You never know what you will find hidden in the willows is what this guy was probably thinking when he noticed we were peeking in from the edge of his terrain. It always amazes me just how easy a creature the size of the moose can disappear from your sight with a simple step or two into the willows. Photographed near Cottonwood pass in Colorado.
Paddling along on a warm summers day. Too late for the morning light yet too early for sunset.
The sun high overhead as Cormorants rest…
a tree reflects…
the Heron ponders the day.
Paddling along with the sun high overhead we gaze into the distance and enjoy summers light on a beautiful summer day.
I can’t say it better than it is stated in this NY Times article “There’s simply no way to talk about the beauty of Orobanche uniflora without raising a lot of eyebrows.”
Commonly called Naked Broomrape or sometimes Flowered Cancer Root this wonderful flower with unflattering common names was a new one to us when we came across it in meadow on a recent hike.
It is a short leafless plant unable to photosynthsize thus gaining it’s nutrients by parasitism. Often using sedum, saxifrages and asters as a host plant. Typically growing only up to 3 inches tall we found this cluster buried deep in the grass.
It is a beautiful little flower and very unique to say the least.
Looking out into the West Elk WIlderness in central Colorado.
A day spent winding your way through open spaces is indeed a day well spent. From morning encounters with resting Elk to views of the mountains beyond.
The mid-day sun shines bright but a gentle breeze blows to cool things down.
As mid-day passes to afternoon the clouds begin to build and signal it’s time to go down.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend and perhaps some time in your favorite space.
On a recent hike through open grasslands with a few conifers mixed in we had a close encounter with this Northern Harrier who must of been defending a nearby nest. They were making plenty of noise and circling around above us as we walked the trail below. Occasionally they would dive bomb us flying straight overhead but never actually trying to make contact with us. We just pushed on through their territory walking a bit faster with each dive bombing pass yet pausing to watch this beautiful birds pass so close. Once we had ventured out of their space peace was had for all.
In a dark forest with just enough light a delicate Columbine dances.
On a recent hike across sage-lands dotted with forest the Sparrows were distant yet constant companions.
Painted Brush also called Indian Paint Brush has been blooming thick this summer in mountain meadows and sage-lands alike. It is one of our favorite wildflowers and comes in so many colors it begs the question of which we like best. Todays flavor is orange but that is certainly subject to change.
An even bigger question is do you order a single scoop, a double scoop or….
just sit down at the edge of the meadow and and enjoy the whole carton.
A misty morning sunrise over a leafless forest. Nice way to start the day.
nature has no boss 
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