Explore the Four Elements

Due to our travels, it’s not always easy for me to take part in photo challenges but when Teri over at Images By T. Dashfield invited me to join in this photo contest and challenge, my interest was piqued.

It didn’t take me long to have an idea of which photos to pick.  Let’s explore my vision for the four elements; Earth, Air, Fire, Water…..

EARTH – I’m very fortunate to travel as I do and I see some amazing scenery.  I’m still awed by the fantastic vistas and mesmerized by the plants that thrive in incredibly harsh environments.

Superstition Wilderness
Superstition Mountains, Arizona
Dead Horse
Dead Horse State Park, Utah

AIR – The endangered Whooping Crane migrates from the far northern edge of Alberta, Canada to the southern waters of the Texas Gulf Coast.  With fewer than 500 left in the world, it’s a treat to see these magnificent birds.  It’s exciting to see families and know that their population is increasing.

Whooping crane
Whooping Cranes; a family of three. The juvenile is distinguished by it’s rust coloring

These birds are able to fly long distances by taking advantage of air thermals.

whooping cranes
Whooping Crane

but then there’s the clouds…. beautiful clouds produced by the winds.

Mission San Xavier
Mission San Xavier, Tucson, Arizona

FIRE – I don’t know about you, but I never get tired of watching sunrises or sunsets.  That fire-ball we call the sun provides me with a lovely show every day.

Lake Pleasant
Sunset over Lake Pleasant, Phoenix Arizona
Texas Gulf Coast
Sunrise over the Texas Gulf Coast
Galveston Texas
Galveston Island State Park, Texas

WATER – water is a necessity for all life forms, and this is even more evident when it comes to the Sandhill Crane.  For the Sandhill Crane, the water is more than sustenance, it’s a source of protection from predators as they bed down each night in shallow waters.

Whitewater Draw
Sandhill Cranes, Whitewater Draw Conservation Area, Arizona

For the Roseate Spoonbill, crustaceans are a major source of food.  These pink beauties can be seen sweeping their bill back and forth in the water as they feed.

Roseate Spoonbill
Roseate Spoonbill, Texas Gulf Coast

Now it’s time for me to invite 5 bloggers to participate.  The choice to take part is totally up to you.

Travel Tales of Life
@vanilla
Another Day in Paradise
Which Way 101
Retirement and Beyond

For more information on the photo competition you can click here.