EXTRACT FOR
Wilderness Experience
(David Monroe)

  The trail steadily climbed through the aspens switching back and forth up the side of the mountain as a slight breeze made the tender green leaves, now turning slightly golden with the approaching fall season, shimmered in the afternoon sun. As I crested the top of the ridge, I stopped at the side of the trail to catch my breath and take in the beautiful view of the wide-open valley below. There was a long and narrow lake cupped in the valley. Surrounded by intricate rock outcroppings all along the sides and sporadic trees along the banks.



     As I began my way down the trail to the lake, I spotted someone else making their way toward a large open grassy field just below me from the other side. As we neared each other, we both saw we were not alone and exchanged a quick wave of the hand as a greeting. As I neared the edge of the lake, I saw this incredibly beautiful woman setting her backpack down to rest on a tree. She was perspiring moderately as I was after the long day's walk and I approached the lake through the tall grass.