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.

The Devil's Kitchen - It's What's For Dinner

The stairways to heaven?  No, the steps to the Devil's Kitchen, located within Colorado National Monument.  In the lower right corner, a splash of red, Indian Paintbrush, gives the impression of what lies ahead. 

The monument, "discovered" by John Otto at the turn of the 20th century, has given over 100 years of screaming scenery to all those who venture through the gates.  Bikers, hikers and photo-adventurers alike flock to this little slice of heaven on earth to capture what is free - Silence. 

Who knew that in the southwest corner of Colorado, The Devil's Kitchen had the aroma of something so enticing. 

LOVING...

A single word.  An abundance of meanings.  What do we love, and why?  Our family, our friends, our lives, our country, our past, present and maybe even our future.  

This word was found upon a headstone at Calvary Cemetery in Fruita, Colorado.  Once an active catholic cemetery until 1955, burials were halted when unmarked graves were discovered.  

On this particular day, May 6, 2013, we were greeted by Sandra and Sherry, caretakers of sorts.  They explained the history of the graveyard, and what they did in "loving" the dearly departed; mowing the lawn, weed control and general repair.  

How we go about our daily lives can be an example of love.  It's all a matter of perspectives.  What are you going to do today?

A Window to the World

Windows on the world?  Perhaps.  What did these old, boarded windows see 100 years ago?  The struggle of the old pioneers, forging out an existence in Routt County.  What perils did the pioneer people encounter?  Heavy snow, blazing sun, gale force Rocky Mountain winds.  They saw it all, yet their determination to build the town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado is evident today.

The window saw it all.  Silently and without fanfare, the window watched, like an owl perched upon a heavy branch, deep in the dark night.  Witness to all, the window saw it all.  Ann McArthur May 8, 2013