January 1 - January Full Moon behind Split Rock LighthouseFor the past 25 years, I have been trekking up the North Shore of Lake Superior to photograph the January full moon as it rises from behind the rock cliffs to silhouette the lighthouse. There are only a few winter nights during the year when this can happen. The moon never fails to come up at the same place and same time, year after year.As you stand there and watch this phenomenon occur, you cannot help but appreciate the universe as it rotates from days to months to seasons and years. The clockwork of the universe keeps ticking.Our heavenly Father not only created the heavens but, He also sustains them for His joy and our pleasure.Everything He does reveals His glory and majesty. His righteousness never fails. Psa 111:3It is comforting to know that God, who created the heavens, is also the same God who has promised to keep us regardless of our situation.
January 2 - Great Grey OwlDuring mid-winter, an effective hunter of the North Woods, Grey owls venture south from Canada to forage for mice and other small creatures. This big guy did not seem bothered by my being there, and he was as curious about me as I was in it.The beautiful Great Gray Owl is a powerful bird; it can break through hard-packed snow to grab a small mammal moving beneath the surface. In the winter, they eat up to 7 small mammals every day.Great grays hunt by perching on posts or branches and listening. Great grays have asymmetrical ears, unevenly situated on the sides of their skull, one slightly higher than the other, such that the wide facial disk acts like a radar dish, directing sounds to its ears. The owl's small prey can be moving 100 yards away and two feet of snow and be part of this incredible creature's lunch.But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? Job 12:7-9The Great Grey Owl is a perfect example of God's design in nature. This bird has so many built-in capabilities for survival that this incredible bird glorifies God by its mere existence. If we take time to focus, it is not hard to see the hand of God in all His creation.
January 3 - Deep Winter ShippingThe Cason J Callaway arrived in Duluth, passing through sea smoke boiling off Lake Superior's open water. Within a few weeks, this area will be thick ice until Spring.Shipping on Lake Superior continues into mid-January with severe cold and thick ice. However, in these icy conditions of -20F, you can also see incredible beauty everywhere you look. The coldest temperature recorded in Duluth was -41, which occurred on January 2, 1885. Emersed in the cold of January, Springtime seems far off; however, the daylight hours are already stretching longer, and soon, it will be noticeably lighter at supper time."From the breath of God ice is made,And the expanse of the waters is frozen." Job 37:10Sometimes hope is surrounding us, and we miss it because of our situation, but Spring is right around the corner, just like January. And indeed, as Spring follows Winter, as Christians, the hope we find in Christ is always there; we only have to look up.
January 4th - Split Rock Lighthouse - The Guiding Light of the North ShoreSplit Rock Lighthouse has stood sentinel over the rocky shoreline of the north shore of Lake Superior for more than 100 years.The beautiful lighthouse remains a significant tourist attraction and is the most photographed lighthouse on the Great Lakes.Ships navigating Lake Superior had few references, and after multiple boats ran aground on the rocky cliffs during violent storms, Split Rock Light was commissioned. I can only imagine the relief sailors would feel once they recognized the flashing light pattern of Split Rock and other lighthouses around the lake, especially during foul weather.Much like the hope that the storm-tossed sailors had in knowing they would soon see the sure light of Split Rock, so, we have that same hope in knowing God is with us, never changing and steadfast on the rock of Jesus Christ.You, LORD, are my lamp; the LORD turns my darkness into light. 2 Samuel 22:29 If you are not going through turbulent waters today, tomorrow is no guarantee. So today, put your hope and trust in the truth of the gospel and let Jesus guide your path.
January 5th - Icy Reflections - Wisconsin Point LighthouseThe Wisconsin Point Lighthouse reflects the clear ice surrounding the entry into the Duluth-Superior Harbor.Constructed in 1913, the Wisconsin Point Lighthouses has stood watch over the Wisconsin Entry for more than 100 years. This Lighthouse replaced the previous Minnesota Point Lighthouse, the first Lighthouse built on Lake Superior in 1856.This beautiful Lighthouse is exposed to high winds, powerful waves, lightning, and extreme cold throughout the years and is a tribute to the construction crews and engineers who built and designed this light.The Wisconsin Point Lighthouse has withstood the powerful elements on a solid foundation meant to last.The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalm 18:2Just like the Wisconsin Point Lighthouse, we need a solid foundation to withstand the storms of life. We have this foundation for life "In Christ Alone."
January 6th - Ice Tug FormationThe last week of the shipping season makes it challenging for the tug boats to keep the shipping lanes open in the Duluth Harbor. On this cold steamy January day, the tugs make their way back into the port after escorting a laker onto Lake Superior for its last trip across the freezing lake for the season. I have always admired the hardiness of these mariners and appreciate their ability to work in extreme conditions.Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6God crafted these days for His pleasure and for us to enjoy one day at a time. January's crisp cold air is a refreshing taste of winter and a reminder to be thankful for the beauty in the extremes.
January 7th - Winter SunriseLocated near Split Rock Lighthouse, the sunrise over Ellison Island brings light to the landscape and soul. While most people put down their cameras for the winter, it is one of the most beautiful seasons to photograph. The white landscape, silent forest, and colorful sunsets and sunrises break into your routines and slow you down to focus.Because the winter sun is so low on the horizon, sunlight must pass through more air, so the light is more scattered, and more colors appear. And he shall be as the light of the morning when the sun rises, even a morning without clouds 2Sa 23:4Each day is a gift. Take time today to appreciate the world and the people around you.
January 8 - South Pier MoonriseJanuary's Full Moon is over the South Pier Lighthouse in Duluth. The moonlight, reflecting off the clouds and water, makes for a surreal image. The South Pier Lighthouse has guided ships into the harbor since 1901 and replaced an older lighthouse.This powerful beacon shines 24 miles out onto Lake Superior, guiding ships into safe harbor.For you are my lamp, O Lord, and my God lightens my darkness. 2 Samuel 22:29
January 9 - Frosty ForestAfter three days of freezing fog, the forests across the Northland became covered with rime ice.Rime ice forms when supercooled water liquid droplets freeze onto surfaces. The incredible beauty caught everyone's attention.God seems to gently "breathe" on the earth as it becomes covered with frost. Then, when daylight breaks and the curtain of freezing clouds lift off the landscape, the wonder of God's creation reveals His Glory for our pleasure. He gives snow like wool;He scatters the frost like ashes. Psalm 147:16Thank you, Lord, for showing us your beauty, peace, and quiet in a world of confusion and chaos.
January 10 - Ice ShardsLayers of sheet ice piled up on the Park Point shoreline.Sheets of ice are broken up and stacked into piles by wind and currents along Lake Superior's shore. You can watch and listen to the crystal-like shards moving and bumping against each other throughout the day.As the water cools, its molecular structure slows, and when the water temperature reaches 32° Fahrenheit (0° Celcius), the molecules bond together and form solid ice. *By the breath of God, ice is given, and the broad waters are frozen fast. Job 37:10
January 11 - Winter NightscapeDeep winter in the Northland reveals many breathtaking scenes, and the colder it gets, the more beauty pops out.On a freezing evening in mid-January, the colors saturate blue, and the windblown snow-sculpted drifts become visible.It is hard to believe that daylight will be noticeably longer in just a few weeks, and the thought of Springtime begins to tease our minds."For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater." Isaiah 55:10Thank you, Lord, for your creation to point to You and for the gift to enjoy and live in winter..
January 12 - Ghost ShipLake Superior lets off steam as an ice-covered Laker makes its way into the Duluth Shipping Canal on a freezing January morning.Fingers freeze and camera batteries die quickly in this weather, so quick snapshots are the rule of the day.There are a few days of Duluth's year where conditions are right for thick sea smoke, but those challenging days make for some beautiful images.All three forms of water are visible here, steam, liquid, and ice.By the breath of God ice is given, and the broad waters are frozen fast. Job 37:10Thank you, oh God, for cold January days where we can view your beautiful creation and breath in the pure arctic air.
January 13 - Bowstring BridgeThe Bowstring Bridge, also called a Horton Bridge, spans the Amnicon River and graces Amnicon State Park's landscapes near Superior, Wisconsin.The sound of running water, chirping chickadees, and a gentle wind blowing through the treetops gives you a sense of peace that only being in nature can provide.Let the field exult and all that is in it.Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy. Psalm 96:12Thank you, Lord, for your exquisite creations that so often point directly to You!
January 14th - Cold WaveI always stop by Split Rock State Park when I head up the North Shore of Lake Superior, and this day was no different. A sunny afternoon with light winds made for a pleasant afternoon. The waves were stirred up from a passing cold front the day before, and the beauty of the lake, with fresh snow and emerald and blue waves rolling onto the beach, created an incredible winter scene.In this unexpected situation, all you can say is WOW while your heart pounds as you maneuver across the ice-covered rocks for a better vantage point.It is easy to see God's Glory in scenes like this. That is why he brought it together on a beautiful January afternoon. You rule the swelling of the sea;When its waves rise, You still them. Psalm 89:9Thank you, Lord, for such a display of Your Power and Glory in this beautiful place.
January 15th - Ice Crystal - Beauty in the Little ThingsJanuary is filled with ice and snow, with incredible scenery everywhere. You don't have to leave your yard to photograph these exciting pieces of nature.This image was captured by mounting my camera to a frozen microscope. When you first focus on the snow crystal, you are in awe as you see the flake close up.From whose womb did the ice come forth, and who has given birth to the frost of heaven? Job 38:29 God created this hidden beauty to reveal Himself to us in His creation; consider how even the little things of creation are made for His Glory.
January 16 - Winter WhitetailsWhite-tailed deer are one of the most beautiful of God's creatures and thrive abundantly in the northland. This pair was munching on some fresh alder brush on a mid-January afternoon.God, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer's; he makes me tread on my high places. Habakkuk 3:19ProvisionIf God cares for the deer in deep winter, how much more will he watch over and provide for us with abilities, shelter, food, and family. We have so much to be thankful for, even in the deep of winter.
January 17 - Frozen Assets On a frigid January day, the 1000 ft Paul R Tregurtha entered the Duluth Shipping Canal.As the Great Lakes shipping season ends mid-January, the prominent Lakers struggle through extreme weather conditions as they finish the season.During the eight weeks between shipping seasons, the large ships are repaired and refurbished while the crews rest.Come to me, all who labor and are heavily laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28We all need rest at some point, both physically and spiritually. So, take a few minutes today to reflect on where you are and where you are going! God knows your situation and offers rest beyond measure.
January 18 - The Big Dipper in the AurorasThe Aurora Borealis flicked to life in the night skies above a snow-covered landscape. The calm winds and silent forest added to The Northern Light's mystique on this sub-zero January evening.The mix of landscape, skies, and stars combine to declare the glory of God in this January scenery in the northern forest."Yours is the day, Yours also the night; You have established the heavenly lights and the sun. You have fixed all the boundaries of the earth; You have made summer and winter." (Psalm 74:16-17) It is humbling to know that God is at work, painting the sky for an audience of one. We only have to "look up" and see him through His creation as He looks down to give peace to our souls.
January 19 - Moon WatchThe January full-moonrise at Split Rock Lighthouse is an annual event that many photographers from around the region follow.The moon slowly creeps up the backside of the cliff and suddenly appears behind the lighthouse. Here you can see the lineup of photographers hoping the capture that perfect shot.The moon follows its perfect path with the other stars and planets, including the earth, showing that everything in creation points to God to reflect His glory. Thankfully we get to enjoy the scene. "When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have ordained..." Psalm 8:3Thank you, Lord, that your timing is perfect and unchanging; guide us on our journey today.
January 20 - Magenta LighthouseLooking through the pines at Split Rock State Park, the lighthouse is highlighted by the warm light of a January sunset.Although the temperatures are cold, we have gained a half-hour of daylight already, and the average temperatures are rising.The cycles of the seasons are continually moving along, and so are the seasons of life. The quiet rest of winter will slowly morph into the new life of springtime. There is always something to look forward to in God's creation.For everything, there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: Ecclesiastes 3:1Thank You, Lord, for the quiet rest of winter and the hope of a new season just around the corner.
January 21 - Winter Sunset - Two Harbors Lighthouse The Two Harbors breakwater lighthouse was built in 1892, and together with the enormous lighthouse further back onshore, it has guided the mighty US Steel ships into the harbor for over 100 years. The lighthouse is 49 feet high, and the beacon shines 78 feet above Lake Superior's waters.The dimming light of a cold January evening warms your soul and gives you a glimpse of glory.It is amazing how the color of light can make a frigid scene seem warm. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light. Psalm 36:9Today is a great day to be alive.
January 22 - Split Rock SilhouetteThe rising moon's light backlights the Split Rock Lighthouse and highlights the scattered clouds, producing a stunning winter scene.One night out of the year, the moon rises in the perfect location and creeps up the cliff's backside, suddenly appearing behind the lighthouse, filling its role in the universal clockwork of God's creation.The LORD is my rock, fortress, and savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. Psa 18:2Thank you, Lord, for creating the conditions to highlight the North Shore on a cold winter night and glorify you in the world and heavens.
January 23 - Blue Jay - King of the Northern Forests The Blue Jay is a beautiful resident of the northern forests. Its dignified crest, blue, white, and black feathers, and unique calls make it a unique bird. Blue Jays are intelligent birds with tight family bonds. These creative songbirds love to sing throughout the forest, symbolizing clarity, vibrancy, and intellect. Once Blue Jay's mate, they stay together for life. Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Matthew 6:26God's creation declares His existence from every corner of the earth, and knowing He is in control is comforting.
January 24 - Winter LightOn a mild January afternoon, Split Rock Lighthouse sits prominently on the high cliffs overlooking Lake Superior. We have already gained an extra 30 minutes of daylight and two additional minutes daily. More than half of winter is behind us, and soon garden seeds will start showing up on store shelves. The wonders of creation parade by us with the seasons; remember to stop and enjoy our blessings daily.Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105Oh Lord, thank you for guiding us through life and your promise to bring us home safely.
January 25 - Fire and IceWarm sunlight and ice-covered rocks blend, repeating a January scene across the Lake Superior shore.The winter season is filled with spectacular scenes, often never observed by anyone. Yet God creates them daily for His pleasure. Once in a while, we also get to enjoy them. So teach us to number our days so that we may present a heart of wisdom to You. Psalm 90:12Small changes in time go unnoticed in our busy lives, but time moves on by minute, days, months, and years, sometimes without notice. So, take a minute today to reflect on our blessings and thank God for each minute.
January 26 - Snow BridgeA blanket of freshly fallen snow covers the landscape around the Lester River Bridge in Duluth. The joy of winter is the quiet peacefulness surrounding you on a walk up a frozen river. The occasional chirp of a chickadee or squawk of a raven breaks the silence, only to return to peaceful quiet.You keep him in perfect peace, whose mind stays on you because he trusts you. Isaiah 26:3The only peace and safety in this world is hope and faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
January 27 - Wolf MoonJanuary's full moon is named after the howling of wolves in midwinter. Other names for this month's full moon include the old and ice moon.“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Luke 2:14Thank you, Lord, for your care for us by providing resources to live here and enjoy the cold of winter and the warmth of summer.
January 28 - Cold GlowOn this -35 below-zero morning, the warm colors of a winter sunrise cast a glow over sea smoke rising from Lake Superior.Sea smoke forms when frigid Canadian air moves over the relatively warm water surface. Warm air is less dense than cold air, so the sea smoke rises similarly to smoke.This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24Today is a great day to be alive!
January 29 - Moonshine at Gooseberry FallsThe frozen waterfalls at Gooseberry Falls State Park look much different when bathed in the moonlight of a full January moon.The evening's quiet is broken only by an occasional owl hoot and the muted bubbling of the Gooseberry River, which is still moving under the ice and snow.He reveals deep and hidden things;he knows what lies in darkness,and light dwells with him.Daniel 2:22What you see when you walk outside under the light of a full moon is incredible.
January 30 - Pure WhiteSnow clings to the trees and grass after a light January snowfall. The blue skies, fresh snow, and pure artic air make for a perfect winter day.Any wisp of wind would have blown this cotton-like snow off the branches, but it hung on long enough for me to capture this winter scene.Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea creatures and all deeps, fire and hail, snow and mist, stormy wind fulfilling his word! Psalm 148:7-8It's a great day to be alive.
January 31 - Moon LightThe solar system's rotation continues its perfect timing yearly, month after month. So this Full moon happens once a year like clockwork.He stretches out the north over the void and hangs the earth on nothing. Job 26:7 Thank you, Lord, for your creation to point to You and for the gift to enjoy and live in winter.
