

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Out of the Shadow

Do you suppose, because I live in the shadow of a very tall mountain for four months every winter, that I go completely bonkers when I get out of that shadow into direct sunlight?

You think that's the reason? Is that why I can't drive by Trail Lake on the way to the post office without scoping out the photo possibilities.

And Kenai Lake, which still hasn't frozen over despite temperatures below zero for what seems like months. There's always just enough of a current or breeze to keep the surface crinkled and "unfreez-able."

Is that escape from shadow why I take pictures of snow-laden trees with the sun highlighting them--on my way to the dump?

Or back up and park at a pull-out beside Trail River to get a shot of the sun behind this spruce while vapor rises from an open spot in the river?

Even the setting sun as it reaches distant peaks makes me stop on the highway and get out the camera.

Do you suppose that's why?

Or, is it really that stunning?

(NOTE: Click on the pix to enlarge them, then click again for full screen.)


  1. It really is that stunning! You are a lucky girl to have such wonderful car rides.

  2. After months of living in shadow, I suspect you go bonkers when faced with the light of day. On top of that, the scenery is stunning.

    Another plus, you're getting exercise climbing in and out of your truck to capture the scenes.

  3. I can't imagine living in a mountain shadow for four months. Luckily, I still have sunlight coming in my windows for a few hours a day. Beautiful pictures! We are getting some snow today, so maybe our trees will be pretty like yours again soon.

  4. Absolutely stunning! Though I'm thinking I'd go a little bonkers living in a shadow for 4 months. I'd be taking lots of drives to find sunshine :)
    Have a wonderful 2011!