56:23 Arizona: Tonto National Forest: Los Osos: Cloud our lives with such beauty or we've literally 'looked at clouds from both sides now'.

Looking up at a mix of clouds and down toward a gorgeous lake.

We have found over the years that when the weather appears poor, one should make an aggressive argument for not remaining indoors. Clearly, when it is obviously terrible and appears not likely to change, stay home. We can think of times when we were caught in lightning storms, heavy rains and other adverse conditions, not pleasant experiences to admit. Nevertheless, had we remained indoors, we would have missed facing adverse weather probably less than on ten occasions over 13 years. Following the logic through, we also would have missed hikes somewhere close to 90-100 times, probably more. Expressed differently, for every 9-12 occasions that we hiked in what appeared to be imminent bad weather, only on one of those days did we get wet. In addition, besides being able to get out and enjoy the adventure, the so-called adverse weather usually provides a different slant on the views, the sights. 

 This was one of those occasions when it began to rain while at 'home', including along the way to the trail, stopped for a while, commenced again for a short period on two further occasions and then ceased completely. For the first half of the hike the visibility was poor with the odd breakthrough only. From the turnaround position following a speedy brunch, nature provided spectacular scenes as the clouds parted, the sun shone somewhat, and the views through the clouds allowed for extraordinary views of the lake, the mountains and other clouds of incredible shapes, too. In addition, sunspots on the mountains were unique in and of themselves. On our return to homebase, we discovered it had rained throughout our period away. Good thing we were outdoors, for the holes in our roof, would have made for an unpleasant morning. 

Every cloud has a silver lining, water is silver from the reflection.  

  A horseshoe of which the offroad drivers make much use.

Someone thinks she's pretty smart.
Now we're witnessing action from above...with no rain.
Cloud action from below.

Became dull again (not Jen) as the clouds mounted a further attack.
A great place to absorb nature and benefit from the tranquility it dispenses as well as the joy it provides.
Something's cooking in the valley.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey