Weather Forecasts

Last winter we barely saw the sun. Blue was more often our mood than the color of the sky. However, back to back snow storms blanketed our landscape in a liberal cover of white, blessing us with one of the best snow years in recent history.

Then, of course, that winter to remember had a hard time letting us go. Not until June did the sun finally win the battle and sunshine and blue skies returned to delight our days. Our world turned from brown and white to a virtual kaleidoscope of color almost overnight.

I am not big on weather forecasters. I continue to stand amazed that someone so seemingly inept at their job continues to get paid. Furthermore, people actually continue to believe what they say.

Me, I look out the window in the morning. That is my weather forecast. It is rarely wrong. Are there clouds? Probably at least partly cloudy today. Is the sky an unmarked blue? Probably sunny today. Is it mid-June with a growing cloud bank on the horizon? Better plan on a thunderstorm. Is the sky heavy and dark? Expect some weather today.

It is a simplistic system. It does not work well for predicting future weather patterns. Besides it does not give me a clue what is happening underneath other ‘patches of sky', but it is usually quite accurate for that particular day under my particular ‘patch of sky'.

So, I look to the sky and I see lots of blue, or maybe some light clouds, and I figure we are not getting any snow today. Quite frankly, I figure we had winter until almost summer, and we complained. I supposed winter's delay is just recompense for our lack of gratitude last spring.

One way or the other, winter is bound to come. How much snow we get, well, that is Someone else's hands. Regardless, God is in heaven. All is right with the world (even if it sometimes seems otherwise). And, I am thankful to remain the

Lady of the Lake

All Nature Sings. . .

This has been a special fall for me. While it is my fifth at Elk Lake, it is the first I have actually spent here. Family obligations and other demands have found us elsewhere. However, this year we have spent many enjoyable days watching the Centennial Valley change from late fall to early winter.

While things are still not very ‘white', the miracle around me has been amazing to observe. I have enjoyed the return of the elk (who wander farther up the mountain during the summer's heat), and I have enjoyed a few experiences I did not even know I was missing. Dozens of Trumpeter swans lining the ice along an open patch of water. Glimpses of rabbits in their winter white and tracks in abundance. The return of the moose. However, my most incredible fall experience is not in what I've seen, but in what I've heard.

"This is my Father's world, and to my listening ears,
all nature sings and round me rings, the music of the spheres."

Maltbie Babcock loved God's creation. How can I be so sure? While some would recognize creation's visual beauty, others its diversity, still others its vastness, Babcock begins his famous hymn speaking of creation's voice.

I can honestly say I relish my time up close and personal with God's creation. With repeated exposure I have learned to look deeper, to see some of the intricacies of this marvelous planet we call home for awhile. I've learned to see. Now, I'm learning to hear.

Other creature's voices. A lone coyote or a chorus in four-part harmony. The howling wolves letting us know they are near. Elk bugling their challenge across the canyon. A fox's eery bark. Eagles screaming upon the wind. Sandhills warbling encouragement to their companions. Trumpeter Swans sounding their horn to a listening world.

And the smaller sounds. A wren trilling her morning praise. The wind, whispering in near silence or roaring as a storm passes through. The croaking frogs. The chirping crickets. The tiny spring which giggles quietly as it slips down the hill.

All this and more I have learned to hear. And as I have listened, new sounds have been added to my repertoire. The latest and most amazing - the voice of lake ice.

In previous winters I have been blessed to hear the muted deep bass boom of ice, cracking under its mantel of snow. Recently I have heard the resounding deep bass boom of snow free ice echoing its voice from the nearby hills.

However, the last few days I enjoyed the most amazing sound of all. The warbling wave of the ice's soprano voice, elevated and diminished as it moved back and forth just under the surface. What an amazing sound! What an amazing Creator!

Lady of the Lake

WHAT???

I try to keep these blog postings up beat. I really do. However, there are times when the press is sooooo biased and, although I doubt anyone reads this blog who disagrees with me (at least in general), I can't help feeling like the issues need a little balance.

For every 12 articles supporting the green movement, there might be one (in the mainstream press) which gives the other side a voice. This week, the Bozeman Daily Chronicle finally gave West Yellowstone business owners a chance to share their side of the story. Sadly, I fear, as usual it is much too little and much too late!

To add insult to injury, online newspapers allow, even encourage reader feedback. While this is a good idea, in principle, the feedback often amounts to nothing more than a spitting match.

Take the response to this particular Chronicle article. It started out with two comments from folks who obviously understood the concerns expressed by West Yellowstone business owners. However, it degenerated rapidly when a reader accused Yellowstone snowmobile visitors as being 'Me' centered and lazy.

Add the addition of a little inappropriate language and the writer had the desired result. Other respondents lost their cool, and it degenerated from there. Why? The only purpose this served was to reinforce my belief this whole 'environmental' issue is not really about what is best but who has the most power.

Before I go any further, let me clarify something. I do NOT go looking for articles to increase my frustration. I would much prefer to stay at Elk Lake and let the rest of the world go to hell in a handbasket if they so desired. However, I know if everyone practiced this mentality, it would only serve to increase our traveling speed - so I believe, if nothing else, I have a moral responsibility to at least speak to the issues in a peaceable and (hopefully) reasonable manner.

On the other hand, I do go looking for articles to keep Elk Lake's friends and guests up to date on the happenings in our area. My sources are usually the Island Park News and The Magic of Yellowstone. Elizabeth, The Island Park News editor, does a good job of staying on top of local issues. I also feel she works hard to present a fair and balance (albeit not always politically correct) news presentation.

The Magic of Yellowstone is my other source of area news. Jim McDonald, while much greener than Elizabeth, keeps the interested world up to date about recent Yellowstone news articles related to the area.

So, on to another article. This article is, I believe, a good example of current 'reporting'. It comes from the Jackson Hole News and Guide. This particular article speaks to green group's fears of what may occur during the last days of the Bush administration, and how much, in their words, 'inordinate impact on public lands' those acts will have.

While the basic premise of the article may be correct, the current administration may be working to 'enact policy' changes as their time comes to a close, the author's bias is so clearly set in the article's opening paragraph, it makes one wonder why he bothered to call his piece 'reporting'.

In the opening paragraph, Mr. Hatch says, "After eight years of government that unabashedly placed development over conservation and recreation over environment. . ." I'm not sure where Mr. Hatch lives, but one thing which has NOT happened in the vast majority of Idaho and Montana in recent years is an emphasis on recreation over environment.

While the Bush administration may have been pro-development and pro-recreation, the environmental groups have quite successfully locked up most pro-recreation and pro-development moves in the tri-state area. Since Jackson is in the tri-state area, I am surprised Mr. Hatch did not bother to get any input from the other side.

I should not be. This 'my agenda' reporting seems to represent the new definition in news these days. Maybe that is why so many Americans are turning away from the mainstream media?

One way or the other, only one side (the green side) gets much press time these
days. While I do not disagree with the green agenda in all areas, there
needs to be some balanced presentation. Otherwise people like 'Mr. Me',
the reader who commented on the Bozeman Daily Chronicle's article above,
will continue to feel that "he who shouts the loudest is right"

So the world continues. Who knows? Things may be worse before they get better. One way or the other, I will continue waking up in one of the most beautiful and peaceful places on God's green earth. And, for as long as I can, I hope to remain the

Lady of the Lake

It's Sure Nice To Be Loved!

It really is nice to be loved. I'm not sure there is a greater gift we can receive than the unconditional love of another person. Child to parent. Parent to child. Spouse to spouse. Siblings. Friends. Our lives are enriched by other people's love. However, my use of the statement today is actually intended to be a bit more tongue-in-cheek.

With the continued controversy raging around snowmobile access in Yellowstone National Park, it is more than a bit frustrating to hear absolutely NOTHING about how this affects the businesses surrounding the Park. You'd think it would at least matter!

After all, with all the dire predictions related to economic downturns and recession which populate the news these days, you'd think there would be a least a 'hint' of concern about how these yo-yo decisions are going to effect the local businesses. Besides, we just elected a president who said, loud and clear, he is for the little guy (that means me, right?). So this implies the American public, as a whole, is concerned about the little guy (me). Right??? And, with the bottom expected to drop out of our financial world, they are naturally concerned that as many businesses as possible (especially the Mom and Pop - little guy types) survive. Right????

With all this love, compassion and concern floating around, I really expected to feel more warm fuzzies!

All it really proves is: Talk is cheap. Words are weapons. Rhetoric is a lot of hot air. The reality is - no one who has a voice in this battle over winter access to Yellowstone National Park gives two-cents whether one or a dozen businesses fall under the axe of 'environmental protection' or whatever the politically correct catch phrase is here.

And, should West Yellowstone, Island Park, Cooke City, Gardner, or even Jackson Hole businesses fall under the trampling feet of 'progress' or 'conservation' will the government be there with the needed funds to bail them out? Get real! Those of us in the trenches know better. We are on our own!

Before you think I'm in a major funk, I'm rubbing together my last two dimes, or I'm scared for my future - let me clarify. I'm frustrated by the injustic which surrounds me. I'm tired of all the empty rhetoric. I'm sick of working my butt off so the government can 'spread my wealth' around. And what is happening in Yellowstone National Park is just a micro-chasm of what is happening across our once-great country.

I thank God every day our business is still doing fine. We aren't asking for handouts. Instead we are trying to make wise financial deicisions which, Lord willing, will carry us through this mess that our government, in all its 'corporate' wisdom, has gotten us into.

While the storm rages around, I am thankful daily I can live surrounded by the peace, quiet, and beauty of Elk Lake. Now more than ever I am blessed to be the

Lady of the Lake

Lions and Wolves and Bears, Oh My!

All the rhetoric surrounding the fight against delisting wolves is almost overwhelming. Especially when you look beyond the overflowing words and see the mis-representations and outright lies which we call 'news' these days.

After all, while some would have us believe the future of wolves in the lower 48 is still uncertain, where is the scientific 'proof' to support the conservation groups' claims wolves may become inbred? They seem to consist mostly of speculative rhetoric. On the other hand, there are plenty of facts, the ones we never hear, suggesting just the opposite.

In the areas surrounding Yellowstone National Park, much work has been done to create wildlife corridors - particularly moving north betweem Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park and on into Canada. These corridors ensure animals the opportunity to move freely throughout the tri-state area with little to no restrictions. Therefore, the wolves in and around Yellowstone are by no means cut-off from the rest of the world as some would have us believe.

Furthermore, the offspring of the three original packs planted in YNP just 13 years ago have now spread throughout much of the west. In July 2008, Washington State confirmed it had a resident wolf pack. A pack has been confirmed in Union County, Oregon. A wolf pack was spotted earlier this year in NE Utah. And, of course there are numerous confirmed wolf packs in Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. Thus, the wolf, itself, has proven not only its reproductive abilities, but also its ability to travel where it wants when it wants.

Since wolves were only eradicated in the lower 48 through intense hunting by bounty hunters paid to do the job, it seems highly unlikely the occassional killing by a rancher, even an occassionally illegally killed wolf combined with controlled hunting situations (where the hunter pays for the license instead of being paid for the deed) as have been proposed in the Rocky Mountain Region will seriously (or even modestly) threaten the future health and existence of wolves in the lower 48.

Sadly it seems the loudest voices are often the only ones heard. In addition, we all know money talks. Thus, whether the voice of the 'common' man is heard, or not, is still in question. However, I would like to suggest a way to balance our country's understanding of the wolf's resiliance.

I propose we transplant three wolf packs intp Central Park (or the Appalachians, if Central Park is a little to close to 'home'). Given the same degree of protection they have enjoyed in the west, I believe they would find the local pets would supplement the lack of wild game quite well. This plan would certainly give our east coast friends the chance to hear, and see, a wolf in their own backyards - something they apparently find very appealing. Besides, I do not believe anyone can argue the wolf is native to that portion of the country as well.

While my above comments will probably get me labled as cynical (at best) and a wolf-hater (at what I hope would be the worst name-calling), neither could be further from the truth. Unlike many who are crying 'wolf' when it comes to the Rocky Mountain area's delisting efforts, I've yet to hear the east coast majority factor begging to have the animals released in their backyard.

Furthermore, the whole wolf re-introduction process, from the start to present, has been fueled by underestimated numbers, half-truths, and outright lies. Name-calling and plain old rudeness have dominated both sides of the debate. Few have looked at the science - the facts - behind the scenes. That is what I'd like to see.

But, in keeping with the 'new' American science, it isn't the 'facts' which count. It isn't reality we're looking to find. It isn't even an educated guess we want to hear. Instead our wildlife management has taken on the look of a two-ring political circus!

For example, did you know there are over 765 Grizzlies in NW Montana alone? This is more than 2 1/2 times the amount previously estimated to live in the 7.8 million acre Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem. This is a scientific fact proven using DNA testing.

As this area makes up less than 12% of the state, how many do you suppose are in the state? Maybe a whole lot more than we've been led to believe?

Here's another scientific fact! When you read there are about 650 wolves in Idaho, for example, that is an estimate! In other words, no one has gone out there and counted the number of wolves.

Currently estimates are determined using the numbers of wolves which are radio-collared or the numbers in packs which include a radio-collared animal. So I ask, what happens to the un-collared pups, yearlings, and wolves which peel leave these packs? Do you really think the ground opens and swallows them up? Of course not. Where do you think the 'surprise' packs found in previous non-wolf states like Washington and Oregon are coming from? Seems plain to me.

Two studies in Alaska, where not surprisingly, there is increasing pressure to shut down aerial wolf hunting are very reveling. Remember, these are facts based on valid and intelligent science. (By the way, have you ever been to Alaska? A lot of it looks kinda like NW Montana - thick. If we can loose that many Grizzly in NW Montana, what makes us think we'd be able to keep track of the wolves?)

The first study conducted in Denali National Park has shown just how far estimated numbers are from reflecting reality. Biologists (scientists not activists or lawyers) found that by using the method described above (the one used in the lower 48 based on collared wolves) they were actually underestimating the actual wolf numbers by 50%!

Furthermore, the results of a six-year study in Alaska's Central Brooks Range conducted by 5 scientists showed even with a liberal hunters' harvest (around 29%), the wolf population suffered no impact.

These are the facts, folks. These are proven. They were conducted by qualified professionals. They are available for you to read. So, why aren't they common knowledge? Why do we still see video clips of cuddly little wolf pups, bear cubs, or mountain lion kittens (another animal whose numbers are surrounded by half-truths and outright lies) as if they were no different from the puppy or kitten your child cuddles to his chest? Why do conservation groups want us to treat these animals as 'special' 'wild' animals while presenting them as friendly, cute backyard pets?

I have decided, in general, American's have been trained to prefer the sensational. We like the to be entertained. We like to 'feel' involved - even if it is just in mud-slinging and empty talk. Sometimes I fear we do not even care whether we are given the facts - just as like as we find it interesting.

I am afraid most of what we are given is just a slight-of-hand. A faster-than-the-eye-can-see trick. A Red-Riding Hood's wolf dressed in Grandma's clothes. A lie as old as time. Sadly, it is also the force shaping the future of the west. It makes me wonder what kind of world, in spite of our good intentions, we are shaping for our grandchildren and great-grandchildren. I suspect it is far from what they would want.

As I continue to relish the benefits of living in nature's real world, I sure hope the rest of mankind will awaken from their stupor and start working to preserve everything I consider to be the best from my viewpoint as the

Lady of the Lake

Boys Should Be Boys!

I am sure it comes as no surprise, at least to those of you who have read many of my past blogs, when I say, "Boys should be boys"! In fact, I will go a step further, "Children should be allowed to be children".

It also will not surprise those who know me when I clarify that to mean - children should be allowed to run and play and scream and yell and have loads of wild and crazy fun - within the boundaries of safety and courtesy.

The sad thing is, I think we've grown so accustomed to seeing our children (and others) playing quietly with their gameboys, sitting at their school desks, watching their movies, or whatever "quiet and controlled" activities they are currently pursuing we think this is normal.

BUT, think about it. What do we want these children to be when they grow up. Overweight? Under motivated? Non communicative? Lacking drive? Passion? Imagination?

Certainly not! And, yet, isn't that the world we are consigning them to? Granted there are places for movies, school desks, and, yes, maybe even gameboys, however, I truly believe this should be the rarity, not the norm - especially among our young children. Yet, when I hear someone call a normal, active, inquisitive young child "overactive" or even "ADHD" it makes my hair stand on end. Granted, I believe children need to exercise self-control. As parents we are responsible to teach our children self-control, courtesy, kindness, and concern for others. But, this does not remove or reduce their need for pure and natural imaginative play. Nor should it. The two are not polar opposites!

That means there is a place to be loud. There is a place to run, jump, skip, climb, yell. There is a place for mock sword fights, pretend gun battles, and even imaginary wild horse ropings! Our children NEED this kind of play. It feeds their imaginations, strengthens their bodies, relieves their stress (yes, our children feel stress, too) and opens their minds.

After all, if we want our boys equipped to fight real world battles, they need to win a few imaginary ones in the great outdoors. If we want our girls to stand strong in a world looking to exploit them, they need to have faced a few child-sized challenges in the world outside their doors.

The focus is not to 'be seen but not heard'. I thought we'd cleared that up in our parent's day. Apparently not. It is back wearing a politically correct face - and more dangerous than ever. Childhood is about playing hard - getting muddy - climbing trees - chasing squirrels or rabbits or the dog - winning imaginary battles! It is about being a child!

Of course, in my mind there is NO better place to be a child (or adult, for that matter) than surrounded by the pure nature and fresh air here at Elk Lake. So, I have yet another reason to be glad that for this time in life I have the privilege of being the

Lady of the Lake

Winter Is Sliding Into Place

Although the weather is still quite pleasant and the colors are incredible, fresh snow on the mountains and fresh mud on the road bring to mind the changing seasons. I have no cause for complaint (as if I ever do), however, because we have just finished enjoying the most incredible Indian Summer of our sojourn here at Elk Lake.

Day after day of warm temperatures and glassy waters. Night after night of frost on the pumpkin (well, around here it's the ATV seat). Day after day of brilliant color everywhere you turn your gaze. Incredible!

But the last few days have brought change on the wind. More leaves on the ground. More snow on the mountains. And, as is inevitable this time of year, more mud on the roads - well, from the looks of my rig, more mud on my vehicle!

Nonetheless, the beauty and serenity at Elk Lake only increase this time of year. Fewer people are around. Many animals and birds are leaving, but many remain. And, those that remain can be more vocal - maybe rounding up the troops for the trip south?

Speaking of vocal - have you ever really thought about the 'sounds' of nature? I've talked several times about the intense quiet which can envelop our world up here. However, as the days shorten, my daily walks become more like 'weels'. What's a weel? It's a walk in the dark (or semi-dark) which has me feeling my way along at times.

Obviously there isn't much to see on one of my semi-dark walks. So, I've found increased use for another sense common to man - my hearing. It's amazing what is happening in the wild kingdom as the morning approaches.

Some days it's like a vacume has swallowed up all sound. Nothing stirs. Nothing peeps.

Other days it's amazing to listen as the first tentative voices grow in volume and more voices join the chorus. In the last few weeks I've heard elk bugling, wolves howling, cows lowing (or mooing), a horse nicker (that one had me going - who on earth was riding this far in that early
in the morning?), an owl hooting, geese honking, ducks flapping and quaking, and small birds twittering.

Sometimes I wonder how much we really catch. It really isn't about what we miss - that is gone - it's about what we catch. I fear we manage to grasp far too little as we scurry from one thing to the next until the end of our days. However, as always, I am amazed at the wonder just outside
my door - and I'm ever thankful to be the,

Lady of the Lake

Fall's Hand in The Paint Pot

I can remember listening as a child to my father talking about fall. He'd speak of the season's colors and the magical changes which occurred that time of year. I couldn't see it. Of course, it didn't help I lived in a place where the summer sun scorched things to a dull brown long before fall's colors arrived. Thus, to my eyes, a few more things 'dying' wasn't lovely. It was tragic!

Funny how perspectives change. My perspectives on fall changed when we moved to a bit wetter climate. One where you could enjoy the colors of fall against a moderately green backdrop. As the years passed I found I'd adopted my father's ideas. Of course, it took me many more years (and a move to yet another climate zone) to appreciate the beauty of spring. But, that's a different subject, maybe one to be covered say, next April or May!

But, before continuing on this 'fall' theme, I can't resist sharing my musings on another perspective. Quiet! At Elk Lake, one of the things I treasure is the quiet. To some of our guests, it can be almost unnerving. Some relish it with the same intensity as I. Others, well, they really don't hear it. They think they do, but it isn't hard to tell they really don't.

What makes their lack of understanding so obvious? The statement - "It's quiet where I live too" (and they've all ready said they live in '......' town). I just smile and scratch my head. Sure. Whatever.

It's all in your perspective! Have you ever stood outside your front door and really listened? I mean, do NOTHING, just listen. What can you hear? Well, if you live in ANY place where there are other people, no matter how few, you can probably hear (at least) a dog barking, a lawnmower, a door slamming, a radio, a motor reving, a shout or laugh or bits of conversation floating on the breeze. It's natural. We do not exist without making noise. Nor should we expect to.

But, when you come to someplace this remote, you lose all of that. Five minutes up Narrows Creek, I'm guaranteed NO sounds but the wind in the trees, the bird's chirping nearby, and, if I'm lucky the voice of some other more rare critter. That's normal for here. In fact, this time of year, stepping out on my deck often provides the same.

So, when someone tells me it's quiet where they live too (and they live anywhere 'normal'), I know immediately we don't have the same perspective - AND - we don't 'hear' the same either.

Off my soap box - back to the fall's beauty. As I've learned more about the plants growing in my backyard, I've also made the 'duh' realization they don't look the same all year. Most of the photos I've shared were taken in the late spring and early summer. Plants in full bloom. However, this is just a short portion of their life-cycle. Thus, I've also been trying to identify these same plants as they make their transition into fall (although some are already long gone).

For example, Sticky Gernamium. Although the pretty purple flowers are a delight to view throughout much of summer, the geranium leaves add a delightful brilliant red to our fall landscape. Wood's Rose also adds brilliant red color splashes to the varigated fall yellows. And, the rose hips aren't the only contributors. The foliage turns a brilliant red which accentuates the beautifully shaped leaves (something I didn't notice when I photographed the summer flowers).

Then there is the Serviceberry. Keeping to its tradition of looking much like a small aspen, its leaves also turn a beautiful shade of yellow this time of year. Even more impressive are the Goozeberries. Their leaf shaped, combined with their moderate height and their brilliant red foliage remind me of a Cascade Oregon mountain favoriate - Viney Maple. Even the Rabbitbrush contributes a 'different' kind of beauty to fall - with puffy white seed heads covering a large bush, they can be quite impressive!

Of course I'm an obvious aspen lover - I love the way they look, spring, summer, fall, or winter. However, I must admit when they put on their showy fall display of reds and yellows, I fall in love all over again!

Not to be left out, the willows, although one of the last to join the color parade, add some lovely shades of yellow after serving as a green backdrop to the quicker-to-show-off aspens.

So, have you identified which of the plants listed above are shown in this blog?

And so, the magical fall play enters the second act. And, although the animals are still not as visible as I'd like, they're are getting more vocal. In fact, a few mornings ago I heard wolves howling - only the second time ever since moving to Montana's mountains. I must admit, as irritated as I get over the lack of wolf management, I still thrill to hear them nearby. Of course, the elk didn't appreciate it as much. They've been silent ever since!

From my perspective - there is nothing but delight to be had from fall's colors and sounds on display in my backyard!

Lady of the Lake

The Setting Full Moon of Summer

Where on EARTH does the time go? Although I have faithfully managed to regularly post to our blog this summer, I finally succumbed to my crazy schedule. Thus, I apologize to my faithful readers for making you wait.

My flower / plant studies continue. However, the process is getting harder - thus more time consuming. As I narrow down my unidentified plants, I'm finding more and more which I can not identify with the resources on hand. It makes me wonder if I've managed to capture some rare and unique species growing in my back yard. Probably not! It's fun to speculate none-the-less.

Well, the summer season is drawing to a close. Labor Day's snow put an early winter in mind. Fortunately that wasn't exactly what it meant - at least not exactly yet! The last few days have described the phrase, "Indian Summer" to a "T". Warm (upper 60's to low 70's). Sunny. Crisp mornings (mid to low 20's). Elk Bugling. Geese in "V" formation heading south. Leaves turning to gold and ruddy red. Rose hips deepening their colors. Quiet! Fewer folks around.

These terms and more describe my backyard these days. It's a GRAND place to be!

None-the-less, I know the summer moon is setting. The winter snows and biting winds already nip at fall's heals. But - - - a few more lovely days remain to enjoy Montana in all its colorful splendor.

In addition, the wildlife are moving around a bit more. Moose sightings are increasing. I've thrilled to hear bugling elk on some of my wanderings. The waterfowl are starting to congregate. Bears - well, they've made themselves pretty obvious most of the season, and sightings are remaining constant if not increasing. In fact, I heard one interesting story - one of those 'if only I could have seen that' stories.

A regular guest was fishing the shoreline at Hidden Lake when a moderately large black bear came to visit. Keeping his cool, our guest maintained his position and watched. The bear didn't seem interested in him, anyway. Besides, once he reached the water line, he had other things to worry about in the form of five otters.

For reasons which will remain known only to them, these five decided the bear was out of place along the lake that day. Thus a stand-off ensued.

Believe it or not, the otters won. Whether the bear wasn't as thirsty (or hungry) as he'd first thought, whether he was feeling bemused at the otter's attitude, or whether he decided five otters to one bear just weren't good enough odds - you decide. All I know is what our guest said - the bear left! Amazing!

Come on folks, where else can you enjoy that kind of entertainment? All I can say is, I'm glad its in my backyard!

Lady of the Lake

So Much Variety

Although I have delighted in my ability to recognize various plants on my walks the past few weeks, I can finally say I 'used' some of the information I'm gleaning from this new 'hobby'. In my freezer there now reside some Gooseberries. Well, there are 'some' as long as 'some' can be used to define a few!

There are a few Chokecherries, too. In fact, in another week or so, I hope to add to my Chokecherry cache. The Gooseberries, however, will have to reside alone for two reasons. One: I didn't get started on them early enough in the season. Although I've seen numerous plants near the lodge, most of the berries have either been eaten by the critters or have already shriveled up where they hang. Two: This plant has some mighty nasty projections! In other words - thorns. I still have the remnant of one in my finger - a sore reminder of my berry picking. In fact, although these berries look kinda like blueberries, their plant defenses and their seedy qualities remind me more of blackberries!

That said, let's dive into ten more plants which reside near Elk Lake Resort.

• 1. Blue Violet
• 2. Paintbrush
• 3. Cushion Flox
• 4. Wood's Forget-me-not
• 5. Sticky Geranium
• 6. Gaillardia
• 7. Wood's Rose
• 8. Cow Parsnip
• 9. Showy Fleabane
• 10. Prairie Smoke
• 11. Few-Flowered Shooting Star
• 12. Sulfur Buckwheat
• 13. Lanceleaf Stonecrop
• 14. Spurred Lupine
• 15. Mountain Sorrel
• 16. Hound's Tongue
• 17. Pennycress
• 18. Chives
• 19. Sugarbowl
• 20. Tall Cinquefoil
• 21. Oregon Grape
• 22. Western Gromwell
• 23. Chokecherry
• 24. Mountain Bluebells
• 25. Rocky Mountain Iris
• 26. False Solomon's Seal
• 27. Rosy Pussytoes
• 28. Elk Thistle
• 29. Yellow Salsify
• 31. Shrubby Cinquefoil
• 32. Gray Horsebrush
• 33. Water Smartweed
• 34. Common Harebell
• 35. Nuttall's Rockcress
• 36. Orange Hawkweed
• 37. Yellow Pond-lily
• 38. Musk Thistle
• 39. White Campion
• 40. Bitterroot
• 41. Kinnikinnick
• 42. Serviceberry
• 43. Alberta Penstemon
• 44. Rock Clematis
• 45. Ballhead Waterleaf
• 46. Parry's Townsendia
• 47. Low Larkspur
• 48. Blue-eyed Grass
• 49. Many-flowered Stickseed
• 50. Blue Penstemon
• 51. False Dandelion
• 52. Common Dandelion
• 53. Mint
• 54. Wild Raspberry
• 55. Common Juniper
• 56. Silver Sage
• 57. Long-styled Thistle
• 58. Green Gentian
• 59. Silverleaf Phacelia
• 60. Cushion Buckwheat

False Dandelion

Things I Already Knew: I've always assumed this was some sort of Dandelion species. However, the showy flowers also look a bit like Hawksbeard - a species I recently learned about. The pretty yellow flowers grow in clumps, prefer lots of sunshine, and produce puffy seed heads much like a Dandelion.

Things I Recently Learned: A member of the sunflower family, False Dandelion grows on a leafless, unbranched stem which ranges from 4 to 20 inches tall. Like dandelions, the stems, when broken, exude a milky juice.

This plant is edible and can be eaten in salads or cooked for greens. American Indians used dried plant juice and leaves as gum. Thus the plant is also known by the unusual name 'Indian Bubble Gum'.

Also known as Pale Agoseris, Mountain Dandelion, and Rocky Mountain Dandelion, believe it or not this plant is listed as a species of concern because it does not fare well when competing with non-native plants. Another interesting piece of False Dandelion trivia - the Montana field guide actually discusses two Beaverhead County locations (we are located in Beaverhead County). In fact, of the six occurrances mapped on the field guide map, two are in our general area.

Medicinal uses of this plant include using a cold infusion as a lotion for treating wounds. The wet leaves have also been rubbed on swollen arms, wrists, or ankles.

Common Dandelion

Things I Already Knew: One of those 'everywhere' plants you wish would get OUT of your lawn. The leaves are edible but a bit bitter. The puffy seed heads appear above my lawn in what seems like minutes after mowing in the early summer!

Things I Recently Learned: Whereas the False Dandelion is a 'desired' plant, the Common Dandelion is a weed. Its popular name, Dandelion, comes from dent de lion, French for 'lion's tooth,' referring to the teeth on the leaves. Not only are the leaves edible, wine is made from the heads.

Although most people, myself included, consider the Common Dandelion a pest, it actually has several culinary and medicinal uses. It is a diuretic. In fact, it is sold as a diuretic drug in Canada. Its milky juice has been used as a mosquito repellent. As a folk rememdy, the milky juice has also been used to treat warts.

Additionally, a leaf decoction can be drunk to 'purify the blood', to treat anemia, jaundice, and also nervousness. Drunk before meals, dandelion root coffee is said to stimulate digestive functions and work as a liver tonic.

And, if that's not enough, "Dandelion and Burdock" is a popular soft drink in the United Kingdom! Obviously the dandelion's culinary uses are quite varied. In addition to their use in wine, the flowers are also used to make a Belgium ale called Pissenlit (literally 'wet the bed' in French). Want a glass???

Another recipe calling for dandelion flowers is Dandelion Flower Jam. When you finish with the flowers, you can grind and roast the dandelion roots to use as a coffee substitute. Then use the leaves raw in salads or cooked in soups. They are high in Vitamins A and C as well as iron. In fact, they provide more calcium than spinach. Amazing - especially for a weed!

Mint

Things I Already Knew: This is an aromatic plant which prefers moist, shady locations. Dried mint leaves are often used to create tea. Mint flavors many gums and candies. Although I haven't found it around the resort very often, it makes its presence known whenever I trod upon it.

Things I Recently Learned: This being the first plant I've covered which was not in bloom, I do not know if the mint which grows around here is peppermint or spearmint - but a recent visitor says she's found at least two varieties of mint. Regardless, the mint family encompasses MANY plants - in fact, a great number are found in my spice rack. Believe it or not, these include marjoram, basil, oregano, lavendar, rosemary, thyme, savory, and culinary sage. Worldwide there are 180 genera in the Mint family. They represent over 3500 species.

Since there are so many plants in the Mint family, it is handy to know some things to look for when identifying them. One, they all have square stalks. Two, they all have opposite leaves. Three, most are aromatic. Note: there are a handful of other plants with square stems and opposite leaves (like Stinging Nettle). However, none are aromatic.

While one might consider many aromatic herbs, like those listed above, to be related, we might not think of common house plants like Coleus to be from the same family. However, it is.

In addition to obvious culinary uses, Mint has several medicinal uses. Mint oil (menthol) is used in cough drops. The oils are warming and cause the body to open up and sweat. This can help one break a fever (have you ever put menthol in a humidifier)?

Here is a practical use many people probably haven't thought of (I hadn't). Volatile oils (like mint oil) are highly lethal to microorganisms. One site I read recommended using mint oil to purify questionable water.

Wild Red Raspberry

Things I Already Knew: A tasty treat in jam or pie, raspberries are cultivated in many sections of our country. The red fruit grows on a stickery branch. In cultivation, in some areas, the plants can produce two crops a year.

Things I Recently Learned: A member of the Rose Family, Wild Red Raspberries grow in a variety of soils ranging from moist stream banks to rocky montane slopes (where I found these).

Although not listed in my Montana wildflower book, Wild Red Raspberries are commonly found in western and central Montana. These plants are highly edible and have medicinal uses as well.

Raspberries offer several edible options - some of which you might not have heard. Of course the berries make wonderful jams, syrups, and pies. In addition, the roots can be boiled and eaten. The young, tender shoots when they first emerge in the spring can be peeled and eaten like asparagus. The leaves can be used for tea - some even say a combination of blackberry and raspberry leaves make a fine coffee substitute.

Medicinally the leaves and roots are anti-inflamatory, decongestant, stimulant, and have agents which cause skin to contract. Additionally the plant has agents which promote healing for eye disorders and diseases, promote labor contractions, and improve lactation. Some use the plants to make a tea to treat diarrhea while others use it to relieve painful menstral cramps. This is just a partial list of uses!

More than just edible or medicinal uses, raspberries can also be used for making dyes, making paper, and to make a face mask to soothe reddened skin. Who would have thought such a humble plant could offer so much?

Common Juniper

Things I Already Knew: This low growing dense shrub is found mainly in the more shaded forest areas around the lodge. Spreading to many feet across, this juniper makes a showy evergreen which seems quiet suitable for the flowerbed.

Things I Recently Learned: Common Juniper was indeed quiet common when Lewis and Clark made their trek west. In fact, they collected four specimen sheets on this one plant. They first collected a specimen in October 1804, in North Dakota. In July 1806, a specimen was collected in Montana.

Also called Dwarf Juniper, Common Juniper is a member of the Cypress or Juniper familiy. It rarely exceeds five feet tall and tends to grow in mats or clumps. The picture I have is a female plant. Female plants produce the bluish berries most people notice. Male plants produce small cones.

Found around the world in northern latitudes, Common Juniper is found rarely along the eastern seaboard and has been extirpated in Maryland.

Native Americans held Juniper in high esteem. The Blackfoot used a decoction made from Juniper berries to treat lung ailments and venereal diseases. Tribes west of the Continental Divide used an infusion of bark and needles to treat colds and as a tonic before entering a sweat lodge.

Modern day herbalists use the plant as a diuretic and to treat urinary tract problems. The plant is also being studied to treat insulin-dependent diabetes. Juniper berries are used to flavor gin and alcoholic bitters. The berries can also be used to enhance wild game's flavor and to stuff and dress game.

Silver Sage

Things I Already Knew: Although I have observed the varying size among our local sage brush plants, I have never given much thought to whether it was all the same variety, or not. This particular sage brush tends to be less 'brushy' or 'shrubby' than the larger sagebrush. It is more like a heavy grass in texture. It obviously prefers drier soils and is found in 'high desert' locations.

Things I Recently Learned: Silver Sage grows 3 - 5 feet tall. It is silver gray in color with inconspicuous yellow flowers in late summer. It is very drought tolerant.

This native plant is commonly found throughout the west, southwest, rocky mountain states and southern Canada. It requires more moisture than most sagebrush species. It also withstands moister, colder soils than most species.

This strongly aromatic plant was used by Native Americans as a general tonic, to restore hair, and for dermatological purposes.

Long-styled Thistle

Things I Already Knew: This is a stickery plant which grows quiet tall - about 3 - 4 feet. It seems to prefer dry, disturbed soils. Its flower head is white. Its stems lanky with few leaves.

Things I Recently Learned: Like every other thistle I've looked at, Long-styled Thistles are members of the Sunflower Family. They appear to only be native to Montana, with recorded sightings mostly around the west central section of the state.

This plant prefers open habitats in montane to sub-alpine meadows. They can survive elevation ranges between 4800 to 8100 feet, but prefer approximately 6000 to 7500 feet.

Most thistles can be eaten. The shoots can be peeled and eaten raw but are better boiled. The young roots are also edible. Some thistle seeds are important to various bird species.

Green Gentian

Things I Already Knew: A farely rare plant - at least one I don't commonly see, Green Gentian seems to scatter over a large area. However, you don't have to search for the plant because these unique flowers are found on the top portion of a long (2 - 5 feet) stalk.

Things I Recently Learned: This plant may go down as the most unique plant I've identified to date. Granted, Sugarbowls (my visitor from Whoville) will remain a top favorite, but Green Gentian not only looks unique (especially when you really look), but it has an amazing life-cycle.

Also known as Monument Plant, Green Gentian was originally thought to be a biennial. It wasn't until 1973 that Dr. David Inouye discovered this amazing plant's life history. It lives anywhere from 20 to 80 years! Then, after one flowering it dies! Thus it is known as a monocarpic plant.

First collected for science in the early 1830's by David Douglas (for whom the Douglas Fir is named) near present-day Spokane, Washington, Green Gentian is often mistaken for Mullein or Corn Lily (both of which this particular specimen are definitely not).

A close look at its flower shows striking purple dots on the four greenish white petals (the reddish color in my picture is courtesy of the early morning sunlight). There are also pinkish hairs on the two large nectar glands located near the base of each petal. The prominant green ovary sits in the center of four long stamens. Wow - what an amazing creation!

American Indians used the roots of this plant. However, caution is advised since the plant has toxic qualities. Nonetheless, the entire plant does have medicinal uses including the treatment of diarrhea, digestive complaints, colds, and asthma. A root powder mixed with oil has also been used to treat lice.

Silverleaf Phacelia

Things I Already Knew: One of those plants which doesn't look too 'fancy' until you examine it close-up. This plant grows clusters of white flowers on a stem around 1 foot tall. It seems to prefer open areas.

Things I Recently Learned: A member of the Waterleaf Family (related to Ballhead Waterleaf - another clustered flower), Silverleaf Phacelia's hairy stamens extend well beyond the length of its funnel-shaped flowers.

This is a perennial herb native to western North America. Also known as Scorpion Weed (yuk, what a name), this plant has a fuzzy appearance.

I can find no medicinal or culinary uses listed for Silverleaf Phacelia.

Cushion Buckwheat

Things I Already Knew: This is a low growing flower with ball-shaped flower heads on top of an 8-inch (ish) stem. The leaves form mats on the ground and appear to have a bit of a fussy texture. Found in drier soils near the resort.

Things I Recently Learned: Cushion Buckwheat can range from yellow, to white, to purple and can take on a burgundy tint as it ages (can you see the pinkish hue on the flower clusters in the photo?). A member of the Buckwheat Family, Cushion Buckwheat is native to western North America.

There are many varieties of this plant but generally they are a tough perennial herb which does well in gravelly soils. Also known as Steamboat Buckwheat, Cushion Buckwheat makes a nice yard plant.

These studies, in spite of the time involved, never cease to amaze me. I am amazed at the diversity which I have so long taken for granted. I am amazed at the usefullness of the plants in my backyard. I am amazed at what I have seen when I have bothered to really look. Above all, I am thankful I can remain the

Lady of the Lake

So Much Variety

Although I have delighted in my ability to recognize various plants on my walks the past few weeks, I can finally say I 'used' some of the information I'm gleaning from this new 'hobby'.

In my freezer there now reside some Gooseberries. Well, there are 'some' as long as 'some' can be used to define a few!

There are a few Chokecherries, too. In fact, in another week or so, I hope to add to my Chokecherry cache. The Gooseberries, however, will have to reside alone for two reasons.

One: I didn't get started on them early enough in the season. Although I've seen numerous plants near the lodge, most of the berries have either been eaten by the critters or have already shriveled up where they hang.

Two: This plant has some mighty nasty projections! In other words - thorns. I've still got the remnant of one in my finger - a sore reminder of my berry picking. In fact, although look kinda like blueberries, their plant defenses and their seedy qualities remind me more of blackberries!

That said, let's dive into ten more plants which reside near Elk Lake Resort.

• 1. Blue Violet
• 2. Paintbrush
• 3. Cushion Flox
• 4. Wood's Forget-me-not
• 5. Sticky Geranium
• 6. Gaillardia
• 7. Wood's Rose
• 8. Cow Parsnip
• 9. Showy Fleabane
• 10. Prairie Smoke
• 11. Few-Flowered Shooting Star
• 12. Sulfur Buckwheat
• 13. Lanceleaf Stonecrop
• 14. Spurred Lupine
• 15. Mountain Sorrel
• 16. Hound's Tongue
• 17. Pennycress
• 18. Chives
• 19. Sugarbowl
• 20. Tall Cinquefoil
• 21. Oregon Grape
• 22. Western Gromwell
• 23. Chokecherry
• 24. Mountain Bluebells
• 25. Rocky Mountain Iris
• 26. False Solomon's Seal
• 27. Rosy Pussytoes
• 28. Elk Thistle
• 29. Yellow Salsify
• 31. Shrubby Cinquefoil
• 32. Gray Horsebrush
• 33. Water Smartweed
• 34. Common Harebell
• 35. Nuttall's Rockcress
• 36. Orange Hawkweed
• 37. Yellow Pond-lily
• 38. Musk Thistle
• 39. White Campion
• 40. Bitterroot
• 41. Kinnikinnick
• 42. Serviceberry
• 43. Alberta Penstemon
• 44. Rock Clematis
• 45. Ballhead Waterleaf
• 46. Parry's Townsendia
• 47. Low Larkspur
• 48. Blue-eyed Grass
• 49. Many-flowered Stickseed
• 50. Blue Penstemon
• 51. False Dandelion
• 52. Common Dandelion
• 53. Mint
• 54. Wild Raspberry
• 55. Common Juniper
• 56. Silver Sage
• 57. Long-styled Thistle
• 58. Green Gentian
• 59. Silverleaf Phacelia
• 60. Cushion Buckwheat

False Dandelion

Things I Already Knew: I've always assumed this was some sort of Dandelion species. However, the showy flowers also look a bit like Hawksbeard - a species I recently learned about. These pretty yellow flowers grow in clumps, prefer lots of sunshine, and produce puffy seed heads much like a Dandelion.

Things I Recently Learned: A member of the sunflower family, False Dandelion grows on a leafless, unbranched stem which ranges from 4 to 20 inches tall. Like dandelions, the stems, when broken, exude a milky juice.

This plant is edible and can be eaten in salads or cooked for greens. American Indians used dried plant juice and leaves as gum. Thus the plant is also known by the unusual name 'Indian Bubble Gum'.

Also known as Pale Agoseris, Mountain Dandelion, and Rocky Mountain Dandelion, believe it or not this plant is listed as a species of concern because it does not fare well when competing with non-native plants. Another interesting piece of False Dandelion trivia - the Montana field guide actually discusses two Beaverhead County locations (we are located in Beaverhead County). In fact, of the six occurrances mapped on the field guide map, two are in our general area.

Medicinal uses of this plant include using a cold infusion of the plant as a lotion for treating wounds. The wet leaves have also been rubbed on swollen arms, wrists, or ankles.

Common Dandelion

Things I Already Knew: One of those 'everywhere' plants you wish would get OUT of your lawn. The leaves are edible but a bit bitter. The puffy seed heads appear above my lawn in what seems like minutes after mowing in the early summer!

Things I Recently Learned: Whereas the False Dandelion is a 'desired' plant, the Common Dandelion is a weed. Its popular name, Dandelion, comes from dent de lion, French for 'lion's tooth,' referring to the teeth on the leaves. Not only are the leaves edible, wine is made from the heads.

Although most people, myself included, consider the Common Dandelion a pest, it actually has several culinary and medicinal uses. It is a diuretic. In fact, it is sold as a diuretic drug in Canada. Its milky juice has been used as a mosquito repellent. As a folk rememdy, the milky juice has also been used to treat warts.

Additionally, a leaf decoction can be drunk to 'purify the blood', to treat anemia, jaundice, and also nervousness. Drunk before meals, dandelion root coffee is said to stimulate digestive functions and work as a liver tonic.

And, if that's not enough, "Dandelion and Burdock" is a popular soft drink in the United Kingdom! In fact, its culinary uses are quite varied. In addition to their use in wine, the flowers are also used to make a Belgium ale called Pissenlit (literally 'wet the bed' in French). Want a glass???

Another recipe calling for dandelion flowers is Dandelion Flower Jam. When you finish with the flowers, you can grind and roast the dandelion roots to use as a coffee substitute.

Not only are the leaves useful raw in salads or cooked in soups, they are high in Vitamins A and C as well as iron. In fact, they provide more calcium than spinach. Amazing - especially for a weed!

Mint

Things I Already Knew: This is an aromatic plant which prefers moist, shady locations. Dried mint leaves are often used to create tea. Mint flavors many gums and candies. Although I haven't found it around the resort very often, it makes its presence known whenever I trod upon it.

Things I Recently Learned: This being the first plant I've covered which was not in bloom, I do not know if the mint which grows around here is peppermint or spearmint. Regardless, the mint family encompasses MANY plants - in fact, a great number are found in my spice rack. Believe it or not, these include marjoram, basil, oregano, lavendar, rosemary, thyme, savory, and culinary sage. Worldwide there are 180 genera in the Mint family. They represent over 3500 species.

Since there are so many plants in the Mint family, it is handy to know some things to look for when identifying them. One, they all have square stalks. Two, they all have opposite leaves. Three, most are aromatic. Note: there are a handful of other plants with square stems and opposite leaves (like a Stinging Nettle). However, none are aromatic.

While one might consider many aromatic herbs, like those listed above, to be related, we might not think of common house plants like Coleus to be from the same family. However, it is.

In addition to obvious culinary uses, Mint has several medicinal uses. Mint oil (menthol) is used in cough drops. The oils are warming and cause the body to open up and sweat. This can help one break a fever (have you ever put menthol in a humidifier)?

Here is a practical use many people probably haven't thought of (I hadn't). Volatile oils (like mint oil) are highly lethal to microorganisms. One site I read recommended it for purifying questionable water.

Wild Red Raspberry

Things I Already Knew: A tasty treat in jam or pie, raspberries are cultivated in many sections of our country. The red fruit grows on a stickery branch. In cultivation, in some areas the plants can produce two crops a year.

Things I Recently Learned: A member of the Rose Family, Wild Red Raspberries grow in a variety of soils ranging from moist stream banks to rocky montane slopes (where I found these).

Although not listed in my Montana wildflower book, Wild Red Raspberries are commonly found in western and central Montana. These plants are highly edible and have medicinal uses as well.

Raspberries offer several edible options - some of which you might not have heard. Of course the berries make wonderful jams, syrups, and pies. In addition, the roots can be boiled and eaten. The young, tender shoots when they first emerge in the spring can be peeled and eaten like asparagus. The leaves can be used for tea - some even say a combination of blackberry and raspberry leaves make a fine coffee substitute.

Medicinally the leaves and roots are anti-inflamatory, decongestant, stimulant, and have agents which cause skin to contract. Additionally the plant has agents which promote healing for eye disorders and diseases, promote labor contractions, and improve lactation. Some use the plants to make a tea to treat diarrhea while others use it to relieve painful menstral cramps. This is just a partial list of uses!

More than just edible or medicinal uses, raspberries can also be used for making dyes, making paper, and to make a face mask to soothe reddened skin. Who would have thought such a humble plant could offer so much?

Common Juniper

Things I Already Knew: This low growing dense shrub is found mainly in the more shaded forest areas around the lodge. Spreading to many feet across, this juniper makes a showy evergreen which seems quiet suitable for the flowerbed.

Things I Recently Learned: Common Juniper was indeed quiet common when Lewis and Clark made their trek west. In fact, they collected four specimen sheets on this one plant. They first collected in October 1804, in North Dakota. In July 1806, a specimen was collected in Montana.

Also called Dwarf Juniper, Common Juniper is a member of the Cypress or Juniper familiy. It rarely exceeds five feet tall and tends to grow in mats or clumps. The picture I have is of a female plant. Female plants produce the bluish berries most people notice. Male plants produce small cones.

Found around the world in northern latitudes, Common Juniper is found rarely along the eastern seaboard and has been extirpated in Maryland.

Native Americans held Juniper in high esteem. The Blackfoot used a decoction made from Juniper berries to treat lung ailments and venereal diseases. Tribes west of the Continental Divide used an infusion of bark and needles to treat colds and as a tonic before entering a sweat lodge.

Modern day herbalists use the plant as a diuretic and to treat urinary tract problems. The plant is also being studied to treat insulin-dependent diabetes. Juniper berries are used to flavor gin and alcoholic bitters. The berries can also be used to enhance wild game's flavor and to stuff and dress game.

Silver Sage

Things I Already Knew: Although I have observed the varying size among our local sage brush plants, I have never given much thought to whether it was all the same variety, or not. This particular sage brush tends to be less 'brushy' or 'shrubby' than the larger sagebrush. It is more like a heavy grass in texture. It obviously prefers drier soils and is found in 'high desert' locations.

Things I Recently Learned: Silver Sage grows 3 - 5 feet tall. It is silver gray in color with inconspicuous yellow flowers in late summer. It is very drought tolerant.

This native plant is commonly found throughout the west, southwest, rocky mountain states and southern Canada. It requires more moisture than most sagebrush species. It also withstands moister, colder soils than most species.

This strongly aromatic plant was used by Native Americans as a general tonic, to restore hair, and for dermatological purposes.

Long-styled Thistle

Things I Already Knew: This is a stickery plant which grows quiet tall - about 3 - 4 feet. It seems to prefer dry, disturbed soils. Its flower head is white. Its stems lanky with few leaves.

Things I Recently Learned: Like every other thistle I've looked at, Long-styled Thistles are members of the Sunflower Family. They appear to only be native to Montana, with recorded sightings mostly around the west central section of the state.

This plant prefers open habitats in montane to sub-alpine meadows. They can survive elevation ranges between 4800 to 8100 feet, but prefer approximately 6000 to 7500 feet.

Most thistles can be eaten. The shoots can be peeled and eaten raw but are better boiled. The young roots are also edible. Some thistle seeds are important to various bird species.

Green Gentian

Things I Already Knew: A farely rare plant - at least one I don't commonly see, Green Gentian seems to scatter over a large area. However, you don't have to search for the plant because these unique flowers are found on the top portion of a long (2 - 5 feet) stalk.

Things I Recently Learned: This plant may go down as the most unique plant I've identified to date. Granted, Sugarbowls (my visitor from Whoville) will remain a top favorite, but Green Gentian not only looks unique (especially when you really look), but it has an amazing life-cycle.

Also known as Monument Plant, Green Gentian was originally thought to be a biennial. It wasn't until 1973 that Dr. David Inouye discovered this amazing plant's life history. It lives anywhere from 20 to 80 years! Then, after one flowering it dies! Thus it is known as a monocarpic plant.

First collected for science in the early 1830's by David Douglas (for whom the Douglas Fir is named) near present-day Spokane, Washington, Green Gentian is often mistaken for Mullein or Corn Lily (both of which this particular specimen are definitely not).

A close look at its flower shows striking purple dots on the four greenish white petals (the reddish color in my picture is courtesy of the early morning sunlight). There are also pinkish hairs on the two large nectar glands located near the base of each petal. The prominant green ovary sits in the center of four long stamens. Wow - what an amazing creation!

American Indians used the roots of this plant. However, caution is advised since the plant has toxic qualities. Nonetheless, the entire plant does have medicinal uses including the treatment of diarrhea, digestive complaints, colds, and asthma. A root powder mixed with oil has also been used to treat lice.

Silverleaf Phacelia

Things I Already Knew: One of those plants which doesn't look too 'fancy' until you examine it close-up. This plant grows clusters of white flowers on a stem around 1 foot tall. It seems to prefer open areas.

Things I Recently Learned: A member of the Waterleaf Family (related to Ballhead Waterleaf - another clustered flower), Silverleaf Phacelia's hairy stamens extend well beyond the length of its funnel-shaped flowers.

This is a perennial herb native to western North America. Also known as Scorpion Weed (yuk, what a name), this plant has a fuzzy appearance.

I can find no medicinal or culinary uses listed for Silverleaf Phacelia.

Cushion Buckwheat

Things I Already Knew: This is a low growing flower with ball-shaped flower heads on top of an 8-inch (ish) stem. The leaves form mats on the ground and appear to have a bit of a fussy texture. Found in drier soils near the resort.

Things I Recently Learned: Cushion Buckwheat can range from yellow, to white, to purple and can take on a burgundy tint as it ages (can you see the pinkish hue on the flower clusters in the photo?). A member of the Buckwheat Family, Cushion Buckwheat is native to western North America.

There are many varieties of this plant but generally they are a tough perennial herb which does well in gravelly soils.

Also known as Steamboat Buckwheat, Cushion Buckwheat makes a nice yard plant.

These studies, in spite of the time involved, never cease to amaze me. I am amazed at the diversity which I have so long taken for granted. I am amazed at the usefullness of the plants in my backyard. I am amazed at what I have seen when I have bothered to really look. Above all, I am thankful I can remain the

Lady of the Lake

Blue Beauties

It's amazing to watch the flowers transform into their late season colors and shapes. Take the seed head I found the other day. Maybe I'll post it sometime - when I figure out what it is. Unique! That starts to describe it.

I have figured out the geraniums are the first to show vivid fall colors as their leaves turn brilliant red. From pretty flowers to pretty leaves. Amazing.

Other plants continue to puzzle or delight or both as I observe their transformations more closely than past years. So, again we take a look at ten wildflower species which live in my backyard (using the term loosely, of course).

• 1. Blue Violet
• 2. Paintbrush
• 3. Cushion Flox
• 4. Wood's Forget-me-not
• 5. Sticky Geranium
• 6. Gaillardia
• 7. Wood's Rose
• 8. Cow Parsnip
• 9. Showy Fleabane
• 10. Prairie Smoke
• 11. Few-Flowered Shooting Star
• 12. Sulfur Buckwheat
• 13. Lanceleaf Stonecrop
• 14. Spurred Lupine
• 15. Mountain Sorrel
• 16. Hound's Tongue
• 17. Pennycress
• 18. Chives
• 19. Sugarbowl
• 20. Tall Cinquefoil
• 21. Oregon Grape
• 22. Western Gromwell
• 23. Chokecherry
• 24. Mountain Bluebells
• 25. Rocky Mountain Iris
• 26. False Solomon's Seal
• 27. Rosy Pussytoes
• 28. Elk Thistle
• 29. Yellow Salsify
• 31. Shrubby Cinquefoil
• 32. Gray Horsebrush
• 33. Water Smartweed
• 34. Common Harebell
• 35. Nuttall's Rockcress
• 36. Orange Hawkweed
• 37. Yellow Pond-lily
• 38. Musk Thistle
• 39. White Campion
• 40. Bitterroot
• 41. Kinnikinnick
• 42. Serviceberry
• 43. Alberta Penstemon
• 44. Rock Clematis
• 45. Ballhead Waterleaf
• 46. Parry's Townsendia
• 47. Low Larkspur
• 48. Blue-eyed Grass
• 49. Many-flowered Stickseed
• 50. Blue Penstemon

Kinnikinnick

Things I Already Knew: A pretty low-growing plant found close to the forest floor, this shiny leafed plant bears clusters of bright red berries by late summer.

Things I Recently Learned: A member of the shrub family this low-growing (dense mats no more than 6 inches tall) plant bears pink or sometimes white flowers in the spring. The clustered flowers look like upside-down urns. Their fruit, the bright red berries, persist throughout the winter, are edible, and are often eaten by bears.

I've never run into a plant known by more names. This short, unassuming plant is known by no less than eighteen names including Bear Berry, Bear's Grape, Crowberry, Hog Cranberry, Mealberry, Arberry, Mountain Box, Mountain Cranberry, Red bearberry, Sagackhomi, Sandberry, Upland Cranberry, Uva Ursa, Universe Vine, Wild Cranberry, and Bear's Grape

Medicinally this plant has been used for several purposes. It contains glycoside arbutin, which has antimicrobal properties and acts as a mild diuretic. It has been used for urinary tract complaints. It has also been used for bronchitis, nephritis, and kidney stones. An infusion can be made by soaking the leaves in ethanol and diluting with water. The website, http://www.holisticonline.com/, even has dosage information.

Some American Indians drank a tea made from the plant for backsprains while others used it to treat venereal diseases.

Serviceberry

Things I Already Knew: This plant produced pretty but seedy berries in profusion this year! It seems to handle sunny spots well. Serviceberry grows quite tall - up to 4 feet around here. The flowers are white and blend in with the chokecherries along Elk Lake Road.

Things I Recently Learned: Another member of the shrub family, serviceberry can grow up to 20 feet tall. The white or sometimes pinkish flowers grow in clusters (better for me to confuse them with chokecherry).

Serviceberry is also known as Saskatoonberry, Saskatoon, Western Service Berry, Shadbush, or Juneberry. It is a North American native. It is a long-living plant often bearing fruit up to 30 years. It is quite winter hardy, but it requires plentious sunshine to ripen the fruit. A late frost can destroy the crop.

Serviceberry fruit is a favorite food of many birds and animals and can be used to make jelly and wine. It looks and tastes similar to a blueberry - sweet in flavor. Serviceberry has been used by American Indians and Canada's Aboriginal peoples both as fruit and added to pemmican.

The name, Saskatoon is derived from a Cree word. The city, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan is named after this useful plant.

Alberta Penstemon

Things I Already Knew: This plant grows profusely in some areas around the Resort. It appears to prefer meadows. It blooms later than many species, its showy flowers adding a splash of color to the mid-summer foliage.

Things I Recently Learned: A member of the Figwort family, Alberta Penstemon prefers dry open or rocky areas from the valley to foothills and subalpine forests in western Montana. A similar plant, Wilcox's Penstemon grows in similar soils in northwestern Montana.

Also known as Alberta Beardtongue, Alberta Pestemon is commonly found in British Columbia, Alberta, Idaho, and Montana. Boasting the largest genus endemic to North America, these perennial plants have approximately 275 species. Native to North America ornamental gardeners worldwide have long sought them for their beauty, adaptability, and wide-variety genus.

Two more pieces of penstemon trivia: Native Americans used Penstemon roots to relieve toothaches. Merchants began selling Penstemon seeds as early as 1813. Although a North American native, Europe has always been more interested in cultivating the species for ornamental gardens.

Rock Clematis

Things I Already Knew: This delicate looking flower prefers heavy shade. It blooms early in the spring when soils are damp and temperatures are cool. Only one colorful blue to purple flower tops each leggy stem.

Things I Recently Learned: A member of the Buttercup Family, Rock Clematis grows in the north western, the north central, the rocky mountain states and even in Texas!

Although my Montana flower book says this is a climbing vine, all the specimens I've seen have been low growing. However, based on internet information, some species are low growing. This plant is also called Columbia Virgin's Bower and Blue Clematis. It is of the same family as my visitor from Whoville, the Sugarbowls.

This perenial plant is recommended for use in ornamental rock gardens.

Ballhead Waterleaf

Things I Already Knew: This low growing yet showy flower is easy to overlook. It seems to prefer moist soils and heavy shade. The leaves often almost dwarf the bottle-brush type flowers.

Things I Recently Learned: Also known as Dwarf Waterleaf, this plant is a member of the Waterleaf Family which has many varieties throughout the western United States. All family members have flower parts in fives - five fused, lobed petals that form a bell or funnel, five united sepals, and five stamens.

Ballhead Waterleaf can be found in the brushy areas and open woods of southern British Columbia, south through eastern Washington and Oregon to central California; east to western Colorado, northern Utah, Idaho, Alberta (and, obviously, Montana).

Young waterleaf shoots and leaves, collected before the flowers appear, were used by Native Americans and settlers as a cooked vegetable. They are best boiled in water, changed at least one time, and served with vinegar. Some tribes boiled the waterleaf roots with the bulbs of the Yellow Glacier Lily.

Parry's Townsendia

Things I Already Knew: I have often confused this plant with Showy Fleabane (covered in an earlier posting) because of the similarity in the flowers. However, if you were to go back to that earlier blog, you will see that although the flowers are similar, the leaves are different (okay, the fleabane photo doesn't show many leaves - see, that's my point!).

Things I Recently Learned: Parry's Townsendia is considered an uncommon wildflower. In fact, my Field Guide to North American Wildflowers, western edition, doesn't even list it. A couple of websites also list it as rare or uncommon.

Nonetheless, it is cultivated by ornamental gardeners because of its showy colors. This plant is sometimes confused with the Alpine Daisy.

Parry's Townsendia blooms in May, June, July, and August and can be found in Oregon, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, and California. It is also found in Alberta and British Columbia.

This plant thrives in rocky or gravelly soils on mid-level to alpine slopes.

Low Larkspur

Things I Already Knew: A moderately tall plant (a little over a foot tall), the thin larkspur stems are topped with uniquely shaped, orchid-type flowers. These pretty flowers seem to appreciate grassy meadows.

Things I Recently Learned: A member of the Buttercup Family, Low Larkspur can be found in west, central, and east Montana. Its generic name, Delphinium, is derived from Latin for 'dolphin', a shape the flower vaguely resembles.

Low Larkspur is also known as Little Larkspur or Montana Larkspur. It is a native perennial. It can take as many as five years for the plant to flower although it may do so in its third year under favorable conditions.

Low Larkspur is grazed by elk, deer, and pronghorn as well as upland game birds, non-game birds, small mammals and domestic animals. Early in the year it is high in protein. In spite of this, it is toxic to cattle and, if pastures are grazed before the grass is mature enough to be more plentiful than the larkspur, can causes cattle loss. It can also be toxic to horses and sheep. The plant is now considered a noxious weed - although a very pretty one!

Blue-eyed Grass

Things I Already Knew: A rare plant - at least as compared to everything else. I've seen less of this plant (this is my one and only photo) in my walks than even the Nuttall's Rockcress. However, that may also be in part because it appears to like cool, grassy locations - and it doesn't grow very tall. However, this pretty flower is definitely worth the hunt!

Things I Recently Learned: Blue-eyed Grass can be found on grassy meadows or in open sites that are moist to moderately dry. A member of the Iris family, Blue-eyed Grass flowers from April to September. My western region wildflower book says it is "one of the most perplexing groups of plants, with many, often intergrading, variants named as species."

American Indians used a root tea to treat diarhhea in children and a plant tea to treat worms and stomach aches. Several species were also used for a laxative.

This plant is a perinneal which will die out when cultivated if the soil gets too dry.

Many-flowered Stickseed

Things I Already Knew: Although this plant does qualify as a wildflower, and although its flowers resemble forget-me-not (it is called Wild Forget-Me-Not) I DON'T like this plant once it goes to seed. We call it 'stick-tight' because the seed burrs are almost impossible to get out of the dog's hair (or off clothes with even a moderate nap).

Things I Recently Learned: A member of the Borage Family (related to Wood's Forget-Me-Not), Many-flowered Stickseed flowers from June to August. It is native to much of western North America.

A similar and more common wildlflower, western stickseed, is distinguished primarily by the prickles on its seed nutlet (therefore, this could be western stickseed).

This plant is a robust biennial or short-lived perennial

Blue Penstemon

Things I Already Knew: Another blue flower which seems to thrive in the meadows around Elk Lake. I must admit, I didn't know there were so many varieties. Now I'm glad I took the extra pictures!

Things I Recently Learned: Growing on a smooth 12 to 26 inch stem, Blue Penstemon has different leaves on the lower and upper stem. The lower leaves are basal while the upper are stalkless and clasp the stem (as seen in my photo).

A member of the Figwort Family (and a relative to the Penstemon above), Blue Penstemon grows in the open plains and foothills of southwest and south-central Montana.

Native to Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, this plant is a perennial. Like other penstemons, it is cultivated for its ornamental qualities.

Well, blue seems to be the color of the day (or the blog, in this case). It certainly isn't because I'm blue. Maybe its the bright sunshine and blue skies. Or, more likely, its because I'm finally getting these photos organized a bit, and, as I put them into files, the colors tend to go together. One way or the other, it was another nice trip down summer memory lane!

Lady of the Lake