We have been back in Big Sky country for only a month and we have to admit, it feels pretty good. We recently had the pleasure of playing the Reach, Inc. benefit up at Big Sky resort and it was a spectacular day. Reach, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization that provides services and empowerment to adults with disabilities, and they've been doing so here in Bozeman since 1974. They recently held their last "Trek to the Big Sky" benefit and we were lucky enough to be their mountain top entertainment. Hikers received pledges from their friends to hike 3 miles up the mountain on what turned out to be a perfect day. At the top they got a picnic lunch, some live music, and beautiful views of Madison County. If they got $150 in pledges from their supporters, the hikers also got a free ski pass or golf pass at the resort. It was a successful and beautiful day, and a great glimpse into an awesome community. We are honored to be a part of it.So it turns out, you can't swing a BPA-free water bottle around here without hitting a gorgeous view and a bunch of toned, slobbering Labradors. I sometimes remember all at once that I have many bucolic needs, and now, here, they're satisfied on a daily basis. And the best part about it is that when you see other people enjoying the same space out there in the hills, you all share a goofy grin and most of those folks are friendly as can be. The smiles are for obvious reasons: we're all out of the house and the weather is gorgeous. Recently, I was enjoying a little hike up to the "M" which is a popular, quick hike just outside of town that overlooks the whole valley. I was sitting at the top on a nice bench, enjoying the morning view, when a loud, coarse rustling above me turned into an eery silence and then a beautiful sight:
Two paragliders flew right over my head and did a long, graceful descent into a field below. Motorists gave friendly honks and it seemed liked everyone on the mountain just froze for a few minutes and grew quiet. It was a hell of a way to start the day. A truck in the parking lot clued me into the strangers that put me in such a good mood: www.bozemanparagliding.com.So I'm diggin' this summer. And I thought, while I'm inspired to say so, I'd remind you all to get out of the house, too. Go fly a kite. Go swing on the monkey bars meant for children. Take a walk. Even if it's just to the city park around the corner or even if it requires a short drive. Tis the season for dirty feet.
See you out there.