A full week in McCall at the cabin with Megan, Hank and Margie. We have been biking, boating, tubing, water skiing, swimming, sand castle building, a large LEGO boat assembled, Lincoln log homes built and knocked down, Minecraft, sly fox, book reading, and even a game of charades. We have also watched a few kids movies. The adults have looked forward to 5 in the afternoon because we allow ourselves a glass of wine. In need of a new focus, we agreed to hike to Pearl Lake. Six miles up Warren Wagon Road then six very bumpy miles near the Crestline Pass and then a 4.2 mile round trip to the pristine Pearl Lake. Although there is not a lot of elevation gain, it is a very rocky trail in many areas. I failed to say it was raining and the perfect temperature to hike and for the mosquitoes. Margie is three and walked and ran all the way there, Hank is six and did the same. Seems like we did give the kids a lift on the way out-best be in shape for this outing at 7000 feet in elevation. The picture tells the story but does not due justice to the picturesque lake or the abundant wildflowers in full bloom along the trail. It only took us six hours round trip but every one slept well.
This is a remote place and we saw two other people on the trail. As we passed the first lake called Tear Drop Lake, Karen heard an unnerving sound. So what could up here that you might worry about? Bears, cougars, wolves, moose, elk, badgers, snakes—let your imagination take over. We continued on for the next mile, across a small river and up the final rocky climb, Karen heard the sound again. The adults were brave and kept their eyes open and carried on to the lake. In my mind it was up to me to assure the safety of the family and I looked for the best club, rock or spear that nature could readily provide. My reaction time could be limited as I was carrying Margie back to the trailhead. It was odd that only Karen periodically heard the same sound but she was convincing without frightening the kids. I was glad to see the fallen bridge that marked the end of the journey. I wonder what could have been out there tracking us and vowed to bring my pepper spray for the next outing.
As we started the car and reversed course, reviewing our adventure and wondering what was that sound, Karen fessed up, she had worn a safari type hat and her collar turned up against the mosquitos, that unnerving sound was caused by the interaction of her clothing and hat when she made a certain motion. I give her credit for not keeping her secret and it provided a good laugh for the hikers.
“Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life’s coming attractions.” Albert Einstein. I am moving my imagination away from forest creatures to build back better the country we love.
Please mask up, wash your hands, and respect the science based distance advise. Mike
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