the view through my lens: February 2013

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Spring Green--Unexpectedly

The color challenge this month at 2Peas is Spring Green, and that's what I thought of when I saw this variety of hydrangea. Such an unusual combination in a flower, but so pretty and refreshing!

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Windowbox Beauty

It's been grey, wet and gloomy, so I took myself off to my favorite nursery for some color and light. They always have the BEST displays. Loved this garden shed. I want this in my yard!

Monday, February 25, 2013

Spring is on the way!!

Imagine my delight to find this group of snowdrops blooming, looking like a drift around the base of the tree.

This variety of daffodil is called "February Gold". There's a good reason for that--who doesn't need that punch of brightness in the dreary days of February?

My favorite harbinger of spring...pussy willows!!

Friday, February 22, 2013

On our way back from Nisqually Wildlife Refuge, after the morning cloud cover had lifted--what a treat for our eyes! The Mountain was out! (Here in the Northwest, when the clouds lift enough for Mt. Rainier to be visible, we say that the Mountain is out). ML and I were so excited to see it in all its snow-covered glory that we opted to take back roads part of the way home to chase the view.

As we started to round the mountain (yes, we were comin' round the mountain...) the atmospheric conditions and light changed just enough to make it a little hazier and to change the temperature of the color of the mountain. I never ever tire of this view!!!

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Of Barns and Fences

There are 2 old barns, named the Twin Barns, on the pathways at the Wildlife Refuge. When I first passed them, the morning clouds hadn't burned off yet, and everything was grey and gloomy. The moodiness called for a black and white interpretation.

About 45 minutes later, the sun had shown up and I was on the opposite side of the barns. Perfect view complete with old split rail fence.

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

At the Edge

Just can't resist an abstracted reflection....

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Shoreline Sentinel

Don't you love the way the wind was ruffling the feathers on the top of his head? Great topknot!

Saturday, February 16, 2013

Birding

We had A dry day this week that promised to be sunny, so ML and I took off and went down to the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge to enjoy the weather and look for birds. It was a glorious day! We had heard that there were some baby owls nesting within viewing distance of a trail, so that's where we headed. I have loved owls since forever, and the chance to see some owlets was almost more than I could stand.

We found the spot by the array of tripods and SERIOUS lenses. I immediately came down with a bad case of lens lust...but knowing the price of these babies, it was easy to overcome. I consoled myself with the thought that I could rent one. Of course, I may need a better tripod and head as well. What a slippery slope....

It was fun watching the serious birders. Some of the megalenses weren't black, but were camo; I knew these were the guys who went into blinds stalking their subjects. They stood there with binoculars to their eyes, remote in hand, and the minute something occurred you could hear a "click click click" as the burst modes went off.

There I was with my much shorter tripod and my 70-300 much slower lens. But, I figured I was way better off than the people who were using their iPhones for photos. (seriously?? Of something at least 100 yds. off back in the woods and well camouflaged?)

And so, here are a few shots of the adorable little Great Horned Owl babies. They were nestled in the hollow in this tree, up about 30' I think. Since it was day, they were having a hard time staying awake.

The one of the left finally gave in, shortly followed by the sibling on the right. I could've watched them all day. Sure wish I'd had a longer and faster lens, but these will do. Not great, but they represent the memory of a lovely little encounter. The adult was on the other side of the path, perched on a branch next to the trunk of a tree. There were so many branches in the way that I just couldn't get a shot...you could just barely discern the owl shape. But, a thrill nonetheless.