“The light is not very good for taking photographs,” Ric remarks as we turn onto the road along the river which has fast become our favourite drive.

“I know.”  

It’s not in my character to give up just because circumstances are not ideal.  In my mind, there are always photo opportunities.

The river flows inky blue, and as Ric slows the car on the lookout for birds, the wind blows up, bringing with it a shower of wet snow.  

“Stop!”  An eerie mist is hovering over the land and I want to get a picture.

‘Stop’ is our agreed upon command for when we see something worth photographing.  This road is gravel, and seldom travelled, so it is safe to pull over frequently.   

“Might be too cold for the birds.”

I refuse to be daunted, determined to capture a reasonable number of photos.  Barren trees line the road, deserted nests reminders of the vibrancy of this place just weeks ago.  It is almost haunting.

We creep along, and just as I begin to think that Ric might be right about the birds, there is a flurry of activity.

“Stop!”

We roll down our windows as blue jays, chickadees, juncos and woodpeckers flock to nearby branches.  Despite the greyness of the day, I am pleased with how some of these characters showed up:

Blue jays are seldom this compliant.

There is nothing sweeter than the chirp of a chickadee.

I think I feel a painting or two coming on.

***

This week’s focus has been on character.  A special thanks to all who participated:

Proscenium

Somewhere Sea

Culture Shocks

Willow Poetry

Cactus Cats

Sgoeil

See you tomorrow for a new challenge!