LHR Images BLOG

Last night, I took advantage of a break in the weather to go paddling at Chester Woods. First time since we lost Frodo so it was definitely a bittersweet event.

Thanks to all our recent rain, the lake was about 10 feet higher than usual. I paddled past sunken fishing piers, picnic tables and trash cans. The dock at the boat launch was a few yards from shore.

Fantastic cloud formations reflected in the calm water.

The bow of my canoe sure was empty without Frodo sitting there.

There was an eaglet on the nest I’ve been observing for the last several years. I took a bunch of obligatory shots but none worth sharing. Mostly, I just concentrated on the clouds. And, searching, in vain, for the turkeys gobbling along the shoreline.

With the clouds, I was expecting a spectacular sunset. While definitely nice, it didn’t live up to expectations.

Although I stayed fairly late, I wasn’t anywhere near the last one off the water. It was such a nice evening, it was tough to leave. Yes, Frodo was missed but I definitely still enjoyed the paddle.

Internet access has been spotty again so it’s been tough to keep the blog updated.

On Friday, we made it to Holbrook, AZ with no problem. I had a little time to head over to the Petrified Forest National Park after we arrived. Skies were mostly clear when we first arrived at the motel but storm clouds started rolling in by the time I got to the park. Made for some dramatic shots.

We took time out on Satuday morning to see more of the park… mostly in the sunshine this time.

Some of the logs in the Crystal Forest area…

An interesting hill on the other side of the road from the Crystal Forest.

The “Badlands” in the Blue Mesa area.

Formations in the Blue Mesa area.

Petraglyphs on “Newspaper Rock”.

Thanks to the stop at the park, coupled with losing 2 hours due to time zone changes, we rolled into Amarillo, TX at 9 PM.

This morning, we rolled out of town at about 9. Sunshine, heat and wind followed us for the whole trip. With minimal stops, we arrived at Emporia, KS at about 6PM. Clouds started rolling in just after we arrived. Severe weather warnings abound to the northwest of us.

On our way, we received a call from Michael. They arrived in England ok but the escort nurse decided it would be best if Pam went to the hospital. So, Pam is now in the hospital in Gloucester and Michael is at home. It’s a relief to all for them to be back in familiar surroundings again though.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to go the rest of the way home. According to Mapquest, it should be about an 8 hour drive.