Island.

It was a cloudy day and signs of fall were appearing in the foliage near the lighthouse in Barnegat Light at the northern end.

Golden rod appeared several places between the rocks of the jetty.

As we walked along the inlet to the beach on the ocean the light peeped through the cloud cover in a array of soft pastel colors.

On the return trip, while my daughter walked the rocks, I cut across the sand to capture this shot of Barnegat Lighthouse behind this concentration of goldenrod.

Back by the lighthouse the October Daisies were in full bloom

HOLGATE IN OCTOBER

2011-11-19T18:53:00.014-07:00

Holgate, the southern end of Long Beach Island is always much more deserted that the northern end. Most of the area is closed during the summer as it is a bird sanctuary during the nesting season. This time of the year it is practically empty, except for the ever present gulls that is.

As the tide receded on this afternoon it left interesting patterns in the sand at the water's edge.

Away from the ocean the remains of wind blown trees stand testament to the severity of nor'eastern storms.

The tire tracks of the occasional fisherman's jeep remain long after the catch has been taken home.

The small dunes at the edge of the nesting area showed a bit of the color of fall with the bay visible in the background.

Walking back along the waters edge we met a small group of Amish people, probably visiting from Pennsylvania, enjoying the beach. They were almost the only people we encountered on our long walk.

There is nothing as pleasant as a walk on a nearly deserted beach in the fall after the crowds have departed.

BACK TO THE CHESAPEAKE

2011-10-21T10:59:00.002-06:00

We have tried to make a boat trip to the Chesapeake every fall, some years with more success than others. Weather is always the main factor, last year we didn't make it at all.

This year on the first leg to cape May, on a relatively calm but overcast day, we were treated with a wonderful sight, a first for me in this area. We came upon a large pod of Atlantic dolphins with many young, moseying their way along the surface.

It appeared to me that this mother was teaching her baby the joys of life in the sea.

Arriving in Cape May for a night at the Marina, the fish1ng fleet was at dock for the holiday.

From our slip at South Jersey Marina we had a great view of the commercial boats.

As we watches as a large flock of Boat-tailed Grackle arrived to perch on the lines. I wondered what the decks looked like the next day.

That evening the fleet lit up the water and made a beautiful sight.

The next morning as we waited for the sun to come out behind the clouds and the boats remained at rest,

I took one last shot of our "Snow Goose".

ON TO BALTIMORE

2011-10-21T10:56:00.002-06:00

Finally getting underway, Chuck was happy to be back at the helm. Looking ahead at two rainy days, he decided to head to Baltimore where there would be plenty of things to do, rain or shine.

Heading under the bridge on the Cape May canal this Great Blue Heron chose to ignore us.

I always enjoy looking at the shoreline of the canal and the homes that boarder on it. This old gazebo took my eye as I had missed it on previous trips.

After a choppy trip bucking the current up the Delaware Bay and River, I was happy to finally reach the C&D Canal and pleased to see some early fall color in the trees there.

Arriving at the Inner Harbor Marine in Baltimore in the afternoon we settled in and found a good restaurant for dinner. The next morning we took off on foot to walk the waterfront, always a pleasant way to spend the day.

A visit to this replicate of the Chesapeake Bay Lighthouses is a good stop.

I had never noticed this Blue Crab near the Acquarium, perhaps it was new.

I appreciated this sign outside Dick's Dock Restaurant bragging about its award as "Baltimore Most Beautiful Eyesore".

The Constitution remains at an inner dock awaiting visitors.

As the rain began to fall on our way to the Science Museum we took shelter the the Visitor's Center with the Big Pink Poodle greeting us near the entrance. We spent the late afternoon at the movies watching "Money Ball" a really good movie.

BALTIMORE ON

2011-10-21T07:18:00.030-06:00

We wakened our 3rd day in Baltimore to a light drizzle and heavy fog.

The Domino Sugar sign reflected eerily across the water. As the weather was predicted to get worse in a couple of days we decided to leave and head for Rock Hall on the Eastern Shore, a relatively short trip across the bay.

Leaving Baltimore we were accompanied by a lot of sailing ships as there was to be a race held later that morning further out on the bay.

After an uneventful trip, with our sharp eyed daughter watching for crab pots, we worked out way up the river to Haven Beach Marina.

The helpful, but whimsical dock master gave us a slip next to a boat of the same name. The couple, who were on their way to Florida's west coast when they were sure of a spell of good weather, spent their summers here at the Haven Marina.

The facilities at the Marina were very nice, but unfortunately they were already closed for the season. There was a swimming pool, tennis courts, restaurant, and bikes at the exorbitant price of $5 an hour. Since we had to go in town for lunch, it would have added $40 to our lunch bill, a bit much for "off season". We talked them into an hour free and Chuck and I picked out our bikes while my sister and daughter began walking to town.

First we watched the ducks bathing in the water.

Then we picked up our bikes and rode into town for lunch,

Detouring a bit to see some of the fall decorations done by the locals.

Back at the Marina for the afternoon we had a period of sunshine, perfect for photos of the tall masts against the blue sky.

At marinas I am always fascinated by the different ways skippers tie their boats to the cleats - some neatly, some not.

And by the names they bestow on their favorite toy.

Some are a very clever play on words.

Some leave you wondering about the true meaning.

We had a wonderful dinner that evening at the Swan Point Inn down the road and it included transportation both way. There we met a couple who were at the Inner Harbor Marina in Baltimore with us. A small world!!

The disintegrating weather on the way we left early the next morning to return to Cape May. After another rough ride down the Delaware, bucking the tide again, we entered the Canal just before the ferry left the dock.

THE DAY BEFORE IRENE

2011-08-31T10:49:00.003-06:00

The day or so before Hurricane Irene was scheduled to arrive on the New Jersey coast, having already battened up the house, stowed away outdoor furniture, trash cans, flower pots etc, I got out early with my camera.

Of course my first destination was the beach where the sun had just come up.

Then I hopped in my car, before stowing it in the garage for the duration of the storm, to take what I thought would be my last picture of the causeway shack. I had already planned a name for the shot I would take after the hurricane - "Good night Irene".

I then walked around the neighborhood to see what people were doing before complying with the mandatory evacuation - we had already made the decision to stay. Our neighbors behind us were taking a last dip in the outdoor Jacuzzi.

Or out with camera, as I was, after measuring the beach to see how much sand we would lose.

Carol Freas, our friendly artist and barber was trimming her husband's hair. Chuck, my sister and I immediately got in line.

And the shop at the corner was already boarded up in preparation for high winds.

As were our friends on the ocean front.

Later that day I returned to the beach to see what was happening to the beach replenishment as the sky darkened and the surf increased. This cliff had been created by the high tides,

And was gradually being breached by the waves.

As the surf gained strength huge plumes of salt water and sand were thrown up into the air. I decided it was time to leave.

Looking back, there was still plenty of beach in front of the dune fence. I would wait to see what Irene did.

IRENE AND AFTERWARDS

2011-08-31T09:21:00.018-06:00

After spending the day glued to the TV while working on a jigsaw puzzle, and an amazingly good night's sleep, we went to a friend's walkway by the ocean to assess the damage.

At first light we could see that the ocean had come up and broken some of the dune fence.

Going back a short time later we could see that it was still doing so.

The bay at the end of the street was churned to a fury,

And water covered the street. Damage in Surf City was non-existent and we never lost electricity or water. Later we learned that the eye had broken apart before reaching our island and the storm had been downgraded to a tropical storm with gusts no higher than 55 mph, a typical winter nor'easter. We really dodged a bullet - not so with a good part of the East that is suffering with massive flooding.

After the storm the sun returned by 4:00 in the afternoon prompting a beach walk. The jettys (groins) which had been covered by sand had reappeared.

The rocks were still covered with barnacles, though now quite dead.

The waves threw up interesting plumes against the blue sky,

and sprays of mist as they collided with the off shore winds.

Long buried sand reappeared to create patterns on part of the beach

The surfers returned in large numbers,

And exited the ocean with big smiles.

When the sun shone on the ocean spray it created a rainbow of colors.

This shop owner said it all with his newly written message. All we "Islanders" are very happy to be safe, and very sorry for the in-landers who are still struggling with their after effects of Hurricane Irene.

P.S. The Causeway Shack still looks the same.

A MORNING WITH SANDY SANDY ON LBI

2011-08-19T17:41:00.003-06:00

The other night I received a very welcomed call from Sandy Sandy, a wonderful artist and photographer who I see too rarely. She had a new camera and lens and wanted to come to the island early in the morning to try it out on the beach. In preparation I took a quick walk to on beach to see what I could see.

This fisherman was really getting into spirit of the sport in going after the fish - if the waves don't get him first.

The June beach replenishment, which I documented on an earlier post, covers the jettys for the time being, and took away a source of food for the gulls. This lone gull found one newly exposed rock complete with muscles.

The beach was speckled with the occasional moon jelly fish which if stepped on was very slippery.

These four little girls scared -

These four sandpipers which took off over the waves. There were photos to be had.

However, the next morning we decided to head first to the light house at the northern end of the island. Though the light wasn't very good, someone had gone to the trouble to arrange rocks into a heart and peace sign.

This young father was out on an early walk with his young children following, while, as he told me his wife got to sleep in late.

After admiring some of the flowers by the light house on the way to the car, we decided to head for the Viking Village, the home of most of the commercial scallop and fishing boats on the island.

Having taken many pictures of the fleet on other days, my eyes when to this colorful pile of nets on the dock behind one of the boats.

And on the boat itself these shredded lines were still wet with water, though the largest droplet at the bottom of this strand dropped off before I got my camera out and focused.

On the bay side of the docks the grasses picked up the sunlight as the sky cleared momentarily.

THE MORNING CONTINUES

2011-08-19T17:00:00.014-06:00

Leaving the Viking Village we headed south towards the other end of the island, looking along the way for an interesting entrance to the beach. The replenishment and new walkway made it difficult.

I suggested we stop at the Surf City Yacht Club to see if anything might be going on there - it wasn't. However the view of the causeway bridge is always good from the waterfront.

The sunfish fleet lay idly on the shore -

And the American flag and Yacht Club burgee were just being hoisted up the yardarm.

Moving down the island on the ocean road, we continued to look for an interesting beach entrance at the end of the streets - finally stopping at this one.

The walk over the dune was worth it, providing this view of the ocean and beach as I remember it before they "replished" our beach. Ours will surely return to "the way it was" after a few good storms.

Though the sun was now higher in the sky, the dune fence still provided some interesting shadows.

Reaching the end of the island at Holgate, Sandy continued to work with her new camera. Check out some of her photos on her blog - http://sandysandysweblog.blogspot.com

As we were heading back to the car I spied this hurriedly parked little girl's bike along with her shoes. I am sure her feet were already deep in beach sand.

REMEMBERANCES OF COLORADO WILDFLOWERS

2011-08-10T14:58:00.002-06:00

Now that we are back at the Jersey Shore, to beautiful weather I might add, my thoughts return to the wonderful 3 weeks we had in Crested Butte, Colorado. The saying out there is, "people come for the winter, and stay for the summer" - and this year, especially, it is understandable why.

Our first morning in our Colorado home we were greeted with this spectacular view of the wildflowers and Red Lady Bowl at the top of Mt Emmons.

But our first chore was to stock up of cat food for our 4 legged family members necessitating a trip to Pet Smart in Montrose. On the way to Gunnison we encountered a cattle drive, a common occurrence here in the mountains.

On the way to Montrose we were impressed with the Height of the water in Blue Mesa. With the melt off of the big snow pack of last winter and the heavy rains of the early summer, it was filled to the brim.

In fact it had overflowed to the other side of the road creating lakes of clear reflections.

Back in Crested Butte the Slate River had deposited new "sand bars" from the early fast run-off.

The horses across the street were in heaven with luxurious grasses and wild flowers to munch on during the afternoons and evenings.

But they still came in willingly each morning to get their special treat of oats before the day of taking riders up on Snodgrass began.

Lucky horses - a corral with a view!!

A bit further down the valley these fortunate horses were saved from a glue factory by a local rancher for $1 each (with probably many more $$$ in vet bills). They arrived starving and in poor health but have been regaining strength feasting of the nourishing vegetation of the Gunnison Valley, and some have already been adopted.

A DAY IN HEAVEN

2011-08-10T14:54:00.003-06:00

Our first full day back in the mountains, I took a little walk around our home. Adjusting to the change of altitude from sea level to nearly 10,00 feet is not as easy as it was several years ago.

But one doesn't have to go far to enjoy the beauty.

We have been trying for years to re cultivate the native wildflowers in our yard. Many, including this Mountain Aster are doing well.

From the lot next door the variety of flowers was amazing.

In fact, we were surrounded by wildflowers.

Having put out the hummingbird feeders. This aggressive male decided decided to claim the one closest as his own, and expended a lot of energy flying from his "guard tree" to keep competitors away.

This house wren though appeared unperturbed -

Even when a Colorado bluebird came to visit.

Nothing fazes this chipmunk - who can always find enough to eat this time of year.

MORE VIEWS FROM NEAR HOME

2011-08-10T14:44:00.012-06:00

Getting up early in the mountains has its own rewards, (besides it is often difficult to sleep when first at altitude).

Often the balloons are in the sky for an early trip.

The first bike riders are heading up the path on Snodgrass.

The flowers become back-lit by the rising sun.

When the sky is clear everything sparkles at high altitude. The Fireweed frames the distant mountains.

And the golden carpet of Sunflowers contrast with the blue sky.

While close-up they take on character of their own.

The near flowers hide the activities in the corral across the street.

But the best day to get up early was the day of the Crested Butte Alpine Odyssey (the Leadville 100 qualifier). Lance Armstrong lead the race on the 2nd lap of the 60+ miles over the mountains as they turned the corner at the head of our street to race up the mountain and down to the finish line.

A SHORT HIKE UP OH-BE-JOYFUL

2011-08-10T14:33:00.001-06:00

Having been in the mountains for a week, and being finished with yard work, we decided on a short hike up "Oh-Be Joyful" to see the waterfall.

On the way up the valley, we again commented on the exceptional greenness of the mountains this summer.

The wildflowers were profuse and

Snow still remained on the mountain tops, in August!!

The creek ran heavily down the valley carrying logs and depositing them at will.

The falls were full and fortunately void of kayaks. A huge log span the creek just below the falls.

Looking up the valley above the falls one could see the mountain peaks, and a distant large waterfall.

The way back to our car provided this special view of Mt Crested Butte near home.
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OUR LAST DAY IN COLORADO

2011-08-10T12:49:00.030-06:00

On our last day in Colorado, we decided to take a last hike part way up West Maroon where I heard that the flowers were still good.

Driving out Washington Gulch Road we found that the "Mountain Men" were amassing for there yearly outing.

Topping the Paradise Divide the lake was as smooth as glass.

Though the Glacier Lilies were long gone by this time of the summer. we found a few Elephant Heads still blooming by the water.

Starting up the path towards Schofield Park I found the old cabin more a pile of rubble than I remembered from my last hike this way several years ago. It is reminiscent of the clam shack on the causeway to Long Beach Island in NJ.

The Indian Paintbrush and Colorado Columbine, though past their prime, were still beautiful.

The path lead uphill through an ever changing array of wildflowers, sometimes as high as the waist.

We had a snack and talked to hikers coming from and going to Aspen, and a few who we knew who were out for shorter hikes like us.

Coming down I took a detour to grab a shot of the stream.

The water hurried over large rocks creating small falls,

And over colorful pebbles brought down in past years.

Re-tracing our route to the top of the Paradise divide, My husband stopped the car so I could grab another shot of 2 of my favorite flowers, the Colorado Columbine and the Rosy Paintbrush.

Leaving the Pass behind I could look back at the stream, still clogged in places with snow, and the aptly named Cinnamon Mountain.

Descending the valley Crested Butte Mountain again appeared in the distance. Another great day!!

SURF SITY BEACH REPLISHMENT

2011-07-28T09:25:00.004-06:00

We have been back in the Colorado mountains for a week and a half enjoying the cool mountain air and the incredible array of wildflower. But before I get into that I decided to post a bit of what was happening at the New Jersey Shore. Beach replenishment seems the be the buzz word along the Eastern coast. The Corps of Engineers did it about 3 years ago on our beach during the winter, and in doing so they tapped into a dump of WWI and WWII arsenal several miles off our shore. They managed to deposit over a thousand pieces on our beach, and then spent a year digging them up and disposing of them. This time it was done a bit differently. The source of new sand was the "Harvey Cedars Lump". a great fishing spot about 2 miles off our shore. For a while it had been renamed by the locals as the "Harvey Cedars Canyon".

This barge traveled to the site about every 2 hours, filled up with sand and then brought it in and pumped it through large pipes laid under water and along our beach,

The sand was sifted through a "hopper" which strained it of potentially dangerous materials.

As the tractors moved the sand, gulls arrived by the hundreds to get another free meal from anything edible that was arriving with the sand.

When the Hopper showed clean water, the pumps on the barge were turned off, and the real work began on the beach.

The Hopper was turned over and inspected as the barge returned to sea for another load.

JULY 4TH ON OUR BLOCK IN SURF CITY

2011-07-28T08:53:00.016-06:00

Our block in Surf City has been celebrating our National Holiday for at least 40 years with a parade followed by games on the beach for children or all ages. Over the years the attendance and participation has grown enormously,

The colors are Red, White and Blue, and costumes are encouraged.

And sometimes little 4 legged creatures join in the fun.

And of course whole families.

The beach activities begin with the singing of our National Anthem and the pledge of allegiance to our flag, things too often overlooked in our present day society.

The games on our new wide beach are for kids of all ages, but some of us are now content to just cheer on the contestants.

The barrel race is always a highlight,

As is the Tug-A-War, boys against the girls.

Of course, the girls always seem to win, sometimes with a bit of help from the larger, stronger males.

The games always culminate with a pie eating contest for the children.

And hopefully with a swim afterwards.

To add to the spirit someone even decorated the old shack on the causeway for the July 4th Holidays.

VENICE - DAY 1

2011-06-20T14:34:00.003-06:00

We are back in Venice, Italy after 4 years. The last time (and 1st time) was for our 50th anniversary celebration. A lot seems different. First of all we miss our traveling buddy of 4 years ago, Carol Freas!! Also I don't remember this many people last time, which was only 2 weeks later, but I hear that June is the time most people head for the beach.

Even the canals were crowded.

We decided to do different things than we had our previous visit to Venice. Our first walk from our hotel to the Academia bridge we pass an art display of American characters, most of which I dare not display on the internet, but this particular statue grabbed my attention.

We crossed the Grand Canal on the Ponte de l'Academia to the area known as Dorsoduro, and to the waterfront on the other side. In particular we had two things in mind, recommended by our representative of VBT who we met briefly the evening before. One being one of the 3 remaining boat works in Venice where Gondolas are still built.

Another was her favorite ice cream spot called "Da Nico" which of course we managed to locate. But also we saw many more beautiful canals, and the waterfront.

Walking to the end of the "island" we saw part of the reason for the large crowds, especially in the St Marks area, which we had left as soon as possible. Standing at the tip. enjoying the view and resting our feet, we were passed by a huge cruise ship (not our way to travel, yet).

As we watched it pass we noted all the people standing on the top deck watching us, or at least enjoying their last view of Venice.

Walking back along the shoreline of the Grand Canal to find the Vaporetta stop to catch a ride to San Giorgio Island, we passed this amazing wood carver's shop where all the furniture and clothes hanging on the walls, umbrella included were carved of wood.

Arriving on Isola di San Giorgio we had a nice light lunch near this light house with many beautiful boats near by.

Our objective was the top of the bell tower of the Cathedral from which we were told was the best view of Venice.

Our information was not wrong. (My photos are many, but here is one.)

VENICE - DAY 2

2011-06-20T14:32:00.002-06:00

Our 2nd full day in Venice was a Tuesday, the day of the fish and vegetable markets, so we decided to experience them.

Leaving our hotel early we found our way to the Rialto Bridge, dodging young men pushing carts to deliver goods to stores and restaurants. We decided employment must be plentiful in Venice with no cars or trucks available to do this job. We got to the bridge in time to see this large boat loaded with water and beer pass beneath it.

The vegetable market was not a disappointment, it was a colorful display of bright and fresh vegetable and fruit.

These melons looked enticing,

As did these beautiful tomatoes, a rival of our wonderful "Jersey tomatoes".

The selection of fish was endless as one might expect in an area completely surrounded by water.

Scallops were on nearly every stand,

And flounder, a favorite of mine back home in New Jersey.

But this large, ugly fish is one I would not like to encounter in the sea, or perhaps on my dinner plate either.

This swordfish was gutted and ready to be cut up as the supply of steaks on the stands diminished.

Leaving the busy markets, we spent quite a bit of time looking for the "Cantina do Mori" which dates back to 1462 and was recommended by Rick Steve as a great place to buy Cicchetterie (light snacks like Spanish Tapas) and fine wine.

There was no place to sit, but the locals kept coming in for a quick snack and drink before going back to work, and of course I had to snap Chuck's picture in front of a few of the very old bottles of wine.

After a day of walking, and a very disappointing and expensive drink at Harry's bar, we had a lovely early (for Venice) dinner at an excellent restaurant, Caravelle back near the St Mark's area.

THE BIKING TRIP BEGINS

2011-06-20T14:28:00.002-06:00

After a week or more of not being able to get back to my blog, our biking is over, safely, and we are in a wonderful hotel in Verona with internet access. So--here I am again. We left our Venice hotel by Vaporetta, boats being the only means of transportation in that water city, and were met near the airport by a luxurious bus for our 2 plus hour ride to Cortina.

Snapping a few pictures from our bus, I got my first view of the Italian Dolomites.

A part of the Alps, they were beautiful and rugged, but I was reassured by the rating of this trip as "easy" and I hoped that it lived up to its rating.

We passed areas of farmland and vineyards where Italy's reputation for fine wines and fresh vegetables was upheld.

Traveling through the valleys past red roofed villages we traversed roadways suspended high above the rivers on the valley floor.

Arriving at Cortina we checked into our beautiful Hotel Ancora in the heart of the city, and lunch at a local Pizzaria, getting to know some of our fellow bikers. This was the view from our room, could any place be more beautiful??

The next few hours were consumed with VBT's orientation, getting our bikes, which were very new, and taking a short check out ride up a hilly bike path. I was hoping this was not the way our EASY trip would be, as our guide, Elana patches up the first few scrapes.

OUR FIRST DAY OF BIKING

2011-06-20T14:25:00.003-06:00

Our first full day of biking dawned clear and bright as we left our 4 star Hotel Ancora in Cortina, a beautiful town in the heart of the Dolomites. Cortina hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics, many world cup events and was the site of several motion pictures. Much of the '63 classic "Pink Panther" was filmed in Cortina, as was the stunt scene in James Bond's "For Your Eyes Only" with Roger Moore on skies being chased by gunners on spiked-wheeled motorcycles, and several scenes in the film "Cliffhanger".

We rode mainly on bike paths through beautiful green valleys and mountain towns.

We passed near this ski jump which looked intimidating even from a distance.

Occasionally we had to stop to check our maps and refuel.

And of course snap a picture of a distant church nestled in the mountains on the edge of a village.

But for me always, the most compelling thing was the incredible beauty of the mountains.

This made me a slow biker as I stopped frequently to snap a photo. My wonderful husband tolerated this and would stop and wait.

The clouds began to move in as the weather disintegrated and the scree fields on the mountains looked like pink snow.

Our riding paths though followed an old railway path which was started in 1916 during World War I to connect Cortina to Calalzo (our destination) for military purposes. Following a very bad accident in 1960 a bus replaced the train, and today the track is used as a bike path in summer and a cross-country ski trail in winter.

We finally arrived in Calalzo where our guides were creating a picnic "lunch", near a lovely alpine lake.

While they prepared, we had time for a glass of wine in the restaurant by the lake, as did our new friends, 2 couples from Colorado.

In spite of a drizzling rain, lunch was a huge success after which we were bussed back to our hotel - a perfect first day.

That night from our hotel room we were given an extra treat when I put my camera to our window.

DAY 2 IN THE ITALIAN DOLOMITES

2011-06-20T14:19:00.003-06:00

Our last morning in Cortina we awaken to a beautiful blue sky, which unfortunately didn't last long. Mountain weather!!

The first option that day was to ride up a 8.7 mile mostly gravel bike path to the top of the pass, or take the bus. I, along with several other women, decided the easy out of taking the bus. It was the right decision for me, as we had barely gotten to the top when the heavens opened.

However while waiting at the hotel for our ride, I snapped a shot of this beautiful old heater in the lobby. which fortunately for us was now only used for decoration.

Thinking that I might get some gorgeous mountain view from the top of the pass, I was disappointed as the weather changed.

The mountains tops were cloaked in clouds.

However we were fortunate to have the van as shelter from the rain and a small cafe for coffee as we awaited the wet bedraggled bikers.

The ride down the other side of the pass, "Passo di Cimabanche", offered new scenery, and a change of the signs which were now in both German and Italian, as German is the first language there.

At the bottom was the Dolomite Nature Park with a view of the "Tre Cime di Lavaredo", the best known mountain group in the Alps.

In the Val Pusteria Valley we cycled along the Rienza River where I saw this man trying his luck.

Arriving at San Candido for lunch we locked our bikes by an old church wall and explored the town by foot. This home certainly showed the Austrian/German influence.

As did this beautiful church.

We enjoyed lunch at a friendly restaurant, and sampled the best Tiramisu I have ever tasted, presented with pride by the owner.

After Lunch, we continued on to Monguelfo where we met the van,

And had our bikes loaded for the ride to our next hotel - an easy day for me.

BIKING THE TURES & AURINA VALLEYS

2011-06-20T14:15:00.002-06:00

Leaving our hotel this morning we headed by bike towards Brunico through the Aurino and Tures Valleys. It was an easy ride since it was mostly flat, passing small hamlets, cattle farms,

And high mountains dotted with slope hugging castles.

Being early for the planned Barbecue lunch, we had time to bike the relatively short distance to Campo Tures, translated as "sand of the Taufers" which is a mostly German speaking town very close to Austria. In the town square we encountered this gentleman reading the local paper, a beautifully executed statue.

Nearby, these fanciful gnomes decorated one of the many shops.

The main attraction of the town though was this impressive 13th Century Medieval Castle.

Our lunch place, in a beautiful setting of woods by the Riva River was a special barbecue prepared by our host Mani.

It consisted of a variety of tasty meats and crisp vegetables, home made potato salad, wine and a wonderful German strudel for dessert.

Could one ask for anything better, though getting on our bikes afterwards was not easy.

Our afternoon ride continued mostly following the Rio Aurino river, past beautiful little villages and countryside.

At the end of our ride we found the van to shuttle us to the town of Brunico. It was a colorful town busy with hikers and bikers and wonderful little shops.

And of course, the most important shop, for a glass of water and a gelato - there is always room for that in Italy.

Passing by a sporting goods shop I couldn't resist photographing these "climbers" (not real of course) scaling the wall.

And of course the steeples of the town church.

BIKING RISCONE TO CHIUSA, DAY 7

2011-06-20T14:12:00.001-06:00

After a good night's sleep in our Park Hotel Schoenblick lovely room we awaken to this pleasant view from our window.

After a nice breakfast we met our guides, Claudio and Elana to see which comedy act then had for us in our morning lecture and instructions.

We rode our bikes a pleasant 23 kilometers down out of town and through the countryside following the Isarco River past this castle in ruins, Fortezza Rio Pusteria. There some of us met the bus for transportation to the Novacella Abbey.

Arriving at the parking lot we crossed this covered bridge into a different world.

The Abby, founded in 1142 by the Bishop of Bressanone, is a huge complex on many Gothic style buildings. The grounds are filled with flowers, green grass, and ivy covered walls; the hillside with fruit trees and vineyards.

The Church is magnificent decorated in Bavarian decor in white and pastel colors.

From the Abbey we cycled to the nearby Medieval town of Bressanone with one thought in mind, besides lunch that is - the famous Italian Gelato.

Bressanone, with its central clock tower and colorful shops and outdoor restaurants was a nice place for a quick lunch.

Before re-boarding the van we had a few minutes to enjoy the river as it flowed by the town.

On the way to our next hotel in Merano we had time for a short stop in Chiusa with its cobblestone streets and paths.

OUR LAST DAY WITH OUR BIKES

2011-06-20T14:05:00.004-06:00

Our last day with our bikes was special from morning to night. We were taken by bus from our new hotel in Merano up to Lake Resia, an artificial lake created when a dam was started in 1940.

Along the way we passed mountains adorned with waterfalls,

Green Vineyards by neat homes,

And numerous castles.

Arriving at the lake, which flooded an existing village, the top of the 14th century church tower was visible above the surface of the water, a reminder of all the people who were forced to relocate.

We took the time for a group photo before starting on our long downward bike journey.

The bike path took us through quaint villages and rushing streams too numerous to show here,

Past castles and a child's birthday party procession, with the "princess" in a decorated wagon.

The journey was fun and exhilarating, and ended at the town of Glorenza where we were to have lunch.

Glorenza was a lovely little medieval town built within high walls.

Homes were built right next to the stone walls, that were topped with a covered walkway.

We found a wonderful restaurant on the town square, and lingered much too long over a delicious lunch.

The clouds were building as we emerged and we hurried to reclaim our bikes to peddle the rest of the way.

We made it to the train station at Laza just as the lightning and thunder began, and we were happy to board and get out of the weather. However, arriving back in Merano we had a long walk in the pouring rain to our hotel, and were glad of a hot shower before dressing for our farewell dinner.

We were transported to the Rametz Castle just outside of town, a wine growing estate dating back to 1227.

In 1860 the first Blauburgunder grapevine in South Tyrol was planted here.

We toured the private museum filled with old tools.

And visiting the wine cellars with our host and owner Stanislav Schmidt, we were able to taste the fruit of their vineyards.

As we left to board our bus after a delicious dinner, the sun can out to lighten the surrounding mountains, promising another beautiful day in the Italian Dolomites.

MERANO, ITALY

2011-06-20T13:58:00.004-06:00

As with every other day in this beautiful part of Italy, it has been difficult to choose from my many photos which few to put on my blog.

When walking out the front door of the Hotel Terme Merano, this is the view that greets you.

The Passirio River roars right through town, at least this time of the year. We decided to spend what little time we had here exploring the Sisi Gardens, just a few blocks from our hotel.

Sisi, so called by her husband, was Empress Elisabeth of Austria and queen of Hungary in the latter part of the 17th century. She often visited Merano and made an important contribution to the development of this health resort.

Entering the extensive part which extend along both sides of the river on several levels, the first thing we saw was this tree house. My husband would have loved to play in it as a child.

The view of the river is ever present, and is always beautiful

After crossing a bridge at one point, we found this giant "Chia Figure" of Atlas holding the world.

The flowers were beautiful, everywhere,

After a several hour walk, we re-entered the city of Merano where the gardens continued, even more beautiful if possible.

My husband was glad that we wouldn't be staying for the fair which was being set up.

But I did appreciate the mimes who were already working the square.

And I will not forget my last look at the river of Merano, as we leave for our last two days in Verano.

VERONA - DAY 1

2011-06-20T13:55:00.042-06:00

Our first day in Verona we did what I am sure every other tourist does -

Visit the Roman Arena. It is the 3rd largest of those remaining and the best preserved. The building itself was built in 30 AD behind the city walls, and was so famous for the shows and games staged there that people came from afar to witness them.

Today it is internationally famous for the large-scale opera performances given there.

Climbing to the top of the Arena gives one a wonderful panorama view of the street below.

The vaults beneath the stadium are in excellent condition, partly due to the perfect system of hydraulic drainage which leads away any water filtered down into it.

And or course no visit to such a place would be complete without a Gladiator.

From the Arena we found our way to the Castelvecchio on the Adige River. The huge manor house with a mighty crenelated bridge was built by the Della Scala family in the 14th century. Built to carry out its function of defense and war its towers, courtyards, & passageways intersect and cross over communal walls and Roman fragments. This "3 clock tower" stands guard over the main entrance and moot.

The wide, spacious courtyard, once a parade ground for troops, is surrounded by solid walls dominated by mighty towers.

After vigorous restoration begun in 1957, the castle now houses the Civic Museum and what is considered the most interesting art collection in all of Europe.

The bridge as with the castle itself was built of solid and uniformly red brick.

The view of the Adige River and surrounding countryside from the bridge and castle wall is truly beautiful.

Walking back towards our hotel I saw in a restaurant window what has to be the biggest drip candle(s) I have ever seen.

The Plaza Delle Erbe is the most celebrated and animated areas in all Verona. It is surrounded by beautiful buildings, the most beautiful being the Municipal Chambers and the Fountain of Our Lady Verona with has run continuously for over 200 years. The statue is Roman from the IV Century and the fountain on which it rests was created in 1368

The Berlina, which stands at the end of the fruit and vegetable stalls under white umbrellas, already existed in the 13th century and the Praetorians sat under it for the swearing in ceremonies.

The gate constitutes the western facade of the city wall and was built between 50 and 40 BC and was the main entrance to the city.

The street in this area are span by series of high bridges joining buildings on either side.

The old Della Scala Family home, now the Seat of the Prefecture, began in the 12th century but was only completed in the 14th century.

There is a elevator in the tower which allows one access to the top of the tower. From that height a view of the entire city is possible,

And in the distance on the hill of San Leonardo the sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes can be seen

No day in Verona qould be complete without a visit to Juliet's home, made famous by Shakespeare's love story, Romeo and Juliet.

From this perspective both her statue and the famous balcony can be seen.

Evidence of the popularity of this site are the walls on either side of the entrance to the courtyard. Lovers of all ages traditionally leave a written sign of their visit as a token of their feelings.

VERONA - LAST DAY

2011-06-20T13:54:00.025-06:00

Our last day in Verona began, as usual with a wonderful breakfast at our Hotel Accademia. What a way for the day to begin

We sought out the Basilica of Saint Anastasia, the largest of its kind in Verona. Its superb Gothic construction was started in 1290 but was only really concluded almost 100 years later. Even though the facing was never completed in the upper section, the facade proudly displays its double-opening ogival (bullet shaped) portal in polychromatic marble. The church boasts a majestic apse in red brick and an extremely high bell-tower.

The famous holy-water fonts, this one the fat hunchback, are taken to represent the workers of the nearby water mills on the Adige River

This one is the thin Hunchback.

Some of the original frescoes remain,

And the church interior is rich in color.

Leaving the church and heading to the Ponte Pietra, our way was blocked by hordes of young people celebrating (we assumed) the end of the school year.

Reaching the bridge was saw the much toted group of pad-locks. Traditions says that they are left by lovers who throw the key into the river as a token of the eternity of their love.

Also there remains a remnant of the original Roman bridge that was first built on this shallow point of the river.

Crossing the River, we found our way to the Roman Theater, its primitive structure dating back to the first century BC under Augustus.

Built near the center of the Roman city it was constructed as a semicircle cavea laid into the hollowed out side of the hill. In order to prevent the seepage of water from within the hill the builders left a deep gap between the theater itself and the tufa underneath. Despite being over 2000 years old the theater is still used today for performances.

The area above the theater, a former convent, houses many of the most important treasures of Roman Verona and was well worth the visit.

This view from the convent/museum grounds looks back at the Pietra Bridge over the Adige River and the more modern section of Verona.

At the end of the day, heading back to our hotel, we passed this statue of Paolo Veronese, a painter who decorated many Palaces, and villas of the Nobility. He was a son of Verona and a major painter of the 16th century Venetian school,

My last photo in Verona was of this restaurant that we passed on our way back to the hotel, but did not enter. It sums up some of the delights available in the wonderful city.

MESA VERDE

2011-05-14T15:17:00.014-06:00

Now that we are back at the New Jersey Shore, and far away from this beautiful place I am finally getting around to posting some of my photos from Mesa Verde.

Within the last 65 million years the Colorado Plateau & Rocky Mountains were formed by a series of uplifts raising the area now named Mesa Verde almost 8,000 feet above sea level. Ancient streams carved through the gently sloping land creating a 1,500 foot escarpment between it and the nearest La Plata Moutains.Within the last 65 million years the Colorado Plateau & Rocky Mountains were formed by a series of uplifts raising the area now named Mesa Verde almost 8,000 feet above sea level. Ancient streams carved through the gently sloping land creating a 1,500 foot escarpment between it and the nearest La Plata Moutains.

Around 600 A.D. people moved into the area and built pit houses on the top of the mesa.

They dug into the ground and built their shelter above with pole and mud roofs and walls with entrances through the roof. In the center of the main room was the fire pit where people did their cooking. A stone slab was placed in front of the fire pit to keep the air circulating - both deflecting cold air the drawing the smoke up and out.

Many "pits" have deeper dug cavities or antechambers which were uses for storage of food and firewood.

Over the next several centuries pit houses were built atop older "homes" and as the population grew due to the good farming land atop the mesa villages began to be formed with 2 room dwelling and a kiva.

Sometime during the next several hundred years, for whatever reason, the people began to move from the top of the mesa to the alcoves in the canyon walls. There they build intricate structures as exhibited by the "Square Tower House" which can be seen from an overlook

From Sun Point more than a dozen Cliff Dwelling can be seen. Between the years A.D.1200-1300 half the population of the Mesa lived here. From here also can be seen the Fire Temple, which was probably used by people from all over the Mesa for ceremonial celebrations.

Next to it is what is called the "New Fire House", an "apartment" cliff dwelling in upper and lower alcoves connected by a hand-and-toe hold trail chipped into the rock. These were strong active people with a life expectancy of only 30 some years.

Another dwelling that we were able to visit later was the "Oak Tree House."

Across the canyon could be seen the top of the Sun Temple, a large "D" shaped structure excavated in 1915 and believed to have been constructed for worship.

Though never finished, every stone in the nearly 1000 feet of finely masoned walls was carefully pecked on the surface & geometric designs were inscribed on the surface of some.

Looking through a window in the 4 foot walls, one could see some of the interior construction.

MORE FROM MESA VERDE

2011-05-11T09:57:00.022-06:00

In December of 1888, two cowboys looking for lost cows on the top of the mesa came across this view (though in much worse condition) of these amazing ruins on Chapin Mesa and called it The Cliff Palace.

Cliff palace is the largest ruins in the park with 150 rooms and 23 kivas and is thought to have been the social, administrative site with high ceremonial usage.

Being able to tour these ruins with a ranger is a special treat, and I believe the best of the park.

In this large kiva there was a passageway where the priest could enter from above, as well as a small passage to the adjacent kiva.

Looking over the top of a kiva one could get an idea of how large this palace actually is.

And looking up inside one of the towers you could see, faintly, the remains of the decorations painted on the smooth plastered surface.

Our last tour, before the rain and hail arrived was the Spruce Tree House near the Archeological Museum.

It was a self guided tour, though we were greeted by this lovely park ranger who was keeping the ground in tiptop shape.

The Spruce Tree House is the 3rd largest dwelling and was constructed between 1211 & 1278 AD. It has 130 rooms and 8 kivas and was thought to have been the home for 60 to 80 people.

Spruce Tree House is also the only underground, intact kiva that is open to the public. We certainly intend to visit this area again. There are some wonderful hikes and other ruins that time and weather did not allow us to visit.

SNOW IN MESA VERDE

2011-04-25T06:52:00.012-06:00

We took the good part of a week away from Crested Butte to head south to Flagstaff Arizona to experience our grandson, Chris's "premier" percussion concert at NAU, a very enjoyable experience. It appeared at the time that spring was coming to the mountains.

The Pasque flower is the herald of spring in the Rocky Mountains and a friend told me of spotting them by a road not too far south of our home. Of course I had to go and grab some pictures.

However the next day we had a new dumping of a foot of heavy wet snow in our driveway, so we hurried up and left a day early on our journey south. Returning from Arizona we planned on spending 2 night at Mesa Verde, renewing our interest in the incredible Indian ruins located in that "World Heritage Site". (More of that later.) I will say though that we were fortunate, we thought, with the weather in that the rain and fog which followed us on and off all day appeared mostly when we were inside or on the tour bus, and the sun came out when we were hiking.

The next morning, however we wakened to a new sight. Six inches of snow had fallen while we were asleep (shades of Crested Butte).

As we watched the first of 6 deer came out be behind the bushes -

And proceeded to breakfast on the new shoots of the snow covered trees.

As we enjoyed our breakfast in the lodge, they came out for us to enjoy.

And before long the rising sun lit up the surrounding escarpments as the deer went on their way.

LAST REMEMBRANCES OF SAN MIGUEL

2011-04-22T10:58:00.019-06:00

One of my best memories of this first trip to San Miguel is the great party given by our organizer in her lovely rented home, with a view.

This one from the upper deck.

The part with complete with wonderful Mexican food and a Mariachi Band.

The band members were all cousins with beautiful voices and great musical talent.

Taking a last photograph of the beautiful church dome near our home,

We passed the woman hurrying up the hill.

Heading to our last bridge lesson I again took note of one of the interesting wall constructions.

And the colorful paint on the buildings.

With warmer than normal temperature for this time of year this young lady brought out her umbrella.

And here we are with our good friends and partners Don & Cindy Hempel and our instructor, Gary Mitchell. I am not sure that we were the best of students, but he and his wife, Corinne are excellent instructors.

MORE FROM SAN MIGUEL

2011-04-22T10:04:00.019-06:00

Wile wandering town another day to find San Miguel shoes for a friend back home we came across a plaza where TV commercials were being filmed.

This model bride was decked out in her finery. However my husband has not forgiven me for not getting the picture of the beautiful Mexican girl standing near her.

Families were relaxing on benches in front of the church enjoying the sunshine.

Walking back we passed more irresistible doors.

And shops with Mexican works of art,

And colorful shop windows.

After our bridge lesson, yes we did go mainly to improve, or relearn our bridge game, we had lunch with the group in another beautiful restaurant near the park.

I think this was one of the prettiest entrances to a restroom I have seen.

But life and chores go on for those not of vacation. Laundry must be done.

And furiture must be made to sell.

A VISIT TO THE MARKET IN SAN MIGUEL

2011-04-22T09:21:00.008-06:00

When traveling I always enjoy going to the market in a new town or country to see what is different and unique.

This little man led the way.

Here was something I had never seen before, a carved and decorated mango on a stick. It was fun watching the skill and speed with which they did it.

The vegetable and fruits were colorful and fresh.

I only wished I had the time and appetite to sample these.

And of course therse are always items to attract tourists. But I did buy one thing before we left - a little pendant of Lapis stone create and sold by a young couple from Crested Butte. It is a small world after all!!

ANOTHER DAY IN SAN MIGUEL

2011-04-22T08:41:00.010-06:00

On another morning we walked to a lovely restaurant on a beautiful little street about a half mile from our house. Walking on cobblestones I spend more time watching where I put my feet than taking photos.

However this colorful combination of building took my eye,

As did this pretty fountain.

We were passed by this Mexican Cowboy but I didn't get my camera out and turned on in time to get him coming, only going.

Looking back up the street after a delightful breakfast of fresh fruit home made yogurt and granola I spotted the dome of this church which somehow had missed my attention on the way down.

Passing through the town square on the way to the market with friends, the days activities had begun.

Though I didn't buy a doll, a US dollar each allowed me to take a picture of the 2 generations of venders, a tired and somewhat grouchy older woman, and the charming young girl below.

A WEEK IN SAN MIGUEL, MEXICO

2011-04-19T18:57:00.027-06:00

Having spent most of the day helping clear our driveway here in Crested Butte of a foot of wet snow I look back with pleasure to a wonderful recent week in warm San Miguel.

We arrived via van from the Leon airport and our first view of the town on the hill was from the car. We settled into our lovely 3 bedroom home for the week as our house mates got a later flight from Colorado and didn't arrive until that evening.

The living room was comfortable and well decorated with Mexican antiques and reproductions.

The kitchen the well equipped the pleasant as was the rest of the house.

In spite of the well appointed kitchen we walked the few blocks to the town square the next morning for breakfast. The square is dominated by the Cathedral of San Miguel.

Adjacent to the cathedral was one of the towns many excellent restaurants.

And the square itself, the center of many celebrations was shaded by beautifully trimmed trees.

The other sides of the square are filled with businesses, restaurants, and of course places for the local venders.

These 3 young ladies have a bite to eat before starting their day of selling to the tourists.

On the way back to our house this door took my attention, a relic of the town's antiquity.

However, when we reached out street the doors were anything but decrepit.

The carvings were beautiful.

Even when the bottom of the door is below street level.

But the most interesting thing was the amazing nest of wires.

SOME NEAR AND INTERESTING CO. PLACES

2011-03-31T07:17:00.012-06:00

Last month we spent a wonderful 2 days with a group of friends at Waunita Hot Springs, a delightful ranch with a large pool fed by the numerous hot springs in the area. We did some x-country skiing, ate delicious food and had a great time.

On the way back we pass this perfect "Indian Head" Mountain.

We took a detour to the old town of Pitkin, a bustling place in the summer, but pretty much deserted in the winter.

There still remain a few of the original cabins.

Back in Gunnison, we stopped to eat our sandwiches by the Gunnison River and watch the accumulation of Mallard ducks.

The active summer "Water Park" was coated with ice and didn't look like nearly as much fun.

On another day on a drive to Montrose. I snapped this shot as we passed the Dillan Pinacles.

A bit further on the emerging color of spring took my eye.
As "spring" progresses here in the Rockies, we have had an additional 2 feet of snow at our house during the past 4 to 5 days, interspersed with wind, then sunshine. But we are leaving today for a week in San Miguel, where I understand the temperatures are 90 degrees. Maybe when we get back srping will really have arrived in Crested Butte.

A BEAUTIFUL DAY ON THE MOUNTAIN, & AT HOME

2011-03-31T06:29:00.017-06:00

Skiing on the mountain on the beautiful day of fresh snow you could see clearly all of the surrounding ranges.

To the North was Snodgrass with Gothic Mountain peaking from behind.

Further to the East Teocalli Mountain appeared behind the White Mountains of the Elk Range,

And a better view of Gothic, my favorite mountain to photograph.

The trees, loaded with new snow were magical,

And the runs couldn't be more enticing.

Riding back up a chairlift the top of the peak was visible

Arriving home to our yet un-shoveled deck we saw the signs of many visitors.

One brave fellow was waiting patiently in our yard, hoping for a hand-out.

Following are a few images of the red foxes who we help through the worst winter months when the snow is very deep.

We hope that they keep the mole and vole population under control during the easier hunting months.

REMEMBERANCES WHILE WAITING FOR SPRING

2011-03-30T19:39:00.015-06:00

When the snow is heavy and fresh and clings to the trees, the mountains take on a different appearance from a distance.

On a trip back from Gunnison last month shopping for our weekly groceries the mountains appeared white and gray.

Mt Crested Butte appeared eerily from the highway.

Back at home the job again became clearing the driveway.

And the county plows worked on the roads.

Once again our trees became burried in snow.

And our freshly shoveled deck disappeared under fresh snow.

But the mountain views, above the fog, were beautiful.

On the way to the gym early the next morning the frozen rivers reflected the mountains behind.

The icicles hanging from the gym roof reflected the rising sun.

While in town the bicycles were abandon by the coffee shop.

But as we passed Crested Butte Mountain, it bode well for a wonderful day of skiing.

THE BEGINNING OF SPRING ??

2011-03-25T12:07:00.019-06:00

The beginning of spring in the Rockies is different that anyplace else I have lived. One day the temperatures rise to the 40's. the snow seems to be melting fast, the mud starts to appear around the edges of the streets, and the next we are "blessed" once again with 6 or more inches of new snow. A blue bird appears on our railing and I run for my camera, but alas I am too late, he doesn't stay long on this first visit. As I yearn for spring, and spend more time in the gym than I do skiing, I decide to go through some of my recent photos and relive some of the reasons I love it here in, as my friend Sandy calls it "this magical place".

The beginnings of a day in the mountains are as varied as can be. Sometimes the sky and mountains light up with vivid shades of salmon and purple.

Sometimes the colors stay muted in the soft pink tones.

And sometimes the colors stay bright and mix with the blues of the beginning of the day.

If one is awake early enough on a morning of full moon you can capture its vision combined with the reflection of the rising sun on the nearby mountains.

As the day begins the light hits first the peaks of the surrounding mountains, here Whetstone Mountain, and the snow piles on the side of our road.

Red Lady Bowl on top of Mt Emmons turns white,

As does Mt Gothic which I can see clearly from my kitchen.

Across the street Snodgrass does the same while displaying the shadowss created by our house.

The evening sky can be even more dramatic with bright oranges, reds and purples.

Finally the sky can become streaked with blues and deep pinks from the last rays of the setting sun. What a beautiful show of nature we have from our windows.

THE END OF WINTER??

2011-03-25T12:06:00.001-06:00

JANUARY CONTINUES IN THE MOUNTAINS

2011-01-30T09:03:00.009-07:00

January continued in Crested Butte with some very cold weather. Driving to the gym early one morning when the thermometer hit minus 35 degrees. The air was colder than the snow on the ground or the ice on the river causing a lot of fog.

As the sun rose it appeared dimly through the mist,

Barely illuminating the snow covered trees.

Even as the day wore one, gray and white were the predominate colors.

However, thing change frequently in the mountains, and a beautiful sunrise on a later day signaled some beautiful days to come.

While shoveling snow from our deck I witnessed the plow removing the latest snowfall from the half pipe on the slope nearest us.

And across the street the cross-country tracks were being relaid.

I became fascinated by the shadows the sun made on the yet to be shoveled snow as it came through the railing.

THE BEGINNING OF A NEW YEAR

2011-01-29T11:25:00.008-07:00

With the new year came cold weather and a visit from our California son, Keith and grandson Chris, now a Jurior at Northern Arizona U.

We were treated with this beautiful sunrise reflecting off the mountains.

Three generations of Vennels bundled up for some skiing on a very cold day (-35 in town in the morning). (L to R) Grandson, Chris; Keith; my Husband, Chuck; Son, Scott

Chris at "the top of the world" almost, Crested Butte style.

Scott ready to head down on his snowboard.

Crested Butte mountain on a beautiful morning.

FINALLY BACK TO MY BLOG IN COLORADO

2011-01-28T20:56:00.015-07:00

We arrived back in the mountains in early December this year just in time for the first big snows. The weather was unseasonable warm and the snows were heavy, and beautiful, making a good base for the ski area.

The lamp post were decorated and soon capped with a white crown.

The bikes were temporarily idle while the snow came down,

And the trees were burdened with the heavy snow,

Causing a lot of broken limbs in town, and therefore a lot of clean-up to be done.

Back at our house the evergreens periodically shook their branches to free themselves of the heavy burden.

Snow piled high on the bird feeder and the railings of the deck.

As the first bit of blue sky re-appeared we could see the work that lay ahead of us.

But when the sunshine finally came back out and the temperatures dropped under a clear sky, we were again presented with our winter fairyland.

REMEMBRANCES OF THE NJ SHORE IN FALL

2010-12-06T18:31:00.003-07:00

We arrived back in Colorado last night, and tired of unpacking I decided to update my blog with a few of my fall photos.

This Praying Mantis in our garden had feasted well all summer and grown to a good size before winter set in. In doing so he shed his exoskeleton about 12 times.

The Monarch butterflies came through on their southern migration, stopping on the goldenrod for a snack.

Followed closely by the Buckeyes.

The forests on the mainland turned their fall colors.

And the marshes turned golden,

As the water reflected the sky.

The fall winds continued with force churning the ocean into rough waves.

The inlet was treacherous even for large boats.

The bay waters rose isolating the old clam from the land.

The sandpipers that remained huddled near the reeds by the bay to stay warm,

And the gulls reclaimed the beach by the ocean.

OUR LAST DAY AT THE JERSEY SHORE

2010-12-06T18:22:00.003-07:00

The old adage - "red sky in morning, sailors take warning" proved accurate.

The ocean waves built up -

Which delighted the surfers.

As the storm passed we were blessed with a lovely mauve last look at our beach.

THE BEAUTIFUL WAVES

2010-09-29T11:36:00.001-06:00

Late this summer with hurricanes stirring up the Atlantic, I found many opportunities for fun with my camera. I often watch the surfers trying to capture an unusual or interesting shot.

This young man appeared to be climbing the wave as he bailed out on one wave and headed back out to catch another.

At times waves meet and send water high into the air in beautiful spray.

The passing of Hurricane Earl far out to sea brought rough water and beach erosion.

But it also brought beautiful waves.

To capture this wave action is often a matter of patience and luck

MORE WAVES DUE TO HURRICANE IGOR

2010-09-28T10:51:00.008-06:00

When the backwash from the wave at low tide hits another wave coming ashore, beautiful formations are created.

And when a breaking wave encounters a strong offshore breeze things get ever more interesting.

The beauty of the ocean never ceases to amaze me.

How lucky I am to still live part of the year in this beautiful place of my childhood.

In the morning the tracks left by the beach cleaning crews made interesting patterns on the sand.

And the pelicans heading south for their winter home in Florida pass by the sun burning through the foggy sky.

BACK AT THE NJ SHORE

2010-09-27T19:36:00.005-06:00

Returning to sea level after our time in the mountains of Colorado is always a bit of adjustment.

But who can resist the beauty of a rainbow at sunset over the ocean,

Especially when it precedes the rising of a full moon.

However the birds on the beach, such as this adult Herring Gull, are always fun to watch.

This one snagged a large eel from the ocean, watched by a envious competitor.

The sandpipers, as always manage to stay just above the ocean edge and keep their feet dry.

MUSHROOM HUNTING IN CRESTED BUTTE

2010-09-17T08:26:00.012-06:00

Just before we left my friend, Jan took me on a new experience, mushroom hunting in Colorado. I had searched for Morels when we lived in Michigan, but had never had the opportunity to look for the wide variety on good mushrooms that grow in our mountains.

We were accompanied by Jan's daughter, Aspen and family so I was in good company. Katherine Rose got to ride,

While big brother showed his prowess in mushroom hunting.

The Hawk's Wing mushroom I would have passed by thinking they were clumps of mud.

This interesting orange one took my eye,

And these looked entirely like something else.

Mushrooms come in all shapes, sizes and colors - some orange -

And some a beautiful Yellow. But be sure you know what you are eating before you do, because some are delicious and some poisonous.

At the end of the day I cooked these 3 varieties that they knew were delicious, and safe: the Hawks wing, the Chantrelles, and the Boletes - and they were.

A DRIVE TO TAYLOR RESERVOIR

2010-09-17T08:12:00.007-06:00

Near the end of our time in Crested Butte this summer, finally finishing the necessary yard work, we took a drive up to the Taylor Reservoir to see what changes might have occured.

Along the way we stopped briefly to watch rock climbers on the cliffs of Taylor Canyon.

And a fisherman in the Taylor River.

Though the cloud cover was heavy, light still lit the mountain tops in the background.

The Reservoir waters were blue and the flowers in bloom.

The town of Taylor sports many relics of the past, including this old wagon on a rise beh1nd the general store.

VIEWS FROM OUR COLORADO HOME

2010-09-17T07:49:00.008-06:00

Sitting here in our home on the NJ Shore on a rainy day, watching the weather which has become more than just a pastime, I am remembering doing so in Colorado this summer. Here in the fall we watch the progress of the Atlantic Hurricane, giving thanks that we escaped Earl as we keep track of Igor and the one following it. There we were aware of sunrises and sunsets and the progress of rain clouds, which might interfer with the days outdoor activities.

The sunrise can color the clouds a soft pink above the ground fog.

And the sunset can light up the sky in beautiful vivid colors of orange and purples.

But one of my favorites is when the puffy clouds hang low beneath a clear blue sky.

Rainstorms, when they arrive are often preceded by interesting, bulbous clouds.

But when the air balloons are aloft there is still no better sight.

TRIP TO CREEDE, CO

2010-09-04T14:32:00.023-06:00

There is a 50+ woman's organization in Crested Butte called "Butte Beauties" - that I am happy to be a part of. They are beautiful, interesting and active, beyond my ability at this point of life, but I treasure them as friends. There was an overnight trip to the old mining town of Creede just after we returned to Crested Butte and I was delight to be included. I rode with 3 friends through a beautiful part of the state alone the Silver Thread Highway, that was mostly new to me.

On the way we stopped to see this beautiful North Clear Creek Falls, considered the most photographed falls in Colorado, for good reason.

Arriving in Creede before our cabins were ready we spent a bit of time walking around town being welcomed by this sign.

Being an old mining town, the firehouse was located inside a cave.

Next to the fire department was a mining museum built within a cave excavated for just this purpose. The displays were well done and informative.

I always wondered about the bathroom facilities underground.

After getting settled in out cabins we all went for a short hike in in the drizzling rain.

I saw my first large mushroom, a King Bolete - a hint of what was to come in my future. Never having been in CO during the mushroom hunting season it was a thrill.

We also saw a red Penstamin among a lot of familiar other wildflowers from our mountains.

In the evening we all attended a play in the famous Creede theater - known all over this part of Colorado as the best repertoire theater.

After another nice hike the next day the sun came out enough on our trip home to get a good view of the headwaters of the Rio Grand from the top of the pass.

We stopped for lunch in Lake City just pass this beautiful strand of aspens.

And got back home in Crested Butte accompanied by a good afternoob thundershower, hard driving for Malla.

GUNNISON RIVER WATER PARK

2010-09-03T09:44:00.007-06:00

On our way back from Montrose one day, we stopped in Gunnison to see the water park we had heard about on the Gunnison River.

We watched 3 young men in their mini kayaks battling the rapids.

The rapids were created when new boulders were placed in the fast moving water of the river, and the "water park" has become a great attraction for the young at heart, and body. Having watched kayaks battling the rapid in Hungary on an offshoot of the Danube, and the ocean in New Jersey, it was fun to see it in Colorado.

LAKE IRWIN - AUGUST 2010

2010-09-03T06:07:00.011-06:00

Lake Irwin is a beautiful clear lake West of Crested Butte at the mostly summer community of Irwin. The town is accessible only by snowmobile in the winter and up the mountain is a lodge which for years was a favorite destination for cat skiing. Unfortunately, it has been closed for several years and has gone through several owners and unfinished plans for for remodeling.

At one end of the lake is this large rock formation, a gathering place for families.

Leaping into the cold water from its heights is a challenge for young boys, and girls alike.

This lovely waterfall, hidden in the trees behind the rock formation helps feed the lake with the mountain run-off.

The flowers are profuse in the surrounding fields, even without making the climb up to Scarp's ridge above -

And there are always rocks where one can rest.

And we made it back home before the afternoon rains descended on our mountain.

CRESTED BUTTE - JULY 2010

2010-09-03T04:52:00.008-06:00

As I sit here in our home on Long Beach Island, NJ, having prepared for Hurricane Earl which now seems will do little more than water our flowers, I decided to add to my long neglected blog with some pictures from our 3 weeks back in beautiful Crested Butte more than a month ago.

We managed a couple of hikes between working in our yard. One of our favorites being the 403 which begins at an old abandoned mine.

The remains of this old truck, along with discarded mining equipment is scattered near the entrance.

The wildflowers were still beautiful -

And the views spectacular, especially near the top.

SANDY & JERRY'S WILDLIFE

2010-07-25T17:30:00.013-06:00

Just before returning to Colorado we were invited to a very nice dinner party at our friend home, aptly named Sanderosa. Sandy Sandy is an accomplished artist and photographer, and Jerry Farley an equally accomplished mechanic who also creates works of art from odds and ends.

This whimsical cat is only one of Jerry's many creatures.

Besides caring for her two horses and bevy of cats, Sandy finds the time to keep a dozen hummingbird feeders filled for the large flock of Ruby-throated hummingbirds that return each year.

But their generosity doesn't stop there. Jerry buys old corn from local farmers to feed their other visitors.

This doe, one of the early arrivals, enjoyed her treat as evidenced by the corn silk still hanging from her mouth.

She was followed shortly by many of her friends.

Including these two young bucks.

BREAKFAST IN THE GARDEN

2010-07-25T16:20:00.009-06:00

Our favorite inhabitant of our garden is no doubt the praying mantis. When watering the flowers my husband is amused how these little creatures, even when no bigger than an inch or two, stand up on their hind legs in attack position and dare you to get them wet. We always try to avoid them.

While watering, one morning I spied this one sitting on a flower and apparently eating something - so I ran in to get my camera and a macro lens.

By the time I got him focused he was already well along in devouring a fly that he had caught.

He turned his head and gave me the evil eye - a warning not to try to take his prize from him.

Since I didn't appear to threaten him, he continued his meal, removing the wings which I guess are not the fly's tastiest or most nourishing part.

So I left him in peace to finish his breakfast - knowing that was one fly that wouldn't bite me.

BEACH AT SURF CITY

2010-07-25T15:49:00.014-06:00

Now that we are back in beautiful Crested Butte for a few short weeks, I decided to post a few pictures from the last weeks in New Jersey. I always seem to be behind.

My sister and I spent some time enjoying her new grandson, Nathan on the beach late in the day.

A storm had just past and the ocean had left a nice, shallow, salt water pool behind the front of the beach.

However as the tide changed the waves cut a channel to drain the pool back into the ocean.

These three little girls who at first watched with caution the water draining through the newly cut path found a great place to play follow the leader.

ARRIVAL IN SLOVAKIA - BRATISLAVA

2010-07-21T15:05:00.001-06:00

We arrived in Bratislava after a long flight from the States via Paris and Vienna followed by a fast car ride,(I tried not to look a the speedometer). The weather was beautiful, our hotel a 5 star in the midst of the Old Town, but the best of all was our soft beds - as we settled in for a short nap.

Changing clothes we went out to explore this beautiful city which is the capital of Slovakia, a small land locked country in Eastern Europe. Having been part of the Czechoslovakian Republic since the first part of the century, it fell under the control of the USSR at the end of the WWII and didn't become a sovereign state until 1993.

A short distance from our hotel was the main square, surrounded by old restored buildings including the "Old Town Hall" , Maximilian fountain, many small tented shops and an ice cream kiosk.

Near the square we encountered this one man band. He produced an amazing variety of beautiful music.

Bratislava is filled with statues of unusual sorts. "Rubberneck" has already lost his head twice due to careless drivers,but now he has a "man working"sign to help protect him.

But of course that leaves room for imitation by a local mime.

Walking on to this cool, lovely, traffic free promenade we encountered a special treat -

lots of hugs!

But then too, we found a favorite statue of mine.

BRATISLAVA- DAY 1

2010-07-21T14:59:00.001-06:00

Our first full day in Bratislava again was beautiful with blue skies, sunshine and warm temperatures. With Barbara from Connecticut, who will be on the biking trip, we decided to walk up the hill to the castle. Unfortunately, not knowing that I couldn't open and edit Raw files on my mini computer I have only the ones from my small camera to use here. Live & learn, I hope.

The climb was steep but not long and we passed part of the old wall and tower.

The view of the city became more beautiful as we climbed.

The castle goes back to Celtic and Roman times, as the hill had a strategic position at the crossroads of important commercial routes and a ford across the river Danube. The first written mention comes from 907, but after 1437 during the era of King Sigismund of Luxenbourg it began to take on its present day appearance. There has been a large scale restoration in progress since the 1950's which still goes on today.

From the castle grounds you can see the fast flowing Danube River below.

We then decided to cross the new and modern bridge with the tall tower at the other side containing the so called "UFO" restaurant atop. To build the bridge and its access ramps the Russians completely demolished the old Jewish section with its winding streets - which was no doubt emptied by the Germans in WWII.

The bridge itself has walking and biking lanes built beneath the traffic lanes, and the view from the restaurant at the top of the tower was spectacular. (There were well over 400 steps - we took the elevator!)

In the evening we attended the opera, Lucrezia Borgia at the city theater near our hotel in the "Old Town".

The inside of the theater was beautiful and obviously recently remodeled, as has been much of the old
town.

The opera, though enjoyable, did not compare with New York, or other cities in the States or world. The voices were good but the stage settings and costumes, including what we called "the swinging garden" which threatened to dump or knock down the singers, left much to be desired.

BRATISLAVA- DAY 1

2010-07-21T14:52:00.002-06:00

Having been off line for 3 days due to traveling and no internet service in the castle where we were staying I will now try to catch up, since I am back online here in Hungary.

Our last full day in the Czeck Republic we had intermittent sunshine and drizzle. We played it safe by taking a tour of the old city on the "mini train" - most of which we had already walked.

One of the highlights was St Martin's Cathedral, a 15th century Gothic church where 11 Hungarian kings and 8 concerts were crowned between 1563 & 1830. Today it serves as a concert hall.

The part we hadn't seen was the toilet in the rear (on the left of the tower) where waste was dropped directly into the moat. (That was really a "Long Drop" as my Africa traveling friends would understand).

We then climbed the tower of St Michael's Gate to see the arms museum,and the view of the city from the top.

c
We could easily see the UFO restaurant on the new bridge where we had lunch the day before.

We then walked over to the St Elizabeth Church, also known as the Blue Church, for obvious reasons.

The church dates to the beginning of the 20th century and is a unique example of Art Nouveau.

We were fortunate to arrive just as a christening was completed and were able to get inside for a moment. It was quite lovely.

BIKING IN HUNGARY - DAY 3

2010-07-21T14:46:00.002-06:00

We wakened on our last day in Bratislava to drizzling rain- a foreboding of things to come. Our whole group of 19 had arrived & we met our guides, Jan from Hungary and Colleen, American but now from Ireland and 2 trainees, Susie & Csaba, both from Hungary. Since this was the maiden tour of "the Best of the Danube" we had all brand new equipment: bikes, helmets, bike bags etc. Quite a treat! We rode our bikes across the Danube on the bike path beneath the bridge and got on the bike path. The riding was great despite the drizzle, but I didn't stop for photos, but thought it best the first day to just keep up.

The one exception was this beautiful country estate which I couldn't pass without a quick snapshot.

For lunch we stopped at a new and large facility on the other side of the river having crossed 2 bridges over the dam. The food was served buffet style and was delicious. However the special treat for me was what was outside. I followed some kayak carrying young men to a white water course.

And grabbed a few shots of the action.

We continued on to our home for the next 2 nights, the Hedervary Castle. Its emergence can be associated with the German, Heder moving to Hungary sometime in the 11th century. The original fortress was destroyed by the Turks in the 1529, and the castle finally completed in 1578. In the late 18th century it gave home to artists. It was fully renovated in 2002-2004.

Going into the castle, after the reception area you enter a center court with old tree in the middle.

The first set of marble stairs were covered with this beautiful carpet. Unfortunately, we had a second flight to climb to our room.

But when we got there, we entered our room it was 3 times the size of a normal one.

In one corner of the bedroom was a beautiful, old, white ceramic heater, not working of course.

Dinner that evening was in the castle in this royal dining room, served in a kingly fashion.

BIKING IN HUNGARY - DAY 4

2010-07-21T14:36:00.013-06:00

Our first full day of biking in Hungary proved to be a memorable experience to say the least. As we left the Hedervary castle it was raining hard and the wind was blowing. No matter which way we went it seemed we were going up-wind, except when it hit us from the side and almost blew us over. It was a bit like riding on Long Beach Island in a gale, which I never want to do. I foolishly did not bring a real waterproof jacket, and was soon soaked to the skin and very cold. We stopped in a little market and got a trash bag which I donned over my soaked windbreaker. I think we passed quaint little villages but taking pictures was the last thing on my mind - all I wanted to do was get the ride over with.

When we got to the town of Puski, the one before our proposed picnic lunch, our guides made a change of plans and decided to try to find a restaurant that would allow us wet, bedraggled bunch of bikers to enter.

Of course I looked much worse in my "garbage bag" rain outfit.

While waiting I took this picture of a church in and center of town

And this one of an outside vegetable display at the corner produce market.

Jan, one of our guides and Kevin, the VBT employee who put the trip together had a serious discussion about the weather.

Jan & Susie discuss our options for lunch.

Mine was a delicious salad which I had to photograph.

Leaving the restaurant for the van I snapped this photo of the wet street.

Nine of us opted for a warm ride back to our hotel rather the continuing in the rain. But the adventure didn't stop there. Hitting a large pot hole, the van came to a stop, and wouldn't start again, so a taxi had to be called to complete our ride. Later the problem was found to be a dislodged fuse.

That evening, back in the castle, showered, dry and warm things took a definite upturn. We had a "palinka" tasting in the wine cellar.

Palinka is the Hungarian version of Grapa, almost pure alcohol made with various fruit flavors.

We got to taste 8 different flavors, poured into glasses with this measuring bulb on the end of the spout. The party got very lively!

TO ESZTERGOM - DAY 5

2010-07-21T14:33:00.001-06:00

The rain continues!! Peaking out our window at 5 AM we had the false illusion that the weather might break, but we left on our bikes from Hedevar in the rain if not quite the downpour of yesterday. We biked mainly on bike paths through Dunaszeg to the town of Gyor. There we met the van on the cobblestone street by the Danube where we left our bikes. We had time to explore the town before the bus ride to lunch and a cooking demonstration in Neszmely.

Even on a rainy day checking out the local ice cream shop is a good idea.

The people here must be used to this type of weather. Dresses were on display outside shops properly encased in plastic. In another nice sporting good store, Chuck bought me a red North Face rain jacket to make up for my packing deficiency. It would get good use.

The town itself was beautifully restored and maintained. Even in the rain the city hall was sparking white.

Walking back to the Danube to board the bus, I spotted these boats on the swollen river, and the statue of a part horse part sea creature on a spit of land.

We were greeted in Neszmely by the lovely owners and staff of the farm, dressed in traditional dress. We watched the baking of the bread, which we enjoyed as an appetizer with honey.

The Strudel demonstration began with the stretching of the dough by hand to the size of a card table. (Not an easy job! When we tried to do it ours looked more like Swiss cheese.)

The dough was then sprinkled with oil, poppy seeds, sugar and finally sour, seeded cherries. It was then rolled, placed in a pan and baked in the brick oven.

Lunch was served, the traditional Hungarian stew served in puffed pastry, a salad with chicken baked in the oven and strudel for desert. Eating like this would make us weigh 300 pounds.

Due to excessive mud and water on the bike paths, we all rode on the bus to Esztergom and the Hotel Bazilike alatt Panzio (hotel under the Basilica), our home for the next two nights.

Settling into our room quickly we had time to explore the town, and as we passed the remains of the fort on the hill the sun came our briefly.

Town center, thought almost deserted on a late rainy afternoon was still charming and colorful, with little shops closed for the night.

In the street the manhole covers were the most beautiful I have seen.

Again the sun came out momentarily to light up a row of houses as we searched for a place to get a small bite to eat for supper. Small is difficult to find in Hungary!