Rivers are roads which move, and which carry us whither we desire to go. ~Blaise Pascal
Hi Friends,
This year are experiencing the wonderful benefits of a long and wet Winter. Everywhere we go in Nevada this Spring and Summer, the water is running high and with spirit. On Friday as June was coming to an end and July was getting started, I stopped along highway 88 on my way to Lake Tahoe to see just how beautiful water was in one of my favorite spots.
Here just off the busy road, the West Fork of the Carson River is running high on the banks. The sound of the water can be heard from the road. I love this pot and often use it as a meditative rest from a busy day of driving. The sound of water on rocks can take your mind off the jumble of daily non sense.
I put together this video for you. Just the sound of the water to help take you away for a couple minutes.
Peace, Love and Bliss,
Don
Showing posts with label Nevada Tucker Times. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nevada Tucker Times. Show all posts
Sunday, July 03, 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Our Fay Luther Trail Ride
Hi Friends,
On Sunday Brenda and I took the horses out to explore the Fay Luther Trail System near Gardnerville.
It has been one of our goals this year to be able to see new trails and share new adventures on horseback. So we got a used horse trailer the first part of the year. Then a few weeks ago we started practicing loading up our three horses. We made a short drive down to the South end of the lake to get Dually and Pete used to trailering again. It also allowed us to try some new trails in the hills at that end of Washoe Lake.
This Sunday we decided it was time to go a bit further. We decided that we would head South to the Fay Luther Trails in the hills near Gardnerville. We pre loaded the trailer with all our stuff plus a picnic lunch and drinks for the trip. It was our first all day drive and ride so far.
The Fay Luther Trailhead was very accommodating, dirt with gravel parking lot. Plenty of space for trucks with horse trailers and cars to park, even with the special event being held there this weekend. It looks like there are usually no facilities available at the trailhead. This weekend they did have a port a potty, but we assume it was brought in by the special event group. We used it anyway. We brought our own water as we read that none was available. There were some running streams so if we had needed, the horses could have got refreshment from them.
After we saddled up we headed for the hills. We really didn't know what to expect from Pete and Dually on the first trip from Washoe, but were pleasantly surprised by both of them. Pete stepped right out and took the lead on the way from the parking area. It looked like he was on a mission setting a great pace and enjoying the ride. Dually was right behind but a bit more apprehensive. The slope or climb is not too agressive so it is not too challenging for me. Brenda is an ace on hills and has little or no fear, but I am a bit more of wimp, so it turned out great for both of us.
The trail system took us up into the pines and brush. The sound of running streams greeted us around many turns, the smell of the fresh air with pine was amazing. We did need to cross a few small streams if we felt up to the challenge and did try one small crossing. Brenda got Dually over it but Pete was a bit more unsure, so I got off and walked him across. We both learned something we can use next time we need to cross a creek or other challenge. And neither of us beat our horse like the lady crossing in front of us.
There were some rock crossings to tackle as well. Nothing too big for most folks I am sure. But for me it offered something new. Pete impressed me by stopping and looking at his options before crossing and then picking his path across. Dually was great too making his way over the rocks with relative ease.
Back at the trailer we packed up and chatted about how much fun we had. The horse did great and we so enjoyed the ride together and recorded a new adventure for our memories. We really think you will enjoy the Fay Luther Trail System if you are thinking about trying it. Bring water and something to snack on and have fun.
Happy Trails...
Don and Brenda
Pete and Dually
On Sunday Brenda and I took the horses out to explore the Fay Luther Trail System near Gardnerville.
It has been one of our goals this year to be able to see new trails and share new adventures on horseback. So we got a used horse trailer the first part of the year. Then a few weeks ago we started practicing loading up our three horses. We made a short drive down to the South end of the lake to get Dually and Pete used to trailering again. It also allowed us to try some new trails in the hills at that end of Washoe Lake.
This Sunday we decided it was time to go a bit further. We decided that we would head South to the Fay Luther Trails in the hills near Gardnerville. We pre loaded the trailer with all our stuff plus a picnic lunch and drinks for the trip. It was our first all day drive and ride so far.
The Fay Luther Trailhead was very accommodating, dirt with gravel parking lot. Plenty of space for trucks with horse trailers and cars to park, even with the special event being held there this weekend. It looks like there are usually no facilities available at the trailhead. This weekend they did have a port a potty, but we assume it was brought in by the special event group. We used it anyway. We brought our own water as we read that none was available. There were some running streams so if we had needed, the horses could have got refreshment from them.
After we saddled up we headed for the hills. We really didn't know what to expect from Pete and Dually on the first trip from Washoe, but were pleasantly surprised by both of them. Pete stepped right out and took the lead on the way from the parking area. It looked like he was on a mission setting a great pace and enjoying the ride. Dually was right behind but a bit more apprehensive. The slope or climb is not too agressive so it is not too challenging for me. Brenda is an ace on hills and has little or no fear, but I am a bit more of wimp, so it turned out great for both of us.
The trail system took us up into the pines and brush. The sound of running streams greeted us around many turns, the smell of the fresh air with pine was amazing. We did need to cross a few small streams if we felt up to the challenge and did try one small crossing. Brenda got Dually over it but Pete was a bit more unsure, so I got off and walked him across. We both learned something we can use next time we need to cross a creek or other challenge. And neither of us beat our horse like the lady crossing in front of us.
There were some rock crossings to tackle as well. Nothing too big for most folks I am sure. But for me it offered something new. Pete impressed me by stopping and looking at his options before crossing and then picking his path across. Dually was great too making his way over the rocks with relative ease.
Back at the trailer we packed up and chatted about how much fun we had. The horse did great and we so enjoyed the ride together and recorded a new adventure for our memories. We really think you will enjoy the Fay Luther Trail System if you are thinking about trying it. Bring water and something to snack on and have fun.
Happy Trails...
Don and Brenda
Pete and Dually
Monday, May 30, 2011
Carmel Mission Adventure
We found on our journey, as well as in the place where we stopped, that they treated us with as much confidence and good-will as if they had known us all their lives.
Junipero Serra
Hi Friends & Family,
During our anniversary trip to Carmel we checked out the Carmel Mission. It was really beautiful, relaxing and educational. Just a short drive from our base camp at Carmel Country Inn, we found a nice quiet place to park so the dogs could sleep while we took the tour. Actually it is a self guided tour that allows you to enjoy/explore at your own pace. After entering through the little gift shop you pay and get your map of the grounds. The first part of the tour drops you into the garden area. From there we got a great feeling of the history and spirit that has made this Mission so special. Beautiful roses and statues surround the entrance to the Basilica. What a wonderful building. It looks like a post card from the courtyard. It makes it easy to imagine the same spot in the late 1770's with Blessed Junipero Serra making his way to the Basilica.
The Basilica Church is as beautiful inside as it is outside. The catenary ceiling, thirty foot reredos and 5 foot thick walls reminded me of times past, when buildings had charm and character. There were details in the details if that makes sense. In all there were 5 museums on the grounds, each one a story to tell about God, the Church and what it mean't to the people of 1771. It also showed me that history still matters to people today because so much care is taken to preserve the Mission.
For about 2 hours we wondered around the self guided tour checking out the Basilica and the museum areas of the carmel Mission. It was really cool seeing all the tools that were used to build (and rebuild) the mission. We were surprised to see that there is a active school on the grounds. It sort of made it living history with the sounds of children playing.
As we were leaving, just as we were getting in Christine (our truck) to leave, the bells chimed. It was a perfect end to our time at The Carmel Mission. We captured our tour and the bells in a video we share with you here.
Peace, Love and Bliss
Don & Brenda
Rusty & Peppy Too!
Junipero Serra
Hi Friends & Family,
During our anniversary trip to Carmel we checked out the Carmel Mission. It was really beautiful, relaxing and educational. Just a short drive from our base camp at Carmel Country Inn, we found a nice quiet place to park so the dogs could sleep while we took the tour. Actually it is a self guided tour that allows you to enjoy/explore at your own pace. After entering through the little gift shop you pay and get your map of the grounds. The first part of the tour drops you into the garden area. From there we got a great feeling of the history and spirit that has made this Mission so special. Beautiful roses and statues surround the entrance to the Basilica. What a wonderful building. It looks like a post card from the courtyard. It makes it easy to imagine the same spot in the late 1770's with Blessed Junipero Serra making his way to the Basilica.
The Basilica Church is as beautiful inside as it is outside. The catenary ceiling, thirty foot reredos and 5 foot thick walls reminded me of times past, when buildings had charm and character. There were details in the details if that makes sense. In all there were 5 museums on the grounds, each one a story to tell about God, the Church and what it mean't to the people of 1771. It also showed me that history still matters to people today because so much care is taken to preserve the Mission.
For about 2 hours we wondered around the self guided tour checking out the Basilica and the museum areas of the carmel Mission. It was really cool seeing all the tools that were used to build (and rebuild) the mission. We were surprised to see that there is a active school on the grounds. It sort of made it living history with the sounds of children playing.
As we were leaving, just as we were getting in Christine (our truck) to leave, the bells chimed. It was a perfect end to our time at The Carmel Mission. We captured our tour and the bells in a video we share with you here.
Peace, Love and Bliss
Don & Brenda
Rusty & Peppy Too!
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Anniversary Celebration and Adventures
“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” – Henry Miller
Hi Friends and Family,
What a wonderful few weeks we have had. On the weekend of the 15th of May we celebrated our 29th Anniversary. To use a tired old phrase, "boy does time fly." It really is hard to believe that 29 years has already passed in our marriage.
We marked the occasion this year with a trip to Carmel, CA. It was our first experience with this wonderful little town and we totally loved it. Can't believe we have missed this oasis for so many years. Well actually I can because we have a habit of visiting a place over and over if we find one we like. Lately we have been thinking this through a bit more and have decided we would like to try new places to expand our adventures and experiences.
So it was off to Carmel and the adventure of someplace new. We drove from Reno to Sacramento and then down I5 a few miles then across CA152 into Carmel. The drive was great, no real problems with the navigation and it sure was beautiful. Miles and miles of farm land, green as far as you could see and good conversation. We did get a little lost in Carmel but that was corrected in short order and we soon found the Carmel Country Inn, our resting place for the weekend. The Carmel Country Inn was such a wonderful experience that I will have a whole article just about them so I can do them justice.
Carmel has small town charm and something we had not experienced in any other town ... total acceptance of people and their pets. Really they were welcome everywhere we went. The grocery store, the shops downtown, even the restaurants. It is so refreshing to visit a place that Loves animals as much as we Love ours.
We wandered on down to Carmel Beach and sat in the white sand soaking up the good vibes and sea air. The beach was another place we found animals of every kind wandering, running and playing with their owners. It was really a blast!
Along with the embracing pets, Carmel also does not have any parking meters, no loud music, no huge neon signs or billboards and no street numbers on the buildings. They don't blow up buildings when they get old and build ugly new ones and everyone seems really genuinely nice.
We came back totally relaxed and refreshed and excited about returning again someday to see more of the sights and experience more of the vibe of Carmel.
Here is to you finding a place to relax and refresh.
Peace, Love and Bliss,
Don & Brenda
Rusty & Peppy Too!
Hi Friends and Family,
What a wonderful few weeks we have had. On the weekend of the 15th of May we celebrated our 29th Anniversary. To use a tired old phrase, "boy does time fly." It really is hard to believe that 29 years has already passed in our marriage.
We marked the occasion this year with a trip to Carmel, CA. It was our first experience with this wonderful little town and we totally loved it. Can't believe we have missed this oasis for so many years. Well actually I can because we have a habit of visiting a place over and over if we find one we like. Lately we have been thinking this through a bit more and have decided we would like to try new places to expand our adventures and experiences.
So it was off to Carmel and the adventure of someplace new. We drove from Reno to Sacramento and then down I5 a few miles then across CA152 into Carmel. The drive was great, no real problems with the navigation and it sure was beautiful. Miles and miles of farm land, green as far as you could see and good conversation. We did get a little lost in Carmel but that was corrected in short order and we soon found the Carmel Country Inn, our resting place for the weekend. The Carmel Country Inn was such a wonderful experience that I will have a whole article just about them so I can do them justice.
Carmel has small town charm and something we had not experienced in any other town ... total acceptance of people and their pets. Really they were welcome everywhere we went. The grocery store, the shops downtown, even the restaurants. It is so refreshing to visit a place that Loves animals as much as we Love ours.
We wandered on down to Carmel Beach and sat in the white sand soaking up the good vibes and sea air. The beach was another place we found animals of every kind wandering, running and playing with their owners. It was really a blast!
Along with the embracing pets, Carmel also does not have any parking meters, no loud music, no huge neon signs or billboards and no street numbers on the buildings. They don't blow up buildings when they get old and build ugly new ones and everyone seems really genuinely nice.
We came back totally relaxed and refreshed and excited about returning again someday to see more of the sights and experience more of the vibe of Carmel.
Here is to you finding a place to relax and refresh.
Peace, Love and Bliss,
Don & Brenda
Rusty & Peppy Too!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Rest, Just What the Doctor Ordered
The man who doesn't relax and hoot a few hoots voluntarily, now and then, is in great danger of hooting hoots and standing on his head for the edification of the pathologist and trained nurse, a little later on. ~Elbert Hubbard
Hi Friends,
Okay the Doctor did not order me to rest. I was just driving down the road and had been driving for a quite a few hours when I saw this beautiful spot along the Truckee River. It called me to stop and take a few deep breaths and relax a bit .. so I did.
It was a perfect day and the river was still lined with snow so it was wonderful to look at and imagine just how cold the water might be. Peaceful, peaceful, peaceful .... ahhh, bliss.
Have a wonderful day.
Peace, Love and Bliss,
Don
Hi Friends,
Okay the Doctor did not order me to rest. I was just driving down the road and had been driving for a quite a few hours when I saw this beautiful spot along the Truckee River. It called me to stop and take a few deep breaths and relax a bit .. so I did.
It was a perfect day and the river was still lined with snow so it was wonderful to look at and imagine just how cold the water might be. Peaceful, peaceful, peaceful .... ahhh, bliss.
Have a wonderful day.
Peace, Love and Bliss,
Don
Monday, April 18, 2011
Relaxing Back at Home
Man's heart away from nature becomes hard. ~Standing Bear
Hi Friends,
I had to attend a meeting in the bay area this last weekend. It does not take long when you travel to a place with such a fast pace and hurry up attitude that there is no place like home in Washoe Valley. I found some relaxing sights and sounds along Deadman's Creek Trail and it took all the buzz and static out of my head.
Deadman's Creek Trail is a nice short hike on the East side of Washoe Lake State Park. It is only about a mile in length and has a pretty good climb to it. The sounds of birds and running water will really bring peace to your soul.
There is no fee to park or use the trail. If you are lucky, like I was today, when you get to the top you might find areas where the water is just bubbling up out of the ground. What a beautiful sight.
I hope you have a place to go that releases all the stress in your body and mind.
Took the Flip camera along and captured some of the sights and sounds, maybe it will relax you a bit.
Peace, Love and Bliss
Don
View Larger Map
Hi Friends,
I had to attend a meeting in the bay area this last weekend. It does not take long when you travel to a place with such a fast pace and hurry up attitude that there is no place like home in Washoe Valley. I found some relaxing sights and sounds along Deadman's Creek Trail and it took all the buzz and static out of my head.
Deadman's Creek Trail is a nice short hike on the East side of Washoe Lake State Park. It is only about a mile in length and has a pretty good climb to it. The sounds of birds and running water will really bring peace to your soul.
There is no fee to park or use the trail. If you are lucky, like I was today, when you get to the top you might find areas where the water is just bubbling up out of the ground. What a beautiful sight.
I hope you have a place to go that releases all the stress in your body and mind.
Took the Flip camera along and captured some of the sights and sounds, maybe it will relax you a bit.
Peace, Love and Bliss
Don
View Larger Map
Saturday, April 09, 2011
Wanted to Share This Video
Never lose an opportunity of seeing anything that is beautiful; for beauty is God's handwriting - a wayside sacrament. Welcome it in every fair face, in every fair sky, in every fair flower, and thank God for it as a cup of blessing. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Hi Friends,
The weather has been really interesting this month. Sunshine and warm weather then cold windy days and some snow mixed in. Then on Thursday I drove through this neat hail storm on my way to Sacramento. It was on the hill at Alta in California and it really came down for a mile or so. Then just when I was thinking I should pull over and wait it out, it ended and the sun came out again.
It was short but fun and the video I made is sort of cool. So enjoy and have a great day.
Peace, Love and Bliss,
Don
Hi Friends,
The weather has been really interesting this month. Sunshine and warm weather then cold windy days and some snow mixed in. Then on Thursday I drove through this neat hail storm on my way to Sacramento. It was on the hill at Alta in California and it really came down for a mile or so. Then just when I was thinking I should pull over and wait it out, it ended and the sun came out again.
It was short but fun and the video I made is sort of cool. So enjoy and have a great day.
Peace, Love and Bliss,
Don
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
Have You Seen Our Mailman?
Hi Friends,
Sure it snowed here at Casa Tucker and has been on and off since about the 18th. But it has been about a week since last we saw any new mail. It probably is not much, a couple of bills, maybe a magazine and then those wonderful paper things that we toss right into the trash. Still we do always have that outside chance that a check for a million dollars or free tires or a free soda coupon.
Today I took a walk out to the mailbox just to check and see if the mailman had stopped by. Nope, still nothing... our mailbox is still empty and cold... and lonely.
Have you seen the mailman in Washoe Valley? Actually, I did see the mailman yesterday. She drove down the road just passing our mailbox and then she stopped. Was she going to back up and fill our mailbox? Nope she paused looked around and then continued down the road. Oh well, maybe tomorrow I will mail myself a letter or card and see if she picks it up.
Stay tuned for more. But until we find out about tomorrow, enjoy this video I made today.
Peace, Love and Lost mail,
Don
Sure it snowed here at Casa Tucker and has been on and off since about the 18th. But it has been about a week since last we saw any new mail. It probably is not much, a couple of bills, maybe a magazine and then those wonderful paper things that we toss right into the trash. Still we do always have that outside chance that a check for a million dollars or free tires or a free soda coupon.
Today I took a walk out to the mailbox just to check and see if the mailman had stopped by. Nope, still nothing... our mailbox is still empty and cold... and lonely.
Have you seen the mailman in Washoe Valley? Actually, I did see the mailman yesterday. She drove down the road just passing our mailbox and then she stopped. Was she going to back up and fill our mailbox? Nope she paused looked around and then continued down the road. Oh well, maybe tomorrow I will mail myself a letter or card and see if she picks it up.
Stay tuned for more. But until we find out about tomorrow, enjoy this video I made today.
Peace, Love and Lost mail,
Don
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Winter Wonderland?
Hi Friends,
We woke to more snow this morning. Brenda is really getting tired of it, but it does make things look pretty. Brenda is still reminding me that she hates the snow, but is either getting used to it or is starting to give up on my ability (or interest in) changing it. She would Love to live in a tropical place with year round warm sun and light breezes so she can ride horses every day.
The chihuahuas don't much like the snow either. They are so much shorter than the snow drifts that they just might get lost in the little trails Brenda builds for them.
I am sure we both dreamed of riding the horses last night and thought this snow might be a dream. We were disappointed when we woke up to find it still in the driveway, with mote added overnight.
Oh well we are off to the bookstore and some shopping and then we will see what develops.
Took another video this morning to share.
Peace, Love and Bliss,
Don and Brenda
and the critters!
We woke to more snow this morning. Brenda is really getting tired of it, but it does make things look pretty. Brenda is still reminding me that she hates the snow, but is either getting used to it or is starting to give up on my ability (or interest in) changing it. She would Love to live in a tropical place with year round warm sun and light breezes so she can ride horses every day.
The chihuahuas don't much like the snow either. They are so much shorter than the snow drifts that they just might get lost in the little trails Brenda builds for them.
I am sure we both dreamed of riding the horses last night and thought this snow might be a dream. We were disappointed when we woke up to find it still in the driveway, with mote added overnight.
Oh well we are off to the bookstore and some shopping and then we will see what develops.
Took another video this morning to share.
Peace, Love and Bliss,
Don and Brenda
and the critters!
Friday, February 18, 2011
Todays Snow Storm Follow Up
Hi Friends,
Just wanted to pop in and share this short video of the snow in Washoe Valley last night and today. Spent the morning plowing the driveway and then resting my sore back. Oh well it was sure pretty.
Peace, Love and Bliss
Don & Brenda
Just wanted to pop in and share this short video of the snow in Washoe Valley last night and today. Spent the morning plowing the driveway and then resting my sore back. Oh well it was sure pretty.
Peace, Love and Bliss
Don & Brenda
Sunday, January 09, 2011
Some Thoughts on Turning 50
Hi Friends,
50 years: here's a time when you have to separate yourself from what other people expect of you, and do what you love. Because if you find yourself 50 years old and you aren't doing what you love, then what's the point? ~ Jim Carrey
I just turned 50. Yup, that is pretty much what I thought of it too. But I did want to write down a few thoughts, mostly for me to look back on, but also to share these thoughts with you.
I started to get the AARP mailings when I was 49. They actually will sign you up when you are 49 1/2, so I did that early to get it out of the way. Mostly for the discounts, but every time I have showed my card I get a look like, "you are not a senior." No I am not a senior, but I get some of the nifty discounts.
So on December 29th I turned 50. I really don't feel 50 unless I need to get out of some work I don't wish to do at the moment. But I am now 50 nonetheless. I still feel about 20, younger at times and am accused by Brenda that I act no older than 14 and at times 5 years old. I feel like I have followed many of the dreams I that have appealed to me over the years. Talk about dreams, I have crewed for a balloon team, crewed for an air race team, been in a great band and am married to the most wonderful girl in the World. The other dreams have been passing fancies, but the girl is still here even after almost 29 years. I am looking forward to all the dreams yet to come. Those that I will have the benefit of years to appreciate more.
I enjoy friends more and their company if it uplifting.
I am finding it hard to remember many little thoughts and some big thoughts, and that drives me crazy at times. But that is fine, they migh not have been that important. And because I can't remember them, I won't miss them.
It seems like 50 is not really that big a deal, when you look at people living to be 80 or 90 years old. Betty White is going to be 89 and is still beautiful and full of life. I can see living to be 90 years old and living a wonderful life with Brenda at that age. Our neighbor was riding horses and living a pretty full life well into her 80's.
Brenda really spoiled me (and ribbed me quite a bit) on my birthday. Had a wonderful cake with fireworks candles that sparkled and popped. Brenda treated me to pizza (my favorite) as well as a Nook e-book reader and some cool stuff for Pete. She also got me a great book by Dr Seuss called "You're Only Old Once, A Book For Obsolete Children." It was a great day! Make no mistake, Brenda also got some good jabs in about me being an old man. I am sure she held back a bit because she will be turning 50 at some point in her journey and paybacks are a bitch.
I am still learning new things and enjoying life every day. I have the knowledge to skip housework if the opportunity arrises to take Pete out for a long ride instead of cleaning the bathroom. I enjoy the sunrises and sunsets more all the time. This year I am learning how to play the banjo and getting some new tools to help in my understanding of horses ... and people. I know there is probably more, but I probably forgot what it was.
Peace, Love and Bliss
Don
Monday, December 20, 2010
Driving Around Reno, Carson City and Minden in the Snow
Hi Friends,
On Friday December 17th it was snowing and the roads were a little slick, but it was fun to drive around delivering my carpet and such. I thought it might be fun to allow the dash cam to capture a few minutes of my adventures. I didn't get any video of the cars and trucks that forgot the dirty side/shiny side rule, they were all over the place. You would have thought we lived in some place that never saw snow.
It was a long day but it was sort of refreshing. Don't get me wrong, I am already tired of the snow and can't wait until Spring.
Peace, Love and Bliss
Don
On Friday December 17th it was snowing and the roads were a little slick, but it was fun to drive around delivering my carpet and such. I thought it might be fun to allow the dash cam to capture a few minutes of my adventures. I didn't get any video of the cars and trucks that forgot the dirty side/shiny side rule, they were all over the place. You would have thought we lived in some place that never saw snow.
It was a long day but it was sort of refreshing. Don't get me wrong, I am already tired of the snow and can't wait until Spring.
Peace, Love and Bliss
Don
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