Kuma’s 14th Birthday

            Happy birthday to me! I turned 14 years old today, but we celebrated all weekend long. I am loved! We kicked off the weekend by going to my all-time favorite lake in Prescott. I’ve blogged about it before, but you can never go wrong with Lynx Lake for a beautiful outing whether you are planning to hike, fish or just picnic.

The drive up was uneventful, but we were shocked to, once again, see a packed parking lot. No holiday weekend or special free day; nope, just lots of people with the same idea. Remember, the day-use fee is $5 per vehicle. We were lucky and literally got the last parking spot available. Mom and dad used the human restrooms, and when they returned, they put on their packs and off we went.

The trail around the lake starts over by the entrance and is paved for just a little way and then turns to a dirt path. Last time we were here in May, the lake was the lowest we had ever seen it with arms and alcoves completely dry. This time, however, it was full! We could tell it had rained a lot as the trail was still muddy, and the lake was murky. Usually Lynx Lake is crystal clear, but it had tons of debris in it this time.

People were fishing, but no one we passed had caught anything yet. I stopped every chance I could to take a dip in the cool, refreshing lake water. Yeah, baby! The temperatures were much nicer than last time, but I can’t pass up a good lake swim.

  As we neared the half-way point at the dam, we saw a people jam. Folks were turning around as the trail was covered in water. We had seen it with water before and proceeded. Yikes! It wasn’t just a little water covering the trail; it was completely washed out! I wasn’t afraid of some water, so I kept going. Well, me and mom are attached by my leash, so she found herself stepping into ankle-deep, rushing water. Once in, she decided she just better keep moving! Dad followed, and we crossed without a hiccup. Note: Always be careful crossing running water. We are very familiar with this trail and could see the bottom.

My paws dried quickly, but mom and dad’s hiking boots and socks didn’t. “Squish, squish” they went along. Ha! All the grasses were taller than me, and we saw all sorts of wild flowers like it was spring. Mother Nature is doing a confuse! All the rain has the desert thinking it is springtime again.  Even the Blue Herons and turtles were out.

Anyway, just when mom and dad’s socks and hiking boots were beginning to dry off, we got to one of the last inlets. The trail was no where to be seen, and we had to cross it by going through it. We followed some folks ahead of us, and this time, the water was almost up to mom’s knees. No problem for me, but a smaller dog could struggle. We made it and ended up back at the parking lot.

It was even busier and louder. We decided to take our picnic elsewhere. We found a forest road across from the Lynx Lake campground, which was full, and parked. Dad said we were tailgating. I don’t know what that means, but I enjoyed my roast beef. Yum!

We thought we would drive into town while we were there…big mistake! Prescott had three different festivals going on, so the traffic was nuts. We bailed, turned around, and headed home. Since Lynx Lake is only a 1 ½ hour drive home, I was back in my comfy bed napping before I knew it.

I slept soundly that night, and the next morning, mom and dad took me to Tramonto Park for a walk. That night, I got steak and baked potatoes for dinner. I am not spoiled! I’ve heard the word ice cream today, so I am eagerly awaiting some tonight to finish up my celebration. I got a new toy, outside ball, and some jerky treats. What a haul!

I can’t count as high as all the adventures I’ve taken in my 14 years on earth, but I have enjoyed them all from the big to the small. Most importantly, I have loved being with my family. I truly won the puppy lottery! Birthdays should be celebrated, and whenever yours occurs, I hope you have a great one.

My mom, Lorraine Bossé-Smith, is kind enough to help me share my Great Adventures, big and small. My mom is a motivational speaker, corporate trainer, executive recruiter, business consultant, coach, fitness expert, and author of nine published books. More importantly, she’s the best doggy mom ever!

Enjoy my blog at https://www.lorrainebosse-smith.com/category/kuma/kumas-great-adventures/

and be sure to follow me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Kumathedog/ and Instagram: kumaitothedog

Get outside! You never know what you’ll discover, and our paths just might cross. Happy tails!