Springtime Sunset

Fabulous cloud front illuminated by the setting sun earlier this week. And very typical of what we see in the spring: rain, sun, repeat (xn). We were waiting for a table at a restaurant along the Columbia River, between Vancouver and Portland when this cloud and setting sun were forming. The scene sent me hurrying to my car to get my camera!

Linking to Weekend Reflections and Skywatch Friday.

Paved Paradise

I'm not sure what the plans are for this former parking lot along the bank of the
Columbia River in Vancouver, but it will likely be a welcome improvement.

I think this construction zone was probably looking its best this afternoon 

with these great puddles reflecting the winter sky and trees.

Linking to Weekend Reflection.

Sidewalk Squares

I was surprised to find this purple sidewalk glass earlier today when I was walking in downtown Vancouver.  I first encountered it during the Underground Tour in Seattle's Pioneer Square District.  In Seattle, the original street level was raised one floor, I believe to correct drainage issues.  Anyway, the original ground floor found itself underground.  And when the sidewalks were added, they included these purple prism lights, which funneled light down to the basement level understreet.  This was all done in the late 1800s.  I suppose these sidewalk skylights were installed at about the same time here in Vancouver.  I wonder what is under this sidewalk!  I think these squares are made with amethyst, but I"m not sure on that.  They're awfully pretty in my opinion, and really I think they've held up pretty well.