During a stretch of leaden skies and snow that makes it necessary to dress like the young boy from The Christmas Story, I begin to think we are living in Fargo, North Dakota rather than New Mexico.  The weather really is changing, making me yearn for the time when a storm from the west coast of the United States would flow over New Mexico, drop its precipitation, and vacate the state, leaving blinding sunshine in its wake.  We New Mexicans are spoiled in that respect. The current precipitation is desperately needed, given last year's severe drought, and winter moisture is what conifers like the piñon and juniper here on the high mesa require.  Recent weather events effecting us have come from the coast of Baja, California, rather than directly from the west, and they stay longer. That is the difference.  Our snow shoveling skills are being honed. It is hard to believe we were sweating mere months ago and are now fantasizing about sunshine and warmth.  Part of the human condition. Luckily, four solid seasons grace New Mexico and there almost always is a February thaw.  Until then, I will continue to pull my camera out of its case, and search for (or create) surprises in the winter landscape.  

The two images below relay well the "Fargo" feeling of the landscape this morning.  

adobe wall and pinon in snow west side

adobe wall and pinon in snow

And the blue sky begins to break through.

mountains and mesa in snow

 If you are in the northern hemisphere, please keep safe and warm while you are photographing winter.

until next Monday,

DB

a passion for the image@