69.22 Bulgaria: The fourth time on the circuit: Snezhanka Tower, Orpheus Rocks, Yazovira Dam and Studenets, thereafter, reverse circuit. Add tail to hike to reach a special viewpoint.

With Jen being sidelined, unfortunately, after a month in Bulgaria, I was able to undertake a few hikes locally by walking out of the apartment and continuing into the mountains. It enabled me to get out for short hikes but being close by without having to use the car. 

  All-in-all, a totally unsatisfactory situation, one of much pain and suffering for Jen and dare I say, a big drain on myself. Nevertheless, I truly believe it brought some comfort to Jen knowing that I was out for a while and good for both my body and I suppose, aspects of my mind. Anyway, that's what she said most kindly. I'll need to do some thinking of the latter although this could place further strain upon my limited mind.   

  In addition, I found that the occasions in the forest provided a comfort and tranquility that moved me into different spaces, obviously of a physical nature, but also, a mental one...a different realm, quite remarkable.

After a mile incline, one reaches a dam and enjoys the tranquility...it sets the mood and tone for the day.
Reaching a position overlooking the forests, allows one to gain perspective of the valley, inter alia.
Reaching a viewpoint after arriving at the top of the mountain at Snezhanka Tower; one walks down further to gain a view of the Pirin Range. The high mountains in the distance are Mounts Vihren and Kutelo, two we have reached several times...that's not considered a boast...well, maybe close.

Hiking should not be without some feminine companionship, especially when one's beloved is on the 'injury list'. I say: "Relax and let it all hang out."
Another highpoint on the other side of the hike is Orpheus Rocks. Climbing on these rocks can be a little tricky but the views are awfully colorful.
A rare occasion when the sky was visible both by looking up and down.
From Orpheus Rocks, a view to the mountains across the way.
Another colorful view at ground level.
And a different view of something similar shown earlier, from part way up. One ought to be careful not to drop a pin in the forest; it might be difficult to trace.
Getting close when the view of Snezhanka Tower appears through the trees.
Oh! That is the tower reflecting somewhat lower down...some 900 feet lower.
No impediments blocking the proud tower with the sky appearing to show off for a change.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

Looks like Snezhanka's little brother is making an appearance from below the lake surface.

69.16 Pamporovo, Bulgaria. Reach Studense and up Ski (slope 2) to Snezhana, across to Malina, down slopes (5a, 4 and 4a and across 6)...and home.

This trail is for the birds. We struggled up the steep, wet and soft underfoot while completely mesmerized for 3 hours in a wonderful environment. We might have mentioned that sentiment/feeling before. Well, we have a new system in which our frequently mentioned feelings/observations of wonder are initialized regularly. In this way, we avoid repetition; therefore, making it slightly more difficult to classify as boring.
Reminds us of a golf fairway. At least when you slice your drive, there is some reward in searching for the ball.
We avoid Snezhanka Tower after midnight, it seems too haunting.
Sounds feeble but the camera cannot capture the acuteness of the slopes (This is 5a, black diamond). Okay, I feel better now.

The extremely steep but short addendum to 4a, number 4. We classify this as 'rough diamond'. Love the visible tree trunks.
Snezhanka Tower helps the less competent with their ('his') bearings.
A few days before we hiked up the slope. This time we came down a slope parallel to this one. The turnoff (4a) is just to the right at the equipment.
In a few places we enter the serene forests.
Provides perspective of the terrain.
Black diamond (2) to/from Studenets.
Rich and overflowing with pride.
Sometimes one feels 'Big Brother' is lurking...um...history might just affirm this.
Some like a view of drops of sea water, others, grains of beach sand while many talk to the trees.
Almost a patterned-mix.
Walking down into a wall of trees.
So much more to see but it's enough, says Jen.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

69.20 Bulgaria: Part 2 of Yogadina highlights, a random selection from other places, including a special guest to provide melody to accompany the surround.

  Following the comment in the previous blog (video), we did receive 2 notes from very kind viewers (thanks, Gavin and Ellie, a son and granddaughter respectively. What wonderful people they are indeed!) Therefore, we have published a concluding collage from the mountains surrounding Yogadina, as promised.

  In addition, we inserted a few photographs from other hikes in Bulgaria to avoid boredom. 

 Finally, we welcome our friend, Brian Murray, who fills in the quiet parts with a meaningful song composed and obviously sung by him. How appropriate it is to have a rather sad and touching rendition accompany a time of year with flora of brilliant colors before the fall and demise of many of them.

 Remember to click on the arrow in the picture and then to size it, the icon at bottom right.

69.19 Bulgaria: A video of Bulgarian Mountain Scenes...Taken on a hike up to 'Eagle Eye' in Yogadina.

Here is a second video following our initial endeavor into state-of-the-art high-class digital publications...nice thought. It's also, known as struggling to try to put something together in new technology...well, for the much older population, most things are new. Of course, our editor did not check the limitation of the video and size restrictions, thinking our computing requirements are minimal in terms of what's out there. In this case, Jeffrey was acting as editor, and after much effort, found in order to meet editorial and publications standards, (not quality), said video had to be reduced by 50%. This means, dear viewers will be deprived, should that read be relieved? Anyway, should we get a minimum of 2 viewers communicating that they would like to see the other 50%, watch us spring into action to bring it to your screen. 

  After clicking on the arrow (middle of picture), the screen will be ready to accept 

instructions:     

- To enter the full screen, click on the block/square at the bottom-right corner. 

- To exit the screen upon completion, click on the bottom-right corner symbol. 

- To focus on a particular image, click on it and it will remain visible until a re-click.

   Thereafter, continue to scroll-down or scroll down at the outset to avoid the video.

 

69.18 Bulgaria, Yogadina: A Brief Introduction to amazing mountain scenes of color and other sights.

  The photographs below are taken, mostly, on a mountain in Yogadina. Once again, we cannot express accurately how meaningful the visuals were, what they do for our well-being, our enjoyment as well the effect on our souls. At any level of elevation, the scenes are beautiful; yet the higher one stands, it seems the beauty is further enhanced. 

  As an aside, the number of photographs taken reached a record. We are not proud of that quantity snapped as it tends to take away some continuity from the hike. Nevertheless, we will find a way to deal with it...'big deals'. 

  Full set to follow soon.

Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

69.17 Bulgaria, Smolyan/Pamporovo: Hopping amongst 5 high-points seeking incredible sights, including a little via ferrata in the mix. Phew!

We'd experienced some bland scenery in Bulgaria during previous autumn periods. After venting to someone in the higher echelons, power not height, we think we have been rewarded. This photograph was taken on a cliff which provided both an exhilerating and superb view.
We find it fascinating how the trees and other plants take turns in changing their colors each season. It looks like these 'guys' have selected a predominantly green coloring for autumn. Nice but a little too conservative. (Apologies offered...couldn't resist...see text.)
The previous week we were at lake level where we viewed the surface of reflections and flora plus our current position above.
A view from last week's position at lake level of where we stood a little below the peak today.
A different lake appears when one casts the eyes in different directions...we'll grab them all.
The sun catches the perfect spot as we moved to a different small peak on the western side.
An exciting time and place where we find ourselves tested by the via ferrata. I experienced a short but satisfying climb up the cliff wall. (See below for explanation.)
This is a picture from two years previously as it is not appropriate for 'selfies' (hate the word). Most unfortunately and sadly, Jen is suffering from an injury and is resting these last few days. I take short hikes to get out of the apartment to give her peace. Bless you, Girl! See end. Hence, no photograph of verification of today's climb.
With such warnings, no wonder we see so few visitors in Bulgaria. Seriously, upon reading the warning one becomes (I do) awfully humble. That's even before seeing the obstacle. I'm reminded of a quote from Winston Churchill when someone mentioned in a complimentary manner that a colleague was a most humble man. His retort: 'That's because he has an awful lot to be humble about'. I get it. I miss him.

A view from another peak in the vicinity. The outskirts of Smolyan in the distance stretching to the far left.
The flora is wildly beautiful. One feels one's in a different space, even a changed world. The feeling occurs frequently within the forests.
Yet from another peak.
We think this view is a knockout...an opinion only.
Another view of this very attractive suburban lake and its autumn surround.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey 

Jen makes a most welcome appearance...hence, the beautiful coloring surrounding us...well, nice sentiment.

The Hidden Price of Ridding the Reds.

"I have to write to him," I mentioned to Jen. "I doubt whether I'll be able to secure an appointment at this late stage though." 

  "You can be sure of that," Jen answered, "Sometimes I don't know who you think you are. There's no way this idea of yours' is going anywhere." 

  "You're probably correct but haven't I got to at least give it a 'full go'? After all, I feel so strongly about it. Not to follow through would say something of my convictions, or perhaps more accurately, lack of them." 

  "So let me see if I have this right. You are extremely impressed with the forests, flora and mountains of Bulgaria or more accurately, those few parts you have hiked. However, nothing is perfect. You find the color of the country an amazing array of all types, classifications, a multi-culture of sorts. Spectacular. But you do have one complaint. Am I correct thus far?" 

  "Yep! Okay, follow through!" 

  "There is a distinct lack of Reds throughout the land. Of course, you know that a new ruling class took over the running of the country after 1989. You were a bystander to that revolution. We agree we are both anti-communism, quite fiercely at that. Therefore, we are to an extent, with the change of political system rather than government, both most comfortable in principle. Now you want to follow through by seeking an appointment with a Cabinet Minister. As I understand it, you believe the attack on the Reds, almost an eradication of them, has proved detrimental to the environment, the land and the country as a whole." 

  "You're a good listener, my love. You have a fine grasp of my thinking. I would add further: I intend to take a very bold approach, even a very aggressive one. I wish to floor him and let him find out what it's like to have to pick oneself off the ground. I have attached a note which I know you will hate. Nevertheless, I am emboldened to follow a tough strategy. After all, he's rather smug and often refers to his office as the Department of Seasons. Funny fellow! Here goes: 

  "To the Dear Honorable Minister of the Environment,   

  I am unaccustomed to applying this form of address to politicians. The reason being that to use the term 'honorable' in conjunction with a politician is most distasteful, demeaning and insulting to any person of decency. However, I am prepared to give you the benefit of the doubt as you have yet to prove you fit the role of a politician, Mr. Autumn-and-Fall. Having paved the way to opening this conversation, dare I say, relationship, I have set out below the basis of my issue." 

  Jen interrupted, "You're not serious!" 

  "No, I'm not, but at least I know you're awake." 

  "This is like torture, but do continue," she acceded. If I let him finish it will be over quicker, she figured.  

"My wife and I have traveled extensively to Bulgaria, well, relatively speaking for foreign visitors, and are most impressed with the country. However, in our experience, we notice there are very few Reds. Whoever I have mentioned this concept to over the years, has seemed to laugh off my concern. People speak of history, the passing of time, progress, a burying of the tragedies and the opportunity to move forward. Sometimes, I think people seem too narrow in their approaches, too little in depth analysis, if you will. I am far more in favor of an open attitude, a better mixing, more variety, an international flavor. Yet, this attractive, in fact, I believe very attractive approach, would go a far way to restore much that has been lost since the 'revolution'.  

  "I understand you are a man for all seasons and realize you might not be able to find time to allow me to address my concerns in person. That is a possibility that I would find difficult to accept. Nevertheless, I also realize I have little option so as a standby, I thought I would forward to you a set of illustrative booklets containing a little text but mainly photographs that help to make my points. 

  "I do believe, as mentioned initially, the younger generations don't have a grasp of the issue. I glean this from the rather flippant attitude displayed as well I've 'red' of it extensively. Nevertheless, I continue to make the case for and about the Reds. Let's reincorporate them back onto the land, the environment, society, into the country. It will return Bulgaria to its prime position as a model of beauty, openness, taste and success. It will prove that although the experiment or change in the early '90's proved to be a major undertaking, it could have been more successful with the correct treatment of the Reds. Surely, this is not the thinking of a person seeking confrontation, personal advancement or revolution? 

  "I urge you, as the Minister with a very powerful, although specialized portfolio, to please open the land once again to the Reds. We've been without them for far too long. Enclosed are a mere couple of photographs displaying the impact of the Reds. Thank you!"

 Look, Jen! There you are amongst the Reds...even in the mist (outside Salt Lake City).   

"See those deep reds. There are very few remaining in Bulgaria. While we love the yellows, beiges, various shades of orange, mustard and peach, even the greens, where have all the flowers gone? That is, the Reds. They make a major difference. We miss them." 

 To which Jenni replied, "Don't you think that the real issue is the idea of you having mis-communicated to people that you are agitating about a lack of brilliant autumn colors in red, while they believed you're a nut-job talking of communists? May I add that while many people are fixated on sugar and chemicals, you seem to be deep into colors, one in particular it seems. When will you ever grow up!"