Well, didn't get out of town until noon. Then I was turning onto Hwy 22 off Hwy 5 and I get a phone call from Dennis saying I had left my OR CHL at home. So I went back to get it only to find out that it was my OLD CHL and I had the new one in my purse. Oh well.

What an amazing uplifting drive down the highway heading towards Sisters. I was playing "My (our) God is an Amazing God" and praising my God with my voice singing out loud. Then I looked around at the terrain I was driving through - tall deep green trees, snow-covered mountains and small rivers peeking through the trees. It was glorious. I was so happy and felt so free with just God and I (and Tampa) driving down the highway.

When I came upon Lost Lake I was flooded with loving memories of Dennis, Ryan and I there. I can almost see myself and the guys out in the lake in our pontoons and fishing in the sunlight amidst the water grass. Camping there and the millions of mosquitos which ate our poor Dennis alive. Men are gathered in a cluster fishing the 'hole'. Not a word being spoken. Flyfishing is similar to prayer...all is quiet. It's an activity of the heart and brings serenity to be standing in the sunlight listening to the silence. The only sound is that line going through the air.

My first night I am at the Metolious. How could I be happier? Tampa and I went on a walk through the woods - and, I didn't have her on a leash. However, I did purchase a "tingle" collar which I'm hoping will encourage her to stay close and not run off. She hates it. Hates it hates it. Dennis and I think her previous owner must have had one because she knew what it was the minute I pulled it out of the box. Yet, I know she wants to run free (as she should) and I want her to be free, too.

Thank you to Denny for being so great about helping me get ready. I hope you are able to read this. I love you.