that 'determined dawn'

Looking back to the end of autumn, 2011, I remember this sky. The rays of that rising sun were shining through the clouds and reflected on Island Lake. Stunning light and shadows.

Linking to Skywatch Friday where the sky is the star of the week.

Already determined dawn began to lay

In place across a cloud the slender ray

For prying across a cloud the slender ray

For prying beneath and forcing the lids of sight,

And loosing the pent-up music of over-night.

from The Valley's singing Day by Robert Frost

open season for Orbit

This is what summer days should look like. A calm lake, blue skies, a fishing pole and

and a dog that can fish the bank for you. This guy, named Orbit, was 'walking' quickly back and forth in the shallow water looking for fish. His owner said he loves to fish. He didn't catch any while I was there.

Skywatch Friday where you can see the catch of the day!

Norwegians in Wisconsin

I took this photo from a motorcycle on a trip we took to Wisconsin along the Chippewa and Mississippi Rivers where we visited a wetland preserve that was on the migration path for Trumpeter Swans. The church sits outside of Nelson on flat ground, I was just a little 'atilt.'

'The first Norwegian settlers in Buffalo County were Ole Hansen Lerum, Jens J. Hovland, Erik Alme, Arne Ottesen Sørum and S. Arnesen, all from Lyster, Sogn...Lyster Evangelical Lutheran Congregation, that was founded at Urne in 1856, was the first Norwegian congregation in the county. Its first priest was K. Thorstensen of The Norwegian Synod.' [genealogy info found on-line here.]

Visit Skywatch Friday for photos of skies from all over the world. You'll want to join in the fun.

SkyWatch at Snail Lake

You can see a lot by just looking.

Yogi Berra

which I did one day as I walked in the woods by Snail Lake. To see more great photographs from all over the world for Sky Watch, visit its new site here.

SkyWatch Minnesota

I took this photo from the car window on a trip to southwestern Minnesota farmland. This is near Walnut Grove--of Little House on the Prairie fame--and very typical of the large sky and flat landscape where farmers grow feed corn, soy beans and alfalfa. Storms followed us all day and sent menacing clouds like these to tempt us to turn back.
For my views of the wide blue yonder for Skywatch, or to join in the fun, go to Wigger's World and ask for Tom.

Sparkle and Shine

Dreamy, early morn, White Bear Lake, Minnesota...taken on our customary walk after our weekly breakfast out. This is my favorite view of the lake, year round.

See more beautiful skies or join the fun at Skywatch hosted by the ever-helpful & talented Tom.