In the Texas county where we live (Williamson), most of the deer sightings have been on the west side of Wilco, as in west of Interstate 35. Lately, however, I’ve been seeing more wandering into farm country on the east side. Drivers, watch where you’re going. The deer population is expanding. 
Winter light can be intriguing. Combined with trees in transition near the San Gabriel River, it’s especially fun to see. A favorite in this group might be the one with two types of light, the top section encased in warmth, the bottom portion, in shade, looking rather blue. These were taken this week from a high vantage point, but not with a drone. A drone might be nice to have, but I can see it being overused if not careful. 
A recent post suggested that New Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church is the most photographed church in Texas. I don’t know about that, but I’ve photographed it quite a lot since returning to Texas in 2009. The congregation was formed by Swedish immigrants in 1876. Their first church was built in 1879, on the site of the church cemetery, about a mile west of the current church. Construction began there in 1921, with completion in 1923. Its 104-foot tall copper spire stands out for miles around. This post includes the church, a window reflecting evening light, plus photos of the cemetery, beautiful in its own right. That’s a Waxing Crescent moon tonight, 7.9% visibility. 
It’s always nice to include both a sunset and moonrise in a post. That’s what you see tonight. A vibrant setting sun east of Granger was followed by the appearance of a Waxing Crescent moon, just 2.6% visibility, shining through goalposts at Taylor Middle School. The airplane flying through the scene was an interesting addition. 
Even when not posting them, it’s a pretty good bet that I’m taking photos of windmills, our rural Texas skyscrapers. Beginning with one taken this evening, presented here are four taken since the start of winter. The one surrounded by blue light was taken before dawn on Christmas morning. Expect more of these at some point. 
Just some photos taken around Georgetown today to mark the new year. The weather was warm, with temperatures into the 70s. A cold front will change things later tonight. Lows in the 20s are expected by morning, not getting past the mid-40s. For us Central Texans, that’s quite chilly! I asked the fly fisherman if his waders would suffice on a frigid day. “No.” I get it. Have a great year.
This was my first photo taken in 2022, a few minutes before dawn on a cloudy start to the year. These strutting hens crossed the road in style. Thankfully, it’s a road less traveled. 
As the year nears its final hours, I offer what may be familiar scene. This area around Beyersville, in southeast Williamson County, remains pristine. I travel through here when a respite from unchecked growth is needed. For now, this field surrounding Mager Cemetery is as serene as it gets. I can sit in the cemetery for several minutes without seeing a car pass by. This post opens with a wider view, for perspective. Inevitable growth is coming, but let’s cherish what’s here for now. The Blackland Prairie is still with us. As I was leaving here last evening, the wreath on the barn I photographed last week was glowing, a fine end to the evening.
Sometimes I like to drive a bit more, into North Williamson County, Texas. A highlight for me is seeing the twin spires of Holy Trinity Catholic Church of Corn Hill. The first church was built here in 1889, then called Immaculate Conception. A larger church was built in 1891, becoming Holy Trinity Catholic Church, homage to a church by that name in Ostravice, Moravia, former home of many Corn Hill residents. The current church was dedicated in 1913. Those spires are visible from quite a distance. 
While autumn color is very nice, I have to admit an affection for trees when their leaves fall away, leaving behind their exquisite skeletal personas. These are photos taken last evening at Taylor’s Murphy Park, watching day become night. 
