13-JAN-2017
A Frozen Perch
It was very cold this morning when I paid a visit to Delta Ponds, and never did get above freezing all day. There was still a lot of snow at the Ponds, even though we have only a few spots of it in shaded areas at home. I saw this female Hooded Merganser posed nicely while sitting on a log in Delta Ponds. It seemed to me that it would be an uncomfortable place to sit, as it is covered with ice. Maybe it was stuck to the log! :)
14-JAN-2017
Beauty in the Coburg Hills
The Coburg Hills are just a short drive away. They are located just northeast of Eugene, between the Mohawk Valley and Willamette Valley. They are included in the foothills of the western Cascade Range. Logging is done there as it is BLM land. I enjoy the drive there whenever there is a little snow blanketing the area. It makes for a pretty winter scene.
15-JAN-2017
Running Lights
Saw this boat in a front yard on Old Marcola Road and had to smile about those lights for decoration. I can picture that boat going down the river all lit up. :)
16-JAN-2017
Golden Light of Morning on the Willamette
I loved the golden light the morning sun cast on the Willamette River when I walked in Clearwater Park today. It was cool and crisp but the sun certainly gave a warm cast to everything. Great time to be out there! This is one of my favorite views.
17-JAN-2017
S Curve
Enjoyed a morning walk on the beautiful new Mill Race Path. As you may know, I love curves and this is a graceful one. I just couldn't resist photographing it.
18-JAN-2017
Leaf on Snow
Just trying to be a bit artistic! Did I succeed? Couldn't resist this colorful leaf and how it contrasted with the snow.
19-JAN-2017
Ribbon Cutting for the New Mill Race Path
A new biking/pedestrian path had its grand opening today. It's the Mill Race Path that runs from downtown Springfield for three miles to where it joins the Middle Fork Path that runs along the Willamette River to Dorris Ranch. The Mill Race Path is a worthy addition to the great places to walk and bike in Springfield. It is a part of the Willamalane Park system and it is beautiful.
See this video presentation by Willamalane Park District called 'Welcome to the Mill Race Path' -
20-JAN-2017
Sno foolin......around!
Don't worry, this railroad siding is not often used. It is used only when the mill needs cars to load. I stopped long enough to get a photo and then went merrily on my way. As foolish as it might look, there was no danger involved. :)
21-JAN-2017
The Colors of Winter
Winter can mean dark gray days to many, days that can bring a feeling of melancholy. For some, winter can be depressing and they wait for spring to bring relief. Personally, I find beauty in winter too. I see in this scene in Delta Ponds the orange of a type of willow found there and the deep reds or purples of other bushes as the colors of winter. It can be beautiful in the ponds in winter.
22-JAN-2017
After an Early Morning Rain
The sun came out while I was on an early morning walk today and as I crossed the Mohawk bridge over I-205, I was blessed with this view of traffic below, the results of the rain on the roadway creating a mist behind each vehicle. I liked the effect.
23-JAN-2017
Cormorant in the Spotlight
The morning sun spotlighted this cormorant as it flew overhead at the Georgia Pond along the new Mill Race Path. Even though the lighting on the bird is contrasty, there is something about it grabs me. It's not perfect, but I like it. :)
24-JAN-2017
Goldfinch, I Presume!
What a nice morning, sunny but cold, a fine day for a walk in Delta Ponds. While there I saw several birds, including this Goldfinch. I am guessing, with the assistance of my Birds of Oregon book, that it is an American Goldfinch. They are shy birds and difficult to get close to. This one stayed hidden in a bush. I managed to maneuver around a bit so I could get a clear shot, one that I really like.