Monday, May 27/2013

John and I had planned on a quad ride today so once again we loaded up and headed out.  I don't think Hogan is too impressed with us leaving him behind.  John thinks he is going to somehow rig up something so that he is able to ride behind one of us.  That could be harder than what he expects as Hogan is not too enthused about climbing onto the quad since I dumped him off it last year and he skidded across the road on his chin.  It was an accident...ok!!
We headed down the road towards 'The Block" making our first stop at the little white church to pay our respects to the dead.  It has become a tradition to make this our first beverage stop.  Even the dead, I imagine, enjoy a cold beer!!  At least in my Heaven they do!!
We then continued into the block stopping along the way to pick up cans and bottles discarded by careless quadders or snowmobilers.  John and I have decided to use the money we get from all the cans towards our gas for the season.  We might just as well let others pay for some of our gas!!
Once again, we were surprised at just how little mud and water was lying in the trails.  We maneuvered ourselves through the trail without any difficulty and found our next beverage stop at Deer Lake.  It was beautiful and quiet and the trout that inhabit the lake we jumping and enjoying all kinds of bug treats!!  It was good to be back in the forest.  Well, except for the damn mosquitoes who seemed to just come in swarms.  Thank Heavens for 40% Deet!!
The trail along the lake was easily passable and we soon found ourselves at the Otter Lake Trail.  We decided to to check out this trail and 30 minutes later, were enjoying another refreshment break on the shores of Otter Lake.  What a great day in the forest.  The lake itself was much lower than what  I expected, but it was certainly still pretty and once again, oh so peaceful.
We headed back towards home, taking the "upper" detour along Deer Lake and once again stopping at the boat launch.  We then continued out of the block and decided to take 3 Mile

At the Church

Deer Lake

Winding our way down the trail to Otter Lake

Marie at Otter Lake

Little Island in the middle of Otter Lake

Beaver Lodge on Otter Lake

Stopped along Beau Creek on the way out

Two Sand Hill Cranes in the distance

trail home.  Lots of water remains on this trail but we managed without incident.
Our last stop of course was the grid and then it was home to the bus.  Another good day in the forest was behind us.
John cooked ribs on the BBQ and it was accompanied by rice and broccoli.   Mmmmm....what a great way to end an awesome day.
I have to plant the garden tomorrow since I did not quite get around to it today and the dandelions think they have found a permanent home.  My Killex will certainly put a crimp in their style tomorrow as well!!