Impression Evergreen

Elk in the Meadow It’s a crisp spring evening and a modest herd of scraggly elk has emerged from the woodland to forage in the meadow. The sun’s rays are strained through a thin veil of clouds creating a milky haze that softens sharp edges. The wild animals are scattered across the hillside, their dark silhouettes observed in all manner of activity. Most are grazing contentedly but a few are on the move and a couple are curious about the stranger who has invaded their habitat. Intermingled with the furry, brown beasts is a flock of mountain bluebirds who sweep about nervously, their plumage glowing brightly in the low light. It’s an idyllic scene emanating tranquility and the spirit of optimism as this new season cautiously begins. Foraging in the meadow Mountain bluebirds intermingle Wild animals Scattered across the hillside Dark silhouettes An idyllic scene Curious about the stranger Spirit of optimism

Red Rocks Park, Colorado Up out of Mount Vernon Creek in the steep foothills west of Denver, an extraordinary arrangement of red rocks has shattered the western skyline. A network of dirt paths and sheer stairways are woven through the bustling venue. Taking center stage in this natural backdrop is the unique amphitheater that hosts world-class performances by musical artists. The place is always warm during a summer dayhike while weekend shows heat up the night. Looping around an ancient garden of sandstone, the Trading Post Trail is a favorite as it features lively songbirds above and yellow snakes below. Here, the park's colorful cliffs contrast sharply with the fresh, green foliage. Down on the Dinosaur Ridge, seasons have changed but up in the high country there's still lots of snow. This time of year, the semi-arid environment that describes this region is the perfect place for a solitary sojourn. After surviving a dark winter and a difficult spring, the long...

Vesper Sparrow So far this summer, the bird I’m seeing most frequently in our foothills is the decidedly nondescript vesper sparrow. His name is Latin for ‘evening’ a time when this bird loves to sing. At first glance, this stout sparrow looks rather drab but if you take the time to look closely, you’ll discover that he’s really quite beautiful. His overall light-brown color is intensified by a bright orange patch on the shoulder. A pattern of dark streaks helps him to blend perfectly into the environment. Barely visible in the vast meadow to even the keenest observer, his exuberant song is what gives his presence away. If you happen to cross paths with him, he’s not shy and he can be photographed rather easily. He tolerates a friendly encounter and watches curiously with his white-ringed eyes. He hops down the dirt trail searching for his favorite foods, insects and seeds. If you get too close though, he will flash his white outer tail feathers as he alights to a nearby m...

Spring Snowstorm Hope springs eternal in the human breast; Man never is, but always to be blessed: The soul, uneasy and confined from home, Rests and expatiates in a life to come. ~ Alexander Pope, An Essay on Man Spring began with a kaleidoscope of bright colors but scarcely into the new season and a surprise snowstorm converted the saturated scenery to grayscale. Moist flakes were dumped for days and eventually exceeded three feet. The monochrome maelstrom brought much needed moisture to the mountains and composed a magnificent landscape etched in black and white. Pale peaks melted into a misty atmosphere while the forest featured vertical patterns of textured trees. Traversing across Elk Meadow, the heart-pounding hike was a recurring lesson in faith and patience. Even after a dreary Sunday evening spent trudging through deep snow, it is still human nature to always find fresh cause for optimism. A surprise snowstorm The scenery was converted to grayscale ...

Pine tree shadows at Elk Meadow Last Saturday, sloshing through Elk Meadow was an enlightening experience. While breaking trail below Bergen Peak, the winter landscape was presented as an airy palette of pastels. A dark note set within a sea of snow, an old barn drew the photographer's attention. Built back in the 1800s, the faithful stable has become a scenic symbol for the town's steadfast spirit. Streaming down from above, a ribbon of icy indigo produced a gentle cascade. Up at the overlook, a cluster of ponderosa pine created cobalt shadows that followed the field's wavy contours. Still too early for birds to be back, our only companion in the white wilderness was a clever coyote. After a gloomy week of miserable weather, an exuberant sky was sprinkled with powder blue. Wandering through the mountains warmed our hearts and melted the melancholy. Despite this dreary time being filled with snow and cold, don't be downcast. Look at the bright side, at leas...