Near the eastern shore of Issyk-Kul lake, there are some ponds that offer a miniature preview of what it's like to experience the entirety of the main lake itself. Dry air, wet winds, short grasses, modest bushes, thin trees, liquid harmony, villages with their pastures and gardens, and foothills ascending to snow-capped mountains beneath an azure sky. Even abroad, an inner sense of fantastical wonder remains. The story behind this shot, unlike Issyk-Kul lake, is not very deep. It was merely a traveler's delight to see a natural roadside beauty as I passed by back towards my dwelling from the 'main' vacation spot. Photos like this help me believe that the side-paths are just as valuable and memorable as the destination itself.