“In everything you do, act without grumbling or arguing; prove yourselves innocent and straightforward, children of God beyond reproach in the midst of a twisted and depraved generation—among whom you shine like the stars in the sky while holding fast to the word of life.”

– Philippians 2

Out exploring an area that I’ve never seen, a nature preserve just west of my home. I’ve lived here 30 years and never knew it was here! (Mound Prairie Scientific and Natural Area)

It was quite a hike to get to a place that had a good view to the west, and I ended up standing sideways at about a 45 degree angle to get a shot, trying not to end up rolling down the hill a few hundred feet! But the clouds looked magnificent and it was worth it.

The primitive non-maintained trail leading up to the lookout.

The happy hiker and toy. I decided to sell all of my DSLR cameras and went entirely “mirrorless” a few months ago. This is my Nikon Z-6 camera. So much more lightweight! I also use the Nikon Z-50, which is half the weight of the Z-6, for everyday walking around.

O Lord, plead my cause against my foes; *
fight those who fight me.
Take up your buckler and shield; *
arise to help me.

O Lord, say to my soul: *
“I am your salvation.”

But my soul shall be joyful in the Lord *
and rejoice in his salvation.
My whole being will say: *
“Lord, who is like you
who rescue the weak from the strong *
and the poor from the oppressor?”

… Psalm 35

Out for a motorcycle ride. The forest fires way out west are causing hazy skies here in the Midwest, and making for some amazing sunsets! The sun seemed to be sitting on top of this silo.

Climbing the “mountains” of La Crosse Wisconsin with my Son and Grand Kids.

Spending time with the Lord in silence and solitude is necessary for all life.

Ok, not really photography related, not even my video. But it’s my blog and I can do whatever I want, right? 😉

In a way, this IS related to the kind of photography I like to do. I like to show things in the world that most people just pass by and don’t notice.
The world is a crappy place now…….only it isn’t. Only the news paints it that way. Most of the world is wonderful. Most people are wonderful. Our lives are as good or as bad as we make them. I think someone very wise once said that we can’t change what happens, but we can change our reaction to it.

This video is a great example of that. On a cold dreary Monday morning, a bunch of depressed looking people are on a subway, on the way to work. When…..

I see the bad moon arising
I see trouble on the way
I see earthquakes and lightnin’
I see bad times today

Don’t go around tonight
Well, it’s bound to take your life
There’s a bad moon on the rise

-Creedence Clearwater Revival

Walked out on the deck early in the morning this week, and saw this, an orange moon! I was temped to start howling, but the neighbors already have reason to worry about me…

Experimenting with unconventional photography. Everyone is always obsessed with sharpness. But sometimes, fuzziness is a good thing. I purposely made these totally out of focus. Perhaps it’s a commentary on our world as it’s become these days…

Prayer from Sext today (noon prayer):

Lord Jesus Christ,
at noon, when darkness covered all the earth,
you mounted the wood of the cross
as the innocent victim for our redemption.
May your light be always with us
to guide us to eternal life in that kingdom
where you live and reign for ever and ever.

I was out for a motorcycle ride last night. The full moon was rising and there, along Highway 21 near Hokah, MN, this sight appeared! Just had to stop and take the shot.

“How great is the goodness, Lord, *
that you keep for those who fear you,
that you show to those who trust you *
in the sight of men.

You hide them in the shelter of your presence *
from the plotting of men:
you keep them safe within your tent *
from disputing tongues.”

Psaml 31

Lots of pastoral scenes in the area lately. It was so nice and cool yesterday so went for a nice motorcycle ride with my son.

Mount Hosmer, Lansing, Iowa:

Wisdom from above is first of all innocent. It is also peaceable, lenient, docile, rich in sympathy and the kindly deeds that are its fruits, impartial and sincere. The harvest of justice is sown in peace for those who cultivate peace.

James 3:17-18

I was watching a video about the great Ansel Adams, photographer.
He did most (all?) of his photography in black & white, mostly landscapes.
Kinda gave me the itch to do a little myself. I’ve always liked black & white.
Seems less distracting somehow.

Walking in the park, I found this fella just strummin’ and singin’ !

Eagle getting chewed out!

Eagles nest near Hokah MN