Geology

 

The Pacific Northwest has some of the most interesting geology in the world, formed at the end of the last ice age, about 18,000 years ago. The immense gouging glaciers and then a series of massive ice age floods carved out our landscape in a dramatic way. 

High up above the valley floor at Amanda and Tom's property, looking down on the river is one of those "ah-ah" moments. From that viewpoint, it's obvious the entire valley is just a massive flood plain, and the benches lining the valley sides are old high water marks. I was there with the girls on Saturday, and picked up a perfectly smooth river rock from what was once an ancient gravel bank.

Anyway, we enjoy watching a Northwest geology series called Nick on the Rocks. It was originally broadcast in short segments on our local PBS station. It's now available on YouTube and Nick the Geologist is entertaining and informative. Nothing like geology to put us puny humans into perspective.

I'm back in Seattle, after a lovely drive yesterday over the North Cascades Highway. Sometimes you just get lucky-- sunny skies and peak fall colors in the high mountains. 

It was fun but somewhat of a hectic visit (what's new?) and Twisp was really hopping on Saturday between the farmer's market, a gallery opening and a block party for the new Room One Community Center.  

 

That evening, there wasn't a parking space to be had in town. What happened? Suddenly, it seems like everyone wants to be in Twisp.

The girls were busy with friends and activities, but I got some on-on-one time with Nova, driving her to the ranch for chores and riding Saturday morning. I gave her her my old riding jacket and leather half chaps so scored some points there. I sure got a kick seeing her decked out in my old attire.