Last September I was able to work in a stop in Colorado Springs and visit Garden of the Gods. In addition to the spectacle of the rock garden, itself, it has the best visitor’s center I have ever visited. The volunteer workers are extremely friendly and were knowledgeable not only about Garden of the Gods, but the entire region. One of the staff I spoke with spent a significant amount of time with me, recommending hikes and telling me about the area. The park is owned and operated by the city of Colorado Springs and has no admission charge. You can either see the park via the one-way driving loop, or spend some time walking the many trails int he park.

Here is one of the unique rock formations in the park.

We interrupt this virtual trip to the Southwest for something a little closer to home, shot last night.

View larger sizes of the panorama photo here.

Riverlife Pittsburgh  requested to use one of my photos in their most recent newsletter. Riverlife Pittsburgh  is environmental, recreational, cultural and economic vitality in the city. Their endeavors include improving bridges, creating plazas and parks, and my favorite, the Point State Park fountain renovations.

This photo was shot at sunrise in August 2011. After several fruitless sunrise trips to Mt. Washington  I could hardly believe my eyes when the deep pinks and purples bean to penetrate the dark sky as night gave way to dawn. Since we rarely have sunrises this colorful in Pittsburgh, it was a pure delight.

A May 2012 desktop wallpaper is available for you to download at no charge and prints of the photo may be ordered here.

Some of the signs of spring are finally upon us.

Update: The top photo has made it into Flickr Explore for March 21, 2011. Thanks for all of the feedback and favorites.

The February full moon was what is considered to be the “Full Wolf Moon” or “Full Snow Moon.” The moonrise was first obscured by clouds, but the skies finally cleared enough to reveal the moon amidst pink clouds and light.

Duquesne Incline Timelapse from Jenn Grover on Vimeo.

Click image to view larger

I caught some lightning from Mt. Washington Saturday night as the Steelers played their first pre-season game. You can view more lightning shots at Flickr.

It looks like the Gulf states might be under the gun next week as the tropics fire up in what is threatening to be a very active hurricane season. The map at te top of the page will track the storms in the Atlantic basin. Note to self: fill your tank before the storm threat gets closer.