Pacific Northwest Snow and Ice Storm - 2014

Winter Blast

This small unnamed creek connects to the Columbia River just a few hundred yards south of the point that this photograph was taken. The winter blast that hit the Pacific Northwest last week left everything cloaked in white.

A Swan in Solitude

      Mimsi  Marsh

I took this photo just down our country lane at a murky wetland refuge called Mimsi Marsh. Although our neighborhood is nestled between a highway to the north and the Portland airport across the Columbia River, the wildlife still seem to enjoy the small portion of land protected just for them.

Dreaming of Spring!

   A Bit of Blue Sky

You could look at this photo and only see the frosty landscape, or you could note the bit of blue sky that is a prelude to spring - I choose to do the latter.

This shot was recently taken at one of my favorite local locations: Greenway Park.

The Columbia River from Wintler Park

Finding Local Beauty

Wintler Park is a popular local destination during the summer months; it was all but abandoned when I visited the site last week. However, I found it to be quite lovely on that dry and chilly morning. It's always great to appreciate the beauty in one's own backyard!

The Beauty of Winter's Gray

Moody and Mysterious

This photo was taken a couple of days ago at an urban park in the center of our city. Rarely does the temperature dip below freezing in our community since we're at such a low elevation. When I shot this photo it was 26 degrees! Ice, fog, and snow have a way of making nature a bit moody & mysterious!

Wildlife Wetland Refuge

     Mimsi Marsh

Just down our rural road is this wildlife wetland. With a nearby railroad, and Portland International Airport approximately a mile away, you wouldn't think that wildlife would like this spot - but they do!
(This marsh even made it into my manuscript for a middle grade novel.)

Honoring Their Lives

   A Path to Peace

May the families and friends of the victims of the recent violence find a path to peace in the days, months, and years ahead. I pray our nation will have the strength of character to make the tough decisions we must face. Let each of us reach out to those in need this holiday season.

Morning Along the Columbia River

Columbia River - viewed from Southwest Washington State

  Northwest Beauty

Last weekend we attended a function at the home of some friends. Their view of the Columbia River is breathtaking. We were lucky and had sunshine...at least for part of the day!