Northern Saskatchewan 2013 - Other


An area of tall pine trees burned in 2010 (three years ago).  The seeds from the fire-opened cones fallen from the trees then had the opportunity to germinate.  From a distance it looks like a lush green lawn.  The seedlings are about three inches high and will eventually be quite thick, then thin out as the dominant trees win.  Then the process of forest fire rejuvenation will take place again.  Most of the fires in the remote areas such as this are started by lightning strikes.  On two occasions over the years, I have seen a lightning strike hit a nearby tree that burst into flames.


My leather boots which finally wore out.  On their last portage the one boot required duct tape to hold it together.  (I get teased about it on the Outside, but I use duct tape for all kind of purposes and wouldn't be without it.)
Rest In Peace.  I said a prayer to the clothing gods for a great and trusty partner for the last two years.  Over the years I have similarly disposed of several items of camp gear, including a broken paddle, other boots, worn-out jeans.


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There are strange things done in the midnight sun
 By the men who moil for gold;
The Arctic trails have their secret tales
 That would make your blood run cold;
The Northern Lights have seen queer sights,
 But the queerest they ever did see
Was that night on the marge of Lake Lebarge
 I cremated Sam McGee.
- From "The Cremation of Sam McGee" by Robert Service