tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22450607826591214232024-03-14T01:16:57.686-06:00Impression EvergreenAn Artist's Spiritual Quest for Truth and Beauty.Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.comBlogger525125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-73775828898435575292023-12-31T16:17:00.000-07:002023-12-31T16:17:22.597-07:00An Approaching Storm - Colored Pencil Drawing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaqCHwvnniKsO-nkNeqSqs9VMGrmi5ySEbsuLCff343Wk1bH5xaAb5Nizr_GZbyYUinIOUHxPH6WQELgvRdsMtwByPxZK6SDFQ5MnEoG5tErwL0R9ZUJ8qJCXZOhlhQr-YiDZTmzcmYrQT73oEo9deqibHDOdfC6SVJKV3opV_zfgAv8QHk5vRL7j1Lag/s1600/Approaching%20Storm.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="989" data-original-width="1600" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaqCHwvnniKsO-nkNeqSqs9VMGrmi5ySEbsuLCff343Wk1bH5xaAb5Nizr_GZbyYUinIOUHxPH6WQELgvRdsMtwByPxZK6SDFQ5MnEoG5tErwL0R9ZUJ8qJCXZOhlhQr-YiDZTmzcmYrQT73oEo9deqibHDOdfC6SVJKV3opV_zfgAv8QHk5vRL7j1Lag/w640-h396/Approaching%20Storm.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"An Approaching Storm" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">In the midst of an already grievous winter, an approaching storm gradually extinguishes the landscape’s last sliver of light. The inclement weather rushes in aggressively as it envelopes the magnificent range of rugged peaks.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Extending across the page, a strip of turquoise sky is still visible above the embattled scenery. It won’t be long, though, before a cloak of cool-gray smothers the valley in a shroud of deep snow.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The high mountains assume a defiant posture as their sharp edges tear through the soft atmosphere, creating patches of bare rock. The kaleidoscope of broken terrain sparkles in blue-violet before the impending storm’s onset.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The forested foothills are distinguished by three different, overlapping tiers of conifers. As the woodland ramparts recede into the distance, the wintery colors gradually become several shades bluer.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The wide, white meadow sweeps across the foreground, its smooth surface decorated with elongated shadows. The same purple found in the snowy summits is carried down below into the very bottom of the composition.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The naturalistic drawing features muted colors laid down with a heavy hand in order to express the austere beauty displayed before a big storm. Even during the worst weather, the hidden blue sky is still there, waiting to be revealed.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">If you can summon the strength to allow for patience, faith and fortitude, light eventually overcomes the darkness. Once the clouds disperse, the sun’s comforting rays warm the earth and that lost, blue sky is finally found.</p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-45904833636857558262023-09-26T20:32:00.000-06:002023-09-26T20:32:17.643-06:00Touch the Clouds - Colored Pencil Drawing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQLb0YRXrYMAninUWux1CL7bCOMbWpyuRQLVvBnvs3j3WenQeQlMciHU338yPrt07CBMEcgqz8lPMQUFhdXoy9yIG_lhUlyGJpWWMvFMm2tiMejBIS2e1UFoluqlzyVbqrsivwvrphEIUje0IworaKKs0KUKGy5JWWNn2qaCxYtImh05zMbvheUPNxgZc/s1600/Touch%20the%20Clouds.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1271" data-original-width="1600" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQLb0YRXrYMAninUWux1CL7bCOMbWpyuRQLVvBnvs3j3WenQeQlMciHU338yPrt07CBMEcgqz8lPMQUFhdXoy9yIG_lhUlyGJpWWMvFMm2tiMejBIS2e1UFoluqlzyVbqrsivwvrphEIUje0IworaKKs0KUKGy5JWWNn2qaCxYtImh05zMbvheUPNxgZc/w640-h508/Touch%20the%20Clouds.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Touch the Clouds" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">An arching vault of powder-blue sky is reflected below on the surface of Evergreen Lake. The behemoth mountain known as Bergen Peak towers above, straining with all its might to touch the clouds.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The pyramidal-shaped summit pierces the atmosphere but the ambitious endeavor falls far short of the billowy cluster of vapor. Magically linking heaven and earth, the wispy cloud floats overhead as its transient contour traces the shape of the mountain ridge.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The solemn landscape delivers a spiritual message basking in the supernatural glow of divine light. The elements are conjured with mysterious edges that are softened by the vibrations generated from a kaleidoscope of stippled colors.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The lower foothills are arranged in a simple pattern described by descending layers of woven color that cascade down to the water’s edge. Glittering white waves are represented by milky tones that are scrubbed softly across the reservoir’s textured surface.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Superseded by a tall, dark pine, a swath of dense underbrush creates a curving overlook that anchors the lower left corner of the page. Directly opposite, the suggestion of more wilderness is blurred into the foreground, balancing the composition.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">A late monsoon has transformed the summer into an unusually wet season. Persistent thunderstorms settle into the area every afternoon relieving the drought-stricken corridor, creating a fertile valley of green and blue.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The cool hues contradict the comfortably warm evenings experienced during this time of year. Although at night when it’s completely quiet, a faint whisper comes sweeping down from the big peaks betraying the cold winter that is preparing to arrive soon.</p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-75805882896452919652023-08-14T18:09:00.000-06:002023-08-14T18:09:37.558-06:00Dark Self-Portrait - Colored Pencil<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0zocpcbmYUkY1sWtot67WS8IMvu9RMiHD9ET39eszieSY_WD8s4Y6iMcDGLGqluaC6xi-hy3-afTbUM5QnBFNUki_Z_W5Sr0tn4WmDKX10JCJ1EIkStoMBNliQRi45_LvlfpYiP6qtJEiBJD_fEB8ILivGoEjWDA6ZdPdntIoIPXuYkFt2qN3B4Cf_k/s1600/Dark%20Self-Portriat.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1293" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx0zocpcbmYUkY1sWtot67WS8IMvu9RMiHD9ET39eszieSY_WD8s4Y6iMcDGLGqluaC6xi-hy3-afTbUM5QnBFNUki_Z_W5Sr0tn4WmDKX10JCJ1EIkStoMBNliQRi45_LvlfpYiP6qtJEiBJD_fEB8ILivGoEjWDA6ZdPdntIoIPXuYkFt2qN3B4Cf_k/w518-h640/Dark%20Self-Portriat.jpeg" width="518" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Dark Self-Portrait" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Composed in a somber shadow of murkiness, the resulting work is a dark self-portrait. A sliver of illumination creates a streak of highlights that defines the firm structure of an antique face.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The side sunk in deep shadow is described by a limited palette of gold, orange and dark brown. Soft shading is employed to graduate from one tone to another evoking an aura of still calm.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The understated mood and stingy color scheme is inspired by the work of the masters of old. Another experiment in line, form, color and chiaroscuro and less a study in the psychology of the sitter.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Thin, wavy hair tops a high forehead that has been wrinkled by time. Searching intensely for the essential features, black eyes are set into deep sockets below a sharp brow ridge.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">A broad nose casts the darkest shadow that blends seamlessly into the ochre cheek. The stern mouth is delineated by reddish lips that dissolve into a prominent jowl.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The pinkish ear is more translucent and anchors the hefty jawline that curves down into a notched chin. The weight of the skull is supported by bulbous neck muscles that converge just above the shirt collar.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Steeped in realism, this picture is still conceived with elements of intentional exaggeration. Not just a portrait, it’s an experiment in light and shade, modeling form and composing analogous colors.</p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-90268409743678634002023-07-02T00:00:00.001-06:002023-07-02T00:00:00.149-06:00Self-Portrait with Green Background - Colored Pencil Drawing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmiqmiULhD5aOEc9bZ4Dtm0eCrqbrD_ozzeaMpy6rM3U2gMVblbTrS1CstGPSEVpr5yzAyJVlL37iIkQeUXwdy3woe4GUzZzVESTOVOtKPilkiCOmhfldoNh9vxQy83ONdy5jKlYXZ8-3BsLH4kTZ01x0OE9ghe40hLIw8bWaonf457sypgjfMVTcipw/s1600/SelfPortraitGreen.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1276" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmiqmiULhD5aOEc9bZ4Dtm0eCrqbrD_ozzeaMpy6rM3U2gMVblbTrS1CstGPSEVpr5yzAyJVlL37iIkQeUXwdy3woe4GUzZzVESTOVOtKPilkiCOmhfldoNh9vxQy83ONdy5jKlYXZ8-3BsLH4kTZ01x0OE9ghe40hLIw8bWaonf457sypgjfMVTcipw/w510-h640/SelfPortraitGreen.jpeg" width="510" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Self-Portrait with Green Background" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">A self-portrait more concerned with the possibilities of line and color and less preoccupied with character and psychology. The picture is merely a sheet of textured paper covered by drawn forms that are filled with pencil pigment.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The head’s deep shadow sculpts the rigid structure of the face while an array of golden hues attempts to express a glowing inner-light. The pink nose, ruddy ear and indigo eyes add some allure to the numinous color scheme.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Thick strands of dark hair curl across a high forehead while tufts of muted gray are streaked into the sideburn. Accentuating the intense glare, sharp line work represents the many wrinkles and weathered features.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The biggest gamble is the verdant background that is quilted from a puzzle of interlocking shapes. The various shades of green contrast strongly with the earthen flesh, creating a vibration between the complementaries.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Searching for stability, the intention is not to achieve a photographic likeness or to evoke a specific personality. The purpose is to experiment with color and form while observing the effects that result from placing certain hues side by side.</p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-27526131660312363452023-06-11T00:00:00.001-06:002023-06-11T00:00:00.130-06:00Portrait of Lukas - Colored Pencil Drawing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2w-9FuUyI0BDGl0ICIBI7c7oiVbvmhBpm_qIi-E8c2RSiOyp6h8XE0KXMhi0TGj2-AYA9dqhlTHIb-6uWD5lSczGjN7GzdSWvb6Vrjd92q09-9P52SsNpVUCcjD5-Uc_2yDhmv_PMfwbVmF18p-x9Q0T2K8zW8xuc11kEk6cLUMRJiW_km61RsuO5/s1600/Portrait%20of%20Lukas.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1296" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2w-9FuUyI0BDGl0ICIBI7c7oiVbvmhBpm_qIi-E8c2RSiOyp6h8XE0KXMhi0TGj2-AYA9dqhlTHIb-6uWD5lSczGjN7GzdSWvb6Vrjd92q09-9P52SsNpVUCcjD5-Uc_2yDhmv_PMfwbVmF18p-x9Q0T2K8zW8xuc11kEk6cLUMRJiW_km61RsuO5/w518-h640/Portrait%20of%20Lukas.jpeg" width="518" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Portrait of Lukas" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Emerging from a violet void, the Portrait of Lukas is carefully rendered with flecks of unblemished gold. The intentionally soft shading reflects the gentle temperament of an innocent soul.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Invoking interest in this idyllic representation of adolescence is the tension created by contrasting the precise modeling of the face with the flattened grid pattern defining the much simplified shirt.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The deep, blue-violet background forms a strong complement with the child’s pale, yellow-orange complexion. The sparkling tones expressing the naive character of someone so full of life.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Influenced by his avocations, the heavy-handed line work, disentangled hair and detailed eyes is Anime inspired. A callow presence during disarray - like a kite in a hurricane or a ray of sunshine during a storm.</p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-13078697630508459692023-05-14T14:12:00.000-06:002023-05-14T14:12:26.566-06:00Cult of the Sun - Colored Pencil Drawing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOS0ea8WSj-0-VhyHSz4ecD0fclyz2hwPQnrwrUA4tTNC4YS7Axjaph6Ml8B--MR0BhHHuadHxWfb8qfU8gbJiJGC1My4f8pZbKPNwqQj-Grtdva4x2Du-PQgA7HSu5D7CALCVkFbzp1eUVaxx2wE2zHd-nm_B81ZhtXCitVHThsfk03N1Nt5gYu4/s1600/Cult%20of%20the%20Sun.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="995" data-original-width="1600" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOS0ea8WSj-0-VhyHSz4ecD0fclyz2hwPQnrwrUA4tTNC4YS7Axjaph6Ml8B--MR0BhHHuadHxWfb8qfU8gbJiJGC1My4f8pZbKPNwqQj-Grtdva4x2Du-PQgA7HSu5D7CALCVkFbzp1eUVaxx2wE2zHd-nm_B81ZhtXCitVHThsfk03N1Nt5gYu4/w640-h398/Cult%20of%20the%20Sun.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Cult of the Sun" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Warm, autumnal sunshine permeates the interior of Poudre Canyon, illuminating a kaleidoscope of dazzling colors. The splendid scene is set ablaze with an array of fiery tones that are barely balanced by the rolling, blue river.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Sturdy stands of yellow cottonwood brace both sides of the composition as patches of gray-green define their leafy profile. A line of bushes arcs into the middle ground, graduating in size, shape and color where its termination is reflected on the creek’s surface.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The rugged shallows are littered with polished stones of slate and orange while some of the bigger boulders, protruding from the deeper channel, create whitewater waves. Across the way, a pile of rubble cascades down to the far shoreline.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The steep slope is covered by an astonishing blanket of interwoven flecks of pure color that are blended by the observer’s eye. Clinging to this incredible hillside tapestry are scattered clusters of burning brush and rocky outcrops.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Set upon the crest of this high ridge is a naturally carved temple complex of sculpted columns, turrets, spires and pinnacles. The broad face of the main edifice is bleached by bright sunshine creating rigid, violet shadows.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">This monumental landscape, gouged into the mountains, evokes a certain enchantment that inspires the visitor to search for more. The sense of wonder and amazement is overwhelming to the point of spiritualism.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">For thousands of years the comforting, cyclical predictability of day, night, seasons and years has cast a spell over impressionable human beings. Some ancient religions were based on such ideology but many of their beliefs have been lost over time.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The Cult of the Sun would have faithfully worshiped this ethereal kingdom that is so saturated in divine purity. This unassuming bend in the gorge is eternally blessed to be flooded by two of the most powerful, life-giving forces on earth - sunlight and water.</p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-64068935509223521592023-02-12T19:34:00.000-07:002023-02-12T19:34:09.584-07:00The Great Blue - Colored Pencil Drawing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMluCWryg0FqImR8eNUcoF6zKXZ9lTtvv1bPbTJbT4SjYKDVNNAlMipMYN8Wgip8pERVDafoTjDJZUAIfQgw4vRHUxbpqnqFlpmUWGnXbh1owjuXEAbPca9UV5g-wF4kR_1WzQ5iRa-cKq2XMEKwDU4fRZkxQKT0OVwmvHRLfDejRpMmphtAFovEP1/s1600/Great%20Blue.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="999" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMluCWryg0FqImR8eNUcoF6zKXZ9lTtvv1bPbTJbT4SjYKDVNNAlMipMYN8Wgip8pERVDafoTjDJZUAIfQgw4vRHUxbpqnqFlpmUWGnXbh1owjuXEAbPca9UV5g-wF4kR_1WzQ5iRa-cKq2XMEKwDU4fRZkxQKT0OVwmvHRLfDejRpMmphtAFovEP1/w640-h400/Great%20Blue.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"The Great Blue" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">It’s late summer in the foothills and a great blue heron is hunting quietly along the shoreline of Evergreen Lake. The chaos generated by the passing storm from just minutes ago has receded and a peaceful calm has overtaken the watery habitat.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The bird’s image is mirrored on the surface of the smooth reservoir just as the undulating landscape is a reflection of the billowy sky overhead. Above, a churning wave of bulbous clouds streams across the troubled firmament while below, a sea of tussled grasses rushes into the lower marshland.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The meadow, lake, mountains, forest and sky are described similarly so as to unify these elements into a coherent whole. The shared color and soft shading transcends the harsh reality into a more pleasing aesthetic.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The dim light knows no boundary so a certain murkiness pervades the entire atmosphere, narrowing the range of hue and contrast. The somber palette is relieved by a few flecks and passages of pure orange, creating subtle vibrations of complementary color.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Layers of pigment create a stippled texture that covers the entire surface from top to bottom. Tiny hints of the pale surface buried underneath still show through giving a slight sparkling effect to the finished piece.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The background peaks form a melted skyline that is just beyond the reach of outstretched pine trees. The surrounding woodland’s ragged edge descends all the way down to the lake’s steep banks.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The sweeping folds in the sky are a woven tapestry of embroidered colors based on slate and ochre. Ribbons of grass are matted to the furrowed terrain that radiates throughout the lower foreground.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">An isolated bush occupies this frontal space, its dark shadows undercutting the suggestion of lush foliage. Its simplified form is loosely defined by an irregular contour of lost and found edges.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The reservoir’s placid surface is the result of a calm void left in the wake of passing bad weather. Once the turbulence subsides, the local inhabitants re-emerge trading dampened spirits for a more lively resolve.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Even though it’s not warm and sunny, a dreary day sometimes displays a certain beauty not observed under any other circumstances. The falling rain is a connection between heaven and earth where the much needed moisture cleans and nourishes the landscape as well as the soul.</p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-51427909007545882932023-01-02T15:52:00.000-07:002023-01-02T15:52:42.169-07:00Sandhills Sunset - Order Emerges Out of Chaos<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXDc798u2TC9DeBdU6RH3RfAc1Mrssw8J8OTfeN_LCHnOoM8fEOJEmDCa-l8BBjlZb0QxjzG7OAOitAYVypEv4jn-m43JW5cOyMbs0j01AwVh_FaX1dGKNO2X0YuDgqBSla1U9YeWkRMJ7HADYg9zxCdqoZcX8zSnOXwPeOvH2Bk4FRFuKXvUM-GD/s1600/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2015%2050%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXDc798u2TC9DeBdU6RH3RfAc1Mrssw8J8OTfeN_LCHnOoM8fEOJEmDCa-l8BBjlZb0QxjzG7OAOitAYVypEv4jn-m43JW5cOyMbs0j01AwVh_FaX1dGKNO2X0YuDgqBSla1U9YeWkRMJ7HADYg9zxCdqoZcX8zSnOXwPeOvH2Bk4FRFuKXvUM-GD/w640-h480/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2015%2050%20PM.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sandhills sunset</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Christmas time on the prairie and the weather conditions are brutal due to heavy snow, high winds and horrific cold. The annual winter trek to western Nebraska has been transformed into an arctic expedition.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">After a week of natural destruction, the storm subsides and a breathtaking sunset seals the covenant. A cautious trudge along the frigid creek reveals the stark aftermath of such a powerful system.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The tortured landscape is a curious blend of harshness and beauty created by the unique forces from above. The low light creeping through the forest enhances the surreal atmosphere of peace and quiet.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The charcoal-colored trees form haunting silhouettes that frame the deep perspective generated by the rolling Sandhills. Spanned by delicately arched snow-bridges, the crooked waterway recedes into the distance.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The sharp stream-bank is steepened by deep drifts that slide dangerously into the frigid water. Bergs of strange shaped ice are strewn all over accenting a frozen landscape reminiscent of the far north.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Up on the hill, a lonely homestead appears out of the fading light like a ghostly apparition. It’s the only sign of civilization during this epic moment in nature when order miraculously emerges out of chaos.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">In sharp contrast to the drama displayed by a solemn countryside, the inflamed sky is infused with fiery colors. The warm tones stretch across the horizon offering comfort and relief from the difficulties of the past few days.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The tumultuous storm proved to be fleeting and in its wake unveiled a bright new day. In the same fashion the past twelve months of ups and downs have concluded opening the way for a blessed new year.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpfhWKwlci5v9PmrNs5h3jZxJnM1skhUXwzrhiK_GwsNSdXaI3MAvP53IdnOlT1p6MNTiNqkejmEidtsl9VUFMZPGsMZ4KSuR0b42pbkpNTe0TwQ9gU5qZFBinDqDNhnJfesNMjKMtzr7MRLHBiTesNirPYySf4uH8nk0rRGJPQDlqNlLIiQkoYGMJ/s1600/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2012%2029%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpfhWKwlci5v9PmrNs5h3jZxJnM1skhUXwzrhiK_GwsNSdXaI3MAvP53IdnOlT1p6MNTiNqkejmEidtsl9VUFMZPGsMZ4KSuR0b42pbkpNTe0TwQ9gU5qZFBinDqDNhnJfesNMjKMtzr7MRLHBiTesNirPYySf4uH8nk0rRGJPQDlqNlLIiQkoYGMJ/w400-h300/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2012%2029%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A breathtaking sunset</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kUuC2fma7M_YLanUfKqXd5O500g0HjF6yY6i_NtndO9Bmh1hZz99_bSGv3UEw6H_aOmqWdWyxZRNWrTjk6_gee8lVFub_dGu4ntQ9C2LXosoM-4wolMnsge0C0QtZWXsJjP0YvQYwOVckcZkaAnCh9KU68LxsxNcO_tJMwqSO-aYVRvJIY4VfAUq/s1600/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2014%2011%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5kUuC2fma7M_YLanUfKqXd5O500g0HjF6yY6i_NtndO9Bmh1hZz99_bSGv3UEw6H_aOmqWdWyxZRNWrTjk6_gee8lVFub_dGu4ntQ9C2LXosoM-4wolMnsge0C0QtZWXsJjP0YvQYwOVckcZkaAnCh9KU68LxsxNcO_tJMwqSO-aYVRvJIY4VfAUq/w400-h300/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2014%2011%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haunting Silhouettes</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9svEotqxO-hYMRaVPEWCq0YcYspbcP4ZojntFqY009fbeWahyi1Z9OT-pImi7mQYqQJCKTsYIJ6jchykPqim51UBKMxSzGHLuptHdQF7hOyk0MAFS6D4odWHIs6zjo7suv7-doqpUQ_Qxb__vjqhcZapeOSldzYld8zBCsQtYM_pRHyrCnmfP682Z/s1600/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2014%2044%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9svEotqxO-hYMRaVPEWCq0YcYspbcP4ZojntFqY009fbeWahyi1Z9OT-pImi7mQYqQJCKTsYIJ6jchykPqim51UBKMxSzGHLuptHdQF7hOyk0MAFS6D4odWHIs6zjo7suv7-doqpUQ_Qxb__vjqhcZapeOSldzYld8zBCsQtYM_pRHyrCnmfP682Z/w400-h300/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2014%2044%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A solemn landscape</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlvSMbmsSVgNE8m8yxYwdwQTKlHsjpk9E7iPPQMWL_Kbkx3mv1nh4yZrXltWM2oT8j-GY6-LJXti7Y62D70e2TI6LOUAAQ-9BtcSJ02Pq0U54mwIPm-US1v2nzunoDrS1bqvSe9oSS9AOvanpQLlUsxz-GGiBH00_BVX68pAqF-3vBgmW80i-HGVT/s1600/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2016%2023%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlvSMbmsSVgNE8m8yxYwdwQTKlHsjpk9E7iPPQMWL_Kbkx3mv1nh4yZrXltWM2oT8j-GY6-LJXti7Y62D70e2TI6LOUAAQ-9BtcSJ02Pq0U54mwIPm-US1v2nzunoDrS1bqvSe9oSS9AOvanpQLlUsxz-GGiBH00_BVX68pAqF-3vBgmW80i-HGVT/w300-h400/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2016%2023%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The waterway recedes</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhLZPSgd2gZdkkav-CfS_LTNFdg4p2XLCPOGGtYtS2g_L8DqVAmgCBj_a_u8rKhecXvSFygAACf0I98bMDtPdkWvHWZJdnoyN7ck-v27bxRg7SEcq4f8gHaEWAIGGxLzNKL_AVjAR1BqfAmY3rWJgyXeSPx68SneHo3Yt0mLBIS8G0OPTG2RkMSfzl/s1600/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2017%2009%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhLZPSgd2gZdkkav-CfS_LTNFdg4p2XLCPOGGtYtS2g_L8DqVAmgCBj_a_u8rKhecXvSFygAACf0I98bMDtPdkWvHWZJdnoyN7ck-v27bxRg7SEcq4f8gHaEWAIGGxLzNKL_AVjAR1BqfAmY3rWJgyXeSPx68SneHo3Yt0mLBIS8G0OPTG2RkMSfzl/w400-h300/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2017%2009%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lonely homestead</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDHDYb8402IZNcXJjmIKBsn8GxHsKaUORcXNwueSwiKgN2IZGXiOJtbhI77tbj4c8nHSchG5F4b53eNfn1IlGLwRnfVUvNtDhZ-Pu5VG9LNwiMrO_5g5XwWXBlwposHBO7tP5HLAodAttyXJHKZtjxh6s0GEgB9Z7okUqyJ4sefwXlwms6m-2feV_w/s1600/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2018%2037%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDHDYb8402IZNcXJjmIKBsn8GxHsKaUORcXNwueSwiKgN2IZGXiOJtbhI77tbj4c8nHSchG5F4b53eNfn1IlGLwRnfVUvNtDhZ-Pu5VG9LNwiMrO_5g5XwWXBlwposHBO7tP5HLAodAttyXJHKZtjxh6s0GEgB9Z7okUqyJ4sefwXlwms6m-2feV_w/w400-h300/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2018%2037%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A stark aftermath</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQe96xYeeFXansj32BNNEYuZ-6lsSdYkppJmyJVeSFPR8yP43rSXdLCZn1i8U6Bx9bG4bQ7khnnF-CmoZ3OYj1_d19la66EWv35axyh_RSszvg8oJmThkLyvlTwZpK4GDgMUO0Ud18mqh6UCG2qWToAuvY49A4F4IIrMlLHISgwYA2Djl85wPm5gp/s1600/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2020%2040%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgQe96xYeeFXansj32BNNEYuZ-6lsSdYkppJmyJVeSFPR8yP43rSXdLCZn1i8U6Bx9bG4bQ7khnnF-CmoZ3OYj1_d19la66EWv35axyh_RSszvg8oJmThkLyvlTwZpK4GDgMUO0Ud18mqh6UCG2qWToAuvY49A4F4IIrMlLHISgwYA2Djl85wPm5gp/w400-h300/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2020%2040%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A tortured landscape</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYeE3clc7dCrNP_kua8HemZRiPKCMJXDWv-Uh9q2SjoawexRsvA-asLl_RXpTYTb35E3RKo1e7j5jI69rdcJMOHij5hvrElueRYeKYYhmf64VKhHe6NmJQj2AmMK7t5nOL3Jv6UcE_2L3YD9rh2aJnAq195cPos4n3Nc4FsEMF4LyofhRSUiOLusL_/s1600/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2021%2056%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYeE3clc7dCrNP_kua8HemZRiPKCMJXDWv-Uh9q2SjoawexRsvA-asLl_RXpTYTb35E3RKo1e7j5jI69rdcJMOHij5hvrElueRYeKYYhmf64VKhHe6NmJQj2AmMK7t5nOL3Jv6UcE_2L3YD9rh2aJnAq195cPos4n3Nc4FsEMF4LyofhRSUiOLusL_/w300-h400/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2021%2056%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A blend of harshness and beauty</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXDRvlJ232Mv8wzP8rIURGqmorC45-g83z2Sbd6ErtRnv6lfjeKwx_zyzoo1jSO-3KIV916c8JInLvUoTOBayunQnqYGiq5OkNd9DX68tukF540HhwGBP06wtMf2vBNlPadzrfb1Q13RtMn10rsDprV8JNwm3EaCRlA67htijPub6_c-Hiskzi0In/s1600/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2028%2016%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXDRvlJ232Mv8wzP8rIURGqmorC45-g83z2Sbd6ErtRnv6lfjeKwx_zyzoo1jSO-3KIV916c8JInLvUoTOBayunQnqYGiq5OkNd9DX68tukF540HhwGBP06wtMf2vBNlPadzrfb1Q13RtMn10rsDprV8JNwm3EaCRlA67htijPub6_c-Hiskzi0In/w300-h400/Photo%20Dec%2024%202022,%205%2028%2016%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A happy new year</td></tr></tbody></table>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-10546595852884120872022-12-05T20:00:00.000-07:002022-12-05T20:00:12.542-07:00Lake Marie - An Arena of Beauty<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9ntz9oUatFvcBIfTq_gjwbAeMWRufAHPUV0KZBU3tu89slPa07v4wvhbFVh1pjsYlClSLAwzGQOr_eJdK_b9RoIfOx_yYpRrhMOWB9Zy_oao-OZSemYGLEwmpbNLUYSX4uWtHHPx8GqGY2t7tlzAJw5cQriERfEYwSJIGWRAHCMoZay-VRQ8TRfS/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2018%2004%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb9ntz9oUatFvcBIfTq_gjwbAeMWRufAHPUV0KZBU3tu89slPa07v4wvhbFVh1pjsYlClSLAwzGQOr_eJdK_b9RoIfOx_yYpRrhMOWB9Zy_oao-OZSemYGLEwmpbNLUYSX4uWtHHPx8GqGY2t7tlzAJw5cQriERfEYwSJIGWRAHCMoZay-VRQ8TRfS/w640-h480/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2018%2004%20AM.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Marie, Wyoming</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Lying north of the border in the state of Wyoming, a graceful wilderness area is known as Medicine Bow. Lake Marie is the elegant centerpiece of this picturesque arrangement of rugged peaks.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">It’s late autumn and this normally snowy range is illuminated by an impressionistic palette of purple and orange. The high altitude reservoir of rippling water is sparkling blue on this wind-blown morning.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Draining out of the tarn, a foamy stream cascades over a steep precipice and flows through a constricted gorge. The lower landscape is blanketed by fuzzy patches of dark forest.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The airy realm above is a rocky kingdom composed of sheer cliff-walls that form an imposing backdrop. A steep pathway ascends to the spiny crest where the panoramic views of the tundra are expansive.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">During this mild interlude between the seasons, activity comes to a halt and a certain calm pervades the environment. The incredibly quiet ambiance only reinforces the sensations experienced when confronted with extreme remoteness.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Farther up on the flats there’s a stone tower overlooking the intimidating atmosphere where feelings of vulnerability and insignificance are intensified. The final, high pass is a spectacular arena of beauty showcasing raw nature at its finest.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXT6ilbadPADCf2lrsMaI7XT2RiCall7L96-GSM-ftJ37nPlPkGO_reBuzzmOvpIyBDvhz-jvRwAGKFON7WpVTDzv6x01KlwUNBMGvudD072-fyhGvKlKsBmT-3QY9y5f1nShO8Ww8ilfztQYqTGK0F1HvXYTc72AdJOV0o-skVXc0rSQs4Vq7KZzp/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2010%2054%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXT6ilbadPADCf2lrsMaI7XT2RiCall7L96-GSM-ftJ37nPlPkGO_reBuzzmOvpIyBDvhz-jvRwAGKFON7WpVTDzv6x01KlwUNBMGvudD072-fyhGvKlKsBmT-3QY9y5f1nShO8Ww8ilfztQYqTGK0F1HvXYTc72AdJOV0o-skVXc0rSQs4Vq7KZzp/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2010%2054%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An elegant centerpiece</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLNRa34_5ACnU--s7A-gH28CMW57WGLujyGYxDQc0LJEPr8LOkoMmgm451LH03A6Bsj4yv1__KhASI3fPlKfR2iiK1IYJ5ffkD9Q2YFX2jlITi5P-Eyynh9f9urNlyyou3JJDVrf2_HLtechbvo8DbMX6cLdNXT6cc6yK7fEbVzC4sXws2HjFwpe5J/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2012%2001%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLNRa34_5ACnU--s7A-gH28CMW57WGLujyGYxDQc0LJEPr8LOkoMmgm451LH03A6Bsj4yv1__KhASI3fPlKfR2iiK1IYJ5ffkD9Q2YFX2jlITi5P-Eyynh9f9urNlyyou3JJDVrf2_HLtechbvo8DbMX6cLdNXT6cc6yK7fEbVzC4sXws2HjFwpe5J/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2012%2001%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Late autumn</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJtwHXy8NR-8f-NCcqqDPeKAsu0alvR3Hez6bxEddSPmK12swyxJXOvnSdGyMHndAudmyMUvdjXGRGpj3AcP8Ju6mF2W9IfTABr-aHtBqyK8st0Y0jovB597EiMgnWbVR9hLTJLhBZWlKMulcBx_AF8PGzaL6Mf5WW0rh7Pv7thgC-cSNqIMJgv3-/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2013%2021%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKJtwHXy8NR-8f-NCcqqDPeKAsu0alvR3Hez6bxEddSPmK12swyxJXOvnSdGyMHndAudmyMUvdjXGRGpj3AcP8Ju6mF2W9IfTABr-aHtBqyK8st0Y0jovB597EiMgnWbVR9hLTJLhBZWlKMulcBx_AF8PGzaL6Mf5WW0rh7Pv7thgC-cSNqIMJgv3-/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2013%2021%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sheer cliff-walls</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCliJiiq73qsSJcpQqnQNvhCdV4eCf53WVXarqL152XZzyLa87uZ5lryuw3yJAjgAglqOoPdGKQZziw2MP6k0QRCpGL7VqwUyWm7alzxIGeRAQyzD42u12ZfcGI3gnB1dISEC1lmzfBZe6sRQitQHrTEnqxEQ9hWjm5M_PhEUch6uTtY1dfGo4Wib/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2019%2008%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcCliJiiq73qsSJcpQqnQNvhCdV4eCf53WVXarqL152XZzyLa87uZ5lryuw3yJAjgAglqOoPdGKQZziw2MP6k0QRCpGL7VqwUyWm7alzxIGeRAQyzD42u12ZfcGI3gnB1dISEC1lmzfBZe6sRQitQHrTEnqxEQ9hWjm5M_PhEUch6uTtY1dfGo4Wib/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2019%2008%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A picturesque arrangement of peaks</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnse_Nh-GqSEyFR9iZO9drHzGBC83QLvvti4Q5cWIb65oEmUq7J_eT9oBtK0flFoOEkZJn5cu62_U-1aaW5lvxtwkFQ0-0a4-RBPKKfLUxJwm47-tg3LY3UGkGwoq4OSrHQVpTvPrhGN8QTQ7lWm4FoxURHcdbAWL9CFARDy7-h65Ev9lMWoCXvqp6/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2019%2019%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnse_Nh-GqSEyFR9iZO9drHzGBC83QLvvti4Q5cWIb65oEmUq7J_eT9oBtK0flFoOEkZJn5cu62_U-1aaW5lvxtwkFQ0-0a4-RBPKKfLUxJwm47-tg3LY3UGkGwoq4OSrHQVpTvPrhGN8QTQ7lWm4FoxURHcdbAWL9CFARDy7-h65Ev9lMWoCXvqp6/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2019%2019%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rippling water</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2D2YGYcPyubSJKNYR2XCQly7GLqUO5flfFcXnLtIyvrUF53HEmKLbStpKhSOQigobdZwmt5hd0rdy9lr_wTcuKLzk48FwdB6OtV-50WIkTnEdGAdz41HOapso88uueObqkgzRiqFZP3A588Q0WslZfR-C9InAxoVt6BBJMnyBnvJYtMaJKtprngl8/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2037%2001%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2D2YGYcPyubSJKNYR2XCQly7GLqUO5flfFcXnLtIyvrUF53HEmKLbStpKhSOQigobdZwmt5hd0rdy9lr_wTcuKLzk48FwdB6OtV-50WIkTnEdGAdz41HOapso88uueObqkgzRiqFZP3A588Q0WslZfR-C9InAxoVt6BBJMnyBnvJYtMaJKtprngl8/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2037%2001%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A foamy stream</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDEUvAPOW7XkSpay4kVfLCD1rcrvPrQKHfDdVo96qJP1iMS3kqxh-ZBG11Y7fltBs2W3Y71IZjhChQe96vfnB_g5Sf8sRVLDc6oB9FmA1yGdNpG5oHgWfcc0BKYQoLMRZdyq7_yP4mbFHZVy56e1xZV3g_cUtQdoyuYdl3ztMyTqpzJBf72UE8LmO/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2039%2048%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLDEUvAPOW7XkSpay4kVfLCD1rcrvPrQKHfDdVo96qJP1iMS3kqxh-ZBG11Y7fltBs2W3Y71IZjhChQe96vfnB_g5Sf8sRVLDc6oB9FmA1yGdNpG5oHgWfcc0BKYQoLMRZdyq7_yP4mbFHZVy56e1xZV3g_cUtQdoyuYdl3ztMyTqpzJBf72UE8LmO/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2039%2048%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Extreme remoteness</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJWdTsOLPd8WmpvQogOa0v8NtsY86YK_zIM-kwNiHW4MK2tDOz6wDxh-tE57sJh_oEYCKH6GZmg5Fp5hbDC7sZbVDrpTov3VVtsV_4UUx79jojfXIYSgu_pVWJWEiTBRhJ6dFwuFDthrTQp5pfBw1-17ZR_LDEJHwslVlzlFTJ0_yOkcK88Rj_PjN/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2041%2031%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoJWdTsOLPd8WmpvQogOa0v8NtsY86YK_zIM-kwNiHW4MK2tDOz6wDxh-tE57sJh_oEYCKH6GZmg5Fp5hbDC7sZbVDrpTov3VVtsV_4UUx79jojfXIYSgu_pVWJWEiTBRhJ6dFwuFDthrTQp5pfBw1-17ZR_LDEJHwslVlzlFTJ0_yOkcK88Rj_PjN/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2041%2031%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medicine Bow Wilderness</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz6oZwwbiemflMAST8LFQyelB9Q55fbg2IEHeJb3195l_jdFoK4FSRnm9vczjGQaCiZW0IIo5K1yW8nFGtTFafNNBVUN-tcWzcQOBhAXnAjZQdn0f5Ae2Ju-MwG021R_OZ22s5H3lCfHozImmaHsFUaHnC7nqUS6VCD9BPbsQqxU_PFirGeVdlopbx/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2043%2055%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz6oZwwbiemflMAST8LFQyelB9Q55fbg2IEHeJb3195l_jdFoK4FSRnm9vczjGQaCiZW0IIo5K1yW8nFGtTFafNNBVUN-tcWzcQOBhAXnAjZQdn0f5Ae2Ju-MwG021R_OZ22s5H3lCfHozImmaHsFUaHnC7nqUS6VCD9BPbsQqxU_PFirGeVdlopbx/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2043%2055%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A constricted gorge</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3TOIp8Sdb8WL8C5OlRBukzSzvt_QEmXplG2MmhF3KIVLteV6CylzcGefR7JlI2ukhqGdGL7fmquFnKza65wxbSBuUP-7_PBvfz9yJrMtubDJgkuDncMADAvUmUTkLsTuB7AsQJbpNo18U3hfzBYqXFliLt09s9-AD6kpcqMG7oino91PvnGLu2OwD/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2052%2028%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3TOIp8Sdb8WL8C5OlRBukzSzvt_QEmXplG2MmhF3KIVLteV6CylzcGefR7JlI2ukhqGdGL7fmquFnKza65wxbSBuUP-7_PBvfz9yJrMtubDJgkuDncMADAvUmUTkLsTuB7AsQJbpNo18U3hfzBYqXFliLt09s9-AD6kpcqMG7oino91PvnGLu2OwD/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2010%2052%2028%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The tundra is expansive</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9m9ZFaDObc62Zn76KkdqIMxoHzDMpcoWyJmNm83C7Hn9Mv621eMzbx7nZ9_b65e7cBbh3pWmRsXniAhJCc79UMdk93GqBY2jD1419naPWWYqmoArv_HhIQWirKntMwo5_1FdWgV9IooG_p2cfIASO6vWQcoDnE4IM9ZjtEVVChn_8qjWH4eBlUWVC/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2011%2002%2010%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9m9ZFaDObc62Zn76KkdqIMxoHzDMpcoWyJmNm83C7Hn9Mv621eMzbx7nZ9_b65e7cBbh3pWmRsXniAhJCc79UMdk93GqBY2jD1419naPWWYqmoArv_HhIQWirKntMwo5_1FdWgV9IooG_p2cfIASO6vWQcoDnE4IM9ZjtEVVChn_8qjWH4eBlUWVC/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2022%202022,%2011%2002%2010%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stone Tower Overlook</td></tr></tbody></table>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-63450603271965853072022-11-12T17:48:00.000-07:002022-11-12T17:48:10.148-07:00Poudre Canyon - An Awesome Realm<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibh-gZNWDxQLpmW8qLbPW8k-XLeiO0gZZxRMuACr7FxxuBQFdzoQcYIWERENUOaTUPgmq5FCaWO3EnTfCjyOt3bvfKenQxTt7IS7RHtZApBby-9mh0UKh4iGq1h97QCzdD9DZp_BZocbZJwFRppYHSWVCPXYB-GcTxDy7zO09Qliye_FTRma7RBn_P/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2038%2040%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibh-gZNWDxQLpmW8qLbPW8k-XLeiO0gZZxRMuACr7FxxuBQFdzoQcYIWERENUOaTUPgmq5FCaWO3EnTfCjyOt3bvfKenQxTt7IS7RHtZApBby-9mh0UKh4iGq1h97QCzdD9DZp_BZocbZJwFRppYHSWVCPXYB-GcTxDy7zO09Qliye_FTRma7RBn_P/w640-h480/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2038%2040%20AM.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poudre Canyon</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Gashed into the northern Front Range Foothills, Poudre Canyon is a steep drainage that’s as picturesque as it is rugged. A braid of blue water snakes through the tortuous chasm while flowing down to the lowlands.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">At its most shallow in the autumn, the Poudre River reveals the multitude of rocks and debris normally submerged below the surface. The lazy current and quiet solitude evoke a peaceful atmosphere of extreme tranquility.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Sinewy cottonwoods fringe the banks and the golden foliage, flickering in the morning sunlight, is even more brilliant when set against the cobalt sky. The trees cast transparent shadows that sneak passively across the coarse terrain.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The gorge is boxed in by steep walls that have been eroded into a spectacular arrangement of jagged peaks, pinnacles and spires. Peering up from within the ravine, the ridge line is described by an impressive, sawtooth profile.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">A lonely road contours the winding refuge as it gradually ascends the narrow pass to its wind-blown summit. From here the scenery suddenly changes and a wide vista opens up to a treeless plateau.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Down the backside is a big meadow known as North Park where high mountains ring the expansive grassland. Full of birds and wildlife, the wetland valley is the perfect culmination to a long day navigating the trail.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The countryside’s warm colors reflect the pleasant climate of late summer while postponing the advancing gray. It won’t be long before winter descends on this northern environment and heavy snows make entry into this awesome realm virtually impossible.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPQlVTa7WPS3vbJe7iI0PU67sAATpP0r59eztUvECYfFhjC3FaT0yzLty1Jl5pBqvm_1lOAKHuIJc7-zcUcnbJ2j1lAKbanayWgXGYCASE9bGTg4a0mc_jRZeulaV-aH5M8KhI4QjM8ne6QW2qrvVGOxtiHYBJQ37WCg2lZDqrbX6y32vDtwWTOD8_/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2023%2056%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPQlVTa7WPS3vbJe7iI0PU67sAATpP0r59eztUvECYfFhjC3FaT0yzLty1Jl5pBqvm_1lOAKHuIJc7-zcUcnbJ2j1lAKbanayWgXGYCASE9bGTg4a0mc_jRZeulaV-aH5M8KhI4QjM8ne6QW2qrvVGOxtiHYBJQ37WCg2lZDqrbX6y32vDtwWTOD8_/w300-h400/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2023%2056%20AM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pleasant climate</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizx45pDH3aMHpYiunRM5X4qRRY0Ga_8SX4FZWlZLjsAd3klU6nd-mxvzusAJ1nzO4oiCRfn7BzgEwkiZhY9rUDNVRdLmJQlumH2niZyREZ_Rt2WFLPkiuUNRsA_tqIB9fnco49g6gtv7JyA74wJa94bE3G3Qt29RvTNRwESpRxKsowAU_o37n59SKH/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2024%2020%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizx45pDH3aMHpYiunRM5X4qRRY0Ga_8SX4FZWlZLjsAd3klU6nd-mxvzusAJ1nzO4oiCRfn7BzgEwkiZhY9rUDNVRdLmJQlumH2niZyREZ_Rt2WFLPkiuUNRsA_tqIB9fnco49g6gtv7JyA74wJa94bE3G3Qt29RvTNRwESpRxKsowAU_o37n59SKH/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2024%2020%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A picturesque drainage</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9yVu-IL53ux6nxHTfL53wI7ekd5iuqZIG7Jbl9IEwe5w4MlzAdv-zIbIZy7V_hYn1_3SaI-uVneUpf-dx9lZXYyNJG8TZ-5jLSrVSREV9ze8PwbiGbPjDtAIOpKY_zJ0AVh5a5OCFvOtg6uFNBQ7kuXaPApRJx96bphRaD8cSYayAwLs27ccd_9dh/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2024%2030%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9yVu-IL53ux6nxHTfL53wI7ekd5iuqZIG7Jbl9IEwe5w4MlzAdv-zIbIZy7V_hYn1_3SaI-uVneUpf-dx9lZXYyNJG8TZ-5jLSrVSREV9ze8PwbiGbPjDtAIOpKY_zJ0AVh5a5OCFvOtg6uFNBQ7kuXaPApRJx96bphRaD8cSYayAwLs27ccd_9dh/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2024%2030%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quiet solitude</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0t1Gb5a6tRGRqKgRmz92Buvku_UQy-0pi7CdIMlGIWFodxbk1QWjWAcpUjn65MyP_tzn2M6qNeE8LyCpQenp5-AUIBv54XRE7OgAHn-p27De4zcpOG_06aaVkzc4v80-wzEYpZIKLX2kA4WQLzMLlx7RK0NvvDIf8vPTBKw7GWNBswxlZPPCYCl2F/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2025%2003%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0t1Gb5a6tRGRqKgRmz92Buvku_UQy-0pi7CdIMlGIWFodxbk1QWjWAcpUjn65MyP_tzn2M6qNeE8LyCpQenp5-AUIBv54XRE7OgAHn-p27De4zcpOG_06aaVkzc4v80-wzEYpZIKLX2kA4WQLzMLlx7RK0NvvDIf8vPTBKw7GWNBswxlZPPCYCl2F/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2025%2003%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Transparent shadows</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi61Q7A9QVAsZmFHZpP9i8F6QhsAsXSWKU1GSPH4KG70pXnRcdDZxcHBebISWXfYvJprjLqoIJPk15wyAffd6hcFaHKOfM5mV9v0mIT4RjJtSn_1C_MyWToQbak9KgLLr4QeaGyRm-PDw5qdThI9gveAPCkTonS9CPmmJzOvoFFLqXQisUlERto9v9c/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2025%2025%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi61Q7A9QVAsZmFHZpP9i8F6QhsAsXSWKU1GSPH4KG70pXnRcdDZxcHBebISWXfYvJprjLqoIJPk15wyAffd6hcFaHKOfM5mV9v0mIT4RjJtSn_1C_MyWToQbak9KgLLr4QeaGyRm-PDw5qdThI9gveAPCkTonS9CPmmJzOvoFFLqXQisUlERto9v9c/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2025%2025%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A multitude of rocks and debris</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLlGvrdGZCpQVLhsOgrNYepY8pwTI83qcpQTM_CQ5KrJtIpF3V5VQZfHqeNCj4RZRmsWwqeuTydnYqb3JWFPBgskFIlICAnQ5LRZn3d0qOeknCvckLU1y9iUgoP11McjL4aBeq8CCSGQfhgTlT37AenW1ceDccEsPzv-Ssquck8oXnLoyKoneQSGV/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2025%2044%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLlGvrdGZCpQVLhsOgrNYepY8pwTI83qcpQTM_CQ5KrJtIpF3V5VQZfHqeNCj4RZRmsWwqeuTydnYqb3JWFPBgskFIlICAnQ5LRZn3d0qOeknCvckLU1y9iUgoP11McjL4aBeq8CCSGQfhgTlT37AenW1ceDccEsPzv-Ssquck8oXnLoyKoneQSGV/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2025%2044%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A torturous chasm</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYp71fkakxJj_1XbgQQcHERaAOPgcXTq8Eqrxy9wS7yQEcOKc-EYqTMdiovEbHSb9S9uQ_vajdBqQzvGuNZJNDgmaLwjpfBoy74-Xa0HPGPh16jtixdzwZ6mLM3BXc1_CbTmA779FhSGBQLHEg-VI0RQWSpkbe_2tjfwpnMv_8vVXvpbrOvuZ2wDa/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2037%2022%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiYp71fkakxJj_1XbgQQcHERaAOPgcXTq8Eqrxy9wS7yQEcOKc-EYqTMdiovEbHSb9S9uQ_vajdBqQzvGuNZJNDgmaLwjpfBoy74-Xa0HPGPh16jtixdzwZ6mLM3BXc1_CbTmA779FhSGBQLHEg-VI0RQWSpkbe_2tjfwpnMv_8vVXvpbrOvuZ2wDa/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2037%2022%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shallow in the autumn</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVSTXuIwo1q75SkBpKVsydlcFj26hbm2r6p-YWtzi1k6SsF-UKIAlNTw8E6eySY7eaQ2rCTZpbhemzYPDveq8r93l7F9QKNkyWQo6zszsRHCoOtAT6OrEcaNkCeHTzMrv4-cC6yZes-PSMXJTGCpBNqGdwFb7I2WclQlP-VVYx-1GWimDLl0BDzEnK/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2038%2008%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVSTXuIwo1q75SkBpKVsydlcFj26hbm2r6p-YWtzi1k6SsF-UKIAlNTw8E6eySY7eaQ2rCTZpbhemzYPDveq8r93l7F9QKNkyWQo6zszsRHCoOtAT6OrEcaNkCeHTzMrv4-cC6yZes-PSMXJTGCpBNqGdwFb7I2WclQlP-VVYx-1GWimDLl0BDzEnK/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2038%2008%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An awesome realm</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyxwycjTZ4VGb7UU_O73GBolbzn9bn5KTburk0ed55Sg8eGO7jd1OHbHX8zZQqgNaKVddS5oOYZS8qC2J8Gp1bKEZ6Sw0xjAdLrrHCgFi0qcS-1Isw4ggTERRPNc65Tcv1AxpdjPlTsdbRclR9IsSjeYah11fi4jf7TQhGZNpRFMbyMnnRZu4skXs3/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2038%2018%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyxwycjTZ4VGb7UU_O73GBolbzn9bn5KTburk0ed55Sg8eGO7jd1OHbHX8zZQqgNaKVddS5oOYZS8qC2J8Gp1bKEZ6Sw0xjAdLrrHCgFi0qcS-1Isw4ggTERRPNc65Tcv1AxpdjPlTsdbRclR9IsSjeYah11fi4jf7TQhGZNpRFMbyMnnRZu4skXs3/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2038%2018%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jagged peaks, pinnacles and spires</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1-NwlUkAiNL1gkdt0VW0kc1Dt_GuvUVS8XER-EhnwjqOPrOsCnguU7dV40Y5YeNrgNVgo7ninprmdy3EwQT-IqTuHdncuSn5TZa5hgYiZY5UjObYeqb1DsOD0jLMi4bLwmawDoHdHRuFgV0uPRB7vnkePJFaB5G5TCXP6agLJiwseEYdBWY8JjYAQ/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2040%2046%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1-NwlUkAiNL1gkdt0VW0kc1Dt_GuvUVS8XER-EhnwjqOPrOsCnguU7dV40Y5YeNrgNVgo7ninprmdy3EwQT-IqTuHdncuSn5TZa5hgYiZY5UjObYeqb1DsOD0jLMi4bLwmawDoHdHRuFgV0uPRB7vnkePJFaB5G5TCXP6agLJiwseEYdBWY8JjYAQ/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2011%2040%2046%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lazy current</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqZKZPmG9Xs8cgLk9P0m9GEwiNlbLe5m90LlkvBVyHgWn6WyojP_pM87WfPucblRC_yTi-jj6TAfu5K6MC74-JKJb5dNVjuPIGvg5X0h6gPCDjHQ6sAVD2vEPPF8D-xUSOgdmx_O5umD1iow2mTkmiJgcuHeGpMNcdGKhabfkn6BICWFvVz91cPGt/s1600/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2012%2041%2002%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqZKZPmG9Xs8cgLk9P0m9GEwiNlbLe5m90LlkvBVyHgWn6WyojP_pM87WfPucblRC_yTi-jj6TAfu5K6MC74-JKJb5dNVjuPIGvg5X0h6gPCDjHQ6sAVD2vEPPF8D-xUSOgdmx_O5umD1iow2mTkmiJgcuHeGpMNcdGKhabfkn6BICWFvVz91cPGt/w400-h300/Photo%20Oct%2020%202022,%2012%2041%2002%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A wind-blown summit</td></tr></tbody></table>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-17002669262507669132022-10-02T16:33:00.000-06:002022-10-02T16:33:51.689-06:00Prairie Solstice - Colored Pencil Drawing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXoewJkiqomqQJGgftVzkMsaU86h6ZQGi0Xi6jg6YHjmIuPeUhcpPWuPguIjTrv97Dds3qam-BAQ7nWybiSkrcBGrV_CDH-w8p-rHVG41pjuo2FJLyKAZWeVpYb-rZwRvLlSjhd5wEJzjLgIm4ha7uw1LFaYHKP9DA5Nn3-rl0ISnunHeZ6Svp-m3I/s1600/Prairie%20Solstice.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="989" data-original-width="1600" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXoewJkiqomqQJGgftVzkMsaU86h6ZQGi0Xi6jg6YHjmIuPeUhcpPWuPguIjTrv97Dds3qam-BAQ7nWybiSkrcBGrV_CDH-w8p-rHVG41pjuo2FJLyKAZWeVpYb-rZwRvLlSjhd5wEJzjLgIm4ha7uw1LFaYHKP9DA5Nn3-rl0ISnunHeZ6Svp-m3I/w640-h396/Prairie%20Solstice.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Prairie Solstice" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Rising starkly above a sea of dried prairie grass, a pair of megalithic landmarks are backlit by the setting sun. It’s the first day of summer so on this special day the solar disk splits the giant rocks, flooding the atmosphere with yellow light.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">A long, dark shadow is unfurled across the undulating terrain, reinforcing the permanence of the mysterious landscape. Grazing peacefully, a few horses are the only creatures to bear witness to the incredible ambience associated with this yearly event.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Citron luminescence radiates into the sky creating a gradient of color that extends from teal to blue-violet. Modulated by soft shading and broken edges, a web of silky clouds is spun across the crystal-clear firmament.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">It’s an idyllic vision of a peaceful pastureland set in a remote section of the Great Plains. The reticent countryside of rolling hills is a place where the awesome power of nature is unmasked every day.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The landscape, weather and wildlife that define this place are sometimes still exhibited in a primitive state. The untouched and untainted innocence of the spacious wilderness inspires a creative imagination.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The striking contrast between the characteristics of each season results in a calendar of yearly events that is engraved in the mind. One of the most anticipated is the comforting, predictable return of light and warmth guaranteed by the annual summer solstice.</p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-80047202914763553302022-09-10T13:08:00.001-06:002022-09-10T13:08:52.604-06:00Days of Glory - Colored Pencil Drawing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBz1MkY4_zHrMMwEtyNZrGEROxLv3LRK55RCnUTASt95ZPYbOWZmmvfCbrIfvVH57xn4Jd50nuNZBu6XWZhlZ7LjNWl56uHZQMMyEqytbJAFRAs2-rfeSpRc6wDwcHDv1AsawSK5Q8TEit89mD53uy59D7X4YczGuv-XGVaOXzs6v0p_EO9gGDe9ey/s1600/GloryDays.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="711" data-original-width="1600" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBz1MkY4_zHrMMwEtyNZrGEROxLv3LRK55RCnUTASt95ZPYbOWZmmvfCbrIfvVH57xn4Jd50nuNZBu6XWZhlZ7LjNWl56uHZQMMyEqytbJAFRAs2-rfeSpRc6wDwcHDv1AsawSK5Q8TEit89mD53uy59D7X4YczGuv-XGVaOXzs6v0p_EO9gGDe9ey/w640-h284/GloryDays.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Days of Glory" Colored Pencil Drawing</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">It’s the early 1900s and Bridgeport, Nebraska is a fledgling community basking in the sunshine of its glory days. The town is known as “Trail City, USA” because it sits on or near many trails of the Old West including the Oregon, California, Mormon, Pony Express and Sidney-Black Hills trails.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Back in 1876, Henry T. Clarke built a bridge across the North Platte River just three miles upstream from the current site of Bridgeport. This overpass improved the link between Sidney and the booming, gold-mining settlements in the Black Hills.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The exchange of goods and precious metals between the two regions flourished for about a decade. During that time a loose-knit medley of early settlers established Camp Clarke, a small village located near the river.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The actual town of Bridgeport was officially founded as a railway station by the Burlington Railroad in 1900. After the coming of the trains, the population increased dramatically and in 1908 Bridgeport was promptly awarded the seat for newly created Morrill County.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Later, an ingeniously designed irrigation system brought a surplus of life-giving water to the thirsty plains. There is no doubt that this labyrinth of water works contributed greatly to the success and growth of the local farms and ranches.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">This preparatory drawing commemorates those early years during the development of the city. The image will be scaled up and reproduced as a sign to be installed on the side of an old train car at the Pioneer Trails Museum in Bridgeport, Nebraska.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">This design is not meant to be a precise, photographic reproduction of that time but more an expression of the excitement evoked by the modernization of the American frontier and reflected by the futurist art movement. It celebrates dynamic movement, color and composition.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The underlying structure is based on multiple perspectives that offer unusual, but more interesting viewpoints not observable under normal conditions. The color, though naturalistic, is amped up a bit and the composition is flooded with diagonals.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">A modern marvel of gleaming silver, the stylized, steam locomotive charges into the foreground guided by tracks of timber and iron. The station stop, composed of crimson-roofed adobe outbuildings, is matter-of-factly identified as Bridgeport.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Exhaust from the smokestack streams through the air towards the iconic water tower and fades into the atmosphere where clouds drift over the purple Sandhills. The bright red lettering is hand-drawn and charmingly compliments the golden border that encloses the scene.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The town of Bridgeport has continued to evolve into a thriving, prosperous community but in a lot of ways it has remained the same. Just as it did over a 100 years ago, the economy still depends on agriculture, government and the railroad.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Despite all of the technological advancements, many residents still embrace the town’s rich history. Most people agree that no matter what happens in the future, there will never be a time so illustrious as those original days of glory.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv3wzTdWsjWRIFMIMT39jL42XPpI2o0ZeL41aREueDJz8mgt9dbJyT8YII3lQ2kqYXx5JYXWLg2SxasiXmWpyJSCR-i5msHKCZmec9eEf_Z2SPg3w7wUlmmkHxzBT3KTKWRB5mWALwNX0oGUiUdrLSYpZlCLoxu_EWiy3BtrkL18ng1HRUeEX4JycJ/s1600/Photo%20Sep%2009,%206%2043%2041%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="968" data-original-width="1600" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv3wzTdWsjWRIFMIMT39jL42XPpI2o0ZeL41aREueDJz8mgt9dbJyT8YII3lQ2kqYXx5JYXWLg2SxasiXmWpyJSCR-i5msHKCZmec9eEf_Z2SPg3w7wUlmmkHxzBT3KTKWRB5mWALwNX0oGUiUdrLSYpZlCLoxu_EWiy3BtrkL18ng1HRUeEX4JycJ/w400-h243/Photo%20Sep%2009,%206%2043%2041%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Installed on the side of a train car</td></tr></tbody></table>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-2868870401292527882022-08-15T20:44:00.000-06:002022-08-15T20:44:21.260-06:00Agate Fossil Beds - A Land That Time Forgot<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3HSFjhhaTL6gux82A3hjvxvpRvXopAFwYzq9Afz-VQOntYAtZq6rRVPek9v5mUYauMpcSKzux0T1g_NWuQm0WVmAVRdn6dzDxFmsKNuXJeSqdRHiTOsUrrgqDrAzn40h6Tw2X7IwVhcnJB1e-5e2mlpEzk5iaeLscoAv3sjxdUnFNpwLffCi25aYW/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2036%2017%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3HSFjhhaTL6gux82A3hjvxvpRvXopAFwYzq9Afz-VQOntYAtZq6rRVPek9v5mUYauMpcSKzux0T1g_NWuQm0WVmAVRdn6dzDxFmsKNuXJeSqdRHiTOsUrrgqDrAzn40h6Tw2X7IwVhcnJB1e-5e2mlpEzk5iaeLscoAv3sjxdUnFNpwLffCi25aYW/w640-h480/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2036%2017%20PM.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Agate Fossil Beds</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Unearthed in the panhandle that is western Nebraska, the Agate Fossil Beds are a fascinating monument documenting ancient history. From the associated museum, a steep, 3-mile trail leads up to Fossil Hills where the old dig site can still be seen.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">At the end of the dinosaurs, 65 million years ago, this area was a tropical lowland and mammals began to emerge. Volcanic activity was intense and a range of mountains started to form in the west while the climate became cooler and drier, transforming the region into a great savanna where immense herds of animals grazed on lush grasses.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Common species on the prairie were Palaeocastor - a dry land beaver, Moropus - a distant relative of the horse, Menoceras - a three-foot-tall rhino and Stenomylus - a tiny gazelle-camel. Carnivores evolved to prey on these plains-dwellers the most notorious of which were Daphoenodon - a fearsome beardog and Dinohyus - a terrible hog endowed with bone-crushing teeth enabling it to scavenge the remains of other grassland animals.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Millions of years later and the mature Rocky Mountains were a barrier blocking moist air from reaching the broad plains. It wasn’t long before the high steppe became distressingly arid, causing vegetation to wither and water sources to evaporate.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">About 20 million years ago a severe drought ravaged the vicinity and thousands of creatures, gathered around the pitiful water holes, perished from starvation. The countless skeletal remains produced bone beds that were soon buried in a mixture of silt, sand, ash and water.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">By the 1880s wind erosion had begun to reveal the carnage and rancher James Cook discovered a few petrified bones protruding conspicuously from the earth on his property. Academics were notified and the site became a sensational paleontological discovery.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Thousands upon thousands of fossils were retrieved, catalogued, studied and pieced together, enlightening scientists with a plethora of valuable information about the Miocene Epoch. The field work is presently discontinued so visitors with the fortitude to make the hike up the hill have virtually unlimited access to the remarkable bone beds.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The trek begins by crossing a skinny ribbon of blue water known as the Niobrara and ascends the treeless slopes to the summit. It’s super hot in the summer but it’s worth the effort because the valley view from the top is distinguished by unsurpassed beauty.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The literal sea of grass is broken by coulees, ravines, draws and eroded cliffs that resemble pinnacles, spires and turrets. It’s not long before the extreme isolation and expanse of awesome landscape begin to instill feelings of precarious vulnerability. It truly is a land that time forgot.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXk0T5lh-wmttSS4AbHjhvkDHHLv--N0AzMzzOrpyMCuFvlD7vRNd8FcgX6QKoY4viKAyley6YeNsd75i91eKs4ZJ94CtEDdKxhngFerTNmMeRCrsH68n5LnYYXDGuMM2L2s1emhdqZoBaY9HRmM7sHGsHmlZdM5mdkMcmWa0y7KJ10n0-7lUVusUr/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2006%2033%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXk0T5lh-wmttSS4AbHjhvkDHHLv--N0AzMzzOrpyMCuFvlD7vRNd8FcgX6QKoY4viKAyley6YeNsd75i91eKs4ZJ94CtEDdKxhngFerTNmMeRCrsH68n5LnYYXDGuMM2L2s1emhdqZoBaY9HRmM7sHGsHmlZdM5mdkMcmWa0y7KJ10n0-7lUVusUr/w400-h300/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2006%2033%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fossil Hills</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LjYpRVRCzVHSmWWoSUP4pGN7pcTw1o0UgmsUEe4YyClp-fZVxLKyhDJEVCRLkrQRiA5q1hwopv1NmoIiNz4wz6kTaVeHdpJq8tMRR6Arc7BHDCXdLSw8EeCkTyhnumdDAoFc1kHPUkq13rXRb-J6SLEwsl63T4V59LDgDy7fFt1fCS1ZvsyBFX6H/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2009%2012%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_LjYpRVRCzVHSmWWoSUP4pGN7pcTw1o0UgmsUEe4YyClp-fZVxLKyhDJEVCRLkrQRiA5q1hwopv1NmoIiNz4wz6kTaVeHdpJq8tMRR6Arc7BHDCXdLSw8EeCkTyhnumdDAoFc1kHPUkq13rXRb-J6SLEwsl63T4V59LDgDy7fFt1fCS1ZvsyBFX6H/w400-h300/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2009%2012%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Niobrara River</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgraeR3ddQPiX6h0bmr5PraZi98TOHJXcgxp3drswBg4R2WAtpMvPKB83AUfSIvDG53CesX2Nu9tf_BIwySPlDi9zCu_l5yP16Ep1_Q0e1X10_k-6f8jiIx2ObP3748zIf-l5AjictqWnUiqL0yfkglmn-snI1M2IKxxUl8xcIRWsI2tcVRXpDYbm18/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2016%2024%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgraeR3ddQPiX6h0bmr5PraZi98TOHJXcgxp3drswBg4R2WAtpMvPKB83AUfSIvDG53CesX2Nu9tf_BIwySPlDi9zCu_l5yP16Ep1_Q0e1X10_k-6f8jiIx2ObP3748zIf-l5AjictqWnUiqL0yfkglmn-snI1M2IKxxUl8xcIRWsI2tcVRXpDYbm18/w400-h300/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2016%2024%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A vast grassland</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijeFDqvgbg38lxPx5gXtpKJ_MRPf7aN-NB3imoj4NcHPmF2JRo55w1Ah7rSfGYYIkf7vczycFHziGsI9qHA6n8spgkT4IusR7ripG6Ez-2uBweTLbKidOI3h2qXL46F6aSaaYDi9blBBflHrT7MD-9oARyX0sAx8jz6bYZKWoTMd0HtmXuoDG0Kh_t/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2031%2037%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijeFDqvgbg38lxPx5gXtpKJ_MRPf7aN-NB3imoj4NcHPmF2JRo55w1Ah7rSfGYYIkf7vczycFHziGsI9qHA6n8spgkT4IusR7ripG6Ez-2uBweTLbKidOI3h2qXL46F6aSaaYDi9blBBflHrT7MD-9oARyX0sAx8jz6bYZKWoTMd0HtmXuoDG0Kh_t/w400-h300/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2031%2037%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiking to the summit</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtSxzNuxVZJKqSkuz67A1qHEwstylL9zATkRyyLloy0gRVoAyrZSmebrtxISxbciorkfEnq3ayV7EJ2eqKHB-oPf_36f_y6RRd9n7ofsU7FgerywMxgQ34lW3OUAeMYml6O-ASSot0tQSJW3gy7Tp_I-mE1y5M5qT6EbdeGI0S8mBC4u9UVcsyZJbj/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2034%2054%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtSxzNuxVZJKqSkuz67A1qHEwstylL9zATkRyyLloy0gRVoAyrZSmebrtxISxbciorkfEnq3ayV7EJ2eqKHB-oPf_36f_y6RRd9n7ofsU7FgerywMxgQ34lW3OUAeMYml6O-ASSot0tQSJW3gy7Tp_I-mE1y5M5qT6EbdeGI0S8mBC4u9UVcsyZJbj/w400-h300/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2034%2054%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Agate Fossil Bone Bed</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZagJv7rp1MvYYPO-TqxnlE04hEB2tX3GrQjqF15AWppaMe_ywUJ38n1qY8osd1C5FA7sKSP16GFUhc149uVGoektp2O4b-ELWGDIUH_N3b0-znMMGyVuidmn2ijy5YQL4_TazytxiNjZ6Q3MeKeJKaB-RlF-JO9i8ia4LFj9JajUSarZdyMnLHyR/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2035%2003%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRZagJv7rp1MvYYPO-TqxnlE04hEB2tX3GrQjqF15AWppaMe_ywUJ38n1qY8osd1C5FA7sKSP16GFUhc149uVGoektp2O4b-ELWGDIUH_N3b0-znMMGyVuidmn2ijy5YQL4_TazytxiNjZ6Q3MeKeJKaB-RlF-JO9i8ia4LFj9JajUSarZdyMnLHyR/w300-h400/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2035%2003%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sensational discovery</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtHqxSMclTGYiLtjRoJ2KfYXc3GdI5TCG6WaOmNDsx82uQ2QuT4nkbo6DpXFluatF_6IgIIvCBrxmRKvcPZOlp0JT29WYL54I_H_nYQ-OWAlfcE27fd1hRjrDL49mudi67KTk81FB6-ekD_NmvTMDGVvUMXWJIlKzurWycJdbu9cSdy4lMCec8W5RL/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2038%2037%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtHqxSMclTGYiLtjRoJ2KfYXc3GdI5TCG6WaOmNDsx82uQ2QuT4nkbo6DpXFluatF_6IgIIvCBrxmRKvcPZOlp0JT29WYL54I_H_nYQ-OWAlfcE27fd1hRjrDL49mudi67KTk81FB6-ekD_NmvTMDGVvUMXWJIlKzurWycJdbu9cSdy4lMCec8W5RL/w400-h300/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2038%2037%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sea of grass</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0QUfgKdHC_csV-rSRbmDfBkd3DZBft5awG-0X7GHNiW86fycZh5UcEKNU2Lb-hT9iJcnqF0lGh2GtTsfPGnjBv_pNCUX6psiGvVIGUY7CshWqNJNUI4K5Y3kWGDer4OEmOV5PzkRx6404CrrYsz10S5KnUhuVhjk0chPjldKLhesCYCChuyi81XIx/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2042%2006%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0QUfgKdHC_csV-rSRbmDfBkd3DZBft5awG-0X7GHNiW86fycZh5UcEKNU2Lb-hT9iJcnqF0lGh2GtTsfPGnjBv_pNCUX6psiGvVIGUY7CshWqNJNUI4K5Y3kWGDer4OEmOV5PzkRx6404CrrYsz10S5KnUhuVhjk0chPjldKLhesCYCChuyi81XIx/w400-h300/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2042%2006%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thousands of fossils were retrieved</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDK9g0zJ--7i4my5mn_bWYBij91Dv3AQEHCrD4oGQFmqZAS5P3A4cgSomFd1OgExwetSqG7QQydn4iLcdPZW99vobpcP4yvQEyMobfRg7-yOCmycagusgQfu40qAIhDUAQ3Nkqne2iQM9hnLOlmrTTCSTDfiG4lLAm0NP-YdIvdbmPHwVcuoUtlP-/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2044%2023%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDK9g0zJ--7i4my5mn_bWYBij91Dv3AQEHCrD4oGQFmqZAS5P3A4cgSomFd1OgExwetSqG7QQydn4iLcdPZW99vobpcP4yvQEyMobfRg7-yOCmycagusgQfu40qAIhDUAQ3Nkqne2iQM9hnLOlmrTTCSTDfiG4lLAm0NP-YdIvdbmPHwVcuoUtlP-/w400-h300/Photo%20Jul%2002,%204%2044%2023%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Erosion revealed the bones</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6C1rJeJM3518kUgmbMQ9hkTJnf8qWhHTRnvsBk2bwWkZxtmWFrJhiraol6W52aK8IYi0avse_osEqPuxT7bsNC3MIyDh-7S-mCgofHmGUyxCSNuwv4yYILApC7cNODrdRJkUqSuILI2-9tJUlbmQXAGcd4sCyULVdYIAW0tfFQHekO6yQL1qVHH_/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%205%2002%2046%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6C1rJeJM3518kUgmbMQ9hkTJnf8qWhHTRnvsBk2bwWkZxtmWFrJhiraol6W52aK8IYi0avse_osEqPuxT7bsNC3MIyDh-7S-mCgofHmGUyxCSNuwv4yYILApC7cNODrdRJkUqSuILI2-9tJUlbmQXAGcd4sCyULVdYIAW0tfFQHekO6yQL1qVHH_/w400-h300/Photo%20Jul%2002,%205%2002%2046%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unsurpassed beauty</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho50GMc7wPfKocHRxUFUoOw-n6moFtU3B0L65J6YKBuD7U0pYzvuDPw-WXKswXTd8NumB5qZhxlT_4P3y4T6y6c60ZkhjpQJnB3W_wrAa4i4fcTAvXW9ojfWcoU2CAvBvfyEQSUhfKy6mx8nH6cGuwFkMJyGaDp7Wej5JrMyBb7DFvgpiZHLgRVjpB/s1600/Photo%20Jul%2002,%205%2002%2054%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho50GMc7wPfKocHRxUFUoOw-n6moFtU3B0L65J6YKBuD7U0pYzvuDPw-WXKswXTd8NumB5qZhxlT_4P3y4T6y6c60ZkhjpQJnB3W_wrAa4i4fcTAvXW9ojfWcoU2CAvBvfyEQSUhfKy6mx8nH6cGuwFkMJyGaDp7Wej5JrMyBb7DFvgpiZHLgRVjpB/w400-h300/Photo%20Jul%2002,%205%2002%2054%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Land that time forgot</td></tr></tbody></table>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-68013567565631742922022-07-18T18:33:00.000-06:002022-07-18T18:33:53.421-06:00San Antonio Riverwalk - A Historic Oasis<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHigYYgmiDJSAWxqP3aIW6C25aTzicuC_nxex8YxokdW6wcp98kbs8qbNPwDve4xKMxTLM33NHqjO-hcD5_WgqAAdeAKJVeK4KBmycLT6vyl4UG89vZWnvzcyPTEiSEOXHOOTgnKWIt_KoPzDMMRcd1AsboXvB13M3SBpwW6-kVZmjmRikprGfYlMw/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2014,%201%2014%2006%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHigYYgmiDJSAWxqP3aIW6C25aTzicuC_nxex8YxokdW6wcp98kbs8qbNPwDve4xKMxTLM33NHqjO-hcD5_WgqAAdeAKJVeK4KBmycLT6vyl4UG89vZWnvzcyPTEiSEOXHOOTgnKWIt_KoPzDMMRcd1AsboXvB13M3SBpwW6-kVZmjmRikprGfYlMw/w640-h480/Photo%20Jun%2014,%201%2014%2006%20PM.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">San Antonio Riverwalk</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Summer in south Texas is sweltering but if your looking for respite from the brutal heat, the Riverwalk in San Antonio is a historic oasis. The vibrant town center is a melting pot of diverse history, culture and cuisine.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Man-made canals branch off from the main stream creating a labyrinth of narrow passageways that circulate through the district. Picturesque bridges built in creative shapes and sizes span the water at convenient intervals.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Situated below street level, the tributary flows past shops, restaurants and galleries, offering something for everyone. Statues stand above gardens of exotic flora, filling alcoves that appear at every bend.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Steamy mornings on the path are bathed in hazy light and the creek, reflecting the surrounding foliage, is colored green. As the day warms up, the search for shade begins so the buildings’ shadows become comfortable breezeways.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The architecture encompassing the area is a curious blend of old and new as glittering superstructures are interspersed with antique churches and cabins. The most fascinating of these being the Alamo, an undisputed icon of the American frontier.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The somber evenings gradually get more lively after dark when revelers party well into the night. Even at this late hour, a trail of ambient lighting leads the weary tourists through alleyways back to their rooms.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The arduous journey through some of the most remote territory in the United States was worth the effort in order to reach such a unique destination. The activities and excursions enjoyed during a visit to the Lone Star Republic will always be remembered.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LqXbrXeYXWUsbyiV3rjlZk3-_rMUUIWvEffJYYVsufURN9ZaKjovtEL_iDU6afvfXek6t_OuiP86sizS2vAIGmIrsvEMD5h-cvYpqIaQJPXdftqZcjK9nP8m6YAt5h4CHxtnXY8fJoVxCb2wTzVZCtmKti4gH7CKjUFwLj5RUCkv7TG_uLOnBzRX/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2012,%201%2037%2053%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LqXbrXeYXWUsbyiV3rjlZk3-_rMUUIWvEffJYYVsufURN9ZaKjovtEL_iDU6afvfXek6t_OuiP86sizS2vAIGmIrsvEMD5h-cvYpqIaQJPXdftqZcjK9nP8m6YAt5h4CHxtnXY8fJoVxCb2wTzVZCtmKti4gH7CKjUFwLj5RUCkv7TG_uLOnBzRX/w400-h300/Photo%20Jun%2012,%201%2037%2053%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A historic oasis</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyDDnNQvkRn6XPGNC0IEcgRxuPGjOeOPj4c1JBBd6RKdmZBckINY3Qhxf9WDFBV6er92mK4mVDdNZ6_bm6Q1XuWT41Phi5iXVWkcrFdtint7cJoAYP5axlzQiCw5aFn5FFWhWD7YRMQMZlXtcyM69b3qEuhrmY2T3C8AnarRZTpqIsUNLz-vmEEheO/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2014,%201%2008%2037%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyDDnNQvkRn6XPGNC0IEcgRxuPGjOeOPj4c1JBBd6RKdmZBckINY3Qhxf9WDFBV6er92mK4mVDdNZ6_bm6Q1XuWT41Phi5iXVWkcrFdtint7cJoAYP5axlzQiCw5aFn5FFWhWD7YRMQMZlXtcyM69b3qEuhrmY2T3C8AnarRZTpqIsUNLz-vmEEheO/w300-h400/Photo%20Jun%2014,%201%2008%2037%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Statue of San Antonio</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhquo7gojTnPRZAKDeVfe0B5RlKuKKplLn9DxrbgcfyfQnvuiFOyfI_dXf4R41F1TZIeXnWasKkAwz5ziQ1_RwEuWZTcashSuJaavmyW3yAz5oiPr4WucuQE7ynhupricMvClhXrbyvBfdwY21pDQMZrrEWcAspmeU5fo1h_v5Yl2X3eTIbMiut8wcn/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2008%2058%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhquo7gojTnPRZAKDeVfe0B5RlKuKKplLn9DxrbgcfyfQnvuiFOyfI_dXf4R41F1TZIeXnWasKkAwz5ziQ1_RwEuWZTcashSuJaavmyW3yAz5oiPr4WucuQE7ynhupricMvClhXrbyvBfdwY21pDQMZrrEWcAspmeU5fo1h_v5Yl2X3eTIbMiut8wcn/w400-h300/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2008%2058%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morning on the path</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSs5Oqj5BPFcjS7eEcZRpnsj6qfzC2H7nwpv0prEa6ptx1M22klohN757tH9Wwg9GxIUIscvfaQxXulA5d_FodDHPeTmCeesZ-0ISYuDM_v7owNeaYoaHD82Dx9UtUkOMGmDcnm9Am31Sf8CVD5vk83uGvTNwshlK4EHTl_JkYF2BlxYe31Y_XR_sf/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2018%2016%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSs5Oqj5BPFcjS7eEcZRpnsj6qfzC2H7nwpv0prEa6ptx1M22klohN757tH9Wwg9GxIUIscvfaQxXulA5d_FodDHPeTmCeesZ-0ISYuDM_v7owNeaYoaHD82Dx9UtUkOMGmDcnm9Am31Sf8CVD5vk83uGvTNwshlK4EHTl_JkYF2BlxYe31Y_XR_sf/w400-h300/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2018%2016%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hazy light</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipwOPiX9BKMg25adTyzygZAZti0xvpo45JFW1SrIqxuRZs571P7TYRh6I5H8zP845pkn7c-jMFx0cwcp7odCBj-s-vYfub5oA-EMVJnp0Ajezikr4bvOonVPhAGjXq8eSk4nrl7yb9p-PTXx0fRTOo7VEiSwu-JjdGT0BROun__AW0_ebHAnpARx0Y/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2028%2010%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipwOPiX9BKMg25adTyzygZAZti0xvpo45JFW1SrIqxuRZs571P7TYRh6I5H8zP845pkn7c-jMFx0cwcp7odCBj-s-vYfub5oA-EMVJnp0Ajezikr4bvOonVPhAGjXq8eSk4nrl7yb9p-PTXx0fRTOo7VEiSwu-JjdGT0BROun__AW0_ebHAnpARx0Y/w400-h300/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2028%2010%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Somber evenings</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qTSm5sPNtqvWz7eyBWuyBGZ3w74wC4DHkXzJkr59NelMPrM31aysqH1CxSdlqhRybEuRAWtAaoTHxiRzga5FEzFNfYdgOu4Yavc0trRsdzXzZtrWJDR_57MzS_ovyaFLyBDXD5AdwMRLZDLRcZUEdKwqPWsWIZO1fgnDqEHl9uoGSarPEnIPIDv2/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2016,%2011%2052%2046%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4qTSm5sPNtqvWz7eyBWuyBGZ3w74wC4DHkXzJkr59NelMPrM31aysqH1CxSdlqhRybEuRAWtAaoTHxiRzga5FEzFNfYdgOu4Yavc0trRsdzXzZtrWJDR_57MzS_ovyaFLyBDXD5AdwMRLZDLRcZUEdKwqPWsWIZO1fgnDqEHl9uoGSarPEnIPIDv2/w300-h400/Photo%20Jun%2016,%2011%2052%2046%20AM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small churches</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd59DrTPw4UJWrnQcJ4v3qxvtXhG3QLXT8xNWutszGj0pIeBGIh5m5GC-BJkyltv3N5-3-CTAM-vghSO4a80vXkre7hray0upI7lHiW713rPMRMpL61y4pmL2e7OaLBw5I_fFnOSFMCMKuWgowDET2RYMO2PFwXGVpkmyEKrJexNUZcT4CgPztUZcB/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2016,%205%2004%2004%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd59DrTPw4UJWrnQcJ4v3qxvtXhG3QLXT8xNWutszGj0pIeBGIh5m5GC-BJkyltv3N5-3-CTAM-vghSO4a80vXkre7hray0upI7lHiW713rPMRMpL61y4pmL2e7OaLBw5I_fFnOSFMCMKuWgowDET2RYMO2PFwXGVpkmyEKrJexNUZcT4CgPztUZcB/w400-h300/Photo%20Jun%2016,%205%2004%2004%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exotic flora</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisvnfgPr4drupBTuQnHta8_YiKTmB-WQyTtrp07EQqxpyMnqGErvg-sOMYAvJczzticJo3bT9FXmD6fpmlQ2mhHvrmrq3RxeX4yOEdLmhhoZvvAFd7tmzLI_e0bwx9B50BNUrD3xBMfaH1iN4DaqXbJzyUTbCTSZzLHV89p0LU5aXTFbHFQmcu4c01/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2016,%203%2057%2029%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisvnfgPr4drupBTuQnHta8_YiKTmB-WQyTtrp07EQqxpyMnqGErvg-sOMYAvJczzticJo3bT9FXmD6fpmlQ2mhHvrmrq3RxeX4yOEdLmhhoZvvAFd7tmzLI_e0bwx9B50BNUrD3xBMfaH1iN4DaqXbJzyUTbCTSZzLHV89p0LU5aXTFbHFQmcu4c01/w300-h400/Photo%20Jun%2016,%203%2057%2029%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Modern architecture</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsv0Dob1Nf3eFiY8oM40oZ9-ai9olGq9n2vBXUGzrXxNsYxvewQJTkDGHs9KC0MkLwE7z4jyDG15FXpAz2XxWnLWk8L4JdsPG5Kiq5sWv5-O2Q_NGtMcVskVpu28kL2mZx66b2yhvTO-s9CT5wv4u_EVj6Cbs5Qjk85Sjasjz7b4OSwQdJYKv3DgXh/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2046%2029%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsv0Dob1Nf3eFiY8oM40oZ9-ai9olGq9n2vBXUGzrXxNsYxvewQJTkDGHs9KC0MkLwE7z4jyDG15FXpAz2XxWnLWk8L4JdsPG5Kiq5sWv5-O2Q_NGtMcVskVpu28kL2mZx66b2yhvTO-s9CT5wv4u_EVj6Cbs5Qjk85Sjasjz7b4OSwQdJYKv3DgXh/w300-h400/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2046%2029%20AM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Below street level</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5T-XsrzMhgxdhBQf_2VcMWTc3qGHCSE31fyym7mRnj7_wLyqOTHWzjgY2g8P9rg5aN-OeF8A5YimUaFcSNSXbKrGtKDsgCqD6bOQ7fEI21Gawt6Mdgzj0nXlRPkiY_Bdnw-knpYimw2PGQczuOoETfzXU-91lyMlzaHxyOJ-CSrA9V-by1l_SJZZ/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2034%2041%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx5T-XsrzMhgxdhBQf_2VcMWTc3qGHCSE31fyym7mRnj7_wLyqOTHWzjgY2g8P9rg5aN-OeF8A5YimUaFcSNSXbKrGtKDsgCqD6bOQ7fEI21Gawt6Mdgzj0nXlRPkiY_Bdnw-knpYimw2PGQczuOoETfzXU-91lyMlzaHxyOJ-CSrA9V-by1l_SJZZ/w400-h300/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2034%2041%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water reflects the green foliage</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2aysekGde-1740sl540wBRJSGRk3BvsKPetiXiNDSh5d_wUrjb2AIZfR4QPHehn5n5T0zZby007SGjRnzfPdfkcAa7KJwaa4MWjQJB05iXiVvQLqz63BUthaa7D8uxi0qP24jek5M6POeKExQ2JguX6D0FBWyoQpDpq3Hl7YN-2TDgkDnl4AJyvC9/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2028%2050%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2aysekGde-1740sl540wBRJSGRk3BvsKPetiXiNDSh5d_wUrjb2AIZfR4QPHehn5n5T0zZby007SGjRnzfPdfkcAa7KJwaa4MWjQJB05iXiVvQLqz63BUthaa7D8uxi0qP24jek5M6POeKExQ2JguX6D0FBWyoQpDpq3Hl7YN-2TDgkDnl4AJyvC9/w400-h300/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2028%2050%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picturesque bridges</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTAsHLtykED-d3TaMNzURt0WKtOWtyVMIcRSJQt0hL2dMzJ3kD7qv9ft9VmhTG-XCpEq8R90Fu0AnP9rsrQ1CXR0iAXAUUE4SS7q8IBvzCzhmRqFxoaU-Jj6hoOAbznLKvqIVZF61s8MFILhr-WMxGaN2Ey4-zZExaquYTE_PRIfNRCLVVHHhGz2nk/s1600/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2050%2007%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTAsHLtykED-d3TaMNzURt0WKtOWtyVMIcRSJQt0hL2dMzJ3kD7qv9ft9VmhTG-XCpEq8R90Fu0AnP9rsrQ1CXR0iAXAUUE4SS7q8IBvzCzhmRqFxoaU-Jj6hoOAbznLKvqIVZF61s8MFILhr-WMxGaN2Ey4-zZExaquYTE_PRIfNRCLVVHHhGz2nk/w300-h400/Photo%20Jun%2015,%208%2050%2007%20AM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Texas will always be remembered</td></tr></tbody></table>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-38263754201957461332022-06-27T19:45:00.000-06:002022-06-27T19:45:56.476-06:00Desert Gateway - Colored Pencil Drawing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQQQReu4Ye8z4Pqp2Z4RlWxOyXaRm9qDSL4JMkrMQz9WTeTf7xOkbd2p7-dv4s3Szg6PYjMSpMJZhzHW0IHfd_Quz3eJkRaf9r-B2yzgCxA4U6iTmFF2OJmJyAaDV9gNYtI7D0Pyomp63VuLIPOaY_ZkC4_3p47VokqQZo_HaeHIkqs0ykhUx_H_Mf/s1600/DesertGateway.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="982" data-original-width="1600" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQQQReu4Ye8z4Pqp2Z4RlWxOyXaRm9qDSL4JMkrMQz9WTeTf7xOkbd2p7-dv4s3Szg6PYjMSpMJZhzHW0IHfd_Quz3eJkRaf9r-B2yzgCxA4U6iTmFF2OJmJyAaDV9gNYtI7D0Pyomp63VuLIPOaY_ZkC4_3p47VokqQZo_HaeHIkqs0ykhUx_H_Mf/w640-h392/DesertGateway.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Desert Gateway" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Offering sanctuary from the furnace of sweltering heat, a chain of blue mountains streaks across the background of a fiery landscape. The desolate environment is stark, harsh and lonely.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Despite its beauty, the desert is a brutal place that can bring your demise at any moment. Not only is the severe climate and rugged terrain a problem but a sudden snake bite can be deadly.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The wide open space is broken by terraces of escarpment that appear more red as they recede. Applied with precision, smooth gradations mask the rugged nature of this rocky netherworld.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The bleached shelf in the foreground is bathed in a bright yellow made even more vibrant by the violet shadows. Yet, the most shocking aspect is the shimmering sulphur sky that results from a mid-summer sun.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">This non-naturalistic expression is not designed to display superficial accuracy. The arid plateau is too straightforward to tether with complicated details so a more symbolic approach is necessary.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Protruding from a broad ridge, an extraordinary portal to the mountains beckons the lost soul to come closer. This desert gateway is delicately chiseled out of crimson-colored sandstone.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">A fine example of natural architecture, the maroon doorway allows passage from this plane of existence to the mountainous region in the next. A lofty realm brimming with cool air, clear water and lush gardens awaits.</p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-78827455473197585682022-06-04T16:26:00.000-06:002022-06-04T16:26:04.848-06:00Summer Snowstorm - A Startling Rebellion<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNMrxdkrngP2x7UhOaLA5raCD8ClC3iY30RYzHEdkvcNg-j0W2nmfM9uSJFsvXZ7omMv07r1ABYO3ABqEP8aG8eGjJutSpOjhAa1UTLu6uXpKwNNAd9WPWtuvRcrnYqOahZX5xisbkRD-zGaMgdjPAmbrKIAzzzVQ0M5H2N_MRtN_-uuwFBTnMAHo_/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2012%2038%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNMrxdkrngP2x7UhOaLA5raCD8ClC3iY30RYzHEdkvcNg-j0W2nmfM9uSJFsvXZ7omMv07r1ABYO3ABqEP8aG8eGjJutSpOjhAa1UTLu6uXpKwNNAd9WPWtuvRcrnYqOahZX5xisbkRD-zGaMgdjPAmbrKIAzzzVQ0M5H2N_MRtN_-uuwFBTnMAHo_/w640-h480/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2012%2038%20PM.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer Snowstorm</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">After about a week of warmer weather, summer’s first glimmer was promptly extinguished by winter’s last gasp. The cold front swirled into the area disrupting the local inhabitants’ annual activities.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">It was just days before the unofficial start to summer when an intransigent snowstorm pummeled the foothills into a deep freeze. The startling weather rebellion was a dramatic turn of events that shocked the unsuspecting ecosystem.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The sturdy pine trees were cemented with a plaster of heavy, wet snow, bending limbs almost to their breaking point. The greening meadows were buried under immense drifts that swelled like waves in a great, white sea.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Down at the recently thawed lake, the black water contrasted sharply with the frosted marshland. The fresh inkwell captured faithful reflections of the entombed valley’s stark beauty.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Low hanging clouds skimmed across the summits of background peaks creating an imposing atmosphere. The intimidating effect conjured by the surreal scene was tempered by a veil of glossy mist.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">An aura of down-hearted light permeated the somber landscape infusing compositions with an icy vignette. The tranquility associated with the aftermath of such a storm was an invitation to endure its hostility.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">A brisk wind and bitter cold only added more discomfort to this unusual grievance. I was convinced that the possibility of more snow didn’t exist but the resiliency of winter in the mountains has proved me wrong, again.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFyAva-n4DZNWNWWeiipK7C3LnF_PxCE2jOPUTnda0NH2UmmaSqsSPaYrLgidpGqWwFC7JsybyUW4lT4-4nxEb4CmJiESNCq00CcQuXjT0DVBKoWD6t5PZlTLwl92FwgLR59ypVPjwZB1snoolx7X7JMDs8JdIh-WmM1szKVOhVEDGetaP_0DLbjR/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2011%2038%2006%20AM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHFyAva-n4DZNWNWWeiipK7C3LnF_PxCE2jOPUTnda0NH2UmmaSqsSPaYrLgidpGqWwFC7JsybyUW4lT4-4nxEb4CmJiESNCq00CcQuXjT0DVBKoWD6t5PZlTLwl92FwgLR59ypVPjwZB1snoolx7X7JMDs8JdIh-WmM1szKVOhVEDGetaP_0DLbjR/w400-h300/Photo%20May%2021,%2011%2038%2006%20AM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Winter's last gasp</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF_-HCSBdLelFjoumvstylcp21qOuIDRyH6M0Uojq9A771KaD8p9chVmwXGULxOdY8qBYvkgm7fBmTYfa7nJaVQWBBnpHLpC9gKWvir0tG-5ZgdrWmijCKCJ539aKYjJq0lCXr0Glw7X8xcipkXNXvu6t4cEYjzyFVSFMvDHiyEJNFpYcdm7JbINNE/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2005%2000%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1297" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF_-HCSBdLelFjoumvstylcp21qOuIDRyH6M0Uojq9A771KaD8p9chVmwXGULxOdY8qBYvkgm7fBmTYfa7nJaVQWBBnpHLpC9gKWvir0tG-5ZgdrWmijCKCJ539aKYjJq0lCXr0Glw7X8xcipkXNXvu6t4cEYjzyFVSFMvDHiyEJNFpYcdm7JbINNE/w324-h400/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2005%2000%20PM.jpeg" width="324" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A cold front swirled in</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_lCviCREJ47XSLPMApYfLmqBpPdLaauwNR8Z8hPhQBBBBiYRSaOjUyXe4hM-qPLspZ9_LXx2dE0Mt870J3PapNJ28prU0yphBrBjI01AtzDDbvedXVK3Ob0M0A6Ao03za3Iqr8DNoQHauqLnArL231Y8OOTCS40n7ANAwvmXipKX_inlWXapu7981/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2019%2020%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_lCviCREJ47XSLPMApYfLmqBpPdLaauwNR8Z8hPhQBBBBiYRSaOjUyXe4hM-qPLspZ9_LXx2dE0Mt870J3PapNJ28prU0yphBrBjI01AtzDDbvedXVK3Ob0M0A6Ao03za3Iqr8DNoQHauqLnArL231Y8OOTCS40n7ANAwvmXipKX_inlWXapu7981/w400-h300/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2019%2020%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A startling rebellion</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy01OxX3TLvMBsCvCik0mkXXgVVqJ6DOLB7Glu2xHUisqv40azRfLLs8bvYpJnuzN-Ua6rcb7bUDR5gzU6hTg7FPPvumm9WWf0csXSTvy76jQP7mJjT8LjQTQiXkbcGoe_PG7RBXygphOTp25P_WXbJHcjQOUw7IL7gfC0gAhwMhrPqAGljI21Anw4/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2019%2059%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy01OxX3TLvMBsCvCik0mkXXgVVqJ6DOLB7Glu2xHUisqv40azRfLLs8bvYpJnuzN-Ua6rcb7bUDR5gzU6hTg7FPPvumm9WWf0csXSTvy76jQP7mJjT8LjQTQiXkbcGoe_PG7RBXygphOTp25P_WXbJHcjQOUw7IL7gfC0gAhwMhrPqAGljI21Anw4/w400-h300/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2019%2059%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A deep freeze</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqFCQvP0bedoReS1ipPrTNJJjJms2Bgc3bG0hwXuWu-e6bpglMaLoQWYkfgCTPUGfBM3nAgWAHBuo316Z3qumCS9ATC5utWLDs9TZRfTwwQy0x_-O29WUJxuXv79dyg1a_LwL38m1QVfgFUPZwg9u3d5MTbDfVvWKuC_PkECgm3lDs_qsxmFEhGMdT/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2021%2054%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqFCQvP0bedoReS1ipPrTNJJjJms2Bgc3bG0hwXuWu-e6bpglMaLoQWYkfgCTPUGfBM3nAgWAHBuo316Z3qumCS9ATC5utWLDs9TZRfTwwQy0x_-O29WUJxuXv79dyg1a_LwL38m1QVfgFUPZwg9u3d5MTbDfVvWKuC_PkECgm3lDs_qsxmFEhGMdT/w400-h300/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2021%2054%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A snowstorm pummeled the foothills</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPf5SFrZ3BfnlsIlua-JZkLljaRfNQrTjeXTGas-Pi9zq4m8G_oljxpeJu43L1tiTWu_5AseQJyuzWQd7taefPZfbGO_DXNg4i0eCrErvPC1HjBKn5V_8Cwv9bBzsL8V0D5i84MtZbJgyvYKZ1e1fvRy58NOvwDqK7jpBb0C2mqkf9QJ6ZXhBycObC/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2022%2023%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPf5SFrZ3BfnlsIlua-JZkLljaRfNQrTjeXTGas-Pi9zq4m8G_oljxpeJu43L1tiTWu_5AseQJyuzWQd7taefPZfbGO_DXNg4i0eCrErvPC1HjBKn5V_8Cwv9bBzsL8V0D5i84MtZbJgyvYKZ1e1fvRy58NOvwDqK7jpBb0C2mqkf9QJ6ZXhBycObC/w400-h300/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2022%2023%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fresh inkwell</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRGfwn9iAc7B-0QpezzcovgFOG9aCNAAGTfxXFCvNlKz_fv5qrZCatJAyxeyoU3ZkuFDTt42sIlW5vum4gZcKM6x7v4ynFAsusTsr-LUreeoBTY9yRR6Nu0QqGoJjyQOatVb8DA1f5jilWjmJFOCUEN8KGkbByAinaMrQhYCuSzJhswmahK0yIR6N/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2025%2013%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRGfwn9iAc7B-0QpezzcovgFOG9aCNAAGTfxXFCvNlKz_fv5qrZCatJAyxeyoU3ZkuFDTt42sIlW5vum4gZcKM6x7v4ynFAsusTsr-LUreeoBTY9yRR6Nu0QqGoJjyQOatVb8DA1f5jilWjmJFOCUEN8KGkbByAinaMrQhYCuSzJhswmahK0yIR6N/w400-h300/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2025%2013%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Down-hearted light</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTdlgXbecYbAcAOSxwcjX4HzlxW9RWSUrDUpaz-NSwvGfrIMArdgixolOckLsXQ1s9iLOutc120RLEQ2JInZvYUOWp-yKehfy8yhv0W4ixUwE1NgDeTeXu-0IAFJN9X5uBzXCF3hoE7gv3bVvVEFYj2GsKc2y9vajqwCKGPDcWKwQoGZhQVrjQBbm/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2026%2059%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTdlgXbecYbAcAOSxwcjX4HzlxW9RWSUrDUpaz-NSwvGfrIMArdgixolOckLsXQ1s9iLOutc120RLEQ2JInZvYUOWp-yKehfy8yhv0W4ixUwE1NgDeTeXu-0IAFJN9X5uBzXCF3hoE7gv3bVvVEFYj2GsKc2y9vajqwCKGPDcWKwQoGZhQVrjQBbm/w400-h300/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2026%2059%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A frosted marshland</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdsU2HMVT1xNUYGqMoF7iSFmYaXdsXJ3egZqF80CcILaODHL_C--Eun6CbFLNPJBOB62xFPUeNKpssclJFJ--4AJotjtTu7T_8WJ6M3xcXsV0ZZUaMpDkYjs-XX5j2evgC_3fUZiE8KyEMC1wN2TQbVs7a-zI3Quvkl8QniJ40yHNT_5dpogb0gWFt/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2029%2043%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdsU2HMVT1xNUYGqMoF7iSFmYaXdsXJ3egZqF80CcILaODHL_C--Eun6CbFLNPJBOB62xFPUeNKpssclJFJ--4AJotjtTu7T_8WJ6M3xcXsV0ZZUaMpDkYjs-XX5j2evgC_3fUZiE8KyEMC1wN2TQbVs7a-zI3Quvkl8QniJ40yHNT_5dpogb0gWFt/w400-h300/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2029%2043%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Low hanging clouds skimmed across summits</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoRZPPrTLu8ecF1_LKqdMAZo5rEBNNqacp5cd69W4q0snB7Epj6Z8TvLp8narCoV8QRiHNhVX3lQvov9oAXXjw_LumEHNoOniyTQ4AyyeGxdxPtJukLCeoHV6IPlbG4WHe3qYMRUe7T4DX0Cge1vwG2zthhgO40y-xrIFuLJnMZsUuehM02nR8Hkf/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2038%2014%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqoRZPPrTLu8ecF1_LKqdMAZo5rEBNNqacp5cd69W4q0snB7Epj6Z8TvLp8narCoV8QRiHNhVX3lQvov9oAXXjw_LumEHNoOniyTQ4AyyeGxdxPtJukLCeoHV6IPlbG4WHe3qYMRUe7T4DX0Cge1vwG2zthhgO40y-xrIFuLJnMZsUuehM02nR8Hkf/w400-h225/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2038%2014%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The valley's stark beauty</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwCYRdpSyBgh65rjJzM-gonuo3j26AOVyhr8-h8yyuwHtVAr1DZmkkxzB9ufsYEjSXf0R6viQRF6Um7X3ymufQZ922tnjDlU_ilOm0qKVr_yLN1_71kT50pVUsntP_zpef1g0Ytr7c9kUbTXOcHBzwEW2sYNAl83Ccju_FDI30I8MqTcYm2Tmqm2MG/s1600/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2047%2051%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwCYRdpSyBgh65rjJzM-gonuo3j26AOVyhr8-h8yyuwHtVAr1DZmkkxzB9ufsYEjSXf0R6viQRF6Um7X3ymufQZ922tnjDlU_ilOm0qKVr_yLN1_71kT50pVUsntP_zpef1g0Ytr7c9kUbTXOcHBzwEW2sYNAl83Ccju_FDI30I8MqTcYm2Tmqm2MG/w400-h300/Photo%20May%2021,%2012%2047%2051%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The resiliency of winter</td></tr></tbody></table>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-46524604881735441762022-05-22T16:28:00.001-06:002022-05-22T16:28:28.104-06:00Early Spring Evergreen -A Great Blue Evening<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWw2dA4PnwtJi6SvVbmzpBW4q7ha7HVEvHUuqtqOjt88N4QBy0qyCklexM5yi89aN3iuW3d-oxCbY3Ze2jWfZ25aHik16rhkQiZDxPmkMyU95cC3nOLZUa0nIweezNr-zNyND49jwEyLUy5nZaAgt69lKzxzBNsWq-loswePZFdRwK8SuVhVQH2h31/s1600/Photo%20May%2007,%207%2015%2037%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWw2dA4PnwtJi6SvVbmzpBW4q7ha7HVEvHUuqtqOjt88N4QBy0qyCklexM5yi89aN3iuW3d-oxCbY3Ze2jWfZ25aHik16rhkQiZDxPmkMyU95cC3nOLZUa0nIweezNr-zNyND49jwEyLUy5nZaAgt69lKzxzBNsWq-loswePZFdRwK8SuVhVQH2h31/w640-h426/Photo%20May%2007,%207%2015%2037%20PM.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Early Spring Evergreen</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Erected along the grassy shoreline, a statuesque heron hunts discreetly in the evening light. The virtuous, great blue displays extraordinary patience while stalking prey in the muddy shallows.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">It’s barely spring at Evergreen Lake so there’s not much activity except for an occasional ruckus raised by the red-wings. While I was in the vicinity, I never witnessed the great blue take a stab at anything edible so I hope she wasn’t overly famished.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Crumpled under heavy snow for most of the winter, the dusky marshland is slowly creeping back to life. Most of the barren trees are just now starting to sprout buds at the tips of their limber branches.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The surrounding mountains are impressive as ever after shedding their white blanket. The ring of high hills creates a sequestered valley enclosing an Edenic landscape bursting with both flora and fauna.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Because of the dramatic cloud cover, fading rays of sunshine strike the slopes at unusual angles. The peaks appear to glow, creating an inviting ambiance that hasn’t been experienced in months.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">It’s getting late and as the hour slips into the blue, that heron is still frozen in place but now she’s almost imperceptible in the dark. After such a long time trudging through deep snow, it’s nice to meander on firm ground and rediscover the lake during its annual resurrection.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgykZDon8S1rUzkDJJw2tTeoyWs46uQyV176-QTN7cEGW5JQ6NFWC55AJAdtqjmrpl1ieERouXtcuFj542ifhG-61t8J42iNy5SfzY6rbrIABw-NztveEvegmL37A0rLEqooDjOrUGEe_XQnyTcjDpx-oIx47BhQq5TWuLV0Yojsnfi9ayA-myYjnuJ/s1600/DSCN7198.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgykZDon8S1rUzkDJJw2tTeoyWs46uQyV176-QTN7cEGW5JQ6NFWC55AJAdtqjmrpl1ieERouXtcuFj542ifhG-61t8J42iNy5SfzY6rbrIABw-NztveEvegmL37A0rLEqooDjOrUGEe_XQnyTcjDpx-oIx47BhQq5TWuLV0Yojsnfi9ayA-myYjnuJ/w400-h240/DSCN7198.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stalking prey in the shallows</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabkXr2-M88lm_CevXxdLOPshkG_xaWS2MtJQ_K7_9EBhw2o2TnrvhXNFHOwfs3FmS5C4fdyT13lFkskDUOJ9b6wYdERKF4VVv3yJeBQYKQEDZ4kHOkH_T07ab2ZDyls9_d1_Fu6Y5xdrFwzSSu5DUBrlRMR3R5ysP-Q3zlnNoH0xNayQQefq6UVxf/s1600/DSCN7206.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiabkXr2-M88lm_CevXxdLOPshkG_xaWS2MtJQ_K7_9EBhw2o2TnrvhXNFHOwfs3FmS5C4fdyT13lFkskDUOJ9b6wYdERKF4VVv3yJeBQYKQEDZ4kHOkH_T07ab2ZDyls9_d1_Fu6Y5xdrFwzSSu5DUBrlRMR3R5ysP-Q3zlnNoH0xNayQQefq6UVxf/w400-h225/DSCN7206.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A statuesque heron</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuXEcOON0fIJAdGB9Q7fJE-0co9gW_PXlVh7lVzW8OvrxpOEg1LOXYP8gVdf93XcLs0ehVEvqDwzZfKB7MoQ2ZaDKYLQr2MsaQ3Hm1e-5nfOwmrEyqvtbAXSiP-hDgZYf2SLpCxZb4qiylPEcjnsBWPUsYHvQ9cxLx1HskeduaulOQsbIqYtGtInj/s1600/DSCN7210.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuXEcOON0fIJAdGB9Q7fJE-0co9gW_PXlVh7lVzW8OvrxpOEg1LOXYP8gVdf93XcLs0ehVEvqDwzZfKB7MoQ2ZaDKYLQr2MsaQ3Hm1e-5nfOwmrEyqvtbAXSiP-hDgZYf2SLpCxZb4qiylPEcjnsBWPUsYHvQ9cxLx1HskeduaulOQsbIqYtGtInj/w300-h400/DSCN7210.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hunting discreetly</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72KYfZFkgcFLgW5xGlRA2RQRkiQLGiOXpiDbK35jdcVRGoTPEy-ov_MK0G3vk-9eutH1zq-8GuJF7HeZx-Piz4T473wY73Co3kw-7a6mzXa7tFexl7FNkATddqhH79zfvpPoz1Bfru-l5FPPRwLNN_5CEHK8C8-XF2A-E_OpBLfbMuRRMZuoZ6r79/s1600/DSCN7218.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh72KYfZFkgcFLgW5xGlRA2RQRkiQLGiOXpiDbK35jdcVRGoTPEy-ov_MK0G3vk-9eutH1zq-8GuJF7HeZx-Piz4T473wY73Co3kw-7a6mzXa7tFexl7FNkATddqhH79zfvpPoz1Bfru-l5FPPRwLNN_5CEHK8C8-XF2A-E_OpBLfbMuRRMZuoZ6r79/w400-h300/DSCN7218.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red-wings raise a ruckus</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhErb7SY5P1L1nN1maSP8uYQ_0hqW7ekSSDeg4-py17k4IVzFcTqWLztd1YlVZkZgFpWGFQ-QyzM6IZoCWR2FPdiqoA-1quyrdzL9CB8A8PqzcgGl_sG0gwO7uwE0yLcx3RQh9qA5jCOw7VuCFn3duookvtPy0WgTq0tdFl644bP4FpYvUgcuRFyN5X/s1600/Photo%20May%2007,%206%2049%2047%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhErb7SY5P1L1nN1maSP8uYQ_0hqW7ekSSDeg4-py17k4IVzFcTqWLztd1YlVZkZgFpWGFQ-QyzM6IZoCWR2FPdiqoA-1quyrdzL9CB8A8PqzcgGl_sG0gwO7uwE0yLcx3RQh9qA5jCOw7VuCFn3duookvtPy0WgTq0tdFl644bP4FpYvUgcuRFyN5X/w300-h400/Photo%20May%2007,%206%2049%2047%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An inviting ambiance</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp1VPFb9NWFYN-76BbIXhu4azScEHvdUzKOkJmvzDx0hg5efM3UZhd9-0AwgyVuZhDsnD_CU9n84r0Ic5-iM5zxEn_r72KL6tK0AKQNA9AY5Tgmpgcrq2K-4yvS3x6FO2LUgIsAs7j-OgplmKqVcXkaQPF9BRsZIrTflDoocvY0ERbDeqgeava-KuB/s1600/Photo%20May%2007,%206%2055%2000%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp1VPFb9NWFYN-76BbIXhu4azScEHvdUzKOkJmvzDx0hg5efM3UZhd9-0AwgyVuZhDsnD_CU9n84r0Ic5-iM5zxEn_r72KL6tK0AKQNA9AY5Tgmpgcrq2K-4yvS3x6FO2LUgIsAs7j-OgplmKqVcXkaQPF9BRsZIrTflDoocvY0ERbDeqgeava-KuB/w400-h300/Photo%20May%2007,%206%2055%2000%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trees are still barren</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSj22km-reJmRN8JEYc-kee3P1pUeU7mfoqKTqs8p-Y9sqrjFOttn7ij-9swVU1YrAeONDksu40f0abGadDjCc5AcG5PHVl4Kj8tenVkmoBzB8TY7F3tT_zKTctq5syLKXiIUtvzRwGO_v9LZcNyfGmhdjGXQzHi4_ENNkF8iMQgjMHSpI2o2z0KX2/s1600/Photo%20May%2007,%207%2009%2059%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSj22km-reJmRN8JEYc-kee3P1pUeU7mfoqKTqs8p-Y9sqrjFOttn7ij-9swVU1YrAeONDksu40f0abGadDjCc5AcG5PHVl4Kj8tenVkmoBzB8TY7F3tT_zKTctq5syLKXiIUtvzRwGO_v9LZcNyfGmhdjGXQzHi4_ENNkF8iMQgjMHSpI2o2z0KX2/w400-h240/Photo%20May%2007,%207%2009%2059%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fading rays of sunshine</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeFYG0mIWwo_SuuTx8pY_D7qVqWscKvtTI-zt3TkkOBytP9lInDHBPgdHpJKwJ017wYpP3ZYmkPop_AC33t38UaYy11wOSTtHBiupqek9pX1HAZ-y094VRutcycj0mQfZCLZHsKXZbRobXni_QcB4ALWUPSfBjb1cS-fEzEaMTCvnsEX5qRNYQ4s13/s1600/Photo%20May%2007,%207%2020%2024%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeFYG0mIWwo_SuuTx8pY_D7qVqWscKvtTI-zt3TkkOBytP9lInDHBPgdHpJKwJ017wYpP3ZYmkPop_AC33t38UaYy11wOSTtHBiupqek9pX1HAZ-y094VRutcycj0mQfZCLZHsKXZbRobXni_QcB4ALWUPSfBjb1cS-fEzEaMTCvnsEX5qRNYQ4s13/w400-h225/Photo%20May%2007,%207%2020%2024%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A dusky marshland</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipSfw5ejy1EldqebB1SyOf5xQTmrQCpFtgaujuupHOVTvq9zSwc2Oyyne4N_1tGvU6y9tKx5zAB4WCKKpo_eAZYgKiExCC52GyREwZwSLLAIYH5yxyZvgz57jHoo3vh2HSdng4HbvRfhR1GhBuh5DRx-V0E2wtYsqOPIrGE_jYtxW20J8e7Q7sNUcw/s1600/Photo%20May%2015,%206%2020%2053%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipSfw5ejy1EldqebB1SyOf5xQTmrQCpFtgaujuupHOVTvq9zSwc2Oyyne4N_1tGvU6y9tKx5zAB4WCKKpo_eAZYgKiExCC52GyREwZwSLLAIYH5yxyZvgz57jHoo3vh2HSdng4HbvRfhR1GhBuh5DRx-V0E2wtYsqOPIrGE_jYtxW20J8e7Q7sNUcw/w400-h300/Photo%20May%2015,%206%2020%2053%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An annual resurrection</td></tr></tbody></table></p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-90491641830386260592022-04-30T20:54:00.001-06:002022-04-30T20:54:23.617-06:00As Above, So Below - Colored Pencil Drawing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKcsmS6ht_L29FMdGutSYMIY3ZGkszZT0kI3UMwTWfqO2N_dao5ATg__UBmrxGk6VOe8j9cRYazgjfr23oVgT5NBrgIYZfpESuken4C7bcL6mZ64umW2oOYP6VNhBcbuc6qtyO9-TaWEJaFQ-La4b7lhQOV4Dxp6qii42BJ2Z2biobMTLaRUFTT2C/s1600/As%20Above%20So%20Below.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="985" data-original-width="1600" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjKcsmS6ht_L29FMdGutSYMIY3ZGkszZT0kI3UMwTWfqO2N_dao5ATg__UBmrxGk6VOe8j9cRYazgjfr23oVgT5NBrgIYZfpESuken4C7bcL6mZ64umW2oOYP6VNhBcbuc6qtyO9-TaWEJaFQ-La4b7lhQOV4Dxp6qii42BJ2Z2biobMTLaRUFTT2C/w640-h394/As%20Above%20So%20Below.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"As Above, So Below" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">During winter’s dusk, an infinite field of celestial blue domes the serene landscape. A silky cloud sweeps over the snow-covered summit, conjuring an atmosphere of timeless peace.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">As above, so below, where the sky’s serenity is reflected by the vast expanse of violet pastureland. A few horses graze on the short-grass stubble, evoking a feeling of pure contentment.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Looming over the transcendent valley, jagged peaks engrave a rugged profile out of the gloaming sky. Some last beams of fading light streak across the southern slopes, blending the realm of heaven with earth.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Soon, the constellations will fill the sky with a web of sparkling stars that blaze through the long night. Quilted into the high plain, endless patches of crusted snow melt into the mountain scenery.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The mountains at dusk are a foreboding barrier so sacrificing detail for clarity creates a more ethereal effect. The softer edges ease the tension and enhance the already somber mood.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The mountain tops form a bridge with the firmament creating a gateway to another world where Shangri-La exists. Despite the chaos and confusion of this world, some sanctuaries still survive and this alpine paradise is one of them.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Mapping the connection between the upper and lower realms is an ancient tradition that still influences my work today. Observing the visible overhead and translating its essence on the ground is the mission.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos through acquaintance with nature is an arduous task. It’s impossible to reproduce the eternal but by accepting the challenge, safe passage during the long journey is assured.</p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-52697045269059391822022-04-03T16:54:00.002-06:002022-04-03T16:54:58.124-06:00The Vernal Equinox - More Heavy Snow<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtZ1hTanneHNGqvfZMXh7q7fv3uTI0wMJzZMEP1t-WMbhzDsxuYeD0Tx4YWigPp1Br0RJZIXo9aHoN12oTxKsA6JUJSaEy2FhGr0dfw8MfczGahjgIY1koI1w8oIubSYw_g6EqSv5crfsxvw_-AKY6NMACus4tODzIdOPfFeUjPzZUE3dYMwaQ-WD1/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2025%2028%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtZ1hTanneHNGqvfZMXh7q7fv3uTI0wMJzZMEP1t-WMbhzDsxuYeD0Tx4YWigPp1Br0RJZIXo9aHoN12oTxKsA6JUJSaEy2FhGr0dfw8MfczGahjgIY1koI1w8oIubSYw_g6EqSv5crfsxvw_-AKY6NMACus4tODzIdOPfFeUjPzZUE3dYMwaQ-WD1/w640-h480/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2025%2028%20PM.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The vernal equinox</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Heralding the supposed start of spring, the vernal equinox is marked by more heavy snow. The struggle continues as southern storms wheel into the foothills leaving huge drifts and bitter cold in their wakes.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">As the wet flakes finally stop falling, the pine forest interior is a perfect place to experience the frosty aftermath. Somehow, these defiant trees manage to survive in the difficult climate that defines this area.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Smothered under oppressive clouds, the forest is more silver than gray with hints of color that flicker in rebellious light. The trees are cloaked in an encrusted web of thick snow that binds to the needles like cement.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Limber trunks and branches bow under the immense pressure of excessive weight but they never break. The dark, frozen woodland always seems to bounce back after the elusive blue skies return.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The storm’s dispersal is certain to compose spectacular scenery as the mountain peaks start to jut out of a veil of smoky mist. The warmer air escapes and clear, cold air floods in refreshing the landscape.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The quick-hitting, fast-melting storms that occur this time of year are a precursor to the notorious mud season. The sure signs of transformation are everywhere, confirming that the predictable cycle of nature is right on schedule but it still feels like winter to me.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4xj5M5aSYMHk2prXV62fxuIQHno4jvRS1m0M87siJOmUb9WBdl1XpuK71pQcV4zkobIKI4xJ6_Oc269X035MQck6s3TPFs1IzGZ_Bqzq2JgmBGXOI13jKJpIcz_K_lVoXiviRVdmErasKECC6vPiDC9nrj3Xb2Q5e0So7bR3mPqREOJ3Ayw_J7Te/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2011%2040%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX4xj5M5aSYMHk2prXV62fxuIQHno4jvRS1m0M87siJOmUb9WBdl1XpuK71pQcV4zkobIKI4xJ6_Oc269X035MQck6s3TPFs1IzGZ_Bqzq2JgmBGXOI13jKJpIcz_K_lVoXiviRVdmErasKECC6vPiDC9nrj3Xb2Q5e0So7bR3mPqREOJ3Ayw_J7Te/w400-h300/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2011%2040%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heralding the start of spring</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVKCFcbu-2NWMf405hoPO1YYUDrDP865BnvI0mw9lypA0Xi3SSJYAMRN6rKrPDH9w_SvYxXImf7zuCyemheTHcONdaMrELwEp6NaYwfX3Qepo1THBgnTpV9v_JS-q45xJ5NGbjUFhhV87eJEl6HrFMMRl_xmUg1Sj3na2eNz1AapeBN0RqaNXQDl78/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2014%2051%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVKCFcbu-2NWMf405hoPO1YYUDrDP865BnvI0mw9lypA0Xi3SSJYAMRN6rKrPDH9w_SvYxXImf7zuCyemheTHcONdaMrELwEp6NaYwfX3Qepo1THBgnTpV9v_JS-q45xJ5NGbjUFhhV87eJEl6HrFMMRl_xmUg1Sj3na2eNz1AapeBN0RqaNXQDl78/w300-h400/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2014%2051%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The vernal equinox</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpOQif6ii5rbyfEMgncno8kN0_WxAsi0WrIFMIJxGkUN_BX6NnetFz4mUT3YXUwREft6S1Cb7H3e1wR1Ta95HNiBEYflwfSs_G1OguGZyb4pLUKhYXlk1P5iUuV4EuHDYjIrZFXfwdD8O-t1IOVGcLNd8wYtAqWM1snuvBx-oNk09pX9ftKOUPqEd/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2018%2024%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdpOQif6ii5rbyfEMgncno8kN0_WxAsi0WrIFMIJxGkUN_BX6NnetFz4mUT3YXUwREft6S1Cb7H3e1wR1Ta95HNiBEYflwfSs_G1OguGZyb4pLUKhYXlk1P5iUuV4EuHDYjIrZFXfwdD8O-t1IOVGcLNd8wYtAqWM1snuvBx-oNk09pX9ftKOUPqEd/w300-h400/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2018%2024%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More heavy snow</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH_n0l7Yzko7YXuhLterMZlPSkOg6hKnKHILqwAi5Cm5rMIkM_pr7_bQVnzUWFaz4h9CFaiPKH_ZtZoJdsx25iA0RnM6iAbybWtwkFnwxpYyvh24FvqMrRagZQvk7PRrkQJ24gFiduPRmpL4cHCw79AzU6YdGBMDFzj-4GS6hykD6iub0EUYbu6cGQ/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2018%2055%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH_n0l7Yzko7YXuhLterMZlPSkOg6hKnKHILqwAi5Cm5rMIkM_pr7_bQVnzUWFaz4h9CFaiPKH_ZtZoJdsx25iA0RnM6iAbybWtwkFnwxpYyvh24FvqMrRagZQvk7PRrkQJ24gFiduPRmpL4cHCw79AzU6YdGBMDFzj-4GS6hykD6iub0EUYbu6cGQ/w300-h400/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2018%2055%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Defiant trees</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit-7LRI-5Fm3FF9gOyfIN7BaVJQHv2i7Or0T_u-ruE2hztKZ_lkxAc4lF7tCSypAA1Km-IaMtRjlWuJVlwuK-rXbuQwJKC4eeIk59fhEByP6Ucf9Y0xuUq7Ws_EZPToqbArEbktH3MkQZGfKfWFp6gg0wd8HEDJQqmkQIzd5KyrGcYaDwM1p6hpdmR/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2019%2019%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit-7LRI-5Fm3FF9gOyfIN7BaVJQHv2i7Or0T_u-ruE2hztKZ_lkxAc4lF7tCSypAA1Km-IaMtRjlWuJVlwuK-rXbuQwJKC4eeIk59fhEByP6Ucf9Y0xuUq7Ws_EZPToqbArEbktH3MkQZGfKfWFp6gg0wd8HEDJQqmkQIzd5KyrGcYaDwM1p6hpdmR/w300-h400/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2019%2019%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Under oppressive clouds</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimYQQoC_weZsbISj_H8RAdlMf_pmfhIL7_ZfSobW29YSI5NRIvWO2vEChy0m0be-f5mF72JIA8jA4n4Jg9KtrBCQctpgJmxPwl67GHstUonmOyD5pV0zfsCaWVaqvcfjzupEtNz5IZySYZzHwwq9HmUejp3TPcCNCq0QZPdGB5lHTColFhPexNbIev/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2021%2008%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimYQQoC_weZsbISj_H8RAdlMf_pmfhIL7_ZfSobW29YSI5NRIvWO2vEChy0m0be-f5mF72JIA8jA4n4Jg9KtrBCQctpgJmxPwl67GHstUonmOyD5pV0zfsCaWVaqvcfjzupEtNz5IZySYZzHwwq9HmUejp3TPcCNCq0QZPdGB5lHTColFhPexNbIev/w400-h300/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2021%2008%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A frosty aftermath</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Yb9wb1kBoNf-vsJJy7OFWndJiHxEXpUfzJcWmAvBf3ZkgnkZ5qemxafugj-Adq71EakfIiLi6Pfq6aBO7uL3c4wG7q3PvQPaeKdn4RsTLVeJhMvTH9HW7oztdK3nxZsXy3ksXd5MxB0F3alFUmx33-giqHAhkaV1d2OT6pokWkgrWO9ImJ_b_T-C/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2026%2027%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Yb9wb1kBoNf-vsJJy7OFWndJiHxEXpUfzJcWmAvBf3ZkgnkZ5qemxafugj-Adq71EakfIiLi6Pfq6aBO7uL3c4wG7q3PvQPaeKdn4RsTLVeJhMvTH9HW7oztdK3nxZsXy3ksXd5MxB0F3alFUmx33-giqHAhkaV1d2OT6pokWkgrWO9ImJ_b_T-C/w400-h300/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2026%2027%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hints of color</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3JdRRQqFmx7bdLN32iu6sSx6s9FouQ5IBaYA0VqLsXkcIdtRG5PXOvC-lTJoufC_nVRUObx8Zx0muYBsH1ROW86YsrW5LkVkiFtFlFN0AhRsoN_W33EpPafAgHusXJKzc4V5USB4JItN0gkrDTSZOtQO70psf6p5G6L4RsB14NaBKNYyiYTXNoz2n/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2027%2010%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3JdRRQqFmx7bdLN32iu6sSx6s9FouQ5IBaYA0VqLsXkcIdtRG5PXOvC-lTJoufC_nVRUObx8Zx0muYBsH1ROW86YsrW5LkVkiFtFlFN0AhRsoN_W33EpPafAgHusXJKzc4V5USB4JItN0gkrDTSZOtQO70psf6p5G6L4RsB14NaBKNYyiYTXNoz2n/w300-h400/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2027%2010%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An encrusted web</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiTx7gVHp5eMP9xN1QqOc87U5v_pHm7sZ90TUTjviLWsFBKzXU-6lBB_hHmpdhJtbat5pshqDhTVCZBxY-EVMdxG3JKpJkNmoH2wCCn6az50ISK0Rf3y9cswz4tqrl21q08dCZhEcPieYBZCAOXXQsNCHDGPpPDI1TZapru5axDyNNtMqh8wbVG8Tp/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2028%2038%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiTx7gVHp5eMP9xN1QqOc87U5v_pHm7sZ90TUTjviLWsFBKzXU-6lBB_hHmpdhJtbat5pshqDhTVCZBxY-EVMdxG3JKpJkNmoH2wCCn6az50ISK0Rf3y9cswz4tqrl21q08dCZhEcPieYBZCAOXXQsNCHDGPpPDI1TZapru5axDyNNtMqh8wbVG8Tp/w300-h400/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2028%2038%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bowing under pressure</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8YEfJ4p5k5hwxHPMvE5xsDD1OcxC69rmjc2K2C4faipt9vbJ8jd0mO15SQ_-Gj8QibWt1KeqD-waaJdpLmkRuGHncTEp6Nq_S-QSHPy5g9KWKZngS_nROKyyTqqnWqa7HJf48-NrIO_9CUZnw3w6gTj1GB7lKUxNG5UvPVwTpCfXMHLT-72tjeduO/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2029%2028%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8YEfJ4p5k5hwxHPMvE5xsDD1OcxC69rmjc2K2C4faipt9vbJ8jd0mO15SQ_-Gj8QibWt1KeqD-waaJdpLmkRuGHncTEp6Nq_S-QSHPy5g9KWKZngS_nROKyyTqqnWqa7HJf48-NrIO_9CUZnw3w6gTj1GB7lKUxNG5UvPVwTpCfXMHLT-72tjeduO/w300-h400/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2029%2028%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A frozen woodland</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxg989ofMIoQAn3YS1fUzG1f7Q4ZpPe7eaWfd4AtFOMnFsEhWE_no5yqRraKU789KQNSQ-a3P1xZd5Ea9VywmjIOp5ZMfAlGTcXw2fV2YPXdjxQII1SGlmgsY3_FjR6PErKsQ00ABYZNGTLNnniGrj9j0GiKRwufX9CCFpntU9pcFeq2zn63QJGW0R/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2030%2000%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxg989ofMIoQAn3YS1fUzG1f7Q4ZpPe7eaWfd4AtFOMnFsEhWE_no5yqRraKU789KQNSQ-a3P1xZd5Ea9VywmjIOp5ZMfAlGTcXw2fV2YPXdjxQII1SGlmgsY3_FjR6PErKsQ00ABYZNGTLNnniGrj9j0GiKRwufX9CCFpntU9pcFeq2zn63QJGW0R/w300-h400/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2030%2000%20PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cloaked in snow</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebUFiYbGfBoRNsi8LJ_omQyEZ7hJ914j5-P7MaSoLGJCaBA6lH-Txp1VSzdFPdEQlhLACq0MrAs37weeBvVcdGHjsTNEmpRpRhtV_CJ1ap5qIwSmNMQaHHd7tBZ2kbU7VQtpgxJ_Ywm6gnGvvyJzhztKIaKl2-SSTQEfbFmVzK0DQgYr0TFWWZlCI/s1600/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2036%2010%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebUFiYbGfBoRNsi8LJ_omQyEZ7hJ914j5-P7MaSoLGJCaBA6lH-Txp1VSzdFPdEQlhLACq0MrAs37weeBvVcdGHjsTNEmpRpRhtV_CJ1ap5qIwSmNMQaHHd7tBZ2kbU7VQtpgxJ_Ywm6gnGvvyJzhztKIaKl2-SSTQEfbFmVzK0DQgYr0TFWWZlCI/w400-h300/Photo%20Mar%2017,%205%2036%2010%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still feels like winter</td></tr></tbody></table>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-15274394378153162052022-03-06T16:57:00.000-07:002022-03-06T16:57:49.007-07:00Spirit of Winter - Colored Pencil Drawing<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhs8GJ_A-pUbk6ZMig26hTo5KOZb7suu7oJl3vHRtNWAnri_m4Bpgl4S-eHrm7JLKjJUh9NFG5xIjjKSeP1dfA0sJVYYTQ-PyFRAe26fPK1BX-u2JCfYq2ildFXd-wD_Xr2LTxlxjLpHW2XUrSSjH4TePAaB3MWv929hx6DYjCasVITGNYYNsKCtwSv=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhs8GJ_A-pUbk6ZMig26hTo5KOZb7suu7oJl3vHRtNWAnri_m4Bpgl4S-eHrm7JLKjJUh9NFG5xIjjKSeP1dfA0sJVYYTQ-PyFRAe26fPK1BX-u2JCfYq2ildFXd-wD_Xr2LTxlxjLpHW2XUrSSjH4TePAaB3MWv929hx6DYjCasVITGNYYNsKCtwSv=w640-h400" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Spirit of Winter" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">This time of year, a never ending cycle of storms sweeps down from the mountains burying the foothills in a frozen tomb. The ice cold essence seeps into your aching bones and the chill doesn’t thaw until late spring.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Despite the season’s harshness, the artist is lured into an attempt to capture the mysterious poetry evoked by such an austere landscape. In defiance of the somber setting, a palette of unexpected hues is required to accomplish the task.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Interred in eternal snow, a woodland valley is hauntingly diffused with the spirit of winter. Jutting out of the ground, dark menhirs are scattered across the meadow, making the composition’s structure seem monumental.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The deserted cabin is evidence of a recurring saga about the struggle between this area’s inhabitants and the environment. A phantom peak, pyramidal in shape, complements the strict geometry of the shelter.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The faltering shack is gradually being reclaimed by the land so its ragged edges melt into the surrounding hillside. It’s sloped roofing still bears a snowy load and horizontal details are scratched into the dressed timber.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">An irregular border of branches is glistening with wet flakes while providing a necessary counter-balance with the other elements. The different pieces fitting together to create a swirl of interlocking shapes.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The constellation of pine tree pillars forms a natural gateway to the silvery heavens above. During this solstice dawn, a dark rift in the clouds suggests a portal to the very heart of an infinite universe.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The place is often overlooked by some who boldly march towards tomorrow. For me, it’s sacred ground where remnants of our predecessors are preserved, a memory of yesterday we should never forget. </p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-89581399321369682442022-02-19T00:30:00.001-07:002022-02-19T00:30:00.179-07:00Midwinter Blues - A Sea of Snow<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjmRlljQPz7ZMLhxWa0Tz1UdGgQB5ZIJh24HWLBLeZaqEJuFBBImBj9_FaHOp3gEUs1SiPv0NkiVvFMWnQVUjwK-v-IVk2DZAtdYA8e8GRm1YCDoGAQ9UXpLOymOqQw5o6MNHOYFhZAmpXYTibQmPbCqbQ6uOxFPjjXESpDAdsGibpJt4_lmb9qPFjn=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjmRlljQPz7ZMLhxWa0Tz1UdGgQB5ZIJh24HWLBLeZaqEJuFBBImBj9_FaHOp3gEUs1SiPv0NkiVvFMWnQVUjwK-v-IVk2DZAtdYA8e8GRm1YCDoGAQ9UXpLOymOqQw5o6MNHOYFhZAmpXYTibQmPbCqbQ6uOxFPjjXESpDAdsGibpJt4_lmb9qPFjn=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Midwinter Blues</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">It’s midwinter and it won’t stop snowing as Evergreen is experiencing one or two storms every week. During small interludes, warmer weather generates some melting but, overall, the big drifts continue to grow.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">On clear days, the subzero temps are brutal but the sun’s clean rays infiltrate the forest causing the trees to sparkle. The giant pine cast deep blue shadows that undulate across the wavy surface of the sea of snow.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Last summer the lively marshland was brimming with activity as the place is popular with both people and wildlife but now it’s as still as a cemetery. If you can withstand the elements, there is a certain peace that can only be found in such winter haunts.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Monolithic Bergen Peak quietly overlooks the grandeur of a frozen landscape paralyzed by the bitter cold. The mountain’s stoic expression reveals a permanence that’s reassuring during these ever-changing times.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">While buried under feet of white powder, life struggles to survive as the wild animals and birds wander into town searching for food and shelter. We all share a harsh, common condition as we trudge through another day during this icy monsoon.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhG1ROPete7DNfJYfOTIHeSp3LbYyKWIVpJdsfYyKcdgzInriN0pU9G9A-B3g4B2mfrh54Hu6SUzF3AJ_9Zb2beEgukktSmm86S-uiV-opwppI-xSb9g-931IvFLycmScvwdMVFbZeoXPKwoZowfsOijIihlARE4YTA8NKNqalLN1S74ofJZ658_UOZ=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhG1ROPete7DNfJYfOTIHeSp3LbYyKWIVpJdsfYyKcdgzInriN0pU9G9A-B3g4B2mfrh54Hu6SUzF3AJ_9Zb2beEgukktSmm86S-uiV-opwppI-xSb9g-931IvFLycmScvwdMVFbZeoXPKwoZowfsOijIihlARE4YTA8NKNqalLN1S74ofJZ658_UOZ=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Storms every week</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0umvPW3h0Y3c4OFJE2LCP6NM2dV0zLXc8I2V8zsdnqUDxOXof9Vr3dX3s8M1xB95q7lSnEnhIkwGwVCQCf4HElMkBctG91YPd5J8LOYz7bQN2cycLYtZU1ZTEwAIsBtiilJdIPWsQZ_-TDA2HXoxy75S2IHqOo-ihMoHoLw8NcMyjwncxTTmCq8JH=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0umvPW3h0Y3c4OFJE2LCP6NM2dV0zLXc8I2V8zsdnqUDxOXof9Vr3dX3s8M1xB95q7lSnEnhIkwGwVCQCf4HElMkBctG91YPd5J8LOYz7bQN2cycLYtZU1ZTEwAIsBtiilJdIPWsQZ_-TDA2HXoxy75S2IHqOo-ihMoHoLw8NcMyjwncxTTmCq8JH=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Subzero temps are brutal</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhG4pk7SGij1XaNgk5YoGk1fSus9y_dVpaNnYOIb1TXfRXJf13__KY78xmiBA9D5ScfrboS-Ph_sk080MXC3gUcX9U9_DKxdJjMzeW3vnBVxmg-M1OXKqKVAU4M8Ry8_22n5N77wu4BCusXCL8hvRVeUO29e7TZSa0YoEXKTAMvs1ySAcMW5_tMdI0Q=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhG4pk7SGij1XaNgk5YoGk1fSus9y_dVpaNnYOIb1TXfRXJf13__KY78xmiBA9D5ScfrboS-Ph_sk080MXC3gUcX9U9_DKxdJjMzeW3vnBVxmg-M1OXKqKVAU4M8Ry8_22n5N77wu4BCusXCL8hvRVeUO29e7TZSa0YoEXKTAMvs1ySAcMW5_tMdI0Q=w400-h225" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandeur of a frozen landscape</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgC1eQ7BUgG-Y2DwM6JY200TKzzE4Ms1hCn5eihXYrmnsyEGTSatO_IEJF4NN4_I1tH-a2pnJDN7za0tL8e5cSgL9ItJdNqiadhA5oVd_LXvdYmAsOhFmxx9nhK1ka4cHAfWrKFJblPA85qq3RbyB7HDuPZlE3TN5v3voD91hxYPG_JRAs96c4BAIGH=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgC1eQ7BUgG-Y2DwM6JY200TKzzE4Ms1hCn5eihXYrmnsyEGTSatO_IEJF4NN4_I1tH-a2pnJDN7za0tL8e5cSgL9ItJdNqiadhA5oVd_LXvdYmAsOhFmxx9nhK1ka4cHAfWrKFJblPA85qq3RbyB7HDuPZlE3TN5v3voD91hxYPG_JRAs96c4BAIGH=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The trees sparkle</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgc_57hrzlHTmX_ehxPBMYzXILFfbzTJP5ppiKWRz29YoejlbmzD22qfjzYy6xSrclAQOBn84jz0CVb1rwXaqAFOF15JKWRVu0__aVRXHt4MebDB17sJsbYdPCE5TF7D3d-VJz3nHWol8SnmNc7fuEsTGalBV9pgzbF86TYOiLjD4jOpp9jE_gkxEqg=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgc_57hrzlHTmX_ehxPBMYzXILFfbzTJP5ppiKWRz29YoejlbmzD22qfjzYy6xSrclAQOBn84jz0CVb1rwXaqAFOF15JKWRVu0__aVRXHt4MebDB17sJsbYdPCE5TF7D3d-VJz3nHWol8SnmNc7fuEsTGalBV9pgzbF86TYOiLjD4jOpp9jE_gkxEqg=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A winter haunt</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-ldD1xwaVQaG_T5VTaK6WfrgMqTnk_sEPITnLxOp0WkzCrV7c5OicoSBxNTksDBNlsdlQUR2rt5ei52uplifJGdxKW8Z9swgIrF2NqX7YE23fGjjIRg6XRyRD0CzxK311hs0rKjLAaH20ECUIct50Dn6sFaIRtzWt-tgGaRdfsfHCy2qUv5fhlc9G=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-ldD1xwaVQaG_T5VTaK6WfrgMqTnk_sEPITnLxOp0WkzCrV7c5OicoSBxNTksDBNlsdlQUR2rt5ei52uplifJGdxKW8Z9swgIrF2NqX7YE23fGjjIRg6XRyRD0CzxK311hs0rKjLAaH20ECUIct50Dn6sFaIRtzWt-tgGaRdfsfHCy2qUv5fhlc9G=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drifts continue to grow</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbg5_tKq1y3pZ6OnHWDX6oLPl-2bFOKKrdX-ACc8-4l5sxEb5JnoRd_4r-nsBPR-KEUgBq_hABgFOiXOEz3RDW80K6CM6TaWa4p2VemfOLkj8bhVA4V87Cmrkl2vqw-rakCNrfSubgKo6yI3Mgn9F34NDMl2sJR43geUvCJX_82z62Zyil7tksOkOy=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbg5_tKq1y3pZ6OnHWDX6oLPl-2bFOKKrdX-ACc8-4l5sxEb5JnoRd_4r-nsBPR-KEUgBq_hABgFOiXOEz3RDW80K6CM6TaWa4p2VemfOLkj8bhVA4V87Cmrkl2vqw-rakCNrfSubgKo6yI3Mgn9F34NDMl2sJR43geUvCJX_82z62Zyil7tksOkOy=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A certain peace</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_No4J8RE4jdRxZHTwTHqqo-yzb4d_7wsiC31pKXByoI4MQnQv0vsmAu2yD1BVl1PrjwcPtOFdoef5AwR8FmuP1BuZMXfIV3zFXJjx_2ocGsulx1ds92pBE0JeNaJgtxmU7oouMVQbWkSVJIXbTWiEX2TrwIUexZym4cQIaEGLnz76OQP-d1wrFGA2=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_No4J8RE4jdRxZHTwTHqqo-yzb4d_7wsiC31pKXByoI4MQnQv0vsmAu2yD1BVl1PrjwcPtOFdoef5AwR8FmuP1BuZMXfIV3zFXJjx_2ocGsulx1ds92pBE0JeNaJgtxmU7oouMVQbWkSVJIXbTWiEX2TrwIUexZym4cQIaEGLnz76OQP-d1wrFGA2=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep blue shadows</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOoOUp4zFPLSFbT45fh4nbCV4MCezOwVr3gFDP1arMZM4MAX9Z0qUC07edHhdfiAuMLPZSA_gicFH9n8KIWQeoRj2IeqceAuf0rHs28VSiZKsykJjmD1Gmbu68xxiyXrHy-QtRK8JRTIL2FOikHLgIYzS3GQU9RYaTWv0S_CMLSdFb8FJP24hkT3CD=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOoOUp4zFPLSFbT45fh4nbCV4MCezOwVr3gFDP1arMZM4MAX9Z0qUC07edHhdfiAuMLPZSA_gicFH9n8KIWQeoRj2IeqceAuf0rHs28VSiZKsykJjmD1Gmbu68xxiyXrHy-QtRK8JRTIL2FOikHLgIYzS3GQU9RYaTWv0S_CMLSdFb8FJP24hkT3CD=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sea of snow</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgf3ZwIin-Y_bRJc-JMAZ1nmgZdAtcO5Xi-EVI3UMLcagRpc64oVjq96XZdXtAMtS_GAdB3A0WupbCyP3WF-hIkS_ik3qS26TO291x2sN4p3vwem09BtRxhMDnQ6G5Na86IVXtk3lKpze5tlvPzYqz9VO_n4OXqzP2KG5k29dc0-6uUQcyND_PibBBO=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgf3ZwIin-Y_bRJc-JMAZ1nmgZdAtcO5Xi-EVI3UMLcagRpc64oVjq96XZdXtAMtS_GAdB3A0WupbCyP3WF-hIkS_ik3qS26TO291x2sN4p3vwem09BtRxhMDnQ6G5Na86IVXtk3lKpze5tlvPzYqz9VO_n4OXqzP2KG5k29dc0-6uUQcyND_PibBBO=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clean rays infiltrate the forest</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLAvRPFdo0D2zogDOC0i47amOw4ApzjbnROHTBU8u3feYmxxw2VQU0nVXu6oFe0ZbpdTI4y_nThQJhKDSJLv7ryOpvDCymv5sKsRfgMnHIxb7kxqmGj0bLDtWDofyhlr0lJ59bMHWD08epkTuaZtDSVdkFmaFyodsfv_1Hhqkn3ObxqjKOALjjRFDe=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiLAvRPFdo0D2zogDOC0i47amOw4ApzjbnROHTBU8u3feYmxxw2VQU0nVXu6oFe0ZbpdTI4y_nThQJhKDSJLv7ryOpvDCymv5sKsRfgMnHIxb7kxqmGj0bLDtWDofyhlr0lJ59bMHWD08epkTuaZtDSVdkFmaFyodsfv_1Hhqkn3ObxqjKOALjjRFDe=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mule deer in the snow</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhVOBlQjCiecofTFbIkwaA6l0KpXEa8Hl5vS9xMwxNByjtSybgpUnFcepaM92_b7XU6dOu19ui1z__4nF-kBI8H-c4qUxGPxf4In13wnYUZEoMR49vLyV1jQfN5Mw7XGJeafuIh_q1f1Eu_yDMNlL_NQZ0mRBpnzAyyw28UT8EzVfhfpQBdAqhLYEiM=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhVOBlQjCiecofTFbIkwaA6l0KpXEa8Hl5vS9xMwxNByjtSybgpUnFcepaM92_b7XU6dOu19ui1z__4nF-kBI8H-c4qUxGPxf4In13wnYUZEoMR49vLyV1jQfN5Mw7XGJeafuIh_q1f1Eu_yDMNlL_NQZ0mRBpnzAyyw28UT8EzVfhfpQBdAqhLYEiM=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A warm interlude</td></tr></tbody></table></p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-38086559726903230722022-02-02T11:58:00.000-07:002022-02-02T11:58:44.515-07:00Green Creek Winter - Pioneer Strength<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJODxXBZ9ZrQbkv4MuvfljTd_5f9z7XtkON_OlUt3NIpM1jCr20l3tDYWb32QKRS59Hkj7RSfTeyW1oX1lhVaj-53DbZS43KdXYI6e0hBPqD6Y-nlqrueddXQdB8ztsdrln3RLWYOi4-cI1qJ6FqyB5sJSH_HgBnzCRiyA2GzHbbDg8aWkIjvflR6x=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjJODxXBZ9ZrQbkv4MuvfljTd_5f9z7XtkON_OlUt3NIpM1jCr20l3tDYWb32QKRS59Hkj7RSfTeyW1oX1lhVaj-53DbZS43KdXYI6e0hBPqD6Y-nlqrueddXQdB8ztsdrln3RLWYOi4-cI1qJ6FqyB5sJSH_HgBnzCRiyA2GzHbbDg8aWkIjvflR6x=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The green creek</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">It’s winter on the Green Creek but there’s not even a dusting of snow to distinguish the dark season. An icy breath circulates through the solemn labyrinth of barren trees that arch across the deep ravine.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The stream’s designation is derived from the mossy undergrowth that ordains the water’s vibrant coloring. The little oasis winds through a desolate prairie whose harsh environment leaves unfortunate victims in its wake.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The rugged pastureland is littered with historical remnants of more difficult times. The multitude of unearthed artifacts symbolize the strength of the pioneers who still endure this region’s volatile climate.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjAuKddTk4WGUxrjyWTPN_r9R5i_6OlluarfpPOlvB2L4vXuWsgFiAj6hkkyLXGT5v4Wp5zA1IWvNV2FV95UCoDLC4UcBDajBhUYZiDJ89qmtXcvh7nN9MrB0iT4hIAguGkiFHuj-8hLENWerpfumZgrUpS8wZDL5HPdIjP869QN8RgaafLNyOxnh5C=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjAuKddTk4WGUxrjyWTPN_r9R5i_6OlluarfpPOlvB2L4vXuWsgFiAj6hkkyLXGT5v4Wp5zA1IWvNV2FV95UCoDLC4UcBDajBhUYZiDJ89qmtXcvh7nN9MrB0iT4hIAguGkiFHuj-8hLENWerpfumZgrUpS8wZDL5HPdIjP869QN8RgaafLNyOxnh5C=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's winter</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiNzSLC1jOjw0rBUzMaolBUTlpkP04Vj7_xSrwfx_dPJbbvhBDKdsGpw2pcczf1lxQYYx7XaSFwlvSsIXC-Hp1aYo2rda-e5r7EN29Ea0wxMHOa0ETbuUzUvkYnrkx1-WdubaETK-sLnzWdW93YPpwNwgTVHgRKAo7DsbMWgrDlsuuh009raA3UEv-H=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiNzSLC1jOjw0rBUzMaolBUTlpkP04Vj7_xSrwfx_dPJbbvhBDKdsGpw2pcczf1lxQYYx7XaSFwlvSsIXC-Hp1aYo2rda-e5r7EN29Ea0wxMHOa0ETbuUzUvkYnrkx1-WdubaETK-sLnzWdW93YPpwNwgTVHgRKAo7DsbMWgrDlsuuh009raA3UEv-H=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No snow</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj79azlIb11V-uvTv3XZGXwyswEaBdvjov6w6Je0EOPaG9jngT4WBASFkWXAmR-vyaLQ5SoWqqsWDO5ox5HZqWPVHprC_l9jW28zwp7S5FAxwc8Ti5PG3rPfJjblXkNf020R9J_lvj1gBltksqV8PI-ORaGo0Xv-pfJX5s0BDotKZk1Fzn_jAE0u_ku=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj79azlIb11V-uvTv3XZGXwyswEaBdvjov6w6Je0EOPaG9jngT4WBASFkWXAmR-vyaLQ5SoWqqsWDO5ox5HZqWPVHprC_l9jW28zwp7S5FAxwc8Ti5PG3rPfJjblXkNf020R9J_lvj1gBltksqV8PI-ORaGo0Xv-pfJX5s0BDotKZk1Fzn_jAE0u_ku=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A green creek</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgB9a-dHjp1O5CN1SHIdq_c0WOXFtpJMY0-u_ql2SHFrab27IDQPfc2jgODGZwmwnJ0aWluDoGjwLS9WS8yeNv4gEYPs2VIRvPUEFTnBnIO0HRQ7FF-NdrwMT8NuaBQwJbJSovAAebw9AjnxdtGOXkMbnreQAT81_rzpwsXQ5GK7N3zPhJjXA6yGzjt=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgB9a-dHjp1O5CN1SHIdq_c0WOXFtpJMY0-u_ql2SHFrab27IDQPfc2jgODGZwmwnJ0aWluDoGjwLS9WS8yeNv4gEYPs2VIRvPUEFTnBnIO0HRQ7FF-NdrwMT8NuaBQwJbJSovAAebw9AjnxdtGOXkMbnreQAT81_rzpwsXQ5GK7N3zPhJjXA6yGzjt=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dark season</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzl2dOgx_dCeM2avG5UW5q6PSj6ncarnmABWycdqtUc3NDTBSxTYg_05y3mnK7HQ94uIUl8q7-A6Uy9MJmkJcn5TQsgRUJT4u93VKCQbV2MZxHvc7ue6rDhlDxD3IZ_r82UQP8d1OFyyHHAYLiYkbUG6p632P9LhHNhq6c36qqu-UFy9QpyRRnSkqE=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzl2dOgx_dCeM2avG5UW5q6PSj6ncarnmABWycdqtUc3NDTBSxTYg_05y3mnK7HQ94uIUl8q7-A6Uy9MJmkJcn5TQsgRUJT4u93VKCQbV2MZxHvc7ue6rDhlDxD3IZ_r82UQP8d1OFyyHHAYLiYkbUG6p632P9LhHNhq6c36qqu-UFy9QpyRRnSkqE=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Icy breath</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgiX0YLaL_OYTv9Y8dPlkmucVskhxDQcvh9InCWsoYqoJ6emWEgjTzD0qzmGIDc6YjtAhUIswsiH3565ndQhgIA2sCsslevkzptAHfjFapNS3iECUni35Y8OnCuXO5P1EvFktWlpFBjzHGI-fsWfjZOL-SxLNr5CMpIYtaYnybhfoZCtlWNbg28auEj=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgiX0YLaL_OYTv9Y8dPlkmucVskhxDQcvh9InCWsoYqoJ6emWEgjTzD0qzmGIDc6YjtAhUIswsiH3565ndQhgIA2sCsslevkzptAHfjFapNS3iECUni35Y8OnCuXO5P1EvFktWlpFBjzHGI-fsWfjZOL-SxLNr5CMpIYtaYnybhfoZCtlWNbg28auEj=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An oasis</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhz0ecgwSnLC-brC8_40unR4Qiz1A0K9DKavDwYGaN-XOXlJgIhIOBVTMkcevgM_zBh1pnshnLXzvT4JE3TdZ-KQkh1FRsUymGah2-Lcl5gS5H9h6oyuP0aelyzl3KC_r96HUjppcjp3twpePEMDt_8TkHMlxJrFhiVBw1IlC6xHLIoB4UOAQyIHl6n=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhz0ecgwSnLC-brC8_40unR4Qiz1A0K9DKavDwYGaN-XOXlJgIhIOBVTMkcevgM_zBh1pnshnLXzvT4JE3TdZ-KQkh1FRsUymGah2-Lcl5gS5H9h6oyuP0aelyzl3KC_r96HUjppcjp3twpePEMDt_8TkHMlxJrFhiVBw1IlC6xHLIoB4UOAQyIHl6n=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A harsh environment</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2r0KA6MT3TUgoTA44IkbWrx7okr4Invn8wVv_ANxR9EHdIu4pJ3Sgp8BvwXMWIgkN3P7s_C6CJBmQDLPZTEth9CMmm-DwXC6zmt2nyoLMvtUbdoYR4V_xvwp4oRXC7zV0do8jNk7nEaZZUO8_BZ1aM317gbBGwkkBLtk4siIx3t7DmnWdJJlS7jww=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2r0KA6MT3TUgoTA44IkbWrx7okr4Invn8wVv_ANxR9EHdIu4pJ3Sgp8BvwXMWIgkN3P7s_C6CJBmQDLPZTEth9CMmm-DwXC6zmt2nyoLMvtUbdoYR4V_xvwp4oRXC7zV0do8jNk7nEaZZUO8_BZ1aM317gbBGwkkBLtk4siIx3t7DmnWdJJlS7jww=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A deep ravine</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0SiSVFvjFbt-nkAvL1Qq3EMl42Xa4pE9xM--uM_Jv0y5VHrMqoQzTsBuoJ3rpFEi-f8NftbBJvlTHa3eU_tfyAXqseMaPXeVXJkU9ng8JaEV_-e9NFRds2pngQVSHOXkbAT3KzTSFKH7z5Y33ieZgMVrXsQgPAmiW9AL7xykU3i5tjuNGX-VExl9J=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0SiSVFvjFbt-nkAvL1Qq3EMl42Xa4pE9xM--uM_Jv0y5VHrMqoQzTsBuoJ3rpFEi-f8NftbBJvlTHa3eU_tfyAXqseMaPXeVXJkU9ng8JaEV_-e9NFRds2pngQVSHOXkbAT3KzTSFKH7z5Y33ieZgMVrXsQgPAmiW9AL7xykU3i5tjuNGX-VExl9J=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rugged pastureland</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiL2RnGtoTo1_5uslLYlUzl08Gt4kGZm6K0W9XjS5xiyWawMs6o9CkYq4mHQQ9Jn-dv3p6JiZWn9FZBx8UmGY-FaMp7u7bpEKvToVcymOThQeOEDrrLa8R-hpv_wc9PUajtO-2c8nhftiKMU8ejpKwMjydNB_Av2QRHU-z2Hyhuj5No75xKLCNTZvbj=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiL2RnGtoTo1_5uslLYlUzl08Gt4kGZm6K0W9XjS5xiyWawMs6o9CkYq4mHQQ9Jn-dv3p6JiZWn9FZBx8UmGY-FaMp7u7bpEKvToVcymOThQeOEDrrLa8R-hpv_wc9PUajtO-2c8nhftiKMU8ejpKwMjydNB_Av2QRHU-z2Hyhuj5No75xKLCNTZvbj=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Difficult times</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg9jnfxxy5sgZ_8yQNv-U_RjVrERpwDt80fEBPHwJ5MMqCknqqnN5Lqzu3ohZDvxBZ6ag5iXonLcVFL9A2vDEkMKwfyR6DLsoni2OaAM9p61YnrblWQuIpSw-WptR72UkRQClyNGvGl6W8I10WcAQ53CQNHdDWlSKCgwNUI_qcAeuEQWk3CXPcdl72V=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg9jnfxxy5sgZ_8yQNv-U_RjVrERpwDt80fEBPHwJ5MMqCknqqnN5Lqzu3ohZDvxBZ6ag5iXonLcVFL9A2vDEkMKwfyR6DLsoni2OaAM9p61YnrblWQuIpSw-WptR72UkRQClyNGvGl6W8I10WcAQ53CQNHdDWlSKCgwNUI_qcAeuEQWk3CXPcdl72V=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mossy undergrowth</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpYdRn0SWGe5AMJ-CAHEjiprIXEg_8-3cxGeXkM2_IwQUGIHhDfi_Qmg6TUrBUGJg01r_4nM8oikHonB0ImRU5V6F9t_TRWt84Qs1jh549AO9Qhjga9ldsCelFEgRYdqDB15zhAlKN0J_pSvAsetwvmIpQoLqJyGQ6aCEGWItMOOT7ov_sVD7KJiEr=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpYdRn0SWGe5AMJ-CAHEjiprIXEg_8-3cxGeXkM2_IwQUGIHhDfi_Qmg6TUrBUGJg01r_4nM8oikHonB0ImRU5V6F9t_TRWt84Qs1jh549AO9Qhjga9ldsCelFEgRYdqDB15zhAlKN0J_pSvAsetwvmIpQoLqJyGQ6aCEGWItMOOT7ov_sVD7KJiEr=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A labyrinth</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg345514I8mwXwXFgfqzdUaoe9ihEFLSlBywhcxlZHQnKO8fxEHmjEAIGOwWTwLdysedWhrRmmD79SHsHM7Wg08cztVEToQF8fUh5e4oaFGhDo-hD3tLezgKEaYCPfcPykSHpbGfYEG9IE1alg2FR88mncX7ofPzX8spwwYr1xALh7k55CwMBzxlZw-=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg345514I8mwXwXFgfqzdUaoe9ihEFLSlBywhcxlZHQnKO8fxEHmjEAIGOwWTwLdysedWhrRmmD79SHsHM7Wg08cztVEToQF8fUh5e4oaFGhDo-hD3tLezgKEaYCPfcPykSHpbGfYEG9IE1alg2FR88mncX7ofPzX8spwwYr1xALh7k55CwMBzxlZw-=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A volatile climate</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg1q_A2y-ebCKSeZ68g-Ckn1ADTVBp2q7ZZC-Hc5kCJBDo1YuCQa73CWM6bLRL5b5QB65kGStlGSbm5eglL5oKCHfwYl2P7ZgzlECDWSP2ZoOFbc7WQTN8hFf0bvDTsk7uXwB2wI46qSshcTwRwMpOX_9Lay-dqnkNwz4TxhgHzpR7VOTz_xWQ1tW_R=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg1q_A2y-ebCKSeZ68g-Ckn1ADTVBp2q7ZZC-Hc5kCJBDo1YuCQa73CWM6bLRL5b5QB65kGStlGSbm5eglL5oKCHfwYl2P7ZgzlECDWSP2ZoOFbc7WQTN8hFf0bvDTsk7uXwB2wI46qSshcTwRwMpOX_9Lay-dqnkNwz4TxhgHzpR7VOTz_xWQ1tW_R=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arching trees</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3qNGXWrmehjDI7Su5qzbnnrbiMpahbxB6amalOotXTaryNy8TJMyJY-b3ZpfpRn0kwphxP46gNOQoe50h6eCCKQSgHEPyNqJQbdQRoZOxhZsdPB-NMe8D68le7TAyaw8QHNE9pvQh9C3jWRlKbTNH69TKCgdpHKmZdZ_GoJLIdNGiDBiyIZno413j=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3qNGXWrmehjDI7Su5qzbnnrbiMpahbxB6amalOotXTaryNy8TJMyJY-b3ZpfpRn0kwphxP46gNOQoe50h6eCCKQSgHEPyNqJQbdQRoZOxhZsdPB-NMe8D68le7TAyaw8QHNE9pvQh9C3jWRlKbTNH69TKCgdpHKmZdZ_GoJLIdNGiDBiyIZno413j=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An unfortunate victim</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_tYgcYLCnhRJVYeXOeZ3WajxXd22REATMZY-9ce9Ze_vaPTvlzJCAebJvFvcS_fGqrtVb-M1CcX6TRWw57o_irfVPvQz-zggMu3Qbo-p_JBTut61W_8YXkuDyYOW3PpanVqTcfP9e4QZ0VVtws0X5ZeJh_1c09ceLJ1tP8BD439uKi9FTaO2W8hY9=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_tYgcYLCnhRJVYeXOeZ3WajxXd22REATMZY-9ce9Ze_vaPTvlzJCAebJvFvcS_fGqrtVb-M1CcX6TRWw57o_irfVPvQz-zggMu3Qbo-p_JBTut61W_8YXkuDyYOW3PpanVqTcfP9e4QZ0VVtws0X5ZeJh_1c09ceLJ1tP8BD439uKi9FTaO2W8hY9=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vibrant coloring</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjEu37loJL4f9nndymjPGAOkilxcgWZ6jHhIVQYQp40V-EAygl9OhuNVWHjXsdyTTzqYTKo9hVfQf3nMi71gopvo9QgIgwAMiJpJE8lg17vrfKqi7MViw71wPoGA6qjDveA1t6tNFHlOnAtkMXsN4uE8UnL-upGLOzvMUSkQBDygq7QRPFHmNXmvE_i=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjEu37loJL4f9nndymjPGAOkilxcgWZ6jHhIVQYQp40V-EAygl9OhuNVWHjXsdyTTzqYTKo9hVfQf3nMi71gopvo9QgIgwAMiJpJE8lg17vrfKqi7MViw71wPoGA6qjDveA1t6tNFHlOnAtkMXsN4uE8UnL-upGLOzvMUSkQBDygq7QRPFHmNXmvE_i=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Desolate prairie</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipPj5FdnszS5IvJYgNGHnx1SupeFXSjQAeXeNeLLNWxVKXnk7zZ6Ci8jioivr8s5lIxODtZrTvxFt83cC2KStUU1QMkEbTxu62UpWNsFIkbQJTCGOTCRzyNUN6eRiFWFmnaoZMiLrjmuxJloBiU2An9Ln8alVKj8gVDlWTg-Kj4cHn7UoO2SycQ2nj=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEipPj5FdnszS5IvJYgNGHnx1SupeFXSjQAeXeNeLLNWxVKXnk7zZ6Ci8jioivr8s5lIxODtZrTvxFt83cC2KStUU1QMkEbTxu62UpWNsFIkbQJTCGOTCRzyNUN6eRiFWFmnaoZMiLrjmuxJloBiU2An9Ln8alVKj8gVDlWTg-Kj4cHn7UoO2SycQ2nj=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Unearthed artifacts</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgDzO2TQyl_ugxocrURST_8Kkw4dGa7ZzKQ27ws-1aBdjxkSSvI6LdieJUEeD6mRudusMC_AYFPM7EAnFmYhnkrKHQyvGiygDelFCIPOfzXA4cJ8Nx9wJiXs2OTwev8FZdfEtPMtZy2rKU-AQpmK6RU_4acFFTqKCVIT_kI8Y19fBlQK16l0YE9So76=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgDzO2TQyl_ugxocrURST_8Kkw4dGa7ZzKQ27ws-1aBdjxkSSvI6LdieJUEeD6mRudusMC_AYFPM7EAnFmYhnkrKHQyvGiygDelFCIPOfzXA4cJ8Nx9wJiXs2OTwev8FZdfEtPMtZy2rKU-AQpmK6RU_4acFFTqKCVIT_kI8Y19fBlQK16l0YE9So76=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pioneer strength</td></tr></tbody></table></p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-56434124812556715212022-01-09T15:38:00.000-07:002022-01-09T15:38:28.258-07:00Bergen Peak from Evergreen Lake - Colored Pencil Drawing <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaz_3qJAgQN6gibPkFP7b5WUV7119RZjDeKOmk2eILJP7roBhsaDk8hoPm56hBeXq6Fq606-Zslx2KakV05ID_yWfCt6055oOXNDQEYg3CcEi53SNLIFgSs1gZZDmAO-xhB5fX7Q1pAJCHzsir9uYjDKp6CwchdNM3bSAUQPUNOCIXECJ4i2ttxvl5=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="996" data-original-width="1600" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiaz_3qJAgQN6gibPkFP7b5WUV7119RZjDeKOmk2eILJP7roBhsaDk8hoPm56hBeXq6Fq606-Zslx2KakV05ID_yWfCt6055oOXNDQEYg3CcEi53SNLIFgSs1gZZDmAO-xhB5fX7Q1pAJCHzsir9uYjDKp6CwchdNM3bSAUQPUNOCIXECJ4i2ttxvl5=w640-h398" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Bergen Peak from Evergreen Lake" Colored Pencil</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">A swift breeze sweeps across the surface of Evergreen Lake sending ripples through the reservoir’s vivid reflections. It’s springtime in the foothills so fresh greenery is on display but the willow brush and aspen trees are not yet in full bloom.</p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 17px;"><br /></p>
<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The whole Bear Creek Valley has come back to life and Bergen Peak looms over the scene, its north face cradled by a web of branches and pine needles. The reinvigorated forest reaches to the water’s edge where a slender tree leans into the vibrant landscape.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">After enduring a perpetual winter of deep freeze, the vernal atmosphere raises the spirit to a higher level of longing. Like the small cloud drifting across the drawing’s page, nothing stays the same as nature seems to thrive in constant change.</p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-57377325068971274552021-12-21T20:06:00.000-07:002021-12-21T20:06:14.527-07:00Evergreen Lake Trail - A Glowing Marshland<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1JT6i24lsuYVk8ltEtrWxtI1sd18rcawg5ez1cgINS1WAGigFdf_UQZ2rxnMG6u-z5-hY6s-6fTKXTNhGozXoOlor3_nXBM0JPLtAES9eDjhycsJBcHVq1pY7SMtPIOkcnJjW6BAH7yQQ2SqnXNbjTtIqCTv7TSACBpkzdVj-en7Eh2iWAwom4HA9=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1JT6i24lsuYVk8ltEtrWxtI1sd18rcawg5ez1cgINS1WAGigFdf_UQZ2rxnMG6u-z5-hY6s-6fTKXTNhGozXoOlor3_nXBM0JPLtAES9eDjhycsJBcHVq1pY7SMtPIOkcnJjW6BAH7yQQ2SqnXNbjTtIqCTv7TSACBpkzdVj-en7Eh2iWAwom4HA9=w640-h480" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evergreen Lake Trail</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Tracing the irregular contour of a scenic watershed, Evergreen Lake Trail is a looping artery centered in the heart of the foothills. On a hazy, autumn morning the water’s smooth surface faithfully reflects an unusually emerald-colored sky.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Other anomalies also occur as the pall of silence evokes an eerie sensation that is unexpected after such a boisterous summer. During this seasonal transformation, the marshland glows with a sheen of vibrant color more vivid than years past.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Surprisingly this watery world has remained fluid well into the onset of another mild winter. The predictable cycle of annual weather seems to have shifted so traditional patterns arrive later than normal, leaving the local inhabitants in a state of bewilderment.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgORVL4WNVYpsOuSbZiu7tZJ3x9qo0obKTfzDhDWhxdMtdlIniB2YjkBOhVIBhc178vV9Oe4akTxGpYzWMfHj49ULLjOKM6NqZYI8v8aXUwVTM6totfGkikjXxC7kWfu5NZusrxgSSe91NLWgwDv2T6-R3m9WdhYOd7fbQy9YtAalJWgbqr5H2l2F4O=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgORVL4WNVYpsOuSbZiu7tZJ3x9qo0obKTfzDhDWhxdMtdlIniB2YjkBOhVIBhc178vV9Oe4akTxGpYzWMfHj49ULLjOKM6NqZYI8v8aXUwVTM6totfGkikjXxC7kWfu5NZusrxgSSe91NLWgwDv2T6-R3m9WdhYOd7fbQy9YtAalJWgbqr5H2l2F4O=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A scenic watershed</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgD6YLpSRCTRyjfs-5sb8s-qHct6uidrJDouuVn32ZOi-CGtr4wE5ggdU2XZNAd-wkk1DDi3eTp3TaeyryQYnhot1qWhmZhbn6AWSgQ85upmQwmE1HOUo9mtA_Pt9g2_9vNZx12SWb8LnEh9EYoESQjP_2KcSXVf8g-f1VL7NKYBjbv0eWdekM-SP5W=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgD6YLpSRCTRyjfs-5sb8s-qHct6uidrJDouuVn32ZOi-CGtr4wE5ggdU2XZNAd-wkk1DDi3eTp3TaeyryQYnhot1qWhmZhbn6AWSgQ85upmQwmE1HOUo9mtA_Pt9g2_9vNZx12SWb8LnEh9EYoESQjP_2KcSXVf8g-f1VL7NKYBjbv0eWdekM-SP5W=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A watery world</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiotm_HTOZgOoxaZOAxYlk6V1QGljZjtUx_wQOuFjRy9b1oyMxLem3jMykwcqM3K72dXPwzgqt5G4GWcnocWy93BSL62dvPz6j5sD1FiM5FbPHt8rqwWFpwOcW1dDsZyBVxTb1xqjpkXUUyJLU1I1vKU5qH0oLBywQGOIJ3oyTUO0x_6-Ud6UzppbcB=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiotm_HTOZgOoxaZOAxYlk6V1QGljZjtUx_wQOuFjRy9b1oyMxLem3jMykwcqM3K72dXPwzgqt5G4GWcnocWy93BSL62dvPz6j5sD1FiM5FbPHt8rqwWFpwOcW1dDsZyBVxTb1xqjpkXUUyJLU1I1vKU5qH0oLBywQGOIJ3oyTUO0x_6-Ud6UzppbcB=w300-h400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cycles have shifted</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-PFqH9xJwEsSc7OSVTDiK1Kf5k07Z5F4igxy8FGJcTt_F7Khfiw-ixXlZvEEcozv3MCtwuAl68A_1ApA918VKQsn5lKssZbI5Fbil8Kf5jgiK06soKwfEWPsMBfp0AaJ6V9zZED8di8MdQf8BSdfmI2s5YkhqLut_SwSmHShtrZ7qEU3VuVfllCdI=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-PFqH9xJwEsSc7OSVTDiK1Kf5k07Z5F4igxy8FGJcTt_F7Khfiw-ixXlZvEEcozv3MCtwuAl68A_1ApA918VKQsn5lKssZbI5Fbil8Kf5jgiK06soKwfEWPsMBfp0AaJ6V9zZED8di8MdQf8BSdfmI2s5YkhqLut_SwSmHShtrZ7qEU3VuVfllCdI=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heart of the foothills</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqKZjzGB7NDDx085tM0Uw61KDtXy2y0SG4lGTsu8-qBjObT-0P_61tXq-oYtBEyTNAEoNaofEMO0qyo6DSEhfYq0EuLdNFsktSYm4kv7HlOuF15Rf39zB1y3x2BLjv1UyQOb0S8PqfLknI8L8VT9WOjAFLyQMX1SznhmwH1EDIUfSCa7mFy2MHp7hw=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqKZjzGB7NDDx085tM0Uw61KDtXy2y0SG4lGTsu8-qBjObT-0P_61tXq-oYtBEyTNAEoNaofEMO0qyo6DSEhfYq0EuLdNFsktSYm4kv7HlOuF15Rf39zB1y3x2BLjv1UyQOb0S8PqfLknI8L8VT9WOjAFLyQMX1SznhmwH1EDIUfSCa7mFy2MHp7hw=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A glowing marshland</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg11naLLXRA-zKxcW6cvE1gHiubHD4Z1yJq2rckWzkzgu0Lja5v4X0-jpQeR6P45uYzJAXR401fuSjIgU6jagnYilS6OSP7RknH6LYXUZgV77sfgcxKBbIxoob_YdRFRzVh7IYYlgysRakWQQr0DlwI6acPvKtIiXqQGLRkWrsIMXgpxmyK-NmvCIfQ=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg11naLLXRA-zKxcW6cvE1gHiubHD4Z1yJq2rckWzkzgu0Lja5v4X0-jpQeR6P45uYzJAXR401fuSjIgU6jagnYilS6OSP7RknH6LYXUZgV77sfgcxKBbIxoob_YdRFRzVh7IYYlgysRakWQQr0DlwI6acPvKtIiXqQGLRkWrsIMXgpxmyK-NmvCIfQ=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sheen of color</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOdn9GSgJUyY6Y-dDj82qiKnzYGG-IBE7CZ2C_aqVNN7XlIbC8KK_g_uDY2hQa1vW84FQx0tWzPJJCq1_iL9mLa3nb5qTW1Jykpxu1_g_TsfqMv_XJM1PpGAp1T4z_VG8iOZlgVkQrV8vtEstzc3Mf9LVpwijx9RsAwNvJTdRRDWPtaaTsV4t9YV2v=s1600" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1181" data-original-width="1600" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiOdn9GSgJUyY6Y-dDj82qiKnzYGG-IBE7CZ2C_aqVNN7XlIbC8KK_g_uDY2hQa1vW84FQx0tWzPJJCq1_iL9mLa3nb5qTW1Jykpxu1_g_TsfqMv_XJM1PpGAp1T4z_VG8iOZlgVkQrV8vtEstzc3Mf9LVpwijx9RsAwNvJTdRRDWPtaaTsV4t9YV2v=w400-h295" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A state of bewilderment</td></tr></tbody></table></p>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2245060782659121423.post-47868497491305940522021-12-05T15:53:00.000-07:002021-12-05T15:53:14.104-07:00Bergen Park Trail - Waiting Anxiously for Winter<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXUu6vPLLlLONHNdqoeUCXWct5HKNRl_Wr38mxf1LdWHGmRsaCGFvwH9g9Kzjgt3XXiA_1QuvKvxcKkdKAJtV5cwkbRprPE66XxCQdAIkLRs9ojdJ8NLVLlV5eeKoTOv1SnfaaVy2e0DE/s1600/Photo+Sep+04%252C+3+07+25+PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXUu6vPLLlLONHNdqoeUCXWct5HKNRl_Wr38mxf1LdWHGmRsaCGFvwH9g9Kzjgt3XXiA_1QuvKvxcKkdKAJtV5cwkbRprPE66XxCQdAIkLRs9ojdJ8NLVLlV5eeKoTOv1SnfaaVy2e0DE/w640-h480/Photo+Sep+04%252C+3+07+25+PM.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bergen Park Trail</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The Bergen Park Trail is a distinct walkway that circumnavigated a very old swath of ponderosa pine forest. The giant trees blot out the sun but some especially resilient rays of light pierce the canopy of sharp needles.</p>
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<p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">The subtle luminescence is responsible for the soft shadows that creep across the summer’s last tufts of tall grass. At the southern section of the green belt, the scenery opens up where a pair of little ponds reflects the scenic backdrop.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">This mild season seems eternal as there has been hardly a hint of the snow that normally adorns the landscape this time of year. We will wait anxiously for the first big storm that generates the winter weather to which we’ve become so accustomed.</p><p style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYm41bZrpZkjuvaucwztj34B7_7qJhNf7c7-_41sHxiPJ6UyxkOKTc9URVPCMG9iKbiUwTXfRLQldtwF9FIRUqbOMVeJafURV7Wc7YFhwJwtNQcyv8NNUZfWeE7ogydlpWWNnVFmVLJWM/s1600/Photo+Sep+04%252C+2+13+29+PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYm41bZrpZkjuvaucwztj34B7_7qJhNf7c7-_41sHxiPJ6UyxkOKTc9URVPCMG9iKbiUwTXfRLQldtwF9FIRUqbOMVeJafURV7Wc7YFhwJwtNQcyv8NNUZfWeE7ogydlpWWNnVFmVLJWM/w400-h300/Photo+Sep+04%252C+2+13+29+PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bergen Park</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4zdSQ7u7Ub-LEjGXUIlBGzJj_7WCo8l1L2Lj91bqmDs63x0SlhyphenhyphenixSY8_ut8hya7ab5oUJAL4fuxUFwYQfBapVEEauF_SY-p9KT_62J1_8Vw9Gv0niDku3eo_34fo3lOsVLGSlI1PEA/s1600/Photo+Sep+04%252C+2+46+28+PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4zdSQ7u7Ub-LEjGXUIlBGzJj_7WCo8l1L2Lj91bqmDs63x0SlhyphenhyphenixSY8_ut8hya7ab5oUJAL4fuxUFwYQfBapVEEauF_SY-p9KT_62J1_8Vw9Gv0niDku3eo_34fo3lOsVLGSlI1PEA/w400-h300/Photo+Sep+04%252C+2+46+28+PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Circumnavigates old pine</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnM5b4mFW4ftymQD4cocw8FVFxFVcITY2UjcoyCSuSTQlF6gpq6_KQwmsjc7mN_t1d_Jt7Hv8WS-DNHxmmMQLOgNCazmfATKcwkUGY3B8nxQ75GPZ0l23Xp5B9Z4VPrsWysnRXvGjA4Sk/s1600/Photo+Sep+04%252C+2+56+17+PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnM5b4mFW4ftymQD4cocw8FVFxFVcITY2UjcoyCSuSTQlF6gpq6_KQwmsjc7mN_t1d_Jt7Hv8WS-DNHxmmMQLOgNCazmfATKcwkUGY3B8nxQ75GPZ0l23Xp5B9Z4VPrsWysnRXvGjA4Sk/w400-h300/Photo+Sep+04%252C+2+56+17+PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ponds reflect the backdrop</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVjdbVb0ItjmDrJQe24H9D3vlbP4PbGAHwFAPCf10M2isz8QXNA5nXyutRXQtmxRuBEz9BYZhfXQ9d35aqoQv0Vom9O3gQk_0zRqo8BkTYgitQoQSxwaUZZqcS-PsQMVs-NvNU0W8mGM/s1600/Photo+Sep+04%252C+3+12+44+PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVjdbVb0ItjmDrJQe24H9D3vlbP4PbGAHwFAPCf10M2isz8QXNA5nXyutRXQtmxRuBEz9BYZhfXQ9d35aqoQv0Vom9O3gQk_0zRqo8BkTYgitQoQSxwaUZZqcS-PsQMVs-NvNU0W8mGM/w300-h400/Photo+Sep+04%252C+3+12+44+PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mild season seems eternal</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicU8U_z0Q43GAzNUkn9mEgHT6rEwR3-P5I__HrG6ilJjEoaWA1YYzwES7EYoR_M8Awxp_iPribUad_SvqMcvXtKDAGpEnFrF6T2QmlUjpILKeVq6cWYVObOJqeVjMJiQYWFzM0ZlfnZxk/s1600/Photo+Sep+04%252C+3+13+06+PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicU8U_z0Q43GAzNUkn9mEgHT6rEwR3-P5I__HrG6ilJjEoaWA1YYzwES7EYoR_M8Awxp_iPribUad_SvqMcvXtKDAGpEnFrF6T2QmlUjpILKeVq6cWYVObOJqeVjMJiQYWFzM0ZlfnZxk/w300-h400/Photo+Sep+04%252C+3+13+06+PM.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for a storm</td></tr></tbody></table>Dan Millerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02552898424225163279noreply@blogger.com0