Some Moments of Inspiration (2015)—inspired after being fortunate to complete a hike in Andorra (2022), both of us with injuries/illness.

This element of Hike-about involved a destination in Texas for a family event. We took 6 or more weeks on the road-return to undertake it. Goes without saying it was superb. 

Sometimes, a person is inspired, other times elated and of course, there are periods of 'downs'. As everyone knows, the idea is to seek the former and limit the latter. Easier said than done. However, a simple method we discovered over many years which has never failed is to to undertake strenuous, testing and challenging physical efforts. That's it. The challenge is the reward. On completion, especially should one attain one's goals or better, we are confident the 'downs' will be replaced with 'ups', with elation and satisfaction. There is a proviso, however: These incredible moments don't last. The effort has to be repeated continuously. Who said life is easy? But then we found another concept. Anything achieved without effort, anything easy is worth...nothing. 

The last month has been one with tough challenges culminating in a really tough day. As we struggled on a very challenging trail today, there was one thing certain. Should we complete what was a minor adventure in and of itself, under less than ideal health conditions, the reward on our return to the apartment would be waiting for us...with a quick expiry date. As stated earlier, the next day we begin again. 

Perhaps the question one may pose: 'Should there be a way to attain a feeling of satisfaction, of success, without effort, would you like that?' We'd hope our answer would be a resounding 'No'. 

Jen sits on the peak of Wheeler, New Mexico at 11,160 feet.

A happy girl in Tucson, Az.
Caught in the headlights as we prepare to camp overnight in White Sands Desert, New Mexico.
Sunrise in Nevada...enjoying the 'golden wave'.
Texas actually has a mountain, Guadeloupe. Wow! And it's tough, too.
Going high in the Valley of Fire, Nevada.
Still in White Sands before hunkering down for a freezing night.
Not Bryce Canyon but the incredible Cedar Breaks National Park, Utah.
Found a new position at Angel's Landing in Utah.
Cooling off in Utah.
Onto Ice Lakes Basin in Colorado.
Jenni at her best as she ascends Wheeler Peak in tough conditions.
'Twinkle Toes' in Tucson.
About to settle on Wheeler Peak, a memorable occasion.
Sometimes we take chances, not always smart. Perrins Peak (Hogsback trail), Durango, Colorado.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

Peru: Another side of life: How fortunate some of us are.

Choquerriro trek: 5 or so days along the Andes.

  A visit to Nepal, Peru and many other countries gives one a little appreciation of how tough it is for so many inhabitants of those regions. At times, it's hard to believe we all live in the same world. We believe visiting these places is a reminder for a person to understand how fortunate we are when we are materially comfortable. Of course, that's not the whole story. While more and more we realize the purpose of life is to pursue one's passion, rather than chase the buck, (although that is probably a passion for some), the poor countries, inter alia, are excellent teachers of humility, appreciation, gratefulness and other qualities desperately required of the current era in wealthier societies. 

  We think a person can convince oneself that one is humble and appreciative of the material gifts one receives. However, the best example of this occurs once a person has been without these benefits for a few days/weeks. Immediately thereafter, running water, electricity, tasty food, a mattress as a few examples take on a new meaning. But what of those whose typical life is to survive without the basic comforts. It can tear the heart, bring tears to the eyes—it can be a cruel world. It has an upside though—it makes charity more meaningful. 

Getting high above the ruins.

Creating a crib from two chairs.
Children, oh Children, you make a difference.
Sorry, fellas. One of you is 'going to pot'...today.
I'm not a big guy. These fellows probably have not been nourished throughout life.
Home-sweet-Home for a few nights. One evening we had to deal with a horse which wanted to kick over our tent.
Jenni is leaving you today. Sorry, fella.
Our first funeral in Peru.
"Jen, I don't know whether there's enough space for you."
Machu Picchu below, observed from the path to the mountain peak of the same name. 

  Machu Picchu ruins covered in clouds.  

  Revealed. 

 A view into town. Agua Caliente.
Dropped off in a town close to the trailhead. Car sick after a rough ride.
Sprawling Cusco.
Tough climb as the air was thin and dirty. We were not feeling well at commencement, either.

The high point at over 15,000 feet.

The Israelis cover many parts of the hiking world and of course, need food.
Another tough day. The next morning, I turned over and slept on my stomach to vary the trip.

Taking a stroll in Cusco. We seemed to fit in well. Nobody could believe we weren't locals. 

 Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

While he may talk a good game, the reality is... (Napping after 1,800 feet with 2,800 to go at altitude and recovering from a cold.)

Berryessa, California--Delightful hiking and beautiful scenes.

This part of the world lifted us both physically and perhaps, spiritually. Gorgeous.

    

Another day, another hike, our own trail, another position and another perspective.

Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

55.14 France: La Mongie: Lac Greziolles, a toughie...and some contrasts from elsewhere.

'As darkness continues to descend upon our glorious planet, we are becoming more like strangers than neighbors. However, there is no command to love the stranger. Fortunately, there’s a command to assist the stranger. Hasn’t worked out that well loving neighbors…can one expect a different outcome for strangers? Bets are off the table.' (jcl) 

Fortunately, there is so much light covering Earth, one just has to seek it. Not difficult to find. 

In the beginning, the air is fresh and cool, the water flowing and 'living is easy' but later, the slopes are cruel.
After the first climb, a quick 600 feet, we spot Pic Du Midi in the background. (Reached top previous week-scroll down).
The flocks of sheep and some cattle dot the slopes, hugging the coolness. We find 'The hills are alive with the sound of bleating.'
Seeking contrast on the other side of world. A view from Ben Lomond, New Zealand.

Then it becomes one climb following another.
We attain a better view of our friend, du Midi. We think it's a one-sided relationship.
We reach one of the beautiful lakes (dam).
This is commonly understood as a 'protest'.
For contrast (miss the deserts), perhaps one of the greatest places on Earth. Grand Canyon. (Plateau Point overlooking the Colorado River.)
On our return, we follow the stream.
And take the gaps.
Further contrast: One of the harshest places on Earth: The beautiful "Death Valley", California.

I thought it a nice perspective as I await Jen's arrival. I did not notice her taking pictures, though. Good shot, Jen! Caught him resting.
Reflections are a big deal.
Indeed!

The Frenchman at dawn, in Nevada rather than in France, viewed from Black Mountain, Boulder City.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey

We understand these animals were formerly BLack sheep. This is considered inappropriate in some circles. Therefore, to try and retain some commonality for the sheep but in a changed color, they are now considered BLue sheep. Of course, this solves all problems because in those circles, context and intent are ignored.
After being charged by a cow the previous week, I'm slightly more cautious. I also ensured I had a credit/debit card with me. Many don't accept cash any longer. 

  Back at Pont Napoleon. The French have surrendered le guillotine, finally. However, they have replaced it with another form of punishment. Hence, Jen and I have been on our best behavior in this glorious part of the world. It truly is glorious. (Strangely enough, that woman 'made a pass' at me and Jenni took corrective action.)

Our residence in Luz Saint Sauveur, France. It was a delight, including the lovely managers/owners. (Front pink building with extensive gardens including 'putt-putt'.)