July 1 - Lee A Tregurtha - An iconic view of a long-term visitor to Duluth, the Lee A Tregurtha has been around since 1942. The sleek design has lasted through the ages and will last many more."Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life." - Proverbs 16:31.While young folks have a lot of life left in them, it's good to remember that you will soon be old. Make the most of life and remember that if Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior, the best is yet to come.
July 2 - Looking Up! July 2 - Looking Up! - Daisies seem to embrace the sun. -- I held my iPhone under the flowers for this photo to get a different perspective.Daisies are part of the sunflower family and are often used as symbols of innocence, purity, and mourning. People sometimes use daisies for medicinal purposes. The leaves of the daisy plant contain a natural anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce pain and swelling. Psalm 103:15-16 - "As for man, his days are like grass; he flourishes like a flower of the field; for the wind passes over it, and it is gone, and its place knows it no more."It's interesting how daisies always point to the sun. Likewise, everything we do as Christians points to the "Son."
July 3 - Great Blue Heron - July 3 - Great Blue Heron - Standing perfectly still on the shoreline, this Great Blue Heron patiently awaits his next meal.Great blue herons are excellent fishermen. While wading through the water around shorelines and shallow marshes, these birds spot their next meal, stretch out their long necks, and freeze in place. Then, when the moment is right, they strike with their knife-like bill.“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you, 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 12:7-9Only God could create such fascinating and beautiful creatures for His glory and your pleasure.
July 5 - Distant Horizon - In mid-summer, the azimuth of the sunrise is once again moving south, and soon we will notice the shorter daylight hours. Looking up the North Shore of Lake Superior on a summer morning is a refreshing sight and a reminder that time is moving on.Light passing through the dense, moist surface air leaves the stronger magenta wavelengths to shine through.For thou wilt light my candle: the Lord, my God, will enlighten my darkness. Psalm 18:28
July 4th - American Bald Eagle - A symbol of power and strength, the bald eagle's large size, sharp vision, and powerful wingspan make it a fitting choice as America's national symbol.The bald eagle was chosen as a symbol for the United States because it is a majestic North American bird that freely soars the skies. It is an excellent symbol for the US as a new country.But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31Thank God for our freedom in this country and the ability to freely worship and pray to our sovereign Lord.
July 6—Amity Creek—Mid-summer rainfall rushes down Amity Creek on the far eastern side of Duluth.The stone bridge is one of the beautiful bridges built along Seven Bridges Road in 1900. It is part of Occidental Boulevard, which extends to Skyline Parkway.Seven Bridges Road is one of the hidden gems found in Duluth.He sends forth springs in the valleys;They flow between the mountains; Psalm 104:10
July 7 - Fireweed - One of the last wildflowers of the season, fireweed blossoms along many roadsides in the Northland.The name 'fireweed' comes from this plant's fantastic ability to grow quickly back into areas burned by fire. In this captivating photo, fireweed gracefully adorns the lichen-covered rocks, creating a stunning contrast against the backdrop of Lake Superior's serene shoreline.Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Luke 12:27God loved you far more than the flowers; he went to the cross for those he loves
July 8—Emerald Waters—The Apostle Islands sit just offshore from the Bayfield Peninsula on Lake Superior. Sandstone erosion has carved out sea caves that can be visited by boat during the summer and cross-country skis during colder winters. The caves are one of the region's wonders and give new meaning to "Heaven on Earth." He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. Psalms 23:2What a wonderful thought: the God of the universe cared for us so much that he led and inclined us into his loving care. Often, despite ourselves.
July 9 - Sails Up! - An evening watching sailboats skimming across the clear blue waters of Lake Superior is always a relaxing and enjoyable pastime.The Bible uses wind to describe the way God works. We may not be able to see him, but there's no denying it when we're in the wake of what he's doing. Just as you cannot understand the path of the wind . . . so you cannot understand the activity of God, who does all things.—Ecclesiastes 11:5God's providence envelops us each day; what a profound reassurance to know that He is always by our side.
July 10—Storm Front Over Duluth—Duluth's average high temperature in July of 75F provides plenty of fuel for thunderstorms. It is always enjoyable to try your luck at capturing lightning with your camera.The temperature of a lightning bolt can reach a staggering 50,000 °F – significantly hotter than the sun's surface, which is only about 10,000. This immense heat causes the air around the bolt to expand rapidly, breaking the sound barrier and creating the awe-inspiring clap of thunder.Behold, he scatters his lightning about him and covers the roots of the sea. Job 36:30The power of lightning is infinitesimally small compared to the power of our God.
July 11 - Duluth Rose Garden - This beautiful park graces the shores of Lake Superior in Duluth. A spectacular extension of Leif Erikson Park, Duluth's Rose Garden displays thousands of rose bushes and other floral delights. A walk through the Rose Garden in the dew of a cool July morning brings instant calm and a renewed spirit. A sweet scent drifts through the garden as the evening dew evaporates, bringing the sweet aromas throughout the park.Yet, in this fleeting beauty lies a profound reminder of our own transience, a gentle nudge to cherish each moment.As for man, his days are like grass; he flourishes like a flower of the field. Psalm 103:15
July 12 - Lake Lightning Lightning storms frequent the Northland in the warm July atmosphere and create stunning lighting displays.This storm took several hours to pass by and woke most residents with the light show and thunder. The voice of thy thunder was in the heaven: the lightnings lightened the world: the earth trembled and shook. Psalms 77:18
July 13 - Comet Neowise - Streaking through the night sky, comet Neowise casts a reflection into a quiet lake in a 2 am fly-by earth.Comets are cosmic balls of ice, gases, rock, and dust that orbit the Sun. Occasionally, they are visible from Earth. Neowise will return in 6800 years!Every object in the night sky reveals the glory of God in absolute truth and clarity.By faith, we understand that the universe was created by the word of God so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. Hebrews 11:3
July 14 - Duluth Rose Garden - This beautiful park graces the shores of Lake Superior in Duluth. A spectacular extension of Leif Erikson Park, Duluth's Rose Garden offers a stunning arrangement of more than 3,000 rose bushes and other floral delights. There is a fountain, a marble gazebo, an herb garden, and plenty of benches overlooking the lake."The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever." - Isaiah 40:8While these blossoms will fade away by autumn, their fragrance and beauty is long remembered, but, while they were here, they glorified God and provided us with much enjoyment.
July 15 - Cry of the Loon - Summer melody of every northern lake.Researchers have identified four distinct calls used by loons: the tremolo, the wail, the yodel, and the hoot. These calls, more than just sounds, are a language of the wild, used for various situations and echoing across the open water, a testament to the loon's place in the natural world. "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 loon is an extraordinary creation, and so are you!
July 16 - Tall Ship on Superior - The Tall Ship Niagara was sailing under full sail on Lake Superior. Just off-shore of Duluth's Canal Park, Niagara attracted much attention.Steeped in History-The Port of Duluth-Superior was once a bustling hub, frequented by majestic sailing ships like the Tall Ship Niagara, serving as a poignant reminder of our rich nautical heritage.Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise from the end of the earth, ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein; the isles, and the inhabitants thereof. Isaiah 42:10Our heritage is integral to who we are; remembering our history makes us reflect on the past and forge ahead for the future.
July 17 - Pure Power - Lightning is one of the powerful forces on earth, an incredible display of God's glory.This storm rolled across the Northland on a warm July night. The resident fireflies also added to the light show.It is He who made the earth by His power,Who established the world by His wisdom;And by His understanding, He has stretched out the heavens.When He utters His voice, there is a tumult of waters in the heavens,And He causes the clouds to ascend from the end of the earth;He makes lightning for the rain,And brings out the wind from His storehouses. Jeremiah 10:12-13
July 18— Tall Ships - Midsummer often ushers in a majestic flotilla of tall ships into port. These grand sailing vessels, a sight to behold, gather at the Head of the Lakes and embark on a summer of exploration, touring other ports around the Great Lakes."He calmed the storm to a whisper and stilled the waves. What a blessing was that stillness as he brought them safely into harbor!" - Psalm 107:29-30Summers are short in the Northland, so take advantage of every day.
July 19th - Gooseberry Roots - With a backdrop of Gooseberry Falls, this cedar tree shows the incredible ability of God's creations to grow and thrive in harsh environments. He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water,Which yields its fruit in its seasonAnd its leaf does not wither;And in whatever he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:3
July 20—The Fishing Fleet Departs—Charter fishing boats from Duluth fan out across Lake Superior on a warm mid-July morning. The big lake is abundant with lake trout, salmon, and whitefish, which provide adventure and a meal for many. "The kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish." Matthew 13:47
July 21—Sea Caves— Emerald Isles The sea caves offshore from the Bayfield Peninsula in Wisconsin have incredible sights and sounds. Accessible by kayak, the richly colored sandstone cliffs display the ages of erosion by the waves of Lake Superior. The deep, low eches of water in the inner chambers create a symphony of sound like no other on Earth.God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.Therefore will not we fear, though the Earth be removed, and though the mountains are carried into the midst of the sea;Though the waters roar and are troubled, the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. Psal 46:1
July 25 - Pot of Gold - After a passing thunderstorm, a rainbow highlights a loading grain ship in Superior, Wisconsin.Rainbows remind us that even after life's storms, a beautiful and hopeful tomorrow is always waiting for us. "But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one. And we are confident in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we commanded you." 2 Thessalonians 3:3-4Make this the start of a beautiful day by thanking God for His promise of hope in a simple rainbow.
July 23 - Dawn's Early Light—Summer sunrises over Lake Superior occur in the early hours of 5 AM. A walk in the cool morning air of the lakeshore to take in a "Superior Sunrise" makes the loss of sleep a small price for the beauty to behold.The combination of light, colors, clouds, and water calms the soul and puts things into perspective, as creation always points to God as our creator, the artist behind the scenes.Arise, shine; for your light has come, And the glory of the LORD has risen upon you. Isaiah 60:1
July 24 - Peaceful Morning Fishing - A lone fisherman casts into the waters of a lake in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.On this serene July 24 morning, a solitary fisherman gently casts his line into the tranquil waters of a lake in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. The cool mist of morning rises, embracing the fisherman and the surroundings with a serene calm. The beauty of God's creation, in its quiet majesty, soothes our souls and reflects His Glory."Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with you all." - 2 Thessalonians 3:16mist of morning rises peacefully from the lake to envelope the fisherman and surrounds him with calm serenity.God's creation settles our soul and reflects His Glory.May the Lord of Peace always give you peace in every way. The Lord be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 May we always find peace and tranquility in the beauty of nature and the grace of God.
July 26—Tall Ship Sorlandet—On July 26, The Tall Ship Sorlandet spotted a full sail on Lake Superior. It is the world's oldest and most authentic fully-rigged ship still in active service. It last visited Duluth in 2013 as part of a Tall Ships Festival.With a warm breeze filling its sails, the Sorlandet embarked on a new adventure, setting sail on Lake Superior towards its next port of call. The anticipation of where this historic vessel will dock next is palpable.The wind blows to the south and goes around to the north;around and around goes the wind , and on its circuits, the wind returns. Ecclesiastes 1:6
July 29 - Summer Splendor - Palisade Head near Silver Bay, MN, on the North Shore of Lake Superior, is a hidden gem for photographing the shoreline of the big lake.The lichen-covered sheer cliffs drop 300 feet into the crystal-clear water. As you gaze into the distance, you can spot the adventurous Shovel Point at Tettegouche State Park, a thrilling spot that draws rock climbers from far and wide.The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalm 18:2
July 28 - Pastel Morning - On July 28, I enjoyed a serene morning at the Duluth South Pier Lighthouse, where I witnessed a beautiful late July sunrise over the horizon. It was fascinating to observe how the shape of the sun appeared distorted near the horizon due to the refraction of light near the water surface of Lake Superior.The sound of the gulls, the waves gently lapping the beach, and the cool, fresh air from the lake created beautiful memories."And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light." - Genesis 1:3
July 22 - Rainbows over St. Louis River - Passing showers during July often produce amazing rainbows across the Northland. This double rainbow marched through the skies following a late afternoon thunderstorm. A double rainbow occurs when the light is reflected twice in a separate shower from two directions. Notice that the second rainbow is slightly higher and fainter in color than the first rainbow and has its colors reversed.The rainbow has always been a sign of hope. So the next time you see a rainbow, remember that God placed it there for you to remember Him.When the rainbow is in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” Genesis 9:16
July 31- Curl Lightning - The power of Lightning over Lake Superior as viewed from the Duluth Hillside. One lightning strike can generate electricity to power 10 million homes for one month.A single flash of lightning can heat the surrounding air to temperatures that are five times hotter than the surface of the sun, creating thunder as it rapidly expands.Under the whole heaven, He lets it loose,And His lightning to the ends of the earth... Job 37:3Our God is mighty indeed.
