It was one of those serene mornings in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula—the kind where the fog hangs low, the air smells like pine needles and possibility, and you start to believe nature might just be your best friend. I was at Oswald Bear Ranch, camera in hand, hoping to capture something special for my puzzle line. I didn’t expect to stumble into a scene that looked like it was straight out of a Disney movie… or a bear survival guide.

A couple of years ago, I found myself standing before the majestic Mt. Washington Hotel, camera in hand, as nature staged one of its most breathtaking performances. Fog hung delicately below the peak of Mount Washington, creating a soft veil that added mystery to the mountain’s rugged silhouette. The trees were just beginning to shift into their autumn attire—splashes of gold, amber, and crimson hinting at the season’s arrival.

There’s something magical about waking up early, packing your gear, and heading into the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. On a quiet summer morning, I drove my red Jeep Wrangler up winding roads through the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, chasing a moment I hoped to capture — one that would later become a centerpiece of my MI Puzzles collection.

Immerse yourself in the peaceful majesty of Michigan with a puzzle that’s as breathtaking as the landscape it portrays. This exquisite 1000-piece puzzle captures a radiant sunset over Lake Superior at the mouth of the Hurricane River, nestled within the iconic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Known for its dramatic cliffs and pristine waters, this scene reveals the lake’s gentler side—calm, golden, and utterly captivating.

In the heart of Yellowstone National Park, winter transforms the landscape into a quiet, snow-covered sanctuary. It’s here, in this serene setting, that a powerful image was captured—an elk standing tall and still, surrounded by the soft hush of snow. This moment, frozen in time, is now the centerpiece of a 500-piece puzzle titled “The Elk.”

Back in the spring of 2020, just before the world changed in so many ways, my wife Cindy and I took our youngest son, Luke, on a trip to celebrate his upcoming high school graduation. We wanted to do something special—something that would leave a lasting impression. So we packed our bags and headed south to one of the most unique ecosystems in the world: the Everglades.

Jackson Square, nestled in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a vibrant testament to the city's rich history and cultural tapestry. This iconic landmark, originally known as Place d'Armes, has been a central gathering place since its inception in 1721. Renamed in honor of Andrew Jackson, the hero of the Battle of New Orleans, the square is home to a striking equestrian statue of Jackson, sculpted by Clark Mills and erected in 1856.

A few years ago, my wife and I embarked on an unforgettable journey around California, and one of the highlights was witnessing the awe-inspiring Firefall phenomenon at Horsetail Fall in Yosemite National Park. This blog post will share some fascinating facts about the Firefall and recount our incredible experience exploring Yosemite and its majestic sequoia trees.

Our adventure began just outside of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, at the cozy Twin Creek RV Resort. The vibrant fall colors of October 2021 set the perfect backdrop for our stay. We started our week with a few trips to Pigeon Forge, exploring its charming attractions. One of our favorite stops was Old Mill Street, where we discovered delightful shops like Stardust Candles, known for their prank candles. It was fun exploring the historic part of the city.

Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes of North America, is a stunning natural wonder that captivates visitors with its vast expanse and serene beauty. Spanning approximately 1,640 miles of shoreline, Lake Michigan offers a diverse range of landscapes, from bustling urban areas to tranquil beaches and towering sand dunes.

As a photographer, there's nothing quite like capturing the essence of iconic landmarks. On our way back from California in the spring of 2023, my wife and I made a memorable stop in St. Louis, Missouri. Our journey along Route 66 was filled with incredible sights, from classic cars and stunning rock formations to historic buildings that inspired the movie "Cars."

In the fall of 2023, my wife and I embarked on a memorable journey to Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio, a detour on our way to Florida. We spent a week exploring the park's various attractions, but one spot that truly captivated us was Old Man's Cave.

There’s something magical about lighthouses, standing tall against the elements and guiding sailors safely to shore. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, a stunning structure that perfectly embodies the charm of these coastal sentinels. With its white exterior and vibrant red window shutters and doors, this lighthouse is a sight to behold, especially against a backdrop of a cloudy blue sky.

As a photographer, there’s nothing quite like the magic of a sunset on the beach. Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing one such moment in Florida, where the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. This stunning scene, featuring swaying palm trees silhouetted against a breathtaking sunset, has now become a cherished 500-piece puzzle.

Join me on an adventure to one of Florida’s most iconic landmarks, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. As a photographer, capturing the essence of such a historic and picturesque site is both a challenge and a joy. This lighthouse, with its rich history and stunning views, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity.

Embark on a journey to the heart of Colorado with me as I recount my unforgettable experience at the Crystal Mill. This historic wooden powerhouse, perched on a rocky outcrop above the Crystal River, offers a glimpse into the rustic charm and rich history of the area.

Join me on a whimsical journey to Dream Lake, a gem nestled in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park. While I haven’t had the pleasure of visiting this enchanting place myself, the incredible photographer Phil Stagg has, and he’s shared his stunning photos and stories with us. So, grab your hiking boots (or just a comfy chair) and let’s explore Dream Lake through Phil’s eyes!

Embark on a journey to the heart of the Rocky Mountains with me as I recount my unforgettable experience at Rocky Mountain National Park. This iconic national park offers breathtaking landscapes, towering peaks, and serene alpine lakes, showcasing nature’s grandeur and beauty.