While the uncertainty with COVID still persists as 2021 begins, there are events planned for me and my family this year. A year ago I had no idea what the year would bring but this year I have a number of things already added to the calendar. Continuing to get out and look for those interesting shots will be a year long endeavor as it has been for many years now. There already has been some nice opportunities as several frosty mornings painted the landscape white. Once again I will be heading to the Superbowl to participate in the atmosphere and whatever events surround this biggest of games. It takes place in Tampa, Florida this year. I continue to be nervous about the worldwide pandemic in a situation like this and will be taking whatever precautions I can to remain safe. At the same time I’m looking forward to some warmer weather and the opportunity to take photographs amongst the palm trees.
As spring arrives I’ll continue my hunt for more of Minnesota’s native orchids. Currently I’ve began to map out a few locations and the time of summer some of these orchids bloom in to add to the calendar. It’s exciting to think about finding and snapping some shots of these beautiful, exotic plants currently hibernating beneath the snow. The goal is to add 6 new species to my list which would bring me to about half of the areas native orchids.
The end of spring will bring my second daughters’ graduation. While I don’t like the idea that she’ll be finishing high school this year, I’m excited for what she may do as she begins her next phase in life. It’s unknown what her ceremony will look like and how we’ll be able to celebrate this achievement but we’re hopeful for a closer to normal event. We’ll figure out something regardless. Those who had to find unusual ways to mark this milestone last year have paved the way for us this year figuring out new methods for us to use.
Over the course of the winter, spring, and summer I’ll be in training for a big event I’ll be sharing with my daughters in late summer. We’re going to camp in the Tetons preparing to climb Grand Teton. I’m extremely excited to take this on and also quite nervous as this is a very physical activity. Will I be able to complete it celebrating the climb with my girls? My cousin and his daughter will also be joining us on this trip. The altitude is such a factor for me. I can do the hiking, which is seven miles in one direction, and climbing. Both of these are fun for me but as soon as you add in the element of thinner air, it slows me down as I need to frequently stop and regenerate my oxygen levels. Still, to be able to enjoy mountain views for several days while camping and watch the star filled sky are exciting to prepare for along with summiting with my family members once again returning to a National Park.
This year has a lot of potential to gain a lot of life experience. How much will be dependent on the COVID levels as we continue to battle this virus which may allow us to return to more normal life. In any event, we’ll adjust as needed and work towards making more life long memories in 2021.
