While hiking during my first evening in Sedona, I couldn't resist photographing this natural staircase I found at the base of Courthouse Butte. The sun had just set while I was taking this photo, and my gosh, I was surprised how fast it got dark. I ended up walking back in pitch black and getting lost a few times along the way since I only had the light on my cell phone. I learned my lesson hat night on the importance of being prepared.
I love the desert. The desert doesn't love me. The only thing I see in this scene is a tremendously painful obstacle course. Despite the bleeding legs, I still find this landscape incredibly beautiful.
Fireweed blooming in the Canadian Rockies signifies summer has reached its peak. For a few short weeks a rich purple tint will be cast over the open slopes and old burn areas. Soon the days will get shorter, the evenings cooler, and before we know it, summer will be over. Until then, I know Ill be out enjoying as much of this as possible. I suggest you do the same.