Monday, December 31, 2007 I took some time today to do a few Geocaches hoping to bring my total for this year to 100. Molly and I found 4 of the 5 caches we needed but gave up as the sun was going down and the wind started to blow making it less fun. Oh well! It's not always about the numbers;-) Had a great time on this last day of 2007. Posted by Craig

Saturday, December 29, 2007 Molly and I spend a lot of time hiking around Northridge Park near our home in Highlands Ranch. Northridge Park, and it's adjoining parks, make up nearly 300 acres of open space, with miles of trails and sidewalk. Over the years we have seen much wildlife and birds,photographing many. Today we were blessed again when a Coyote came within 50 yd's of us. It took me a bit to get my camera out but I still managed to get a couple of shots. We have been told by other residents that the Coyotes are aggressive and have even stolen small pets right off the leash. The story sounds unlikely, but Molly and I have had several occasions where coyotes have come very close to us. Molly even leapt upon one hiding in the weeds off the trail. So if you see us on our daily hike you will note that I carry a walking staff, just in case. Posted by Craig

Friday, December 28, 2007 Molly and I spent the afternoon hiking in the forest at Chatfield State Park. The forest always dampens distant sound but with a powdery snow, its effect is magnified, making the whole scene quiet and peaceful. Some areas had over 12" of snow but mostly under 10". Molly's arch nemesis, the squirrel,  chattered in the trees above, sending out an alarm to all small creatures to be on the lookout. At the dog training area Molly played with her own kind, running in the deep snow with great enthusiasm, leaving all her friends in the distance. Though the temperature barely made it over 20°, I felt warmed by the sun and the beauty around me. What a wonderful time spent with my best friend. Posted by Craig