8.08.99

Yesterday Angela and I went hiking. A long drive north, through Darrington, to the Cascades. Dark skies and humid air. The walking was nice, the chatting incessant, which is unusual for me as I like to hike in silence mostly. It started to rain and then more rain. Giant drops pelting Gore-Tex and bare legs. Lightning five seconds before thunder. Darker then, the trail lit by white poles of birch and emerald floor lamps of fern. Rocks were slippery and there were puddles where none were before. Gorgeous darkness, the brooding clouds same color as the slick and chiseled peaks across the valley from us. The sound of rain on leaves and earth felt like safety. Not deterred by rain but concerned about the lightning: We turned around. Sat in the car fogging up the windows while we ate lunch. Pulled the slices of turkey and ham from the sandwich I'd bought at the Arlington Food Pavilion; called it mayonnaise and bread. Love that mayonnaise. Was a great hike. Today no clouds whatsoever and there was no avoiding a bike ride. A short one ten miles north and back on the Burke-Gilman, weaving in and out of rollerbladers and dads towing kids in trailers. Quintessentially August: Bright hot sun and a mild breeze carrying the refreshing chill of water. Riding fast with agility, arms extended, head down. Music loud.

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