Winter Water – snow and ice taking new forms

The only constant is change. Snow turns to ice; ice turns to water; water turns to rivers; rivers become oceans. And eventually, it comes back to land to start the cycle again.

Deschutes River, Tumalo State Park

Building crystals, Deschutes River, Tumalo State Park

Deschutes River, Tumalo State Park

Juniper droplet

Deschutes River, Tumalo State Park

Calm in the rush

End of the trail, Deschutes River

Deschutes River, Tumalo State Park

 

The Painted Hills in winter, an unfinished canvas

At first glance, covering the brilliant colors of the Painted Hills with snow seems an affront. Slowly, though, you realize the colors are more vivid and the landscape patterns surreal; it is a study in negative space. The intensity of the snow and depth of the shadows create an otherworldly effect that makes this fabulous place more so.

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Notes from the camper

I wonder if snails ever get tired of hauling their homes around on their backs.

When hermit crabs move out of outgrown shells, do they feel elated?

I offloaded the camper yesterday for the first time since July. I suddenly feel exposed and, at the same time, delighted that I am free of my shell. The truck feels like a zippy sports car without the extra weight but I have to learn to use the rearview mirror again.

I’m settling in Bend, Oregon, for the winter. Stay tuned. I’ll be adding posts along the way. It’s always an adventure.

 

 

 

The Road not Taken Enough