Burned.

So, the inconsistency of the internet here is almost a clear explanation of how life itself unfolds here in Yellowstone.

Yet...every day provides unexpected turns. Every hour of work, definitely a challenge. Every hike, an adventure. And hopefully, all of this will add a bit more to my story.

Today I stepped off the trail after my 66th mile hiked while I have lived, eat, slept, worked, and breathed in YNP. It takes everything in me to take days off to sit and rest. There is just so much wilderness to be conquered.

I have seen a grizzly. We came across it while hiking in the backcountry. However, we scared it off with our own ferocity. (That can be interpreted however you please.)

Our services went really well on Sunday. Now everyone has a better knowledge of what to expect. I will have to remind Shannon next time to capo that one hymn. Whew! I didn't think I was going to make it throught the high octave. However, I think the Gospel message was clear. That's all I really care about.

I'll end on this. Today, we were on a 13 mile hike through the bottom of the Howard Eaton trail. After just a few miles, we began to walk slowly through what was once forest before but now completely destroyed by the fire of '88. Barren and desolate, the land just remains as is. Untouched by civilization, the National Park Service has done everything they can to let the natural processes take over. However, it was intriguing to me to see the life that continued to dwell there and the new growth that is spreading through these various parts of the land.

Being refined by fire in my walk with Jesus during these past few weeks hurts immensely. But He has told me the new will come. Though the ashes remain, when He establishes the abundant life He came for into our lives, people will be intrigued. They will see the ashes but smell the new growth. I encourage you, don't fear the fire. Just walk forward.

Why I haven't seen a grizzly yet. Yet.

I cannot remember a day yet during which I have not heard a conversation about a bear sighting, often within feet of Lake village. However, I am still not convinced that the grizzlies roam as wild and free as some might lead on. At least, they haven't invited me to any of their den parties yet.

You might be thinking, "Why would she want to see a bear? Or come close to it for that matter?"

Well, here are the reasons why I believe I haven't seen one yet.

Top reason: I work a lot. My many hours awake are often spent roasting beets or stirring fruit compote. I cannot even pronounce half of the dishes I serve on the line, but of course this just adds a bit of a challenge in the mix. I do love my job though. Each day has increased my cooking vocabulary enough to hold my own in a kitchen full of trained professionals. I must add that it is while I am doing these lovely things thats Mrs. Grizzly and her cub are lounging by Fishing bridge just two miles down the road.

Second reason: When I'm not working, I am hiking. Now you might say, "Well, you should see a bear easily on the trail." I respond: I have even seen the clear tracks. But not the bear. Maybe we sing too much or talk too loudly (which is the most encouraged way to warn a bear of your approach.) Amber and I have a contest going concerning who can become friends with a bear first. Unfortunately, I have to meet one to make a friend.

Last reason: I never carry a snickers with me. To some bears, this could be worth their time.

So, my goal: To see a grizzly. You might have your opinion as to what "type" of encounter might be the best, but I will leave that part open ended.

And for all you who could care less about grizzlies (which would be ridiculous!)...We start our services Sunday morning with ACMNP. We are all soo excited about the many convos taking place and the challenge we find here of what it means to love the heck out of people. Can I highlight the word "challenge"?