As I begin my second year with AW, I think about what it has meant to me. First and foremost it has introduced me to many, many wonderful people from all over the world....your friendships have enriched my life immensely. My perseption of art, especially digital art and digital manipulation, make me want to learn more. And then there are true artists with the brush, ballpoint pen, and fingerpainting. You have all expanded my appreciation of many kinds of art and artists who create them. I thank you all for a great year and look forward to the future at AW..........This year also brings changes, life is all about change whether we like it or not. Our daughter left last week to followed her path in the beautiful state of Colorado. She hasn't been there long, and she is already in love with the place. DARN!! In the past 6 years she and I have hike many of the numerous trails in a 50 mile radius of Enumclaw, Washington. I will continue to explore new trails and revisit old ones with others, but mostly with my husband who is ready to see these places in person, instead of thru pictures each evening upon our return. It may be a while before I can talk him into hiking in the pouring down rain or snowy blizzard. (She was easy that way...:)........... I also am recovering from my injured Achille's tendon, so will start from square #1 walking easier trails close to home and eventually by summer, I hope to tackle the longer, harder mountain trails. I can't tell you how much my soul is yearning to be back in the wilderness...a drive up the hwy just doesn't do it. ................ Thank you, my friends, for visiting my site throughout the past year. Your comments and observations have helped me grow and are so appreciated. My question today is as it was in the beginning....Where would you like to go today??? I hope you will come with me, and whoever I'm with, to some amazing places in my "backyard". A second question....What's in your "backyard"??........(1st photo of Mt. Rainier from the Mowich Lake road, taken Jan. 2005....2nd photo, same road, Aug. 2004) The snow level has been going up and down for the past month. I know spring is here, it just takes a little longer at the higher elevations. It will be another 2 to 3 months before we can get to anything over 3000 ft. (Here, the snow level is at about 2500 ft.)