So this is a pic I took from my "Fortress of Solitude" while deployed to Iraq during OIF 7/ OND. This picture was taken from the roof of the Falcon Palace in the Radwaniyah Palace Complex looking toward Radwaniyah Palace at the sunset. The roof had been a bar/party area for his son while Sadam was in power. This was my base for the deployment. I would try to get as many sunsets and sunrises up there as possible. It was a great way to think about the wife and kids hopefully looking at the same sky. Being able to be quiet with such natural beauty in the midst of war always helped me remain somewhat centered. Unfortunately I never had the same chance at peace and quiet in AFG although there was plenty of beauty
Wheeler peak(highest point in NM). This is the view from a cattle ranch we used to hunt turkey, grouse and cow elk. Never had to pay a dime to hunt( the ranchers did sell their bull tags). This last year they leased the hunting rights to a neighboring ranch. They charge $2000 for turkey hunts and $12000 for elk hunts. I have a lot of good memories hunting that area with my dad and grandpa. Unfortunately we won't be hunting there anymore.
One of my favorite pictures I've ever taken. I believe this tree got a few seconds of fame on an episode of Fresh Tracks. Wound up empty-handed but the trip was worth the work.
Upper Kijik River, Chigmit Mts. I saw a wolverine, Dall's sheep, nearly all white gyrfalcon, and brown bear from this spot in a span of one hour. Many miles from any form of pavement. Only a fading jet contrail to remind us the world isn't as big as it once was.
I took this photo out of the passenger window as we were driving up the Dalton highway in Alaska's north slope on our way up to do a DIY archery caribou hunt. This was just coming off the north side of Atigun Pass. We flew from Nebraska to Fairbanks, rented a truck and drove all the way up to Deadhorse, although we were hunting south of Deadhorse a ways. Amazing views up there. And as a bonus our group of 4 guys ended up killing a couple nice bulls. Can't wait to go back.
Certainly not one of my favorite pictures, but it does highlight that feeling of relief when you spot unsuspected water with an empty bladder and miles to go on your hike!
A storm rolls through the wenatchee national forest. It is a great habitat for elk and mule deer and for the last few years home to some devestating fires. Fire season has come early in my neck of the woods. Hopefully it isnt a sign of things to come.