Rainbows and Sunsets

One of the wonderful things about Kazakhstan is the beautiful nature!  Although I miss the emerald fields of green from home, there is a stunning beauty that can be found in the rolling hills, snow capped mountains that tower over villages and the simple landscape dotted with shepherds caring for their sheep, goats, cattle and horses.   

My friend Nadezhda and I have been talking about going camping for some time now so when a time came open in our schedules, we jumped at that chance to head to the mountains.  Radick, her husband came with us, mainly for security I think since I don't think the idea of sleeping outside really appealed to him that much (although by the end of the trip he said next time we needed to go for 2 days!).

There is a favorite spot (yes, another one) about 45 min. outside of town.  A 15 min drive on a dirt road winds back through the mountains to an open clearing next to a small stream  ~ a perfect spot to set up camp.  We got everything unloaded and set up just in time for Nadezhda and I to head up the hill to watch the sunset.  At the top we sat on the rocks and reflected on life, friendship and the blessings of our lives.  We marveled at the beauty that was a welcomed feast for our eyes after so many busy weeks of work and just "doing life".  As we talked we felt a light sprinkle on our faces and noticed darker clouds to the east.  We climbed higher to the next ridge to get a better view of the sunset.  As we reached the top we turned back to see where we had been and saw a complete rainbow!  It was definitely a sight to behold and we enjoyed giving thanks for the faithfulness it represents.   

That evening we enjoyed a roaring bonefire and fell asleep to the light of a full moon.  In the morning we climbed up the other side of the mountain to enjoy the sunrise (ok...I am not always an "early riser" so we were a little late for the actual sunrise).   We enjoyed a casual breakfast, broke camp and headed back to Taraz feeling rather rejuvinated from our over night getaway.  Next time we will have to go for an entire weekend!