31-DEC-2013
They're Back!
The bald eagle is back at Delta Ponds, at least this one is! They have lots of room there to survey the area from the trees.
Bald eagles have a wingspan of about 7 feet (2 meters), second in size only to the California condor. Of course, bald eagles aren't really bald. The white-feathers on their heads stand out in contrast with their chocolate-brown body and wings. Making them even more colorful are Their legs and bills, which are bright yellow.
30-DEC-2013
Under The Radar!
It was a real joy to capture This egret as it flew low above the grass of Delta Ponds. They are so beautiful in flight for such a tall, gangly bird when standing. Pure grace in flight!
29-DEC-2013
Golden Crowned Sparrow
While visiting Alton Baker Park, I was able to photograph this pretty Golden Crowned Sparrow.
28-DEC-2013
Bridge to Cuthbert Amphitheater, Alton Baker Park
From the Pre Trail in Alton Baker Park, one crosses this bridge to get to Hays Tree Garden and the Cuthbert Amphitheater. Here is the bridge on a very foggy morning.
27-DEC-2013
The Tree
I was really drawn to this tree in a field along McKenzie View Drive.
26-DEC-2013
Armitage Bridge (Coburg Railroad Bridge)
Since my day was cut short today because of an accident, I posted this photo of the historic Armitage Bridge, originally a railroad bridge and now used as a pedestrian bridge.
Interesting information about the bridge is found here -
http://bridgehunter.com/or/lane/armitage/ As shown in the photo there, the bridge sits alongside Coburg Road and the I-5 freeway bridge is in the background.
25-DEC-2013
Fog Frost (Pogonip)
The frost created by fog is so amazing and beautiful! A photo just can't do it justice. But at least I tried!
24-DEC-2013
Total Concentration
This Great Blue Heron was so intent on its prey that it didn't even notice me sneaking up on it. I was able to get pretty close for this shot, made at Alton Baker Park. How those skinny legs hold them up is amazing to me.
23-DEC-2013
Leaving the Launch Pad
This egret needed only a small launching pad, a limb sticking out of the water, to get into the air. It is amazing how those big birds can lift off as quickly as they do! This scene is in Delta Ponds.
(My D3 is now on its way to Nikon for cleaning. After five years of use, it's about time.)
22-DEC-2013
Reflection on Kirk Pond
The sun broke through as my friend, John, and I shot pictures of Kirk Pond along Clear Lake Road. Just across the road is Fern Ridge Dam. The sunlight brought life to the hill and trees across the pond, making what I thought was a pretty scene.
D1xb-122113-064
21-DEC-2013
Filbert (Hazelnut) Orchard, Dorris Ranch
This photograph was recorded at Dorris Ranch, "a national historic site, a working farm and a public park complete with walking trails and natural areas. Dorris Ranch also serves as the western access point of the paved, four-mile long Middle Fork Path, which runs to Clearwater Park." (Quoted from Willamalane Park and Recreation District website -
http://www.willamalane.org/pages/parks/dorris.shtml)
20-DEC-2013
Carol and Miko in Her Recliner
Wherever you find Carol, you will find Miko, our little Pekinese/Chihuahua mix. He has to be close to her. Here you see him in his favorite spot on Carol's recliner just above her head.
19-DEC-2013
A Fine Catch!
This morning, I watched a Great Blue Heron and a Great Egret fishing not far from each other. The heron starting moving forward slowly. I thought it was going to chase the egret away. Instead, all of a sudden it struck and came up with a large fish. This is one of a few shots I got of the bird and its prey. It has been pretty foggy here for a few days, and was again this morning.
18-DEC-2013
Cracks in the Ice!
It's interesting that we still have some ice on Delta Ponds, even though we have had a few warm days since our snow storm and ice last week. Our snow is pretty much gone now, except for a few spots and what is piled up in parking lots.
I wonder what winter is going to be like?
17-DEC-2013
An Oregon Industry
For years now, one of Oregon's major industries has been timber. Though timber production has been reduced, Oregon remains a leading producers of lumber in the US. This small mill operation is representative of what was seen in many more locations in the past.
Some of the changes have been noted in Wikipedia:
"Vast forests have historically made Oregon one of the nation's major timber production and logging states, but forest fires (such as the Tillamook Burn), over-harvesting, and lawsuits over the proper management of the extensive federal forest holdings have reduced the timber produced. According to the Oregon Forest Resources Institute, between 1989 and 2001 the amount of timber harvested from federal lands dropped some 96%, from 4,333 million to 173 million board feet (10,000,000 to 408,000 m3), although harvest levels on private land have remained relatively constant.[54]."
16-DEC-2013
Bearded One!
The long hair on this Great Blue Heron's neck reminds me of a beard. Certainly is a handsome bird, don't you think? Seen at Delta Ponds.
15-DEC-2013
Like Dancers in the Spotlight
Some in this grove of trees stood out in the morning light, like dancers in a ballroom spotlight.
Hey, I have a good imagination! LOL
14-DEC-2013
Log House On A Hill
The morning sun highlighted this log house against a foggy hill. This is the largest log home I have seen and it is beautiful.
13-DEC-2013
Frosty Fence!
The snow and ice is going away! Hooray! But I have to say that the frost made this fence look better!
12-DEC-2013
POGONIP!
Freezing fog can leave icy spikes, called 'Pogonip' in the Western US, on leaves and branches of trees.
Definition of POGONIP:
a dense winter fog containing frozen particles that is formed in deep mountain valleys of the western United States
Origin of POGONIP - Shoshone paã i̵napp i̵h cloud; First Known Use: 1865
Definition of HOARFROST:
"hoar·frost (hôrfrôst, -frst, hr-) n. Frozen dew that forms a white coating on a surface. Also called white frost."
11-DEC-2013
A December Day
I finally dug the Explorer out of the snow this morning and went to get groceries. Coming home I saw this scene along the edge of the store parking lot, with the ice covered trees against a dark, threatening sky.
10-DEC-2013
S'no Foolin!
Our old bird bath isn't quite ready for customers! While it is still snowing in this scene, the snow is supposed to gradually start going away tomorrow. Only problem is that we now have a storm warning for freezing rain tomorrow night and Thursday. Seems to be a lot of winter weather in autumn.
09-DEC-2013
Snowball
Snowball, one of the sculptures on the Lane Transit District EmX Gateway route. decorates the route along Pioneer Parkway. The sculpture is by Portland artist Devin Laurence Field.
08-DEC-2013
Can You Give Me A Hand?
I wonder if the guy who is missing this single glove might be called 'Cool Hand Luke'?
07-DEC-2013
Electric Elegance
A yard light in the snow was backlighted by the sun, making it look like it was shining on its own. With a topping of snow that looks like a fancy tophot, the light looks quite debonair to me.
06-DEC-2013
The Magic of Snow
Snow can do some magical things to the landscape, and to many other things it touches.
A bench can be beautified by the fallen snow, as this bench is, in my point of view.
I hope you agree.
05-DEC-2013
Edged in Frost!
I looked out the window into the backyard and saw backlit leaves edged in frost. Frost in the right kind of light can be so beautiful! I just had to brave the cold so that I could go out there to get some pictures. Then I needed to move around till I had a dark background. This is what I got.
04-DEC-2013
Arctic Cold Front
03-DEC-2013
Boat Dock
This boat dock stood out on this foggy day at Dexter Lake. Now, it is turning very cold tonight, and was getting pretty icy out there by 6:00 PM.
02-DEC-2013
A Wisp of Fog
A bit of fog in the Coburg Hills of Western Oregon.
01-DEC-2013
Light and Dark
I saw these leaves under a bridge with backlight giving them a colorful glow. They practically jumped out against the dark rocks where they were growing. It made such a great contrast between light and dark that I couldn't resist a shot. The leaves are not perfect, but that's the effect of age on us all. :) Perhaps it was their last hoorah before they fall and winter is upon us.
30-NOV-2013
Log In Grass On Frosty Morning
We have recently had some frosty mornings, because of cold Arctic air coming in from the north. I like how the frost beautifies scene such as this.
29-NOV-2013
Merganser With a Mouthful
While at Delta Ponds this morning, I watched some Hooded Mergansers that were quite a ways out in the pond. In this shot the male is in the lead with two females following close behind. I could tell in the full frame that the male had something in its beak, but not what. In this cropped picture, one can see that it definitely does have a catch that looks like a fish or frog.
On my computer screen it appears that an eye is visible like that of a fish. In other frames, the male tried to swallow it and finally got it down! It was fun to watch, but I could only really see it by using an 18-300mm zoom lens.
28-NOV-2013
Brown Creeper
I was standing behind a tree at Delta Ponds this morning trying to get some pictures of an egret when I saw a movement in the tree right in front of me! With my eyes the way they are, I don't always see small things. But there it was, a small bird creeping up the tree, feeding. It must not have noticed me because I was pretty close. I never saw it until I saw movement. It blended in with the tree so well!
I had never seen one like it so when I got home I checked my book for the slightly curved beak and the colors, browns and white with a white breast. The picture and description of the Brown Creeper fit perfectly, even to the tail feathers. Quite a thrill, I had never seen one before!
27-NOV-2013
Mountain Road
Driving in the Coburg Hills is a real source of joy. So much beauty is found out there away from the maddening crowd. This is one of the mountain roads I love to roam.
26-NOV-2013
Wood Duck Or Wooden Duck? Such marvelous colors!
Wood Ducks always look like a wood carving to me, something with colors coming out of the carver's mind. They are simply awesome creations! This one was swimming in the waters of Delta Ponds, which were reflecting the autumn leaves of surrounding trees.
25-NOV-2013
Landing Pattern
I grabbed a shot of this Great Blue Heron as it came in for a landing in a tree, not far from Fern Ridge Dam. They never cease to amaze me. Did I tell you I love herons? :)
24-NOV-2013
Just a Bit of a Frost!
We have had a bit of frost the last few mornings as the temperature dipped into the low 20's F. It feels icy cold out there.
I shot these leaves edged with frost at Alton Baker Park.
23-NOV-2013
Rainy Day Color
It was a cloudy day threatening rain in the Hays Tree Garden at Alton Baker park. But at least the colors were great!
22-NOV-2013
Beauty That Will Soon Be Gone
I was still able to find a beautiful flower but the frost we are getting is ending it all. Don't know what the flower is. Can anyone ID it for me? Thanks to Carrie and Walt for the ID! - Caryopteris (bluebeard) See -
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caryopteris
21-NOV-2013
Alton Baker Pond Scene
I was attracted to this pond scene at Alton Baker Park this morning. It was cold out there (for me anyway)! Temperature was about 25 degrees F, our coldest morning so far this year.
20-NOV-2013
Romance in The Ponds
Picked up my Tamron 18-270 at the camera shop late this afternoon. This was the lens I dropped with my D1x. It's back from repairs and seems to work better than ever. Since the camera shop is close to Delta Ponds I went there to do some test shots. I ran out of daylight but still got this shot of a couple young lovers pausing for a kiss along the water.
19-NOV-2013
Well Watered
With our recent rains, everything got a good soaking.
18-NOV-2013
Another One of the Ponds
This is a scene from another of the Delta Ponds on a cloudy morning. Wouldn't it be great to have a blue sky behind these colors? If I waited for that, I wouldn't be shooting many pictures.
17-NOV-2013
Portrait of Cloud
Carol's horse Cloud, an Arabian/appaloosa mix, is a beautiful horse. I thought this portrait shows his beauty.
17-NOV-2013
The Colors of Delta Ponds
Fall colors can be beautiful at Delta Ponds.
15-NOV-2013
Look At Those Wings!
I was excited to get this view of an egret flying past at Delta Ponds. They are so pretty, and look at that wingspan!
14-NOV-2013
A Reason Why I Love Alton Baker Park
Alton Baker Park is a large park, full of variety, a place where I find so much enjoyment with my photography. This scene shows why I love the park. Here is a quote from the City of Eugene webpage - "Alton Baker Park, Eugene’s largest developed park, is home to dozens of recreational features and facilities serving the City of Eugene since 1959. The park is made up of two major areas: the more developed West Alton Baker Park, and the 237-acre Whilamut Natural Area." See:
https://www.eugene-or.gov/Facilities/Facility/Details/29
13-NOV-2013
Douglas Fir Cone - Male or Female?
"The Coast Douglas Fir reaches maturity and begins producing cones at 12 to 15 years old. The male cones are usually about 2 centimeters long and are a yellow or dark red color. The female cones are a bit larger at about 3 centimeters long and are green or dark red in color. The female cones have large bracts and can start pollination soon after they develop. By mid-September the cones have fully matured and the seeds have ripened. The mature cones are then 8 to 10 centimeters in size and the bracts turn brown once the seed is also mature. Once cone maturity is reached seed fall begins. By the end of October 2/3 of the total amount of seeds have fallen and by the following spring the rest of the seeds will have fallen. The number of cones produced each year is dependent on numerous variables. It depends heavily on the number of primordia that develop into actual buds. Harsh frosts and insects are also responsible for destroying the seed cones before they reach maturity. Older trees have the advantage of producing more cones then the younger ones. ." Quote from -
http://bioweb.uwlax.edu/bio203/s2009/cook_morg/Reproduction.htm
12-NOV-2013
Dark-eyed Junco (Oregon Junco)
This bird, seen at Delta Ponds, looks like the Chestnut-backed Chickadee in my Birds of Oregon, except for the coloration of the head. This one is all black but the Chestnut-Backed Chickadee has a black and white head. Can someone positively ID it for me?
NOTE: Thanks to Carl and others who identified this pretty bird for me!
11-NOV-2013
Pretty Bird In Pretty Setting!
Great Egret at Delta Ponds
"The Great Egret is a large heron with all-white plumage. Standing up to 1 m (3.3 ft) tall, this species can measure 80 to 104 cm (31 to 41 in) in length and have a wingspan of 131 to 170 cm (52 to 67 in)....Apart from size, the Great Egret can be distinguished from other white egrets by its yellow bill and black legs and feet..." (Wikipedia)
10-NOV-2013
Walking the Poodle
Maurie Jacobs Park is quite pretty this fall with the nice colors. I think this man walking his poodle adds the right touch to a pretty picture.
09-NOV-2013
Carol's W&A Porcelain Lady In Her Parlour.
This is one of Carol's German porcelain figurines. I think she is very pretty.
Information from online - "The figure was made by WAGNER AND APEL (W & A) GmbH, PORCELAIN FIGURINES LIPPELSDORF, LIPPELSDORF54, 98743 GRAFENTHAL/THUR. WAGNER & APEL (Thuringia, East Germany - 1877 to current day), a fine company making beautiful wares."
This was written about a different figurine but I think it fits here too. :) - "You only have to look to see the beauty of this piece - the pose, the color, the intricacy and flow of the modeling. Germany was the front runner in producing European hard-paste porcelain as early as 1710. This piece is new in comparison, but a stunning item all the same."
08-NOV-2013
Confrontation!
It seems that these two Great Blue Herons at Delta Ponds had a serious disagreement over a Great White Egret. The one on the right finally backed down and went to a different spot in the pond. I am glad I was right there to see it all. I had a front row seat!
07-NOV-2013
Into The Light
The sunlight was starting to shine through the fog, giving this effect as I drove out of the forest.
06-NOV-2013
Delta Ponds Bridge in the Dark
I got caught by the darkness while at Delta Ponds this afternoon. It sure gets dark early now that we are on Standard Time. But as a result, I was blessed with a nice view of the Delta Ponds footbridge with its lights on. All's well that end well!
05-NOV-2013
Carol Has Some Help Around The House
Our middle daughter gave us a tall figurine that now resides with us. Carol dressed her up with new hair and a tray full of drinks. It's nice to have her around. :) Should I call her 'Carol the 2nd'?
By the way, I got a new focusing screen for the old D1x and we are up and running again!
04-NOV-2013
Simply Light
"I have seized the light. I have arrested its flight." (Louis Daguerre)
03-NOV-2013
Rainy Days in Oregon
Western Oregon is having a rainy spell to start November, which is usually a wet month. But remember, that's what keeps Oregon green! Sometimes it rains hard!
02-NOV-2013
Morning Colors On Dexter Lake
The trees along Dexter Lake really showed their color in the morning sunlight.
Information about the lake from Wikipedia:
Dexter Lake is a reservoir behind Dexter Dam in Lane County, Oregon, United States.
It is about 16 miles southeast of Eugene on the Middle Fork Willamette River, immediately downriver from Lookout Point Dam.
Surface elevation: 643' (196 m)
Area: 1.602 sq miles (4.15 km²)
Outflow location: Middle Fork Willamette River
Inflow source: Middle Fork Willamette River
Cities: Dexter, Lowell
01-NOV-2013
River Otter
I got a chance to see some River Otters at Delta Ponds. It was quite a thrill because I don't believe I have seen one before.
North American river otter from Wikipedia -
"The North American river otter (Lontra canadensis), also known as the northern river otter or the common otter, is a semiaquatic mammal endemic to the North American continent found in and along its waterways and coasts. An adult river otter can weigh between 5.0 and 14 kg (11.0 and 31 lb). The river otter is protected and insulated by a thick, water-repellent coat of fur.
The river otter, a member of the weasel family, is equally versatile in the water and on land. It establishes a burrow close to the water's edge in river, lake, swamp, coastal shoreline, tidal flat, or estuary ecosystems. The den typically has many tunnel openings, one of which generally allows the otter to enter and exit the body of water. Female otters give birth in these underground burrows, producing litters of one to six young.
North American river otters, like most predators, prey upon the most readily accessible species. Fish is a favored food among the otters, but they also consume various amphibians, turtles, and crayfish. Instances of river otters eating small mammals and occasionally birds have been reported as well.
The range of the North American river otter has been significantly reduced by habitat loss, beginning with the European colonization of North America. In some regions, though, their population is controlled to allow the trapping and harvesting of otters for their pelts. River otters are very susceptible to environmental pollution, which is a likely factor in the continued decline of their numbers. A number of reintroduction projects have been initiated to help stabilize the reduction in the overall population."
31-OCT-2013
Getting Acquainted
While walking at Delta Ponds this morning, I noticed someone standing at the end of a pedestrian bridge. I walked down to investigate and saw that he had worked up very close to a Great Blue Heron that landed on the bridge railing. It looked like they were getting acquainted. Naturally, I took the opportunity to capture some pictures. This is quite unusual, that such birds stand still long enough to get close. Paul and I walked to a few different spots after this, and all of the herons and egrets we saw flew away if we got very close.
It was great getting acquainted with Paul myself. We exchanged information and will stay in touch. Paul is a fine photographer himself and I look forward seeing more of his photos.
30-OCT-2013
Boater on Dexter Lake
Some of what we call lakes here are actually reservoirs behind flood control dams. This is the case of Dexter Lake which stands behind Dexter Dam on the Willamette River about 25 miles from Eugene. The lake is often used for recreation and as a practice site for the University of Oregon rowing team. I went to school in Lowell which now sits along the shore of Dexter Lake. It wasn't there when I went to school there.
This photo of a boater on Dexter Lake is made more dramatic by the early morning light.
29-OCT-2013
Elephant Ears (Colocasia)
"Colocasia is a genus of 25 or more species of flowering plants in the family Araceae, native to tropical Polynesia and southeastern Asia. Common names include Elephant-ear, Taro, Cocoyam, Dasheen, Chembu, and Eddoe. Elephant-ear and Cocoyam are also used for some other large-leaved genera in the Araceae, notably Xanthosoma and Caladium. The generic name is derived from the ancient Greek word kolokasion which in the Greek botanist Dioscorides (1st century AD) meant the edible roots of both Colocasia esculenta and Nelumbo nucifera. It is thought that the edible roots of Colocasia esculenta have been cultivated in Asia for more than ten thousand years." - (Wikipedia)
28-OCT-2013
The Java Hut!
As you can see, I am heading for an early morning latte! Mmm, mmm good!
27-OCT-2013
Framed!
I talked Carol into posing for me in one of the stalls at the stables. These are the stalls used for Angie's horses. I liked how she is framed. :)
26-OCT-2013
Early Morning at Dexter Dam
Dexter Dam sits on the Willamette River across Hwy 58 from Dexter, OR. The small town of Lowell sits along the shores of Dexter Lake, which is used for University of Oregon rowing team. It's a beautiful recreation area. Above Dexter Dam and Dexter Lake lies the bigger Lookout Point Dam.
25-OCT-2013
Mt. Washington, Oregon Cascades
A view of Mt Washington from the Santiam Pass.
"Mount Washington is a deeply eroded shield volcano in the Cascade Range of Oregon. The mountain dates to the Late Pleistocene. However, it does have a line of basaltic andesite spatter cones on its northeast flank which are approximately 1,330 years old according to carbon dating. The main peak is a volcanic plug that was heavily eroded.." (Wikipedia)
24-OCT-2013
Bike Riding in Eugene
Eugene Oregon is a bicycle friendly city. Notice what the City of Eugene website has to say about provisions for bike riding -
"Eugene's growing bicycle network includes:
•42 miles of shared-use paths,
•81 miles of on-street bicycle lanes,
•35 miles of signed bikeways, and
•5 bicycle/pedestrian bridges spanning the Willamette River
•2 bicycle/pedestrian bridges spanning major roads or highways"
23-OCT-2013
Carol and Cloud
Carol and I went with Angie, our oldest daughter, to the stables where she boards her horses. Cloud, an Arabian/Appaloosa mix and a gorgeous horse, belongs to Carol, with an assist from Angie, who is his trainer. Carol loves to visit him, as you can see here.
Photo shot before I dropped and damaged my 'new' beloved D1x. Pretty much destroyed a Tamron 18-270 VC lens too.
22-OCT-2013
Laughing Tree
I came across this tree while walking along the river. Never could figure out what it was laughing about. :)
21-OCT-2013
Ambitious Spider!
I think the spider here took on a bit too much, and left before finishing. What do you think?
20-OCT-2013
Inside Belknap Covered Bridge
"The Belknap Bridge (also McKenzie River Bridge) crosses the McKenzie River near the unincorporated community of Rainbow in Lane County, Oregon, United States. It is approximately three miles west of the town of McKenzie Bridge which is named after the bridge. It is the fourth covered bridge built on the site. The bridge is well maintained and open to traffic. The Belknap Bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places." (Wikipedia)
19-OCT-2013
Clear Lake, the Origin of the McKenzie River
Clear Lake is a beautiful spot in the Cascade Mountains. The well-known McKenzie River has its origin there. The lake has lovely blue and green water, depending on where you look. The name is certainly appropriate. Clear Lake Resort and campground is popular and was a busy place this morning. For information about Clear Lake and Resort, go here -
http://www.linnparks.com/pages/parks/clearlake.html
18-OCT-2013
I Was In a Fog All Morning!
I headed out for a walk early and it was very foggy out there! I couldn't even see a block away! I thought this particular photo shows how far one can see. It finally cleared up in the afternoon and was nice, about 64 deg. F. I didn't go out then. Guess it was too nice! :)
17-OCT-2013
Nature's Jewelry
The wonders of creation never cease to amaze me. I see designs far more beautiful and intricate than what we humans create. This is one reason I am drawn to photography, a mean s of humbly copying the beauties I see.
The dew drops on this center of a spider web certainly make one such gem of nature for me to photograph.
16-OCT-2013
Along Middle Fork Path
I took a walk this afternoon along the Willamette River on Middle Fork Path. Very colorful leaves, mostly yellow and brown. Recent heavy rains stifled the colors a bit, so they aren't as brilliant as they could be. Still. when backlit on a sunny day the leaves make for beautiful photos. I really enjoyed the walk.
15-OCT-2013
Sahalie Falls On The McKenzie River
"Sahalie Falls is the first and tallest of three major waterfalls along the McKenzie River. This sheer plunge of 73 feet is broken into two segments when the river is running at its highest volume but is more commonly a single powerful plunge. Sahalie is by far the most famous of the large waterfalls along the McKenzie, as illustrated in the falls being used in the Disney movie "Homeward Bound"."
"Well known as the falls may be, documentation of the falls over the years has seemingly had trouble establishing a firm height for the drop. Many accounts suggest the falls drop around 140 feet. A handful of gutsy whitewater kayakers who plunged over the falls measured the drop at 68 feet, while our measurement of the falls in 2010 came out to 73 feet. Whether the difference between these two numbers depends on the volume of water present in the river is unclear, but it is certain the falls are nowhere near 140 feet tall."
14-OCT-2013
Three Fingered Jack, in The Oregon Cascades
"Three Fingered Jack is located in the Mount Jefferson Wilderness and is not accessible by paved road, but can be approached by the Pacific Crest Trail. It is regarded as extinct and has not been assessed for volcanic hazards." (Wikipedia) The mountain elevation is 7,844 ft. Note: not a pano. :)
13-OCT-2013
Evidence of Forest Fires
In 2011, the high Cascades Fire Complex covered more than 101,000 acres. In 2007 a fire near Black Butte was declared a conflagration by Oregon's Governor. Which recent fire was responsible for what is seen in the image, I am not sure. This view is in the Oregon High Cascades as seen from the Hoodoo Ski Area turnoff, on the Santiam Pass, showing the devastation and regrowth. Mt Washington can be seen in the distance. The photo was made today in late afternoon.
12-OCT-2013
Just Ducky
Today was the day for the annual Rotary Duck Race at Alton Baker Park. Donors are encouraged to buy a little rubber duck, which is then included in a race from the Frohnmayer Pedestrian and Bike Bridge down the Willamette River to DeFazio Pedestrian and Bike Bridge. The winner would get a new Chevrolet pickup. Here you see a real live rubber ducky, well ok, she was just ducky then. The race supports programs that benefit local children.
11-OCT-2013
Turkey In The Straw (Grass)
This wild turkey was moving through the grass in the rurals west of Eugene and probably thought I couldn't see it. You know how dumb turkeys are! In fact, it has been said that to call another person a 'turkey' is one of the highest insults. They just ain't too smart! :)
But I love them anyway, and think they are sort of pretty.
10-OCT-2013
Winging It!
This cormorant in Delta Ponds decided to take to wing, possibly bothered by the shutter in my camera. Why can't I ever get them coming toward me? LOL
09-OCT-2013
The Palefaces
This suspicious looking light-skinned pair was caught sneaking into the lodge at Suttle Lake. The Native American pair were glad to keep an eye on them till they left. :) [Thanks to a kind stranger for clicking the shutter]
Actually, we paid a visit to Suttle Lake and its lodge. It was very, very nice. And there are nice cabins to rent with lots of beautiful scenery to see. It got us to thinking about renting a cabin for a weekend. What a great place to stay! -
http://thelodgeatsuttlelake.com/
NOTE: When I first started working for Lane Transit District in 1971, the former owner of the private company they bought was still there running operations for the District. His name was Elmer Settle. He told me that his family was among the early settlers in our area and that a lake was named after his grandfather. Only trouble was that they mispelled the name on maps and it was never changed. Hence, Settle Lake became Suttle Lake. I have no reason to doubt Elmer, so I believe him.
08-OCT-2013
Look At Those Long Legs!
I happened to catch a fly on a rose at the Owens Rose Gardens and was impressed with its long legs. :) Yes, there are still a few roses and other flowers there, but the recent heavy rains just about did them all in. This rose still shows its colors, which proves that flies appreciate pretty colors as much as we do!
07-OCT-2013
Watching My Buddy GBH Land at Delta Ponds
While visiting Delta Ponds this morning, I got to watch my buddy, GBH (Great Blue Heron), land on a stump in Delta Ponds.
I never seem to tire of my favorite bird, especially when I can get shots like this.
06-OCT-2013
North and Middle Sisters, Oregon Cascades
This is a view of two of the Three Sisters in the Oregon Cascades. The image was made at the top of the Old McKenzie Pass on Hwy 242. I was standing near the Dee Wright Observatory looking out over the lava fields for this view. The Three Sisters are the third, fourth and fifth highest peaks in Oregon. Elevation of the North Sister is 10,085 ft. The Middle Sister is 10,047 ft. The South Sister, unseen in this view, is the tallest at 10,358 ft.
05-OCT-2013
Down The Tracks
Foggy again this morning with a spot of sun. I walked to an industrial area where I could look down the tracks to the east. I liked the way the blue sky showed through the fog and clouds and the sun providing some highlights on the tracks. Industrial areas are not always pretty , but I iiked this scene nevertheless.
V1-100513-107
04-OCT-2013
Red Shouldered Hawk
I shot this image this morning in dark, heavy fog. I did the best I could to bring out the beautiful colors the hawk and still maintain some detail, which required lightening the tone. If I had left the dark foggy appearance as It was the hawk would be too dark. Unfortunately, the fog played havoc with achieving sharpness and brightness in processing. Still, I was thrilled with what I got.
03-OCT-2013
Famished Flock Feeding in Farmer's Field
While walking in Golden Gardens Park, I saw this large flock of geese dining in a farmer's field. I thought it would make a good panorama. (Three shot panorama)
How many are there? I counted 167, give or take a few!
02-OCT-2013
The Beauty of the Forest
"It is not so much for its beauty that the forest makes a claim upon men's hearts, as for that subtle something, that quality of air that emanation from old trees, that so wonderfully changes and renews a weary spirit." (Robert Louis Stevenson )
01-OCT-2013
Chatterbox
The jay bird (this one is a Western Scrub Jay) is known as a chatterbox. Slang(Wikipedia) - "The word "jay" has an archaic meaning in American slang meaning a person who chatters impertinently. Jays are several species of medium-sized, usually colorful and noisy, passerine birds in the crow family Corvidae." Even so, I enjoy them and welcomed this one to our backyard.
The bare stem with a few petals is all that is left of our volunteer Belladonna Lily (Naked Lady).
30-SEP-2013
Dark Morning At The Ponds
It was a dark, wet morning at Delta Ponds. I got caught in a downpour. But I wasn't disappointed just the same. An egret flew in nearby and began to fish. Getting the white bird properly exposed meant darkening the rest of the scene. Plant life along the edge adds a beautiful element to the picture.
29-SEP-2013
Today's Lineup
Early morning light did something magical to these bike racks in front of Autzen Stadium at the University of Oregon Sports Complex.
At least, I think it did! :)
28-SEP-2013
The Sheer Beauty of Flight!
What a delight to see this Great Blue Heron take flight at the pond in Alton Baker Park! I marveled at the sheer beauty of such a big bird, so elegant in flight! I am sure you can understand why it's one of my favorites of all birds.
27-SEP-2013
Fishing The Willamette
While visiting Clearwater Park in Springfield I saw these fishermen in the distance. I made this photo and then tried getting closer, walking along a makeshift path near the river. When it finally came out along the river about where I thought the fishermen would be, they were nowhere in sight. So this one will have to do. There were some fall colors showing. I thought it made a nice scene.
26-SEP-2013
Brice Creek Falls
My friend, John, and I took the Brice Creek Trail to Brice Creek Falls this morning. What a beautiful walk it was!
25-SEP-2013
Vibrant Beauty
I think this is a Dahlia, but I know for sure it is a vibrant beauty!
24-SEP-2013
All Dolled Up And Ready To Go
Old Ford pickup parked in a farmer's orchard along McKenzie View Drive.
23-SEP-2013
My 71 Year Old Sweetheart
I haven't posted a portrait of Carol for a little while. After all these years, she is still my sweet little girl at 71!
22-SEP-2013
Hall House, Fish Lake Historical Site
"Fish Lake Historic Site, also known as the Fish Lake Remount Depot, is located in the heart of the Oregon High Cascades in the Willamette National Forest. Located along the Santiam Trail, since the mid-1800s thousands of travelers including Indian tribes and wagon trains, along with their livestock, pack animals and freight have passed through the site. The seasonal lake and meadow offered them a place of rest and bountiful provisions. Today visitors can explore the legacy of Fish Lake. Enjoy!" -
http://www.fishlakehistoricsite.org/
Fish Lake itself is dried up because of a long, hot summer. But the Fish Lake Historical Site is a very interesting place to see. Check out the website above and the map of the site. It was great to learn it was there. It is some 75-80 miles from Springfield, OR.
21-SEP-2013
Raining At the Rose Garden
Even though it was raining early this morning, I decided to pay a brief visit to the Owens Rose Gardens. There are still flowers in bloom, though some are looking sad now. I did get a good variety of pictures of them. The rain added a bit to their beauty. This Hibiscus was one of them.
20-SEP-2013
Red Crossbill At McKenzie Pass
"A stocky finch of mature coniferous forests, the Red Crossbill is dependent on the seed cones that are its main food. Its peculiar bill allows it access to the seeds, and it will breed whenever it finds areas with an abundance of cones. It may wander widely between years to find a good cone crop." (The Cornell Lab of Orthinology)
19-SEP-2013
Mt Washington Rising Above The Lava Beds
This is a view of Mt Washington from the Dee Wright Observatory at the top of the McKenzie Pass along Hwy 242. Elevation: 7,795' (2,376 m)
"Mount Washington is a nearly extinct volcano in the High Cascades of Oregon, just north of Three Sisters peaks and west of the town of Bend. It's a composite volcano, thick basalt flows at the base and mixed flows and ash making up the top of the pile. Glaciers and the general instability of volcanoes have together eroded it to the state we see today. A small eruption occurred on one flank about 1300 years ago, but it's basically dead." -
http://geology.about.com/library/bl/peaks/blmtwashore.htm
18-SEP-2013
Territorial Conflict
It appears that controversies over territorial rights are not just limited to humans. :)
Great Blue Herons just don't like Great White Egrets infringing on their territory.
A scene from Delta Ponds.
17-SEP-2013
Our Delightful Guest
This is another photo of the volunteer Amaryllis Belladonna (Naked Lady) that came up in our backyard.
Now that the rains have started, it will soon be gone. But we have certainly been delighted with our lovely new friend. :)
http://www.pbase.com/fotabug/image/152154679
16-SEP-2013
Portent of Summer's End?
"Portent - a sign or warning that something, esp. something momentous or calamitous, is likely to happen." (Wikipedia) Our weather is changing as we approach summer's end and this image seems to give evidence of that.
I shot the photo while riding in the back seat of our car with dilated eyes. We were on our way home from Portland where I had my semi-annual checkup on the eye treated with radiation in 2011. Things are looking pretty good.
15-SEP-2013
Pleasant Hill Barn
This barn, bathed in morning light, is located on Parkway Road between Pleasant Hill and Jasper. I thought it made a pretty picture.
14-SEP-2013
The Beauty of Alton Baker Park
"Alton Baker Park, Eugene’s largest developed park, is home to dozens of recreational features and facilities serving the City of Eugene since 1959. The park is made up of two major areas: the more developed West Alton Baker Park, and the 237-acre Whilamut Natural Area." (
https://www.eugene-or.gov/facilities/Facility/Details/29)
This is a scene along Pre Trail.
13-SEP-2013
Pretty In The Ponds
This morning, I was delighted to see this Great White Egret surrounded by the beautiful colors of Delta Ponds, and was able to capture this view.
Now you, too, can see why it delighted me.
12-SEP-2013
New England Aster
"There are more than 600 species of true asters, ranging from 6 inch high alpine kinds forming compact mounds to open branching six foot tall plants. Flowers come in white or shades of blue, red, pink, lavender, or purple, mostly with yellow centers." (Sunset Western Garden Book) This one is a New England Aster.
11-SEP-2013
The Best Apple From Our Tree!
This beauty was the best apple we got off our tree this year. It was a beauty.....and I ate it! First, though, I just had to have a picture of it.
Last year we had the best crop of apples ever off of that tree. This year wasn't as good, but this apple was! And it tasted so good!
10-SEP-2013
Farm, Fog and Sun
The sun came out as fog hung over the landscape, resulting in this pleasing farm scene along Lorane Hwy out of Eugene.
09-SEP-2013
I Talk To The Trees!
Today was not one of my better days. Thinking my gas gauge had quit working and that I had filled my tank, I took a friend for a drive. About 25 miles from home, the Explorer sputtered to a stop. I restarted it and moved on, only to have it quit again. Now I began to doubt myself. Is the gauge really malfunctioning, or could it be possible that the tank is empty? Hmm, guess which was correct? While waiting for our oldest daughter to rescue us, I had time for contemplation and talking to trees.
08-SEP-2013
Red-Osier Dogwood
The correct ID for this bush found in Delta Ponds is Red-Osier Dogwood. It is native to Oregon and the Northwest. I think it is surely beautiful. Thanks for the ID to Carrie and her experts at Eugene Parks. Others also identified it for me. Thanks all!
07-SEP-2013
Spotlight On Beauty!
I can't help going back to a favorite subject, our beautiful hibiscus, now in full bloom. It has four big flowers.
In the lovely evening light the flowers came to life, and the stamen stood out in contrast with the red petals.
06-SEP-2013
Intruder Gone Wild!
The other day I posted a photo of a beautiful, tall trespasser in our backyard.
The beauty is a Naked Lady (Belladonna Lily or Amaryllis), and is now 28 inches tall with five flowers! It is going wild out there!
Of course, we had a rain storm yesterday and that helped.
This photo shows the tall, leafless stem and five flowers showing off before the other plants and one stumped observer.
05-SEP-2013
Oregon Football Performance Center
The new Oregon Football Performance Center is really something to see! Nothing was spared to make it one of the finest of sports athletic centers in the country.
Football pays the bills for college athletic programs and it's become big business these days. Recruiting has become much like professional bidding for the services of athletes the country over. So we are seeing stadiums and facilities being refashioned into large entertainment centers with many amenities. Oregon is working hard to become one of the top football facilities anywhere. This center is certainly impressive! Sports Illustrated recently did an article on this new facility -
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/1101/cfb-oregon-facilities/content.1.html
04-SEP-2013
Guard Duty!
These three barriers and the wall are in front of an office building near Delta Ponds. Perhaps it is only part of the site design.
But those barriers are in front of the main entrance. I guess it is designed to protect the building from wild drivers.
03-SEP-2013
Leaves In A Forest
The leaves are beginning to turn around here, and they are beautiful in backlight. These leaves were in the Eastgate Woodland, Springfield's part of Alton Baker Park.
02-SEP-2013
Lovely Trespasser
Carol had noticed a tall skinny stalk, with no leaves but what looked like a single bud on the end, growing beside an old stump in our backyard. She thought about pulling it up but decided to wait to see what would come of it. Are we ever glad she didn't pull it up! It now has a gorgeous flower (looks like a type of lily) and a couple more buds, but still no leaves! This gorgeous flower has many identities: Belladonna Lily, Naked Ladies, or Belladonna Amaryllis. See --
http://www.americanmeadows.com/catalog/product/view/_ignore_category/1/id/629/s/belladonna-lily/category/96/
01-SEP-2013
Oh No! It's The Wildlife Paparazzi
One of a few shots I got of this osprey who made it clear that it doesn't care for wildlife paparazzi. (Not that I am one!)
"pa·pa·raz·zo (päp-räts)n. pl. pa·pa·raz·zi (-s)
A freelance photographer who doggedly pursues celebrities to take candid pictures for sale to magazines and newspapers.
[After Signor Paparazzo, a character in La Dolce Vita, a film by Federico Fellini.]"
(The Free Dictionary, by Farlex)
31-AUG-2013
The Heart of the Matter!
I find the stamen of the hibiscus flower fascinating. The whole flower is so beautiful.
In this photo I would have liked to have sunlight to strike the stamen, but that wasn't to be. I still liked this darker view.
11-AUG-2013
True Value
I was struck by the balance in this scene, as though the store workers arranged it just for me. Probably not such a great shot, but I like it. :)
29-AUG-2013
Kalapuya Talking Stone
"Eleven stones, engraved with words from the Kalapuya language, lie along paths in the Whilamut Natural Area of Alton Baker Park, a greenway on the north bank of the Willamette River in Eugene and Springfield." - KVAL.COM.
28-AUG-2013
Still Going Strong
The Hydrangeas in our front yard are still going strong. Some of the older flowers are losing color, but new blossoms are coming on too, like this one.
Photo was made with a 'NEW' Nikon D1x (believe it or not!). It had been a store demo and remained in store inventory long after that. It is in brand new condition. The battery charged up just fine and it works like a charm. As far as I can tell it has about 1500 shutter actuations, yet has been cared for over time. As a result, the camera functions as new, not suffering for being in store inventory for some time. I got it for a song. This is exactly like the first Nikon DSLR I owned.
27-AUG-2013
Dutch Bros. Coffee
My favorite latte stands look good in the wee hours of the morning. There are several around town. This one is open 24 hours a day.
26-AUG-2013
Under The Bridge
I found this scene under the bridge in Alton Baker Park attractive, and thought the female Mallard added a nice touch. I waited for her to get to the right spot.
25-AUG-2013
Coopers Hawk?
My friend, John, and I stopped along the road by a farm to try to get some pictures of a lot of machinery in a field. Thank heavens John wanted me to stop there. While we were there a hawk flew in and landed on a machine. I had a camera ready and got a few shots off. This is one of them. I thought it was a red-tailed hawk, but one suggestion is that it is a Coopers Hawk. Looks like that is correct.
22-AUG-2013
Hung Over!
Carol brought in a basket of grapes, the first we got from our vines this year.
I liked how these two hung over the edge. I didn't know grapes got hung over! :)
WHAT THE GRAPE SAID!
Q: What did the grape say when he got stepped on?
A: He let out a little wine.
23-AUG-2013
Lord Baltimore (Hibiscus moscheutos)
This gorgeous Hibiscus was a gift for Carol when she was in the hospital in 2010 with a heart problem. The plant has grown into a beautiful bush and has these huge flowers on it. They are 8bout ten inches across and just now blossomed out. This one is likely a 'Lord Baltimore' hibiscus.
Here is what Better Homes and Gardens had to say about it - "Hibiscus moscheutos 'Lord Baltimore' bears 10-inch-wide, bright cherry-red flowers on 4-foot stems in midsummer to fall." This description fits to a T.
22-AUG-2013
My Greeting At The Latte Stand
I went to my favorite latte stand this morning. It was Disneyland Day at Dutch Bros, and the kids all had costumes on. This young lady asked what I was taking pictures of. I told her 'anything I can find, like this' and raised my camera get a picture of her. I got this big smile.
21-AUG-2013
Carol and Pals
A few months ago, we got a rescue dog, a Poodle we call Molly. She has fitted in well, and Miko, our little Pekingese/Chihuahua, has accepted her.
Here you have Carol and her pals.
20-AUG-2013
Almost Gone!
Our day lilies are disappearing as summer passes. I enjoyed this beauty in nice light, one of the last of them before they are all gone.
19-AUG-2013
A Bite to Eat!
This Great Egret is having a bite to eat at Delta Ponds. Looks like they serve good food! :)
18-AUG-2013
Scene at Foster Lake
Foster Lake is a reservoir created by Foster Dam on the South Santiam River near the city of Sweet Home, Oregon. The reservoir is approximately 5.6 km long. (Wikipedia)
17-AUD-2013
Flowers At The Ponds
These wild flowers in Delta Ponds stood out against the background in a most pleasing way.
16-AUG-2013
Portrait of John (with old Nikon D1)
My friend, John, came over with his Nikon D1 (their original digital SLR. I mounted my 55-300 VR and grabbed a shot of him.
For 2.7 MP, the result is impressive! I think a pretty large print could be made of the original image file.
15-AUG-2013
Taking Flight
What a treat to have some Green Herons nest in Delta Ponds. According to some who visit the ponds daily, the pair had three little ones.
Having their little family here provides some nice photo opportunities. Still, I rarely am able to catch them in flight, so was happy to get this shot this morning.
With the shutter speed I needed, I couldn't stop the aperture down, so DOF is limited.
14-AUG-2013
The Wings of a Dove (pigeon)
While on a bridge over the Willamette River, I saw this dove land on a rock below. I thought the wingspread was beautiful, so I photographed it.
13-AUG-2013
Super Model
This is my kind of 'super model', a green heron posed nicely for me in Delta Ponds. I have seen five of them there this year, more than I ever had before.
12-AUG-2013
Uninvited Guests
This flock of geese stopped by to feed in a farmer's freshly mown field. After a delicious meal, the flock flew off. I also got a shot of them in the air.
11-AUG-2013
Cockpit - 1935 Stinson SR 5-E
I was quite taken with this cockpit. It is that of a 1935 Stinsom SR 5-E, a five seater (pilot, co-pilot, and three passengers), with 300 horsepower, 9 cylinder air cooled Lycoming radial engine. I also have pictures of the whole plane but I really liked this inside view.
10-AUG-2013
Water Balloon Toss
We attended a graduation party for Max, who I recently did a graduation shoot for. Lots of fun things going on - wheelbarrow race, dunk tank (with Max as the one dunked - I got him once.), lots of delicious food and a water balloon toss, the subject of today's photo. I did get a few balloons bursting but this shows more people involved and having fun.
09-AUG-013
Caught in Flight!
I was elated to capture this Barn Swallow in flight at Alton Baker Park. They are so fast I never thought I would be able to get one with its wings outstretched like they are here. I am just not as quick as I used to be! But I am very pleased, even though circumstances made it quite difficult to get a sharp image.
08-AUG-2013
The Simpsons Eating out In Sprngfield
For further proof, the above is a photo of the Simpsons eating out in Springfield, Oregon.
07-AUG-2013
Some Kind of Duck! Which?
As I approached the water's edge at Delta Ponds, this duck went speeding across the water. I mean it was fast! It is really making waves! :)
It looks different from the usual ducks I see there. I am sure it isn't a mallard, its head colors and feathers seem to be different, as does the beak. What is it?
06-AUG-2013
The Egret Has Landed
This is the first Great White Egret I have seen at Delta Ponds since spring. I was able to catch it in nice early morning light.
05-AUG-2013
Radiant Rose
This wild rose (Rosa pratincola) is just lovely in my book. We find them growing in the parks and other wild areas.
It has been chosen as a state flower by some states, such as Iowa. This poem was written about it.
THE ROSE OF IOWA.
[Copyright applied for by S. H. M. Byers.]
Hast seen the wild rose of the West,
The sweetest child of morn ?
Its feet the dewy fields have pressed,
Its breath is on the corn.
The gladsome prairie rolls and sweeps
Like billows to the sea,
While on its breast the red rose keeps
The white rose company.
The wild, wild rose whose fragrance dear
To every breeze is flung,
The same wild rose that blossomed here
When Iowa was young.
O, sons of heroes ever wear
The wild rose on your shield,
No other flower is half so fair
In loves immortal field.
Let others sing of mountain snows,
Or palms beside the sea,
The state whose emblem is the rose
Is fairest far to me.
04-AUG-2013
Sunflowers In Delta Ponds?
Someone had to plant these sunflowers in Delta Ponds. How they got out there I am not sure, not impossible but difficult. They do get one's attention. :)
03-AUG-2013
Great Lakes Biplane Replica
I visited the Stearman Fly-in in Cottage Grove this afternoon and was really impressed with this Great Lakes Biplane Replica built in 1996. The owner flew up from Roseburg and stopped to fuel up. I enjoyed visiting with him briefly. I really love the plane, certainly a favorite of mine.
The Waco Great Lakes biplane was the model Tex Rankin, Carol's great-uncle and world champion stunt pilot, flew for many of his stunts. What a plane!
02-AUG-2013
Spotlight On Art
On my early morning drive this morning, I saw this window display at an art gallery in downtown Eugene.
I liked how the light spotlighted the center art piece. It was my favorite image from the dark time excursion.
01-AUG-2013
Gorgeous Green Heron
The green heron is one of only two types of herons we see here in Oregon. The green heron is more rarely seen. I see the Great Blue Heron often as they pretty much stay year round and have nesting trees here. We have seen the Green Heron much less. Over the last few years I have seen only a few. This year, however, I saw as many as five on one recent day. I believe they have a nest in Delta Ponds. Some of those I saw seemed pretty small. This green heron was only about 50-60 feet away from me, as I stood on the walkway through one of the Delta Ponds.
31-JUL-2013
Aerobatic Osprey
I came across a new osprey nest on the University of Oregon practice field. The University removed another nest that was on top of a light in the middle of the field. This one is on the edge and likely less of a problem to them So it remains and is used by a pair of osprey. When I came along, the osprey apparently didn't like me being there, across ths street from the nest. It flew overhead protesting. I shot some pictures and then moved on so as not to disturb it needlessly.
30-JUL-2013
Fight Or Flight!
The Great White Egrets are appearing at Delta Ponds again.
For some reason, the Great Blue Herons don't like them around. I have seen them chase egrets away.
Evidently, this egret thinks it is better to take flight than stay and face the heron.
29-JUL-2013
Great White Egret, Great Fisher!
Haven't seen a Great White Egret since spring. Looks like they might be coming back. Spotted this one fishing successfully across the pond At Delta Ponds. I was able to spotlight the egret in the sun while the shore was in the shade. It was a very difficult exposure because to the sunlit white of the egret's feathers.
28-JUL-2013
Ring Around The Duckling
What do you think? Am I right? Hope someone can help out with the ID.
Photo made at Alton Baker Park.
27-JUL-2013
Ring-tailed Bandido
A raccoon at home in Delta Ponds. "Two of the raccoon's most distinctive features are its extremely dexterous front paws and its facial mask, which are themes in the mythology of several Native American tribes. Raccoons are noted for their intelligence, with studies showing that they are able to remember the solution to tasks for up to three years." - Wikipedia
26-JUL-2013
Our Day at the Beach
My friend, John, and I went to the Oregon Coast yesterday to get away from the valley heat. It got to 96 here at home. On the Coast, it was 65, 31 degrees cooler. After a cloudy start the sun soon came out and it was beautiful. We spent time in Old Town Florence and had fun shooting pictures there. After lunch we went to the beach at Driftwood Shores, where we were greeted with very cool weather and fog. We had to wear wind breakers. The wind was very strong, blowing sand in our faces. We had to protect our cameras. Needless to say, we didn't stay there long! This is a beach scene I got while there.
25-JUL-2013
Siuslaw River Bridge
"The Siuslaw River Bridge is a bascule bridge that spans the Siuslaw River on U.S. Route 101 in Florence, Oregon. It was designed by Conde McCullough, built by the Mercer-Fraser Company of Eureka, California, and funded by the Federal Emergency Administration of Public Works (later renamed the Public Works Administration). It opened in 1936." -Wikipedia
24-JUL-2013
Springfield Sunrise
If you get up early you won't miss out on some beautiful sunrises! I have seen some amazing views. This is one of them.
The image was made on top of Kelly Butte looking east over Springfield, OR
23-JUL-2013
Shadows in the Garden
I liked how this beautiful flower (I love pink and lavender) stood out against shadows in the garden, not my garden but one I appreciated.
22-JUL-2013
Rowing On Dexter Lake
Dexter Lake is the practice site for the University of Oregon rowing team. I watched today as four boats were out on the lake. After observing the action for a while, I concluded these were not advanced rowers. It appeared that they were learning the skills needed. I could hear those who were in motorboats accompanying them give admonition. They wee likely instructors. The rowers never did move very fast. When I have watched the UofO rowing team practice, I saw them move aoss the water quite fast.
21-JUL-2013
Flying Low Over Delta Ponds
I have seen a green heron in the area lately, perhaps two. I saw one at Alton Baker Park and one at Delta Ponds. But they are not far apart, so it could be the same heron in both places. Anyway, I was fortunate to capture it in flight, something I have found hard to do.
20-JUL-2013
A Beautiful Sunbather!
This beautiful day lily was refreshed by the morning sun and water from our sprinkler. The sight refreshed me too.
19-JUL-2013
It's All About The Light!
One of my favorite sayings about photography is, "It's all about the light!"
After all, that's what the name 'photography' refers to, 'drawing or painting with light.'
It's what comes to mind whenever I find the light just right, as in this scene.
It's a wildflower at Delta Ponds. I just can't help loving it!
18-JUL-2013
Bald Eagle at Delta Ponds
I visited Delta Ponds for a walk this morning and there just waiting for me in a tall tree across the pond was this beautiful bald eagle.
The golden morning light added to the color.
17-JUL-2013
The Blackberries Are Ripening
Unfortunately, we must keep fighting the blackberry vines that come over the fence from the neighbor's yard. Some of the vines are laden with blackberries.
I am letting those ripen and we will pick them before getting rid of the vines. They are getting ripe.
16-JUL-2013
Sunrise Surprise
In the midst of our hot weather, we were greeted by some clouds in this morning's sky, resulting in this sunrise surprise. We even got a few drops of rain, but that's all!
15-JUL-2013
Ghosts in the graveyard
Genus Yucca - known in the Midwest United States as "ghosts in the graveyard".
It is commonly found growing in rural graveyards and when in bloom the flowers appear as floating apparitions.
14-JUL-2013
Amazing Design
This gorgeous flower shows such amazing design, one of the wonders of creation! It sure caught my eye!
How puny we mere mortals be! Could we ever design something so lovely?
13-JUL-2013
Color Coordinated
I saw this bicycle on my latte run this morning. Looks like it belongs to an enthusiastic Wendy's employee!
And look at the file name for this image - V1-071313-013
12-JUL-2013
Retired Rascals - Eleven Years
My work buddy, Hank, and I decided we would retire the same day. That was 11 years ago today. Ever since then we have met for breakfast on each anniversary of our retirement. So here we are, enjoying our eleventh! anniversary breakfast at Elmers. As usual, we had a great time.
We had the sweetest waitress, Erin, who made the meal a fun experience. She shot the picture for me. Thanks, Erin.
11-JUL-2013
Do Western Scrub Jays Have Funerals?
The Western Scrub Jay is a very interesting bird. They live in breeding pairs and are not particularly social. They are territorial and not friendly with other scrub-jays. Yet, they are known to call for other Jays to come and screech over a dead Scrub Jay. An experiment was done at University of California at Davis that appears to indicate that they do.
10-JUL-2013
Against The Current
Sometimes we all face an uphill battle, going against the current, like this fish trying to get upstream below Fern Ridge Dam.
I was told this is a Carp. It was photographed in morning golden light.
.
09-JUL-2013
Something To Crow About!
I didn't realize that crows had such a pretty wingspan until I got this shot of one backlighted. The crow is really an impressive bird, smart too!
08-JUL-2013
Century Farm Barn
This interesting barn was on an Oregon Century Farm, designation given to farms that have stayed within a family for over 100 years. I thought the barn was somewhat unique. Whether it is 100 years old or not, I don't know. But it does look like it could be pretty old, for Oregon anyway.
Information I was provided - This is the Rice farm, which was established in 1853. The barn was built in 1952 and rebuilt in 1999.
07-JUL-2013
Hair Continental
This shop was originally opened by a friend of mine, who later sold it to the present owner. My friend grew up on a farm in Canada, raised by Russian immigrant parents. He married the sweetest little Southern Belle from Louisiana, and they were such a cute couple. Both are gone now. But I think of him whenever I pass by his old barber shop.
06-JUL-2013
Makayla
I did a shoot with our 18 year old granddaughter, Mikayla, for some graduation pictures. This is an example of the results.
I know I am prejudiced, but I still think she is beautiful!
05-JUL-2013
In Orbit
The petals on this flower look for all the world like they are orbiting around the center. It is quite a beautiful flower, growing wild in Delta Ponds. I have no idea what it is!
04-JUL-2013
Airborne!
It was a great morning at Fern Ridge Lake. Boats pulling water-skiers were out and about.
I caught this wake boarder as he became airborne and let loose of the tow rope. He shows good form!
I think he did the jump for my benefit!
03-JUL-2013
Not A Yellow Rubber Ducky
I saw a Mama Mallard with her cute little ducklings at Alton Baker Park. One of them was different from the rest. it was all yellow, the cutest little thing!
02-JUL-2013
Avoiding A Mid-Air Collision
The birds seem to like this particular limb of an old dead tree in Alton Baker Park. I believe these are Starlings, invasive birds to this area.
Here one is landing while the other takes off. It appears that the one in the control tower is sleeping, so they avoided a mid-air collision themselves. :)
01-JUL-2013
Fire In The Sky!
This morning's sunrise from Kelly Butte. The scene was amazing, as if caused by a fire somewhere. But there is no forest fire, except one many miles to the east, too far away to affect our sky. I watched it for a while, a real treat.
30-JUN-2013
Our Beautiful Hydrangea
[As for the colors, Carol says she put coffee grounds around the base of the hydrangea, quite a bit of it.]
"Hydrangea is a genus of 70-75 species of flowering plants native to southern and eastern Asia and the Americas.
By far the greatest species diversity is in eastern Asia, notably China, Japan, and Korea." - (from Wikipedia)
29-JUN-2013
I Heard a Red Winged Blackbird sing, then I saw him, a most beautiful thing!
The Red-Winged Blackbird has often been extolled in words, pictures and song, including this one by Kathy Mattea -
http://tinyurl.com/nrgfd99
Also enjoy these lyrics by David Francey
RED WINGED BLACKBIRD
Thought I heard a red winged blackbird,
Red winged blackbird down my road,
Thought I heard a red winged blackbird,
Red winged blackbird down my road.
He'll be there beside the river,
When Winter finally breaks its bones,
He'll be king among the rushes,
He'll be master of his home.
Thought I heard a red winged blackbird,
Red winged blackbird down my road.
Thought I heard a red winged blackbird,
Red winged blackbird down my road.
Safe as Moses in the rushes,
Builds his home on the river wide,
Every time I hear him singing,
Makes me feel like Spring inside.
Thought I heard a red winged blackbird,
Red winged blackbird down my road.
Thought I heard a red winged blackbird,
Red winged black bird down my road.
He'll be in there singing his heart out,
He'll be telling me stories too,
Of where he went to winter last year,
Of how he's going back there too.
Thought I heard a red winged blackbird,
Red winged blackbird down my road,
Thought I heard a red winged blackbird,
Red winged blackbird down my road.
Words and Music: ©David Francey (1989)
28-JUN-2013
Growing Wild in Delta Ponds
This beautiful flower was growing along the path in Delta Ponds.
I don't know what it is. but thought I would make an image of it to share, and also to see if someone can identify it for me. Thanks.
27JUN-2013
I Just Can't Do a Thing With My Hair!
It has been pretty wet here (drying out now). So the herons and other birds have shown the effects. This Great Blue Heron in Alton Baker Park definitely has that wet look.
26-JUN-2013
Little Green Heron Sitting in a Tree, What a Very Fine Fellow Is He!
I happened on this green heron sitting in a tree near The Science Factory, in Alton Baker Park. I got a couple shots of him when a lady with some small children came walking by. I paused to tell them about the heron, and when they stopped he flew away. :(
Should I have not told them? Well, I would have got more pictures, but they wouldn't have seen it either.
25-JUN-2013
Northwest Logging in The Old Days
Here is a glimpse of what logging looked like in the past. The work was hard, for man and beast, but perhaps was gentler on the earth.
This beautiful mural is located on a building in downtown Springfield.
24-JUN-2013
Humungus Hydrangea
All of a sudden the hydrangeas in our front yard have become absolutely huge! These two growing side by side are about 8-10 inches across, no kidding! They have been growing at a normal pace but a week of sunshine followed by a week of rain seemed to be the tonic that made them get so large. They are gorgeous and are becoming different colors. There are several blooms. I think the bush will be full of them.
23-JUN-2013
Why We Didn't See Super Moon
I was looking forward to seeing 'super moon' but this is the reason why we didn't.
22-JUN-2013
Delta Ponds Pedestrian Bridge
On a cloudy morning, a bit of sunlight shone on the Delta Ponds Pedestrian Bridge. I thought it made it stand out nicely against the dark clouds.
21-JUN-2013
Summer Sunset
A sunset for the first day of summer
20-JUN-2013
Pretty little Flower (whatever it is!)
I saw this wild flower at Delta Ponds and don't know what it is.
19-JUN-2013
A Big Hand For The Little Lady
I was able to corner Carol long enough to get a picture or two. She has been working too hard this week. So here's a big hand for the little lady. I thought it turned out well.
18-JUN-2013
Looking to the Future!
Our granddaughter, Mikayla, after her graduation in Milwaukie, Oregon. It was a nice program. Grammy Carol couldn't go, so we had to get some pictures for her.
17-JUN-2013
On The Mend
This is how kids mend these days. Our youngest grandson, Jayden, broke his lower arm in two places last Wednesday on the last day of school.
Kids heal quickly, especially if they can do it the modern way, with an iPad and earphones.
16-JUN-2013
Osprey Overhead
This osprey flew directly overhead, so I was shooting almost straight up. Managed to hold the camera steady enough to get a good shot. In the original image, the bird's eye is sharp!
15-JUN-2013
Hydrant in Its Bed of "Hydrantias"! :)
This hydrant looks a bit spoiled to me, having such a beautiful bed to sleep in. A friend gave me the idea that the flowers are 'hydrantias'. LOL
14-JUN-2013
Regal Beauty
This heron struck such a beautiful pose, seen here along the Alton Baker Park canal.
13-JUN-2013
Double Vision
On the way to Bend I stopped at Sahalie Falls. It rained in the Cascades both directions as I went over and back. Thus this image was shot in the rain. It's a favorite of mine. I got two pictures of the falls in one.
12-JUN-2013
You're The Berries
11-JUN-2013
Some Kinda (Wood) Duck
I am not sure what variety of duck this is. It seems to have the hair in back of its head, something like some types of female merganser. but has a body more like a mallard. There's nothing like it in my Oregon bird book. Anyone know what it is?
NOTE: I am grateful for the ID! It's a female wood duck. I would probably not have figured that one out.
10-JUN-2013
Modern Day Beaver
One can see there was good reason for cutting down this tree. It would have come done by itself before long.
09-JUN-2013
The Catch
When you visit Alton Baker Park you will see people fishing along the canal. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife plants rainbow trout there from time to time. That's when the fishing is really good! Here I caught the catch of one of the fishermen.
08-JUN-2013
"To Paint a Rose"
"There is nothing more difficult for a truly creative painter than to paint a rose,
because before he can do so he has first to forget all the roses that were ever painted."
~ Henri Matisse
The lovely rose, beautifully portrayed by these seen at Owens Rose Garden, has prompted so many words. But words alone can not do the rose justice and neither can a picture!. Only when we are present to let our senses take in the vision and the smell of the sweet rose can we truly experience it fully. I think this is what Matisse was expressing! And some definitely are influenced by the work of others. No painting can show the rose in all its glory, and neither can a photo. One has to see the original. I hope only that this image will add to your appreciation for this marvelous gift from God.
07-JUN-2013
Green Heron
Around here, we see Great Blue Herons. They even have a nesting tree at Alton Baker Park. But when it comes to Green Herons, I have seen few of them. This is one I saw at Delta ponds. They seem much smaller than the Great Blue.
06-JUN-2013
Rose in Owens Rose Garden
The Owens Rose Garden in Eugene is in full bloom! The flowers on display are breathtaking. This shot is of a rose in sunlight surrounded by shade. I loved the dramatic lighting. I hope to post a gallery of flower images from Owens Rose Garden soon.
05-JUN-2013
Boyhood Dreams
Some time ago I thought about my childhood and how I loved to read. I would get lost in a book, absorbed in the story. So I wrote a poem about the joy I got from reading books. It's called "Boyhood Dreams". Hope you enjoy it.
BOYHOOD DREAMS
by Vern Rogers
I wanted to be a cowboy when I was very small,
Sitting on a saddle, riding straight and tall.
I wanted to be a captain of a great big ship,
Setting sail for some exotic land on a lengthy trip.
I wanted to be a pilot flying in a plane,
To a far distant land with a strange sounding name.
I wanted to be a pitcher on a big league baseball squad,
winning yet another game for the hometown fans to applaud.
I wanted to be a singer with a voice both rich and clear,
Singing songs in such a way that others want to hear.
There were so many things I desired to do when I was very young,
And as I sit here, now grown old, they're still upon my tongue.
But I'm content, my life's been full. Life's been good to me,
No matter what I think about, there's nothing left to be.
I've done so many things and that is why I fear,
That others will soon come to doubt my illustrious career.
There's not a thing I haven't done, no matter where one looks,
And that's no boast you see, I've done them all by reading books.
04-JUN-2013
Up Close and Personal
I heard this bird singing at Delta Ponds and kept looking for it. All of a sudden there it was, only perhaps 10 feet from me.
Needless to say, I was more than happy to photograph its portrait. The photograph is straight out of the camera and not cropped!
I am not sure what bird it is, though it seems to look similar to the Fox Sparrow. What is it?
03-JUN-2013
Natural Beauty
A lovely azalea blossom in Hendricks Park.
02-JUN-2013
Lattice and Wild Rose
We have this lattice in the backyard that has a wild rose bush growing on it. I think it makes a beautiful picture.
01-JUN-2013
Running on the Pre Trail
"The Steve Prefontaine Memorial Jogging trail is located in Alton Baker Park, and is accessible from parking lots at three trailhead entrances at each of the three main loops. There are two footbridges, providing access from the University of Oregon campus, located just across the Willamette River. From campus, the Center Loop can be accessed via the Autzen Footbridge (south of Autzen Stadium, half a block north of Franklin and Agate Streets), and to the southeastern Big Loop via the Knickerbocker Footbridge (near Franklin and Riverview Streets)."
"Steve Prefontaine, or "Pre," was impressed with the style and terrain of European cross country running courses while competing overseas. Upon return from Europe, he suggested to local officials about building a running trail through Eugene's Alton Baker Park. Lane County worked with the Oregon Track Club and University of Oregon track coach Bill Bowerman to design and build Pre's Trail. Within four months of Pre's death in an auto accident in 1975, the new trail served as venue to a memorial race of approximately five hundred participants in his honor." (Source - Wikipedia)
31-MAY-2013
In The Spotlight
This Great Blue Heron In Alton Baker Park just tried and failed to catch a fish. We have to admit that it sure stirred up the waters! And the lighting was perfect, highlighting the spot where it was located, while the background was in the shade.
30-MAY-2013
Fishing Buddies
It may look like they are fishing buddies, but the fact of the matter is that the heron was there to steal a fish or two. :)
Rainbow trout were planted in Alton Baker Park today and so the fishermen and herons were there to fish.
29-MAY-2013
Miss Molly
Meet Molly, Carol's new buddy, a poodle to replace Rosie, who she misses very much. Molly is a rescue dog and a real sweetie.
28-MAY-2013
Turkey Vulture On High
A couple turkey vultures flew overhead while I was out on a photo walk. I don't think they were looking for me!
The bright clouds reflecting light through the lighter part of the wings, which resulted in nice wing detail. I think they are beautiful, except for that head. :)
27-MAY-2013
Liftoff From a Log
I saw this Great Blue Heron on a log at the pond In Alton Baker Park and figured it would take off sooner or later. So I waited and was rewarded with this photo. Just no doubting my love for herons. :)
26-MAY-2013
Not A Snake In The Grass!
This Red-shafted Northern Flicker in Alton Baker Park was so busy looking for food in the grass that it didn't even notice me. I watched it for a bit and got a few photos.
25-MAY-2013
The Graduate - Alex
Meet Alex, who graduates from the University of Oregon School of Journalism next month.
He already has a position as Sports Editor for the Eugene Daily News website.
Busy guy!
24-MAY-2013
The Wild Rose - In Memory of My Dear Mother
There are wild roses blooming on Skinner Butte and I couldn't resist their intoxicating beauty. This image shows why!
In memory of my mother, who was born on this date in 1902! Found this delightful poem on the Net:
My Wild Rose.
I had a garden, which I kept With busy hands and tender care;
And once, while carelessly I slept, Fanned softly by the drowsy air,
A wild rose to my garden crept, And blossomed there.
O, sweet surprise. It seemed to me, Some fair hand, my heart to bless,
Had brought it there, from wood or lee. It came unsought 'twas loved no less;
I stooped and touched it tenderly, With soft caress.
I grew to love it passing well; While strange exotics, rich and rare,
With heart of gold and crimson bell, Paid grudgingly for constant care,
My wild rose, as in a woodland dell, Bloomed fresh and fair.
I watered not, I did not prune, I tied it not with cord or thong;
Yet, morn by morn and noon by noon, Through days of summer, hot and long,
And underneath the midnight moon, From branches strong
Hung clustered blossoms sweet and red; And day by day and week by week,
I trod the path which toward it lead. Whate'er my mood. I did not speak,
But close against bowed my head And pressed my cheek.
I think of it with sudden thrill. Now wide lands lie, deep water flows,
Smiles many a vale, looms many a hill Between me and the garden-close;
Yet fondly I remember still My sweet wild rose.
by Ellen P. Allerton.
----------------
23-MAY-2013
Big Baby!
The baby bald eagle in the nest on Skinner Butte is now getting close to full size. It has feathers instead of fuzz and is looking very healthy. There is only one baby this year. The last few years there were two little ones. The nest is about the length of a football field from the viewing spot. It wasn't very considerate of the eagles to build their nest so far from where we can go. LOL
22-MAY-2013
In A Glass Bubble
Here is one way to make a self portrait! :)
21-MAY-2013
Phooey on the scenery! Take my picture!
This beautiful Poodle seemed to thrive on my attention while its master enjoyed the scenery at Alton Baker Park.
Certainly was a very friendly dog!
20-MAY-2013
Obliging Osprey
While visiting Alton Baker Park, I watched this osprey pair in the tree above their nest for a while and was rewarded with this shot as one flew off, probably going grocery shopping.
19-MAY-2013
Bridge In Paradise
This bridge in Alton Baker Park goes to Hays Tree Garden and Cuthbert Amphitheatre. It is a beautiful setting!
It just might help you to see why I love Alton Baker Park.
18-MAY-2013
Fabulous Fuchsia
We received a lovely fuchsia plant for an anniversary gift. To me, it is one of the most beautiful of flowers. I hope this image does it justice. Does anyone know if they attract hummingbirds?
17-MAY-2013
Bodacious Redwing Blackbird
This beautiful Redwing Blackbird, in Alton Baker Park, was on the top of a post and was quite active, dancing around. It stayed there long enough for me to get some photos. I should have shot a video.
16-May-2013
Cottage Grove Mural
This is one of several murals around Cottage Grove, OR. It is in a little park like area in the center of town. I love Cottage Grove, a pretty little town of about 9700 population. There's lots to see! For information about Opel Whitely, the woman in the center of the mural, see:
http://www.cottagegrove.net/history/whiteley/
15-MAY-2013
Skimming The Surface!
This Great Blue Heron landed not far from me and then flew to the other side of the stream. Here it is skimming the water just before landing.
14-MAY-2013
Carol's Three Pets
For today another photo from yesterday. Carol decided to take a picture of her three pets. Here they are for all to see!
The newest addition is the little white poodle, Molly. Carol missed Rosie so much, our toy poodle that died in 2011, after being with us for 15 years. Our granddaughter, who volunteers at Green Hill Animal Shelter, told her about a poodle that came in. What am I going to do about that girl? LOL Now, instead of playing second fiddle, I play third. You can see from my expression where I stand. :) But, I think Molly loves me! Just look at how she is looking at me!
Yes, I have to admit I have been spoiled for 52 years. We had a great time yesterday and created lots of nice memories.
13-MAY-2013
Carol - Anniversay Day
Carol and I went for a nice drive today on our 52nd anniversary. Though the day started out with rain, the afternoon was very nice with periods of sunshine.
We weren't able to go to the Coast, but enjoyed exploring Cottage Grove and had lunch there.
12-MAY-2013
The Weather, It's a'Changing!
We have enjoyed a period of warm, sunny days, unusual for us this time of year. But today the weather is changing. The clouds began to build and the sunshine turned to gray. This will give you an idea of the approaching rainy day(s). Tomorrow is our 52nd anniversary and it will rain. But I don't care, we need it.
11-MAY-2013
Backlit and Beautiful
I saw this wildflower (lupine) along the path at Alton Baker Park. It was so beautifully backlit I couldn't resist shooting it.
10-MAY-2013
Say Hello to Max!
A young friend of mine will soon be graduating from high school. He wanted me to shoot his graduation picture. People pictures, and particularly those associated with special events like weddings or graduation make me anxious. I am always concerned about getting satisfactory results. I don't yet know about the results of our shoot today. I am still going through the pictures. But I thought I would post one that I processed for today's PAD.
09-MAY-2013
Splendid Spotted Towhee
I saw this little beauty at Hendricks Park, in Eugene.
08-MAY-2013
Memories Are Made of This! (February 1969 Revisited)
For those who experienced a lot of snow this year here is a photo I made in February 1969. We had a snow storm that lasted off and on for two weeks. It set an all-time record for this area, nothing like it before or since. We ended up with four feet of snow on the ground. It brought the city to a standstill. I couldn't get my cars out for a week!
In this photo, we are walking out the lane, heading for a store to get some needed food and milk. This is Carol with Angie behind. Angie was 7 at the time. Our middle daughter, Syndee, then 4, was too small to walk. The snow over her head. So I was carrying her piggyback. I shot the picture with a Pentax SLR film camera. A copy of the print was shot with a D50 to save a copy. The print is showing its age.
07-MAY-2013
Bold Against The Sky
This beautiful Masquerade Rose at the top of the rose bush stood out against the sky.
I noticed it as I looked outside this morning, so naturally had to go out and shoot it.
06-MAY-2013
Spread Your Wings!
This osprey (fish eagle) sat on a limb about its nest in Alton Baker Park, while I waited and waited for it to do something! Finally it spread its wings without taking off. I thought this was a nice pose. Shot made handheld. I am so impressed with Nikon's V1.
05-MAY-2013
BEE..UTIFUL (Orange Rumped Bumble Bee)
This little bee was very busy visiting the rhododendron blossoms. It sure was a brightly colored little thing. I learned it is an Orange Rumped Bumble Bee (thanks Laura)
It was difficult to keep focused on it as it flew from flower to flower, so the camera was used handheld to try to keep up with its constant movement.
04-MAY-2013
Visitors to Millrace Park
Carol was able to go out with me for a little while for a visit to Millrace Park. This is a shot of her and Miko under the arbor at the park.
It's beautiful here today. Should reach 80 degrees.
03-MAY-2013
Dogwood Blossoms
I thought the tree arranged these blossoms nicely. Thanks, Robert, for the ID.
02-MAY-2013
Mama Bald Eagle Nest Sitting
I checked on Mama Bald Eagle on Skinner Butte this morning. She was sitting on the nest, while the chick slept. The grayish lump on her left is the baby. It popped up a few times but neither cooperated by assuming a nice pose for me. Most of the time the mama was sitting with her back to me and looking out over the Willamette River. Lighting was also a problem, harsh contrasts between sunlit areas and shade. In this image, at least the lighting was manageable. I thought it shows the beauty of the bald eagle.
01-MAY-2013
Here's My Heart, Please Don't Break It!
She never did!
These heart shaped flowers (Bleeding Hearts), found in Hendricks Park, are just beautiful!
I couldn't resist taking time for a photo of them.
30-APR-2013
Field of Camas Flowers
Because of cloudy conditions, I tried different points of view in capturing this Camas field.
Hopefully, I will be going back later in the week. We expect better weather.
29-APR-2013
Camas Flower and Bee
I was invited to visit a friend's home to see the gorgeous field of Camas on in front of the house.
I just couldn't resist first posting this shot of the Camas flower and a bee. I will post a photo of the field soon.
22-APR-2013
Crane Fly in Magnolia Blossom
I saw this crane fly in the blossom of a tiny magnolia tree, I believe it was. Correct? I thought it made a neat photo.
Numerous common names have been applied to the crane fly, including mosquito eater and daddy longlegs. Evidently, they are called different things in different regions. The real name is 'crane fly'. They don't really eat mosquitos, unfortunately. :)
27-APR-2013
Nesting Osprey
A pair of osprey have taken over an abandoned heron nesting tree in Alton Baker Park and set up housekeeping. Here one of them is just landing in the nest.
26-APR-2013
Angie and Cloud
Carol and I visited the stables with our oldest daughter, Angie, today and had a good time. Carol just had to see Cloud, her Arabian/Appaloosa gelding.
I loved this photo I shot of Angie with Cloud in the meadow back of the stables.
25-APR-2013
Looking Down on Creation
The bald eagle's nest is a lofty throne from which it has a spectacular view. If I were an eagle I would feel I was 'on top of the world'. Listen to the Carpenters as they sing the song -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5NfbrMy4Po
24-APR-2013
Osprey in a Tree
This beautiful osprey (fish eagle) was sitting on a branch high in a tree at Alton Baker park, enjoying a beautiful sunny day.
It is supposed to get to 70 deg. F today! A perfect day in Oregon!
23-APR-2013
Outside The Box
Something a bit different from me, outside the box so to speak. While waiting at the doctor's office for my wife, I saw this toy that was there for the children to play with.
I played with it in a different way, with my camera. :)
22-APR-2013
Bald Eagle and Baby
There are babies in the eagle's nest on Skinner Butte. The tree is so far out from where it can be sighted that one needs a very long lens to reach. I have an offer to use a 1000mm lens and have to get on the ball about using it. I got this with a Nikon D300 with 80-400 VR plus 1.4x Kenko converter. I forgot the tripod mount for the lens and so had to mount the camera on the tripod. This made for a less stable arrangement. I was fortunate to get a shot this good, and it is not all that great.
21-APR-2013
Lovely Yellow Blossom
This lovely yellow azalea blossom is in Hendricks Park's rhododendron garden. The lighting was wonderful!
20-APR-2013
Earth Day Dancing
I heard music across the river from Alton Baker Park and decided to check it out. I learned that there was an Earth Day celebration going on at Riverfront Plaza. Here we can see some moving with the music.
19-APR-2013
Blending In!
This is a beautiful red-tailed hawk. It flew right overhead when I was driving down off Skinner Butte, and landed in a nearby tree. I jumped out of the car to try to get some shots. Because of my vision problems, I had trouble seeing it since it blended in with the tree so well. But I managed to get a half dozen pictures before it flew away. This is one of them. Not too bad for a Coolpix P510!
18-APR-2013
A Nikon Cannon
I was excited to meet up with a fellow photographer at Hendricks Park, Eugene's oldest. We had a nice conversation about photography and equipment. He is a Nikon user also and here was shooting with an older Nikkor 500mm manual focus AIS lens. At this spot he was shooting fern fronds and getting great separation by using a long telephoto.
I learned that he is a professional photographer whose main interests are landscape, bird and botanical photography. If you would like to see his website and some of his work, this is the link -
http://www.headwatersphoto.com Take a look, I think he is very good!
17-APR-2013
Afloat in a Sea of Black
Trumpet Daffodil shot against a shaded background.
16-APR-2013
Love Blooms in Alton Baker Park
A beautiful couple, Northern Flicker male and female, on the sidewalk in Alton Baker Park. The Northern Flicker is a member of the woodpecker family.
15-APR-2013
Outdoor Dining On A Rainy Morning
This mural is in downtown Springfield, across from the museum and city hall. I shot the picture early this morning, in the rain.
14-APR-2013
Oregon-Grape (Mahonia aquifolium)
Oregon-Grape is the State Flower for Oregon. When the berries turn purple they do look like grapes. This photo I shot in Alton Baker Park in nice light. Wikipedia has information about the plant -
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahonia_aquifolium Note the reference to the similarity of the leaves to that of holly.
The root of the plant has some medicinal value. It makes a bitter herb that is effective in treating digestive problems.
13-APR-2013
Spring Shows Up in Owens Rose Garden
Early flowers and trees are blooming in Owens Rose Garden. In late spring the roses will begin to appear and I will try to remember to visit there again.
12-APR-2013
Into The Fog
Our day started out with frost and fog. It is now cloudy with rain and wind. Here is a morning view of the pond below Fern Ridge Dam and Clear Lake Road that disappears into the fog.
11-APR-2013
Alton Baker Park Blossoms Forth
The trees in Alton Baker Park are in bloom. But the blossoms won't last long. The rain will knock them off. But at least they are gorgeous right now.
10-APR-2013
A Springtime Song
This song sparrow was singing up a storm at Delta Ponds
09-APR-2013
Neighborhood Backyard
I was photographing some pretty flowers in a nearby front yard when a nice lady came walking up the street. She asked if I would like to see the backyard. By coincidence, I stopped to take pictures just as the owner came home. I accepted the invitation and made this photo of her beautiful backyard, among other images. I was told I could come by and shoot pictures in the yard anytime. While back there I also met her husband, who worked as a photographer for several years for a local studio. It was a fun experience.
08-APR-2013
Industrial
The Kingsford Briquet Plant in Springfield, Oregon. It was raining when I went out and got this picture. Now that I am home there is blue sky as I look out the window.
Guess I was out too early. Oh well, I was up early anyway.
07-APR-2013
The North Sister, Oregon Cascades
06-APR-2013
Didn't Scare Me!
I found this 'artpiece' on the University of Oregon campus on today's early morning's walk. It was standing next to the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art. It can't be 'Bigfoot', can it?
05-APR-2013
Faded Glory
Unfortunately, this Camellia was kissed by a recent frost. But it is still beautiful, even if a bit faded.
04-APR-2013
Osprey and Cargo
This osprey is heading back to its nest at Delta Ponds with building material.
As I stood looking up at the nest I could just barely see another osprey.
03-APR-2013
Mount Washington
This is Mount Washington in the Oregon Cascades. In the foreground you will notice the trees showing evidence of a forest fire in recent years.
02-APR-2013
April Sunset
It's hard to get a good image of a sunset unless I drive a distance from the house. But I managed to get this shot from our backyard.
01-APR-2013
Evening in the High Cascades
The late sun casts some beautiful light in the mountains. Suttle Lake lies below in the foreground.
I just love being in the mountains at any time of day.
(The time in the EXIF file is not correct.)
31-MAR-2013
The Three Sisters
Sunday was a warm sunny day in Central Oregon. This is a view of The Three Sisters, mountains in the Oregon Cascades, as seen from the town of Sisters.
30-MAR-2013
Springtime at Home
With sunshine and warm days, we are enjoying real spring weather here in Oregon. I thought this shot expresses it well.
29-MAR-2013
Bald Eagle Nest Sitting
The bald eagle pair again has their nest near the top of Skinner Butte. There must be eggs because the eagle is sitting patiently in the nest, which by the way is huge. It may not look so big here because it is at such a distance from where we can view it. It took long lens to get out there and the result was still cropped. At least, I was able to get a picture.
28-MAR-2013
Doorway to Paradise
What do you think of my doorway to Paradise? Can you tell what it is? I imagined the possibilities in this scene when I first saw it, and hope I conveyed the idea effectively.
What you see is a pop machine with a beautiful scene on the front. It stands along the wall of the arena at the stables where our daughter boards her horses.
To me, it looks like a doorway or opening in the wall so that the scene appears to be beyond it.
27-MAR-2013
Makayla and Sara
I went to the stables with our oldest daughter, Angie, and some of our grandkids.
This is her daughter, Makayla, with Angie's horse, Sara. They are both camera shy. :)
26-MAR-2013
Oak Tree And Sunrise
Couldn't resist this view of the sunrise from the top of Skinner Butte.
The silhouette of the oak tree I found very appealing.
25-MAR-2013
Take A Flying Leap!
I watched this heron as it fished among the rocks below a dam. Here it is leaping from one rock to another.
I also got a shot of it with a fish in its beak, and will post that one soon.
24-MAR-2013
Foggy Morning Along the Tracks
We do have our share of foggy mornings. Sometimes it can make an attractive scene.
23-MAR-2013
Beautiful Blossoms
The cherry blossoms are out.
A number of Japanese Cherry trees have been planted around town along the streets and they certainly beautify the city.
We need to enjoy them now, because with a good rain they will fall and can look like pink snow on the ground.
22-MAR-2013
Anna's Hummingbird
This is the first hummingbird I have ever photographed and is one of a half dozen shots I got before it left. My bird book shows only two types of hummers, one being the Anna's Hummingbird. This one has that gorgeous purple throat shown in the picture accompanying that designation. The bird was in Delta Ponds.
21-MAR-2013
Artistic Window Display
I was attracted to this nice display back in the shadows in the window of an antique store.
The light on the painting and the surrounding darkness made a nice contrast.
20-MAR-2013
Genteel Gentleman
I met and enjoyed visiting with this nice gentleman at Delta Ponds. He lives nearby and visits often. Will likely see him again sometime.
19-MAR-2013
Yellow-rumped Warbler
I was excited to see this bird at Delta Ponds. I couldn't find anything exactly like it in my bird book.
Thanks to all who identified it as a yellow-rumped warbler!
Photo was shot in DX mode and then cropped.
18-MAR-2013
Pond Turtle
I would like to introduce you to one of the residents of Delta Ponds, a pond turtle. Sorry, I didn't get the name, forgot to ask! :)
Shot in DX mode and then cropped.
17-MAR-2013
Abstract Waters
The patterns in the waters, surrounding this boat dock in Dexter Lake, made an interesting abstract as they were stirred by the breeze. I thought it made a pretty scene.
16-MAR-2013
Sunrise From Kelly Butte
Kelly Butte is a small hill in Springfield. It is the best place for me to go to view the sunrise. Down below you can see a fog bank.
15-MAR-2013
Captivating Camellia
I am so impressed with the lovely red of this camellia. 'Red delicious' came to mind. :)
14-MAR-2013
Through The Looking Glass
While waiting for my wife at the doctor's office, I watched the fish in an aquarium. The glass was thick and not totally clean. Since I had my little V1 with me, naturally I ended up shooting a few pictures. Because of the dirty glass some sharpness was lost but I still liked this result.
13-MAR-2013
Squirrel Challenge
This little guy thought I was getting too close and so took a defensive stance. I backed off......after I got the shot. :)
12-MAR-2013
Song Sparrow
This was a somewhat difficult shot, being a dark morning and a dark bird. I had to run the ISO much higher than I wanted to with this camera. Still, it turned out ok.
11-MAR-2013
Doing Laundry Is No Holiday!
Early morning at Holiday Coin Laundromat, Springfield, OR.
This was truly a shot in the dark!
10-MAR-2013
Modern-Day Sunrise
Whenever I see what looks like a pretty sunrise I have to jump in the car and head for the nearest place to view it. Unfortunately, the spot has the International Paper Company mill in the foreground. Since this is one of Springfield's largest employers, it is part of the landscape. This morning's sunrise shows more than one sign of modern-day civilization.
09-MAR-2013
Miko and Leo the Lion
Miko the lion dog and his pal. Leo the lion.
08-MAR-2013
Delightful Daffodil (Narcissus)
Spring has got to be on the way. The daffodils are blooming, like this one in Alton Baker Park
(And then there is the sure sign of spring, we move our clocks ahead this Sunday). :)
07-MAR-2013
Dexter Lake
Dexter Lake is a manmade lake, or reservoir, behind Dexter Dam. The small city of Lowell sits along the lake.
We took advantage of an infrequent sunny day to capture the blue sky and white clouds.
This is the upper part of Dexter Lake, below Lookout Point Dam. The bigger part of the lake is behind me as I stood on the road crossing the lake.
06-MAR-2013
Orchard In Winter
A scene from an orchard along Hayden Bridge Road
(My first D600 photo posted!)
05-MAR-2013
Miko and His Brother, Yoda
My grandson's LEGO CLUB magazine came the other day and the cover showed the character, Yoda, that bears a mild resemblance to our little dog, Miko.
I thought I might as well get a picture of them together. Notice that they are both frowning. :) It was a job getting them both posed the same.
04-MAR-2013
On The Freeway at 70 MPH
Had to go to Portland today for my semi-annual eye exam, to check on the status of a growth in the eye. Fortunately, it has reduced in size a bit. Good news!
On the way, home my eyes were dilated and I sat in the backseat. Shot this picture of a triple through the window at 70 MPH with a little Coolpix 510.
03-MAR-2013
What do you think of my wingspan, baby?
Great Blue Heron showing off for a female in Alton Baker Park
02-MAR-2013
X-ING
Watch out for kids and others! A scene from Alton Baker Park.
Photo is not 'photoshopped!'
01-MAR-2013
Carol's Green Thumb
For March 1st, we have Carol's bright flowers, just freshly repainted. She has such a green thumb! :)
28-FEB-2013
Line Up For a Latte
I sometimes get my latte in early morning. It can be quite busy at times.
27-FEB-2013
Courtship
Herons in the nesting tree at Alton Baker Park.
26-FEB-2013
Waiting for You in the Forest!
I could just picture coming across this tree in the dark with just the right kind of light. Might be a bit scary.
But then I guess I have seen too many movies. :)
25-FEB-2013
Window Shopping
Window shopping buys such beautiful things, and the price is right! All it costs is some time and, well, also having a camera. But the rewards are many.
(As a bonus, perhaps you will see me also) :)
24-FEB-2013
Western Scrub Jay
Here is a Western Scrub Jay in a bush at Alton Baker Park. The scrub jay is very pretty I think, but also somewhat aggressive with other, smaller birds. It is quite common in Oregon.
23-FEB-2013
Herring Gull With Dinner
While walking the trail in Alton Baker Park, I saw a bunch of seagulls making a commotion alongside the stream that runs through park. I was curious to know what the uproar was all about. When I got to a point across the stream, I could see that one of them had a fish that it didn't want to share with the others. Looks like a pretty big fish for a seagull to handle.
22-FEB-2013
February Flowers - Rhododendrun
Our flowers start blooming in February, including Rhododenrun, Crocus and several others.
Occasionally, a cold snap and freeze will come along and kill the blossoms, but normally things start turning now. These flowers are in Alton Baker Park.
21-FEB-2013
Regal Beauty
At times the Great Blue Heron can look awkward and ragged, but at other times it can look so regal!
I saw this heron amidst nature's seeming chaos and the light and shadow was just right to show the beauty of the creature.
20-FEB-2013
Water On The Rocks
The cascading water hitting the rocks at the base of a waterfall caught my attention.. I decided I liked it best as a study in B&W.
19-FEB-2013
The Verdant Willamette Valley
A farmer's field with the cloud enshrouded Coburg Hills in the background.
18-FEB-2013
Close Encounter
This Herring Gull was sitting on a lamppost. I kept inching closer to see if I could get a shot as it flew off. I got so close I didn't get the whole bird in the picture. :)
Photographed this morning in Alton Baker Park.
17-FEB-2013
Reflecting
This grabbed my attention while at Alton Baker Park. Something about the colors, composition and reflections made me pause to enjoy the view.
16-FEB-2013
Beauty In The Forest
I was struck by the beauty of the decaying stump, surrounding by trees that will benefit from the nourishment it will leave behind. This is why I love the forests so much. life is passed on and nourished, and the beauty continues. I enjoy and appreciate all the wonderful works of Creation. It's when we humans interfere that the beauty is disrupted.
15-FEB-2013
Historic Barn - William L Finley National Wildlife Refuge
My friend, John, and I paid a visit to the William L Finley Wildlife Refuge this morning. Along with a lot of land devoted to space for wildlife, one will find some historic buildings.
This barn is one of them.
14-FEB-2013
Wood Duck Love
I saw a group of Wood Ducks this morning at Delta Ponds. They are beautiful and unusual looking. This male and female seem to enjoy each other's company.
13-FEB-2013
Two Pretty Ladies
I think these two female Hooded Mergansers are very pretty! -
12-FEB-2013
Male Hooded Merganser
I enjoyed watching a merganser pair at Alton Baker Park, and was able to get a close look at the male.
11-FEB-2013
Majestic Falls
Yes, the waterfall is well named! I love to visit there. The setting is beautiful and the boardwalk below the falls gives a person opportunity to get right down into it all.
10-FEB-2013
Precarious Landing Site
Have you ever thought of the flying skill of the birds, particularly the large ones like this heron?
Look at the precarious landing sites they routinely use, here a nesting tree. It is amazing how those branches hold them up.
I am always in awe of these big birds!
09-FEB-2013
Another "My Kind of Road."
Upper Calapooia Drive, off Hwy 228, between Crawfordsville and Sweet Home, OR.
08-FEB-2013
Royal Terrace Falls
My friend, John, and I traveled to McDowell Creek Park this morning and visited two of the falls in the park.
This one, Royal Terrace Falls, is quite interesting as it cascades down what looks like terraces.
There is a stone stairway to the top alongside the falls. It is a pretty steep climb.
07-FEB-2013
Herons In The Nesting Tree
There was lots of activity in the heron nesting tree in Alton Baker Park. I saw as many as a half dozen Great Blue Herons in the tree at once.
I got a number of fine images,some in flight. If I can get it done, I may post a gallery of heron shots.
06-FEB-2013
The Leaning Tree
This moss covered tree in Delta Ponds has taken a nice slant on life! :)
05-FEB-2013
Promise of Spring!
The appearance of crocuses always assures us that spring is coming!
Found in a neighborhood yard this morning.
04-FEB-2013
Industrial Sunrise
Though the sky was cloudy, there was enough open sky this morning to have a colorful sunrise. In the foreground is the International Paper Company mill.
03-FEB-2013
Hill Family Cabin
Log cabin in Greenwaters Park, Oakridge, Oregon.
Evidently, the original cabin belonged to a Captain William Hill, one of the first settlers in the Oakridge area, around 1820.
02-FEB-2013
Egret Liftoff
I captured this Great White Egret just as it took off from one fishing spot for another. Location - Delta Ponds.
01-FEB-2013
An Old Barn
This barn looks very old to me. Just the design, siding and windows all look like something from the past.
I don't have any idea how old it is. I will have to stop someday and ask.
31-JAN-2013
When I Am With You Time Stands Still
Shot with a nice sharp lens, AF-S Micro Nikkor 40mm f/2.8G DX on a D200.
30-JAN-2013
Carol Loves Frosties at Wendy's
I made a stop at Wendy's to get Carol a Frosty. She loves them. :) I was pleased with this low light image shot of the Springfield Wendy's.
29-JAN-2013
Ring-Necked Duck Pair
My Birds of Oregon book ID's these birds as 'Ring-Necked Ducks' even though I see no ring around the neck. The ring seems to be around the bill! :)
The little P510 was shot at its longest focal length of 180mm, equivalent to 1000mm in 35mm format, not the highest IQ for the lens. But it didn't do so bad.
Pretty impressive for such a tiny sensor.
28-JAN-2013
Great White Egret in Delta Ponds
27-JAN-2013
Black-capped Chickadee
I saw this bird at Delta Ponda and wasn't sure what it is. I am told it is a Black-capped Chickadee.
It looks pretty plump and I am not sure of the colors, due to the golden early morning light.
26-JAN-2013
Portrait of a Barn
Barn On Central Road. near Crow, OR
25-JAN-2013
Springfield Museum
In the picture, the Springfield Museum is the brick building on the right. The stairway and walkway lead to city hall. People were just starting to come in for work. I am sure they wondered who that weird guy with the camera was, wandering around out there in the dark.
24-JAN-2013
I Am Like a Bear Before I Get My Latte!
In line at the latte stand. The fellow in the car ahead looked pretty wild before getting his treat. Actually, a young lady in the latte stand gave him a dog bone snack.
23-JAN-2013
Greater Scaup
Male and female Greater Scaup, a coastal bird, is less commonly seen inland. I guess the variety of vegetation in Delta Ponds attracted them. I think they winter in the US.
22-JAN-2013
Our Last Day of Freezing Fog (hopefully)
After a week of freezing fog, it is time for a change. Our forecast for today is for the fog to eventually lift and change to rain by tomorrow. This will be a blessing to those of us whe suffer from allergies, etc. The air has been stagnant. We were warned not to be out in it too much. I did go out at times to shoot a few pictures, such as this one. The red stalks seemed to glow in the morning light and the coating of ice just added to the beauty.
21-JAN-2013
Low Altitude Flying
This heron did some low altitude flying from a spot where I was photographing it to a spot just a bit farther away, where I got even more images. As you know, my favorite bird!
20-JAN-2013
My Photo On Display
The image of the feeding horse was a photo of the day in 2012. My wife has it in a frame on display.
I shot this picture with indoor lighting, with the resulting colors and contrasts. I found them pleasing.
19-JAN-2013
Chiropractic
Sign on the side of the Pure Life Chiropractic building.
18-JAN-2013
Mountain Goat (Cabela's)
Paid my first visit to Cabela's this morning. The wild animals of North America on display there were great!
Fun place to visit! To me, this looks like a scene right out of the Rockies!
17-JAN-2013
Springfield Bridge In A Fog
Today's weather forecast - "Air stagnation advisory remains in effect until 6 PM PST Sunday for the lower Columbia..and the Willamette Valley".
The result is heavy fog with no breeze to move it and polluted air, giving rise to a warning for us older ones and anyone with respiratory problems to stay indoors.
I went out long enough to get a few pictures. This is one of them.
16-JAN-2013
Mikayla The Artist
Our grandaughter, Mikayla, is working on a project in 'Digital Imaging' at Lane Community College. I did this shot for use in her project, using the little SB-N5 Nikon speedlight with the V1. Not being a flash person, I was concerned about how it would come out, but like the result.
15-JAN-2013
Great Blue Heron at Alton Baker Park
I thought this heron was in a very pretty setting.
14-JAN-2013
Cross Over The Bridge
The trail on the other side of the bridge beckons.
13-JAN-2013
Salmon Creek
Salmon Creek is about five miles out of Oakridge, OR. We had to travel an ice covered road to get to the park where this shot was made.
12-JAN-2013
Jogging on a Frosty Morning
These joggers in Alton Baker Park were out in the early morning light. The ground is white with frost.
11-JAN-2013
Snow Dusted Forest
10-JAN-2013
Another Snow Day
We had enough snow this morning to cover the ground. This scene is in the Coburg Hills along narrow McGowin Creek Road.
Farther up the road I ran into deeper snow and slicker road conditions.
09-JAN-2013
Beauty In A Store Window
Shot this in a store window on this morning's latte run. The place is a very interesting antique store called "Vintage Revival."
08-JAN-2013
Three In A Tree!
It was a treat to see three young bald eagles in one tree. Two of them haven't completely changed color, their heads are not pure white like the middle one.
07-JAN-2013
Jayden Up Close
Our youngest daughter and three grandkids came over the Cascades to see us. Lots of snow and ice up there so we were worried. But they made it safely and we are enjoying them for a couple days. Now we will be worried when they go back over the mountains. This is our youngest grandchild, Jayden, on our photo shoot this morning.
No 'touch up' on the eyes, just the normal processing for a RAW file, using ViewNX2.
05-JAN-2013
Springfield Millrace
Springfield's Millrace has a long history and is the subject of a recent restoration project. This photo shows the Millrace just before the waters enter the Willamette River at Island Park. At the top you will see an observation deck. But this area has not yet been restored.
04-JAN-2013
The Warmth of the Morning Sun!
This morning's sun was a very warm tone and this cormorant at Delta Ponds was enjoying it with wings spread for drying.
I liked the detail in wings and eye. Pretty good for a Nikon Coolpix P510!
03-JAN-2013
Icy Cold Morning At Alton Baker Park
It was 27 degrees Ferenheidt this morning when I took my walk in Alton Baker Park. Now that is cold for us!
I loved the pink color in the southwestern sky. That is the old EWEB (Eugene Water and Electric Board) building across the Willamette River.
02-JAN-2013
Trellis At Millrace Park
We had some of that rare winter sunshine today and I liked the lighting on this trellis at Millrace Park.
It was cold but so nice to have sun and blue sky after a freezing fog this morning.
01-JAN-2013
May Good Things Happen To You!
V1-010113-027
Songwriters: STROUSE, CHARLES/ADAMS, LEE
Chorus:
Those were the days my friend
We thought they'd never end
We'd sing and dance forever and a day
We'd live the life we choose
We'd fight and never lose
For we were young and sure to have our way.
La la la la...
Those were the days, oh yes those were the days