One of the benefits of living in Tahoe and working from home is that I get to take a hike pretty much whenever I want during the work day. Like most days after setting up a few large downloads, Loki and I went for a walk in the woods behind my house. I sometimes think I am the only person that ventures into these woods, as it is always so peaceful, quiet, and creates a feeling of being hidden away in a secret spot. The forest service came through the past couple of summers and cut down a lot of the over growth so it is nice and open and remnants of old logging roads faintly appear in the nooks and crannies of the hillside. The guys who did the logging were kind enough to create some interesting features that few people have ever laid eyes on, like thrones carved out of tree trunks with chain saws, and half-ass log frames which create snow caves in the winter. My favorite all year around, what I call the "Honeycomb Hideout" is my spot to just chill. It gets great sun, boasts incredible views above the lake, and yes it reminds me of being a kid again. All that, and just 500 ft. away.

Although the Sierras are chocked full of natural flora and fauna, it is always a treat to get to see them in their natural habitat. Today within like 5 minutes we ran across a porcupine, saw a red tail hawk grab a chickeree, and then out of the corner of my eye I spotted a Pine Marten which is a first for me.

It was very inquisitive from the safety of the Jeffrey Pine branches 30ft off the ground, but was obviously much more concerned about Loki than myself. We just sat and watched each other for about 20 minutes while Loki wandered around oblivious of the furry critter above. I actually was not sure what it was at first. It had the face of a raccoon, the body of a weasel and the colorings of a red fox. I knew of Pine Martens and assumed that was what it was, but I honestly had to look it up to be sure. I have heard that weasels have an affinity for shiny objects, so I am going back along the same trail today with some goodies to see if I can coax it to be a little more curious.