Who? Us?

Although we are in the throws of winter,  looking through the catalog of previous pictures allows me to find shots that I put aside, for no particular reason.

During one of the many walks my wife and I took on the 35 acres of land we called home during the summer and fall season, some of our constant yet elusive neighbors made an appearance. 

Imagine our surprise, while rounding a corner, to suddenly be sharing the same wooded space, each enjoying a warm day, taking it all in, knowing that old man winter was slowly making his way towards us. 

These youngsters seemed rather brave, in addition to  being curious, which explains why they did not run off.  Rather, they stood for a few moments, allowing me to get a few photographs of them.  Nature seems to set the terms for encounters; although man might think to the contrary.

Regardless - this trio obliged me, and after a few moments, we all continued on our afternoon jaunt.

The Horses Drew Close

Once again, we re-visit the horse.  These two pals were hanging out, perhaps discussing the quality of winter hay or wondering what I was doing, pointing my camera in their direction.

Naturally curious animals,  I can always count on the horses to provide character and depth for my photos.  This particular shot drew my interest as to the contrast: One close, one set back.  Neither seems very interested in the reasoning for the keen interest in equine passions - most likely they are hoping I have apples, carrots or a bag of oats hidden in my backpack.


...“The road may bend out of sight at times, but I know what lies ahead: the faraway horses.” ...
Buck Brannaman, Author and Professional Horse Whisperer

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 Call of the Wild

Canine or wolf?  Maybe even a rascal coyote?  I came upon this imperious pillar during my travels in Routt County, Colorado.  Was the artist of this piece trying to convey some sort of honor to all things DOG, or maybe even honoring the "call of the wild"?  I'd like to believe that inside all of us vagabond travelers lies a small cache of adventure that beckons us to howl at the moon from time to time - Even more enticing, to follow our soul beyond our comfort zone and relinquish to the mighty call of the wild!

"My spirit surges forward, running through wet grass.  Suddenly the call of the wild beckons me to stop.  Heavy breathing, lungs expanding, whirlwind of scent through my nostrils - the aura of the forest entices me.  I am free."  ann mcarthur 

Whistle Me Dixie

One of the more entertaining creatures in this region is the "Whistle Pig".  While this little fellow does indeed whistle, he no where near resembles a pig.  Their main task is to drive our dogs crazy; whistling away, while the dogs desperately try to find them.  The Whistle Pig is a clever little rodent, dodging in and out of its' rock hideouts.  I suspect the creatures sit back, in whistle pig groups, and instead of Saturday Night Live, it's Watch the Dog Run In Circles.

Hop, Skip & A Jump, Ker-plunk!

Long gone are these stepping stones, now covered by heavy winter snows.  Once again, black & white can enhance a photograph, where color might skew depth and drama.  Taken just a few months ago, Old Man Winter has since arrived in Steamboat, and Mad Creek is hidden under several feet of white stuff.  Once spring run off begins, these rocks will create underwater moguls for a powerful, cascading river.  By summer, the rocks will once again become visible, and make for excellent stepping stones to cross the creek, or to sit upon and gaze at the trout.