The Importance of Exploring

      Today I went exploring.  Miles driven down dirt roads.  Dodging potholes big enough to swallow a small car while taking in the beauty of the forest.

     Most of my trips I have specific areas in mind that I want to photograph.  Those areas have grown stale.  That creates a stagnation in my images. 

     I took a few photos as records of what the area has to offer.  I took a short hike and found a small mountain stream.  Water level was low, but there is evidence that it does have a decent flow, probably in the spring.

      Whether or not you are a photographer taking a day to explore something new is a good thing.  It serves to re-energize your mind and body.  You come away refreshed.

     I now have several new places to hike and discover over the next year.