May 29, 2008, we first laid eyes on Canyon Lake. From that day forward, the lake level dropped daily, reaching record lows last summer. The two year drought ended in September with a huge rain that dropped a beautiful Spanish Oak in our back yard and, obsessed, we monitored rainfall, river flow and lake levels, as the lake came back up, inch by inch. Sometimes it seemed as if it would never be full again. At other times, it rose a foot overnight.
Yesterday was a momentous day. We came full circle and the lake is as we first saw it. And still rising. One more foot to reach full “conservation pool”. Rain is good.
Our time with Judi came and went all too fast. It was wonderful to have her here … what a perfect first guest! The weather’s been cold and rainy but we were graced with a lovely two day respite at just the right time. We took full advantage of the 65 degree day to take out our just-home-from-the-shop pontoon boat. The motor did great until we docked, then died when idle as before. Still, we (Steve) did a much better job getting her loaded onto the trailer than the first go-round, and the boat ride itself was lovely. Well, the dogs might disagree. It was their first time out and they weren’t sold on the whole experience. Ginger and Dottie really liked sitting on Judi’s lap though … they’ve certainly got her number as the world’s biggest softie ever (at least where animals are concerned!)
Judi and I signed up for a docent-guided hike in the Canyon Lake Gorge, carved by floodwaters in 2002 when Canyon Lake over-topped the spillway for six weeks. The flood caused much devastation downstream, with one and a half times the lake’s capacity flowing over the top. In addition to the damage, a new geologic wonder was formed, revealing 100 million plus year old dinosaur prints and providing a fascinating opportunity for research and exploration. Our guide was amazingly knowledgeable and the day was sunny and perfect for the hike.
Judi has gone home, and our weather is back to cold, with chance of snow on Thursday. The lake continues to rise. The level is higher than when we bought the house now and promises to be full before long … just a couple of feet to go now. Over a hundred lettuce seedlings, several dozen baby tomato plants, as well as onion and basil starts are ready to plant out. Spring can start any time … we are ready!
