In the Fog

Recently our temperatures were above freezing and the foggy conditions were a direct result.  So, I spent part of a day outdoors capturing some of these unique images while also trying to avoid the extremely muddy and wet areas of the park; however, at the end of this hike in the heavy haze, my jeans still looked as if I had been wading in the river.  Despite the soggy terrain, I enjoyed walking in the misty shroud created by Mother Nature and getting shots of these rather common scenes amid the mysterious backdrop the fog provided.

On Thin Ice

Winter often poses additional challenges for wildlife, including finding water for consumption and bathing.   Since birds/waterfowl need clean plumes in order to create adequate insulation to survive in such harsh conditions, we often see hundreds of Canada Geese wherever there is open water.  And, even though these big birds are sometimes noisy and leave a lot of undesirable droppings, today's photos provide a glimpse of their reality during a cold, Iowa winter.

Mustache Made of Olives

Well, I know most adults repeatedly tell youngsters not to play with food; however, during the holidays I sure enjoyed the little ones and their creative endeavors with carrots, Play Doh, olives and so on.  Now, since I am simply the doting aunt, watching my nieces and nephews do things they usually don't have permission to do at home, humors me and gives me plenty to photograph as well.  And, if you need any ideas for alternate uses of black olives, consider a mustache for a new look in the new year!

A Winter Walk

Recently, during a mild-winter day, I ventured out with camera in hand looking for some photo opportunities.  At that time we had no snow on the ground because the minor accumulation we initially received had melted soon thereafter during several days with above-freezing temperatures.  And, like so many times before, one of my destinations included a local park and photographing the resident squirrel population.  However, an unexpected sighting was the remains of a snowman as it stood on a grassy trail near the river.  Be sure to see if you can spot the white figure just below and to the right of a big tree.

Lovely Lines

Recently this photo received some recognition in an on-line photo exhibit, and I wanted to share.  The picture was taken in Chicago while I was standing on Michigan Avenue but photographing all sorts of surrounding high rises.  This particular building captivated me with its wonderful lines and angles that move the eye throughout the image.  Anyway, the following link will take you to the Light Space & Time on-line gallery where you can view all sorts of fascinating images.  Remember to look for "Lovely Lines!"  www.lightspacetime.com/all-photography-special-recognition-category/

Contrails

This picture is simple yet serene.   As I was driving through town one cool and crisp evening, I was mesmerized by the deep blue sky along with the setting sun and hints of coral through the trees.  And, of course, I immediately stopped and took this photo.   In addition to the sunset and colorful horizon, the contrails were striking as they painted bold white stripes in the early December sky.  Enjoy the quiet the image conveys.

Kids' Gifts: Some Favorites

This post contains photos of some of the rather simple, yet engaging gifts that family members gave to the youngsters, including jingle bells, a dry-erase board and a stroller for a baby doll.  Another very popular gift was the set of balloons and mini air pump especially made to create figures out of balloons.  Finally, although there are no pictures of the item featured here, a rubber chicken equipped with a squeaker was another big hit with my nephew; however, his mother and grandparents were not thrilled as he galloped throughout the room holding it high and repeatedly squeaking that plastic bird!  Yes, the jingle bells were also noisy but not quite as rough on the ears as the chicken.  And, I doubt his mother has yet forgotten from whom he got that gift!