Posts Tagged ‘minnesota’

Another Evening at Chester Woods Park — June 24, 2008

Tuesday, June 24th, 2008

I went for another paddle yesterday. The lake was calm — smooth as glass. Of course, I had to visit the eagles. I think they’re getting used to me…. they were definitely cooperative. The 2 adults sat in one tree… not exactly side by side but close enough so I didn’t have to move between photographing each of them.

Eagle at Chester Woods -- Click on photo for larger view
Eagle at Chester Woods -- Click on photo for larger view
Eagle at Chester Woods -- Click on photo for larger view

Across the lake, this year’s young one had left the nest, exploring the tree it resides in. It’s the first time I’d seen it out of the nest. Won’t be long now before it starts flying.

Eagle at Chester Woods -- Click on photo for larger view

On the way back to the landing, I took a few photos in the fading light.

Rinkled Reflections -- Click on photo for larger view
Subtle Sunset -- Click on photo for larger view
Smooth Reflection -- Click on photo for larger view
Paddling off into the sunset -- Click on photo for larger view

I sure do like having this place close by!

Last Night

Friday, June 13th, 2008

Last night, I took advantage of a break in the weather to go paddling at Chester Woods. First time since we lost Frodo so it was definitely a bittersweet event.

Thanks to all our recent rain, the lake was about 10 feet higher than usual. I paddled past sunken fishing piers, picnic tables and trash cans. The dock at the boat launch was a few yards from shore.

Fantastic cloud formations reflected in the calm water.

Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view
Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view

The bow of my canoe sure was empty without Frodo sitting there.

Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view
Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view

There was an eaglet on the nest I’ve been observing for the last several years. I took a bunch of obligatory shots but none worth sharing. Mostly, I just concentrated on the clouds. And, searching, in vain, for the turkeys gobbling along the shoreline.

Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view
Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view
Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view
Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view
Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view

With the clouds, I was expecting a spectacular sunset. While definitely nice, it didn’t live up to expectations.

Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view
Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view

Although I stayed fairly late, I wasn’t anywhere near the last one off the water. It was such a nice evening, it was tough to leave. Yes, Frodo was missed but I definitely still enjoyed the paddle.

Reflections in Chester Lake -- Click on photo for larger view

Photo du Jour — June 10, 2008

Tuesday, June 10th, 2008


Today's PDJ -- Click on photo for larger view

Campsite on Crooked Lake
August 9, 2007

View of our campsite
and the lake beyond.

Nikon D70 with Tokina 12-24mm lens.


Photo du Jour — June 9, 2008

Monday, June 9th, 2008


Today's PDJ -- Click on photo for larger view

Storm Clouds over Crooked Lake
August 9, 2007

We had a brief, morning shower
at our campsite near Lower Basswood Falls.

Nikon D70 with Tokina 12-24mm lens.


Photo du Jour — June 8, 2008

Sunday, June 8th, 2008


Today's PDJ -- Click on photo for larger view

Storm Clouds over Crooked Lake
August 9, 2007

Our next morning started out cloudy.

We had decided to take a layover day in this beautiful area
near Lower Basswood Falls.

Nikon D70 with Tokina 12-24mm lens.