We’ve just returned from a most relaxing and refreshing vacation. A mere four hours north, in the land of lakes and pines, is a sure spot to restore one’s spirit. The Minnesota north woods were calling us, and we were not disappointed. The weather was perfect with highs in the 70’s and lows in the 40’s. I photographed six beautiful (and equally different) sunsets, one full moonrise, three peaceful sunrises, and many adventures in between. We caught more than our share of bass, crappies, and sunfish. We canoed over an aqua-marine lake, and hiked through the woods. And during all of these we were accompanied by the sounds of the loons – a haunting yet wonderful call. Without the distractions of television, radio, news, and city-life we quickly decompressed into a life of quiet and simple pleasures, relaxation, and the appreciation of the beauty and wonder of this area of Minnesota.
fishing
July’s full moonrise
Yesterday was the full moon of July. I’d heard it referred to as the “supermoon” – appearing immense in size due to its proximity to the earth. As rainstorms moved into the area in the afternoon, I had given up any hope of seeing the moonrise. But the clouds parted and the skies cleared about 6:00pm. We had gone out for a night of fishing (which was not so weather-dependent), yet we lucked out in so many ways. The fish were biting, the sunset was beautiful, and it was quickly followed by the rising of the pink full moon. It cleared the trees on the east side of the lake, and let its reflection glisten in the still water below. For a short while it hung in the sky between the trees and the upper clouds, then quickly slid out of sight into the clouds. We stayed on the water for another half hour, and as we headed to the landing the moon cleared the clouds again, this time shining clear and white.
A quieter 4th of July
The long 4th of July holiday weekend has kept us in the Twin Cities. Rather than hurry to a northern lake, we decided to relax at home and make some shorter excursions. Between early morning bike rides, a Twins baseball game, and some tasks around the house and yard, we’ve enjoyed a relaxing weekend. On the evening of the 4th, we took our boat to Peltier Lake, one of the lakes near the edge of the metro area. The wind had been gusty all day and there was a threat of rain and storms, but it looked promising. As the sun set in the west it seemed to divide the lake and the sky. The clouds to the south kept that area in the dark, while the break to the north let the sun reflect off the sky and onto the water, almost a split-screen effect. The fishing was good, the weather held for us, and we were able to watch the fireworks all around us as we headed back to the boat landing.
Sunset fishing
The past week has been stormy and rainy, with downpours of historic amounts. What a delight to have a return to sunshine on Friday – it seemed as though everyone got outside to enjoy the warmth of summer again. The unsettled weather has also brought some amazing clouds, and on this night there was a beautiful reflection of light and dark, pink and gray, as the sun was setting in the west. The lake at Como Park was filled with people – walking or biking the paths around the lake, taking in the sunset, or fishing. Summer is short in Minnesota so it’s important to make the most of each wonderful evening.
Minnesota fishing opener weekend
This weekend has been the Minnesota fishing opener – a tradition of celebrating the beginning of open lakes and water, the promise of spring and summer, and the outdoor recreation of fishing. This is the weekend for the opening of walleye and Northern pike fishing – a time that finds all fisher-people out on the water. We have participated in this ritual for the past few years, heading north to some of our favorite lakes. This weekend we camped near Inguadona Lake and we were fortunate to be rewarded with a wonderful sunset. Although the day had been sunny and windy, with clouds around, the evening calmed and the sun broke through the clouds before setting. The reflection over the lake seemed fitting for the close of the day. As we later slipped into our tent, we drifted off to sleep with the sound of loons calling across the lake. All in all, a true Minnesota celebration of the fishing tradition and the North Woods and Lake Country.
lindastaatsphoto.com 