matt-sky

My Back Yard

2012-01-03T21:08:00.000-08:00

Mt. Silliman/ Meadow

Boob Rock

Hi Mom

2012-01-02T21:07:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the Cookies!
Do you know of a good Diet???
Love, Matt

Walking above the ocean

2011-12-11T20:49:00.000-08:00

A day above Moro

2011-11-30T19:49:00.000-08:00

Heather lake via the Watch Tower

2011-10-12T20:21:00.000-07:00

My new Puppy

2011-10-02T22:08:00.000-07:00

Giant Forest Prescribed Burn

2011-10-02T22:02:00.000-07:00

Oh hey!

2011-09-25T19:54:00.000-07:00

Here are Some Trees from Giant Forest

2011-09-25T19:40:00.000-07:00

All photographs are mine.
Not yours...

Close Encounter

2011-08-21T07:05:00.000-07:00

This big black bear was down in the meadow when I stopped. I got out of my jeep and we met as I was coming around the corner. Taken at night with no flash.

Today at Tokopah

2011-08-17T18:51:00.000-07:00

sun Set moon Rise

2011-08-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

Beetle Rock

2011-08-11T21:14:00.000-07:00

Waiting for the full Moon

2011-08-09T06:50:00.000-07:00

High Sierra Trail

2011-08-06T09:12:00.000-07:00

Eagle Scout Peak 12,040' at the top.

Eagle Scout and Lippincott Mtn.

Castle Rocks

Could be Panther Creek? Due to the run off there are more creeks than usual.

The HS trail beckons you to continue. 5.8 miles back and I had to stop for the return trip.

Back in Sequoia

2011-08-03T19:32:00.000-07:00

Sequoia Nut

Me with Sequoia Nut

Morro

2011-05-14T18:01:00.000-07:00

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

2011-04-25T22:54:00.001-07:00

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Pot

2011-03-28T21:43:00.001-07:00

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Fledge the GHO

2011-03-27T13:07:00.001-07:00

GHO in a box. I picked this guy up at the AZ Grand Resort. It took a fall along with his brother who somehow eluded capture. He has some major medical issues that include canker and some weird kind of growth on his right cheek that has pushed his beak out of alignment. This mouse gave it's life too a good cause.

I'll call him Fledged.

Mobile to blog

2011-03-24T22:27:00.001-07:00

Connected by MOTOBLUR™ on T-Mobile

Goofy me

2011-03-24T19:13:00.000-07:00

Just catching up with the old blog. I have had to many requests to not abandon my domain. Perhaps I will continue on this journey a little longer. My desires remain the same and my blessings are plentiful. Join me!!

Oh Arizona

2010-05-09T22:54:00.000-07:00

Ooooh you know I feeel soo Baaadd..

Is it Spring?

2009-11-29T16:04:00.000-08:00

2009-11-13T15:04:00.000-08:00

The "Man In The Maze" is a visual representation of the Tohono O'odham Indians belief in life, death and the life after death. The man at the top of the maze depicts birth. By following the pattern, beginning at the top, the figure goes through the maze encountering many turns and changes, as in life. As the journey continues, one aquires knowledge, strength and understanding. Nearing the end of the maze, one retreats to a small corner of the pattern before reaching the dark center of death and eternal life. Here one repents, cleanses and reflects back on all the wisdom gained. Finally, pure and in harmony with the world, death and eternal life are accepted.

That's a Rap it UP!

2009-10-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

400,00 Guests came through the North Rim lodge. Pretty amazing when you consider there are 180 rooms. 200 employees give or take helped with the daily progession. An amazing group of people themselves!

4 hours in Zion

2009-10-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

Cape Final Pano

2009-10-07T17:05:00.000-07:00

The Sun Will Set For You!

2009-09-30T10:15:00.000-07:00

Snake Skin Gulch Pictographs

2009-09-16T09:21:00.001-07:00

Kanab Creek Wilderness,

A gallery of pictographs dating back to 300 B.C.

For a hike discrption go to: www.toddshikingguide.com/Hikes/Arizona/Kaibab/Kaibab1.htm

Fire point

2009-09-10T09:08:00.001-07:00

15 miles off of hwy. 67 on forest road 223. Through the Kaibab Forest and back into GCNP. Takes you to Fire Point. A nice camp spot, permit required. I set out looking for the Buffalo along 67 and found the herd deep in the forest. Picked up all the trash at Fire Point and the return trip along 223.

This is Pretty Hot

2009-09-08T14:56:00.000-07:00

Marble View

2009-09-02T11:10:00.000-07:00

You haven't seen me in awhile. We are all talking about the end of the season. It has been very productive here on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. We just need to muster that last bit of energy for the big push to the end. Oh crap that means I need to start looking for another Job. This is the life of the seasonal worker. We live in Gods country for an extended period and are then thrust into reality. I am ready to keep my dreams alive...

Buffalo Dirt Bath

2009-09-02T10:42:00.000-07:00

This herd is a traffic stopper here in the park. They were introduced by Jim Owens in the early 1900's.

Lunch at the Office

2009-08-25T19:49:00.000-07:00

I'm glad I had time to make this Post.

Busy Busy Busy

In Flight

2009-08-04T23:38:00.000-07:00

Jacob Lake Lookout

2009-07-23T22:12:00.000-07:00

Happy Birth Day from the North Rim

2009-07-06T20:42:00.000-07:00

No fire works but plenty of water...

And drunken Mule Riders?

Dam River Trip

2009-06-30T17:59:00.000-07:00

From Glen Canyon Dam to Lee's Ferry. No rapids to cool us off but plenty of rain on the first part of our trip. This is a nice section of river that is a short half day. You start your trip going through a 2 mile tunnel down to the river.

I am looking forward to seeing my boy Noah this weekend. If he is still at http://www.bestfriends.org/ I hope to put him on hold for a month untill I can take him home. Good Dog!

Noah

2009-06-24T18:18:00.000-07:00

I wanted to get the word out about Noah. He is a white Lab, is a year and a half, and is such a nice dog. If I were allowed a dog he would be riding around in my truck. Go to http://www.bestfriends.org/ and check him out!

Deer Vs. Car

2009-06-08T18:16:00.000-07:00

You took a good hit
Over the windshield and into the ditch
So glad I could stop and say goodbye
To lend you a hand
On your land
I didn’t want to hurt you
Or see the fear in your eyes
Your were a good deer
And now you are done
We had a couple of minutes
You waited for me to pass
Your last breath we share
Sorry the other guy didn’t care
I hope it didn't hurt too much
You did a good job on his car
It didn’t go far
I hope you feel better
There are other places to share
Beautiful skies everywhere
I dragged you into view
In hopes that nothing is lost
Don’t worry the car is dead too
It was a Volvo
Heading for San Diego

Imperial Morning

2009-06-05T17:56:00.000-07:00

Texture (Thinking Aaron Siskind)

2009-05-18T17:34:00.000-07:00

Whats Going Down?

2009-05-12T18:57:00.000-07:00

On a trip to the Center of Creative Photography at the U of A I was able to request a viewing of any set of photographs from any Photographer within the archive. On this day I chose to see a series from Ansel Adams that were taken within the Grand Canyon. I am not sure how Ansel felt about working within GCNP as it really is not a place he is known to be in. We are all familiar with the grand images taken within his beloved Yosemite but the canyon photo's do exist.

I have personally felt that the canyon is Difficult to photograph. What do you like? Color or Black & White?

Take a trip to Tuscan. Visit the Center for Creative Photography! Make a reservation to see a collection for yourself. It is an amazing resource.

The pillows are fluffed, the water turned on, the ledges dusted, light bulbs changed, 300 new beds, windows cleaned, remodels complete, new carpet in the lodge, the floor in the sun room refinished, 200 water heaters lit, leaks fixed, chairs varnished, 200 employees on hand and we have a test run of the dinning room of the Grand Canyon Lodge on Thursday.

All of this equals 2 days and the North Rim is open!

Peace,

Matthew

Orphan Care

2009-05-01T17:58:00.000-07:00

I wanted to get these posted because I think they are awesome.
Enjoy! Give us your Tired your Hungry your Sick your injured. Orphan Care season is in full stream. Lots of birds come in after storms that have been blown out of trees. Cat attacks are another. These birds have a chance at the hands of Faith full volunteers.

Finch...

Thrasher...
Dove...

To much to Explore

2009-04-29T20:22:00.000-07:00

I broke my tripod cranking it down. All is well though, I called Maya and she is going to bring me two more. This is the back patio of the Grand Canyon Lodge. You can spit off the edge!

Cape Royal - Ansel Adams style

Flooded Meadow... You remember the meadows?

Here I am!

2009-04-26T20:38:00.000-07:00

Dreamed a Dream

2009-04-15T15:51:00.000-07:00

Good stuff from across the Pond...

I'll bet she goes all the way.

Check it out!

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ut68Set-w0o&feature=bz301

By they way I would like to get into Video and am researching Cameras. Please email me your suggestions for my fist video camera. There has to be a Techie out there who can give some good incite.

Perhaps you would like to give me one for free!

Good Bye my Friend!

2009-04-08T20:02:00.000-07:00

Above: Roby on the left. My 100th Skydive...
Below: Rob on the right.

Anger, frustration, lonliness, questions, and most of all a longing to say goodbye.

My dear friend you were a part of my life’s journey more than you know.

From the first meeting in 1987, docking with you in the skies, and the chemical experiences that consumed us in between. We grew with each other, fought with each other, and spent countless hours just having a realy good time! I miss you Rob! We all miss you! Anybody that knew Rob knows that he was no pussy. This guy would go to the end for you and more. I know because you did it for me buddy! This little punk will always remember you…

Blue skies my friend and save me a place!

Boulder Canyon, Superstition Wilderness

2009-03-22T17:17:00.000-07:00

Time to go Joe!

2009-03-11T13:49:00.002-07:00

Ok so this guy won the election by I dont know, Less than ten percent of the vote?

What is up Maricopa County? Do you like the abuse? Lets get this guy a pair of his own Pink Underwear...

Please, Please, oh Please, stop the abuse!!!

Anybody got a Pie?

Vote for Liberty Wildlife

2009-02-19T11:12:00.000-08:00

Hey why not vote for a great non profit such as Liberty.

copy and paste the below address, click on Peoples Choice Awards, scroll down and find Liberty Wildlife, Click and Submit.

www.azpbs.org/bemore

You have now helped save an injured native Arizonan Bird.

I thank you, and so do the Birds!

Also here is a link to Liberty Wildlife. Check it out!

Peace,
Matthew

I Need Sushi

2009-02-08T12:58:00.000-08:00

If you would like to buy me Sushi
Email me at mattsky04@yahoo.com.

I am a real good Sushi Partner!

Peace,

Matthew

Mmmmm Salmon!!

The Last Season

2009-01-28T09:48:00.000-08:00

I am reading the "Last Season" at the moment. The story of seasonal Ranger Randy Morgenson and his life in the back country of Sequoia Kings Canyon N.P. Wow what an adventure and quite a story. Having spent time in the parks I am familiar with some of the areas that he spent time in and also recognize some of the Characters. This makes it all the much more entertaining.

The book strikes a mood in me and feelings that I suppress. Also feelings that I need to express.

So much is going on for me and I am living life today as my mother would put it (by my frugal ways). I have a great hope and faith which makes me a rich man. Some people can relate while others are oblivious.

New people have come into my life that have opened new doors and instilled a new thought process. This has made me think of society as a whole and what it is I can do for the greater good. People today, I feel, need each other more and more.

WOW that is really deep!

Enjoy the Photo's!

Peace,

Matt

Liberty Wildlife (Maya Will Tell You About It)

2008-12-12T09:40:00.000-08:00

Located in Scottsdale is Liberty Wildlife. I will let Maya tell you about it!!!-Matt

Liberty Wildlife is a wildlife rehabilitation center out of Scottsdale, AZ. The mission is three-fold: rehabilitation, education, and research & conservation.

We take in sick, injured, and orphaned native Arizona wildlife. Whether avian, reptilian, amphibian, or mammalian: come one, come all. The ultimate goal is to rehabilitate the animals back to the wild. Red-Tailed Hawks, Desert Tortoises, Bullfrogs, and Coyotes all have a chance they might not have if they hadn't made it to our doors. We have a great success rate of somewhere around 50%!

Unfortunately, or fortunately (depending on how you look at it), not all the animals we are able to rehabilitate are rehabilitated to the point of release. In other words, they can become well but not well enough to make it on their own back in their wild environments. These animals are "rehabilitated non-releasables." Instead of being as nature intended, in the wild, they simply have a change in career. Some will become part of our foster program to raise the orphans that come in, and others, who show the propensity, will become part of our education program as wildlife ambassadors, showing the public how amazing they are and exactly why they warrant not only our awe, but also our protection.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, our R&C branch work with public works agencies to prevent any further injuries. Liberty's stance is that the best injury is the injury that never occurs. If R&C prevents just one Bald Eagle lead poisoning, or keeps just one family of Burrowing Owls from being paved over, or prevents just one Harris Hawk electrocution, their work is all worth it.

These are the first three birds that I learned to handle as a new member of the Education Team:
Trick is a Harris' Hawk who came to Liberty as a juvenile in 1999 with a disease called canker, which affects the inside of a bird's mouth. In her case, it spread into her eyes, diminishing her sight (a hawk's primary sense). Though treatment was able to kill the canker, her sight was permanently affected, and she wouldn't be able to hunt for herself in the wild.

Thick white bands across the ends of their tails and white rumps are sure field marks of this large, dark hawk.Possibly the most interesting Harris' Hawk behavior is their communal living. They live in family groups of up to seven in the breeding season and up to eighteen in the non-breeding season, but they will go a step further. They will actually hunt in family groups. Only one other hawk in the world, the Galapagos Hawk, lives in communally with their families, but they draw the line at hunting together. Here, you can see typical chocolate and rufous (red) Harris coloring and her orbital ridge, the "eyebrow" bone just above her eye to shield her species from the glare of the sun when they are soaring to find food.

Major threats to Harris' Hawks include electric shock, gunshot, being hit by cars and habitat loss. Cassie is a female American Kestrel who came to Liberty in 2002 with a broken right leg. Because she was still young, she was growing very rapidly, and her wrap needed to be changed every two to three days. Thus, she became habituated to human contact. Though her leg healed, it still gives her some problems, so she wouldn't be able to catch live prey in the wild.
Kestrels are one of the few raptor species that are sexually dimorphic in color and pattern. A sure sign she's a female, one can see the black striping all the way up a cinnamon tail. Her wings are the same cinnamon color. After her tail and wings, Cassie's streaky breast makes her femininity difficult to refute.

Males would have only one thick black stripe near the ends of their cinnamon tails and slate blue on their wings. Their breasts would be spotted, instead of streaked. As the smallest members of the Falcon family in North America (and the second smallest Falcon in the world), they have all the Falcon features. 1: a bird-heavy diet (though due to their size, they will also eat small rodents, small reptiles and insects). 2: toes which are pretty long relative to their body sizes thought to help when grasping through feather. 3: vertical black stripes under their eyes thought to deflect glare from the sun (called "malar stripes"). 4: a notch near the front of their beaks which help them dispatch prey quickly by severing spinal cords of their meals (called a "tomial tooth").

Major threats to American Kestrels are gunshot (when they are confused for doves during dove hunting season), Spring tree trimming and habitat loss. Twilight came to Liberty in 2002 as a juvenile with nothing physically wrong with her. A family's dog had decided the she needed protecting and brought her into its dog bed. The family found her, but because they didn't know where to take her, they took care of her as best they could (which was VERY WELL). They fed her all the right foods, and she grew up under their care for some time. Because they were who fed her and who she was socialized to at such a young age, she gained her identity from people, a process known as imprinting.

When a wild animal is imprinted, they cannot be released back into the wild, because they would seek out humans for food. That could be dangerous for them, putting them in all kinds of situations they don't belong. In the case of a larger bird, it might also be dangerous for us if, say, they landed on our heads (the highest perch, where a bird is most apt to land) in the process. Imprinted animals also would not know to seek out others of their species during breeding season, a time of year when it really takes two to survive due to the fierce competition for territory and food.
"Screech Owl" is actually a horrible misnomer, as they don't actually screech. As a matter of fact, their call is a beautiful sort of bouncing ball sound that starts out slow and gets faster as it continues.

Western Screech Owls are often hit by cars and face the same habitat loss that Kestrels face.

I hope I've given you more information than you had before you began reading this post. If we can continue to educate the public on the threats to these amazing animals and what we can do to prevent them, then we can keep more of these animals in the wild, where they belong, and fewer of them in permanent rehab situations or worse.-Maya

Desert Botanical Gardens

2008-10-21T15:30:00.000-07:00

No this is not the same butterfly but just a few of a thousand or so that have been imported to the garden. For a few extra bucks you can walk amongst the little guys in all their splendor. you can look at the beauty of these monarks or feel sorry for them if you want. They are farm raised if that makes you feel better. Hey I just look at it as a photo op. You can have a copy of one if you like. Just do the old right click save thing.

A lot nicer of a posting anyhow. Sorry you had to look at Sheriff Joe's ugly mug for so long.

Hey you all have a Good day!

Peace

Solar Tubes

2008-10-06T22:07:00.000-07:00

I have taken on some new interests and and curious if anyone has knowledge about Solar tubes as a means for lighting a room? A solar tube is a skylight of sorts and filters and diffracts light through a tube and into a room. My question is how much light is actually provided? the price tag for one of these guys is around $600.00 installed but the do it yourselfer such as myself could have one in for $250.00 or less.

I am interested as I have given my home the nickname of the "bomb shelter". A solid block home with very little natural lighting. I have done research and find good results but want to know more before I cut a hole in my roof/ceiling.

I have say a 7" space between ceiling and outer roof and am curious if this small space to run the tubing would add or take away from the light provided. Since we live in the desert do you think the natural light wold add heat to the room?

With such a small space I could just find the center of a joist and run a long drill bit straight through ceiling and roof to find center. (He He) Installation should be a breeze.

One cool thing I have heard after people install Solar Tubes is that they find themselves trying to turn off the lights when they leave a room. So my guess is you would not want one of these guys in your bedroom if you are trying to sleep in. I think it might be a good option for my living and dinning rooms.

Another question is how big of one does one need. They come in sizes like 10", 13" and bigger. The rooms are about 16'x14'.

What do you think?

Email me or just add a comment as an anonymous user.

Thanks guys you are the best.

Going Green,

Matt

mattsky04@yahoo.com

Library Mural In LA.

2008-10-04T18:02:00.000-07:00

You will have to ask Maya to explain this one....
She is pictured holding the card up on the right..

Peace Yo!

Views From Mt. Ord

2008-10-04T17:39:00.000-07:00

An amazing day at the Mt. Ord Lookout. Temps on the valley floor were hovering around 110 deg . and a nice breezy 95 deg. at 8,000 ft. Teresa the fire boss gave me a ride to get acquainted with the workings of the lookout and to spend some time with Rob at his post. This Lookout has a residence at the base and is way cute. Hoping to get up there this winter to do some projects. We will see. By the way we spotted a smoke just below Mogoyon Rim. It was lightining caused and was currently being worked by Tonto.

Whats a Boy To Do

2008-09-20T01:30:00.000-07:00

Now I know you all are still coming by because my counter keeps growing. How cool is that. Sorry for such a lapse in communication on my part. Just when you are gearing up for something you are shifting gears and heading in a different direction. It has taken awhile to find my place in the world but think that I am back on track. Can any of you relate?

The funny thing about life is that nobody has written a manual. I suppose that is a good thing because then I would have broken all the rules. No really...

I have taken on some creative endeavours that are occupying my time and must say that I am truly enjoying them. I have always wanted to take a class in ceramics and it has finaly fit in to my schedule. The class is through the City of Tempe and is too cool. The studio is state of the art and well equiped. I will be throwing on the wheel soon and turning out some pots that will make my mother proud. (She has to be cause shes me mum)!

I am curently working with Intel Doing Photolithography. Say that ten times real fast. This is an area that I have worked previously and am curently under a year contract. Good to be working in these times of whatever it is we are going thru. Working a compressed shift gives me more time for the things I love.

So mostly I want you to know that I think of you all often. I keep you all in my prayers and curse a few. The few know who they are.

Now Matt lets try and keep those resentments in check...

Peace,

Matthew

Above the City

2008-07-20T19:05:00.000-07:00

It is possible to experience wilderness within an urban setting if you look for it. Creatures adapted to the sprawl and live among us. I feel for the little Suburbanites as they dodge traffic, seek food, and territory. Think about it!

Who can tell me where I took these shots of the PHX area? If you live in the area it should be an easy one.

The first to respond will receive a free 8x10 of yours truly giving a big smile!!!

3 sec. f11 Nikon D54

Peace,

Matt-sky

A Simple Goodbye-But then Nothing is Simple

2008-06-23T13:04:00.000-07:00

An amazing send off by the crew. My main man pictured on the right...
Yahooooo!!!
Maya and Isabel. The best neighbor I've had on the mountain...
Big sister Katrina. Miss You!!

Here I am,

Thanks all for stopping by to explore the inner workings of my little part of the world.

I have some catching up to do but let’s just keep it simple ok?

I have arrived here at my home in Tempe AZ and have settled quite nicely. Yes I know Phoenix is hot. It is a dry heat we say to ourselves to make us more comfortable in our sweatiness. Actually after the cold mountain winter it feels quite nice.

So yes I have left the mountain and what a send off it was. Party after Party was thrown for Maya and myself. The hardest part of leaving my little community are the amazing people I am so fortunate to have made acquaintance. There is one old boy I will not soon forget.

"Everett"

Thank you my man for the inspiration, the good tidings and for being who you are! We passed by each other like a mountain breeze and I’m sure our paths will cross again.

As for me?

I am feeling much better, more relaxed, and have great plans for my future adventures.

Thank you for your blessings, your thoughts and prayers.

Much Peace,

Matthew

Out and About

2008-05-24T15:23:00.000-07:00

A fine trail day down to Ella falls. From Sunset Camp ground pick up the trail and head down towards Sequoia lake. Half way down is Ella, another 1.5 miles and you will be at Sequoia Lake. From the lake take the old forest road back up to the Grant Tree. A 6 mile loop...

Stressed out Kid

2008-05-21T16:41:00.000-07:00

Ok this is my last angry face for awhile I hope. The lodging is almost all open and the problems are starting to reside. I have lost it but recovered quickly. It is easy to forget why I work in a N.P. and I hope to get out there to explore some more real soon. Memorial day is upon us and I hope everyone will have a good one.

Peace ya'll,
Matt

Poppies along Yucca Point

2008-04-19T13:12:00.000-07:00

Poison Oak "Itch Itch Scratch Scratch"
The gate is open to Kings Canyon Lodge so I am making my way further and deeper into the Canyon. Spring always provides a trip to Yucca Point. A nice and quiet destination with an incredible water fall from 10 Mile Creek. Watch out for poison oak as I have never seen so much of the stuff. Did I mention the wild flowers?

Peace...

WMFR Night Response

2008-04-15T12:09:00.000-07:00

Out late at night saving lives ala Montecito. What a ten days it has been and quite an information overload. Feel free to come to me with your splinters, sprains, dislocations, fractures, head colds, siezures, shock, internal injuries, bloody noses, snake bites or if you would just like an asperin. I am Wilderness First Aid Certified!!!

Good Bye Robyn

2008-04-05T14:09:00.000-07:00

Robyn is continuing her adventures in Lake Powell and has left the mountain. I Met her a couple of years ago at Stoney Creek where she always bugged me for a bucket of paint and window screens. Sorry I never got to that Robyn! Anyhow I hope your journey is full and that your Tarrot comes true...

See you in the Fall!

You are a legand!!!

Peace

Freak Storm

2008-03-26T14:34:00.000-07:00

Yes it happened over night and I have never seen a storm like this!

4 feet of snow in a 12 hour period, even the weather forecaster missed this one. Well that's nothing new is it.

All of the roads are closed and there is no way in or out. From what they tell me it is going to be this way for a week. It is so so cold, and even my snow shoes are in effective. I had to dig my way out of my dorm room just so I could go and thaw out my water pipes. My snow blower won't start and my provisions are getting low. Not to mention they are forecasting 4 more feet over the next 2 days. Please Please Mom send cookies!

I have never seen anything like this. The mother of all storms I have to tell you. White out conditions with 30 mph wind gusts. I have lost all hope and have no idea how I am going to dig myself out of this one.

Happy April Fools!

Peace,

Matthew

P.S.

Please send provisions!!!

A few from Cambria

2008-03-14T11:46:00.000-07:00

Maya let me post this one. Kind of a snotty weekend so not many photos were taken. Lots of rain which meant lots of snow back on the mountain. Of course I was in big trouble when I returned back home. They really missed my shovel.
The Hearst castle to me was nothing more than a really big Pimp Pad.
The coast is amazing and Cambria is a very cool town.

Happy Easter Family and Friends!

2008-03-14T11:29:00.000-07:00

Longing for Spring

2008-03-03T18:25:00.000-08:00

Look to the empty space of a meadow
The journey of life is felt and spent
Filled with desires of growth or haste
The growth of a meadow can turn to waste
Time shows scars of hardship and pain
Till the space is filled with hope again
The desire of growth held within
Seeds of hope that have found the rain
Or the tears that came with a change
Life has come around again
The wait and time has made us whole
Like the growth of a meadow after the snow

Day Trippin

2008-03-01T10:40:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the pictures. Just out for a ski ala Monticeto....

Sierra Cat Haven

2008-02-16T19:15:00.000-08:00

A true jem of a place located down the hill from the park and out of the snow.

When we pulled into the Sierra Cat Haven, Maya and I looked at each other and said "wow" "We went somewhere!"

Ok so if you lived in Grant Grove village you would probably understand that it is very small and quaint. I will emphasize very small...

Anyhow This place is too cool. It is a haven used to educate the public about Cats of all kinds, the state of the breed and much much more.

I have never seen as many wild cats in one place.

The most adorable is a 6 month old Lion cub, the Jaguars are bad boys, the Tigers beautiful, and oh my the Snow leopard...

Enjoy,

Thanks for the Socks!!!

2008-02-08T10:44:00.000-08:00

It took awhile but low and behold I recieved a package yesterday containing a pair of socks!!

THANKS MOM!!
YOU ROCK!!

As per my offer I have sent my mom a beutifull 16x20 of the picture above. A $25.00 value. All that was required is to send me a pair of winter socks.

Come on people! Are you crazy?

Ok here is another chance.

I really need a new pair of Winter ski Gloves as I have destroyed 2 pairs thus far.

So send the Gloves to:

Matt Miller

P.O. Box 812

KNCP CA.,

93633

You will recieve a Beutifull 16x20 of the below Photograph taken from Big Baldy Ridge.

Peace,

Matt-Sky

Dump of the winter

2008-02-08T10:21:00.000-08:00

John Muir Lodge
The poor old Tent Cabins...
Jojeen's Place
Meadow and the old gas station.
Rustic Cabin 311 under 6 feet...

Ola!

We have hit the anual snow fall for the winter and are at 110%. As far as I know we have had over 8 feet in the last three months. I hope all of you in Phoenix can appreciate my hard work but really feel you need more pictures to appreciate. ENJOY!

Our last storm brought close to 3 feet and was the record for the winter thus far.

The Sequoias are magnificant!

Dont let the snow scare you! Come to see me! Park it on my floor or take advantage of the reduced rates at the JML.

The Life of a Snow Blower

2008-02-08T10:05:00.000-08:00

Blowing the trails around employee housing... when cranking up a blower you must give a big YeeeeeHaaaa!
Dowee Digging in. Dow my next door nieghbor is a blessing as he keeps my porch clear. A Real Diggie!
Heading down the trail. After a two footer I am Blowing at 6 am.
Aint the snow Perty!!!
Your opperator Diggie Dog Matt-Sky

That other Park

2008-02-01T09:44:00.000-08:00

Greatings friends and family.

So I jumped into my car and hit Yosemitee leaving one precious article behind. A certain person that would have provided me with much joy on a cold night. I have learned to take things a little slower in my days, and have become aware of how it is important to not think so much of ones self, but to focus on the well being of another. This has resulted in companionship, friendship, and spiritual growth.

I am at the moment trying to put down the smokes and have had this suggestion put forth to me by others who care about my health. I will tell all in my own defense that this is not an easy one for me. I am thinking of the benifits and am all to aware of them. My goal is to be in good health for the up in comming season so that I may break my current milage record of close to 200 miles hiked within Sequoia/Kings Canyon within a year. So when spring comes around I hope that you will all meet a differant Matt-Sky!

Welcome to Hume

2008-01-12T10:51:00.001-08:00

Winter Lookout

2008-01-12T10:16:00.000-08:00

Feeeew Boy I tell you what. It does not get any better than this!
Quite a work out but the rewards are breath taking.
Quite siriene....
A few people in my life question why I have chosen my curent life path. They say things such as (why are you up on that mountain? why dont you
stay here in phoenix? You could get a good job and live in your house...)
Well a day like today beats a traffic jam, I am trying to find myself and have found much of God, the mountain is kind to me, and the challenges are great!

Park ridge after controled burn...
Peace Out...
Eshom Point

Grant Grove Christmas

2007-12-22T17:25:00.001-08:00

I have to post some photo's from the grove as it is the location of the Naitions Christmass Tree. Merry Christmas To family and friends. Miss you all so please keep in touch! I have learned much of the use of shovel and snow blower. Did you know if you put WD-40 on a shovel the snow slides off better? Yes just another use for the miracle lube.

Please send Warm Socks!!!

Matt-Sky

PO BOX 812

KCNP, CA.,

93633

Who ever sends the socks first will get a Beautiful 16x20 0f the photo below named (Growing out of Snow)...

Peace on Earth,

Just Say No To Hillary

Happy New Year!!!

A snow shoe out of Monticito

2007-12-22T17:15:00.001-08:00

Closure of the road at the moment forces you to shuttle in to Montecito.
Main lodge and various cabins. The trails are groomed and are very nice.
I blazed a trail up to Big Baldy ridge to get a view of the northern side. What a cool view with the low cloud day.

I Love You Arizona

2007-12-06T22:46:00.000-08:00

For a taste of the desert click on this link...

Turn on your sound too!

www.objflicks.com/arizona.htm

It is always with me...

Peace ya'll!!!

Happy Thanks Giving

2007-11-18T19:10:00.000-08:00

God Bless America

Go and See the Movie "Lions For Lambs"
My favorite Sequoia
A pair for me Mum!
Little Boulder Grove

3 Kids on Morrow Rock

2007-11-13T19:31:00.000-08:00

The road to Morrow Rock is closed and is being repaved. It looks really nice by the way. It will make transit easier for the new shuttles. Yes I am a stud!
Robin taking in the view after the 2.5 miles.
Giggle giggle giggle
Oh my God he is so cute!
Kaweah River Drainage

Rowell Meadow

2007-11-13T19:20:00.001-08:00

Kickin it in the meadow. 5 miles round trip
20'2" Snow Pole. CA Dept. of Water Resources uses Rowell as a snow survey point. Meadows get a bit more snow as the wind will twirl around and put it all in the middle
Mitchle Peak in the back ground..
Along the trail...

Haloween In Grant Grove

2007-11-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

Here is an innocent girl for my cauldron...
Oh Bert it's not that Bad...

How nice...
Down on the farm...

2007-11-02T10:04:00.000-07:00

Come to the John Muir Lodge my pretty!
I am so scared Ernie will protect me...
Who invited the Rangers...
Devil Girl...

2007-11-02T09:50:00.000-07:00

AHHHHHH....

Welcome to Grant Grove, Do you have a Reservation?
Stan the man has the parts you need...

Yes mam,
I can get rid of that Dead Mouse for you... Would you like a Squirrel with that?

Birds Eye View

2007-10-14T19:52:00.001-07:00

Spent the day in Cedar Grove. I caught this guy on the drive down. Also hiked into Mist falls. Always a good one.
Peace Ya'll

More from the burn

2007-10-14T19:33:00.000-07:00

Park Ridge controled burn

2007-10-14T19:10:00.000-07:00

A pretty exciting day. This controled burn took place in my back yard. I have seen controled burns before but this one was impressive due to the amount of fuel that was involved. they started at the top of the ridge and worked thier way down dropping excelerant from a helicopter.

I crossed the barricade and walked up Panoramic Point road to catch the action. I got busted by Engine 51 but it was worth it of course. Alot of snags were falling. Dead trees that burned in the middle and then just snap and come crashing down. Very exciting...

31st anual SEKI photo contest

2007-10-09T20:32:00.000-07:00

This photo (growing out of Snow) took second in the Giant Sequoia category. The tree is located in Grant Grove and was captured on March 15, 2006.

Wanna buy a copy?

Cheep?

12 x 18 mounted and framed for $100.00.

Better hurry - Christmas is coming soon...

Get yours today.

Trail to Emerald

2007-09-29T19:20:00.000-07:00

I'm a smiling cause it's been a heck of a long time since I was able to get into the back country. All work and no play makes Matt a dull boy...
Edge of Watch Tower.
Not sure of the names of these domes but I will tell you they are on the North side of Tokapah valley.
Aster Lake, 4.7 miles from the trail head.
Emerald. I wanted to push on another mile to Pear Lake but I will tell you it was pretty darn cold...

Yes I am the Victor!

2007-09-29T19:09:00.001-07:00

Rattle Rattle, Scratch Scratch, Rattle Rattle- This guy was a pain in my arse. He was living with me for a good 2 weeks and foiled every attempt in getting him. Ok if you think this is sad I will tell you that I tried a live trap and he wouldn't go in, I left the door open and he wouldn't go out, I even tried to coax him into leaving. This guy put up a good fight. I at one time had three snap traps set with Peanut Butter and he would just help himself to dinner. He ate my bread, My granola bar, a bag of chips, a little more peanut butter and SNAP!!!

Bear gets lunch

2007-09-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

Boulder on Buena Vista

2007-09-22T18:37:00.000-07:00

Stormy Day at Park Ridge

2007-09-11T19:37:00.000-07:00

This little smoke made my weekend a learning experience. Early in the morning I heard a 2 thunder claps and a couple of hours later there it was. I called in the location and later in the day was told that I was a section off. One section is one square mile. Well anyhow It was a smoke Guys.
Straying Clouds....
Nice Cell over Buck Rock Area. OH Yes Please Come My Way!
North East of Park Ridge
Calm Before The Storm

Millers do Sequoia

2007-09-11T19:14:00.000-07:00

Your Host - The stressed out Cool Guy!
That there is a pretty darn Big Tree! "Sugar Bowl Grove"
Need I Say More?
Me old man, The man, The Boss, The Big Guy, Pops...
The Girls catching up on who's who at the John Muir...

Thialand invades Park Ridge

2007-07-31T18:58:00.001-07:00

A group of 12 came to visit the Look Out over the weekend. I hope that I was the highlite of thiere trip. They were full of questions. The most popular was the fact that I sleep here. Do you ever go down? (Yes when i have to go to the bathroom) How long do you stay? (Just for the weekend, I am a volunteer). Do you get paid? (No I volunteer). What is the elevation? (7,540'). After all of this I think they were still a little puzzled. That's ok I learned that they speak a form of Chinese but I forgot what they call it.

2007-07-31T18:58:00.000-07:00

The whole Gang...