Three hours of sleep. Up at 2:30 am after hitting the sack after 11PM... the question is when will my speech begin to slur. At that dark lonely hour, the usual morning rituals are dispensed...keep it simple...get up, get dressed, stumble in-out of the bathroom, and grab the truck keys as I head out the door. Shaving, eating, washing up and brushing teeth.....ha..ha. I packed food, water, and camera gear the night before.

Six of us did a variation of the above routine. I never got too close to anyone to see who may have actually showered or gargled. Although I did note that someone shaved...poor fool.

Next is the drive to Suntop Mtn Lookout with its views of Mt Rainier. Park at the gate and hike the last half mile with a flashlight. Then watch the sun come up and snap some pictures.

Here are the rewards.

I showed these in the order they were shot. Compositions in this garden were easy....so many to select. The only caution, which required skill and having your wits about you... take off the lens cap, get the ISO correct, and focus. Actually, my fear was tripping over a tripod and knocking the gear over. You may as well fling yourself over a cliff as shatter your camera and lens on a rock.

Well, this was truly an enjoyable excursion. I inhaled the beauty and fresh air...life is a gift. I thank God for allowing me a chance to see such splendor. I hope you enjoyed this vignette of shots from God's Garden.