Snowflakes

All images created by Marisa Cieloha. Use of images without permission is prohibited.

january

I find a good macro session very rejuvenating. It was the perfect way to start the year. 

praying mantis

I led this backyard visitor into a cardboard box for a short photo shoot. He wasn't very happy with me; he kept giving me the evil eye. How can a four-inch-long insect be so intimidating? I set him free and he stalked away into the grass.

punchbowl falls

Punchbowl Falls, Eagle Creek, Oregon

I've done the Eagle Creek hike before, in spring, when the water was higher. The water was so high that I couldn't get to the spot I needed to photograph this waterfall the way I wanted. Last week, I had a spontaneous invitation to hike this trail again, and I jumped at the chance, knowing the water level would be low enough for me to venture out in the creek bed.

It was almost perfect. I definitely got the composition I was hoping for, but I hope to go back one more time later this month when the leaves have changed color and the sun is a little bit lower. Stay tuned.

little triathletes

The little dude participated in his first triathlon today. It was a fundraiser for some local schools, and he had a blast. He told me the last few steps to cross the finish line were the best steps of his life. What a great way to describe the rush of adrenaline you get when you push hard to accomplish a goal. My little guy inspired me today. ♥ 

oregon coast

Fort Stevens State Park

My family recently took a trip to the Oregon Coast. I've visited this coast probably once a year for all my years, and I still manage to discover new areas and new beauty.

Shipwreck of the Peter Iredale, Fort Stevens State Park

I had such a fun time photographing the Peter Iredale at sunset. The way the light passes through the bow of the ship is truly magical. I had a tough time getting the composition I wanted, though, because of all the competition. (See below. And I just noticed another photographer in the far left of the above photo!)

We made lots of fun memories with the kids, and managed to have some adult time, too. It was a fantastic vacation! I can't wait to go back.

Douglas spiraea, Devil's Lake State Park

Bog blueberry? Devil's Lake State Park

northwest fourth

balloons make us happy

I am loving the sunny summer evenings lately. Summer is my least favorite season, but oh, how I missed those summer nights. Everything is warm and glowing with long, dark shadows. Beautiful.

In other news, I'm closing down the MakeHappy Facebook page. There isn't enough activity here (or there) to keep it going, and Facebook is making it harder and harder for “pages” to get views without paying. (How dare they keep us from using those connections for free, right?)

But I'll still be here, once in a while. And on Flickr. Have a great summer!