As far back as I can remember, I have loved car, truck and RV road trips because I was so entertained by looking out the windows. I am still an observer of life beyond the vehicle windows.  I love the size, shape and color of everything, as far as my naked eyes can reach. I keep at least one set of binoculars in my truck, and usually one in my purse, bag or backpack. I like to look at things up close, at different angles, and in different lighting.  Long before I owned my first camera, I recorded “good shots” in my mind; often boring anyone who would listen to the details about the objects of my observations.  Now I have a camera, the internet and you! No details, so you shouldn’t be bored:>)

I fell in love with gates and fences while I worked as a real estate agent years ago. I raised my children in the country and always loved the western theme of many country gates and fences. Some had a hunting theme, some were rustic, some were just plain neglected “antiques.” Not surprisingly, on the Western Washington coast, gates and fences tend to lean toward a nautical theme. They are elaborate to whimsical, with everything in between. The salty ocean air and more than our fair share of rain and clouds  around here cause fences and gates to rust and grow moss, lichen and mold quickly.

Gates allow access to a home at the owner’s discretion. Gates are the first focal point to a property when entering, and the last thing seen when exiting. Some gates provide high security, with cameras and codes, some have a simple lock, while others don’t ever close. My neighbor wants to install one to keep the deer from snacking on our plants and flowers. Others want privacy, with a capital “Stay Out!”

Fences tell their own story. Fences are erected to keep someone or something, either in or out.  I’ve seen utilitarian livestock fences that stretch up steep hills, across miles of fields and forests, and some that even tip-toe through small creeks.  Some say that  fences make good neighbors and some demand, “Don’t fence me in!” Looking from the outside, in, I have run across some beautiful, ugly, fun and charming fences in my photography travels.

See “Gates and Fences” photo page at www.phallphotos.wordpress.com