Pretend you're going for a hike. What do you do first? You eat something healthy, naturally. Something natural. Something high in protein and low in sugar... I'm clearly making this up. Would that constitute "healthy?" <shrugs> Oh, I know! I'll show you! Here's a photo of a healthy meal: <scrolling through photos and muttering: "Cheese. … Continue reading Trail Wisdom: Mixed Messages
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Constant Beginnings
Question: What are these? "A long time ago in a galaxy far far away..." "It was a dark and stormy night..." "Once upon a time..." Whoever said, "Opening lines," you are correct. Any more guesses? You in the corner, hovering over the snacks. "Story starters?" Perfect! I like that. (Also, a quick thanks and credit … Continue reading Constant Beginnings
Where the Path Leads
Ask a child about their career aspirations, and the question sounds like, “What do you want to be (or do) when you grow up?” Ask an adult about their career aspirations, and the question leans more toward, “If you could do anything else, what would it be?” See the crucial difference? WHEN vs. IF. (Give … Continue reading Where the Path Leads
How To Find Lassen
First things first. This isn't about getting to Lassen Volcanic National Park. It's about finding Lassen in your heart and mind. Question? "So how do I get to Lassen?" Hmm. Maybe I wasn't clear. The purpose here is more, um, more of an emotional and hypothetical journey than a literal one. Yes, ma'am? "Are there … Continue reading How To Find Lassen
Bumpass Hikers: The Foolish
A hike to the geothermal area in Lassen Volcanic National Park known as "Bumpass Hell" in 2015 revealed a smorgasbord of hiking styles: prepared, not prepared, polite, rude, curious, oblivious, observant, selfish, selfless, etc. So let's count down the winners (and losers)! THE FOOLISH 3. THE BOY WHO CRIED "OUCH!" = In a general sense, third place goes to the many, … Continue reading Bumpass Hikers: The Foolish
Bumpass Hikers: The Bad
A hike to the geothermal area in Lassen Volcanic National Park known as "Bumpass Hell" in 2015 revealed a smorgasbord of hiking styles: prepared, not prepared, polite, rude, curious, oblivious, observant, selfish, selfless, etc. So let's count down the winners (and losers)! THE BAD 3. THE SORE WINNER = Only minutes after embarking on our hike (about a three-hour round trip), Cindy … Continue reading Bumpass Hikers: The Bad
Bumpass Hikers: The Good
A hike to the geothermal area in Lassen Volcanic National Park known as "Bumpass Hell" in 2015 revealed a smorgasbord of hiking styles: prepared, not prepared, polite, rude, curious, oblivious, observant, selfish, selfless, etc. So let's count down the winners (and losers)! THE GOOD 3. THE CHIPMUNK WHISPERER = This young girl makes the list despite breaking a cardinal rule of the … Continue reading Bumpass Hikers: The Good
Opportunity Knocks (Me Around)
Two years ago, a trip to Lassen Volcanic N.P. coalesced into a definitive experience, a perfect fusion of the right factors, the right place, and the right time. Out of that experience, I determined to refocus my writing around my passions, a decision which eventually led to this blog. The connections on that Lassen trip ultimately … Continue reading Opportunity Knocks (Me Around)
In Memorium: Peter Lassen
The grave and headstone and monument for Peter Lassen, after who Lassen Volcanic National Park was named, are located in a funky little semi-private graveyard outside Susanville, CA. You can see both to the right and left of the tree directly behind the gate. The building you see shelters the monument: The link above to his grave (California Historical … Continue reading In Memorium: Peter Lassen
Volcanic Storytelling: Introduction
An oft highlighted feature of Lassen Volcanic National Park, referenced in every description I've so far read about the park, includes a version of this claim: Represented in the park are all four types of volcanoes found in the world--shield, composite, cinder cone, and plug dome. ~ NPS Website: Lassen Volcanic National Park In contrast, check out … Continue reading Volcanic Storytelling: Introduction
Campfire Tales 