"I dream of a hard and brutal mysticism in which the naked self merges with the nonhuman world and somehow survives...Paradox and bedrock."-Edward Abbey

15 January 2012

Miguel Loco

When I talk about Miguel Loco I will say he knows things about the Backcountry I do not, which is legion. After all, he is the master,  I am the humble student. It is from him I have acquired most of my gear and learned of a great many of the secret places within the borders of our Sahel.

We lament the decided lack of snow this season. He chides Sabina and I for not at least going on an overnight last summer. Over a map he speaks of places with names straight out of High Country mythology; Hell's Hole and Bobcat Creek. I promise to speak with him on the subject with more sincerity come spring. 

"When you're ready, come see me, and we'll find the perfect place for you to go," He says. There is a glint of whimsical madness in his eyes and a big cheshire cat's grin on his face. "You won't regret it."

I don't doubt him for a second...

Sabina's eyes track toward the high peaks, which mark the outback of our Sahel. The woodsmoke scent on the wind carries the taste of campfires, wilderness, and stars miles away from anything else that walks upon two legs. Spring is sooner than we think, but perhaps later than we hope. Neither one of us can hardly wait.

7 comments:

  1. You really know how to paint a unique picture. Thanks for sharing this.

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    1. Thank you for the compliment. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

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  2. I'm not sure what part I liked best. The "glint of whimsical madness" was...a great phrase, but the images conjured in the woodsmoke? Loved it.

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  3. You're a madman, Robbie. Sleeping outdoors? By choice? (gimme shelter)

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    1. Now, now...it affords one better access to stargazing, as well as getting back in touch with the inner hunter-gatherer. Barring that, these exercises can certainly help one appreciate such trivialities as electricity, refrigeration, and running water.

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  4. I would also be waiting impatiently for Spring with that sort of opportunity available.

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