I’ve always been something of an armchair pilot. For years I logged countless hours on flight simulators and even built scenery and buildings for them. I also became a regular at hot air balloon events when my kids were young. Every Saturday morning we’d head to the balloon rallies in Boise, Idaho, watch the launches, then go out for breakfast together. During the week I’d often ride my bike past the launch field on my way to work just to catch a glimpse of the balloons lifting off.

This elegant pair of Greater Sandhill Cranes

I’m doing something a bit different this week. Here are some photos I took back in 2011 with my very first digital camera.

I've visited Yellowstone National Park countless times—more than I can even count! I still head up there often with my family for those unforgettable adventures. This is one of my all-time favorite photos of the iconic Old Faithful geyser, capturing its timeless power and beauty.

I love capturing the stars in all their glory

The Yellowstone River and the canyon are absolutely beautiful. Believe it or not that river starts near Yellowstone. The continental divide goes through Yellowstone so the Yellowstone River eventually runs into the Missouri River, the Mississippi River, and into the Gulf.