39.11 "Touched by the Great Colorado River—a tribute to it and its tributaries as well as Joanne and Ron."

At sunrise, a flock flying south reflect off the rising sun alongside Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam, Page, AZ.



A very special couple, Joanne and Ron Allegretto from Vancouver, whom we met in Palm Desert 6-7 years ago, made a comment that we thought both interesting and perceptive. Following their observation and the fact that we spent much time pursuing the Colorado River on this trip and on many other hikes over the years, decided to publish some pictures which we term, "Touched by the Great Colorado River—a tribute to it and its tributaries."

Far be it for us to profess to have teachable knowledge about the River and other topics; nevertheless, it's nice to share experiences that might inform and at the same time, entertain. Over the years we've developed an affinity for places, those in the wilds in particular. Why has it occurred: Who knows? We do realize that whether it be the Colorado River, The Sentinel in South Africa, Vihren Peak in Bulgaria and many, many others, one develops a sense of affection for those inanimate objects and places. They might occupy a part of one's soul although we're not even sure what the means—it sounds interesting though. Sharing a personal feeling, as a less than fully integrated transplant from South Africa, there's a certain satisfaction in discovering aspects of the new country (30 years already) that's perhaps more intimate and meaningful than that understood by many people, born and who have lived their whole lives, in this country. Perhaps a meaningless observation; nevertheless, it creates a sense of attachment, we believe.

More importantly, some of the people we've met have touched us deeply. Strange as it may seem, we can't think of anything more beautiful than witnessing and/or experiencing the kindness and care of strangers and of course, friends and acquaintances. Nothing is quite as both humbling and uplifting. To complete the thought, we began with Joanne and Ron (there are others, too) and so we'll conclude with them. After receiving an email from this couple, no matter what our moods may be at the time, life will suddenly appear much better than prior to reading their words. Thank you, indeed!

With that in mind, let's follow the great Colorado as it meanders through 4 states and appreciate both its beauty and the effect it has upon that which it touches.

This is our 1,000th publication on Hike-About. We conclude with a paragraph at the end which we believe needs expression although uttered (written) with heavy hearts.


The walls above the Colorado at Horseshoe Bend, at sunset, Page, AZ.




Trying to keep Lake Mead filled, Boulder City.




Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam, Page, further up the 'stream', at sunset.




Davis Dam, Nevada, another place it 'visits'.




Horseshoe Bend, Page, a fancy twist.




Why would you face Las Vegas at sunset and turn your back on Lake Mead? Beats me.




That's more like it. Jen on Fortification Peak in Arizona looking into Nevada with Hoover Dam below on the left. (Opposite side from above photo.)





The River flows while Jen stands at peak of Hamlin in Nevada.



Below the River, Jen climbs the ladder to reach the surface.




A different view of the River as it flows close to the Nevada/Arizona border.




Do you come here often? Unfortunately, I left my bathing suit in the car. Give me a minute...I need to get rid of an editor.




Sun, mountains and River. Who needs anything more? Well, after the caption above, peace in the home.



A scene at Parker Dam, Arizona, perhaps a dwindling River after much draining.



Lake Havasu enjoys the River, too. The desert is quite beautiful.




Returning from peak of Fortification, we spot the gap to Lake Mead filled by the River.




Brunch at Plateau Point, Grand Canyon, above the River.




It's no surprise that Lake Mead is one of our favorite bodies of water.



A 'drive-through' at Lake Powell, AZ, close to Utah.



Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey


If the statement below is understood as a political utterance than it is misunderstood completely.

We hate the acrimony pervading the country; we abhor attacks on people rather than arguing against their views; we're exasperated by trivializing historic periods and events in comparing them with current shallow opinions; we are disappointed when conclusions are based upon the narrative rather than facts; we hate the hatred, nastiness, bitterness, crudity and perhaps most importantly, the hypocrisy ... filling the country. We do see light, though. The light shines above the beautiful land and highlights it, revealing its magnificence. There's another source of illumination we witness, even more pronounced. It emanates from the many, but dwindling number, of decent people that abound. To those we've known for many years and the many we've met in the latter period, we salute you and are humbled and in awe of your generous and kind spirits.