Message of the Tower

Have you noticed that some churches build very tall steeples that reach out into the sky pointing to the heavens?  Then there are others whose towers look like a fortress maybe to be protected by the  evil forces of the world.

Or just maybe the message is to say that here is a safe place where people can come for spiritual nourishment in a nurturing   environment so they can be a force of love, charity and peace to the whole world.

July Snowballs

 It almost sounds like an oxymoron to talk about Snowballs in July.  This one and dozens of others were found on Golf Road adding attractive scenery on a beautiful July day.  

To be honest with you I would not have noticed these snowballs had I not been trying to be successful  in taking at least one photo a day.  This task has opened my eyes to things I would have missed before.  

Night Lights

I submit this photo not as one of beauty but a moment of learning.  The assignment was to take photo and demonstrate what can happen with a slow shutter speed.  These are tail lights on cars driven on Golf Road.

I can imagine an interesting night photo taken from a bridge overlooking the Interstate Highway where there is a curve coming in the distance.  That kind of photo would certainly grab my attention.

Almost Unnoticed

My Million Belles are almost unnoticed when they are put next to the Arbor Vitae trees.  Yet each one in their own way is special.

Columbia Gorge

Enjoying M. Hood

We spent 5 days on a trip to Oregon where our leader was a forensic geologist.  He told us that sometime in the next 30 years it will erupt and the explosion will make Mt. St. Helen's look like child's play.   Let's enjoy it while we can.

An Abundance of Roses

A rose is a rose even when there are 10,000 other plants in the same garden at the International Rose Testing Garden in Portland, OR

Buddy and Viburnum

Buddy said, "Ok now it is my turn to do the posing.. I am going to sit right here  Now get me and the tree together."

Honey Harvest

Viburnum blossoms attract the bees on their search for honey.  Bees were not concerned about good composition so I had to shoot quickly.  They did not tarry or pose.  Blossoms provide a very attractive view in our back yard.

Dinner Time

Driving through Carson Park we found these Canadian goslings enjoying their evening meal.  Right behind them were Mom and Dad supervising and making sure I would not get to close their their family.

Blu-tiful

"Hello!  I am from the Million Bells Family.  If you think I  am colorful you should see my 999,999 siblings.  Our Creator has done a spectacular job."

Ordinary Beauty

There is nothing more ordinary than petunias among the family of spring flowers.  Yet when we look closely they are marvelous works of art.    The Creator must be pleased.

Mini Bell

Here is one bell from the "Million Bells" flowers.  Our plants do not get the million bells, but we enjoy each one that  shows up.

The yellow spots must be the pollen that makes this time of the year uncomfortable.

High Places

 I appreciate cities that keep these older buildings in good condition and the people who have to maintain their beauty and elegance.   I am glad I am not the one who has to paint these structures and risk their lives to do it.

City Hall - Merrill

Stately and proud this tower catches you eye just driving through town.  

The Race Begins

Looks like I had a great seat to see the Kentucky Derby.  Only kidding.   This photo was taken from the TV as I was home testing out a new lens.

Signs of Spring

Trillium on the floor of the forest means spring has arrived.  Oh how we welcome such a sight because we know there is lots of color to follow.  

Reaching for the Sky

Steeples and towers always grab my attention.  They are designed to be seen and call attention to something important.  This one comes from Door County Wisconsin

Nature Lover

St. Francis an advocate to love, enjoy and protect all of God's creation.  This statue was given as a gift  from another nature lover. 

Permission Granted?

This Canadian Goose looked at me as if to say, "Did I give you permission to take this picture?"

Mini Waterfalls

As the snow melts these streams take one life as the water always seeks a lower elevation.  The movement of  the water provides music to the ears and beauty to the eyes.  This one is Lowes Creek just south of Eau Claire.

Finally Returned

I have been waiting for these red wing blackbirds to return. They are a sure sign that spring has arrived.  The male specie are the the ones that make the noise,  usually protecting the nest where the female is hatching the eggs.

Posing Proudly

"Yes, we will pose for you.  Be sure you get this posted somewhere where others will enjoy seeing it."

Photo taken in Carson Park

Second Home

When Paul needs a break from all the tourists in Minnesota, he comes to Carson Park for fun.

Finally March

Winter Survival

Trying to stay warm when the windchill is -35 these ducks stay close to each other. Togetherness is necessary for survival.  Natural instincts make it possible to endure the challenges

Textile Art

This is one of the display of textile art on the theme of music.  The original was very attractive and great textures that captured our attention. 

I have been away from providing updates for a long time.  Don't know yet if I will get back to trying to add more photos.   Maybe I will add a few from time to time to see if my interest is still there.

I have not done any serious shooting for several months and my first goal will be to get some photos that are worth your time, or at least photos where some learning has taken place.

Maybe I should start all over again with a new blog that has a different purpose.  My hope is that this will motivate me to get out and do more shooting.

Art on Needlepoint

How does she do it?  Running needle and thread through those little tiny holes and end up looking like a piece of art.  The original piece is the size of a book mark.   I marvel at the skill and the the patience. This is a Christmas gift from some dear friends.  Thanks!