Blue Tangle Lake in the Trinity Alps

 

On Mother’s Day, my son sent me photos from his overnight trip to Blue Tangle Lake in the Trinity Alps.

A lovely, remote lake tucked into a granite bowl with meadows and quiet trails leading down to the water.

Elevation: 5,758 feet.

A good place for some alone time.

We scattered Michael’s ashes in the Trinity Mountains in May 2023, from a helicopter. This year, on the May 8 anniversary, Navy hiked in alone just to fish, and to think. He misses his older brother.

Foodie went camping with a friend.

And what did I do?

I went about my day, keeping myself busy. It ended up being a good day. After all, I’ve got 23 years of experience behind me. And I’d already had my moment a few days earlier, and I was good.

That’s growth. Thank you, Lord.

The sun casts its reflection across the granite mountain.

Navy always shows me his catches... 

Some good fishing there. 

and good eating, too. 

It was so remote up there that Navy didn’t see another person until he hiked out the next morning. He did, however, hear a few Bigfoot calls… 

Of course, he did. It’s the Trinity Alps.

Looking for Bigfoot

We spent the day out yesterday, and when we got home in the late afternoon, the house was 81 degrees inside. It wasn’t even that hot outside, only about 93.

No air was coming out of the registers, so my husband changed the filter. I checked my old blog (My Morning Cup of Coffee from 2007 to 2023) and found the post about it. Turns out it was installed on October 30, 2012.  This morning, as soon as the heating and air place opened, I called them, and by 10 a.m., they were here. It was the capacitor, which the tech had on his truck. $239 later, it was fixed. Of course, today’s much cooler, only hitting 81, and cooler days in the mid 70's for the rest of the week. 

We definitely dodged a bullet, and it's something we’ll need to keep in mind over the next few years.

Until Next Time, 

Debby

Old Town Lewiston

As a child, I spent my summers camping by the banks of Trinity Lake near the dam that you might be able to see in the far distance of this image.  It was there that I learned how to water ski and experienced my first case of heat exhaustion when I was just eight years old.

Here’s the first part of the day if you missed it. ⬇️

https://myshastahome.blogspot.com/2025/07/a-peaceful-haven.html

Before heading home, I wanted to revisit the small mining town of Lewiston, California. It's been a few years since I last drove through. 

Lewiston has a long history, dating back to 1851, when it was first established as a town. The post office opened in 1853, marking its official establishment. Once a bustling center for gold mining during the Gold Rush, Lewiston was built along the original trail connecting Shasta and Weaverville.

Source: Western Mining History

Bridge over the Trinity River at Lewiston, California, 1910

Look at the bridge now. 

Perched atop the bridge, the Christmas Star shines brightly, drawing in visitors from all around the area during the holiday season. It's a local attraction that I've yet to experience! Somehow, life always seems to throw other plans our way, but this year, I told my husband: 

"We’re going to see it this year!"

Source: KRCR

The celebration comes alive with fireworks lighting up the winter sky and a parade brimming with lights. It looks like an experience that truly captures the festive spirit!

The chill in the air up in those mountains is invigorating - it's the kind of cold that wraps around you like a cozy blanket, making it feel just like Christmas!

As we approached the bridge, it was a charming one-vehicle bridge that seemed to whisper stories of the past. We paused so I could snap a photo. Sure, it creaks and groans beneath the weight, but that's part of the fun. I'm confident it's still standing strong after all these years.

My mother battled Gephyrophobia, a fear of bridges, and it was heartbreaking to watch her struggle with it as I grew up.  Her anxiety reached a point where she no longer visited us (and her grandsons), unable to face the daunting task of crossing the San Francisco Bay with its bridges. Growing up, witnessing her fear taught me a powerful lesson: I refuse to let those same fears (or any irrational fear)  take hold of my life. 

As we drove onto the bridge, I couldn’t help but pause to soak it all in. No pun intended. 😁

As we spun the car around to return to the bridge, my eyes were drawn to a stunning church nestled among the mountains, its architecture harmonizing perfectly with the landscape.

But first, we have to drive through town. 

A mercantile shop and a gift shop are there, and that's it. Where is everyone? It is a Saturday - It says they're open. Too hot to leave the dog in the car. Fortunately for us, we live close enough so we can come back when it's not so hot and Laydee can stay home. Most of these places don't have AC. 

This sign truly captured my heart! I want one in my yard! 

Gee, what would mine say? 

Sundial Bridge

Shasta Dam

San Francisco

Castle Crags

Mt Shasta

The picnic table called to me, nestled beneath the shade of the trees. It stood alone in the tranquil silence. But looks are deceiving - it was 108 degrees. 

Here's the delightful old Congregational church, built in 1896, that still stands next to a cemetery that whispers the tales of those who once roamed these grounds. Yet, it’s clear that both the church and the cemetery could use a little love and attention. It’s a pity our state hasn’t embraced the opportunity to preserve these cherished landmarks as part of the State Park System, much like they did with the historic town of Shasta.

The once quaint old school house has transformed into a quaint public library, a change that feels perfectly suited to its new purpose.

The last time I visited, it was a museum of their gold mining history, and the town. 

Do you have a library book that needs to be returned?

Built in 1862 

The charming one-room schoolhouse carries a remarkable legacy, having opened its doors during the presidency of Abraham Lincoln and its journey continued through the decades, finally closing in 1961 during the John F. Kennedy administration.

On Saturday, I was determined to get out of the house and beat the sweltering heat, especially with temperatures reaching a blistering 111 degrees at our place! 

We were all, Laydee included, beat by the time we came home.  Thank you for joining me on my little day adventures. I'll post an update on what we did on Sunday eventually. 

Take Care and God Bless. 

Debby

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A Peaceful Haven

 

In the gentle embrace of nature's beauty, tranquility envelops me, creating a peaceful haven where stillness reigns supreme.

In a world filled with noise and chaos, I crave the serene embrace of tranquility.

As the moments unfold, time seems to stretch, allowing me to savor each second. Time moves so quickly and I don't want to miss a thing. 

I sit by the water's edge as Laydee joyfully splashes in the water. Around us, ducks and geese glide effortlessly at a distance, and dragonflies flit gracefully above. while raptors are soaring overhead. 

There is a symphony of nature’s whispers. I can hear it -  creating a moment that feels both wild and serene. 

The waters shimmer like glass under the sun, embraced by a background of lush forests, untouched by wildfire. 

The hot, dry sun blazes in the sky, but its deep warmth seeps into my bones, which feels undeniably good.

A tranquil sanctuary

In the distance, a dam stands proudly, guarding the flowing snowmelt from a long, snowy winter. Its protective embrace nurtures the vibrant life that now flourishes within this sanctuary, a testament to nature's resilience and beauty.

On this calm day of rest, my spirit grows stronger. I take a deep breath - it's time to start my way back home. May the sweetness of this quiet time give me strength throughout this week ahead. 

Lewiston, Lake in the Trinity Alps. 

Saturday morning. 

The Rawness of Nature

The text photos are beginning to flood in...

What you see blanketing the ground is a layer of snow. 

We scattered my son Michael's ashes in the serene surroundings of the Trinity Alps. It holds profound significance for us, symbolizing our connection to him. The beauty and tranquility of the area make it a truly special place.

Soaring at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet or higher, the landscape unfolds in a breathtaking panorama, where the air becomes crisp and invigorating.

These photos of the backpacking adventure were exclusively tackled by the younger members of the group, including my sons.  My husband recognized his limitations and chose to sit this one out, along with Eric, who has an artificial leg.  It’s a bittersweet feeling, reminiscing about those days when he could conquer any trail. I'm glad he had some company. 

It certainly appears to be quite chilly to me -crisp air and some snow glistening on the ground.

Gazing towards the west, the majestic mountains stand guard over the horizon. Beyond their rugged peaks lies the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. However, the journey to reach the coast requires traversing several more formidable mountain ranges, each offering its own challenges and breathtaking vistas along the way, which would take days. This is rugged country. 

Here's my old man, standing in front of his sleeping sack. He said at night he felt the hammock swinging in the wind.  

A couple of weathered tents - Each tent tells a story, whispering secrets of past journeys under starlit skies. 

Our Pastor lay upon the cold ground - He's young and an outdoorsman - he can handle it. 

This isn’t just “camping” — this is true roughing it, where the comforts of home are replaced by the rawness of nature.

 

Memories Made

I'm pleased to report they all came back safe and sound. 

I had noted that the weather had taken a turn for the chillier, courtesy of a cold front sweeping down from Alaska, which lingered in our region for a couple of days. This time, the weather report proved accurate. The temperature plummeted to a brisk 29 degrees in the rugged Trinity Alps. They even witnessed snow flurries in the morning. 

My sons remarked that my husband had no trouble managing his lighter load during the journey. It was clear that all his meticulous preparation paid off. In the weeks leading up to the trip, he had been training with a well-packed backpack filled with bottled water, gradually acclimating himself to the weight. Additionally, he had taken to riding his bike regularly. This preplanning made a significant difference, proving that taking the time to prepare is far more effective than simply jumping into a strenuous overnight hike without prior preparation.

He’s feeling sore, but he accomplished his goal. When I asked if he’d consider doing it again next year, he said that it was still too soon to make a decision. This morning at church, I noticed that most of the men didn’t attend, but my husband was there, standing out among the crowd. I turned to him and whispered, “They’re half your age, and yet you showed up—now that speaks volumes!”

Meanwhile, back at home.

 I noticed the temperature had dropped to a comfortable 70 degrees, with strong gusts of wind - an unsettling reminder that where there’s wind, there’s an ever-present risk of fire. My phone buzzed incessantly, issuing 33 urgent notifications about nearby wildfires. These fires were caused by human hands, through recklessness or deliberate action. We know that we have arsonists living among us. 

Fires have always been my Achilles' heel; I can face most challenges with a steady heart, but the mere thought of flames sends a chill down my spine. The haunting images I've seen and the harrowing tales shared by friends echo in my mind, amplifying my dread. I can’t shake the fear of being caught, unable to escape in time. I know I am not alone. 

I had intended to treat myself to a delicious double meat burger from In-N-Out. However, I hesitated, torn between my concern for Laydee and Susie, who were at home, and I didn't want the unthinkable to happen and not be able to get to them. In the end, my grand dinner comprised nothing more than some leftover potato salad.

By 8 pm, the wind had died down, and I stopped getting alerts on my phone. I was then able to read in bed peacefully till lights out. 

I watched the movie The Conclave on Amazon, and I genuinely enjoyed it.  It had a captivating plot that kept me engaged throughout, and I believe my husband would have appreciated it just as much. The suspense built steadily, culminating in an unexpected twist at the end that completely took me by surprise. 

Navy successfully reeled in a fish.

They all came straggling in around 5:30 yesterday - they looked tired, a little smelly, and plenty dirty but had that glow on them of a time well spent. 

In response to the unfolding events, remember that God is with us in every circumstance, and we can rely on His strength and guidance as we navigate these difficult times (Philippians 4:6-7).

Debby

 

And they're off...🥾🥾🥾

🥾🥾🥾🥾🥾🥾

From last year - 

👆👉 Off into the Woods 

they go...👇👈

After much anticipation, the 32-hour backpacking trip has finally arrived, and I feel a mix of relief and exhaustion. The past two weeks have been filled with my husband's endless talk and $pending on extra gear, much of which he didn’t even pack. Men and their hobbies. 

🏕️ It almost didn’t happen.

 The Pastor informed my husband that he couldn’t use his bike on the trail due to the enforcement of forestry service restrictions. (No bikes on trails)  Then, the driver scheduled to take them suddenly announced he would be very late. My husband faced tough choices: 

1. Pack his CPAP machine, a burdensome necessity.

2. Go without it, risking poor sleep and safety 😴 

3. Bow out of the trip entirely.

Just when it looked bleak, my youngest son, Navy, stepped in and offered to carry his devices. With both sons' help, they can lighten his load and set off a bit ahead of schedule.

❄️🌨️

The weather has turned colder, with temperatures dropping to a predicted 28 degrees in the Trinity Alps. (Thanks Alaska)  Fortunately, they are well-prepared in long johns and thermal sleeping bags rated to 10 below.  It will be my husband’s first time sleeping in a hammock instead of a tent - a risky decision that piques my curiosity about what his Chiropractor will think!  😬

😎😎

While the men might be freezing their bums off, I find myself basking in a delightful day with temperatures hovering between 78-81. This unseasonably cool weather for this time of year is a refreshing gift, and I’m more than happy to embrace it, knowing it won't last for long. 

I searched my Google Photos for this image from a past Summer Solstice at the Sundial Bridge, capturing a yoga class that arrived just in time to observe it. 

Nestled in my river town, the Sundial Bridge elegantly spans the Sacramento River, serving as a picturesque gateway to the scenic River Trail. This architectural marvel is celebrated as one of the largest functioning sundials in the world, attracting visitors year after year who gather to revel in its beauty and significance.

For me, the summer solstice is a reminder of God as the Master Creator of all things, intricately crafting the sun, moon, and stars, as described in Genesis. The ebb and flow of the seasons, along with the celestial dance of heavenly bodies, compose a vivid tapestry of His magnificent creation. Through this lens, I find a deep appreciation for the beauty and order of the natural world, which reflects God's boundless creativity and power.

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

Psalm 19:1 

A photograph of Foodie, fully immersed in his surroundings, captured amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Trinity Alps, showcasing his passion for nature.

Have fun guys! 

The Annual Men's Church backpacking adventure

It's that time of the year - time for the Men's annual Hike to the Trinity Mountains 

In this photo, you can see my son, whom I call Foodie, in camouflage, alongside my husband during last year's overnight hiking trip with our Church. 

Although I usually avoid sharing personal family images, this one offers a glimpse without too much detail. 

A standard backpack for an overnight hike should weigh in at or around 40 pounds, tops.  But his CPAP machine and battery backup alone weighed about 25 pounds. With his other gear, he exceeded that 40 lb limit, which made the hike challenging enough for him to believe that this was his last backpacking trip. 

😥

 To accommodate the CPAP and battery, he developed a plan to make it easier. He is bringing his mountain bike to carry this heavy equipment and his supplies. IT looks like it will work. Eric, his buddy with the plane, has an artificial leg, and he does this, and this is where my husband got the idea. It should work, plus he is riding with Eric in his truck to the trailhead. 

This is when you have to just trust your man.

And Trusting God for his safety. 

Snow was still in them hills - this time last year. They will no doubt see some patches of snow this time.  The temperatures should be around 65 with lows of 40 at night. Which, in my personal taste, is perfect hiking weather. I no longer backpack. Day hikes are the best I can do. 

I took these images from a video recorded during last year’s hike, which is why they may appear slightly blurred. However, they still convey the stunning mountain vistas that showcase the grandeur of the granite mountains in the background.

Boulder Lake  - from last year's hike. 

Elevation 6700 feet. 

There is another hike that day, going up and over that mountain (Tapie Peak), which reaches an elevation of 7435. 

This year's hike is special because my youngest son, Navy, is joining the hike, which brings me joy. Both of my sons are born-again Christians, and are prodigals - but work commitments keep them from attending Sunday services. Navy also faces challenges as his wife is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and the family is pressuring him to join which complicates his navigation of their differing beliefs. Her ancestors were original Mormon pioneers.  

This is when you have to just trust your son (and God) and stay out of it. 

Last year, Foodie shared a positive relationship with Pastor Josh, who is a few years older and relatable. He appreciates the supportive group of men in their community, including police officers and outdoor enthusiasts, which gives him a sense of belonging. As my middle child, Foodie has always been a bit of a rebel, and while he has totally turned around, it's promising to hear him relaxed around law enforcement. 

Afterwards, they all gather at a pizza place just outside Douglas City.

I'm so EXCITED for my alone time. 

So they leave early on Friday morning around 6:45 am (yes!) And I'll have the house to myself until about 4-5 pm on Saturday. 

The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delights in his way.

Psalm 37;23

So that's the latest here - 

Keep Looking UP! 👀

Debby