Sunrise

 

Frozen

Winter Storm Fern has coated our town in inches of sleet, now frozen into glassy ice. With the temperature sitting at 16°F, we ventured out to take it all in… and, of course, to go to Waffle House.

One squirrel watched us like we had lost our minds. I don’t think I’ve ever been judged so harshly by wildlife.

 

Snowberry Clearwing

Looking like a fascinating cross between a bee and a hummingbird, this little visitor appeared among the blossoms of my Texas Sage. I had never encountered such a creature before, so its presence caught me completely by surprise. Curious, I did a bit of research to figure out what it might be, and it seems that it may actually be wandering a bit outside of its usual range. Regardless, it was a delightful discovery—an unexpected guest that brought both wonder and beauty to my garden.

Old Iron Bridge

Originally constructed to span the Trinity River in Arlington, this historic bridge was later relocated to Euless, where it crossed Bear Creek on Main Street. In the 1970s, it was replaced by a modern structure designed for greater traffic capacity. Rather than being dismantled, the bridge was preserved and moved to South Euless Park, where it now stands as a cherished historical landmark.

Storm Watch

Earlier this week, a series of storms rolled through the area, leaving the air crisp and charged with a quiet energy. The next morning, as I stepped outside, the sky put on a breathtaking display. Thick clouds still lingered, but where they curved and parted, slender beams of sunlight pierced through, casting a soft, ethereal glow. It was as if the sky itself was gently backlit, each cloud edged in light, creating a scene both dramatic and serene.

Seatbelts are for Safety

Wildflowers

A splash of color to brighten the day—wildflowers have a way of catching the eye and lifting the spirit. Their natural beauty offers a welcome distraction, a gentle reminder to pause and appreciate the simple joys that nature provides.

The Reader

The Mary Lib Saleh Euless Public Library in Euless, TX stands out as the public library with the most monuments I’ve ever seen. Just outside its entrance, there’s a particularly touching memorial that immediately caught my attention. What makes it especially heartwarming is the inclusion of the man’s dog as part of the tribute. Even more meaningful is the fact that the dog’s head remains shiny and free of patina—clearly from the many people who have lovingly rubbed it over time. It’s a quiet, beautiful reminder of the deep bond between humans and their loyal companions.

Joe Pool

The waves of Joe Pool Lake, just outside of Dallas, TX, gently beat against the shore, their rhythmic motion creating a calming, almost meditative sound. The water rolls in with a quiet persistence, shaping the landscape with every ebb and flow. It’s a peaceful scene, where nature’s steady pulse contrasts with the bustling city not far away, reminding you of the quiet power of the water.

 Also linked to: Sunday Best.

Ave Maria, Gratia Plena…

Scenic Surprise

 

Scenic wonders can be found in the most unexpected places, if you take the time to look. These particular ducks, calmly gliding across a small pond tucked behind a rest area on the way to Houston, are a perfect example. It’s a quiet, serene moment that many might overlook, yet it holds its own beauty. The stillness of the water, the peaceful movement of the ducks, and the simple yet soothing scene create a reminder that nature has a way of surprising you—even in the midst of a busy journey.

 Also linked to: Sunday Best.

Geometric

When you arrive at the GeO-Deck of Reunion Tower, one of the first things you'll notice is the unique interior design—the walls are adorned with geometric shapes that are backlit and constantly shifting in color. The subtle, ever-changing glow adds a dynamic and modern touch to the space.

Though the design is relatively simple, it’s a surprisingly captivating feature that complements the futuristic feel of the landmark and enhances the overall experience.

Dallas

Reunion Tower offers an incredible vantage point of the Dallas skyline—one that feels straight out of the iconic opening sequence from the classic TV show Dallas. Standing up there, you can truly appreciate the scale and character of the city.

Although my visit happened to fall on a cloudy day, the view was still absolutely stunning. The low-hanging clouds added a dramatic, almost cinematic feel to the landscape. That said, I’d love to return on a clear day to see the skyline in all its sunlit glory.

Wild Encounter

My work campus is home to some beautiful natural areas, including serene wooded sections and even a creek that winds through the property. With such a scenic setting, it's no surprise that local wildlife occasionally makes an appearance.

The other day, I came across a turtle trying to cross one of the trails. It looked startled and froze up as I approached, so I gently picked it up and placed it safely in the bushes on the side it was headed toward. Hopefully, it continued on its journey without too much stress.

What really caught me off guard was its size—it was nearly a foot long and about seven inches wide. Definitely one of the largest turtles I've encountered here in Texas!

Giũ Xe

 

Just Floating

The ocean has always held a certain fascination for me; there’s something about its vastness, its power, and its mystery that draws me in. But even more captivating are the people who live and work on the water—their connection to the sea runs deep, and their lives are shaped by its rhythms.

These boats in Galveston, TX, are poised and waiting for their next adventure. They are more than just vessels; they are the lifelines of hardworking crews who venture out into the Gulf, fishing the waters to bring fresh, local seafood to the tables of hungry people. Each journey is an act of both skill and courage, a testament to the timeless relationship between humans and the ocean. It's a world that remains as wild and vital as the waters they navigate.

Spider Friend

This impressive wolf spider took up residence in my garage over the winter, patrolling the space like a little guardian. Surprisingly, it was quite friendly—often emerging from its hiding spot as if to say hello whenever I came around. As the seasons changed and spring arrived, I watched it scurry out into the warmth of the world beyond the garage, ready to resume its wild life. I wish it well on its journey and hope it thrives out there, feasting on all the pests it can find. A true unsung hero of the ecosystem.

Eyeshadow

 This little anole has made the aloe plant in my backyard its favorite hangout spot. I often see it lounging there year after year, blending in surprisingly well—except for the vivid colors around its eyes. Those bright markings always catch my attention, like it's wearing a touch of makeup. I can't help but wonder if it's getting ready for a party or showing off for a potential date. Whatever the reason, its bold look adds a splash of unexpected charm to my backyard.

Squirrel!

A cheerful squirrel eyed me with curiosity as it scurried along the ground, searching intently for nuts or any other tasty treasures. Surprisingly, the little creature let me get quite close—close enough to snap a few clear photos. It must be fairly accustomed to people, perhaps a regular visitor to this area.

While squirrels can sometimes be a bit of a nuisance—raiding bird feeders or sneaking into places they don't belong—they're undeniably fascinating animals. Their quick movements, clever problem-solving, and bushy-tailed charm make them fun to observe. Watching this one go about its day was a small, unexpected delight.

 

Twisted

Decades of storms and relentless winds have shaped this tree into a striking natural masterpiece. Its gnarled branches twist and reach with a weathered elegance, while the deep grooves in its bark form intricate patterns, like nature’s own etchings. The scars left behind by fallen branches tell silent stories of past battles with the elements, adding to its rugged beauty. Each knot and fissure contributes to its unique character, making the tree not just a part of the landscape, but a living sculpture crafted by time itself.