May, ca 2018

The trail today took us high into the Bitterroot Mountains to explore territories heretofore unseen by this traveler’s eyes. As sun commence its obedient appearance, we began our wanderings on the Lost Horse trail, what leads a rider into deep, lush forest and does not cease from pushing skyward until mountain’s crest. The thaw has come to these northern parts and tho mountaintops are still covered in a snowy white and creeks are flowing frothy and fast, the track was passable into them high places. 


The trail here is narrow and cut into steep slope of mountainside for its ascent, threatening rider and mount with disastrous tumble should misstep be made. But Ol’ Black Tahoe, my trusted steed, did not lose purchase as we clung close to mountain’s tall side. We made our way up through the Great Creator’s handiworks of nature, and eventually come to end point of our journey, that being Lake Como, what is tucked into them mountains and offers lovely view of peak and pure blue water.
Pausing by water’s edge to marvel again at such creations that treat a man’s eyes, we then rid down into the valley and took southerly course into the settlement of Darby, a onest rough and rugged lumber town but now a quaint community kindly catering to those who travel these western parts. A Hollywood movie star named Kevin Costner spent ample time here this summer past filming a new television program they’s calling Yellowstone. By my reckoning, landscape alone will assure program’s success. 


Bandit Brewing Co., Darby, Montana

Me and Ol’ Black Tahoe rid further into town and then reined up at the Bandit Brewing Company, named such, I am confident, for their outlaw ways of brewing the many tasty beers presented and not for the establishment’s clientele.

The barkeep here is an affable young fellow named Paul who wears his chin whiskers long and slings his suds with constant smile and genial nature. I myself am partial to the Sundog and have tipped many a mug of such. 

Paul, Bandit Brewing Co., Darby, Montana

 Having taken my fill of cold and comforting brew, I headed back to current homestead while pondering days past and previous living.

I come late to the understanding of my youth, foolishly seeking so many things that are lately revealed to possess so little meaning. Yet now, I gratefully seek nothing more than a few good friends, a river overflowing with cuts, bows and browns, and whatever it is my eyes might behold around next turn in the trail. 

I have not died today. And that is a fine thing. Yours truly…

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