Guns and horses

Was up early this morning, so took an unplanned detour and rode out to Coon Bluff at sunrise. What a soothing and restorative place at that time of day. The gentle rushing of the river, a few geese and a blue heron flying by, just a hint of fall in the air as the sun peaks over the mountains.

And then, a real treat. Across the river, three of the wild horses cooling off and enjoying some breakfast; further upstream, another cluster; to my left, on my side of the Salt, another group, not 20 yards from me. Must have been at least 15 in all, including some moms with youngsters in tow -- the most I've ever seen in one place.

I could have done without the soundtrack of the season, however. Nothing like the staccato clap of dove hunters in the distance to disturb the serenity. I keep forgetting what it is that's so sporting about dressing in camo from head to toe and blasting away at little birds at sunrise. Or is it the satisfaction of rustling up some mighty good vittles?

And that's our word of the day

Vittles.

Today's shuffle

Ripplin' Waters, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

Ballad of a Well-Known Gun, Elton John

Blam, Elmer

Ka-pow, Fudd

Blam, Elmer

Ka-pow, Fudd

Blam, Elmer

Ka-pow, Fudd