59.03 The Colorado River, including the lakes and dams it fills along its epic journey. (Part 2 of 2)

 This is the concluding posting of 'scenes along, above and/or close to the Colorado River'. From our perspective, over the years of being in contact with the river and its surroundings, we have developed, if it does not seem very strange (probably is), a bond with regions through which the water flows. Man meets a river and at times, comes close to tears through joy, challenges, and perhaps the real issue, being overwhelmed with what we experience. The shear magnificence of that which we've witnessed and enjoyed has added thrills, knowledge, growth and beauty to our lives. In fact, it has enriched us by including a further dimension to our stay on the planet. Perhaps, above all, it, together with the rest of nature has taught us humility, our insignificance in the scheme of things. Whether we have learned these lessons is open to question. 

  Further elucidation of the above message...continues toward end...

The river is a natural border at Bullhead City, between Arizona and Nevada.  

She's a lot braver than I could ever anticipate...makes me feel like a wimp at times.
Black Mountain in Boulder City.
Lake Mead...without comment.
A hike through the canyons and then arriving somewhere on the border of Arizona and Nevada.
To get to the water in places, one walks through slot canyons and at times goes up in order to get down to water level. The axiom that water flows downhill proves itself over and over again.
Three of Lake Mead from Black Mountain, Boulder City, a place that keeps us staring at its beautiful surroundings and surface.

From the peak of The Frenchman, the sprawling city of Las Vegas. Behind the camera is Lake Mead.
'Voortekker Monument' at early sunset along Lake Powell...the 'monument' referred to is a famous one in Pretoria, South Africa.
Lake Havasu region is idyllic during winter.

From Hamblin Peak, the lake extends some 20 miles toward Hoover Dam.
Close to sunset as daytime begins to 'shut-down' in Page.

A trail in Lake Havasu region.
The river supports Havasu City. Viewed from a peak.
Always returning to top of Spenser Trail, a gem.
Jen loves the narrow edges...well, on leap years only. However, she never quits either.
Through the 'eye of the needle' at 'Rovey's Needle' along the river, outside of Havasu.
Tranquility along the river early one morning as we and it reflect.
Last light makes an impression at Lake Mead.
Kingman Wash hike, alongside Lake Mead.
Jen peaks, providing a wonderful view of the lake/river.
Ever changing texture of the surface is ever pleasing.
Masa Back in Utah.
One of our favorite pastimes is exploring boulder areas with views of the water. Each occasion is a different route, a varied experience, an element of discovery.

Looking away from Lake Mead toward Las Vegas. Why would anyone do that? Seriously, there are places on the outskirts of the city that are stunning.
Walls of the Colorado, a 'serious' canyon (Mark Michelow).
To get to the Colorado River at Gold Canyon, one needs to undertake a lot of this.
A rather unique view of the river after hiking and climbing the boulders to reach the position.
From Hamblin Peak in Nevada, Lake Mead is just to the right. Always tickled by the water lapping the desert.
Notice the lack of paddling effort of one of us...the source of the occasional argument...just saying.
  Further elucidation of the above message might be that a person should seek one’s passion which will culminate in finding one’s purpose in life. While we don’t think for a moment life is single dimensional, it might well be that, but only for periods while varying throughout one’s existence. While a person's passion may be of artistic endeavors, for example, in later life it might change to visiting art galleries rather than creating art, as an example. While I was passionate in playing various sports at different times of life—competitive swimming, soccer, rugby, tennis and golf (not intimating any talent though)—none of these have much relevance in my life today but for fond memories and experiences plus broken fingers. Even life in the professional and business world was often filled with excitement, today not so (unless a stock shoots through the roof). The point is that we are or should be driven by our passion but know that everything has its time and duration. One further point: It is not sufficient to have passion. One needs to recognize it, seize it and above all else, implement action that supports such passion.

  Currently, and for many years, we have been driven by a passion for adventure which we realize on mountains and in the wilderness, generally. While it’s our main focus, the supporting structure of our hiking and climbing adventures is in and of itself, an exciting aspect, too. Living on the road, the discovery of different lands, people and cultures and the mechanics of traveling, provide, at times, more than enough excitement (and in some situations, frustration) in our lives. It’s difficult not to be excited by the constant change, challenges, adventure and new opportunities. The latter are only limited when one imposes restrictions on opportunities.

  Besides the self-imposed limitations that become major obstacles, society also plays a role in some situations. We are not talking about rules and regulations but rather the more subtle kind of barriers. Perhaps it might be expressed as being the opposite of “keeping up with the Jones’”. Some people have a way of communicating in a manner both subtly and at times harshly, when they disagree with a lifestyle, notwithstanding it’s a private matter. The concept is fascinating and worthy of deeper discussion. Nevertheless, we’ll leave it there, Mrs. Jones. We wish all good people well and for ourselves, hope for at least satisfactory health and an abundance of passion.

That's it from Lake Havasu.
and the Colorado River.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey