I had many plans for this winter, most of which fizzled, and now I look around and see the cherry blossoms in full bloom.  While the east and west coast of the United States feel the effects of global climate change very differently, I can’t help but wonder if next winter will be even warmer, or if our city will be shut down by a blizzard it’s not prepared for.  Either way I feel that I am prepared to capture it in all of its glory more than ever, as I was able to take the time to research many locations for whatever is in store for me.

I knew that it was a very warm February, but when I drove up to Mirror Lake this month I didn’t expect to see a completely iceless lake.  I was actually hoping for a little ice, but from the looks of it, the ice was long gone.  I watched a nice sunset, while several people came and left until the stars came out.  I was hoping for a Milky Way shot, but clouds quickly filled the empty sky, so I took a few shots before heading home.

The Oregon Coast is a priority for me right now since we have very little snow.  It’s so vast and there are so many uniquely different locations to explore.  Below is Seal Rock.  I can’t tell you how many waves I was hit by here, but I think it was a lot like being the coach who won the super bowl; you know you’re going to get soaked, yet you’re still surprised when that cold water dumps on you.  One lady told me not to fall in, so I took her advice.  I hope they enjoyed the light show, as much as they did my “shower”.

And then there’s this little Gem that Dan Sherman found called Roads End Point.  I’ve seen a few sunsets in my day, and this one is right up there.  This place has a KILLER comp (hopefully no pun intended) for someone willing to put their life on the table.  For now I’ll just settle for this magnificent display of lighting!  It’s funny, I found this composition the first time Dan took me here, but my lens broke and was unable to capture it.  All I have to say about that is apology accepted.

Here is another shot of that magnificent lighting…

And another as the light started to fade.

Next up!  Spring time!  Oh, do I have some plans for spring!!!