STARTING THE MORNING OFF WITH A COLORFUL SCENE OF FLOWERS OUTDOORS I glanced skyward to check

I glanced skyward to check the clouds which happen to be altostratus clouds

I started up the steep trail at 5:15 am to catch the sunrise at the lake and the Continental Divide

A female snapping turtle rests for a moment while searching for suitable ground to lay her eggs that will perpetuate her species at Wildflower Park in Northern Illinois

I decided to move back a ways and set up my camera along the river where there was a small path that he was using

STARTING THE MORNING OFF WITH A COLORFUL SCENE OF FLOWERS OUTDOORS I glanced skyward to checkA beautiful and colorful morning with smooth hedge nettle starts this August day at Wildflower Park in Northern Illinois. (431 15)