Several more days spent searching a small area in cold conditions didn’t prove successful in a monetary way. But driving the quiet road as winter closes in showed a healthy wild turkey and deer population. The serenity after a hectic week of moving a lifetime of accumulated debris proved invaluable. At my age resting in the solitude of nature is invigorating.

The lack of snow allowed the fallen needles to maintain a golden glow. And because the creek sheltered a serious level of ice I had taken a pair of logging boots to maximize traction. And my helmet. Shorter daylight hours matched a tired body straining into patches of frozen ground. Fingers chilled quickly and creek water produced a mild brain freeze. In fact I’ll use that as an excuse.

I’d only taken one coil for the Siera Madre detector. All the moving of household goods and belongings caused some grief. There is still room for success before I drive to Los Angeles. And the way my good luck has been developing this week there is always room for optimism. My glass is half full and could continue to fill.