Desolation

Staying inside as much as possible, as it is still freezing cold here in Michigan. This morning is is -5 degrees outside. I know Spring is right around the corner, and I can't wait! I did manage to go out a few times and snap some photos of the freezing cold conditions. Right now most all of the Great Lakes are at least 60%-90% frozen depending on location. This photo is one of Lake St Clair, which flows into Lake Huron a few miles down the road. I called this one "Desolation", because there is no living thing in sight here, not even a bird. It was so cold this day, that the kids deserted the hockey nets, probably in favor of some warmth and hot chocolate. Have a great day everyone!

Fire in the Sky

One of the advantages of being surrounded by the Great Lakes of Michigan, we have the opportunity to see some truly beautiful and amazing sunrises and sunsets on the waters. At out summer place on Lake Huron, I only have to drive about 3 miles to go and watch the sunrise on the lake. To see a sunset on the same lake, I have to drive about 15 miles to see it. As you can see from this photo, the 15 mile drive is so worth it! When the sun finally starts to drop down into the water, the whole thing lasts only about 5 minutes, as it drops really fast. The beauty of the water with the backdrop of the changing sky is incredible to watch. This is something I could do everyday and never get tired of seeing. I hope you enjoy this "Fire in the Sky" as much as I did!

Sunrise Freedom

As I came down to the lake a few morning ago, I felt so peaceful watching the sunrise. I was all alone, with the ducks, the geese, and my thoughts. Of course, I was trying to think of how to create a beautiful sunrise photo as I watched the sky slowly change from darkness to the beautiful sky seen here. My other thoughts were of the meaning of this Memorial Day weekend. Memorial Day is always bittersweet for me because of my great memories of celebration every year as a child, and handing down the same traditions to my two kids. For the last few years, my memories of this weekend are of my nephew Steve. Steve was just 19 years old when he joined the Army. When he was 20, he was stationed in Iraq. He was there for 4 months when he was killed on Christmas Eve in 2008. To this day, it is so senseless to me that we have lost so many lives fighting for this country. Steve was one of the best. A great smile, infectious laugh, funny sense of humor and I always loved having him around. So, as I am able to "freely" stand here and see another beautiful sunrise, I am giving thanks to those that paid the ultimate price and gave all!

Oh Spring, Where Are You?

I can't believe that it is still so cold here in Michigan. I guess we were spoiled last year by the warm weather and we just expect the same thing this year. So, while I still wait for the nicer weather, here are a few pictures that I have been fooling around with. Thanks for looking, hope you like one or all! Happy Monday!