Majestic Mount Rainier

After a few days of dismal weather that included record rainfall and an extremely rare tornado in Enumclaw, yesterday dawned gorgeous. When we got Andrew and Rebekah off to school we decided to drive to Sunrise in Mount Rainier National Park for a picnic lunch and short hike. At 6,400 feet Sunrise is the highest point you can drive to in the park. It is a truly spectacular place where one feels the majesty of Mount Rainier at every turn. It is only one hour from our house and for good reason it is one of my favorite places on this earth.

All the rain from the previous few days had dropped a new coat of snow on the mountain down to about 7,500 feet. The bright sunshine, clear blue skies and new snow on the mountain made for a perfect and memorable afternoon. We ate our sandwiches on a picnic table then took the short hike (Rosie won't let me go for a long hike until I get the doctor's clearance on Friday) along the ridge above the parking area.

Most of the wildflowers that covered the meadows only a few weeks ago are gone. The meadows have turned from a verdant green to a more yellowish autumn color that is gorgeous in in its own way. There was a big bull elk making his way just below where we were hiking (this was more like slow walking than hiking). We are sad to think that in a few short weeks snow will force the closure of Sunrise for the year as it is only open for three short months July -- September most years.

We wish you could have been there with us to enjoy one of the most beautiful places in the country. These pictures will give you a flavor for the what we experienced.

It is great to be alive and able to enjoy the wonders of God's earth.