The Black Hills

I've just returned from a week away from all that is familiar. No kids, no home, no friends, no computer, no telephone, no electricity.

I was lucky to have well water and a tent to cover my head. And it was wonderful! My lifetime lover and I celebrated our 10th anniversary in the Black Hills of South Dakota. We camped in the shadow of towering cliffs with the sounds of a rushing creek just feet away. The birds woke us each morning and the golden eagles soared overhead majestically.

We went hiking and fishing, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying God's handiwork all around us. It seemed there was something new and delightful around each corner. Wildflowers were abundant and little creatures were friendly.

A short hike down into a little canyon led us to this discovery.

Spearfish falls was only one discovery in a week filled with similar experiences.

Of course, we also experienced thunderstorms all night long, while we sat in a soggy tent. This trip could be labeled, "A River Runs Through It" although it didn't take place in Montana.

And only a little groaning was heard regarding the stinky outhouse and lack of modern bathing facilities. Frozen water + washcloth in the great wide open = sorta clean in a few places.

I won't be showing many pictures of myself since Heather - blow dryer = wild hair. But when you're roughing it, you don't care too much.

I was willing to deal with the inconveniences of outdoor living in order to experience the beauty of God's living room. I began my mornings with Him, in His beautifully decorated room and I ended my days sitting by the fire, enjoying the changing landscape.

Sometimes you have to rough it in order to see true beauty.