Petals in Pink

"Art is when you hear a knocking from your soul...

and you answer."

                             --Guillemets

Bobbing

Not often do I find myself fishing; however, while photographing scenery in local parks I often come across dedicated fishermen.  Since this area of Iowa is full of waterways, including rivers, ponds and trout streams, anglers are everywhere most any time of the year.  And, although no person is visible in this image, one assumes there is a handler at the other end.  For me, the bobber is mesmerizing as it subtly wiggles and creates delightful concentric circles while waiting to be pulled under by something lurking below.

Have a Seat

This is the perfect setting to meet a friend and chat, chat, chat.  Or simply a great place to sit quietly and enjoy a good book.  Or, perhaps, a cozy environment in which to interact with a love interest.  Essentially, the message is find your place and do your thing.

Eternal Love

"The best and most beautiful things in this world cannot be

seen or even heard, but must be felt with the heart."

                                                    --Helen Keller

Fixed Gaze

"Man looks into the abyss, there's nothing staring back at him.

At that moment, man finds his character.  

And that is what keeps him out of the abyss."

                                                      --Hal Holbrook

Brrrrrrrrr

This image is dedicated to all those experiencing the frigid grip of winter -- that includes much of the USA.  Although this is an awesome scene from inside a warm, comfy home, having to go about one's regular duties in the midst of the bitter cold, snow and/or ice can get to be quite a chore.  To all of you that work outdoors in the elements, take extra special care.

Half & Half

Architectural decay provides all sorts of possibilities for creatives minds.  As a photographer, these scenes offer multiple avenues of reflection as well as inspiration for new discoveries.  Just like the one shown above, decaying structures are everywhere and could be fun to explore.  Get out and take a look as you never know what you might find.

Playtime

Although the cold remains, I am out and about with camera in hand.  Whenever there is fog and a reasonable temperature, you can bet I've been out shooting.  And, that's exactly how I captured this image.  Yes, I love the lines and how it reminds me of a large spider with enormous blue legs.  What do you see?  Would love to hear your interpretation.

Posts

"Nature creates curved lines while humans create straight lines."

                                       --Hideki Yukawa

1600 Pennsylvania Ave

In honor of Presidents' Day, this image shows the official residence and primary work space of the President of the USA.  Widely referred to as The White House, this structure stands as a symbol of the USA, its government and its people.  Construction started in late 1792 but not until 1800 was it ready to be inhabited as President John Adams and his wife Abigail moved in.

Garden Hearts

Happy Valentine's Day!

"Anyone can catch your eye, 

but it takes someone special to catch your heart."

                                        --Unknown

A February Birthday

Enjoy a great birthday, brother, and many happy returns.

"May you live as long as you want

and never want as long as you live."

                                                      --An Irish Blessing

Snowmen

"Snowmen fall from heaven unassembled."

                                          --Unknown

Anticipation

"No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn."

                                                                  --Hal Borland

Selected for Exhibit

Okoboji Dreams by Stephanie Funke

This image, Okoboji Dreams, was one of the top 18 photos selected in the Sauk Prairie Community Photo Contest.  The opening reception is this coming Thursday, February 12 from 3:30-6 pm at the River Arts Center in Prairie du Sac, WI.  And, if you live in the area, I encourage you to stop by and take a look at some great photos and other artwork that will also be on display.

One Driver

Yes, one driver but multiple tractors all connected and proudly paraded through the streets of small-town, rural America.  Truly, this photo shows the pride, commitment and ingenuity of so many men and women who work the land and dedicate their lives to a profession that is, on a good day, challenging.

"Our deep respect for the land and its harvest is the legacy of generations of farmers who put food on our tables, preserved our landscape, 

and inspired us with a powerful work ethic."

                                                                --James H. Douglas, Jr.

Eyes

"The eyes shout what the lips fear to say."

                                   --William Henry

Lots of Lines

"A line is a dot that went for a walk."

                                              --Paul Klee

Under the Sea

"The world's finest wilderness lies beneath the waves..."

                                       --Wyland

A Golden Passenger

          

So, despite not having pets of my own, I am enamored with Golden Retrievers.  Their patience, playful disposition, loyalty and fluffy golden locks make them wonderful four-legged companions.  A few days ago while parking my vehicle, I spotted this beautiful fellow taking it easy in the passenger seat while his owner shopped.  Although I didn't want to bother him, I still couldn't resist snapping a photo with my phone.  And, even though the lighting is poor (due to the sun and my reflection) I hope this shot warms your heart and/or makes you think of some awesome 'Golden' that you love(d).