I drove to Nebraska in early July, 2011. My Mother was ill and had been in a nursing faciility since March. I arrived just in the nick of time and only had a few days with Mom before she became unresponsive. She passed away on my way back to Arizona, only an hour or so after I'd talked to my sister letting her know I was almost home... It was a very sad trip. But I was so glad I was able to see Mom before she passed. It was also really good to see my sister and her husband. They were wonderful. I love you both!

This shot, in central Colorado, was taken on the first night headed back to Arizona. I camped along a silted-up, beaver pond below Monarch Pass. The campground was full so I found a place just off the campround entry road. It was gorgeous.

I missed the really good light walking the dogs. I rushed back and took a few quick shots. I wouldn't normally take a shot with a big road cut in a hillside like this... but Colorado happens just off the road. And is incredibly beautiful.

After a pleasant night in the tent, we got an early start and headed up the road to the 11, 312 foot Monarch pass.