Project Athena - Day 293 (Bridges)

Building Bridges

Did you know that "Woodward, Inc. is the world's oldest and largest independent designer, manufacturer, and service provider of control systems and control system components (e.g. fuel pumps, engine controls, actuators, air valves, fuel nozzles, and electronics) for aircraft engines, industrial engines and turbines, power generation and mobile industrial equipment." (Wikipedia).

What I know about this company is that they have gorgeous grounds that rival some of the most beautiful arboretums in the world; back in the 60's, 70's and early 80's they required their male employees to wear military style haircuts and neckties to work; they are currently building a new mega-facility in north Fort Collins on what used to be my favorite golf course (glad to see they have not torn down the old barn and silo); they are self-insured, meaning their employees get great medical coverage with a MD on site; and they pay their bills on time.

What I didn't know is that I could actually park in the visitor area to take this picture. Thanks Lara, former Woodward, Inc employee, for the tip.

Woodward Governor, Fort Collins, CO

Project Athena - Day 195 (Food)

Today I was thinking about what it actually takes to feed a planet's inhabitants. Wrapping my head around the massiveness of the whole food industry is impossible. I simply cannot fathom the energy that goes into modern growing and processing techniques that bring to market edible, nutritious, affordable, packaged sustenance on a daily basis.

This week has deepened my appreciation for the abundance in my life. I have never once experienced a single day of hunger and that awareness brings me humbly to my knees. It also reminds me that I have the capacity and desire to share this abundance with others. I am going to find a way to give back and hopefully help someone else from going hungry.

Reflecting on Olives and Peppers

Nikon D3200 • Nikon 18-55mm lens • 32mm • F/4.8 • 1/80s • ISO 200

Project Athena - Day 68 (Trees)

The Giving Trees

“Once there was a giving tree who loved a little boy.
And everyday the boy would come to play
Swinging from the branches, sleeping in the shade
Laughing all the summer’s hours away.
And so they love,
Oh, the tree was happy.
Oh, the tree was glad.”
— The Giving Tree, Shel Silverstein

Chapungu Sculpture Park in Loveland is little sanctuary in the city is one of my favorite places to walk, sit, meditate, and take pictures.

I was very surprised to find the leaves on the trees already beginning to turn color. Fall is just around the corner. Smiling.

Chapungu Sculpture Garden, Loveland, CO

Nikon D3200 • Nikon 18-55mm lens • 24mm • F/4.5 • 1/20s • ISO 200

Project Athena - Day 61 (Landscape)

Rocky Mountain High

“The forests are the flags of nature. They appeal to all and awaken inspiring universal feelings. Enter the forest and the boundaries of nations are forgotten. It may be that some time an immortal pine will be the flag of a united peaceful world.”
— Enos Mills (Father of RMNP)

This shot was taken on Sunday morning after my descent from the top of Trail Ridge road. I just had to share.

Sprague Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park

Nikon D3200 • Nikon 18-55mm lens • 32mm • F/25 • 1/50s • ISO 400