A Quartet of Opposites

Number 1

Bikes and trains -- lots of both here.

Fort Collins is a very bike-friendly community. It also has 20 freight trains per 24 hours running down one of the main streets, loud horn blaring continually, blocking dozens of crossings for local residents. Lots of the freight cars carry coal and liquid petroleum.

Freight trains and bicycles are about as opposite as things get.

Number 2
We got out early this morning and walked along the Poudre River Trail. It was a joy to be near running water again, although the river was very shallow due to lack of rain and the extreme heat which has a grip on this area. The river is an attraction for lots of birds, and shows that wildlife can do well in an urban setting (spot the heron).

Number 3
There is plenty of open space there for walkers, runners, dog folks, and from the signs we saw on the trail, equestrians as well. Here is another set of opposites -- Phil examining a flowering plant new to him, which he dwarfs, and in turn he is dwarfed by a huge tree.

Number 4
Pink and green -- an example of the plant that attracted Phil. It's a native wildflower, showy milkweed (Asclepias speciosa), and even prettier than all of the bright containers of flowers we've enjoyed here as we strolled around Fort Collins.

Off now to try another beer place, reputed to have 100 taps. It seem the wisest course to do my blip before going there.

Do take a look at Phil's beautiful blip for today!