Today we hiked in the Devil's Backbone Wilderness Area in the Mark Twain National Forest.  The trail made its way through tall pines and hardwoods and variety of wildflowers, and birds and butterflies were the only other creatures we saw.  We followed a stream to a waterfall that flowed into a pristine pool before we turned back, with a momentary regret, for home.  

Home again, to Don's loving arms and a waggling-tailed dog.  Life is good.