River and Sky

I have been a runner for many years and, while I do still run, I am bicycling a lot more. This is one of my favorite destinations. It is a park along the banks of the Illinois River in Morris, IL. I have taken lots of shots here and I am always fascinated at how much a single location can change it’s character due to the weather and the change of season. This was a particularly beautiful day.

The Illinois River at Starved Rock State Park

Illinois River at Starved Rock Considering how flat the terrain is in this part of the country, Starved Rock State Park provides great hiking, camping and – believe it or not – views!

the sea

: I know I am biased, but new York does have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Not that I have been to many, but enough to know that my bias is true. This was taken at Jones Beach, New York. I grew up 15 minutes from this beach on the southern shore of Long Island. I have long since tried to stop understanding it, but I know that I am never more at rest, and at peace, when I am at the shore. The ocean has a way of making you feel small, and that’s a good thing. I have many wonderful memories of family and fun at this beach, and each time I go home to NY to visit my folks I go to Jones Beach, be it Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall. I also dedicate this image to a dear friend who has taken some of the most beautiful shore pictures that I have ever seen.