Off the John Wayne Ski trail

I did my solo Sunday skate ski outing to Snoqualmie Pass. Blessed with dry and bare roads and I caught the groomer laying tracks on his lunchtime turn. Made it 5 miles to here then another 5 back. Wonderful for my soul but my damaged right knee decided to remind me of its need for some love and attention at the 7 mile point. However I feel so fortunate to be able to drive about 65 miles from my doorstep and be in a winter wonderland like this. Seattle can have grim weather but then it delivers this sort of thing. February starts tomorrow. I'm glad this first month is done and I've passed through a sad anniversary. A year ago I returned from my teaching assignment in China.
To the past I say thank you. To the future I say yes.

Sunday at Snoqualmie Pass, one year later

I'll leave it up to you to say so long, goodbye,
My love will follow you as the years go passing by.
Exquisite lyrics by blues man Gary Moore

Wednesday January 20 dusk

A beautiful lamp lighting the darkness of my soul this winter. One day I plan to see these in the souk in Istanbul. Tonight I content myself with a happy hour beer in the Golden Beetle, a lovely local restaurant.

Downtown at dusk

A winter view as the weather improves.

Making sense of life's changes

What is it, at this point in your life, that is waiting quietly backstage for an entrance cue?

Polar Bear Plunge at Golden Gardens

What a start to 2016!