The big aspen clones on the other side of Kebler Pass are in full color. Square miles of trees are changing; different clones can be identified by their different colors. Science tells us the largest living organism in the world--a single aspen clone--is providing us with autumn entertainment. And you should have seen all the photographers standing behind their tripods.

May 12-Greetings from Bimini! Our gateway to the Bahamas! What a great place to rest and get into the cruising rhythm! Three days zipped by as we explored the island and enjoyed the beginning of our cruise.

Several years ago I made a pass through Ice Lakes Basin on my way to climb Vermillion Peak. At that time I was struck by the beauty of this incredible basin and the surrounding mountains. There are pristine lakes, amazing rock formations of different colors, and fields of wildflowers, all above tree line. Therefore, I was determined to come back and enjoy it again.

May 9-We are finally underway!It took two weeks at the dock for my husband Dave and I to prepare Mariposa for our cruise. Mariposa is our boat and she is a true champ. She is a 38 foot long, 22 foot wide sailing catamaran. She draws about 4.5 feet, which means we can sail or anchor in water no shallower than about 5 feet (to be on the safe side) and we’ll have six inches of water under us.