As I did for my 2016 review, I am again reminding myself of the motto expressed on a historic clock in downtown Colorado Springs: Dum Vivimus Vivamus. While we live, let us live. The greater my disenchantment with political, religious, and familial strife, the more I seek refuge in nature, camera in tow. Next … Continue reading The Year in Pictures/Das Jahr in Bildern
Observing birds in their natural setting is one of my favorite pastimes. Because most will not tolerate being approached, binoculars are generally indispensable. Seeing wild birds from up close is a rare privilege, and banding stations (or ringing stations, for British English speakers) offer such views. One I am familiar with and have visited repeatedly … Continue reading A Silver Ring
For weeks the unmistakable signs of approaching autumn have advertised the change in seasons, yet they coexist with vestiges of estival exuberance. Still, butterflies drink deeply of the sweet nectar of friendly flowers whose vital force continues to pulsate. Still, the sun warms the air and lights the days, though they are growing shorter. Birds … Continue reading Change
Certain locations exert strong powers over our imagination. One such charmed destination for me is Manitou Lake in neighboring Teller County. I think of it as “Serenity Lake” which captures its character perfectly, as I was reminded during an excursion in late July/early August. The lake is nestled in an idyllic broad mountain valley which … Continue reading Serenity Lake
At the height of summer, after an evening of sustained rains, Fountain Creek is a ruddy river. The mountains remain shrouded in layers of clouds. Instead of paths there are puddles, the air is pregnant with moisture, and the vegetation with dewy droplets. Slightly sluggish avian and insect activity accelerates with the rising sun. Alas, … Continue reading Summer Sorrow
tanja britton 