Fishing the Elk River - Ann Style

Ann does most of the writing for this blog, just as she is doing at this moment.  We've worked out a keen deal where John captures the images, and Ann weaves the words to tell a story about the photograph.  So, today, Ann, in her third person present, will tell you about the purpose of the fish hat.  Our summer was peaceful and we lived on 35 acres of solitude, along the Elk River.  Ann, never a fisherman, believed that the purchase of a hat, with a fish on the front, would somehow conjure up the mighty fish spirits.  Sadly, she was way off base.  Okay, here I am, hat off...the secret is that I (Ann) do not care for fishing.  I understand why people are enthralled with the sport though.  It's a simple way to become hypnotized with nature, escape the craziness of the world and hope for the tug at the end of the line, and a large trout to burst from the river.  I could never get the gist of casting the line.  I hooked everything but a fish.  So, the hat, while emblazoned with a trout, will suffice as a great outdoor hat, to keep the sun off my head, shade my eyes from bright lights and just for today, make for a good story.

The Long List of "L"s for Labradors

Labrador Retrievers are a unique breed.  A silken coat is perfectly designed to allow this water dog protection from the frequent and delightful immersion in any body of water they encounter.  Soulful eyes gaze up at their masters with an " I love you so much" .  Bodhi is one of our dog companions that visits us from time to time.  With each visit he brings oodles of love, entertainment, flatulence and immense intrigue into his psyche, with us constantly attempting to analyze and diagnose .  Bodhi actually seeks out small rocks in river bottoms, and brings them to the surface; lining them up as if to display his engineering and architectural abilities.  Bodhi simply exudes all that the breed boasts.  Love, laughter, loyalty of lazy days lounging  in the  long summer sun.  Hugs are always welcome.

...love the dog.  love a dog who shows no interest in vanity, but rather seeks out and discovers the simple joy of a trickling mountain stream.  love the dog who rolls in "perfume" that sends us running for the shampoo and a pail of water.  love the dog who can take a nap whenever the mood strikes him.  love the dog who has action packed doggie dreams.  love the dog who has no problem seeking out the positive attributes in every living creature.  simply put...I love the dog...

Ann McArthur, November 7, 2013

A Bird in the Hand...What is it Worth?

Often times, nature comes calling with boom.  A small bird mistook a glass door as more vistas, and my wife found this little bird on the cement, stunned.  An animal lover, Ann scooped up this delicate winged visitor, and held it until it regained it's senses. The animal world is so vast and complex, yet, often times, "only the strong survive" needs a little help.  A glass door created a momentary obstacle, and Ann, attuned to the animal world, had a moment of bliss, delicately cradled in her hands. 

Not to hurt our humble brethren (the animals)
Is our first duty to them, but to stop there is not enough.
We have a higher mission:
To be of service to them whenever they require it...  St. Francis of Assisi 

This Ain't No Virgin

While all around the Rocky Mountains, the change of season has the colors in full bursts, a recent trip to Nevada had us stopping in the Virgin River Gorge on the border of Utah and the tip of Arizona, along I 15.  A mild, even balmy 75 degrees gave bursts to the beautiful cactus that call this area of desert home.  While some may be zipping through the Gorge on their way to the city of  lights & casinos, we could have easily spent our entire weekend exploring the continuous beauty of the desert and slow moving Virgin River as it carves its way through the canyon.

Who Is That Dog In My Yard?

Dogs are great companions, although often times they need a few moments to "adjust" their personalities to "who is that dog in my yard" !  A few weeks ago, I took our dog Casey, on the right and our dog-friend companion Bodhi, the black lab for a run in the freshly fallen snow.  As you can seen in the picture, there is a yellow dog in the left of the picture who had wandered into Casey and Bodhi's territory.  After a few thunderous gallops, and some back hair rising (to make one look BIG), the yellow dog got the picture that he had wandered in to already pee'd upon land.  Some sniffs, and a stand off ensued; eventually all creatures decided to a United Nation treatise and discovered there was enough room for everyone to play.

Vulture, Vulture

With an impressive wing span of 72 inches, turkey vultures are a neighbor in our neck of the woods.  The species spends only summers with us, and then heads south during the colder months.  You will find them year round in parts of Mexico, Central America and all of South America.  Sounds like a smart bird to me, as outside the weather is more conducive to snowman building.  This picture was taken over the summer, and I found him perched upon the branch of a cottonwood in our backyard.  Thankfully, this bird is more interested in rotting flesh, thereby giving our trio of furry creatures a break from being hunted.

Both Sides Now

As long as a summer nap is, the season changed.  It's fall, or so the weathermen say, but we awoke this morning to a dusting of snow; a reminder that summer is over, fall really never took hold and that old man winter is knocking at our door.  At the end of our driveway, sits this wonderful old wagon, which our neighbors decorate for holidays.  Today it serves as a model for the photograph.  A passing summer thunderstorm along with a sunset created the wonderful colors for the clouds ebbing and flowing along the valley floor.  Clouds are also part of the scene and always create a unique photograph.
...Photo taken in July, 2013...

"I've looked at clouds from both sides now
From up and down and still somehow
It's cloud's illusions I recall
I really don't know clouds at all  ..." Channand & Paul Young
Both Sides Now - Judy Collins
 

A reason for the season...

It's that time of year.  Seasons blend into one another, overlapping at times.  Such is the juxtaposition in this photo.  Early winter snows have blanketed the ground, and a solitary golden Aspen leaf has found a resting spot.  The contrast is glorious. We never tire of photographing and writing about the beauty of nature.  The scenery is always new, always exciting and the words seem to flow effortlessly from our minds to the keyboard. 
keyboard.

"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;  Ecclesiastes 3:1-22 "     

A Virgin River Runs Through It.

 

 

 

 

A recent trip found us in Zion National Park the day before the Government Shut Down.  We walked along the Riverside Trail which dead ends into the south entrance of the Narrows.  The Virgin River has carved the canyons, and molded the park.  The river definitely runs through it.  Cool breezes dance from the river and echoes from ghosts past can be heard if you listen.  Any trail within Zion can bring out the adventurer spirit within us.  Red cliffs soar upwards, and at times the explorer is left with a sense of the power of the river, the cathedrals of red rock and the canopy of blue skies above.

"Eventually,
all things merge into one...
and a river runs through it.
The river was cut
by the world's great flood...
and runs over rocks
from the basement of time.
On some of the rocks
are timeless raindrops.
Under the rocks are the words..
and some of the words are theirs.

I am haunted by waters..." Norman Mclane, A River Runs Through It

First Winter Snow

Once green with summer's sun, the Aspen leaves change with the colder temperatures.  To look at the Rocky Mountains' scape, patterns of vivid gold resonate and illuminate the mountainside and bring a dash of brilliance to the greenery.  With little warning, the hint of winter's first snows arrive, and add white to the golds, greens, reds, orange, thus creating a color wheel beyond anything man could create.  Nature is alive!

The Love Affair of Metal and Amber Waves of Grain

I love when John captures this style of photograph.  I'm one for the rugged, yet conflicted beauty in barbed wire and amber waves of grain.  Both items captured in this photo, while standing on their own can be easily depicted as strong; even delicate. But, when found together, the subjects become strong in their passion to also become displays of  simple beauty.  It's almost as if a passionate love affair has been interrupted.

When Fall Steps In

Fall.  The changing of the seasons is spectacular and awe-inspiring in the Rocky Mountains.  The scrub oak leaves, once green with the spring season, begin their slow evolution to dynamic spicy reds, sweet orange and brilliant yellows.  Soon the Aspens and Cottonwoods will follow suit, and the mountains will look like a grandmother's quilt; a family blanket of mother nature and her children.

The Surge of Lightning

 

Electricity. No need for the black and white experience with this photograph. Mother Nature provides her own illumination with a one-two punch of energized threads . A recent storm that swept across the mystical Yampa Valley brought claps of thunder and lightning. The magical show could be seen for miles , and to the naked eye, the flashes were abundant. However, capturing these marvels of nature often times prove difficult in that you just can't count on lightning striking twice in the exact same spot.

A Smile and the Doorman

 

The Broadmoor Hotel, in Colorado Springs, CO is a step back to a long forgotten gracious elegance.  Nestled in the majestic shadow of Cheyenne Mountain, this 3,000 acre hotel is a depiction of old western elegance, with a dabble in modern amenities and Italian themed architecture.  We walked the grounds this past July, and were mesmerized by the well manicured lawns, the sensational and abundant displays of mother nature, the shops and art displayed throughout the interior of the hotel.  We came upon this young doorman who obliged us a photograph.  He greeted each patron with a infectious smile and warm hello.  Of all the employees we encountered during our trip to the Broadmoor, this doorman, in our opinion ,was what fine hospitality is all about.  Thank you for your service, Sir.

Shakespeare's Hamlet Butterfly

Metamorphosis.  One of the scientific wonders of the world.  What once was a caterpillar, becomes a butterfly.  Although Shakespeare spoke of "shuffling off the mortal coil", I don't believe that this butterfly considers his pupa stage as mortal.  It's just another wonderment of Mother Nature and transformation.   This little winged creature fluttered onto our awning, rested a moment and was off again; searching nature for his next stop on a warm summer day.

Calypso in the Pale

During a recent weekend adventure, we drove up the Greenville Mine Road in search of sites unseen.  A local rancher was running livestock and we found ourselves in the midst of Calypso.  Perhaps this mare thought she was hidden, but her beauty shines brightly.  Rural Routt County still garners a treasure trove of the old west cowboy pioneer life, as is evident by the well worn cabin behind the mare.  The story beckons you to look just beyond the pale, and an open door to imagination, sites unseen, roughneck cowboys, ghost stories of gold mining and perhaps Calypso.


...Of these things, speak, Immortal One,
And tell the tale once more in our time....  Homer's Odyssey

Wisps of Wonderland

 

Whimsical wisps of fog unfurl like a veil on the ranch floor. If you look closely, a cloistered white roof top of a rancher's barn can be detected; but ever so slight.  The freshly cut hay brings depth to the photo and resonates a simple way of ranch life; when the chores are completed and free time is but a brush stroke from God across a freshly cut field.

Into the Fold

Wild roses are in abundance during the lazy dog days of August.  Mother Nature's final gift to the lover of aromatic petals; the wild rose bursts on the scene.  Passionate pink blooms decorate the garden.  Eventually colder nights will send these brilliant buds to repose, but until then, my wife and I enjoy the gift of utopia in the garden.

"... My wild Irish Rose, the sweetest flower that grows.  You may search everywhere, but none can compare with my wild Irish Rose.   My wild Irish Rose, the dearest flower that grows,  And some day for my sake, she may let me take the bloom from my wild Irish Rose..."  Chauncey Olcott

A son and his father

Not our usual blog today, but a toss back to 25 years ago, at least!  Some of you reading the blog today will recognize the faces in this somewhat faded photograph.  My brother in law Paul and my father in law Peter posing for a photo.  Fathers and sons share a special bond, as do fathers and daughters.  Peter was a man of gentle nature, captivating story telling; a true Irish trait, and a love for his children and wife that knew no bounds.  He touched many lives during his lifetime, mine included.  My father in law was truly unique, and I greatly admired his sharp wit, endless patience and ability to touch a stranger's life; exuding the complete essence of a Christian.  Peter left this world far too young, but I remember him with love and the times we were able to spend together.

 

Controversy - A photographer's Opinion

One of the controversies of becoming a photographer is realizing that a single photo can speak volumes,  raise questions and stir discussion/debate.  Upon a recent adventure to Wyoming, we arrived in Casper to discover this silent, yet stirring display relating to abortion, which was on the private property of the local catholic church.  The message was concise and to the point.  Whatever your opinion towards this delicate topic, the responsibility of the photographer is to step outside his/her own opinion, and capture the passion of the subject.  Whether pro-life or pro-abortion, the camera lens sees only the reflection of events at hand.  While my wife and I were emotionally moved by this gracious and powerful scene; we were pleased by the sight for freedom of speech and how it is respected in a small cowboy town.  The question begs for an answer - How long would this silent protest last in your town before someone marred the message?

The Beauty of the Ocean

Home.  Pacific Coast Highway, at the south end of Pt. Magu, on a day that makes southern California the utopia it is. A breathtaking late summer day, looking out on the ocean, and I am rejuvenated.  My spirit renewed.  The sound as the ocean waves pound the shoreline is like a lullaby, serenading me to sleep.  Gentle winds rush down from the nearby Santa Monica mountains, and warm the sand like a blanket.  The salty air is easy on the lungs, and gifts from the sun gods warm my weary body.  Life is good.


...nature's fury, rolls upon the sand in perfect harmony.  the white moon pulls at the tide, in and out, like clockwork. sand between my toes, warmth through my hair, sea salt on my lips. love songs from the water's embrace.

Ann McArthur 8/17/13

The American Pony - Mustang

Ah, the passion of FORD.  American born, bred, built and bought, the Ford Mustang has stood the tick - tock of time.  The true Mustang; whether made of steel and sweet sweat or that of a sleek, muscular body, coursing through a field of tall grass, this symbol depicts all emotion American -  its stubborn strength and true grit.  Black and white captures the soul of this particular mustang.  However, if truth be told, nothing or no one will truly come to harness the power of the pony on this grill, FORD Motor Company or the trickle of a hard day's work from man and beast alike.  American born and bred.  The American red, white and blue dream of pride!

A horse for your thoughts?

Horses are always an interesting topic to shoot and study.  Each possess its' own unique and captivating personality.  Aloof, standoffish, shy or the opposite - friendly, curious and inquisitive.  These two geldings, our neighbors, greet us on our nightly strolls.  While photographing natures' abundant beauty, I am enthralled with the strong, steadfast beauty of the equine actors and their play of the animal kingdom.

Ventura Highway in sunshine?

Some might ask - why move to the country and live in a RV?  Witness one of the multitude of spectacular sunsets or sunrises to get the answer.  An evening stroll can settle the mind after a long, weary day.  A brief glimpse at a sunrise can energize the soul, and give strength for the day ahead.  My wife and I walk these paths with our dogs and cat at night.  We listen to the river run past, the wind rustle through the trees and soak in the simplicity of life's abundant glory. 

"Go confidently in the direction  of your dreams.  Live the life you have imagined." 
Henry David Thoreau

The Dance of Cowboys Past

A recent trip provided an opportunity to capture the great, wide Wyoming in all its stark beauty.  Black and white depicts the depth, rage and power of the storm clouds as they hover upon the barren mesas.  Nature's epic majesty gives birth with the simplicity of black and white.  Where once Indians, deer, buffalo and cowboy heroes danced across these barren plains, bringing life and fireside stories - now extinct western dreams take shape with the echoes of all things past.  Look closely, as the storm clouds reflect the passionate tales of the old west.  The dance begins again.

Hay and the Maze

Summer in Routt County, Colorado means hay.  Neatly wound bales of hay, creating somewhat of a maze throughout a freshly cut field.  In the background, the mighty Hahn's Peak.  This shot was captured on Hwy. 129, heading north towards the tall trees, dirt roads and eventually, the Wyoming border. 

The Road of 25+ cattle guards

A recent road trip discovered a path less taken.  Wyoming.  Banishing thoughts of  interstates and major thoroughfares, we found ourselves on a small county road that ran the length of Seminoe Reservoir, to the small town on Alcova.  Then heading east to the City of Casper, we spent the night before heading south towards Douglas, WY, voted one of the top 100 small towns in America.  Adventure abounds.

Resolute in Solitude

Lonely.  With a glance at this picture, some might  think "alone".  A solitary tree, resolute in its conviction to have survived the winter storm.  Why not resolute in strength, instead?   Often times, a picture gives dual meanings or interpretations.  Such could be the case with this photograph taken during the winter of 2011.  Black & white tends to leave the photo with much more power. 



..all in all, solitude means survivor.  outcast, I think not.  Powerful stance of  Mother Nature...alone, cradled in arms of comfort.  - Ann McArthur 7/12/13

Ride the American Dream

True grit west!  Hard work and honesty are the well worn principles that founded the wild west.  While America is floundering under the suffocating oppression of the white clueless collars in Washington, D.C., the American Cowboy toils away, paving a large swatch of dirt and dust for the American dream.  Freedom and a leather saddle, the rank, but sweet smell of sweat.  Manure piled along the way is evidence of the road and the journey.  Ride on American Cowboy and the  wilds of the West.

" ...my boots are worn.  shitkickers, covered in a bull's steaming pile stench,  like a badge of courage, tried, true and stiff with conviction.  I am the American Cowboy, and like my brethren before me,  I ride my trusted horse through the rough grass, protecting the dream of the wild west."

- Ann McArthur 7/11/13

Red Fox Feet

 
 

Don't worry!  The white stuff has not begun to fall yet.  Summer is regaling us with warmth and immense sunshine.  This photograph, taken earlier this year - a snow covered out building.  The solitary footprints appeared to be from a fox; most likely seeking respite from a cold winter's night.  Fresh snow allows us to spy on the wilds of the animal kingdom - their tracks are evidence of their secretive night time frivolities.



...clever and cunning, the red fox dances effortlessly across the fields in search of adventure.  a ballet of sorts, every breath alive with imagination.   ann mcarthur 7/10/13

Shadows of Steel

Take a look at this.  Can you guess as to what it is?  Often times, people adorn their property with markers - some "peace" of art that sets them apart from everyday residents.  Along the rambling county road that is a prelude to our camping spot, this well weathered metal animal greets us daily.  Have you discovered what this is?  The Elk, and the shadows are the antlers echoing across the steel body. 

...And Life Goes On...

Life.  Mother Earth controls it.  GOD oversees the process.  Our friendly neighborhood doe left us this weekend.  Victim to an accident,  she now gives back to the earth.  Her once agile and sleek body will provide food for other creatures.  We were blessed to experience her friendly and gentle grace for a few weeks.  Life is a mystery,  and when we appreciate the little gifts in nature, our life's experiences become more fulfilling.


...the doe danced effortlessly through the tall grass meadow, and I was blessed by her temporary presence.  all things must cease the cycle of living.  what we give back is the gift.  ...ann mcarthur 7/8/13 

Leather & Lace

Often times, Mother Nature reminds us that she truly  is the grand designer of all that is beauty. Forget Versace, Halston, Prada.  Amateurs! 

Graceful, yet rugged, delicate small white wild flowers become intertwined in cold, hard steel...almost as if performing some intricate lovelorn ballet movement.  For how can a pitch fork and lily white flowers within Mother Nature's kaleidoscope co-exist?

But, as with the age old beliefs of opposites attract, yin and yang, this heart of steel has become betwixt and between by the arousal of Mother Nature's passionate white flowers.

Leather & Lace  ...click on link for music

Busy as a Beaver

Has anyone watched a beaver while they work?  Our recent "digs" include a pond and 2 resident beavers.  Two large, well constructed damns are constantly experiencing upgrades.  My wife has nicknamed them  -  Burt and Ernie.  We suspect they are father and son as one of the furry creatures seems smaller and more eager to mimic the larger.  These 2 beavers can rest easy as we mean them no harm and thank them for the willingness to be part of the camera's view.

In Love with Lupines

One of the many marvels of the Rocky Mtns. are the high country meadows, full of wildflowers that burst with brilliant blooms once the winter snows melt. 

Lupines, in particular the purple buds, are abundant just outside our front door.  These flowers sprout every year, come in varieties of colors and bees and hummingbirds love them.

It makes for a very pleasant summer; like a sonnet carried on a warm summer breeze, that comes to you while you're daydreaming the day away.

Wheel in the Sky

Ferris wheels.  Thought to have been "invented" in the 17th century, the Ferris wheel has brought pleasure to children and adults for hundreds of years.  The multitude of colors are an instant attraction to most people.  The circus came to town a few weeks ago.  I found this to be a perfect opportunity to capture the magic of neon lights and colors.

Staining the Glass

Stained glass.  A quick review of history traces the form of art back to the ancient Egyptians and Romans, with its height during the medieval times. 

Stained glass can easily be found adorning places of worship, household windows and even a Tiffany lamp or two.

This particular glass adorns the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Denver, CO.  It depicts Jesus and his apostles in a boat on rough seas. This is a representation of doubt; found in James, as well as the Gospels. 

Flags Unfurled

Flags appear to us in many ways.  Folded 13 times, and handed to loved ones at military honor funerals, or flying high above government buildings and even more spectacular is the flag waving in all her glory in an every day American front yard or Independence Day parade.  

These particular flags were whipping on a very crisp winter's day in Denver, Colorado.  My wife and I had ventured into a battle of sorts; one side of the street, the Occupy Movement, and on the other, the equally boisterous Tea Partiers.  

The brilliance of the golden topped capital dome adds nice contrast to the old red, white and blue.  Long may she wave.


Ever wonder about the significance of the 13 folds?

 

THE AMERICAN FLAG

Did you know that at military funerals, the 21 gun salute stands for the sum of the numbers in the year 1776.

Have you ever noticed how the honor guard pays meticulous attention to correctly folding the American flag 13 times? You probably thought it was to symbolize the original 13 colonies, but we learn something new every day!

The 1st fold of our flag is a symbol of life.

The 2nd fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.

The 3rd fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veterans departing our ranks who gave a portion of their lives for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.

The 4th fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in time of war for His divine guidance.

The 5th fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decaur, "Our Country", in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong.

The 6th fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that We pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.

The 7th fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic.

The 8th fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day.

The 9th fold is a tribute to womanhood, and Mothers. For it has been through their faith, their love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great has been molded.

The 10th fold is a tribute to the father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for defense of our country since they were first born.

The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies in the Hebrews eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in the Christians eyes, God the Father, the Son, and Holy Spirit.

The 13th fold, or when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost reminding us of our nations motto, "In God We Trust."

Mirror, Mirror

Reflections.  You can harness a glimpse through numerous items.  Mirrors, aluminum, steel; all man made products can offer a view.  However, Mother Nature proves the most pristine reflection is found in a still body of water.  This view offers an inversion of the grey-ish, white clouds and blue sky above.  Stems of pond grass poke their heads upwards to capture the warmth of the sun's passionate kiss.


Mirror, mirror what do you see?  A reflection of life, looking back at me.  Nature's glory is the image I'd most like see.  Blissfully gazing into a still mountain pond, clouds above me waft on by.  A perfect reflection of a brilliant blue sky.  Ann McArthur 6/13/2013

The Squirrel Feast

Nut collecting is serious business for this squirrel.  High above his buffet table, this fellow can run down the trunk and search the ground for nuts and other tasty treats.  On this particular day, this stealth sentry alerted other squirrels of my presence.  






Little twitchy tail, eyes alert to any danger, I hunt the trees and forest floors for the nut.  One little nut at a time, I hoard these treasures for the fall and winter weather, when I will sleep soundly, away from the winter snows.  Twitchy tail, body all a quiver - I am alert.        Ann McArthur 6/12/13

Summer rains and the Moose

The moose got its name from a Native American word “moosu”, which comes from the Narragansett language meaning “he who trims or cuts smoothly.”   The American Moose is an elusive creature most times; however on this particular day, as we were traveling back from Wellington, CO. we came upon a cow moose grazing the grass.  We were on Cameron Pass, that follows the Poudre River.  Although it is recommended not to approach cow moose, especially if they have a calf with them, we saw no evidence of offspring, and so with a zoom lens we were able to capture this beautiful creature enjoying her lunch.  Summer rains had left its cloud bursts on the lush grass.  Shortly after this photograph was caught, the cow wandered into the trees, and off to more private dining.  What a rich day it was.

                         ******************************************************************

Summer Rain
BY Gerald Fisher 8/15/97 Father Sky is gray
As the new light appears
And the laughter of the birds is still
the clouds shed their tears
and the land drinks of this heavenly dew
puddles replace the dust
irresistible temptations for little feet
Turning my face to the sky
and feeling the gentleness of the mist
washing away my cares
filling my heart with happiness
Lifting my spirits
like the quenching of the crops
Raising my arms
I turn to the four winds
and give thanks for this
gentle…Summer Rain.

 

The Heart of a Labrador

Bodhi.  We have written about this old fella before.  While not our canine, we spend a fair amount of time with Bodhi, babysitting while his owner's are out of town.

This blog is dedicated to a friend, Mike, who recently lost his own yellow lab, Magnum.  Labrador lovers know the magic of these mighty dogs.  The love of these dogs draws the best out of the human companions.  

Such is the way of Bodhi, the mighty viking as I refer to him.  He has an enormous amount of love which he slathers and slobbers upon every person he meets.

If only every person in the world could spend 10 minutes with a Labrador, just think what could be accomplished.


 Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together...

The Dance with a Daffodil

Sometimes life is just this simple.  The Botanical Gardens in Steamboat Springs, CO offer the lover of life a simple walk along a path.  Nature's beauty abounds the senses.  A daffodil with vibrant yellows and a splash of orange is filled with sweet nectar, awaiting a visit from a bee or hummingbird.  Why can't it all be as simple as a delicate flower.

...For oft, when on my couch I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,
They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;
And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the daffodils.

William Wordsworth

Freedom Is Not FREE

Epic.  Today, on Memorial Day, we remember those who have fought bravely, sacrificed and even still, gave the ultimate, their lives.  As I look at this large, and strong slate of rock, I am reminded of our Armed Forces.  Strong and true, never faltering from their duty. 

Freedom isn't FREE!

To Be a Tulip or Not to Be A Tulip - That is the Question!

Tulips.  They come in a variety of colors, and are almost indicative of impending spring in the Rocky Mountains.  This vibrant cache was discovered at a friend's home, which we look after.  To an educated Tulip admirer, one should not be surprised to learn there are a species of  "Shakespearean Tulips".  Given William Shakespeare's affinity for the English language, I suspect the perfection and soliloquy of a green stalked, red  & yellow headed tulip would be anything but perfect.

A Diamond in the Rough

Trying out a new lens proved fruitful.  A close up shot of this budding pine allowed me to capture the tiny droplets of water that hid between the needles.  A simple drop of water doubles as a diamond.  In my opinion, I'd rather have the droplet of water then the real diamond. 




One at first, alone on a perch.  Slowly, effortlessly, the little droplets appear, to join their dozen or so other crystallized H2O.  Cold air whooshes around them, until suddenly they are frozen in time.   Ann McArthur May 22, 2013

Magic MoonDances

Can the moon cause havoc?  Some werewolves might say yes!  An amorous vampire might want to take a pint or two from your jugular to prove their point.  Either way, the moon, and all it's mystery, can drive man and beast to howl and act crazy.  Mother Nature can move man to perform like fools.



Well, it's a marvelous night for a moondance
With the stars up above in your eyes
A fantabulous night to make romance
Neath the cover of October skies
And all the leaves on the trees are falling
To the sound of the breezes that blow
And I'm trying to please to the calling
Of your heart-strings that play soft and low
And all the nights magic seems to whisper and hush
And all the soft moonlight seems to shine in your blush...VAN MORRISON

Daisy Love

One of the most fascinating creatures we can capture on film is our pet.  Aloof or cooperative-they can be either.  On this particular sunshine day, Casey obliged me with a few quick shots.  We took this shot on Rabbit Ears Pass, on Hwy 40, which runs west/east through the state of Colorado.  A mecca for hikers, adventurer seekers, campers and in the winter, a snowmobilers' paradise.  I was pleased for the momentary shot given me by my dog, and enjoyed the rest of my Rocky Mtn. Day.