Astoria, Oregon grungy stuff

What I particularly like about photographing in Astoria is how there's such a great combination of old rusty stuff (railroad paraphernalia and fishing boats), colorful newer things (it's a town that's reinvigorating itself), and there's so much interesting architecture. As we walked along the railroad tracks, I found a pile of old oil drums, an "A" on a rusty train car, and then, out on a dock, I came upon piles of rusted chains, where some of the links had a fantastic patina. Astoria offers a weird photographer such as me such a variety -- letters, numbers, rust, weathered wood, peeling paint, bright colors, doors, windows, and walls. It was a wonderful overnight getaway. And Holly and Barney, if you're reading this, thank you both! ©Carol Leigh

Morning Frost

Beautiful, conifer-esque patterns often form on the windshield of Chris's truck. I shot them from the inside of the truck looking out. I didn't have much time, however, since even just a little bit of body heat melted them away. Cold day today, but at least it isn't raining. ©Carol Leigh