How We Spent the "Apocalypse"

Not surprisingly, the world didn't end on May 21 as Harold Camping had predicted on Family Radio. Amanda and I happened to be camping on that day at Colcord Ridge on the Mogollon Rim, between Payson and Heber. It was a great time to disconnect and immerse ourselves in the natural rhythm of the world.

Canyon Creek

Horsetail along Canyon Creek

Nelson's Larkspur near Valentine Ridge Campground

Rocky Mountain Iris

Rocky Mountain Iris

Silver-spotted Skipper

A Sonoran Mountain Kingsnake that slithered across the highway as we drove south of Young. It brings to mind a helpful rhyme I learned in my scouting days, to distinguish between the very deadly coral snake, and this non-venomous kingsnake: "Red touches yellow, kills a fellow. Red touches black, friend of Jack." Either way, I wasn't about to pick this guy up!

The view overlooking Roosevelt Lake from the east, with some blooming Ocotillo.

The view overlooking Roosevelt Lake toward Four Peaks, with blooming Prickly Pear.

What camping trip would be complete without chili dogs!