Up In The Hills

It's some sunny wintery morning in the mountains of south Central Spain. From a distance, the mountains are intriguing and beautiful. Up close, they are even more beguiling. The subtle colors between shade and sun are simply gorgeous. Pure mountain light.

One needs layers to hike this time of year. It's warm in the sun, and chilling in the shade. Don't move too fast, nor slow and you should be fine. Like all things, one needs balance. But I can't help myself. I'm pushing it. I haven't hiked hard in days, and I want to sprint up this trail. I love to see what I can do.

Fortunately, the light is too good. And I stop to catch a few scenes. Im walking through a dark forest covered in thick moss and lichen. This is definitely a microclimate on the north side of the slope. It's shaded and moist, and very different from the rest of the canyon. There has to be a few salamanders here, but I leave them alone.

On top of the ridge the landscape changes again. Now its open winding and stony. On the sunny side of the hills are wild flowers freshly bloomed. Wild flowers in January… what a delight!

After 8 miles, we're getting tired. The path isn't easy. It's working me. My legs and stomach are asking where home is. It's not far. Just down that steep ass mountain. No problem.

I know what awaits the weary walker in this country: Tapas, beer and another sunset on the mountain peaks.

Spain is wonderful.