53.11 Arizona: Tonto National Forest: A tough day with visuals hard to match: (3 Roosevelt SB.)

 While many shots are of Roosevelt Lake, the surrounding mountains and specific scenes, including the saguaros, other plant life and occasional man-made structures blending in with nature, we believe the coloring, the textures and the hour-to-hour changes that occur because of sunlight and clouds, make this a unique region for the camera. More importantly, it's a unique area for our senses, particularly those of sight and serenity. I often begin the day in this region thinking how different can the scenery be from previous days? 'Perhaps I'll take a mere few shots as the photographs will be similar.' Yet, each time I'm overwhelmed by the variations and the constant and consistent beauty. Maybe it's just me...not the beauty, the perception... (continues below). 

Perhaps, a justification of the opening paragraph.

Always fascinated by the abundance of water in an abundant desert. The cacti add to the paradox.
Returning from the peak above.
It may be harsh but it sure is attractive especially should one not have to sleep there.

 

Some years ago, who knows when, we reached a stage where city life was one of existing in a concrete jungle in the literal sense and country life became living more peacefully and meaningfully but on an exciting adventure. Admittedly, there's a certain paradox about the latter concept but nevertheless, to us, it makes much sense. I remember as a teenager and thereafter, the skyscrapers, traffic, night clubs, the masses of people, always sports (and girls), all combined to create an atmosphere of excitement.

 I never needed or even thought of stimulants or even a beer (such a 'square') to enjoy the action, the hustle and bustle—it was what life was all about. Perhaps Jen and I have aged suddenly, grown prematurely senile, or maybe, just maybe, we embarked upon the most exciting, fulfilling, stimulating, hopefully a major growth cycle, part of our lives. The only point that's wrong in the previous statement was using the word 'maybe'. 

  I make one qualification: Because this lifestyle suits us as no other, does not make it better than anyone else's. As we have maintained for the past 12 years, when a person finds one's passion, whatever it may be, one has discovered one's purpose. We wish that each person achieves or has reached his/her passion for that leads to a meaningful and fulfilled life. 

Another side of the mountain, Mom.

The first descent came only when we commenced our return from the endpoint. The trail went directly upwards the whole way. We like that.
Cheers, 

Jenni and Jeffrey