A couple of interesting images from one of our recent storms. The snow had covered the bare branches of these bushes and trees and created an almost abstract looking scene.
Busy branches in black and white
Subdued sunrise but cool clouds above
A capture from a week or so ago in rural Adams County, Colorado. The colors from the rising sun weren’t anything extraordinary but the form and texture of the clouds with hints of blue through them really were kind of cool.
Video slideshow: Landscape Top Shots 2018
My travels this year were largely confined to Colorado but that is not necessarily a bad thing. From the mountains to the prairies, our scenery here is second to none and provides fantastic photo opportunities no matter where you are. These are my favorite landscape captures from the past year. Best viewed full screen.
Setting “Bison moon” at sunrise
Technically the full moon this month was called the Full Cold Moon. However, as it set early in the morning Sunday, I happened across this scene. It seems fitting to post it now for Tatanka Thursday. 😉
The sun was just started to climb over the horizon and shed its golden light on the landscape and the creatures below. Above, a cloud layer but not low enough to obscuring the setting moon. In the background, the Rocky Mountains were waiting for their chance to see some sun.
Taken at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge.
Merry Christmas from the Mile High City!
The iconic holiday lighting of the Denver City and County Building. Truly is a fantastic sight, one of many here this time of season. I do wish you all very Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year! Thank you very much for following me. In closing…
“Now there were shepherds in that region living in the fields and keeping the night watch over their flock. The angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were struck with great fear. The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”” ~ Luke 2: 8-14
Whispy shades of orange, red and purple at sunrise
Holy moly we do get some stunning sunrises here in Colorado. Yesterday morning Mother Nature put on a very nice show. As the sun started to shed its light, you knew it was going to be a good one. Later phases lit up the entire sky but initially, I was most struck by the purples and reds hitting the clouds that looking like paintbrush strokes close to the horizon. Wow!
The Mile High City on a cold winter’s morning
I was feeling the need to take a ‘different’ photo excursion as I was getting burnt out on some of my regular places. One spot that I always say I should shoot more is downtown Denver. So, I headed out at 3:30 this morning and hit up a number of spots, including this popular location. It gives a fantastic view of the city and really shows off our amazing skyline. Despite all the city lights, you can even make out a few stars.
For all those empty place settings at the table this holiday season
I stopped by Fort Logan National Cemetery this past weekend to visit my dad and a few other of our nation’s heroes. He – and all of them – are sorely missed and the holidays aren’t quite the same without them.
Wreaths Across America and hundreds of volunteers place wreaths at thousands of graves at Fort Logan and other national cemeteries across the nation before Christmas each year. This very special program’s mission is to, “Remember our fallen U.S. veterans. Honor those who serve. Teach your children the value of freedom.”
The hallowed ground of these cemeteries are transformed into a beautiful and respectful scene, fitting for the holidays. For families like mine, who have loved ones interred there, it is a meaningful and emotional thing to see.
We sponsor the wreath for my dad’s site and some random others and next year, I would encourage you to do the same. Please, honor those who served and are no longer with us and say a prayer for them and their families during this blessed season.
Fire in the sky – and on the ice
An absolutely beautiful morning here on the Colorado plains. Things got started in fine fashion with a beautiful sunrise. My chosen spot was at a frozen pond that provided a nice reflection of the action in the sky. Above, the fire below then those cool, blue clouds.
It would appear winter is here
It would appear winter is here. 😉
Jackson Lake State Park in Colorado was almost entirely frozen over this morning. It was a “balmy” 3 degrees when I took this shot but, oh my, so beautiful and quiet. I just sat there on the rocks watching the sun rise over the horizon and taking it all in. I love the Great Plains!
