On a grey winter day, it is the little things in life that make a difference in the dreary Northwest.  As I was heads down focusing on my virtual screen to the world, I looked up and there was an aircraft carrier cruising by my window.  I immediately raced for my camera to record its passage and brighten up my day.

Trying to focus the camera, I was busy trying to capture the carrier with the Bremerton Ferry in the background. Fortunately I also caught a container ship in the far left background anchored near the docks.  It wasn’t until I loaded the photo to my computer that I realized that those weren’t planes on the deck, but rather cars.

Thanks to the wonders of the internet I looked up US Navy Aircraft Carrier number 76 and found out it was the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76).  The Wikipedia entry is so good that it let me know that the USS Ronald Reagan was transferred to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard.

As I filed the photo away in my very disorganized library, I happened upon a similar photo taken last summer of the Washington State Ferry passing my window.

What a difference the summer sunshine makes on a photo, and on my mood.  I can’t wait for the warm sun to come back to the Puget Sound.

As the silly season of presidential politics heats up, the passing of the USS Ronald Reagan reminds me of the gift we get every day for the sacrifices that our military folks make so that I have the freedom to do what I choose to do.

Having a great day in the Pacific Northwest looking out my window.  Being. Here. Now.