Sunday, September 26, 2010

Geologist reunion in the middle of nowhere

Appropriately, we had a small geologist's reunion at a Cambrian outcrop in west-central Utah this weekend. It was great to hang out with other paleo people, and exchange news. The drive there was a bit interesting, since my directions for the meeting place involved the rock unit they would be in, and the name of the remote canyon. I made my share of U-turns along the way, but finally turned the corner and saw their car--just where they said it would be. I spent the afternoon learning about their project and helping a little here and there.

While driving out, I saw the sunset on the pink cliffs of Bryce Canyon. (Note the yellow leaves of the cottonwood trees, which is about as much fall as comes here.) Sunday morning, I watched the sunrise over that peaceful region of pine trees, small towns and horses.


It was a long drive, but totally worth it. So nice to catch up with friends, and remember the fun we had on other field excursions.

Monday, September 20, 2010

Peaceful oblivion and the gentle roll of the lake

I have just returned from a five day field excursion on the lake full of quiet sunrises, lunchtime swim breaks, moonlit evenings...and of course a lot of hard work. I still feel like I'm on the boat right now, the gentle rise and fall with the waves.

It was such a nice break from everything--phone, email, computer, planning for the future, writing up paperwork etc. Just get up and head for the rocks! This is why I like being a geologist. =)

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Arizona wildlife

There was a tarantula on our driveway tonight! Yes I know, they are not poisonous like scorpions are, but still. So weird to see one in the wild. I would not want to run into that in the middle of the night without my glasses on...yikes!

Sunday, September 12, 2010

Cooking Contentment

Today has been peaceful. Church, errands and cooking. After months of box meals and sandwiches for dinner, it was lovely to spend all afternoon measuring, chopping, preparing. I made soup and cookies and they are delicious! Right now I am reading the Washington Post online as I eat and feeling very contented with the world at large...