I had to take a short sabatical

I'm trying my best to regroup and get refocused after taking an unexpected trip to the Midwest. Since it wasn't a pleasure trip, I didn't get many photo ops, however, we passed some wonderful scenery along the drive. Ohio and parts of Indiana were filled with golden wheat fields. There was the most awesome lightening storm I think I've ever seen at about 2 am in the Illinois/Iowa area and I really wanted to pull off to the side of the road and practice some lightening shots, but I wasn't sure if I dared ask Curt to stop at 2 am to drag out the tripod, etc. just so I could capture what could have very will been my most exciting shot yet. So, on we drove without the shots I so desired.

However, at sunrise in Iowa, it was my turn to drive and as the sun was coming up, it practically illuminated the windmills that lined the interstate, and as luck would have it, there was an exit ramp that was so convenient to the scene, so off I went. But, as luck would have it, it was NOT the ideal place to capture what I was trying to get, but after driving through so many picturesque scenes, I just had to snap something. And, here it is:

Power lines in the forefront and all! Oh well, as Willie Nelson would say - we were "on the road again".

Our short stay in Minnesota was filled with family obligations, so no chance to take any shots there, but on the drive home, I was beginning to get bored and the scenery again was pretty breathtaking with the farm fields spread out all around us and the sky and clouds made for a perfect day. So, I got the camera out and snapped a few shots while Curt was driving. This is what I ended up with:

Again, nothing "award winning" - just a product of my boredom.

Now a personal note for my family in Minnesota - it truly was a pleasure to see you all again, however, I wish it was under different circumstances. I love you all, and rest in peace, Larry.