Ford Family Photos

The Twelve Apostles - Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia

2012-01-21T10:49:00.000-08:00

The Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia...however, there have never been 12 exactly...more like 9 and one collapsed in 2005 leaving 8.

This group is looking westward...some are hidden from view, unfortunately

a slightly different perspective...

looking eastward at these two as they are bathed in a few moments of late afternoon sunshine...

another view of the two...

Blue Monday
Mellow Yellow
SkyWatch Friday

Koalas Along the Great Ocean Road - Victoria, Australia

2012-01-20T14:12:00.000-08:00

We saw this cute little koala in his very own gum tree along the Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia.

The road travels through rain forest and then opens up to awesome coastal scenes.

It's fairly easy to spot the koalas along the way.

Camera Critters

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia...Southbank Yarra River Walk

2012-01-20T07:49:00.000-08:00

He's LATE!

along the southbank river walk (Yarra River) in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Weekend Reflections

Great Ocean Road - Victoria - Australia

2012-01-18T23:18:00.000-08:00

Our trip to Australia had so many highlights...this being one of them!

The 13 hour day on the Great Ocean Road on the Southern Ocean was spectacular!

This is one shot of the London Bridge...

...this is another.

I could have spent the entire 13 hours right here, but, there was so much more!

...of course I have to get more than one perspective of each bend in the coastline!

The colors changed with the cloudy sky...brilliant moments of sunshine and then rain.

sea caves...

The rock formations seem to just float on top of the azure seas!

This is all part of Port Campbell National Park...106 km (66 miles) of sheer beauty!

This is Loch Ard Gorge.
It is named after the Lock Ard Ship which is only one of about 700 ship wrecks along this stretch of coast line.

The Rocks seem to be suspended in air...water passes beneath!

The Twelve Apostles are just up the road from here...tomorrow's post!

SkyWatch Friday

Scenic Sunday

Blue Monday

Mellow Yellow Monday

Sydney View - A View of the City from Sydney Tower

2012-01-16T18:08:00.000-08:00

The Sydney Harbor Bridge is something special, along with the Opera House.

These photos were taken from Sydney Tower where there is a 360 degree view of the sights below.

I couldn't take my eyes off this view!

Please click on images to enlarge!

I zoomed in on the bridge to pull it in a little closer...

...and, a little closer again!

We walked across the bridge a few hours later and enjoyed it so much!

The ANZAC Bridge (Australia New Zealand Army Corps) leads to the west suburbs and Blue Mountains.

Watery Wednesday
Outdoor Wednesday

Sails - Sydney Opera House, Sydney, NSW, Australia

2012-01-14T00:03:00.000-08:00

The Sydney Opera House about 10:00 p.m. on a mid November night 2011.

I took this shot from the deck of a boat while cruising back to Circular Quay.

Sydney, NSW, Australia
Please click on photos to enlarge!

-earlier in the evening during the 'blue hour' following sunset-

Blue Monday
Mellow Yellow Monday
Our World Tuesday

Sydney Harbor Bridge (Bridge Climb) - Sydney, NSW, Australia

2012-01-11T22:17:00.000-08:00

Something we did not do, but, kind of wish we had was to take part in the Bridge Climb!

For a hefty fee you can climb to the very top of the Sydney Harbor Bridge. It's quite a workout but surely worth the effort for the view of the city!

People do this day and evening...amazing!
Can you see the dots on the top...brave people!!!

Jerry and I walked the span of the bridge from the traffic/pedestrian level and that was impressive.

We viewed the Opera House and city from many vantage points.

Gotta' love Sydney!
Please click on image to enlarge!

SkyWatch Friday

ANZAC War Memorial in Reflection - Hyde Park, Sydney, NSW, Australia

2012-01-11T22:06:00.000-08:00

I found this reflection in the globe of a park lamp.

It is of the ANZAC (Australian New Zealand Army Corps) War Memorial in Hyde Park, Sydney, NSW, Australia.

Please click on image to enlarge!

Weekend Reflections

Melbourne, Victoria, Australia...Their Summer Season!

2012-01-06T11:34:00.000-08:00

Kids being kids in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia...

Notice the RED light!

A scenic reflection...

Someone is in a rush on the River Walk along the Yarra River in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

Jerry and I liked strolling along the river in the delightfully cool summer evenings while we were there.

Little cuties giving the seagulls an evening snack on the Yarra River...Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Boats cruising along the Yarra River beneath one of the many bridges through the city of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.

I had a little fun with my Lensbaby Composer on this evening!

Mellow Yellow
Blue Monday

Sulfur Crested Cockatoos in the Jamison Valley - Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia

2012-01-04T00:44:00.000-08:00

This Sulfur Crested Cockatoo sits in the foggy rainforest of the Jamison Valley in NSW, Australia.

Believe it or not...there is a thick green tropical forest hiding in the dense fog!

This cutie is quite messy on this very fine rainy/foggy summer day.

The valley is the home of many of these great birds.

They gather around the 'skyway' station without any worries!

A little hole in the fog reveals some green tree ferns and gum trees!

SkyWatch Friday
Camera Critters

Playing With Light

2012-01-02T22:07:00.000-08:00

My 16 month old grandson plays with a flashlight in our dark bedroom.

His 4 year old brother gets in on the light play, too!

We should have just given them flash lights for Christmas!

Our World Tuesday

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park - Caravonica, Queensland, Australia

2011-12-30T15:32:00.000-08:00

Light My Fire!
(edited from original posting)
The indigenous Tjapukai Aboriginals demonstrate the art of making fire.

I got this shot a few weeks ago at the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park in Caravonica, Queensland, Australia.

Looks like success!

"Smoke gets in my eyes"!

...but, where are the flames?

ahhh...FIRE!

Mellow Yellow Monday
Ruby Tuesday
Our World Tuesday

Michaelmas Cay, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia

2011-12-29T00:08:00.000-08:00

Please click on photo to enlarge!
My husband and I spent an afternoon snorkeling on this very isolated sandy cay.

Michaelmas Cay, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia

December 9, 2011

Was it wonderful? YES, YES, YES!!!

SkyWatch Friday

Michaelmas Cay, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia - Snorkeling

2011-12-24T10:47:00.000-08:00

I took several hundred photos of our snorkeling experience in the Great Barrier Reef off Michaelmas Cay.

The water was VERY warm and the color extraordinary!

Jerry and I spent 4 hours with our faces in the water and came out very wrinkled!

I don't know the name of this fish. It looks transparent but it's just reflection of the underwater color.

There were several dozen of these guys swimming in circles around me!

Glad they weren't sharks!

My husband saw a quite large white tipped reef shark cruise by...

no encounter...just cruisin'.

This is one of the many species of Parrot Fish in these waters.

This guy was so much prettier than this image reveals.

He is a lovely yellow dotted with teal spots on his body and stripes on his tail.

Awesome color...

she is invading my territory!
I rented a very nice Canon underwater camera for A$50!
I must say...I have got to get my own!

I took a WHOLE lot of photos...just couldn't stop!

December 9, 2011

Michaelmas Cay, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia

(Two hours via Catamaran from Cairns)

Mellow Yellow Monday
Blue Monday

Sydney's Icons

2011-12-21T23:03:00.000-08:00

While planning our trip to Australia, I had much anticipation of photographing Sydney's two great iconic landscapes...the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge. I wanted my photos to be special to me and not like every postcard on the racks throughout the country.

The top photo was taken on a very rainy night - November 23, 2011.

Please click on images to enlarge!

This image was taken the next afternoon.

It was still very rainy with a dark sky.

Jerry and I walked across the Harbor Bridge a few days later.

We lingered on the bridge for quite a while watching the boats and activity beneath us.

Under the Sydney Harbor Bridge on the North Shore at Milson's Point.

Please click on images to enlarge!

SkyWatch Friday
Scenic Sunday
Blue Monday

Katoomba (Blue Mountains) NSW, Australia

2011-12-20T21:56:00.000-08:00

We spent a night in the Blue Mountains (Katoomba) in NSW, Australia.

This is Echo Point...a gorgeous valley with craggy rock formations that we were NOT able to see!

My husband strolls over to join the other tourists who believe they see something...hmmm!

I have been wanting to do some 'foggy' photography but not at the expense of missing some of Australia's iconic scenery!

This is a candid image of someone I do not know...

I don't think she even saw me down below!

Our World Tuesday
Watery Wednesday
Outdoor Wednesday

The EAGLE Has Landed - Sydney International Airport, NSW, Australia

2011-12-18T21:06:00.000-08:00

We're cruising along the Australian coastline getting closer to Sydney!

Yay!!!!
Please click on photos to enlarge!!!

I see the coastline...Yay, again!!!

The final approach into Sydney International Airport commences!

A nice view of Botany Bay down below...
hmmm...it's going to rain. I just know it!

The EAGLE has landed! That is, Qantas (QF12)!!!

I see a very cool control tower!

14 1/2 hours of flying and we are ready to be land animals once again!

Our World Tuesday

Watery Wednesday

Outdoor Wednesday

Bush Fire / Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia

2011-12-16T22:21:00.000-08:00

This is the aftermath of a bush fire in the Blue Mountains of Australia...a few hours from Sydney, NSW...

The fire came to the property line of a beautiful hotel where we stayed just 3 weeks after the flames were put out.

Please click on images to enlarge!

My husband and I walked down this road to the bottom of the valley.

The fog and rain made it an eerie few hours!

Amazingly, this yellow wheel escaped the flames!

And, equally amazing, the regeneration of this tree fern is just 3 weeks old.

raindrops on a little something that escaped the flames...

The fog looks like smoke. The burn smell was still quite strong in the damp weather.

We weren't alone...someone else is braving the fog and rain, too.
The fire ends at this point...quite amazing!

Scenic Sunday

Mellow Yellow Monday

Ruby Tuesday

Manly Beach, Sydney, NSW, Australia

2011-12-13T13:14:00.000-08:00

A rainy day on the beach...Manly Beach, Sydney, NSW, Australia.

November 23, 2011

Watery Wednesday
Outdoor Wednesday

SkyWatch Friday

Tonight's Sunset Last Night

2011-12-11T21:43:00.000-08:00

My husband and I spent 3 super great weeks in Australia and returned to Los Angeles this morning earlier than we left Brisbane.

This is tonight's sunset last night...

taken over the South Pacific very near where the Equator and the International Date Line intersect.

Blue Monday
Mellow Yellow Monday
Ruby Tuesday

October Aspens - Eastern Sierra, California USA

2011-10-29T21:26:00.000-07:00

An aspen forest in the Eastern Sierra, California USA

Mellow Yellow
Our World Tuesday

A Gathering of Tribes - Cabazon, California USA (2nd post in series)

2011-10-05T20:22:00.000-07:00

This is my second post for the Powwow which was sponsored by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians on September 24, 2011.

Cabazon, California USA

Please click on photos to enlarge!

Catching their motion in low light was challenging but I am quite happy with the results.

Mellow Yellow Monday
Blue Monday
Midweek Blues
Ruby Tuesday
Our World Tuesday

A Gathering of Tribes - Cabazon, California USA

2011-09-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

This is a tribal headdress before the dancing began last night.

I attended the Morongo Thunder and Lightning Powwow where many Native American tribes gather to celebrate their culture and heritage.

...and another,

a gathering of tribes...

Blue Monday
Mellow Yellow
Our World Tuesday
Ruby Tuesday

Stand-Up Paddle Boarding - Dana Point, California USA

2011-09-13T08:02:00.000-07:00

she's trying to get her balance...

ahhh...got it!
-Please view full size-

Watery Wednesday
Outdoor Wednesday
Blue Monday
Our World Tuesday

Triangles in the Sky

2011-09-11T11:09:00.000-07:00

just a few sails from the 'Star of India' which is docked in San Diego, California USA.
-Please view full size-

Blue Monday
Midweek Blues

Our World Tuesday

San Diego Festival of Sails (September 3, 2011) San Diego, California USA

2011-09-04T19:24:00.000-07:00

We spent the day in San Diego thoroughly enjoying the Festival of Sails.

This man is preparing the gorgeous red sails for our 3 hour journey on the water.

This is a view from where my husband and I were sitting on the 'American Pride.'

The sails are going up one by one!

We had a great time with a 'cannon battle' against this ship!

Downtown San Diego is in the background.

A smaller sailboat also graces lovely red sails!

Bringing down the sails!

I think it takes very brave people to be WAY up there!

Blue Monday

Mellow Yellow

Ruby Tuesday
Our World Tuesday

Outdoor Wednesday

Watery Wednesday
SkyWatch Friday

SkyWatch Friday, Scenic Sunday, Mellow Yellow / Highway Sunset

2011-08-24T20:16:00.000-07:00

a nice evening along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in southern California...
please click on image to enlarge!

SkyWatch Friday

Scenic Sunday

Mellow Yellow

SkyWatch Friday, Weekend Reflections, Scenic Sunday, Blue Monday, Mellow Yellow / Lost in Reflections

2011-08-17T22:37:00.000-07:00

This is an observation window at the Seattle Int'l. Airport, Seattle, Washington USA

...and this is just a small part of the window - there's much more!
Click on photo to enlarge to full screen!

SkyWatch Friday

Weekend Reflections

Scenic Sunday

Blue Monday

Mellow Yellow

Scenic Sunday, Blue Monday, Mellow Yellow, Ruby Tuesday, That's My World Tuesday / Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona USA

2011-08-06T10:35:00.000-07:00

Grand Canyon (south rim), Arizona USA

fall 2010

Ever Changing Light and Color

Click on photos to enlarge!

Scenic Sunday

Blue Monday

Mellow Yellow Monday

Ruby Tuesday

That's My World Tuesday

Weekend Reflections, Scenic Sunday, Mellow Yellow, That's My World Tuesday / Who Spilled the Orange Juice?

2011-07-28T22:40:00.000-07:00

I can't help but wonder who spilled the orange juice?

We enjoyed this sight while walking in Laguna Beach, California USA on July 17, 2011.
please click on image to enlarge!

Weekend Reflections
Scenic Sunday
Mellow Yellow
That's My World Tuesday

Weekend Reflections, Scenic Sunday, Ruby Tuesday / Float Plane

2011-07-21T23:01:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!
This is the first float plane I saw on my recent trip to Alaska.

We stopped in Moose Pass for lunch and I was delighted to see this lovely red plane waiting...

I have to say that the float planes were high on my priority list to photograph while there!

I ♥ Alaska!

Weekend Reflections
Scenic Sunday
Ruby Tuesday

Mellow Yellow, That's My World Tuesday, Watery Wednesday / High Surf at The Wedge...Balboa Beach, CA USA

2011-07-15T18:14:00.000-07:00

a little cutie on the beach...

an amazing evening watching the high surf at 'the wedge' at Balboa Beach, Balboa, CA USA

surf like this brings out the surf watchers and photographers...and, that includes me!

the heavy surf pounded out a 3-5 foot sand berm along the shore.

these times are always something special to witness!

Mellow Yellow
That's My World Tuesday
Watery Wednesday
Outdoor Wednesday

Scenic Sunday, That's My World Tuesday, Watery Wednesday, Outdoor Wednesday, SkyWatch Friday / North to Alaska

2011-07-10T12:05:00.000-07:00

Please click on photos to enlarge to full screen.
Beginning the final approach into Anchorage International Airport

on June 18, 2011 about 6:15 p.m.

Somewhere over Prince William Sound, Alaska USA

Also, somewhere over Prince William Sound, Alaska USA

Scenic Sunday
That's My World Tuesday
Watery Wednesday
Outdoor Wednesday
SkyWatch Friday

SkyWatch Friday, Weekend Reflections / Midnight Sun

2011-07-06T13:59:00.000-07:00

Please click on photo to enlarge!

This float plane is tied for the night.

It is midnight and the sun just set moments before I took this shot.

Other float planes were coming back after their scenic flights throughout the day.

Alaska...the Land of the Midnight Sun

Lake Hood, Anchorage, Alaska USA

June 24, 2011

SkyWatch Friday

Weekend Reflections

Scenic Sunday, Camera Critters, Watery Wednesday / Kenai Fjords, Seward, Alaska, USA

2011-07-02T09:57:00.000-07:00

-Please enlarge for best views-

We took a 9 hour boat tour of the Kenai Fjords while in the Seward area of Alaska.

The scenery was marvelous!

...and, it was COLD!

Amazing rock formations!

It gets colder by the hour...

We're entering the glacier area at this point.

You can see seals in the water and floating on glacial ice!

I took many photos of the glaciers...this is just one close-up.

It was a cloudy day which gave the glaciers extraordinary color!

This little guy stole my heart!

Scenic Sunday

Camera Critters

Watery Wednesday

Watery Wednesday, Outdoor Wednesday, SkyWatch Friday / Orca Whales

2011-06-28T11:25:00.000-07:00

-click on photos to enlarge-

Orca Whales in Resurrection Bay, Gulf of Alaska USA.

June 20, 2011...

We had the joy of seeing SO many of them frolicking in the sea!

...and, the scenery was spectacular!

...just cruising along!

Watery Wednesday
Outdoor Wednesday
SkyWatch Friday

Blue Monday, Mellow Yellow, My World Tuesday / Bald Eagles of Alaska

2011-06-26T17:44:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!
Just a few of the Bald Eagles I enjoyed while in Alaska last week!

This guy is guarding the nest...

This is the same bird as above but much later...the joy of the "midnight sun" in Alaska!

Dinner is served!!!

I saw these and many others at Kachemak Bay, Homer, Alaska.

Blue Monday

Mellow Yellow

That's My World Tuesday

SkyWatch Friday, Scenic Sunday / Umbrella by the Pier, San Diego, California USA

2011-06-15T18:41:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

A nice day in San Diego!

We were walking to the pier at Imperial Beach when I spotted this umbrella.

I can't resist a colorful beach umbrella...ever!

SkyWatch Friday

Scenic Sunday

Camera Critters, Scenic Sunday, Blue Monday, Mellow Yellow, Ruby Tuesday / Doggie Surfing Contest - San Diego, California USA

2011-06-10T22:55:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!

These doggies participated in the 'doggie surfing' competition in San Diego on Saturday, June 4, 2011.

This little lady is Kalani.

She had a nice long ride!

This is Louie!

He made me laugh!

Gotta LOVE that face!

This is Louie's friend...can't remember his name...

This guy was trained to push his own surf board out until he was deep enough to hop on...perfection!

...a flawless performance...!!!

Camera Critters

Scenic Sunday

Blue Monday

Mellow Yellow

Ruby Tuesday

Blue Monday, Mellow Yellow, Ruby Tuesday, My World Tuesday / Balloon Glow

2011-06-05T09:46:00.000-07:00

Clock on photos to enlarge!

It seems I can't resist a 'balloon glow' or every combination of color I can create!

This is when the balloon was inflated and then the heat lifted it to an upright position...it's amazing to watch the process go from packed in the back of a van to ready for launch!

Although, these balloons were tethered to the ground for the night-time 'glow' event.

This is just a sample of the 'gazillion' photos I took this past Friday night, June 3, 2011.

Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival - Temecula, Califoria USA

Blue Monday

Mellow Yellow

Ruby Tuesday
My World Tuesday

Watery Wednesday, Outdoor Wednesday, SkyWatch Friday / A Sunset Sail

2011-05-31T00:25:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!

A sunset sail in Key West, Florida USA

I am always ready to return!

Watery Wednesday

Outdoor Wednesday

SkyWatch Friday

Ruby Tuesday, That's My World Tuesday / Tour of California Cycling Race (7th Stage)

2011-05-23T10:48:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

The 7th stage of the Tour of California Cycling Race started in our local area (Claremont, California).

Whoa...do they fly by FAST!
...and this guy isn't even in the race!

...nor this guy!
I tried some panning shots with a slow shutter speed for extra effect!

READY, SET, GO!!!
It was an amazing rush to see the start!

They sped by SO quickly!
I wanted to get back to my car and dash to another location where they would pass, but, it is impossible because of the huge crowds lining the streets.
You pick one spot and that is all you get.
It's over in a flash!

Ruby Tuesday
That's My World Tuesday

Today's Flowers, Scenic Sunday, Blue Monday, Mellow Yellow / Wisteria in the Bay Area

2011-05-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!
I so enjoyed the wisteria in the San Francisco Bay area on my recent visit.

These were among the grape vineyards of Livermore, California USA.

This is from another perspective of the top photo.

It was breezy so I tried a slower shutter speed to play with motion blur...1/15 second.

Today's Flowers
Scenic Sunday & Blue Monday
Mellow Yellow

SkyWatch Friday / Looking STRAIGHT up!

2011-05-18T15:35:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!
The sky soars above an old sailing ship docked at Hyde Street Pier in San Francisco, California USA.

...and the U.S. flag waves beautifully over the downtown area of Livermore, California USA.

A dark sky hovers over my head at home in southern California.

SkyWatch Friday

Watery Wednesday, Outdoor Wednesday, Weekend Reflections / It's All a Reflection2

2011-05-17T08:16:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

A window reflection of San Francisco Bay...it's all a reflection from a shop along the wharf.

Watery Wednesday

Outdoor Wednesday

Weekend Reflections

SkyWatch Friday, Scenic Sunday, Blue Monday, That's My World Tuesday / San Francisco Cable Cars

2011-05-11T09:45:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!

This was a perfect day to park the car and walk and walk and walk around San Francisco.

Our day ended with a climb up Hyde Street to find some great places to photograph the cable cars.

This one was going UP the hill!

This cute couple enjoyed the breeze as they came down the hill to the wharf area.

SkyWatch Friday
Scenic Sunday
Blue Monday

That's My World Tuesday

Blue Monday, That's My World Tuesday, Ruby Tuesday, Watery Wednesday / San Francisco, Calfifornia USA

2011-05-08T11:58:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!

The "Rocket Boat" speeds past Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay.

This boat isn't for me but I sure liked watching it!

Alcatraz is 1.5 miles from the Wharf area of San Francisco.

It has been a light house, a military prison and a penitentiary over the years.

Now, it's a great tourist attraction.

...and, of course a trip to San Francisco is incomplete without a bridge!

I can't believe I didn't get a shot of the Golden Gate!

Sinful, to say the least!

This is the Oakland Bay Bridge as we drove into the city from the east side of the bay.

It was a girls' road trip...such fun!

Thank you, Candi and Sally!

You 2 ROCK!

Blue Monday

That's My World Tuesday

Ruby Tuesday
Watery Wednesday

Weekend Reflections / Everything is a Reflection

2011-05-06T00:27:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

Everything is a reflection!!!

People are walking along the San Francisco Wharf area enjoying a nice sunny day in late April.

It was tricky keeping myself out of the picture!!!

Weekend Reflections

Watery Wednesday, Outdoor Wednesday / A Watery Reflection in the Eastern Sierras

2011-05-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

This is a scene from one of the Mammoth Lakes in the Eastern Sierra of California.

The area is one of my favorite places on our planet...
October 2010.

Watery Wednesday

Outdoor Wednesday

That's My World Tuesday, Ruby Tuesday / The Flower Fields @ Carlsbad Ranch, California USA

2011-05-02T11:07:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!

Buckets of the Giant Tecolote Ranunculus surround a beautiful white gazebo at the Flower Fields in Carlsbad, California USA

Yellows and pinks...whites and reds...purples and oranges!
The fields were rows and rows of color.

...whites and reds...purples and oranges!The fields were rows and rows of color.

It's a beautiful place to have a camera or have some professional photos taken!
The Flower Fields @ Carlsbad, California USA
March 1 - May 1, 2011

That's My World Tuesday
Ruby Tuesday

Weekend Reflections / There Is A Fine Line Between Inside And Outside

2011-04-28T18:53:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

There is a fine line between 'inside' and 'outside'.

I found this window reflection in the San Francisco Bay area town of Livermore while shopping with friends.

Actually...I was hunting for photo ops while they were shopping!!!

Weekend Reflections

SkyWatch Friday, Scenic Sunday, Blue Monday / Sunset Cliffs, San Diego, California USA

2011-04-28T09:35:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!

The Sunset Cliffs in San Diego (Point Loma) are a lovely place to spend some time walking along the bluffs at eye level with the Pelicans!

The weather was WONDERFUL on this very recent day!

Apparently LOVE is in the air too...not just pelicans!

SkyWatch Friday

Scenic Sunday

Blue Monday

My World Tuesday / Easter with Grandchildren = Pure Delight

2011-04-25T10:55:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!

Easter + Grandchildren = PURE DELIGHT

Baby Noah was happy to just sit on mommy's lap and chew on bunny ears...

big brother, Chase, wanted to smell the CHOCOLATE in his Easter basket...

...and, search for the GOLDEN egg!

He found it...FINALLY!

My World Tuesday

Ruby Tuesday, That's My World Tuesday, Mellow Yellow/ All But One!

2011-04-18T01:21:00.000-07:00

All But One!

We visited the flower fields in Carlsbad, California USA

There are over 50 acres of the Tecolote Ranunculus of all colors.

A few trespass into another color zone...LOVE it!
Click on photo to enlarge!

Ruby Tuesday

That's My World Tuesday
Mellow Yellow

Weekend Reflections / Inside Outside

2011-04-15T02:04:00.000-07:00

Downtown San Diego and San Diego Bay are reflected in this Coronado Island restaurant window...

and a few other interesting things...like the umbrella, pier, grass, sand, palm trees...and probably more!

Click on photo to enlarge!

Weekend Reflections

SkyWatch Friday, Scenic Sunday, Today's Flowers, Mellow Yellow, Blue Monday / From Across the Bay

2011-04-14T10:50:00.000-07:00

Viewing Downtown San Diego from Coronado Island

We spent Tuesday enjoying the delights of this wonderful California coastal region!

Great weather for walking and walking and walking!

Click on photo to enlarge!

SkyWatch Friday

Scenic Sunday

Today's Flowers

Mellow Yellow

Blue Monday

Weekend Reflections / Paradise Cove, Malibu, California USA

2011-04-08T00:08:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!
It was a great day for beach walking at Paradise Cove in Malibu, California USA.

...and, I found some reflections in the wet sand too...that's as good as it gets!

Weekend Reflection

My World Tuesday / Desperate Prayer

2011-04-04T08:46:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

This image means more to me today than when I took it 2 days ago. I was walking on the beach (El Matador Beach, Malibu, California USA) and saw this mask on top of a column of rock that stands about 30 or more feet high. The sun was behind the rock creating a brilliant glow around the top. I took several shots hoping to get a good one...left, and didn't give the mask much thought the rest of the day. As I was editing the image, I noticed the formation of praying hands in the rock and realized this was artfully placed to represent the strong emotion surrounding the pain and suffering in Japan. The realization, on my part, moved me to tears.

My World Tuesday

SkyWatch Friday

Blue Monday, Mellow Yellow, Ruby Tuesday, My World Tuesday / Beach Umbrellas in Paradise Cove, Malibu, California USA

2011-04-03T10:23:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!
My husband and I spent a day enjoying the amazing beach weather this past Friday.

I loved this umbrella!

It wears a blue grass skirt! =)

What can I say?

I can't deny it!

I am infatuated with beach umbrellas!

Paradise Cove, Malibu, California USA

April 1, 2011

Blue Monday

Mellow Yellow

Ruby Tuesday

Watery Wednesday

Weekend Reflections / El Matador State Park, Malibu, California USA

2011-04-01T01:03:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

The reflections are far away but, they are there...

We had a GORGEOUS day today so my husband and I went beach walking at El Matador State Park in Malibu, California USA.

March 31, 2011

Weekend Reflections

SkyWatch Friday / Reaching for the Sky!

2011-03-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

A desert Yucca reaches for the dazzling blue sky!

Palm Desert, California USA

SkyWatch Friday

Today's Flowers, Mellow Yellow, Camera Critters / Hello MOO Cow!

2011-03-25T09:21:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

I am loving that this MOO COW is standing by yellow flowers and all dressed up with yellow tags on her ears.

I stopped my car and approached carefully so not to scare her away.

I wish more of her face was showing, but, she kept a good eye on me as I came closer.

Today's Flowers

Mellow Yellow

Camera Critters

SkyWatch Friday / Looks Like Rain!

2011-03-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!
Uh Oh... the rain is going to make it to the desert!

We spent a few hours yesterday at the Living Desert in Palm Desert, CA.

We thought we would escape the rain in Los Angeles or prolong the "dry" a little longer...but, it caught up with us before we got home!

These tents are used by those who want to spend the night to observe the nocturnal creatures here.

This area is often used by school groups on overnight field trips.

But...LOOK at that sky!

Storms coming over the San Jacinto Mountains create some "big" drama to watch!

SkyWatch Friday

Ruby Tuesday / A Table for Two

2011-03-21T09:24:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

A table for two is available (outside in the rain)!

Would anyone like it?

I'll go inside, thank you!

Ruby Tuesday

Blue Monday, My World Tuesday, Watery Wednesday, Outdoor Wednesday / La Jolla = The Jewel

2011-03-19T23:54:00.000-07:00

Click on photos to enlarge!

The Sea Wall at La Jolla

La Jolla is pronounced, "La Hoya" and means "The Jewel."
The area is a beautiful part of the Southern California coastline just north of San Diego.

The bluffs are covered with color!

The coves are a haven for resting seals.

Blue Monday
My World Tuesday
Watery Wednesday
Outdoor Wednesday

Today's Flowers, Mellow Yellow / A Vine

2011-03-18T11:01:00.000-07:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

A vine growing in my backyard that shall remain "nameless," since I haven't a clue.

Today's Flowers

Mellow Yellow

SkyWatch Friday, Weekend Reflections / All Alone!

2011-03-17T10:29:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful late afternoon at Crescent Bay in Laguna Beach, CA

This guy had the water to himself!

SkyWatch Friday

Weekend Reflections

My World Tuesday / Kilts and Boots - Irish Festival, Los Angeles, CA USA

2011-03-13T16:02:00.000-07:00

Double click on photo to enlarge!
We really enjoyed an Irish Festival this weekend.

This is a bagpipe band marching through the festival grounds.

I LOVE the kilts and boots!

March 12, 2011

My World Tuesday

Color Carnival, Ruby Tuesday, Mellow Yellow, Blue Monday / Brooms Brooms Brooms

2011-03-12T22:08:00.000-08:00

We went to an Irish Festival here in the Los Angeles area today.

These colorful brooms caught my attention and I put my camera to work!

Click on photographs to enlarge!

Color Carnival

Ruby Tuesday

Mellow Yellow

Blue Monday

Weekend Reflections / Outdoor Tables Inside

2011-03-11T08:15:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

This is a reflection of outdoor tables & chairs in the window of one of the towers at the Crystal Cathedral in Orange, California.

The stairs are inside the building even though they appear to be a part of the reflection.

May God Bless Japan and her people after this devastating 8.9 earthquake.

I lift my prayers towards the Pacific Island nations.

Weekend Reflections

Scenic Sunday, Mellow Yellow, Blue Monday / Dead Fish Kill!

2011-03-05T00:44:00.000-08:00

Click on photos to enlarge!

I have been posting images of the Salton Sea which lies in the desert region of southern California.

It is nearly the lowest elevation in the USA, but, Death Valley actually holds that distinction.

But, the Salton Sea is the largest inland body of water in California.

Unfortunately, the water contains a high salinity level and is extremely polluted from

toxic run-off from the Coachella Valley.

As scenic as it is, it is a death-trap for fish.

The first clue that this body of water is a death-trap for fish is the SMELL!

Although, not too bad right now, because of cooler temperatures on the desert.

As the temperatures rise in the next few weeks, so will the stench of thousands (if not millions) of dead fish that line the shores.

NOT too pretty, right?

I used to water-ski here in the 60's but certainly not now.
It's a shame...part of it nature and part of it mankind...
something to think about...

Scenic Sunday
Blue Monday
Mellow Yellow

Weekend Reflections / Baby Michelle's Baptism

2011-03-04T00:45:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

I attended a wedding recently where a family baptism occurred after the marriage ceremony was completed.

A nice reflection was waiting for me in the baptismal font as the couple enjoyed conversation with their priest.

Weekend Reflections

SkyWatch Friday / Old Wagon in the Snow - Oak Glen, California USA

2011-03-02T14:44:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!
Our family enjoyed a snow-day on Monday at Oak Glen, California.

We were delighted the snow level from our last storm dumped the pretty white stuff on the lower elevations of our local mountains.

No "serious" mountain driving was necessary.

Oak Glen is a beautiful little valley full of apple orchards.

I have seen this old wagon many times but, finally, I got a shot of it in the snow.

It was a beautiful sunny day...which means this snow will be gone in a very short time.

SkyWatch Friday

Watery Wednesday / Salton Sea II

2011-02-28T20:32:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

This is a continuation of my images from the Salton Sea, California USA.

My husband and I drove out to the desert to explore this place once again after many years.

The area sits on the San Andras Fault and is just slightly higher than the lowest elevation in the USA, Death Valley carries that distinction.

Water drains into this area and carries with it a high salinity content.

The intensely salty water has changed this area greatly just over the past 40 years.

I used to water ski here when I was a kid and now boating seems to be history, only.

Fish die in great numbers and their carcasses can be found lining the shores of this pretty scene.

Of course, I will post photos of the shoreline soon...

just hold your noses, 'cuz it stinks!

You can find my previous post here.

Watery Wednesday
Outdoor Wednesday

Blue Monday, Mellow Yellow / Salton Sea - Empty Beach

2011-02-27T23:27:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

We spent some time out at the Salton Sea, (California) this afternoon. This was a water-sports' paradise back in the 1950's and 1960's. Since then the salinity levels have increased so much that the area has a strong stench of dead fish, especially in hot weather.

It was a pleasant 68 degrees (F) today...not too stinky.

I will be posting more photos in the coming days and some will be quite graphic showing the skeletal remains of the fish. The shoreline is covered with birds feasting on very salty fish!

Needless to say...my shoes are outside and will stay there after an afternoon walking the shores of this quite scenic, but stinky place!

Blue Monday

Mellow Yellow

Today's Flowers / Lensbaby Work

2011-02-26T11:52:00.000-08:00

Click on photos to enlarge!
A rose from a friend's wedding last weekend.

This is a Magenta Senetti that I have in a pot in my yard.
I used my Lensbaby Composer with the soft focus optic, and macro +10 on these shots...way fun!

Today's Flowers

SkyWatch Friday, Weekend Reflections / Pastel Light

2011-02-24T09:16:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!
This is Crescent Bay at Laguna Beach, California.

It was taken facing opposite the sunset looking southeast on February 17, 2011.

This is one special little patch of sand along our Orange County Beaches.
You can see images while looking in other directions here and here.
HDR with 3 exposures: -2, 0, 2

SkyWatch Friday

(and)

Weekend Reflections

My World Tuesday, Blue Monday, Watery Wednesday / Golden Sand

2011-02-21T01:31:00.000-08:00

Click on photos to enlarge!

This is a continuation of my evening at the beach last week.

My previous post and this are from Crescent Bay, Laguna Beach, California USA.

No matter which direction I gazed, I saw the most incredible color and light that I have seen in a long time.

The next day...RAIN!

These are HDR photos with 3 exposures at -2, 0, 2 and then fused with Photomatix software.

My World Tuesday

Watery Wednesday

Blue Monday

Weekend Reflections, Scenic Sunday, Sunset Sunday, Mellow Yellow / There's GOLD in the Sand!

2011-02-18T01:40:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

I spent the late afternoon and evening at this wonderful little cove called, "Crescent Bay."

It's part of Laguna Beach, California.

A storm is supposed to bring us rain all weekend.

The new weather system brings us a golden sunset!
I wonder if the man on the rocks found a better view???
Hmmm...I'll have to check it out next time!

Weekend Reflections

Scenic Sunday

Sunset Sunday

Mellow Yellow

SkyWatch Friday / 2:21:30

2011-02-16T20:35:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

It is 2:21:30 and the sky is now getting white with over-cast.

The rain will be here soon!

SkyWatch Friday

Blue Monday, Ruby Tuesday / Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-13T10:25:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!
I saw this valentine on the window of a stationery store.

Happy Valentine's Day!
Lensbaby Composer, double glass optic, f2

Blue Monday

Ruby Tuesday

Today's Flowers, Mellow Yellow / Iceland Poppies, Indio, California USA

2011-02-12T23:01:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!
It was a beautiful sunny day and perfect for an afternoon drive out to the desert.

I found these Iceland Poppies in the desert region of Indio, California which is in the heart of the Coachella Valley.

February 10, 2011
Lensbaby, Composer, f4, double glass optic

Today's Flowers

Mellow Yellow

SkyWatch Friday, Weekend Reflections / Wavy Mirrored Glass

2011-02-10T08:33:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

The glass on the side of this building is wavy and it sure collects quite an assortment of reflections!

It's a business building in Riverside, California.

February 5, 2011

SkyWatch Friday

Weekend Reflections

Watery Wednesday, Outdoor Wednesday / A Walk Across the Sand

2011-02-08T12:47:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

Oh, yes...the water is there and a few surfers are enjoying the late afternoon hours on February 6, 2011.
Some watch the Super Bowl while others choose a great beach day!

This guy is about to join the others.

Watery Wednesday
Outdoor Wednesday

Today's Flowers, Shadow Shot Sunday, Ruby Tuesday / Me and My Shadow

2011-02-04T16:31:00.000-08:00

I'm loving how this red Amaryllis grew just like it is supposed to do! Success!

Today's Flowers

Shadow Shot Sunday

Ruby Tuesday

Watery Wednesday / Sugar Coated Water Drops

2011-02-01T02:01:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

The reflections on these water drops remind me of sugar...maybe I'm just hungry???
I put a red and white polka-dot towel underneath a glass plate lined with waxed paper.

I sprinkled water droplets across the plate trying to not allow them to blend together.

A little side lighting, 60mm macro lens and a long exposure created this "master-piece."

Okay...not a master-piece but, it was fun!

One idea leads to the next...more colorful background next time and a lot more water droplets!

Watery Wednesday

Blue Monday, Mellow Yellow & Ruby Tuesday - Perched in Palm Springs, California USA

2011-01-30T21:00:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

These two guys are perched in a GREAT Mexican restaurant in Palm Springs, California USA

My husband and I perch ourselves there every so often too!

Blue Monday

Mellow Yellow

Ruby Tuesday

Color Carnival

Watery Wednesday, Outdoor Wednesday / Sunset at Puddingstone Lake, San Dimas, Calfifornia USA

2011-01-25T01:03:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!
Tonight's sunset from Puddingstone Lake in San Dimas, California USA

Watery Wednesday
Outdoor Wednesday

Pretty in Pink

2011-01-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

Pretty in Pink!

Click on photo to enlarge!
I brought home some tulips from our local florist and then played with my Lensbaby Composer to get this shot.

Today's Flowers
This is My World Tuesday

Mellow Yellow, Ruby Tuesday, Blue Monday, Midweek Blues - Under a Pier

2011-01-22T23:51:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!
There were several pilings behind me as I took this photo because the tide was out so far.

It was a rather chilly day at the beach with a thick marine layer and wind.

But I think a bad day at the beach is still a very good day!

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Weekend Reflections - Cold Weather Fishing - Newport Pier, Newport Beach, California USA

2011-01-20T22:53:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!
Fishing on the Newport Pier, Newport Beach, California

It was cloudy, damp and cold yesterday at the beach but, sunny and warm 30 miles inland.

What a difference a few miles can make!

Weekend Reflections

SkyWatch Friday - Feeding Seagulls!

2011-01-20T10:24:00.000-08:00

I was under the pier at Newport Beach, CA taking pictures when suddenly a mass of seagulls launched into the air and hovered overhead.

This guy caught a morsel tossed from the side of the pier.

The beach was very damp, cold and cloudy...just a white sky!

Phun Phriday, Today's Flowers, Mellow Yellow, Ruby Tuesday & Color Carnival / ZOOM!

2011-01-13T22:36:00.000-08:00

ZOOM!

I had some PHUN playing with Photoshop again.

This is a 25% zoom using Photoshop Elements 5.

I would really like to accomplish this in camera.

Eventually I'll see what I can do.

Click on the photo to enlarge (if you really want to get dizzy)

Phun Phriday
hosted by Scott at Finding Another View

Color Carnival
Today's Flowers
Mellow Yellow
Ruby Tuesday

Watery Wednesday, Outdoor Wednesday / Hellooooo

2011-01-11T10:51:00.000-08:00

Helloooooo!

Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach, California USA

January 5, 2011
Click on photo to enlarge!

Watery Wednesday

Outdoor Wednesday

Phun Phriday / Twirling Cocktail Umbrellas

2011-01-06T18:54:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!
I had a little phun with my cocktail umbrellas in Elements 5.

A 10% radial blur got these umbrellas twirling!

Phun Phriday

hosted by Scott at Finding Another View
Color Carnival
Blue Monday
Mellow Yellow

Camera Critters / My Kitty

2011-01-06T10:40:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

This is my kitty photographed with my new Lensbaby Composer lens!

I think I am going to have lots of fun with this new toy!

Camera Critters

The Weekend in Black and White, That's My World Tuesday / Pure Sweetness

2011-01-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

This little guy won my heart as I was window shopping last night, New Year's Day.

The Weekend in Black and White

That's My World Tuesday

Camera Critters, Mellow Yellow, Ruby Tuesday - Behind the Scenes of the Rose Parade, Pasadena, California USA

2011-01-01T13:06:00.000-08:00

Click on photos to enlarge!
I drove to Pasadena to 3 different locations where the float decorating was taking place.

If you saw the parade, either live or via t.v., you probably saw some of these images gracing the floats.

These beautiful horses were on the float which was dedicated to "Saving the Mustangs."

They are covered in various seeds to create their beautiful markings.

White mums are being applied to this cute little face!

This man is cutting dried flowers into tiny pieces.

These giant flowers are waiting to be covered in seeds and then they will support beautiful floral bouquets once mounted upon their float.

I also photographed buckets of white roses which are on my previous post.

You can see them here.

Camera Critters

Mellow Yellow

Ruby Tuesday

Community Photo Challenge (white), Today's Flowers & Scenic Sunday - Buckets of White Roses

2010-12-30T22:16:00.000-08:00

Click on photos to enlarge!

These buckets of white roses were waiting to be placed on various Rose Parade floats yesterday.

I drove over to Pasadena to watch, once again, the decorating.

It is Thursday night...the judging is tomorrow morning...the parade is Saturday morning.

and...these roses were still in buckets yesterday late afternoon...

they will finish, they always do!

...and more white roses...

There were buckets of flowers of all kinds and colors, but...I LOVE white roses!

I can't wait to see the finished floats on New Years morning...Happy New Year to all of you!

Community Photo Challenge

The theme is "white."

Today's Flowers

Scenic Sunday

SkyWatch Friday & Looking at the Sky on Friday / Flood Control Channel at the Rose Bowl, Pasadena, California USA

2010-12-30T11:11:00.000-08:00

Click on photo to enlarge!

This is a flood control channel that runs beside the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.

It was a rainy day but I chose to take the drive to view the float decorating anyway.

People have to be rescued from these channels every year because it seems they don't know what the fences are for...smart, huh?

The sky had a little bit of attitude at 5:00 p.m.

No rain, PLEASE, for the Rose Parade on New Years Day!

SkyWatch Friday

Looking at the Sky on Friday