Dianne

Mccarthy

“It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it.”
by John Burroughs (1837 - 1921) American naturalist and essayist.

“When your barn is well filled all snug and secure, Be thankful to God and remember the poor.”
This inscription (1863) is carved in stone on a wall at Rockwood Academy, Rockwood, Ontario, Canada.

Sub-freezing temperatures combined with sunny days form the most unlikely artwork of Mother Nature - icicles, which are always pretty in scenic photos of winter wonderlands.

Cheeky seagulls are always eager to prove they’re the best photobombers in the animal kingdom!

Capturing sunrise near the historic Mnjikaning Fish Weirs is a spiritual experience. This site contains the largest and best preserved wooden fish weirs known in eastern North America, in use from about 3300 B.C. It is a sacred place that represents an ancient and ongoing sacred bond between the Creator and all living things. Designated a national historic site of Canada in 1982.

Sunrise is my favourite time to be shooting. Just when I think I’m seeing the best of the morning, the colours might become even richer or clouds move in to create beautiful textures.

“It was one of those perfect fall days
when the air is cool enough to wake you up
but the sun is also kissing your face.”
by Anita Diamant

“Everyone needs a place to retreat;
a spot where the world grows quiet enough
for the soul to speak.”
by Angie Weiland-Crosby

“I hope I can be the Autumn leaf,
who looked at the sky and lived.
And when it was time to leave,
gracefully it knew life was a gift.”
by Dodinsky

I often sit at the edge of this field patiently waiting for the light and palette of sunrise to show. It’s a peaceful time. It’s quiet and it’s beautiful. For me, that colourful rising of the sun is a magical experience.

My summer in Canada includes vibrant colours, simple shapes and strong leading lines as featured in this image of iconic Muskoka chairs and outdoor furniture.

“When day is done there falls a solemn hush:
The birds are silent in their humble nest.
Then comes the Master Artist with his brush,
And paints with brilliant touch the golden west.”
by W.E. Hutchinson

As we waited for spring, the bold stripes and shapes of wishing wells and lighthouses were a cheery sight against the stark background of leafless trees.