Gig Harbor, WA

[Dave McClung]

Linda and I are enjoying out time in Gig Harbor. Here are a few pictures from this week:

John David (my grandson) and me

Isabelle

Linda and me

Me near the top of the hill in front of our house. I am trying treking poles. I have not used the before, but after seeing how many hikers use them, I have decided to try them too. I have been using them for a couple of weeks and still have not made up my mind.

[Hans Deventer]

I'd be interested to hear your experience about the poles, Dave. You see a lot of people using them around here as well. I can understand how they would help find stability on a difficult mountain hike, but I really fail to see their use in flat country.

[Dave McClung]

So far I have found them helpful on steep uphill walks. I am a bit surprised at how much it helps to have a little extra push.

On the flat areas about the only difference I have noticed is they cause me to exercise my arms as well as my legs. I suspect it is healthy.

On the steep downhills, they provide a bit of stability. I don't have trouble with my knees, so I don't notice a difference there. A lot of hikers count helping their knees as the most important reason to use them.

On the negative side, they prevent me from carrying my camera in my hand. There are many pictures (mostly birds and wildlife) if one doesn't have the camera in hand.

I will give you a report after I have tried them on a few "real" hikes.

[Joel Merrill]

Your beard is looking good:fav18

Joel

[Cindi Hammons]

Dave,

Your house reminds me of one that my Aunt and Uncle owned in Sedona, Arizona. It was along one of those beautiful cliffs they have in Sedona. Anyways, from the street, it looked like a one story home, but from the cliff side, it was a three story home. It was really a nice home and had the most wonderfull view. Of course, you have a wonderful view as well!

Cindi H.

[Hans Deventer]

Wow, Sedona! Not the worst place to live.........

[Cindi Hammons]

Actually, they enjoyed it quite a lot, but he was an anesthesiologist before he retired and worked in Phoenix. The travel got to be quite extensive. Plus, my cousins all lived in the Phoenix area as well and I think they all missed living closer to each other. My Aunt and Uncle now live back in the Phoenix area.

I'd never get anything done living in Sedona. I'd be outside with my camera all day long!

Cindi H.

[Hans Deventer]

Would you believe, we drove down from Flagstaff through Sedona, and then some 18 miles south to a camping site, and the next day never left that site but for a short walk. We were so tired that we spent most of the day at the swimming pool. Hannie didn't even want ot go shopping there!!!!
So I have very few pictures of the Sedona area, but indeed, what I saw was beautiful.

[BobHunt]

Dave, I can tell even from your pictures that Isabelle is growing up! I think you look more rested now!