(+6 insets)

Oregon is Brimming with Lovely Sights
The number of beautiful places in Oregon is simply staggering, with an endless variety of landscapes and environments to appreciate. We've had the privilege of seeing many of its treasures, but honestly, we've really only scratched the surface. In fact, we haven't seen the eastern part of the state at all, which ranges from towering forested mountains to arid, sprawling deserts. And though we've spent plenty of time up and down the coastline, there are so many places we haven't seen. And, even when parks may be close together, the habitats are often entirely different, so I'm always prepared for wonderful surprises wherever we go.

Today's Picture
There were lots of beautiful mushrooms to find on my walks and this perfect group was in just the right spot for an easy picture. I often have to spend time "clearing the stage" by removing sticks, leaves, bits of grass and other distractions, but once in a while I don't have to do anything! Seated in a bed of moss, I was dazzled at the wonderful texture and shape of this group's mocha-colored caps.

Today's Insets
Inset #1: Related to Bleeding Hearts and Dutchman's Breeches, this flower's name will make you laugh--Squirrel Corn! The name comes from its underground food storage structures which look like corn kernels. Like many wildflowers, they contain chemicals that, if consumed in sufficient quantities, can be toxic.

Inset #2: Beautiful new growth on conifers was everywhere to be seen and I loved to stare at the bright green sprigs that contrasted dramatically against the deep green of last year's growth.

Inset #3: A pair of trees, entwined for life, look like a loving green couple to me and I smiled up at them every day as I passed by. Aren't they wonderful?

Inset #4: The number of plant species that grew along the Spencer Creek trail was ridiculous and reminded me of a rain forest in the number and variety. For many days, I walked by clusters of what looked like dried-up brown flowers before I stopped and took a closer look. They weren't dried up at all, nor were they brown! They were so small I didn't notice them for what they were--tiny Bristle Flowers in stunning tones of striped magenta, pink and maroon.

Inset #5: A vertical panorama of Spencer's Creek show the majesty of what I saw every day. Dappled stripes, shadows and sparkles on the shallow steam, and the stunning greenery that stretched for the sky.

Inset #6: A pile of bull kelp on the sand at Beverly's Beach grabbed my attention in this image; in the distance a man threw a ball for his dog on this moody and magical day.

Thank You For Coming By!
I appreciate all of your visits, comments, and stars so much. With February rolling out before us, the promise of spring gets stronger with every passing day. Twinkling frosty mornings greet me and I hope that your weekend and upcoming week are full of pretty days too!

Explored on 2/5/22; highest placement #2.