I've been having some shoulder trouble past coupla years. Had surgery last spring, and some of the healing and rehab went slowly. I've just started back on physical therapy, and had an appointment this morning. The physical therapist I'd been working with last spring got transferred to an affiliated office in the Village of Angel Fire. It's up in the mountains, just over a half an hour's drive away.
This is a fabulous time of the year to head up into the mountains. The aspens are in full glory.
I gave myself the luxury of driving home on a Forest Service road, through Garcia Park and on down to town. I'd been looking forward to the amazing aspen, connected at the roots, in Garcia Park. Turns out they were already finished. But still beautiful.
Just a little lower in elevation, and more sheltered from the wind, they were still glorious. Even if they'll be finished in a week. With a little breeze, and a bunch of golden aspens, one gets the distinct impression that the air itself is shimmering with gold.
In addition to the aspen, the cottonwoods along the Rio Chiquito were in fine color.
I love this time of year. But it passes so quickly. I take that as a reminder to savor the small delights of life. Much of a good life is made up of such small things. I'm glad I took the time to come home on the back road today.