Cover Supplement (previous): 7-Rila Lakes, one of our finest days in the mountains.

Jen sits on a low peak above the lake, in an isolated position but not far from the many visitors to the park.

We will develop a full blog later. However, on a day that should have been less than ideal because of high winds, tough climbs and tired feet, we probably reached, besides the peak of Haramiyata, a high point in Hike-About. Once we had accepted the wind would be a hindrance and danger, the journey a little uncertain, the possibility of rain looming, the sluggish feelings we both had at the outset, the day turned on the figurative dime and resulted in triumph, satisfaction and a feeling for two insignificant souls of being at one with the world...(temporary, of course).

In the 'former cover' picture above, Jen sits close to a peak (above rear lake) viewed from Haramiyata Peak (Black Peak) at 8,169 feet, across the way on another day. (3 of 7 Rila Lakes on display.)
A view of Haramiyata Peak after returning from the top. Spectacular hiking experience is an understatement.
Standing alongside one of the 7 lakes prior to attempting to reach the peak, in the background.
Jen shows her mettle as she climbs steeply above the lake also shown in the picture above. The hut is in view as well.
Heading toward the peak. While we had to deal with dangerous, gusting winds throughout the period of the climb and return, the wind vanished just before we completed the day's activities. Timing?

Triumph...well at least 'something' in the family made it. Once a person understands that in Bulgarian an "X" is an "H", an "a" is an "a", a "p" is an "r", a "backward N" is really a "y", etc., it's obvious that this is Haramiyata Peak. Sometimes, we English speakers can be awfully dumb.
Jen triumphs again on the peak across the way from Haramiyata Peak on another day.

Two full blogs showing the true beauty of the region will follow shortly. 

Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey 

Who doesn't love a curve!