Good-bye Dad

The purpose of the endeavor was twofold. 

Since the price of  huckleberries had skyrocketed to $50/gallon, Bruce thought we should just go pick our own  AND he thought we should try our luck on Government Mtn.  Now, Government Mountain is the mountain my parents beheld from the back porch of their home on Bull River (My mother used to call it Bettina, because she thought the ridge-line looked like an Indian maiden asleep on her back).  Because of the significance to the family, we thought this would be the perfect opportunity and place to spread some of Dad's ashes.  So, off we went.

Ask anyone who knows me, and they'll tell you I'm not a big fan of Forest Service roads.  This one was no exception, with hairpin curves, sheer drop offs, deep ruts, and dust that threatened to choke you. At one point, we met a car coming down, and were forced to back up the truck until the narrow path widened enough for the other vehicle to squeeze by us. EEK! BUT the scenery was breathtaking.

and the wildflowers were still in bloom.

 

Indian Paintbrush

(anyone know the name of this yellow flower?)

and my favorite....

fireweed.

We stopped to look at this magnificent view, and noticed this...

 a small, handmade marker.
Bruce and I looked at each other, and turned to look over the impressive panorama.  I think we both came to the conclusion, simultaneously, that Bob, be he man or beast, would be good company for Dad, and that Dad would be pleased to share this spot for all eternity.

With prayers of gratitude, and great love, we released Dad to the wind, the trees, the mountains.

We love you, Dad.  Show him the ropes, Bob.

We drove awhile- quiet with our thoughts.

Bruce pointed out how close we were to my Mom and Dad's old house, Windrush.  Just over that mountain ridge.

It looked like a good place to pick huckleberries...

and so, we started in...

We picked about an hour and a half before our old backs couldn't take it anymore!

Our hands were PURPLE! LOL!

but, we got a good haul- probably a gallon!

It was time to head back home-
I feel good knowing where Dad is- knowing he would approve.  He's close to Mom, close to the home he loved, and is now, roaming the woods and mountains he cherished once again.
Good-bye, Dad.
We'll visit soon.