Tom and I both have physical problems today, so he proposes a shorter hike in his local stomping grounds. His knee has been acting up, and I have a cactus wound on my ankle that’s inflamed. We’re happy to manage this hike, during which Tom takes me to all the best viewpoints and relates local historical tales. The legacy of Shirley McClaine’s driveway, the Once-Used Hanglider Launch are two stories that go with the hike. Someday maybe I’ll mash up all these yarns into some amusing fiction. Today I’m happy to find a mystery cactus and hundred-mile views to Mt. Taylor and Mt. San Antonio.