The Light Before the Fall

It was one of the most beautiful days that I can ever remember in the month of any November since we have lived in Minnesota. My day was mostly riddled with unexpected conference calls but Bonnie and I did sneak away long enough for a brief hike along the Hidden Falls trail near the edge of the Mississippi. It has become a weekend ritual for us when we can squeeze it in. To watch the dogs run off leash there and to swim in the mighty river makes our hearts soar. And, to bask in the brilliant and unexpected warmth of the sun today made it extra special.

At the end of the trail there is a pavilion for dining that - when not used for picnics - becomes a favorite spot for a group of talented boarders. I could sit for hours and watch these chaps use the tables and stonewalls as ramps and rails. Though this area was not designed for such, these boarders have made it their natural habitat and, to my eye, it is a much better use of this space as compared eating hot dogs and chips. I love that fact that boarders create their own parks out of town halls, museums, post office, picnic grounds and the like. It lends a wonderful energy to urban life.

Today is sub-Sunday. A day that blip central asks us to call notice to a fellow blipper that we admire yet gets far to views. My adoration for the journal of Wild Cardinal has been strong for many months.

At first, I struggled with the blown-out whites on the t-shirt in this image but the reflected light on the boarder's face led me to this upload despite the technical flaws. Please see it in large if you have the time.

I am back on the road in the morning but will try to catch up with you all at some point.