Rushing muddy waters

The spring run-off is in full swing, aided by the recent rains.  The water in Sheridan Creek is rushing, tumbling, foaming  over boulders in the stream, carrying a lot of muddy sediment with it.

Tracks in the mud

A dear family friend who lives in the southwestern part of the state was up here for a visit and asked if I would like to go along on a ride up to Sheridan Creek above Dubois.  I'm always up for a ride in the mountains; every trip offers something new and beautiful.  My friend wanted to visit the area where her folks' ashes had been scattered and lay out some flowers as a Memorial Day tribute. 

Nearby is this towering tree, with this exposed root system (below).  How does it survive?

After enjoying the peace and beauty in this campground area, we started walking around, first down to the creek.  The water was rushing and pretty muddy in color; the main stream is in the background, and the overflow is in the foreground.

Then, we walked toward the road and planned to walk to the bridge - another nice place to snap photos.

As we were about to step on to the road, I noticed something pretty obvious... fresh tracks that were not from a moose, an elk, or a deer.  No sirreeeee!

We both thought these tracks looked particularly FRESH.  Soooo, how about a few pictures?  And, perhaps NOT continue on to the bridge, just in case momma griz and the cub are interested in lunch...or have had a bad morning...

After walking back to the car, we decided it would be safe to DRIVE up the road, wondering if we'd see the bears.  But we didn't.  All that we saw were more tracks in the mud.  Just for comparison, take a look at my size 10's compared to momma bear's paw print.

I went to a garden party...

I saw that a lawn/garden scene was scheduled for the next Paint 'N Party event, and I was very interested in attending.  As it's a busy week for most folks, the crowd was much smaller, and the artist Jon had time to give individual attention to everyone, which was great.  I learned a couple new techniques, and that was interesting!  So, here's the latest painting as it progressed.

That's it, from the Painting and Partying Wyoming Woman.

Waiting for sunshine

The flowers are so heavy with raindrops and dew, they too are anxious for sunshine! The Columbines haven't quite lifted their heads yet to reveal their gorgeous blooms.

Blue Flax is waiting for sunshine too.

So, while it's been too wet to be outside...well, it's just perfect for knitting inside!!  I finished a hat that I am giving away.  It certainly was a good way to knock down the stash by one ball...especially this single ball of yarn with about 175 yds!  The pattern is called Antler Hat (a freebie from Ravelry).  It has these cables that look like antlers...very masculine, eh?

Yet another art class?

Yes, indeed, three of us traveled 60 miles for another painting/partying class.  The teacher/artist was from Casper.  Artisan Alley hosts these painting classes in Casper very regularly, and then they take their show on the road and provide classes in various towns across the state once a month. 

This is my painting.

And here are my artsy friends, Jane and Connie, with their paintings.

Had a great day, having a lovely drive, tasty lunch, fun class, and a bit of shopping. 

 I should have taken a picture of the following, but I didn't: We went into an antique shop, and they had a rare square-shaped grand piano that dates back to Abe Lincoln's presidency.  The piano has quite a story, and it quite remarkable that it found its way to WY where it got lots of tender care and rebuilding.  If you asked the proprietor, you could play it.  I asked, and she said, "Yes, please do."  So, I got to play a piano that dates back to the mid 1800's.  Cool.  I'll get a picture next time.

Soggy Sunday

All this rain is so uncharacteristic.  Love the moisture.  Not so fond of the muddy roads!

If you didn't know better, you couldn't imagine a whole mountain range, which is completely socked in by rain clouds.  The foothills and tall peaks are rarely out of sight. 

Recital time

Last Friday I hosted a recital for all my private music students.  All but two students were able to attend and perform.  I was thinking I'd need seating for 40; but as it turned out, it was more like 60.  We were scrambling for anything to sit on!  It was a tight fit in the recital room!  Fortunately, we had plenty in the refreshments department and didn't run out.  Jane made the cutest sugar cookies, and I got a picture of a couple "notes," although she had also made little guitars (so cute).

I was too busy to take pictures, so these couple will have to do.  It all went well.  Most of the students are young, and this was their first recital.  It's so cute to see them give their first formal performance!  Love it.