Winters in Montana can be a harsh thing. The locals say that all the time, but they always add, "But it keeps the tourists from staying here." And to a life-long Montanan, that's a good thing.
In the Midwest it is not uncommon for people to flee the cold and snow for a warmer climate. Many relocate for the winter on the west coast of Florida. Some spend their winters along the east coast of Florida. And still others spend their winters in Arizona. As for me I think I would miss the snow. Not so much the cold, but definitely the snow. That's why I stay in Montana and spend my winters in the Paradise Valley between Livingston, Montana and Yellowstone National Park.
Livingston is known for one thing. Wind. The wind can blow so hard and so long that it will drive mere mortals crazy at times. And the Paradise Valley can act like a chute for the wind at times, accentuating its power.
I chose the Paradise Valley because it is a part of Montana I don't often see. And I like making photos of Montana here.
This year, it had additional value because it also allowed me to tend to some health matters in Bozeman. The people here are just as friendly as they are on the Hi-Line and the winters are just as long. I have photos of winter to prove it. And although they are not as cold, they do produce more snow. A week ago Monday we had over a foot-and-a-half of snow. That makes most Montana photographers very happy.
I hope to continue to winter her in the years ahead. Not sure if that will be possible, but I do enjoy it so.
