Bill and the three poodles are all set for a cozy picnic in the mountains.

We all set out on a day hike to work up that appetite. Taylor is Bill’s poodle, Mindy is mine, and Sempi is visiting for the day… lucky her!

Poodles Taylor and Mindy like to explore all the new smells while Sempi looks on.

Everyone stops for a free drink.

The view opens up as we climb higher. We’re following the dry creek bed.

Ah! That fresh mountain air is worth breathing in deeply!

We spend a few minutes on these open slabs...

… Then head back down to start the meal.

It’s a hot day, so Taylor pauses in the water to keep cool.

Mindy picks the softest spot to rest.

Not a bad place to relax...

…and just take in the scenery.

Then Sempi takes over the softest spot to rest on!

Sempi enjoys the simple comforts of a little padding on the ground.

No need to go anywhere when you’re this comfortable!

Meanwhile, Bill has been preparing an amazing Cornish game hen feast in the Dutch oven, his favorite cooking style in the outdoors. It all cooks at once, for about 1 hour, over (and under) charcoal brickets.

Not bad cuisine for an outdoor 4th of July picnic in the mountains!

Master-Chef-of-the-Outdoors Bill displays the fine cuisine he’s prepared. I’m ready for the feast… yummmmm! Nobody goes hungry today!