owls:

a recent fascination













"you're the bone machine"

>>

if you've the opportunity, and enjoy panoramas, please hike these trails:

rattlesnake ridge






&

snow lake


i found them to be worthy day hikes. they were a bit strenuous in the 90degree weather, but absolutely beautiful!

they are located around north bend, washington off of interstate 90. google 'em!

still life

with wayne thiebaud

a few of these hanging above my kitchen stove would be simply sweet.

much needed relief

if you're like me, then during the summer months pestering insects make going outside bittersweet---the mosquito, in particular, is the bane of my camping/hiking/ simply being outside existence.
as i sit and lament this, i am fighting like mad to resist the urge to scratch the numerous unpleasant traces left on my skin from my run-ins with the blood sucking insects of the pacific northwest. (i even have one in my armpit, and try as i might, i cannot understand how it got there...)

in my lamentations i have scoured the web for natural remedies for itch relief. because i know that i am not alone, here is a list of things that you will find hanging about your kitchen that just might help, as they've helped me:


-salt
-baking soda

add a little water to these and make a paste. rub it on and wait a few minutes.

-aloe
tip: apply before bed to prevent waking up during the night with itchy bites.

-apple vinegar

soak a cotton ball and then hold it on the bite. works well, actually.


i am always looking for a natural way to prevent these guys from actually biting. i am open to any pointers and advice!

the positive side: the pacific northwest pales in comparison to other parts of the country when it comes to biting insects... for that i am grateful :)

now, off to my baking soda paste!