4: Elk

Dear Friend,

Happy first day of February. Tomorrow, guided by Ground Hog Wisdom, we’ll discover how much more winter weather to expect this year.

What does that information do for you, personally? And, when you hear that the Ground Hog predicts an early spring or longer winter, does it change the way you feel about the furry little messenger?  

Speaking of How Some Information Can Change The Way We Feel:

When news is mostly ‘bad,’ it may seem inappropriate to wish someone a ‘Happy’ anything. But I (for one) hope that you’ll continue to enjoy the beauty in a sunset, the profile of your puppy’s face, delight as you bask in moonbeams, the warmth of your loved one’s voice, music, the purr of your cat… feel ok when so many things aren’t ok … what, and who, does it help if we quash the goodnesses? Even though your smiles and caring gestures rarely make the news, they nurture peace, and are a balm for fear and pain. It all adds up for goodness’ sake.

On this journey, we’ve met quite a few people from around the world. Love of nature is a commonality, as is the endeavor to communicate and to just be together, standing side by side, enjoying the company and the view, in silence. 

During our recent winter visit to the Grand Canyon, Frank and his camera spent many mornings and evenings out in the elements, capturing images to share.  

On the walking paths between the Canyon and the campground...

...there were often locals, minding their own business... while wondering about ours.

Though they appear to be happy, long-time residents, Elk are not ‘native’ to this part of the country. According to the National Park Service (NPS), Elk were moved to Arizona from Yellowstone National Park between 1913 and 1928. The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is home to some of the descendants of these Rocky Mountain Elk.

(The NPS warns that Elk are the most dangerous animal at the Grand Canyon. There are many accounts of elk injuring people, these were people that chose to approach the elk, whether they sought them out or encountered them by chance). It isn’t a bad idea to remember that all wild animals are calmer when they aren’t cornered. Elk cows, like the ones in Frank’s photos, weigh between 500 and 600 pounds. They can be between 6 and 8 feet long and over 4 feet high at their shoulders. The NPS recommends staying the safe distance of two-bus-lengths away from elk. (Frank stays back and uses his long-lensed-camera, and, as you probably are aware, is mostly just an all-around, polite guy).

We are grateful that you are here, reading Tracks by the Post, thank you!

It is awesome to receive emails from you, so if you’d like to Write to Us, please do! We’d love to hear your comments about Ground Hog Day or about your experience with Dangerously Cute Elk &/or send us a photo of your puppy’s profile!

Wishing you peace.

Gently Be,

Leslie and Frank