I reflect on my life in Nevada, otherwise known as “The Silver State”:

When I first arrived in Nevada, I was greeted by an 8″ snowfall.  Later, I was able to watch the Sagebrush shrubs unfurl their tiny leaves with the arrival of spring.  Over the following months, I observed the green hillsides melt into a pallet of browns as the spring forbs senesced.

Working in Nevada was a pleasure that I did not anticipate…

Yes, there were days when pulling thistles or spraying tall whitetop in 90 degree heat was the last job I wanted to do. But, if I had never come to Nevada, I would never have met my fellow interns, experienced the hurricane force winds of Washoe Valley, or attended quilting gatherings at a nearby town.  Working for the CLM and BLM has broadened my understanding of applied botany, preparing me for exciting days ahead in a new chapter of my life.

As I say goodbye to Nevada one last time, my heart is full of many wonderful memories and life lessons that will follow me in the days ahead.  Blessings to you, Nevada, Carson City team, and beautiful Sierra Nevada Mts. I will miss you!

–B. N.

9/2/10

Carson City (BLM)