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People in Seattle can be overheard saying "the mountain is out today". One would assume that this refers to the occaisional sunny day where Mt Rainier shines in all its postcard perfect magnificence. However, it is also often the case that a day like Christmas Eve 2011 comes along where there are high clouds. It is on these days where the mountain isn't just meant for the eyes of tourists, but the eyes of natives who have come to appreciate the many beauties to be had in the varying shades which blanket the dove gray sunlight of the Pacific Northwest.

This view just happens to be from the parking lot near Tyee High School in SeaTac.

After a few minutes, the light turns from blue to orange, and the shortest day of the year ends.

The sunset begins on Bowman Bay. A perfect way to end a perfect December 22

We hiked around the island to the spot where Deception Pass Bridge is visible, the spot where my childhood love of nature was kindled. It was a beautiful way to spend my birthday. Then we descended off the island onto the spit that connects back to the mainland. Dusk was just beginning, and the world had turned the most amazing shades of blue and gray. I told everyone that I'd have to stop for one last picture.