It’s early February in Central Texas. The middle of winter right? The high temperature yesterday was in the low 70s! I’m not complaining – just reporting.

I took this photo of a Post Oak (Quercus stellata) near our house late in the afternoon. I love the way the setting sun lit up the bare branches. Post oaks are probably the second most common oak on our property. The first being live oaks.

Post oaks are easily identified because they grow straight and tall. Live oaks are shorter and more twisted. The post oaks are also deciduous and have large leaves.

Post Oak in sunset

Here’s a black and white version of the same photo.

Post Oak in sunset

I like the darker mood of the black and white version. It certainly looks more wintry, but we know better!

Which one do you like?