December 29, 2011

A Different Perspective







It's interesting to see places you're very familiar with in a different way...especially through the eyes of friends and family visiting during the holidays.  Places you sometimes take for granted suddenly have shiny, new appeal.  You're reminded that you live near a sweet jewel, an oasis, in the middle of Texas.

Perched high above Lake Travis, multiple decks allow for expansive views of the lake.  People flock to The Oasis to watch the sun slip quietly behind the hills while sipping frosty margaritas and eating spicy nachos. 

Usually a visitor here in summer, it never occurred to me how much the view would change during the winter months.  In the summertime the sun sets directly in front of the decks but during the winter it sets off to the left directly over Mansfield Dam leaving Sometimes Island and Marshall Ford Marina in beautiful shadow. 

The lake is currently 45% full.  Sometimes Island is typically referred to as Sometimes Island(s) which pop up as the water level recedes.  It's rare to see the islands as an island let alone as a peninsula but right now you can walk from Mansfield Dam park onto the island.  A very unusual perspective seen in the second photo.  

Marshall Ford Marina is usually tucked back into the cove and isn't visible from the main basin of the lake.  The owners have been able to shift some of the docks as the water level has receded.  It is one of the only marinas with access to the water.  Many boat owners have been unable to get to their boats for months. 

Interesting how something you think you know so well can surprise you...Winter solstice perspective: welcome.  Drought perspective: trying to find the beauty in you...but honestly, ready for normal any time now!







21 comments:

  1. I've never been to the Oasis. I do like the topography on the water tower. Top-notch.

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  2. Fabulous!! I have a Canon Rebel T1i and I'm still learning how to use it. I would love to upgrade my lens. Any suggestions?

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  3. I never visited the Oasis in my time in Austin. It looks like I missed a real jewel. I love the water tower photo! Best wishes for the New Year, Cat!

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  4. Great photos! How have I missed that water tower? Boy, do we need some more rain.

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  5. oh, a big AMEN to that!!! our pond has been showing signs of slight rejuvenation and i'm SO grateful! i know the marina owners have suffered greatly this year, and i'm still worried about our own municipal water supply here (coming from a nearby lake).

    these shots are really beautiful. i love the rust in the top one, too!

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  6. Beautiful photos!

    Brings back so many memories too.


    ...Happy New Year!

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  7. @Rambling Wren, congrats on your new camera! You'll have a blast learning how to use it! These shots were taken with a prime 50mm. I tend to lean toward prime lenses but it's just a personal preference. I did a lot of research to determine what lens would best fit my needs then with my budget in mind, went to a reputable camera store (Precision Camera here in Austin) and asked their advice. I'm not a pro and this is just my personal opinion but I feel a quality lens can really take an average camera body a long way...get the best you can afford for your particular camera. Good luck! I'm curious to hear what you decide, let me know ;)

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  8. @TG, how long has it been since you've visited the Oasis? It has changed like you wouldn't believe over the last year and a half...they've incorporated and are their own city: Oasis, Texas. More retail, places to eat and office space. As a long time Austin resident, not quite sure how I feel about it...as a photographer, I love it! There is tons to capture ;) Happy New Year!

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  9. Whoa! I didn't know they'd incorporated, and become their own city.
    I do admit, I liked the OLD Oasis more. It was more that 'Austin Funky'. But, the view is still good. And, it's less a fire hazard now.

    Haven't been out there this year. So, haven't seen the next additions of retail, etc.

    Great shots of the beauty and the sadness of the lake right now.

    Happy New Year!

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  10. What a wonderful spot to get some beautiful pictures. I hope you get more rain in the coming year to fill the lake back up.
    I have enjoyed your postings and photographs this year.
    Wishing you a Happy and Blessed New Year Cat.

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  11. Their own town? Amazing It is my MIL's favorite place to eat. I will let her take us there next time!

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  12. I enjoyed hearing your perspective. Lake Palestine is very low, too (of course) and it's interesting to see the different 'islands' that now have connecting land. I have been to Lake Travis, which is beautiful, but have not been to Oasis. Looks like I've been missing something. I'll have to make sure I stop by there next time I'm traveling through.

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  13. Beautiful photos!
    Have a great New Year.

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  14. Hi Cat... love that second pic... Happy 2012 to you and your loved ones...

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  15. So true! Sometimes we can't see things/life as they truely are until we see them from a different perspective. Thanks for your kind words. I really needed them today. :o) If you're ever out this way visitng your family, please stop by. I'm serious! Meeting you through blogging has been a true gift. I hope 2012 is a wet one!

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  16. I hope nature gives you the rain in 2012. Goodness knows your are needs it. I hope you have a great New Year and all your wishes come true.

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  17. I think this summer has caused all of us to look at things from a different perspective and appreciate the little blessings, knowing how fragile the world can be at times.
    Happy New Year, Cat! Looking forward to enjoying your gorgeous photos and thoughtful words in the new year!

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  18. Yes, that's so true. It's good to see from different perspectives once in a while. It's like visiting a new place. Great sunset photos!

    Our rain has stopped after a few months of daily rain. Hopefully they have gone your way.

    Happy New Year!

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  19. Happy New Year Cat! How true this post is. Life seems to take on a new meaning when you just change how you look at it. Goes for one's attitude too. Your photos are beautiful and thank you for your blog. I so enjoy visiting you and always come away with something good. Many blessings to you and your family in 2012 :)

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  20. Cat - your photos are so serene; they tell a story just in themselves.

    Happy New Year! Here's hoping for a more 'weather-friendly' year; no more broken records...

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  21. Austin must be a wonderful place. In addition to the great winter weather (and beautiful views like yours), the music scene sounds incredible! One of these days, I hope to make a trip to Austin. Happy New Year, Cat!

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