This tree is fairly widespread here in Colorado, and becomes more so as you go north along the continental divide. It tends to grow in thick stands, especially in burn areas. In fact the spiny, pitch-covered cones rely on heat from forest fires to open and can stay on the branch for several years. Needles…

The effort I’ve expended cultivating a small jungle in our back yard finally bore fruit today when I observed these two lovely garter snakes mating in the foliage.

We met the owners of this used Excel fifth wheel tonight. It’s smaller than the one we were looking at on the Windish RV lot, but much closer to our price range! We might even be able to afford the tow vehicle they’re selling. The idea of rejecting the unwheeled lifestyle is starting to become…

Something that rarely happens to me occurred today – I thought of a joke. I know it’s not a joke to be proud of, but it makes me marvel at my own odd sense of humor. Why do I laugh at stuff like this? I have no idea. Unfortunately this a computer-geek joke as well,…

The Crabapple blossoms look a little different this morning – they’re now all the white variety. I’m curious what things will look like in another week.

These blossoming trees have brightened the streets of Fort Collins lately, like a message that Spring has officially opened. I had no idea what they were, but there were clearly two varieties: white and rose. They intrigued me enough to tote the camera to work with me and identify them. I usually have little interest…

Ann’s brother Randy, a first lieutenant in the army stationed in Baquba, Iraq, has written some great letters home about his experiences there. Among many things he’s mentioned that he often checks the hobolog when he has a few minutes online, so I thought I’d say “Hi!”. Feel free to add your greetings…

Ann’s birthday is this week, and my dad came up on Saturday for a little celebration. Ann’s friend Ronda is hosting another party in Fort Collins this weekend (popular girl!) – write if you want to come!

It’s been a tough decision, but I’ve decided to take a new job. A big internet marketing firm in the area found an old resume of mine on monster.com, looked over the hobolog, and called me with a job offer to replace their recently departed Chief Technology Officer. I’m not really looking forward to putting…