Goodbye Summer

Goodbye to summer heat. You scorch the earth And sap humans and animals alike. Servus Sommer Du versengst die Erde Und laugst Menschen und Tiere gleichermaßen aus. So long to colorful blossoms. You delight the senses And provide a feast to connoisseurs of nectar. Auf Wiedersehen Ihr farbigen Blüten Ihr erfreut die Sinne Und bereitet … Continue reading Goodbye Summer

Colorado Wildflowers

It has been an unusual year for wildflowers. On the plains and in the foothills, a cool and wet spring engendered floral profusion, if a bit belated. In the mountains, heavy spring snows delayed blossoming, and some flower lovers worry that the alpine flora, robust as it is, might not have enough time to complete … Continue reading Colorado Wildflowers

How To Stay Cool

It has been hot! July brought several heat waves, and to someone whose comfort zone is in the low 70s, the high 90s are taxing and trying. I have been hiking early, seeking to escape the sun by midmorning, by withdrawing either into the cool basement, or, occasionally, into an air-conditioned dwelling, something I don’t … Continue reading How To Stay Cool

Summer Sorrow

At the height of summer, after an evening of sustained rains, Fountain Creek is a ruddy river. The mountains remain shrouded in layers of clouds. Instead of paths there are puddles, the air is pregnant with moisture, and the vegetation with dewy droplets. Slightly sluggish avian and insect activity accelerates with the rising sun. Alas, … Continue reading Summer Sorrow