Wizened Man at Devil’s Tower

Tags

black and white, creative, death, devil's tower, life, national park, photography, travel, tree, wyoming

Wizened, worn and breathing his final. He bears the burden of many years. I am captivated by the beauty of his extended life.

Four years ago, I went on an unforgettable adventure with my brother and nephews. I snapped many images when I wasn’t gazing in appreciation and amazement at the natural landscape. I did not discover the man in this image until recently when I was reviewing those images. I am sad I overlooked him the first time, but so glad I found him this time around.

 

Recharging

Tags

appreciation, beauty, bridge, burdens, life, life choices, nature, park, photography, recharge, refresh, walk

There come moments when I just need to recharge. I don’t need advice, a lesson, or a helpful hint. Just my thoughts. Deep breaths. And an appreciation for the beauty that surrounds me. The time to shake off any burdens and refocus on acknowledging the things in life that truly matter.

This is a favorite spot on my morning walks. It’s smack dab in the middle of the city, yet it feels a million miles away and centuries back in time.

Excuse me, while I take a moment to recharge.

Mammoth Springs

Tags

beauty, landscape, mammoth springs, musings, national park, natural, nephew, photography, yellowstone

Mammoth Springs at Yellowstone

As we stood at the railing, my nephew leaned into my side. I put my arm around his shoulders. He whispered, “Isn’t this awesome?” I kissed the top of his towhead. It certainly is.

Welcome to Fall

Tags

autumnal equinox, beauty, changing leaves, despair, fall, lake, life, miss america, nature, photography, shooting, terrorism

The Autumn Equinox officially begins on Sunday, September 22.

In a week that has brought forth much despair: the anniversary of 9-11; the tracking and identification of chemical weapons used by Syria; the crowning of a new Miss America who is Indian-American and immediately–and incorrectly–called a Muslim, an Arab, a terrorist and un-American; and the fatal shooting at the U.S. Naval shipyard, there can be no better time for a reminder of the beauty in simple things.

Lost Lake, Hazelhurst, WI (photo by AS)

Today China Doll

Tags

beijing, China, creative writing, girl, photography, poetry

girl in Beijing, 2007

Today
I see the sun rise over the fence and set behind the house.
I see my brother chase after his kite.
I see the dog bark at the cars passing by.
I see the man cook pig’s liver on a grill at the corner.
I see the woman take my photo.
I imagine I am going to be on the cover of a fashion magazine.
I want her to see me.