Desert

"Walking on the sand dunes in Death Valley
     is a unique experience. I usually start early in the morning;
              long before sunup. Any footprints from the day before
                    are  brushed away by the gentle wind.
                         I like to go barefoot and feel the powdery fine
                              sand between my toes  
                                   – the feeling of being at one with nature.


                                   (It is necessary to bring shoes since the
                                    sand gets burning hot
                                    after the sun comes up.)


The rounded curves and the soft texture seem to radiate
     tranquility; so it is for me anyway, yet the enormity of the
          dunes also speak of power and strength which are all
               there for me to share.


As the dawn breaks the colors change rapidly
     from glowing red at the first rays of sunshine
          and gradually diminishing to a light tan.
               The spell is gone and it’s time to move on."


                         By Ole Westby, nature photographer