As the temperature soared into the 90’s in the Twin Cities last Friday, we did what many Minnesotans do and headed “up north” for the weekend. A small cabin at Whitewood Resort overlooking Spirit Lake was the perfect relief. We spent the time keeping cool either by swimming in the lake or fishing. The first night we were treated to a beautiful glowing sunset with the reflection slicing through the wild rice that is in this lake. As I lay in bed that night I was lulled to sleep by the loons calling back and forth. We caught our share of sunfish and crappies the next day, watched an eagle swoop down and get his fish from the lake, and our second night was highlighted by a view of the Northern Lights as we sat on the dock with our feet in the lake. A few hours later, a storm rolled through with lightning and thunder and dropped the temperatures considerably. This morning we wandered amongst the many lakes in Aitkin County then shared lunch with good friends we haven’t seen in a long time. As we headed back to the cities we found ourselves refreshed and relaxed and thankful for a quick escape up north.
Photography
Fishing at the edge of the storm
Yesterday started with a gray cloud cover and comfortable temps. As the day wore on, the sun broke through and the heat started to build. Planning to take advantage of near-perfect fishing weather, we drove north about 50 miles to East Rush Lake. We enjoyed a dinner in the boat between pulling in sunfish and crappies, and I was looking forward to the sunset. Slowly, to the west, we could see storm clouds moving in, leaving a clear demarcation in the sky — blue sky white clouds and sunshine being taken over by dark gray and purple with white clouds developing within. Our timing was perfect; we made our way across the lake to the boat landing, trailered the boat, and then watched the far shore as the lightning and rain moved across the lake.
Sunset conversation
Our weather has been warm and humid, leaving two options for coping. First is to find some air conditioning and sequester yourself inside. Second is to hunt out a nearby lake and take in the cool breeze that blows across the surface. I sought out the second option one night this past week, as did others. The wind blew across this urban lake, rustling through the trees and dropping the temps considerably. A beautiful sunset was all that was needed to tell me that I’d chosen the better option. This couple seemed to be thinking the same thing, and relishing the end of another midsummer’s day.
Summer roses
We’re in the height of rose season – their colors and scents abound. We have a wonderful John Cabot climbing rose that blossoms out in profusion mid-June, becoming engulfed in a riot of color. I’ve had cuttings in almost every room of the house, and yet the bush itself remains full too. The blooms hold for many days and then they drop their petals all around – a reminder of their beauty even as they move past their prime.
Color on display
Living close to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds has its definite perks, one of which is being able to share in the excitement of the events and the people who attend them. This weekend was the Minnesota Street Rod Association’s Back to the 50’s celebration. The neighborhood has been filled will classic cars from before 1964. And it’s a great opportunity to photograph the colors and vehicles. I wandered from red to orange to yellow to blue to maroon – all in shiny finishes that picked up the reflections of the other cars around. At 9:00am as I was intent on photographing one lovely yellow Bel Air, the PA announcer came on to welcome the 11,500+ registrants for this year’s event. He then introduced the person to sing our National Anthem. All cars stopped, all engines were turned off, and everyone paused. When the singer was done, it is was back to the excitement and the colors that are hallmarks of this event.
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