The Rains of Winter Bring Spring Beauty

January 10th, 2009

Raining still in the world of Western Washington, however, immersed in winter, I can't help to look to the beauty of spring with all the rain and moisture we have been getting. I was up hiking near Snoqualmie , and couldn't help but just look at everything in amazement. Landslides were abundant, with downed trees and instant streams, which will be featured later this week.

The Color Steps

January 10th, 2009

What color are your steps? I found these colorful renditions on the entryway to a local community garden in Belltown. There is no sign saying how long they have been here, so the age on these is unknown. I am looking forward to making a return visit in the spring time as the florals come into bloom.

Aren't You Glad You Aren't A Those Rocks

January 9th, 2009


The pummeling you or I might take during a basketball game or polo match is nothing compared to the daily beating the rocks at the bottom of Snoqualmie Falls today, a day after the rains have ceased in Western Washington. As the rains have stopped the flooding has subsided, however, that does not mean there is no large amount of water, as the thunderous falls prove.

Raging Waters

January 8th, 2008

In keeping with the flood theme I thought it would be prudent to continue uploading some photos from throughout the day. After a brief break in the rain, it has begun anew. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those stranded and in need. Please share your thoughts of these.

An Island to Behold

January 8th, 2009

With the devastation continuing in our Western Washington Region I set out to capture some of the moments which follow. I was able to travel to an area which was be struck by water and rivers are still on the rise. At least 30,000 people have been evacuated in the region according to several of the latest news reports and many people are heading those very warnings;thankfully. However, some were not as lucky as you can see with the two cows, a mother and her calf, stranded on a grassy knoll, similar to their owners who are holed up in a house just north of them. Even with all the devastation and tragedy, beauty can be found in the smallest of places. The third picture is taken of one of the small tributaries which have magically appeared. According to the owner this majestic stream is normally," Just a Ditch". A ditch it may have been, breathtaking is how it was found.

A Softness

January 8th, 2009

Tragedy has cascaded the Northwest for what seems like the umpteenth time in the last month. Record setting rainfall mudslides, avalanches has literally left the Puget Sound Region on an island, there the only place possible to reach is Canada. Driving to out of the region is actually physically impossible as of this moment. Here at A Watchful Wanderer we send our thoughts and prayers to those who are in danger. This picture was taken with emphasis to show the vast difference 24 hours as the rainfall piles up at an astounding 1/2 inches an hour.

If you would like to make a donation to those in crisis I encourage you to visit the Red Cross

Water 'A Risin

January 7th, 2009

In the Pacific Northwest, we are blessed with hundreds if not thousands of nature preserves and parks(top state parks in Washington State) to peruse and meander. This one (North Creek Park)is a favorite of mine not only because of its proximity, but due to its abundance of wildlife for its relative size. Ducks, geese, water fowl, beavers, and many others call this small parcel of land home, and offer an up close and stunning experience in the middle of the week.

Circa 1940

January 7th, 2009

On a wintry day in early 2009, I was able to catch this authentic 1940's barn and outhouse near a nature reserve in northern Seattle. The ability for the green to really stand out on a bland day makes for a striking picture which accentuates the rustic and antique look of the buildings.

Looking To The Future

January 7th, 2009

Being in the midst of winter, or at least what feels like it, I thought it would be nice to snag this photo from late last year and hope to look forward to taking those evening jogs in the late summer's eve. With the roller coaster year 2008 brought us, it is somewhat relieving to look forward to what might be.

I snapped this picture on the edge of Myrtle Edges Park on the water. It has a great running trail and is a prime place for dog spotting and early morning sunrises over the cascades, and sunsets which fall directly behind the Olympic Mountains. Seattle has sure grown from its "Sleepless In Seattle" days.

The Protective Thistle

December 29th, 2008

On the recent holiday stretch, I had the opportunity to travel to the eastern side of Washington state which had just finished its largest snowfall of record in Spokane. Yet, as the sun came out and began to melt away the piled up mass of frozen H2O, I found this pile geared up and ready for the sun, behind a protective layer of yet to fall, Autumn. It was great to see the sunshine, even if for the briefest of moments.

As of right now Spokane was still recording measurable snowfall and starting the new year off with a hefty plow.

The Endless Wanderer

October 23rd, 2007

Airports can be a drag, literally. Yet on this day as I was preparing to head back to my classroom in Montana, I was able to find a hallway which, by being long and cavernous, can be seen as a work of art to some. Lovely Seatac Airport.

Glowing

January 3rd, 2009

Even though it is supposed to be a time for new beginnings, I found a clear, night to revisit a place from the past. Kerry park, in all its glory presented me once again with absolutely delicious views of a lighted up Seattle night line. With a brisk chill in the air, one must be quick about ones business, however, if you are patient, as I have said before, you are rewarded with a view(once the clouds clear). Even though most people associate rainy and gloom with the Emerald City, it is actually bright in comparison with Sunny San Francisco, which averages 185 days of fog.

for more info on Kerry Park, Check out these two sites

Seattle Parks

Information about Kerry Park

A Foggy Encounter

November 28th, 2008

On a foggy day I was able to snap this in a jiffy. The trees seem to stretch with an eerie skinniness to the top of the frame, lined with only their bare branches, barely making in through a frozen winter. As quickly as they appear, they vanish. Gazing to the left the fog envelopes the trees as there ceases to be trees, only fog. I was able to snap this on the Moutains to the Sea Cascade Highway. If you ever get a chance to take the scenic drive and take it slow, you can be offered some very stunning arrays of mountainous terrain and sweeping landscapes.

Upside Down World?

February 2nd, 2008

Do you ever think someone has done this to your life, turn it upside down, so that you all the weight is anchored on one sole pinky finger? Somehow you manage to survive the dire mess which you have undoubtedly gotten yourself into. Just as this building seems to stand up to the elements which pummel it relentlessly on a minute, by minute basis.

It seems many people don't know the name to this building, so if you do please share the knowledge

More links:

This building can be found in Strange Architecture, and I highly recommend sneaking a peak when in downtown Seattle

Caught in the Middle

June 22, 2005

This is one of my favorite shots. I will allow the picture to speak for itself.

The ROCK

May 16th, 2006,

We have all been this rock at one time or another. Holding fast against the current which is not only moving past us, but also swirling back for another go at it. Yet, it stands the test of time. With a cascading of powerful water we have to find what allows us to keep our feet on solid ground and fight our own battles against a raging river.

Flag of Our Forefathers

April 9th, 2008

During a routine walk to school, one can be reminded of all the sacrifices made for that freedom. For those who paid the ultimate sacrifice, a simple thank you is never enough, yet, it seems the whole of English language cannot fathom a word to encompass a passionate, emotion which simply... there are no words.

The Calm Before the Storm

December 17th, 2008,

This picture is sunset on the eve of one of the worst series of storms the Northwest has seen in the last two decades (King5.com) Yet, here is a solid red hue of blissfulness and a sweet surrender to whatever arises to the next morn.

Found an interesting poem about the storm here. It might make you laugh... beware.

http://blog.seattlepi.nwsource.com/thebigblog/archives/158582.asp?source=rss

Glowing Snowdrops

At a time of year when snow is expected it can come with such great surprise. However, there is something magical about waking up in the morning and opening the curtain only to find a cool, warm blanket of snow. The silence which accompanies the "Majestic White" is unmistakable. You can hear your inner most thoughts, and, also, it might possibly be the only time you actually listen to the sound and rhythm of your own breathing, quiet, interrupted by a slight rush of wind through your rapidly freezing lungs.

Pathways to..........?

November 30th, 2008

A pathway can have many connotations, however they all mean something different ever person. One path might allow someone to recall a time in the park, for another it might bring a chuckle as you reminisce on a time you fell on a pathway. However, the meanings may be different to each one they still have an underlying theme, they lead us ........somewhere....

Where do pathways lead you?


For more info on Martha Lake Park

In the Blink of an Eye

July 8th, 2008
In the blink of an eye!
That is all it takes, the world could end, you could fall in love, hit the game winning shot, lose your job, discover you had a long lost brother.

It seems as time goes on the need for speed and instant gratification can overwhelm us, however, if we take that one blink of an eye to take a breath, or smile, or give the one we love a kiss, now that blink of an eye is timeless.

To Build My Fire

May 18th, 2008

A fire can have a strangely entrancing effect on the spirit and mind. If you have ever been privileged to have a bonfire or take a climb deep into the forest, you have undoubtedly been privy to the experience of losing yourself in the chaotically orchestrated dance of firelight. Somehow, the deep glowing embers call out to use, to use it, them, as a gateway inside ourselves.

Its as if this moment in time is paused, and you are able to not only glance but separate your life out, find meaning, if only for the next day, and embark on your journey. It can take you back to the "glory"days, transport you forward to a log cabin somewhere as you hear your grandchildren playing outside, whatever "that" moment is.

Fire, without question, has a soothing effect on us all.

A Soft Touch

August 16th, 2008
As I was preparing to leave Arkansas, on what was a sad and hastened trip, I was able to catch this calm moment of beauty stretching out on the horizon. For whatever reason, there seams to be some kind of balance here, as the ground rises up, the the threes meet the sky, there is only a slight moment where the trees are separated from the radiant fingers of the sun, for one last chance of photosynthesis for the daylight hours.

Growing Dawn

December 5, 2008

I have been eager to get up to Kerry Park for some time now. Even though it is the cliche, place to take pictures of the Seattle skyline, it has that reputation for a reason. The sight line is incredible and rewards patience if you are willing to watch a full sunrise. Some of the pictures rewarded in this morning are some of my favorite of all time. However, it can get somewhat crowded, and if you are an amateur do not be too intimidated by professionals who happen to take up residence alongside you.

This very morning I was blessed to be shooting next to a pro. A gentleman who happened to be a lens tester for Canon! How in the world do you get that job? Yet, I failed to ask this single question, due to the awe inspiring vista which lay before us.

Wilkomen!

Welcome to my Blog!

I have seen a million people do this throughout the years and thought it would be a good place for peoples to see my showcase, and pictures which have, and currently am taking.

I hope you will enjoy your trip as you experience my life through thine eyes. If you have any suggestions or would like to see a picture of something in particular, I am very open to suggestions. I look forward to hearing from you!!!