I spent most of Saturday, June 6th, at the springs and upstream and I must say it was a particularly wonderful day with few people (no tour bus!!!), wonderful weather and perfect water temperature for swimming. Being early risers and travelers, my brother Danny and long-time DCHS aficionado, Sonja, arrived at the springs before 10:00 AM, After a few dips in the hot pools we hiked upstream to our favorite sheltered beach and pools.

Later, I was walking down stream towards the springs when I met Arizona Mike and USFS Ranger Greg Hoffman. While I was wearing the uniform of the day, my birthday suit, Mike was decked out in very cool khaki and camo which made him look like a very STRAC commando (STRAC is army talk for elite, first line trooper). They were on official business, so after a hug for Mike and a stiff, formal handshake with the public servant (he may not have been used to shaking hands with naked men) they were off to find illegal campers and other violators of the public ordinances.

When I approached the springs I saw Scott and his trusty tree and bolder-fetching dog sitting in the grassy area. Scott was dispensing valuable information to his fans, mostly single men, each one who apparently traveled far distances to the enchanted springs to meet the woman of his dreams. Oops, no luck there. I guess if they want wimmin they'll have to bring their own. Scott was going on about Forest Service topo maps and other good poop, in fact he was so busy with his lecturing that he was just too busy to sell beer, soda, cups, candy or life-saving first aid advice. He didn't get into any fights while I was there, but I was only at the springs for a short time, so maybe while I was basking in the sun upstream, Scott may have popped a few guys in the chops. Who knows?

I met some really nice folks that day, especially two young couples in their twenties from San Diego. Since Mr. Mercer and the Wise Wizard were elsewhere that day and Az Mike was busy with Ranger Hoffman upstream, I introduced them to the DC Volunteers and made sure that they had brochures. Every person I talked to that day was enthusiastic about the Volunteers and wanted to help protect the Deep Creek environment.

After a long wonderful day we walked out just before dusk. I can't wait 'til my next visit.