Of all, time must be the most fleeting. We cannot grasp it, close it in, or stem its progress. Yet, photographs do let us capture some of its essence, perhaps steal a 'piece' of its soul! So I wander through the seasons, camera close, trying to encapsulate the highpoints of those disappearing moments.
Once more I share the shining moments of a month - a month gone to never return, yet remembered in these snapshots - still lifes seeking to rebirth the moment, or at least the feeling it invoked.
As frigid fingers begin their melt and sun's rays lengthen, snow becomes a frequent guest. Yet snow may pile deep in the draws, stealing my sweat as I replow my once-packed trail - yet between snowy dumps the sun breaks through, blinding in its exhaltation!
And so, throughout February, one fine day followed another with significant snow drops in between. As the white powder deepened below the blue heavens above seemed intent to keep pace - seemingly bluer each day than the one before.
On frosty mornings the aspens shone like crystal strings on dark velvet.
My January passion - ice art - became limited to the leavings of rare morning fog. Still, ice crystals do make last year's lilac blossoms bloom again.
For some reason these photos capture February with unique accuracy - fresh snow on Jackpine against endless sun-streaked blue skies.
Despite the deepening white fluff, my 'snow-flower' continued to bloom, its delicate blossoms seemingly unaffected by their cold 'flower bed'.
Another hard frost turned willows into grizzle-headed men watching the sunrise.
Mt current favorite winter pastime - snowshoeing - had to continue with rhythmic regularlity to pack the new snow into submission on my trails.
Yet one has to appreciate the artistry of wind and snow. Simple fox tracks turn into designer 'stairs' up the hillside while snowmobile roughened surfaces are returned to newborn splendor.
However, the winter wonderland 'king' - at least for me - is always the sun. Here it gilts the sage with a shimmering unearthly beauty.
Day after day my winter excursions were filled with unspeakable beauty. Simple snow, stately trees, and ever-deepening blue skies combined in ways photos could never capture.
Yet not all my time was spent soaking up natural beauty and marveling at the privilege of living in such a serene spot. Guests came - and work called - thankfully (otherwise I wouldn't be living here).
A rare trip into the valley even gave opportunity to capture a bit of Madison Majesty. And, courtesy of a lovely winter guest, Peggy, I can show you how to take a picture with helmet still in place!
February came and went, a series of lovely days and deepening powder, like a string of precious jewels intersperced with silver beads. Am I blessed, or what?
Lady of the Lake
No comments:
Post a Comment