I thought the dogs would accompany me, but they opted to investigate the park-like grounds. Maverick marked every tree to stake out their new territory.

The sky was a rich, ultramarine blue, the crisp autumn air filled with the aroma of pine needles, and the landscape worthy of an Ansel Adams photograph. We moved toward the cedar grove on the left side of the lodge. Beyond the fern-like needles, a log triplex appeared. Angie pointed. “Cookie, Wyatt, and I stay there if you ever need to find someone after hours. The rest of the staff are in the bunkhouse behind the lodge.”

The trail dipped slightly downward, then paralleled a burbling stream. The eight-thousand-foot elevation left us all gasping for breath, even at our leisurely pace.

Farther up the trail we arrived at a small waterfall gushing around mossy granite rocks and forming an amber-and-emerald-colored pool. We paused to admire the scene, and I took a couple of photos. The rest of the guests watched me with envy. Their ability to take photos had vanished with their cell phones. We climbed a short distance. The stream originated from a small lake, with cattails at the far side and a pebble beach on ours. Log benches on the beach formed a semicircle, allowing us to sit and admire the view. To my left was a small shelter that probably served as a blind for photographing wildlife. I could have stayed there all day.

Madam Sparkles and the well-dressed man sat next to me. “We haven’t formally met yet. I’m Stacy, and this is ma husband, Peter. Isn’t this the most beautiful place in the world?”

If you don’t count the numerous earthquakes and potential for a massive volcano eruption . . . I nodded. “I’m Darby and, yes, it’s paradise.”

“Miss Darby,” Peter said. “Pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

Stacy had replaced her diamond studs with the Yogo sapphires. They matched her deep blue eyes.

“Is this your first visit to Mule Shoe?” I asked.

“Yes, but it will definitely not be our last.” Stacy touched her husband’s arm. “Right, my dear?”

Peter nodded.

Angie walked in front of the impromptu classroom. “After I finish the lesson, feel free to spread out and sketch.” I suspected Roy could hear her back at the lodge. “For those of you new to plein air sketching, keep your drawing loose. Capture the essence of the landscape and don’t be bogged down by details. Think about the whole range of values—”

Stacy raised her hand. “I’m so new to this. What do you mean by range of values?”