Starting to See More Birds as we travel south. The temperatures are cold throughout the midwest. But the birds no how to fun the sun spots and hide behind grass to stay out of the chilly winds.
Today we took the backroads—our favorite way to explore when we’re out in the country. There’s something peaceful about wandering through farmland, seeing the quiet rhythm of rural life. Along the way, we came across this apple orchard, and I had to stop. I’ve never seen apple trees grown like this before—tall, thin sticks lined in perfect rows, each one loaded with bright red apples. It almost didn’t look real, more like a scene from a storybook.
Curious, I tried one of the apples… and it wasn’t very good. So now I’m not sure what variety they are or if they’re meant more for processing than eating fresh. Still, the sight of those rows upon rows of apples glowing in the afternoon light was worth the stop. Moments like this are why we love taking the long way around.
Resting its Foot, at first I thought there was something wrong with its webbed foot. But they can actually get their feet way up there on their backs, because I saw it drop the foot after awhile.
The Doberman, who just happened to win best in show this year. Not this dog in my photos, I just finished making this portrait of this one when I saw it was announced that this breed one best in show. Beautiful dogs.
As our travels carried us farther south along the shores of Lake Michigan, we found ourselves drawn once again by the quiet promise of another lighthouse. This time, it was Big Sable Point Lighthouse, waiting patiently at the edge of Ludington State Park.
We were camping within the park and decided, on one of our final days, to follow the trail marked for the lighthouse. What we didn’t fully grasp at first was just how much of a journey it would be. The hike stretched over two miles one way, winding through rolling sand dunes and stands of trees that seemed to hush the world around us. Each step felt intentional, the path both challenging and beautiful, inviting us to slow down and simply take it all in.
By the time Big Sable Point came into view, it felt less like a destination and more like a reward. Standing tall against the vastness of Lake Michigan, the lighthouse marked not only the end of the trail, but the closing of our time at Ludington State Park. This venture would be our last here, and it felt fitting that it led us somewhere so timeless and still.
With one lighthouse left to see along Lake Michigan, Big Sable Point became the fifteenth I have photographed—bringing me one step closer to sixteen, each one carrying its own story, its own light, and its own quiet calling.
Its February – Time is going so fast. I am starting the month where I left off last time. The unique landscapes around Mission point Lighthouse.
The day we got there it was raining so hard. It is like you can see forever at this point and the storm clouds made for beautiful images against the calm waters.
Such a beautiful location. Plus just because it is raining if you are visiting here, head up to the light house anyway. There were way less people and the storms move through pretty quickly.
Standing out at Mission Point Lighthouse, the landscape feels almost other-worldly. The water is unbelievably shallow for what seems like forever, revealing smooth stones and sandbars that look as if the lake has quietly pulled back its veil.
Yet just a little farther north, there’s that odd, straight line on the water where everything changes. Beyond it, the waves rise higher, rolling and breaking as if they belong to a completely different body of water.
On this side of the rock break, though—right where I took the photo—the water rests in a calm, glassy stillness. It truly feels like two worlds meeting.
What’s fascinating is that it’s likely not a tide at all. The Great Lakes don’t have true ocean tides because they’re too small to be significantly affected by the moon’s gravitational pull.
They do, however, experience something called seiches—wind-driven water sloshing that can raise or lower water levels for a short time and make it look like a tide.
Add in sandbars, man-made breaks, and sudden shifts in depth, and you’ve got these surreal patterns where one side of the lake is smooth as silk and the other is full of texture and movement.
Mission Point is one of those magical places where the lake loves to show off—and every time you visit, it tells a different story.
Our travels brought us to the colorful and charming Point Betsie Lighthouse on the shores of Lake Michigan. Standing proudly since 1858, this lighthouse has a personality all its own—bright, welcoming, and full of history. In 2004, ownership was transferred to Benzie County, and ever since, the community has helped preserve its character and stories.
What makes Point Betsie even more unique is that it once had a bed-and-breakfast right on the property. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves and the sweep of the lighthouse beam drifting across the lake. It must have been something special.
Each lighthouse along Lake Michigan feels different, but Point Betsie has its own kind of magic—colorful, cozy, and timeless. Another little treasure tucked along the shoreline.
Dog Agility Events – it is that time of year. I am photographing dog agility events down south here. I have 3 lined up to do going into February. So I have been busy. I take around 4 to 6000 photos.
I love doing this. Seeing all the beautiful dogs and trying my best to capture them in motion makes for exciting weekends.
I have not had a chance to read others blogs, as the editing part takes me a couple of weeks. I truly enjoy being able to do this for the dog owners. Giving them a chance to see their dogs in action along with taking portrait photos of their dogs as well.
Short Description: From atop the hill, we caught our very first glimpse of Lake Michigan—a shimmering stretch of blue unfolding toward the horizon. After miles of travel, the view felt like a gift, calm and inviting compared to the wild reputation of its northern sister, Lake Superior.
How much smaller is Lake Michigan than Lake Superior? Lake Michigan is much smaller.
Lake Superior: ~31,700 square miles
Lake Michigan: ~22,400 square miles Lake Michigan is roughly 30% smaller in surface area, and Lake Superior is also deeper and holds nearly three times as much water.
Do the waves get as bad as Lake Superior? Lake Michigan can get very rough, especially during storms, but Lake Superior is known for the worst waves on the Great Lakes. Superior’s deeper, colder water and longer fetch allow massive waves—over 20+ feet in extreme conditions. Lake Michigan’s waves can still reach 10 to 15 feet, sometimes more during powerful storms, but they generally don’t reach the intensity or frequency of Superior’s largest waves.
When we left we drove done some backroads doing a little sight seeing and found acres of apples orchards. I have never seen apple trees shaped like this, they sure do produce plenty of apples.
A Interesting Find, we stopped to visit a small park in Mackinaw City, as we walked down this pier I looked to my left and here was a pink and white ship. I could see it said coast guard on it. But did not know anything about it. Except it was obvious it is a museum now.
Come to find out it is an iconic Ice Breaker ship.
It was nicknamed The MIghty Mac. It could break through several feet of solid great lakes ice.
I posted the photo on a facebook page about ships and boats. Which drew so many wonderful comments on folks who served on that ship or were rescued by that ship. Amazing to read all the stories.
McGulpin Point Lighthouse – This is lighthouse number 12, after crossing the 5 mile bridge we then went under it to go visit this light house on the west side of the bridge, along Lake Michigan.
This lighthouse is privately owned and they have made it into a museum. It is kept up very nicely. Lots of information of the entire area.
You can hike down the short trail to the beach where you can view the Mackinaw bridge from a different angle. It is very hard to get a five mile bridge into one photo, even from this distance and the widest angle lens I have.
There are moments behind the camera when reality and imagination meet, and something inside me whispers, “Look a little closer.” This sunset was one of those moments.
I was standing along the shore as the day softened into gold. The lake was calm, the air still, and a lone sailboat drifted quietly across the water as if it were moving through honey. The sun hung low — the exact sun you see here — glowing brighter than anything else in the world for those few last breaths of daylight.
But when I looked at it later, I didn’t just see a sun.
I saw gold. I saw warmth spilling downward. I saw a moment where heaven reached out and touched the water.
So I let my imagination take over — something I’ve started doing more and more when my photos spark a story. I added what I felt in my heart: the sun melting, dripping golden light into the lake like liquid fire. A surreal little daydream hidden inside a real, quiet evening.
That’s what I love about creating. Sometimes nature gives the scene… and imagination gives it a voice.
The other morning I looked up and saw cloud formations unlike anything I’ve ever witnessed. They curled and stretched across the sky like brushstrokes from a hand far greater than mine — almost like a portal opening into another dimension. For a moment I just stood there, quiet, humbled, and amazed.
Moments like this make me aware of how vast creation really is. We live our days on solid ground, but above us is a sky layered with wonders we rarely stop to notice. And lately I’ve been reading articles where scientists are talking about the possibility of more dimensions beyond the four we’re familiar with — length, width, height, and time. They speak of patterns in physics and tiny particles reacting in ways that hint at something more than what our eyes can see.
I don’t pretend to understand how they measure or observe those things. Science has its own language, its own tools, and its own ways of exploring the world. But when I hear them speak of “more,” my heart doesn’t run to doubt — it runs to awe. Because if anyone would craft a universe with depths beyond our understanding, it would be the One who spoke it into being.
For me, these discoveries don’t threaten my faith; they deepen it. Every new layer scientists uncover simply reminds me how much bigger God is than anything we’ve mapped or measured. The heavens still declare His glory, just as they always have. And maybe part of the beauty is that He allows us little glimpses — a strange cloud formation, a new discovery, a question that stirs inside us — just enough to spark wonder.
So when I look at these clouds, I don’t think of science versus faith. I think of how the Creator can use even a passing sky to remind us that His world is far more intricate, mysterious, and breathtaking than we can imagine.
And maybe that’s the point: To be reminded that we are small, He is big, and every now and then He paints something in the sky just to lift our eyes upward.
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse where the waters meet.
There’s something timeless about the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. Standing at the very tip of Michigan’s lower peninsula, it has watched over the place where Lake Michigan and Lake Huron meet for more than a century. I love wandering near it in the early morning, when the water is calm and the bridge is waking up in soft light.
The lighthouse feels almost like a storyteller — its brick walls holding memories of storms, ships, fog, and the steady work of guiding travelers safely through the Straits. Even on quiet days, you can almost imagine the beam sweeping across the dark waters long ago.
Every time I photograph it, the scene feels different. Some days the sky is full of drama, other days it’s peaceful and still. But the lighthouse remains the same: strong, grounded, and full of history.
Places like this remind me how small we are in the flow of time, and yet how beautiful it is to stand where so many have stood before — looking out over the straits, listening to the wind, and capturing a moment that will never look quite the same again.
Morning Views of the Mighty Mackinac Bridge – There’s something extraordinary about standing on the south side of the water, looking out toward the Mackinac Bridge. This is the place where Lake Huron and Lake Michigan meet—two great bodies of water blending and moving as one—and each morning brings a completely different scene.
Some days the water rests in perfect stillness, barely a ripple touching the shoreline. Other mornings, a soft blanket of fog drifts across the straits, wrapping the bridge in mystery so only its towers appear, rising out of the quiet. And then there are the crisp, clear mornings when the light catches every line of steel, turning the bridge into a silhouette against the sky.
No two days ever look the same, and that’s what keeps drawing me back with my camera in hand. The straits have a way of offering something new—new light, new colors, new emotion—every single time.
The night shots are their own kind of magic. When the sun slips away and the bridge lights glow across the water, it transforms into something peaceful and powerful all at once. Those will be coming soon, and I can’t wait to share them.
As we welcome a brand-new year, I want to wish each of you a season filled with joy, love, and moments that warm your heart. January may bring its brisk air and quiet days, but it also carries the promise of what’s to come.
Before long, the earth will begin to stir from its long winter rest. Buds will push through the soil, songbirds will return, and color will once again paint the landscape. I always look forward to that gentle awakening — a reminder that each season has its purpose, and every new beginning holds beauty waiting to be discovered.
May this new year bring you peace, laughter, and a renewed sense of wonder for the world around you. From my heart to yours, Sandra J
Night Motion Photography – having a little fun with the truck parade lights. All one has to do is move your focal ring on your lens as you press the shutter release button. Gives the photo some fun motion.
Now this photo below, take a look at the windshield, doesn’t the white area look like eyes?
So of course I had to help that photo out and add cartoon eyes. That is much better. 🙂
Crossing the Mackinaw Bridge – I went across this bridge a few times back when I was about 6 years old, traveling with my grandparents.
Now, 50 some years later, I finally crossed it again. Amazing how some structures can last about a life time. I don’t remember crossing the bridge at that age, my sister says we did a few times
I have to say, as an adult, I did not like crossing the bridge. I have a bit of a fear of heights these days. That bridge is a long one and you are so close to the edge of it with a short railing on each side.
After we got to the other side, I was good, we camped at a park on the south side of the bridge and this is the view the next morning at sunrise.
As Christmas Eve is here, I just want to take a moment to thank each of you who have followed along with me through the years. Your kind words, encouragement, and shared love for the beauty around us mean more than I can say.
My world is filled with the gifts our Father has placed before us — from breathtaking landscapes to the quiet presence of little ones like this stray cat who stopped by to rest awhile. Each moment reminds me that creation is full of wonder, both great and small.
It’s my hope that through my photos, I can share a glimpse of that beauty with those who might not be able to see it for themselves — to remind us all of the grace and joy that surround us every day.
Wishing you a blessed and peaceful Christmas season, filled with warmth, love, and light. From my heart to yours, Sandra J
When we visited the Soo Locks, the Edwin H. Gott was the largest ship we saw that day — a true giant of the Great Lakes. At 1,004 feet long, it moves millions of tons of iron ore each year between Lake Superior and the lower lakes.
But what caught my eye most wasn’t its size — it was its face. Through my lens, the front of the ship seemed to smile, almost as if it knew it was putting on a show for those watching along the shore. There’s something endearing about seeing such immense power softened by a touch of personality.
In that moment, the Gott wasn’t just a freighter — it was a reminder that even in industry and steel, there’s beauty and character waiting to be seen.
The Parade of Lights semi show in Mackinaw City is quite an experience. We arrived just in time for the big event and found the perfect spot that evening to set up our chairs and watch as the beautiful trucks rolled by, each one glowing brightly against the night sky.
Every year, this northern Michigan tradition brings together truckers and spectators alike. The semis cross the Mackinac Bridge and follow a parade route through town, giving everyone a chance to see an incredible variety of rigs decked out in colorful lights.
This year marked a record number of entries, and each truck shone with pride. Their polished chrome reflected the brilliant lights, creating a stunning display of color and craftsmanship. It was a wonderful celebration of dedication, community, and the spirit of the open road.
If you ever get the chance to go, I highly recommend it—but don’t forget to bring some earplugs! Between the sound of those beautiful horns and the occasional Jake brake symphony, it’s a noisy (and fun) experience you won’t soon forget.
Stay tuned—I’ll be sharing more from this event soon!
Saint Marys Falls Hydropower Plant – a very interesting area if you ever get up there. Lots to see from museums to ships. We loved our tour of the area.
Tucked beside the mighty Soo Locks, the Saint Marys Falls Hydropower Plant quietly channels the force of the St. Marys River into clean energy. Built in 1902, this graceful red-brick structure is one of the oldest operating hydro plants in the United States. Its 74 turbines once powered the locks and local industries, and today it still produces electricity for the region—more than a century later.
Standing along the riverbank, you can feel the deep hum of water rushing beneath the arches, where engineering and nature meet. It’s a reminder of how innovation and the Great Lakes have long worked together to move both ships and people forward.
Lake Superior Bay Mills Area, one can always find a variety of polished rocks along the shores of Lake superior, in all sorts of colors.
The tall building is a viewing area that has a high speed elevator in it. I did not go in it, the high speed sounds like it would turn my stomach. 🙂
The Saint Marys Falls Hydropower Plant, located in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, is a historic facility that harnesses the power of the St. Marys River as it flows between Lake Superior and Lake Huron.
There’s a quiet strength in the light that stands at Point Iroquois — a keeper of time where the great waters of Superior meet the flowing heart of the St. Marys. The waves whisper the stories of those who came before, of the Ojibwa who stood their ground and the Iroquois who met their fate upon these shores.
Here, history and horizon merge. The air carries the scent of pine and the sound of gulls, and the lighthouse — steadfast and weathered — still watches over the restless blue. Standing in its presence, you can almost hear the echo of canoes, the toll of ship bells, and the eternal rhythm of the Creator’s hand upon the lake.
🌅 Today
Today, Point Iroquois Lighthouse is part of the Hiawatha National Forest and serves as a museum managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Visitors can tour the keeper’s quarters, climb the 65-foot tower, and enjoy sweeping views of Whitefish Bay — where Lake Superior’s moods shift from calm beauty to fierce storms.
My Favorite Autumn Photos – autumn is winding down. We did not see a lot of color this year. As we have been driving south just ahead of the leaves changing. When the weather turns colder, my favorite thing is to walk in the woods.
I love the smells and the sounds of the dried crunchy leaves on the forest floor. Just a bit of color was all I needed for this season.
Ships and Tour Boats – It is December all ready, time goes so fast.
More boats and ships passing through the locks.
Average transit time:
Typically, it takes about 45 minutes to 1.5 hours for a ship to pass through the locks from start to finish.
Details of the process:
Ships first queue if traffic is heavy. Waiting times can be several hours to even a full day in peak shipping season.
Once in the lock chamber, the filling or emptying of water to match the upstream or downstream level takes roughly 15–20 minutes per lock.
Maneuvering in and out, securing the ship, and safety checks add additional time.
Factors affecting time:
Ship size: Larger freighters may take longer to secure.
Weather: Ice in winter or strong winds can slow operations.
Traffic volume: Summer months are the busiest, especially for iron ore and coal shipments.
So, while the actual lock passage is under 2 hours, including waiting and docking, a ship could take several hours total from approaching to leaving the locks.
Type of glass / lens The glass is part of a Fresnel lens — a multi-prism, stepped glass optic used historically in lighthouses to concentrate and project light efficiently.
I looked up information for this light glass in the photo below.
It has a weight listed as ~ 3,485 pounds
White Fish Point Museum
This museum had a lot of information and a very nice display of the interior of the light house from back in the day.
The Light Station was operated exclusively by the U.S. Lighthouse Service from 1849 until 1923, when the U.S. Coast Guard established a Lifeboat Rescue Station here.
The Lighthouse Service merged with the Coast Guard in 1939; the Coast Guard closed the Lifeboat Station in 1951, and took all personnel from the site in 1970.
he main cargoes moving through the locks are bulk commodities, mostly related to industry and raw materials. The primary cargoes include:
Iron ore – by far the largest cargo historically and currently. Mines in Minnesota’s Mesabi Range ship iron ore through the Great Lakes to steel mills in the lower lakes.
Coal – used mainly for steel production and power generation.
Limestone – used in steelmaking and construction.
Grain – such as wheat, corn, and soybeans, shipped from the Midwest to export ports.
Salt, cement, and other bulk materials – smaller in volume but still significant.
Petroleum products and chemicals – some tankers pass through, though bulk dry cargo dominates.
In modern traffic, iron ore pellets are the dominant cargo, making up most of the tonnage.
In 1913, on the Canadian side (related but somewhat different locks/canal), ~ 8,285 vessels carrying 42.7 million tons of freight passed through the Sault Ste. Marie Canal. Parks Canada
Recent / Modern Annual Traffic
About 7,000 vessels per year now transit through the U.S. Soo Locks, hauling ~ 75-90 million tons of cargo.
I think we saw 5 or 6 go through while we were here. They say Mondays are their busiest days.
Soo Locks – this was on my list to visit and we finally made it this year. First you have to pass through the security gates, as this area is along the Canada border.
Gates all along the lock area.
They made a wonderful viewing platform for visitors to watch the ships come in.
The first State Lock (on the U.S. side) was completed in 1855, to bypass the rapids of the St. Marys River.
Before that, cargo and canoes had to be carried (portaged) around the rapids by Native Americans, explorers, and early traders.
The Ohio government (Michigan) built the first lock, which was operated by the State; later, in 1881, the U.S. Government took over, and the locks became toll-free.
Over time, additional locks were added to accommodate larger vessels
First Ship View – before we head to the Soo Locks, we went down river to a little park I found on the map where the ships go by on the way to the locks.
There is a great app called Vessel Finder, that shows most all ships and boats any where you want to look. So I pulled up the app and it showed this ship was about to be at this small park.
We went down there and here it was passing by. Love this app. It usually gives the name of the ship, how big it is and where it is headed.
This one is named the Erie Trader. My neighbors brother lives on the other side of the bay right by the water. He says the earth shakes a bit when these ships go by his yard.
Sunrise on the Bay – the next morning I walk over to the water behind all the buildings. I found a quiet place where the water is calm and the sunrise is gorgeous.
It gives way to a beautiful reflection on the horizon.
Sioux Ste Marie – We are staying not far from the Soo Locks at a place called Bay Mills.
We are enjoying a few days with some friends that we camp with during the winter here at Bay Mills Campground.
This is a wonderful place to visit, especially to see the ships going through the locks. Plus more historic places here that I will show over the next couple of blog post.
Let’s start by defining what is wide angle anyway. Technically it is any lens that has a wider field of view than what the human eye sees.
What does a wide angle lens do?
Wide angle lenses distort things and enhance perspective.
What that means is that objects closer to the camera appear larger than ones farther away, even if they are the same size in reality.
When should one use a wide angle lens. Well, whenever you want to get that wow factor. I use mine for lanscapes at times.
But I love using it for animals such as the photo below.
Wide angle works great for donkeys. I just love his ears.
Where as this photo below is his normal look. Don’t forget to use your wide angle lens on your phone cameras as well. Most all phones have them. Adds a little fun to your shots.
Tahquamenon Falls – another waterfall I always wanted to see. Beautiful area, I bet the fall colors are spectacular now. We were there a few weeks ago.
The state parks are sure nice these days. They make wonderful trail systems to get to all the hot spots. Makes for easy hikes for all ages.
Ship Wrecks on Lake Superior – November is referred to as “The Month of Storms” on the Great Lakes. The storm that hit when the Fitzgerald went down was one of the biggest, and the worst that Captain McSorley said he had ever seen. In the Fitzgerald’s storm, winds as fast as 45 knots were reported, with waves as high as thirty feet.
Estimated total shipwrecks in Lake Superior: about ~550
Estimated sunk “at or near Whitefish Point” / the Shipwreck Coast:about 200–240 ships
Open lake (offshore water): usually only 45–55°F (7–13°C), even in midsummer
🌡️ Below the surface:
Just a few feet down, the temperature drops quickly — the deeper layers of Lake Superior stay around 39°F (4°C) year-round.
📍Whitefish Point area: Because it’s exposed to open, deep water and the cold upwelling currents, the surface temperature there in summer typically ranges from 45–55°F (7–13°C), rarely higher.
Light House 10 – I almost forgot about lighthouses. I am seeing a few on this trip. First one is this East Channel Light house, it is located on Grand Island and visible when you take a boat ride along Pictured Rocks.
In June 1864 and June 1866, Congress appropriated money to build one or two beacon lights at the discretion of the Secretary of the Treasury, at the entrance to Grand Island Bay and Harbor, Lake Superior.
A light or set of lights was needed to allow vessels to use Munising Harbor as a major harbor of refuge.
The Lighthouse Board spent the funds in 1868-70 building the East Channel Light and a pair of range lights on shore. The lighthouse, a wood framed keeper’s house with an attached square wooden tower operated only until 1913 when it was replaced by the new range lights installed at Munising in 1908. George Prior was working as keeper at the East Channel Light at the turn of the century and was probably the last person to serve at the post.
Restoring the Lighthouse:
Long abandoned, the lighthouse was in danger of crumbling to the ground until just a few years ago, when a group of private citizens, including the owner, decided to do something about it. They repaired its stone foundation and supported the tower and house with a series of cables. Now a much sturdier building rests on the sandy shoreline of the island.
Its deep brown foundation shows signs of the repairs, but its wood siding has not seen a trace of paint or other decoration. The wood has weathered to a dark gray and the square tower is capped with a dome of green copper roofing and exposed to the elements.
The next evening, we went to a little parking area along the shore of Lake Superior, word has it that the northern lights were going to be out that evening.
White Fish Point in the UP is where you will find Light house number 11 on my list. It also has a ship wreck museum that includes information on the Edmund Fitzgerald Ship that sunk only 17 miles from shore.
The waters are very ruff up in this area as the November winds increase. Even on the day we were there, the winds were higher than at most every other place we stopped along Lake Superior.
Most of the areas along the lake have been calm like this photo below.
Lake Superior Northern Lights – I woke up about 2 am on this particular night, or lets say morning. Husband wakes up and says, ” Do you want to go look?”
At 2 AM, tired and unsure, I almost let the moment slip away. I said yes, lets go.
The beach at Lake Superior was so calm that the water mirrored the sky, and though I couldn’t see the northern lights with my own eyes, I set up my camera anyway.
To my surprise, it revealed what I would have missed—the softest hues of pink and yellow lingering on the horizon, the last whispers of the aurora.
This once-in-a-lifetime image reminds me that sometimes the most extraordinary beauty is waiting just beyond our hesitation, if only we take that extra step to look.
Dear friends, This past month has been a very tender month. My sweet Chloee has gone on ahead, and within days, two of my camping friends said goodbye to their dogs, while a young girl I know lost her beautiful horse.
Each life so loved, each memory still warm in our hearts. I wanted to gather them here — not in sadness, but in gratitude — and share the portraits I created to honor these companions who loved us so well.
🐾 Chloee — My Faithful Girl
Chloee was more than a dog; she was a quiet presence beside me through every season of life. She had a way of knowing when I needed stillness, and her gentle eyes seemed to say everything words could not.
The house feels a little emptier without her, yet I see her everywhere — in the soft morning light, in the places she used to rest, and most of all, in my heart.
I created her portrait with love, blending moments that showed who she truly was — loyal, tender, and full of grace. This portrait is my way of saying thank you for every walk, every look, every silent comfort she gave me.
🐶 For Our Campground Friends
Not long after Chloee’s passing, two dear friends I camp with lost their own dogs — each one unique and deeply loved. We’ve spent many winters together, sharing laughter, campfires, and stories that always seemed to circle back to our dogs. When their hearts broke, I felt it too.
I created portraits for them, hoping to bring a small bit of peace — something to hold onto that says, you were loved, and you mattered. These dogs filled our campground with joy, and their memories will forever be part of those quiet mornings and starry nights we shared.
Reno, Short hair Pointer – He just got old, he passed away peacefully at his home.
Elliot, she was rescued from a bad home by my friends. She lived with them for 3 happy carefree years before crossing over the bridge. She was an older dog and needed a peaceful home in her elder years and found one. She and Reno were loved very much by so many people.
In every gentle breeze, their happy hearts still run with ours.
Bound by friendship, faith & love, they’ve gone ahead of us, to where joy never ends, and every heart is whole again.
🐴 A Girl and Her Horse
That same week, a young girl I know lost her beautiful horse. Watching her face that loss reminded me of the special bond between a person and their first great animal friend. It’s pure. It’s trusting. It’s unforgettable.
Her horse was her freedom, her joy, her companion in every sense. Her horse had an unexpected accident. It was kicked in the head by another horse out in the pasture. She instantly was paralyzed and lost her vision. I had taken photos of her horse last summer at the county fair. So I was able to make a portrait to give to her as well.
When I finished her portrait, I saw not just sorrow but strength — the kind that grows when love is real and lasting. I hope she’ll see that, too.
🌈 Closing Thoughts
Though this season brought heartache, it also reminded me that love never ends — it simply changes form.
These portraits were my way of celebrating lives that touched ours deeply.
For those of us who have loved and lost, may we find comfort in knowing their spirits live on — in our memories, our stories, and in the love we carry forward.
Upper Peninsula Michigan, continuing our trek across the UP, Pictured rock is a place I always wanted to see. We finally made it there this year. It was a beautiful day and the views are amazing. A must see if you are ever up here.
Lots of colors against the rocks where water drips down. Plus water that is just so clear and beautiful colors of turquoise and blues.
Kitch iti kipi is an Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) name that’s usually translated as “Big Cold Spring” or sometimes “Mirror of Heaven.”
We travelled to this natural springs location next on our journey through the UP of Michigan.
It refers to Michigan’s largest natural freshwater spring, located in Palms Book State Park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula near the town of Manistique.
I look on google maps for the camera icon shown below, this helps us to find interesting landmarks and historical places to visit.
The spring is crystal clear, a 40 foot deep pool about 200 feet across. Over 10,000 gallons of water bubble up every minute from fissures in the limestone, keeping the water at a steady 45 deg F year round.
So when you hear Kitch-iti-kipi, think “the great, cold, ever-flowing spring”—a name that honors both the natural wonder and the Indigenous language of the region.
Perched where Lake Michigan meets the Bay de Noc, the 1865 Peninsula Point Lighthouse once guided schooners through treacherous waters and now serves a gentler purpose each autumn.
As summer fades, thousands of monarch butterflies funnel down the peninsula, pausing on golden sprays of wildflowers to rest and refuel.
From this quiet Michigan shore, these delicate travelers will soon embark on an astonishing 2,000-mile journey to the mountain forests of central Mexico—a migration as enduring as the little limestone light itself.
Ring Billed Gulls, gulls are everywhere. Some people don’t like them, I on the other hand do like them. They come in so many different color patterns and are easy to photograph. Mainly because they have become used to people and hang around looking for food that we leave.
But, I did find out that these birds do eat a lot of bugs, which I did not know. I watched them towards evening one night and they were picking bugs out of the air, all over the ground. I am all for that.
We are traveling the UP of Michigan right now. I am behind on my photos because there is just so much to see up here. The lake is gorgeous. We are traveling just ahead of the fall colors, I hope to get some good shots of fall for you all. But, it needs to catch up to us as we start to head south. 🙂
The UP, also known as the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, the folks are known as Yoopers. I am a yooper, even though I moved away for awhile. I was raised up here and have moved back here.
We are traveling the UP this fall, I will be sharing photos as we go. Have a great weekend. 🙂
At the last agility event I photographed, I was surprised—and delighted—to see not just one, but two Dobermans competing. It struck me because I don’t see Dobermans very often anymore. Once a familiar sight, they seem to have become less common compared to breeds like Border Collies or Aussies that dominate agility.
Dobermans have an interesting history. They were first developed in Germany in the late 1800s by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, who wanted a loyal, intelligent, and protective companion for his work as a tax collector. The breed quickly became known for its sleek look, athleticism, and courage, often serving in police and military roles.
While Dobermans are still loved by many, their popularity in the U.S. has declined over the years. According to AKC rankings, they remain in the top 20–25 most popular breeds, but you don’t see them nearly as often as retrievers, shepherds, or doodle mixes. Part of it may be that people perceive them as guard dogs rather than family companions, though in reality, well-raised Dobermans are affectionate, highly trainable, and loyal to their people.
Watching those two at the agility event reminded me of how versatile this breed really is. Built for speed and focus, Dobermans can shine in sports just as much as in protective roles. It was a treat to photograph them in action—reminders of a noble breed that still has plenty to offer.
Every August, I look forward to the Perseid meteor shower. It’s a time when the night sky puts on one of its best shows, and this year I set out with my camera to capture not just the meteors, but the Milky Way stretching high above the trees.
As I reviewed my photos later, I noticed something curious. There were so many streaks across the sky—but not all of them were meteors. Thanks to some help I received recently, I learned something new: most of the long, evenly bright lines in my photos aren’t actually shooting stars at all. They’re satellites.
Here’s how you can tell the difference:
Satellites appear as long, straight streaks of light. They tend to be uniform in brightness, and many of them are nearly the same length across a long exposure. Sometimes they even show up with a faint bluish tint.
Meteors (shooting stars), on the other hand, look different. They can flare brightly for just a moment, often with a glowing head and a tail that tapers off. Their lines are not as uniform—they’re sudden, sometimes irregular, and they often stand out against the steadiness of the satellites.
Learning this changed the way I look at my night sky images. Instead of being disappointed that not every streak is a meteor, I feel even more amazed at how much is happening above us—meteors burning up in the atmosphere, satellites silently gliding in orbit, and billions of stars making up the glowing river of the Milky Way.
Standing under that sky, with my camera pointed upward, I felt small but deeply connected—reminded that every night, there’s a vast universe at work above us, whether we notice or not.
On the Road Again – Every time we start to travel again, the song, On the Road Again pops into my head. I think Willie Nelson sang it.
This is one of my favorite views as we travel north to the lake.
As you crest this hill, it almost looks as if the road is climbing straight into the water. The deep blue band on the horizon is Lake Superior, but the way it appears higher than the roadway is a trick of perspective.
The land between the hill and the lake is covered with dense forest, and from this vantage point you can’t see much of it. Because the treetops are relatively dark and flat compared to the brilliance of the open water, your eyes are drawn past them to the lake itself. The curvature of the earth and the way the horizon meets the sky add to the illusion, making the lake appear to rise up like a wall in the distance.
In reality, the lake sits much lower than the roadway—you’re just seeing the vast expanse of water meeting the horizon. It’s a reminder of just how immense Lake Superior really is: so big it looks like an ocean, and so wide that the horizon line can easily trick your eyes.
At Dixon Springs State Park, the American beech trees stand like ancient guardians of the forest. Their smooth gray trunks rise tall, but it is their roots that stop me in my tracks. Instead of remaining hidden beneath the soil, they sprawl across the ground, immense and powerful, gripping the earth as though holding on for centuries.
These roots tell a quiet story of survival. Beech trees grow with wide, shallow roots, spreading outward instead of digging deep. In the thin soils of this rocky landscape, erosion slowly pulls the ground away, leaving their anchor system exposed. What might seem like vulnerability is instead a display of resilience: roots transformed into sculpture, strength revealed rather than concealed.
And yet, even in their strength, these roots create space for tenderness. In the grooves and hollows between them, small flowers push through—violets, spring beauties, tiny blooms brimming with color against the gray bark. The tree’s great foundation becomes a shelter, a cradle for new life. Mosses creep in, insects find refuge, salamanders slip into damp pockets. Life gathers at the feet of the beech, nourished by its presence.
There is a lesson here. We often think of roots as hidden things, unseen but essential. Yet the beech reminds us that what is exposed—our struggles, our scars, our grip against the shifting ground—can be just as vital. In showing their roots, these trees reveal not weakness but strength, not barrenness but abundance.
The next time you walk beneath their branches, pause to look down. You may find yourself staring at more than a root system—you may see a living testament to endurance, shelter, and the surprising beauty of resilience.
Perseid Meteor Shower, well, not many shooting stars. Still to bright out with the full moon every night this week that I took these photos. Barely see the milky way.
Did one star trails combo facing the camera north. That is always fun to do. Making a circle out of the stars movement after you stack them. This one took 237 photos to make this one shot. I took them with my little go pro camera. Just put it on a tripod, turn it on and go back to bed. 🙂
Crooks Bridge, we only went to 11 bridges out of the 32 bridges in the area. This one we did not drive across. Most of them you can drive through.
But this one here is leaning a bit, it is hard to see but there is a cable from the bridge to the tree on the right. That is what is holding this one up. It leans just a tad.
Amazing craftsmanship goes into building these covered bridges. I had no idea they looked like this on the inside. They sure look sturdy enough with the heavy duty lumber.
Working Mills and Covered Bridges, if you are ever near Rockville Indiana, make sure to drive around and see some of their covered bridges. They do give out maps to find them all as well. Plus some of the areas have fall festivals like this place in the photo here.
They have a campground in the back, lots of things to do. We were there during the off season. So it was like a ghost town. But the mill in the photo is an working mill.
The man who owns it showed us around, they mill their own flours and such. We told them what we do with photography and he asked if we would take an aerial photo of his mill.
Its a Boy, well this was a surprise to see a buck up here. I hardly ever see one. I am guessing it is her baby from last year. The new fawn was hanging around with him like the are related. 🙂
Up close, a sunflower feels like peering into another world—one alive with hidden purpose and quiet miracles.
Beneath the golden crown of petals, the center is not just one thing, but hundreds of tiny flowers, each with its own life to live. In the very heart, the green, spiky florets are still young, waiting for their moment. As days pass, they will spiral outward in perfect, ancient patterns, each one following the rhythm of nature’s mathematics, the Fibonacci sequence.
Closer to the edge, the more mature florets lift their pollen-tipped heads, calling in bees and other visitors. Every touch, every exchange of pollen, is a step toward a seed being formed beneath. Someday, those seeds will feed birds, animals—or perhaps, be planted to begin the whole cycle again.
This is why I plant sunflowers every year. They are more than flowers—they are entire worlds, turning sunlight into life.
Perseid Meteor Shower, a couple weeks ago I stayed up late into the night to photograph the Perseid meteor shower. Well, it did not disappoint, except for the full moon rising that night, I could still see a lot of movement in the heavens.
The cameras has a hard time picking them up because it just did not get dark enough. But on this photo, the moon made the wispy clouds light up the sky for a bit. I like that.
My tiny little go pro camera picked up this strange light, only one photo of it. I have never photographed this ever in all the shots I have taken. Plus I was only shooting at 10 second shutter speed, sometimes 5 seconds because it was so bright.
I pointed this camera to the north and it caught this. So I asked the internet what it thought it was. It says it is a plane, more than likely. The straight lines are the lights on the wings and the lights down the middle is the one that blinks under a plane.
Makes sense to me. I will go with that. 🙂 Never know what you might see if you step out at night and look up.
Beyond the trees at the end of the road, is our little cabin in the woods. No one can see us back there but the sky’s are wide open to us on the other side of those trees. What I like to call my little corner of this big old world. 🙂
The town of Rockville has around 2500 people, it is very small and it has a wonderful old main street with a few shops still open. But, what surprised me the most is this building here. You can see the clock on top from anywhere in the town.
The town is the county seat, but to find such a building like this in such a small town, is quite a surprise to me. So I had to look up the history of it.
Early Structures (1826–1832)
When Parke County was established in 1821, Rockville was chosen as the permanent county seat in 1822. A modest log courthouse, also used as a church, was completed on the town square in 1826 P
The Brick Courthouse (1832–1879)
That initial log structure was replaced with a more durable two-story brick courthouse in 1832. This functional building served the county for over four decade.
Current Courthouse (1882–Present)
In 1879, county officials commissioned Thomas J. Tolan and his son Brentwood, a prominent Fort Wayne architectural duo, to design a grand new building.
Completed in 1882, at an approximate cost of $79,000, it was dedicated on February 22—George Washington’s birthday.
The courthouse is a centerpiece of the Rockville Historic District, which earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1993
Why So Grand for a Small Town?
The courthouse wasn’t just functional—it was a statement of civic pride and permanence. The size and ornamentation symbolized Parke County’s aspirations and identity, establishing Rockville’s stature as county seat.
Built in a popular architectural style of the era, its grandeur projected power and stability—a common trend across American small towns looking to cement their place in history.
Covered Bridges of Park County- we were told about a small town in Indiana named Rockville where they have over 30 covered bridges around their town.
So we had to stop for a visit and check some of them out. I have never photographed or even drove through a covered bridge. Very interesting and quite the technology that goes into to building one of these.
Most of them were built a long time ago as well. This one was built in 1867.
While Parke County’s covered bridges are now beloved tourist attractions—and the county actively moves some for preservation and accessibility—most bridges were originally built locally over the last 150+ years. Only a select few have been relocated for reasoned preservation and public display.
Underneath this bridge I found this old rusty wagon, those must have been a ruff ride with those wheels.
My Favorite Color – occasionally I will stop by an old car show. I actually had a 69 Nova SS back in the day. It was so fun to drive.
Now I don’t know cars at all, I don’t know what this car is here at all. I am sure maybe one of you might know. All I know is that out of all the beautiful colors parked along the street. This one caught my eye.
The Snow Shoe Hare – This guy finally came out of the woods as well this month. Such a beautiful rabbit. I will have more photos of it later. They having amazing eyes and of course huge snow shoe feet. 🙂
I Love September – normally September means cooler weather and the start of fall colors. Normally I saw, because one never knows for sure and it depends on where you live.
The fawn is growing up and making its appearance in our yard. Still showing its little spots.
Highly Compressed Photos, sometimes folks send my a photo that they want touched up a bit. But, there is only so much I can do with them because of compression. Here is an explanation as to what happens.
I can still work with the photo and make it into a painting. One can’t enlarge the photo into a huge print because of the loss of pixels. It will still print, if you print smaller sizes though.
Why Photos Lose Quality When Sent by Text or Social Media
When you send a photo through text message or social media, the platform doesn’t send your original, high-quality file. Instead, it compresses it to make it smaller and faster to send.
Here’s how compression works:
The file is shrunk – The service looks for areas in the image that look similar and merges them together, storing less information.
Tiny details are tossed out – Subtle textures, fine lines, and small color changes often get blurred or smoothed over to save space.
Resolution is reduced – Many platforms lower the number of pixels in the photo, which means less detail when you zoom in or print it.
The more times a photo is sent, saved, and re-uploaded, the more it’s re-compressed. Each “copy of a copy” loses a little more detail—like photocopying a photocopy until it looks fuzzy.
This is why, when I turn a texted or social-media photo into art, I’m often working with fewer fine details than in the original. I can enhance it, sharpen it, and bring out color, but some of the original crispness is gone forever—compression makes sure of that.
Before, a text message photo
After, a double exposure art print of the above photo, to soften it.
Each photo I take is more than just an image—it’s a piece of a story, a glimpse into a moment that stirred something in me. Whether it’s the pure joy of a child hugging her sheep or the quiet bond between a girl and her horse, my passion lies in capturing the emotions that live within these simple, beautiful connections.
I don’t just take photos—I create art that I hope will make you feel something too. Even if just for a moment, may it lift your heart, bring a smile, or remind you of the beauty in the everyday.
Horse Portraits, a couple of horses I photographed at the fair we were at. I don’t know the folks who owned the horses. In scenario’s like this. I like to photograph what catches my eye. Looking for a pose from the horses with the ears up and looking at something.
I use these as my sample portraits for my customers on my website. Plus sharing the beauty of horses with all of you. 🙂
The Hand Shake , one of my favorite parts of a show is the hand shake from the judge. No one knows who is the winner at this point. The judge does not line them up by 1st, 2nd, 3rd.
He lines them up and then pauses for a moment. Having everyone watch in anticipation. Then he goes up and shakes the hand of the winner. Always a fun time.
Fair time has always been one of my favorite parts of summer. It’s more than just a local event—it’s a true celebration of community, bringing together people of all ages. One of the best sights is watching the younger kids proudly show off the animals they’ve raised, all hoping to take home that coveted grand prize.
But the fair is about so much more than ribbons and trophies. It’s a hands-on way to teach the next generation about animal husbandry—how to properly care for livestock, understand their needs, and take responsibility. It’s also a chance for kids to get outside, work hard, and learn the value of dedication… all while having a great time doing it.
There’s something special about the mix of tradition, learning, and pure summer joy that makes the fair unforgettable every year.
My Cat – I think my cat likes to mess with me. Some days she is just chilling, looking peaceful and sitting quietly as I photograph her.
Then she does this sudden move and looks at the ceiling like a giant spider is going to land on my head. As I am looking all over trying to see what she is looking at.
The next minute she as a look that says, ” Just Kidding”, nothing there, Gotcha. They are way smarter than we think they are. 🙂
Chic Chic Chickadee, so many different poses. Taking a photo of these little birds perched on a branch is easy, and lots of different looks. But trying to get them flying is more of a challenge. Fast little birds.
Photography has a beautiful way of revealing the unseen—those fleeting sparks of light or emotion that the naked eye might miss.
I love stepping outside the box with my camera, especially during moments like the Fourth of July. Using a long lens, I draw closer than usual, not just to fireworks, but to the magic hidden within them.
In this shot, what might seem like just an explosion of color turns into something more—golden trails that resemble glowing eyes circling the light, watching, wondering. It’s in these surprises that photography becomes more than documentation—it becomes storytelling.
My hope is always to evoke a feeling, to stir a smile, and to offer a moment of wonder for anyone who takes a moment to look. Let your imagination run free—maybe you’ll see something entirely your own.
Finally Made it to a Waterfall – sometimes summer’s can be busy. We always try to take a couple of days to go for a walk at some waterfalls in our area.
Almost a Perfect Heart – I do love going for rides into the country. I enjoy looking at livestock in the pastures. We pulled up to a stop sign at this corner here, I got the camera out because I saw the calf is close enough for a photo.
Then I noticed the heart shaped marking on its for head. How cute is that. 🙂
Abe’s Grill, when we are out traveling, one of the things we like to do is find original places to dine at. Small mom and pop shops where the food is authentic and usually pretty good.
We found this small little hidden jem of a restaurant in Corinth Ms. On this day, Abe, the owner and founder was in the building. He loves to talk and tell the story of how it all came to be.
The man cooking in the this photo is Abe’s son. As you can see, Abe has collected many things in his travels with his wife.
He told us he built this place 52 years ago. He built the place himself with his wife. Back then he made .18 cents an hour. $9.00 a week.
The man in the black shirt is Abe, he actually still works the walk up window and takes the orders from folks there. He hands the order to his wife, who gives it to their son to make. The restaurant is a very narrow place, you can’t help but to talk to folks in that tight of quarters.
We enjoyed our visit with him. Have a great weekend. 🙂
This Old Barn, nothing is prettier than old barns. we came across this one in Indiana. The sign on it says Livery Barn.
A livery barn (or livery stable) was a place, especially in the 1800s and early 1900s, where people could:
Rent horses or horse-drawn vehicles (like buggies or wagons)
Board their own horses temporarily (like a parking garage for horses)
Sometimes get basic blacksmithing or tack repair services
They were usually located in towns near hotels, train stations, or general stores — sort of like today’s rental car lot meets animal boarding facility.
So if you see a sign or reference to a “livery barn,” it’s often connected to a historic setting or an old-fashioned service for travelers.
Northern Flicker, I was sitting on the porch watching this beautiful bird as it is looking for food. I have a pair of these that nest near the cabin every summer.
They love going in the soft dirt of the garden as they hunt for food. I don’t seem to have that many birds this year. But I can always count on seeing a couple of these.
There are treasures in the forest that many never see—not because they aren’t there, but because life moves too fast for most to notice. But when I step into the stillness of the woods, I find a different kind of richness.
Moss growing quietly on stone, like a miniature world of its own. Trees bent and twisted by time and weather, yet still reaching upward in quiet perseverance.
Wildflowers blooming in places no one planted, a gentle reminder that beauty doesn’t need an audience to exist.
Out there, away from the hum of the world, I find a place where I can listen—not with my ears, but with my heart. In the silence, I hear the unspoken words of life.
Of resilience, wonder, and the quiet artistry of our Creator, who placed these treasures not to be rushed past, but to be discovered.
There’s something sacred about the moment a bird soars overhead—whether it’s the commanding wingspan of an eagle, the graceful glide of a pelican, or the mysterious sweep of a raven.
Each flight reminds me that life is vast, full of movement, and always reaching forward. Like wings catching the wind, our dreams and opportunities lift us—sometimes unexpectedly, sometimes after long waiting—but always with purpose.
As I look up and capture these moments, I’m reminded that creation is alive with wonder. From the skies above to the stirrings of our hearts, we were made to rise, to explore, and to be continually amazed by the artistry of the One who gave both wings and dreams.
Video below of Eagle Perched High above me or click HERE, Eagle
As we step into the weekend, I’m reminded how life itself is a canvas—brushed with moments of joy, wonder, and the quiet companionship of our beloved pets.
Whether it’s the soft strokes of fur in a hand-painted portrait or the breathtaking artistry of a sunset sky, we are constantly surrounded by beauty—crafted by my hands, and far more masterfully, by the hand of our Creator.
May this gallery of pet portraits serve as a reminder that art is everywhere, waiting to be seen, felt, and celebrated. Here’s to a weekend filled with inspiration, gratitude, and the simple joy of noticing the beauty that surrounds us.
New Art Form – it is hot across the country this past weekend. So, I go outside for a bit and than back inside.
Being inside, I always have computer work to do of some sort. This past weekend I saw a form of art that I found appealing. I begin researching how I could make a similar version to what I saw. It looked like stencil art to me. It took me most of the weekend, but I figured out how to do a version of it that I like on my computer.
I find it to be a unique art form to add to my collection of animal portraits.
I am still perfecting the tones and textures. Always thinking outside of the box. 🙂
This morning, I watched a raven—a mighty bird in size and strength—being chased off by a much smaller blackbird. The raven didn’t fight back. It simply flew away, retreating from the smaller bird’s fierce determination to protect its territory. I captured the moment with my lens, but it lingered far longer in my heart.
It’s a scene I’ve watched many times in nature, but this time it stirred something deeper. I couldn’t help but think about what’s happening in the world—the constant unrest, the senseless killing in countries across the globe, the headlines filled with pain and violence. It’s relentless. And it’s easy to feel helpless, or worse, numb.
That raven reminded me of how even the strong must sometimes retreat. That courage isn’t always about fighting back—it’s about knowing when to move, when to rise above, and when to find refuge.
In the chaos, I find myself returning to one safe place: my faith in our Creator. The world may roar around us, but there is peace in His presence. There is order, purpose, and rest. It’s not always found in the news or the noise, but in the quiet of morning light, in the beating wings of birds, and in the whisper that reminds me I am held.
Maybe today, instead of trying to make sense of the madness, we simply lift our eyes. We look for beauty. We choose compassion. We stand firm in truth, but we also know when to fly—not in fear, but in wisdom. Just like that raven.
Summer Colors, some wildflowers in Yellow, they are growing in the driveway. My basket of flowers are doing really well so far.
But I have to say, my vegetable garden is not doing well at all. It has been a cold spring. With it being the middle of June, I don’t think I will see much produce before we leave.
Living next to a national forest, I’m always aware that wildlife—especially black bears—can show up anytime, especially in the spring when they’re hungry and looking for food.
At our place, bears usually come out of the woods from the same spot on the east side of our yard. They tend to follow the same paths year after year, especially if they’ve found food there before.
One morning around 6 a.m., I walked out to check on my garden, about 30 feet from our cabin. Like always, I glanced toward the woods as I wandered around. Our Jeep was parked between me and the forest that day, so I didn’t see anything at first. But once I walked past the Jeep and looked up—there she was. A mama bear. Standing just 50 feet away.
I froze and thought, “Oh crap.” I had no phone, no bear spray—nothing.
She started walking slowly, so I did too—heading calmly back toward the cabin. Every time she stopped and looked at me, I stopped. When she looked away and moved, I’d take a few more steps. We did this little dance three times.
Finally, I got within a few feet of the cabin. She looked right at me again, and I quickly slipped around the corner, onto the porch, and into the cabin. I grabbed my small .22 pistol—not to harm her, just to make some noise.
By the time I got back out, she was already running back into the woods. I fired a shot into the air, just to reinforce the message: this isn’t a good place to hang out.
I’d never want to hurt her or her cub, but we do share this land, and it’s important to set boundaries—for safety on both sides. I haven’t seen her since, and I’ve decided not to put out any bird food for the rest of the summer.
Video below of baby bear getting up on the table or click this link HERE, Baby Bear
Part 2 Mama Bear – the other day a bear came out of the woods. Just the one, looking around. Then to my surprise her cub comes wandering out of the woods as well.
Needless to say, I have put my one bird feeder away. Normally it takes a few days of the bears coming back to look for food. But once the source is gone. They go on their way looking else where for food.
I don’t want them hanging around, so the birds will have to move onto someone else feeders as well. But it is always nice to see them about once a year.
Southern Porches – I love porches on houses and down south they have some beautiful ones with giant pillars and inviting rocking chairs.
I saw this one as we were out driving around and took the photo through the window of the jeep.
I had to edit it just a bit to add some soft glowing porch lights in the lanterns and brighten the flowers and leaves. Sometimes our cameras don’t always pick up exactly what I see.
June is Here and some storm clouds rolling by. Interesting cloud shapes above, I was standing next to our Jeep looking at the clouds when I noticed the reflection in the hood of the jeep. Makes for an interesting shot. 🙂
Wildlife in my Backyard – the sandhill cranes are back. I would love to get a photo of them flying.
They have a pretty impressive wingspan like the blue herons do.
The white tailed deer still look pretty scruffy. Losing the winter coats. Walking amongst the dandelions. They could eat some of those dandelions, I sure would not mind.
The Collie is a graceful, intelligent, and loyal dog breed. It is known for its elegant appearance. It has a thick double coat and a distinctive long, narrow nose. There are two main varieties of Collies. The Rough Collie has long, flowing fur, like Lassie. The Smooth Collie has a shorter, dense coat.
Why the Collie Has a Long Nose:
The Collie’s long nose, or dolichocephalic head shape, enhances its function as a herding dog. This elongated snout improves airflow during sustained physical activity. It may also enhance vision, especially peripheral vision. This helps them keep an eye on livestock over wide fields. Additionally, the streamlined head contributes to the breed’s refined and alert expression, one of its most iconic features.
This dog is my nieces dog. A very smart dog as well. They are beautiful dogs for sure. Have a great weekend. 🙂
A hush of dawn, the world held still, Mist curls soft o’er water’s chill. Bare trees stretch high, then bow below, Reflections dance in morning’s glow.
Golden light through silence streams, A canvas brushed from painter’s dreams. Time forgets to move or race— Peace has found its quiet place.
Sunrise over the water, well we have left the deep south. We are on the road again. But, I still have some photo that I will be sharing from the past winter and from our travels as we head north.
Thank you for coming along with me, warmer days are ahead of us all. Spring is in the air.
I was kindly invited onto private land by a man whose quiet generosity lingered long after our meeting. He had an old dead tree with an Eagles nest in it, that I asked if I can photograph.
Later, I saw him sitting in the open garage light with another man—maybe a friend, maybe kin—sharing silence and conversation in equal measure.
An old Chevy rested beside them like a memory parked in the shadows. The scene felt like a frame from a forgotten black-and-white film—honest, unhurried, and full of story. I asked if I could capture it, and he nodded. I’m grateful he did.
There’s a quiet, profound beauty in the way a child connects with the world—pure, unfiltered, and full of wonder.
In this tender moment between a young girl and her lamb, we witness something rare: the innocence of trust and the silent language of love.
Her small hands gently cradle the lamb’s head, eyes locked in a gaze that says more than words ever could. Adults often rush past these moments, too busy to notice, but a child—she lingers, she feels, she sees.
And in doing so, she reminds us of a gentler way to be.
The Spirit of Creation – “In the dawn of all things, the Creator pressed spirit into flesh. Strength was shaped into form. The horse was set to run with the winds. It became a living echo of heaven’s first breath.”
“Not all masterpieces hang in galleries. Some run free beneath the endless sky.”
There are moments when the wind stills, and the world leans in.
High in the pines, where the sky folds softly into needles and light, I met a pair of great blue herons who seemed untouched by time.
I had seen them before from afar—graceful silhouettes skimming the water’s edge, sentinels of the marsh.
But that day, they flew right beside me. Not away. Not afraid. Just there, like I was part of the story. And in that moment, I was.
He came first, bold and brushed in indigo, his wings cutting wide through the blue. I call him Indigo Jack, a name that feels just wild enough to belong to a creature of wind and water. He carried a stick in his beak, not for himself, but for her. The one who waited.
Her name is Sora, meaning “sky,” and she wears it like a crown. There is a hush about her, a quiet knowing. She is moonlight in feathers. Not soft, but sacred.
Together, they built a nest—twig by twig, moment by moment. And I watched, breath held, as Jack passed a branch to Sora, their bills touching not in hunger, but in offering. A ritual older than memory.
Small Rookery – I found a small rookery by accident actually. My first time getting to see herons up close as they build their nest.
They were so busy finding sticks that they did not seem to even notice me. Most of the time herons fly off the minute one moves.
I took lots of photos and I will share my video on Friday, I decided to name two of them. Because the male looks like he has a crooked leg and the majority of my photos contained this bird flying back and forth to the nest with sticks.
It is not easy to tell the difference between the males and females. Except that research states the males usually brings the nesting material as the female builds it. So that is what I am going on.
King of the Sky – I photographed this eagle in Kentucky. We have some friends who knew about a place where we can park off the edge of the road. It’s not far from an eagle’s nest along a riverbank.
The nest is in a dead tree, in the middle of some farm land. But there is a nice size lake not to far away. These eagles come back to this nest every year. They had one eaglet this year as you can see it looking at the parent.
Nice to Have Sunshine Again and get to go on some hikes. We found some small waterfalls in the area we had to evacuate to. Would have never found these if that had not happened. A blessing in disguise.
Well, after looking into the shut down of this blog. I was on line with WordPress discussing what happened with my decision to shut this site down.
They automatically changed my site to the Premium plus group. This change put a snag in my travels. They tried to charge my card without my approval. As a result, it went to a fraud alert. So intern, I had to cancel my site so as I could use my card again, by the way, I was at a gas station when this all happened.
We also have been driving and trying to escape this huge rain storm that has been going throughout the Midwest. We have been right in the middle of it for 5 days now.
I have talked to WordPress. They did see that the auto renewal was not checked and did not know how this happened. But, would put my site back on my original plan, if I wanted to. So I chose to reopen it again. I have actually missed posting over the last few days. I have been doing this for 6 years now. I love sharing my photos with all of you.
Thank you for all the encouraging comments. A few of which stated that other folks are thinking of leaving WordPress blogging because of the price.
My suggestion is to call them first and ask what other options are there. They were actually very helpful. Definitely check your subscription yearly. To make sure they don’t automatically charge you for something you are not signed up for.
We are currently on the northern edge of this storm, the rain is easing off today. There is massive flooding all around us. We are thankful to this campground we are at now that let us arrive yesterday at the last moment as we had to evacuate another campground that was down by the Ohio river.
Thank you all, I do appreciate all your comments over the years and I hope to keep blogging and sharing photos for as long as I can.
SS United States – you may have heard about this old ship that was towed to Mobile Alabama. We were fortunate enough to be in an area where we got to see this historic old ship.
It says that it is bigger than the Titanic, and was quite the ship back in the day. But it is going to be sunk over by Destin Florida somewhere for a reef. It has to be cleaned first. They will be doing the cleaning in Mobile Al for about 6 to 9 months.
While I was taking these photos, a gentleman came up to us and said they flew here from Ireland just to see this ship.
Peaceful Scenes – The peaceful calm of a morning, with the soft light gently kissing the horizon, brings a sense of stillness and reflection. As the water mirrors the landscape, it invites us to pause, breathe, and appreciate the beauty of simplicity.
This quiet moment serves as a reminder that each new day holds endless possibilities. Embrace it with gratitude and an open heart, for today is a fresh opportunity to grow, create, and find joy in every step you take.
German Shepard – It is about his eyes. This dog is in the camp spot next to us. He is only one years old. Beautiful dog and very friendly, but he has a bark that will make you think twice about going up to him.
Busy With Dog Portraits, I have been so busy with doing puppy portraits and people portraits this winter. I just wanted to say thank you for all of you that stop by this blog page to look at my photos. I truly appreciate it, along with the comments that you leave.
I hope my photos bring a smile to your faces and maybe gives you a warm feeling to start your days.
I have not had time to read all of your blogs, but on occasion I do get to open up some of them to look at your photos and read your stories.
Thank you again.
I am learning a lot about using flash with my photography now. That is a new genre I have not worked with much. I really like it though. What a difference it can make with portraits.
Blue Angels – if you are ever at Panama beach, more than likely you will get to see the blue angels practicing from most places along the coast line.
This was actually their last day of practice when we got there. They did not fly down by where we were at. I just happened to look to the east and saw them flying by this building. They were pretty far away.
You can see the coast guard helicopter practicing most days as well when you are by the gulf coast.
Beach Fishing – this is just a random guy fishing on the beach. He ran over to his fishing pole when I quick got my camera out to see what he might have caught.
It looks like a pompano fish, even folks walking by had to stop and take a photo.
Fly Over by a Blue Heron, I finally got the shot. I have always wanted to get a shot of a heron flying directly above me, but normally they keep their distance from people.
Truly an amazing wingspan.
I have gotten the white pelican fly over. So I have two on my list. 🙂
Nesting Herons – We have found a location where a few Blue Herons are in the process of building nest. It is such a treat to get to see these beautiful birds so close. They swoop down right by me as they are looking for sticks to pick up and take to the tops of the trees as they build their nest.
Fun to watch, one takes the stick up to their mate, hands it to the one in the nest as he or she places where it needs to go.
Campground Cat – This cat has grown up here at this particular campground that we are at. People take care of it all year. She lives outdoors and the campground has boxes made for the cats to sleep in and get out of the bad weather.
All the cats here have been fixed and they get flee and tick medicine. They also catch rats and snakes. This cat caught a huge rat and left it by our camper. Good Kitty. 🙂
Patience – Herons are known for their incredible patience when hunting for fish. While standing on the dock, I watched one intently, camera in hand, waiting for the perfect moment to capture its strike.
I missed several shots before finally catching this one — a moment that felt almost like looking into a mirror during the editing process.
Low Angle Shots – Sometimes you just have to get to ground level to take the shot. I know it is hard to do especially as we get older. Getting back up is the hard part. 🙂
Dog Agility Event February – I have completed my editing for the 2nd dog agility event that we photographed. The folks will have plenty of photos to look through. I had to take a crash course on using Lightroom batch editing, that really helped.
I had used it years ago and never really looked into it again until this month. Now I have time to do some other things again. I look ahead to photographing next years event as well.
New Campground, well not new but being remodeled since the last hurricane. We had a great time here, I do recommend this park. They were under construction when we were there.
They are doing a great job at rebuilding the area and keeping the natural habitats available as well as building new construction.
Lots of beaches to walk, new campground spots with full hookups.
New sidewalks, roads and utility buildings.
But also keeping a lot of the natural landscapes for wildlife and trails for people to walk on.
Panama City Beach – We stayed at St Andrews State Park right down the beach from Panama City. There is a nice long pier that we stood on to take the photo of the beach. Most all of those buildings on the beach are rentals, condos and a couple of hotels.
We were there during the off season, so it was pretty quiet.
She is 18 This Year – I can’t hardly believe this little dog of our is this old. She is still going strong as well.
She eats a lot, sleeps alot, but still loves going for walks and is doing great.
Besides just losing most of her teeth, I feed her soft food. She can not see so well anymore. But we guide her every where with her lead rope when outside. Her world must be a big blur right now. But we always talk to her and hold her, which she loves being held.
I will enjoy every minute I have with her for as long as she is here.
Remember, her name is d-o-g. The letters not the word. 🙂
Older Snow Photos – my niece wanted some snow photo to print for herself. I had to dig into the archives to find some for her.
This first one is Lake Superior a few years ago, I think 5 years ago. Almost completely froze over. That doesn’t happen to often.
Road trip we took 3 years ago heading to Montana to visit my brother. I like this shot because the road looks like a dead end at the base of the mountain.
Challenging Obstacles – not challenging for the dogs but for the photographer yes. 🙂
This series was a little more difficult to make because the jumps were so close together. A lot of layers and brushing in the dogs on each layer.
The dogs seem to love the tunnels, they come out of there so quick. I had a few blurry shots because I tried to time the click of the shutter button just as they come out of the tunnel.
I could start the burst earlier, but that is more photos I have to go through and throw away. Mainly because I am photographing every dog that I can. I am talking about a couple thousand photos during a 3 day event.
Combine Multiple Photos in what I call series photography. I have never made a print like this and thought it would be a good way to showcase their dogs jumping all in one photo.
It has to be at the right angle and dogs that start the jump farther back from the poles.
Art in Snow Drifts – there is just something about snow drifts that I think is artistic. Mostly from the shadows they make. Giving a hint of blue tones in the dark areas against the sun lit areas.
Ears Are Flying High – Photographing a dog agility event has its challenges. But, viewing the photos after the event, is just so much fun. When it comes to photos like these, it is hard not to smile.
We visited this area for about a week. I have to say, it is one of the best spots for so many different things to do. Beaches, birds, boats and walking.
But, you will be seeing a few dog portraits coming up this week instead. As I was the photographer at a dog agility 3 day event in Mississippi. So I have been busy editing dog photos. The next couple of weeks I will be all over the map with my photos. 🙂
Nesting Herons at our next stop which is St Andrews State Park.
I definitely recommend this park as well. They are still remodeling the park since one of the last hurricanes. But they are doing a great job of it. The campsites are level and full hook ups. With all the amenities. Trails to walk on, lots of birds, deer and beaches.
We happened to be there when some Blue Herons were starting to make nest on this little island in the middle of a small lake.
You might want to book a spot ahead of time, it is a very busy park. People coming and going everyday.
Alligator Place – There are some really old alligators here, the tour guide was telling us.
The alligator in the back is a female who is at the top of the seniority list in this area. They said her front leg is jacked up from battling with other gators protecting her young.
I hope to be back to this park again one day. Maybe during migration. They said the bird count is double to what I saw today.
Birds and Alligators – so many birds. This by far is one of the best nature parks I have been to. The birds are everywhere. They are so used to the tour boats going up and down the river that they don’t fly away when you go by in the boats.
But the Alligators, the most I have ever seen in one spot. The tour guide says the birds eat the baby alligators and the alligators eat the birds. Some balance there, because there are plenty of both around.
I have had this spot marked on my maps for a couple of years to visit. We finally made it this past year. It is south of Tallahassee.
I highly recommend this area to visit.
Wakulla Springs is a place where history stretches back thousands of years, from early Native Americans who lived in shoreline villages to filmmakers who recognized the primeval quality of the park’s swamps and wildlife when they decided to film Tarzan’s Secret Treasure (1941) and Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954) here
Depth: The spring’s vent is 185 feet below the water’s surface.
Size: The spring pool is 315 feet in diameter.
Cave system: The spring connects to an underwater cave system with over 26 miles of passageways.
Temperature: The water is near-constant 69 degrees
One of America’s largest springs is protected within Silver Springs State Park. We took a boat ride down river to see all the birds and manatees enjoying the tranquility of this area.
There are plenty of manatees enjoying the warm water.
Pelican Close Up – this gorgeous bird just happened to be perched on a railing near some fisherman of course. Lots of folks were taking his photo as did I. When one has a chance to get this close to a wild bird, it is an amazing experience.
A walk in the park is a quiet escape, where nature gently whispers its secrets. You find yourself surrounded by the serenity of rustling leaves and birdsong. It’s a moment to disconnect from the chaos. Reconnect with the stillness within.
In this peaceful space, the world slows down, and the simple beauty of nature reminds us to breathe, listen, and find calm amidst the noise.
As we embrace the Christmas season, whether we celebrate with faith or simply with the spirit of kindness and connection, may this time bring hope, love, and joy to all.
It’s a moment to appreciate the small blessings, cherish time with loved ones, and find peace in the togetherness we share.
Have a wonderful day, and hopefully a long weekend filled with family and the joy of being together.
Christmas Eve signifies a time of anticipation and reflection. It’s the evening before Christmas, filled with moments of togetherness, quiet joy, and often a sense of peace as people prepare to celebrate the holiday.
For many, it symbolizes hope, love, and the spirit of giving, as families gather, traditions are observed, and the excitement for Christmas Day grows. It’s a time to pause, appreciate the moment, and share warmth with loved ones.
Light House Number Six, we went for a drive down to the St Marks National Wildlife Refuge area. Where we found Light House number 6, to add to my list.
This one was right on the water’s edge. So the best shot would be out in the water looking back. But, that wasn’t going to happen, unless it was low tide.
Tomorrow I will show the other 5 that I have photograph. There has actually been a couple more, but some of them one just can’t get to. They are in some pretty remote places or you could only see them by boat.
Sights From the Dock – Every morning I would walk down to the docks at this lake to check things out.
One morning this air boat was going back and forth way across the lake. From the photos he was spraying something from a hose it looks like. Not sure what he was doing. That air boat was sure loud.
There actually was not a lot of birds around here besides all those turkey vultures I mentioned earlier.
This little guy was fluttering around the low branches over the water.
One Egret was always spotted doing some fishing every morning. Just the one.
As day fades into night and night melts into day, the clouds tell a story of transformation. Golden sunsets paint the sky in rich hues, while soft blue sunrises bring a fresh promise of hope.
These serene, photogenic moments are reminders of the beauty that surrounds us—beauty only found when we step outside and immerse ourselves in the world’s natural wonders, right before our eyes.
Fog reflections at the lake. Beautiful mornings in Florida as the temperature begins to drop here in late November creating fog over the warmer lake waters. Makes for great reflective photography.
Imagine standing at the edge of a long, weathered dock, stretching out toward a still, calm lake. The water is smooth as glass. It reflects the pale, ethereal fog rolling across its surface. The fog obscures the view of the far shore. It feels as though the dock leads directly into the unknown.
It seems to extend into a misty abyss where the world disappears into the distance. Each step forward seems uncertain, as though the wooden planks beneath your feet might vanish into the haze.
But then, as you walk toward the end of the dock, the faint glow of sunrise begins to emerge through the fog. Soft, golden light breaks through the mist, casting a warm, steady glow across the scene. The dock ahead, covered in a delicate carpet of autumn leaves, feels inviting, grounded, offering a sense of safety amidst the uncertainty.
In that moment, the fog no longer seems frightening. Instead, it becomes a gentle reminder of the journey ahead, with each step feeling like a step closer to peace, to hope, and to the embrace of something greater.
The light at the end of the dock feels like the presence of the Lord, guiding you forward, giving you the strength to take that first step into the unknown, assured that you are walking into His comforting, unwavering safety.
Mirror Image – Amazing views this past week here at this lake just south of Tallahassee. The fog has been quite something to see on the lake.
I would wander down to the lake before the first light of dawn, standing on the dock in silence, awaiting the moment when the sun would gently pierce the mist.
In those quiet hours, the water lies as still as a forgotten dream, its surface so serene it feels as if it might hold the secrets of another realm.
It is in this ethereal light that the world seems to pause, and the lake becomes a portal—one could almost step onto its surface, walking effortlessly into the horizon, vanishing into a world beyond the edges of time.
New Bird at the Campground – A New Bird at the Campground – Out of nowhere, this stunning rooster appeared, strutting around our RV at this small campground. I thought I heard one crowing at 5 a.m. this morning, and sure enough, there he was.
He’s the most vibrant rooster I’ve ever seen, with feathers that looked incredibly soft and shiny as the sunlight danced across them.
I took lots of photos of him. He did not seem to mind. Probably gets this attention everyday from all the campers coming and going.
Interesting Reflections – I had a lovely morning walk to this beautiful little lake, where I was greeted by some fascinating cloud reflections on the water. As the sun began to rise, it slowly illuminated the sky, adding to the magic of the moment.
The cloud reflections were just the beginning of some truly beautiful mornings at the lake.
As the temperatures finally started to cool, foggy mornings became a regular sight. It turns out that fog rising from a calm autumn lake creates even more stunning reflections.
The image below captures this beauty— as the fog drifts across the water, it creates the illusion of another world unfolding on the horizon, with shapes and patterns reminiscent of a kaleidoscope.
The trees have mostly turned brown, but the lush grasses and lily pads are still clinging to their deep green hues, adding a touch of elegance to the otherwise gloomy lake view.
Turtles – I don’t take photos of turtles to often. Most of the time I just don’t see them or they are to far away and plop into the water the minute I move.
This one decided to just keep an eye on my from afar. So I was able to get a couple shots in.
This one below almost looks like the turtle is on top of an alligator or some kind of strange beast in the water. 🙂
Kestrel – American Kestrels occupy habitats ranging from deserts and grasslands to alpine meadows. You’re most likely to see them perching on telephone wires along roadsides, in open country with short vegetation and few trees.
My first sighting of one of these colorful birds.
My shutter speed on the camera wasn’t nearly fast enough to stop motion of this quick bird.
Florida Panhandle – there are lots of great campgrounds along the panhandle of Florida. I found this little campground next to a nice lake just south of Tallahassee.
It only had about a dozen spots, this photo below shows our quiet little nook in the campground.
A great lake for fishing as the boats came and went most every day. The fisherman said they catch mostly bass here and speckled perch.
The first morning walk down to the lake, I saw the largest group of turkey vultures I have ever seen.
They were all in the trees in the distance and as the sun was rising they all took off at once and headed north.
One morning this colorful boat was cruising across the lake and the sun was shinning on it just perfect. We started to leave and these folks pulled up to the dock, so we went up to the gentleman as he got out of the boat and showed him the photo.
Asked him if he would like a copy so we text it to right on the spot. He really liked the shot.
Tybee Island Lighthouse – I have photographed this light house before. There are just so many different ways to photograph it. It is in such a pretty location with lots of beach grass and sand piles.
I like this angle with the old building in front of it.
Now this is a different kind of shot. We were walking back to the parking lot and noticed two Grackles perched on this truck right in front of the light house. Well, they are such a colorful bird in the sunlight, it made for a fun photo.
Then I had to replace the truck with a branch, that was a lot of red. They were sitting all over this persons truck. 🙂
Our Last Stop we walked down a short path that opened up to a beautiful waterway. With one egret standing in the water. I love the blues and greens surrounding the bird.
The moon was visible during the day on this trip so I had to take a photo of it as well. This is straight out of the camera using a 6oo mm lens.
This is all for this nature preserve.
We crossed the bridge back over to Georgia.
The shipping yard looked empty when we looked down river. No container ships at all in the water.
I will leave you with a couple of photos of Ships I have photographed in different places. Have a great weekend.
Road Through the Preserve – At every turn there is something to see. From the beautiful moss covered trees to birds perched on logs drying their feathers.
Take the time to find out if there are any nature preserves in your area. Makes for a fun drive if nothing else.
Birds in the Nature Preserve – Just a few of the birds I saw while driving around the nature preserve. A lot of the usual ones like the herons and a few ducks now and than. We are a little late for migration time so there were not as many birds as earlier in the year I am sure.
Most of them were quite far away from where we were standing. I found this photo below interesting as the alligator swam past the Anhinga bird perched on the dead tree.
We did find at one end of the lake a lot of bird feathers. The alligators do eat birds.
Looks like this bird blind got hit by a storm and ripped the roof right off of it. Closed for the season.
Next to the Nature Park, it is next to the Savannah river, right off from the North Atlantic Ocean. So as one looks towards the left anywhere from within in the park. You will see the Georgia Ports Authority Shipping Container Yards.
Literally yards and yards of shipping containers. But, one will see places like this all along the coast. I forgot about them as we drove deeper into the preserve and started seeing birds.
I saw this very interesting lone tree along one of the waterways. I had to edit it a bit, by cutting out the shipping containers in the background.
Gus the Alligator – There was a giant alligator named Gus who lived in the murky swamp, notorious for his immense size. He was enormous. When he slid into the water, a wave formed. It could knock over a tree. Most people thought Gus was slow because he spent most of his time floating in the swamp. He looked like a floating log, with eyes barely visible above the surface.
One day, a curious human wandered along the edge of the swamp, casually walking by with a sandwich in hand. Gus watched from the water, thinking, Ah, a snack walks by. Perfect. I’ll just stay here and wait…
But as the human strolled closer, Gus got an idea. He was tired of people thinking he was slow. They always see me in the water, Gus thought. They never see me on land.
With a sudden burst of speed, Gus shot out of the water like a torpedo, launching himself onto the shore with a thud that shook the trees. The human turned just in time to see a 20-foot alligator charging at him, jaws wide open.
The human, completely startled, froze. Gus, with his massive legs now moving surprisingly fast on land, was in full sprint mode, his tail swinging like a wrecking ball. He zoomed past the human in a blur, kicking up mud and leaves as he raced by, and disappeared into the trees.
The human blinked, looking around. “Wait, what just happened?”
From the bushes, Gus’s voice echoed, “Don’t ever underestimate an alligator with a good sprint workout, buddy. I’m faster than your Wi-Fi connection!”
Yesterday’s Spoon bills were so far away, I could not get a decent photo of them. But today we were driving along a dirt road and all of a sudden I looked down this small ditch of water and there was one spoonbill.
So I got a better look at one and now I am happy. 🙂
I finally spotted two new bird species and one I’ve been hoping to see for years at the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge!
Whenever I’m traveling, I always pull up Google Maps to check for nearby wildlife areas. In the Southeast, especially along the coast, there are tons of them, thanks to the vast marshlands.
Lately, I’ve been discovering more wildlife refuge areas that let you drive through the landscape. These parks have roads winding through the marshes, giving you deeper access to the area and better chances of spotting wildlife.
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge is one of those special places!
We didn’t spot many bird species as we drove through the area, but I did add two new ones to my list.
My first exciting sighting was a wood stork. They were distant, but I still got a good look with my binoculars.
Then, as we walked down a narrow trail alongside a waterway, a hint of pink caught my eye. Sure enough, there they were!
The spoon bill bird. I finally got to see them. A pink bird. Quite amazing. So different from all the other birds. We are in South Carolina where I finally got to see these. I thought I would have to go to Florida to see them.
Georgia – We made it to Georgia. Some road construction along the way really shows how much clay they have in this part of the country. Amazing how the world is made up of so many soil types and landscapes that go with them.
I heard a comic talking about the earth, something like this below.
Okay, folks, let’s take a moment to appreciate just how hilariously absurd our lives are! Here we are, trudging through our daily grind—stuck in traffic, scrolling through cat memes, and obsessing over whether we should order pizza or sushi for dinner. Meanwhile, we’re standing on a giant spinning rock, hurtling through the cosmos at a dizzying 67,000 miles per hour!
Seriously, 67,000 miles per hour! That’s faster than your last attempt to get out of a family dinner! And we’re doing all this while orbiting a massive ball of fire that’s about 93 million miles away. I mean, come on, talk about a cosmic game of dodgeball!
Free Overnight Parking – I keep certain places marked on my maps so I can find them easy if I ever need to. This is one of those spots.
A casino in Alabama with free parking for RVs. It is well lit and security cameras everywhere. A good place to stop when you need to take a break.
We got there just before sunset and as you can see, the hotel part of the casino is all glass. I looked out our window and the building was lit up like a giant outdoor movie screen. So I had to go out and snap a couple of photos.
Than the moon was rising over the building, I only used the camera on the phone, so this is the best it could do.
We had a good nights sleep and hit the road the next morning.
Some Fall Colors , We left a little earlier than usual this year. So we did not get to see much for fall colors. As we travel south, it seems like things are just turning brown. It is very dry through out the mid west.
The winding path through the woods is shrouded in an enchanting mystery, where sunlight dances through the leaves, casting playful shadows on the forest floor.
As you follow the path, the air thickens with the scent of pine and earth, and the world outside fades away.
November in Mississippi – The word “Mississippi” comes from the Ojibwe (Chippewa) word “misi-ziibi,” which means “great river.” It reflects the significance of the Mississippi River to the Native American tribes in the region. The name was adopted by French explorers in the 17th century and has remained ever since
The photos capture the serene backwaters of a campground we visited, accessible by a winding trail. The grass here is as vibrantly green as it appears in the images.
Just a Little Hiccup – Meaning as one travels the highways, one can meet up with debris falling from other vehicles. Things that can hit your vehicles windows and possibly creating chips in the glass.
We have had a few chips in the big RV window over the years. Chips that can be easily fixed by trained technicians.
But, not this one. I am not sure what hit us, but it was big and loud. I know I jumped when the window cracked. It was a big truck of some kind that went past us and then BAM. A nice fish eye in the window of the RV.
Come to find out, not many people like to replace RV windows these days. Especially when traveling. We were not able to find someone to fix the glass until we get down to Georgia. We hoped the glass wouldn’t crack more as we traveled on all the bumpy roads before then.
Husband did some research. He found out that putting super glue over the area on the outside might help keep it from getting worse. So he did that.
We made it to Georgia with no further damage.
Thanks to the internet, we found a team of guys that have their own business and all they do is replace windshields on RV and Semi Trucks.
Great guys and they did a fantastic job. It was a hard job, they said this glass weighed over 200 lbs. So they needed 3 to set the window in place. It takes about a week to cure and they did it right on site where we were camping.
So I put the cat in the bathroom and sat outside with the dogs and watched them do their thing. I will be keeping their phone number just in case.
Leaving Iowa for the Winter – I do love being in Iowa, the farm land, family and the wonderful people we always meet in Iowa. I am proud to call it my home state, where I grew up and went to high school.
Bridge Across the Cedar River – One of my favorite spots to visit in a small town in Iowa. This is a walking bridge for people to cross the river. Makes for a great landscape photo.
Birds – Starting to see some birds other than the blue jays from home.
First the Double Crested Cormorant known for those striking blue eyes. One of these days I would like to get a close up photo of this birds eye. So unique.
The Little Killdeer bird. Always fun to see in the spring time.
But very fast birds, it was very hard to get a shot of this one flying.
This photo below was from last spring, just cute as is. Two goslings.
Reflections of Divine Guidance -A Journey Through Creation
The Earth from a Drone
In this image, one might see the heavens and the earth as they coexist, reminiscent of Genesis 1:1-2, where God created the heavens and the earth. The vastness of space above symbolizes God’s divine realm, while the earth represents His creation.
Just as the drone captures a broader perspective, so too does Scripture remind us that God’s ways are higher than our ways, inviting us to consider the divine plan that spans beyond our immediate view.
Sunlight and Mist
This scene evokes Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” The mist represents the uncertainties of life, with the trees—akin to lost souls—yearning for direction.
Yet, the penetrating sunlight symbolizes God’s guidance and grace, illuminating the way through the darkness of doubt and confusion.
The Calm Lake
In the tranquil lake, we find a reflection reminiscent of James 1:23-24. Here, the Word of God serves as a mirror and invites introspection. The still waters echo Psalm 23:2, where God leads us beside still waters, restoring our souls.
This serene setting is a place for contemplation. It encourages us to reflect on our journey and the peace from resting in God’s presence. Philippians 4:7 notes that the peace of God guards our hearts and minds.
These scenes collectively invite us to contemplate our relationship with the Creator, our path in life, and the peace found in His presence.
Cat vs Dog – I have taken lots of pet photos over the years. Including my own pets. My dog Chloee has a thing about the camera, usually when I point it at her she turns around. Or she gets close trying to sniff the camera.
Which I think makes for fun photos, close up of a dogs nose.
But, cats can be just as funny at times. I took this photo below with a wide angle lens on a phone camera. It made her ear closest to the camera look cartoonist big.
Kit Kit enjoying the outdoors video below or click HERE
So then I took some photo up close to the cats fur. Quite the different colors when you look real close.
I am guessing it is the oils in the fur and the light shinning on it.
After pestering my cat with taking her photo over and over. She then gives me this look telling me that is enough. 🙂
Oh but it is never enough for me. 🙂 there will be more.
Glowing Eyes Cat Digital Art by Sandra J’s Photography
Kit Kit the Cat – when I don’t have a lot of things to photograph, my cat gets her picture taken a lot. I mean a lot. Mainly because she has so much more patience than the dogs. She will sit perfectly still, which makes for much better photos.
When the temperature starts to drop. I find her sitting like this. She wraps her tail around her little paws trying to keep them warm.
A cats tail seems to have a mind of its own and is quite flexible compared to a dogs.
Kit Kit and Red Light Game Video below or click HERE
Life often teaches us in the most unexpected ways, and sometimes, it takes the simplest moments to reveal profound truths. Recently, I experienced a beautiful metaphor for resilience and grace. I want to share this lesson from a little seed I planted and then forgot.
A few months ago, I planted a few sunflower seeds. I nurtured it for a while, watering and tending to it with hope and excitement. But as time went on, I grew disheartened. The seed showed no signs of life, and eventually, my attention waned. I stopped watering it, convinced that it had failed. I gave up on it completely.
Imagine my surprise when I returned to the garden weeks later. There, midst the weeds and the remnants of my neglect, stood a stunning flower, vibrant and full of life. The colors were brilliant, and its presence was nothing short of miraculous. How could something I had abandoned flourish in my absence?
In that moment, I couldn’t help but reflect on how similar this is to our own lives and faith journeys. We often plant seeds of hope, love, and dreams. However, we sometimes see them wither due to doubt. Despair or the daily grind can also cause them to wither.
We find ourselves overwhelmed, wondering if anything we’ve nurtured will ever bloom. Just like my neglected seed, we feel like our efforts have gone unnoticed, forgotten in the chaos of life.
This experience with the flower taught me a powerful truth. Even when we give up, God is still at work. There are times we feel our prayers are unanswered. We believe our efforts are fruitless. But, like that seed, growth often occurs beneath the surface. It remains unseen and unfelt.
God’s timing is perfect, and His plans are often beyond our comprehension. My flower emerged when I least expected it. Similarly, we find that our moments of struggle and doubt can lead to unexpected beauty. Sometimes, what seems like an end is merely a pause, allowing God to work in ways we can’t imagine.
As Dawn Breaks, the world begins to stir. From the vantage point of an old bridge, the river below lays perfectly still, a sheet of glass reflecting the sky above.
The water is a mirror, capturing fluffy clouds drifting lazily across the horizon. It’s a moment where time seems to pause, inviting deep breaths and quiet contemplation.
Standing on the bridge, the view is breathtaking. The river winds gracefully through the landscape, flanked by trees adorned in the vibrant greens of late summer.
The silence is soothing. It is broken only by the occasional rustle of a breeze. There is also the soft splash of a fish breaking the surface.
In this serene setting, worries drift away like the clouds above. Here, on this bridge, amidst the stillness, one can find clarity and tranquility. It’s a perfect morning, a fleeting glimpse of nature’s serenity, reminding us of the beauty that exists in quiet moments.
First Snow Up North, I wrote on my calendar that the first snow in 2023 was in November. But it isn’t anything that is going to collect on the ground, yet.
John Deere the company would not have been possible without the determination of John Deere the man. From the time he created the first steel plow in 1837, Deere worked hard. He was committed to helping farmers handle their daily tasks with ease.
Demand for these plows increased. Deere moved the business from Grand Detour to Moline, IL in 1848. He chose this new location due to the power and transportation benefits it offered.
Iowa isn’t just farmland, it is made up of beautiful rolling hills and lots of state parks and lakes.
Harvesting Beans in Iowa. Harvest was in full swing when we were in Iowa, it is hard to get a photo of combines in the field without some windmills in the background.
Husband has a quick mind for coming up with funny statements. He saw this photo and said, ” So that is how they dry beans in Iowa.” Get it, the big turbines, they are spinning and drying the bean fields. :0 Ha, Love his sense of humor.
I took these photos with a cell phone camera, so the windmills look kind of funny when the camera does not have a fast enough shutter speed.
Standard Long Hair Collie. Such a beautiful and unique looking dog. This dog is one of the smartest dogs I have been around. Very good dog around the family and he actually won grand champion at the dog show that my nieces daughter took him to.
Below is a photo of how much he has changed since his puppy picture from last year.
Beautiful Morning at one of the campgrounds as we head south. It is very dry here in Iowa, as most areas in the mid-west. Harvest season is in full motion. The combines are out everywhere. They are working on the bean fields first and then moving to the corn fields.
Finally some cool nights this month, long time coming I say. I like the evenings when they are in the 50’s.
Last of the Summer Flowers full of color. Bees and hummingbirds were enjoying them all month, but we have had a couple of frost already. So they are about done now.
Thanks to my husband, I had the best gardening year ever. Below is a photo of my old garden area.
This summer he built this for me. So much easier to work in and keep.
Who knew dill plants can grow as tall as corn. When I finally pulled them out they were almost 6 feet long.
This plant below is Eggplant. I have never grown them before. It is very interesting to watch this plant grow. But I have to start them much earlier in the season. They never produced completely because they take over 100 days to mature. There are dozens of fruit on each plant as well. Next year I will try again.
Overall it was a very productive garden. We were picking vegetables everyday, adding them to our meals. Such a delight to grow your own food. Can’t wait until spring.
We Learn From Nature. Look at this amazing dragon fly up close.
Awhile ago I mentioned something interesting. Engineers observed birds in flight to figure out the design of airplanes. Feathers on bird wings have different purposes that help them land and take off.
Well, I am going out on a limb here. I am thinking they may have gotten the design of pilots helmets from these little guys. Look at the next few photos and you will see what I mean. As I keep zooming in closer to the eyes of this one.
On pine tree needles, dew drops lie, In soft, glistening light beneath the sky. Each pearl of dawn, so pure and bright, Reflects the grace of morning light.
In their shimmer, a silent prayer, A testament to love and care. A whisper of our Savior’s grace, In nature’s touch, we see His face.
Graceful Pelican Landing A Mesmerizing Display of Nature’s Precision
Witnessing a white pelican land on water is a mesmerizing spectacle of nature’s artistry and precision. As the pelican descends, its majestic wings spread wide, creating a grand, sweeping arc against the sky. The powerful beats of its wings gradually soften, guiding the bird into a graceful and controlled descent
The air currents interact with the pelican’s wings. This creates a delicate balance. It allows the bird to approach the water with both elegance and precision.
The pelican in the water, glances to its right, clearly uncertain about the landing abilities of the other bird.
As the pelican touches down, the air currents from its landing ruffle the feathers of the second pelican nearby.
This graceful landing is marked by the pelican’s aerodynamic glide. It skillfully uses its feet as natural skis. This is a testament to the remarkable interplay of power and poise in nature.
It’s a moment where every element—from the sweeping wingspan to the delicate touch on the water—comes together. It results in a harmonious show of beauty and precision.
The white pelican is a majestic marvel of nature, embodying a blend of grace, power, and beauty in its wingspan. As it spreads its wings, the sheer expanse is nothing short of breathtaking. With a wingspan that can reach up to nine feet, the white pelican commands the sky. Its presence is almost regal.
The beauty of the white pelican’s wingspan is remarkable. The contrast of its pristine white feathers against the vast sky accentuates this beauty even more.
As sunlight filters through the feathers, they can shimmer with a soft, iridescent glow. When the pelican soars, it casts a striking silhouette against the horizon. Its wings form a dramatic, sweeping arc. This captures the eye.
Cooper’s Hawk – here it is. A small hawk, but he can move. He was chasing the blue jays in and out of the trees so fast. It was hard to get a photo of it.
He would chase one and then it would escape through the trees. It would wait for one to move and at it again.
The blue jays are just as fast and can zip in and out of the tree branches as well.
I never did see the hawk catch one bird. I did see the blue jays chase it off many times. But it would come back a few days later and try again.
Nature taking its course. Oh, and when the blue jays are warning everyone around that the hawk is here. All the bird species take cover. The chickadees stay hidden until the coast is clear.
Little Known Fact about the Blue Jays, or maybe others do know this about this colorful bird.
They work together when danger is close by. I have heard others say that blue jays are a pest. Mainly because they kind of hog the bird feeders. Well, they do that, yes. I have seen them, but other birds can be pushy as well, like the grackles and morning doves.
I saw for the first time a Coopers Hawk hanging around my bird feeders this year. It just doesn’t seem right that a bird will eat another bird. Coopers hawks do just that.
We knew when the hawk was in the area because all the blue jays give out warning calls. All of a sudden the hawk is flying after one, as the blue jay gets away. All the blue jays start chasing the hawk.
I will have photos of that tomorrow. I was pretty impressed how these blue jays stuck together to try and chase it off. More tomorrow.
There are 4 species of nuthatches found in North America. They are the red-breasted nuthatch, the white-breasted nuthatch, the brown-headed nuthatch, and the pygmy nuthatch.
While they have distinct physical features, these tree-climbing birds share habitat, food, nesting, and foraging behaviors in common.
I photographed two of them this fall here at my place. The white breasted and the red one.
Plus I included some more Chickadee photos. I can’t resist taking their photos when they practically come right up to me.
5 Ds of Dodge Ball – Dodge, duck, dip, dive and dodge
These blue jays have the moves of the old Dodge Ball Game. Do you remember that game. I do, we played it in gym class. I don’t think they play that one anymore.
I just bought that old movie Dodge Ball, it is a classic for me.
Go Pro Photos. I was experimenting with the go pro camera at my bird feeding table last week. I normally just use the camera for videos. But I thought I would try the photo menus and see what happens.
It is not bad if the subject isn’t moving to much. Mainly because you can not control the shutter speed when you have the camera running on auto.
There is a little blur with wing movement, which I knew would happen. A fun little experiment though.
The Horse Show. My favorite class to watch at horse shows is the halter class. Where they mostly just show the composition of the horse compared to the others in the class.
The judge is in the pink shirt heading over to this 4 H girl showing her horse. I think her horse has done this a few times. Its eyes are closed, taking a nap I believe. 🙂
This next one has a bit more energy. But the girl has no problem with her horse and lets him warm up a bit before the class.
Short video below of the horse and riders at the beginning of the show carrying the flags.
Glowing Spots – I love this shot, as if this fawns white fur is glowing in the morning light. The sun is just coming up over the trees, and with a faster shutter speed. The white really stands out as the background is darker.
Discovering the New Bird Sanctuary near Paducah KN. I just looked at the map and saw a green area not far from us. So we took a drive to see what it was.
This area had a nice size man made lake with a road that you can drive all around it. Plenty of habitat for a lot of birds and people out fishing on the lake as well.
We discovered this new bird walking along the shore line.
Dozens of Egrets in the trees and on land. I will definitely be visiting this park again to see more birds.
Horses at the Fair. I have a couple more photos to share. They are from my visit to the small town fair in Iowa. I went to the fair recently.
I showed horses in my younger days. It was so much fun getting together with other like-minded people. We enjoyed a day or two of hanging around with some very beautiful horses.
They spent some time working on this horses mane below. Lots of rubber bands. Very pretty.
Just One Shot is all I get of these sand hill cranes. They landed in the field next to our place. You can hear them easily in the mornings, as they make their bird calls.
This particular morning they flew right over my head and landed the next field over. I went out there to get a photo of them and only snapped this one before they took off. They were quite far away as well.
I never realized they have red eyes like the black swans until I looked at this photo.
Next Generation. I am so excited, my oldest niece is interested in photography. I have been helping her learn how to use a DSLR camera and the camera on her phone. But she wants to learn with a camera which is so exciting to me.
I love talking photography and teaching her everything I know. Photography is fun and gets you to slow down a bit. It helps you look at everything around you more closely.
Even though I live 8 hours away from her, with today’s technology, she sends me photos that she takes. I give her advice on how to change the composition to make an eye catching photo. She likes to enter her photos into the fair in her town.
Take for example this photo below, She took this with her phone and sent it to me. As she was standing there by the river and it was getting close to sunset.
So I had just a couple of suggestions for her. First there is too much in the foreground with that cement pad there. I can tell the river curves to the left in front of her. The sun is dropping off to the right in the background.
I text her back. I said to go right down to the edge of the river. She needed to turn her cell phone upside down so that the camera was right at the water’s edge. Then put the camera on its widest angle, which is .6 with a Samsung. She said ok and give her a minute and she will try it.
This is what she sent me next. So much better. I love the clouds reflecting in the water and the trees on both sides. By the time she took the shot, the sun was adding a bit of color.
It looks like she is in the water and the viewer has a leading line to look down the river.
I edited it just a bit to straighten up the horizon and sent it back. Amazing that she and I can do this all through texting.
I gave her my old DSLR bridge camera that she will learn from. We will be working with that this fall when I get down there.
I took this photo on drift wood beach in Georgia, An example of using a wide angle lens. With the right landscape, I love how it elongates the scene. It draws the eye down to that tree in the middle of the shot.
When They Look right at you. I love shots like this. When it looks like I have made eye contact with the animals I photograph. As if the animal is posing just for the shot.
I also love the fact that this horses main is framing its face. Definitely going into my favorite folder and I am printing this one.
This one is just the opposite, they are all looking at something down the street. 🙂 Well, except for two who look like they are napping.
Blue Top Hat. Molting seems to be done with the blue jays. They have their crown of blue feathers back. There are always plenty of them to photograph this time of year.
I took this video below with my phone camera through a window. It is not the clearest video. I saw mother and fawn playing in a water puddle out in the yard.
On The Road Again. That is all for Paducah Kentucky, I am sure we will be back there. I do have a couple of new spots we are going to camp at this winter. So much to see, nature is calling.
The Old 1518. A Mikado steam engine, the last “Iron Horse” used by the I.C.R.R., serves as a memorial to the passage of the Steam Age.
Located on Water Street in Historic Downtown, the memorial and marker are dedicated to the Illinois Central Railroad Company. They emphasize the importance of the railroad to Paducah’s history and commerce.
I am truly fascinated with the old steam locomotives. The power of them, the sound and the engineering itself.
There is one locomotive that I would love to see one day, it is the Big Boy 4014. It does tour the states, the last couple of years it sat still during the covid. But this year it is back on tour.
I found the schedule. It is going through Iowa. I think it is next week. I just can’t make it there right now.
A Summer’s Warmth. Gently recedes, autumn steps in with its own distinct charm. It drapes the world in a stunning tapestry of golden hues.
There’s a certain magic in this season. Nature’s palette shifts from the vibrant greens of summer to a more mellow, sunlit symphony of golds, ambers, and ochres.
The leaves have started to turn in my neck of the woods.
CN’s Autonomous Track Inspection. CN’s ATIP is a fleet of fully automated rail cars. They use wireless communications to test and check real-time geometric track measurements. They also conduct track asset condition assessments without interrupting normal railroad operations.
With its ATIP cars powered by solar panels and a generator, CN achieves 24/7/365 track inspections. The cars travel at revenue service track speed. These completely self-sustaining and autonomous test platforms make it possible.
I had no idea what this train car was until I looked it up. We were sitting at a park and I looked up and it was crossing this bridge. I just assumed it was a passenger rail car but I noticed it did not have an engine.
Exploring the National Quilt Museum. A Visual Delight
Well, I never knew there was a museum for quilts. But a museum it should be because the quilts were amazing. I have never seen anything like them.
This museum is in Paducah Kentucky. Each quilt has a card next to it with a bar code. You can scan it and read all about the making of the quilt. You can see how long it took to make and where it was from.
This one below is my favorite quilt, the picture does not do it justice. It has hundreds of sequence on it that just sparkle no matter what angle you view the quilt at.
I am not a quilt maker, I do not have the patience for that at all. I truly enjoyed looking at these as did my husband. Amazing what people can make.
Murals Depicting Real Time. The painter picked photographs to paint on the wall of actual scenes from back in the day in Paducah Kentucky. You get to walk along the wall and see how the area changed from his murals.
Days Are Getting Shorter – As I sit at my computer on this serene early morning, I watch the daylight gradually stretch its arrival, casting a gentle glow through my window. I wait patiently, eager to see the birds make their appearance at the feeders.
The blue jays have arrived, bringing their young along to learn the art of foraging. The fledglings, fluttering around with eagerness, receive gentle guidance from their parents as they practice eating on their own.
I have been taking photos of these colorful birds, trying to get shots of them in flights to see their colorful feathers.
As most of you have probably heard, AI is here to stay and it is making an impact on our photography world as well.
Yes, I have been dabbling into the art of AI with my photos as I have extra time these days. Exploring this new technology to make greeting cards for the upcoming seasons apon us.
I only use photoshop and they have incorporated a new AI into its program this month. I quite enjoy using it and creating art by using my photos as the generative reference images.
I have two samples below showing the difference between using your own reference photos and using text to image program.
This first photo below I used my blue jay photos to make this wintery greeting card. It does pretty well I think. I also list on all of my work when it is AI generated or not and how I made the piece.
Now this print below is using the text to image system. Where you describe what you want the photo to look like. I do not prefer this type of imagery. But I can see where some folks might like to use this, for creating children’s books or something like that.
There is a place for art using this new technology I believe, it does not replace photography at all, but it is definitely here to stay and being used throughout industries of all kinds, from advertising to creating movies.
Right now I can still tell the difference between AI and Real, but that may change as the software keeps improving.
I believe there will always be a place for genuine photographs because computers can’t replicate the human touch. While technology can imitate creativity, it can never replace the authentic essence of human expression.
Night Sky Phenomena – I cannot explain these photos as all. I took some photos in the middle of last week as I noticed the night sky was clear and the stars were shinning bright.
I set my camera up for time lapse again, I then went inside and fell asleep for a couple of hours. Woke up and went outside to retrieve my camera and put the SD card in my computer and this is what I saw.
There were a few shooting stars mostly going south west. This light appears on the left side of the shot and it is moving NE with the two lights in the middle of the larger lights. All three were moving together north.
It took 10 consecutive shots as the light moved from the tree line and then went out of frame. It held the same shape the entire distance, Now I don’t know what it was, but my imagination says it could be angel wings, which is a hopeful thought for me. These lights are extremely large as well.
I have photographed many stars over the years and have never seen anything like this. I will never know probably what it is, but I know what I would like it to be. 🙂
Perseid Meteor Shower – you may have heard that last weekend was the highlight of the Perseid Meteor shower. I had my camera gear ready and we had a clear night for the even last Sunday.
I got up around 2 am and looked out the window first and noticed the sky seemed kind of bright for viewing stars. I went outside and low and behold the Northern lights were dancing across the sky as well, that is why it was brighter than normal.
Bad news, I saw a few shooting stars but not as many as they said there were because of the northern lights where I live.
This photo below shows the northern lights plus I stacked about 100 photos to show you the star trails. I had my camera set to time lapse photos, 15 sec shutter speed, WB 4500K, ISO 4000, F2.8 with a wide- angle lens.
This next photo, I was able to capture just a bit of the milky way with the northern lights, this photo was taken with a small little Go Pro Camera. Set to time lapse photos.
I did notice that these photos facing SW showed more pink and green lights
Whereas this photo below, I was facing north and the lights were greener and more vibrant. I have a lot of trees lining my driveway, so I had to walk down the driveway, which is very dark and kind of spooky because there are a lot of wolves, bears, fox, and coyotes, oh my, 🙂
So, I walked down the driveway, took 2 photos quick and hurried back to the cabin. But, not one photo with a shooting star. Maybe next time.
She is Sneaky this little fawn, she is just starting to come out of the woods with mom in this first photo, the minute I come out with the camera she high tails it back to the woods.
Everyday she is getting more brave to not run when she sees me, she is curious and mom keeps a close eye on her.
The Infinity Mirror – as the tour guide took us upstairs and by the way, the railing on this staircase is so short. Because people were shorter back then. It was only about 3 ft tall, my husband is 6’3″ and the railing came up just above his knee. The tour guide told us that because a lot of people trip on the stairs being the railing is misleading for support.
A beautiful hallway that holds a remake of the infinity mirror.
Which is 2 mirrors right across from each other so it goes on forever.
So this is it for this tour, if you are ever crossing the border by Paducah Kentucky, make sure to stop at this welcome center. They still have lots of pretty flowers growing all around the home as well. Wonderful place to take a break on your journey.
Some People Returned Items – some of the stolen items were returned when they found out they were restoring this home. A lot of it was also just donated that was not original to the home. But it fit the time period and looks amazing in there now.
There are constant repairs that need to be done, like cracks in the walls and ceilings. But overall they did an amazing job restoring this old place.
Kentucky Rest Area – This week I am going to show you a place that I have wanted to stop at for years and we finally did a few months ago. We drove by it so many times, it is a rest area in Kentucky, probably one of the best rest areas I have ever stopped at.
This unique historical rest area/welcome center is, Whitehaven. It is a Victorian home built in the 1860’s and has quite the story as to how it became a rest area.
This home is steeped in KY history from former Vice President Alben Barkley to many influential figures in the formation of Kentucky’s history.
This mansion was once destined to be destroyed, but was saved by the KY Transportation Cabinet.
The Sly Fox – I photographed this beautiful animal on the gulf coast. I don’t see fox very often, they are around where I live, but never see them during the day. I did catch one on my trail camera last week passing by.
Beautiful animals, have a wonderful weekend.
This is AI’s version of my fox photo painted. I kind of like it. In any of my digital work, I always list it as digital. I am a photographer before being a digital artist. But I always use photos I take to get this look with the help of technology.
Heading Out to Sea – what a job this must be. Staying out on the water for days or weeks. I know I could not do it. I am pretty sure I would get sea sick. I like to boat, but I have never been on really big boats or big waves.
Treasures on the Gulf Coast – The Gulf Coast is a treasure trove of vibrant seascapes, and the shrimp boats there add a special splash of color to the scene.
Picture a cluster of these boats lined up along the dock or gently bobbing on the water, each one a canvas of bold hues. Bright blues, vivid reds, sunny yellows, and deep greens paint a lively mosaic against the backdrop of the shimmering Gulf.
I love seeing the shrimp boats on the water when we visit the coast down south. I photographed these boats at Bayou La Batre in LA when we were there.
A Dazzling Jewel – The male cardinal’s brilliant red plumage is nothing short of breathtaking, resembling a vivid splash of crimson against the soft green foliage backdrop. His striking color radiates with an almost fiery intensity, making him a dazzling jewel amidst the muted tones of his surroundings.
The Eye of a Cat, this is my cat. Kit Kit is her name. I sit at my dinning room table to do all my computer work and this table is right by a nice large window. I like to watch the birds outdoors as I am doing my work.
My cat loves to sit right next to my computer, sometimes looking out the window and if it is a little cooler in the house. She likes to curl up on the transformer box that I use to charge the computer. It is like her own little warming station.
Anyway, on this day she was looking out the window and I was looking at her eyes. An amazing thing to see up close, a cats eye. So I had to take a few photos close up. I had my phone camera right next to her face and she just sat there perfectly still. Liking the attention.
The Storm Clouds Gather, dark and dense, A tumult roars, the heavens tense, Lightning cracks the twilight’s veil, A furious dance, a tempest’s wail.
The sky ignites with electric fire, Each flash a fierce, consuming pyre, Thunder’s voice, a booming cry, Echoes through the bruised night sky.
Yet in the chaos, midst the rage, A fleeting light begins to wage, As torrents drench the world below, A secret promise starts to show.
The storm, though wild, begins to fade, Its fierce embrace now softly swayed, And through the tears of shattered rain, A ribbon forms, a hopeful chain.
Colors break through, soft and bright, A spectral arc against the night, A rainbow blooms, a quiet cheer, A bridge of peace in storm’s austere.
Nature’s Fury: The Dramatic Beauty of Shelf Clouds
Last month brought some stormy weather where I live, two shelf clouds this year so far. They move very fast being pushed by some horrific winds. The clouds roll at you in so many different shapes.
The first one here, it was a big shelf cloud with some cloud movements like nothing I have ever seen. Video Below.
Video Below; or click this title here to see the video on my You Tube Channel, Natures Fury
The Second Shelf cloud storm was more straight lined right across, rolling like pie dough in a tight line. Both with winds and rain that almost made me run back into the house. 🙂
The Old Windmill – In the 18th century, the Great Plains were considered unfit for cultivation. The area was termed the “Great American Desert.” Droughts would follow rainy spells and the sun and wind would dry up surface moisture.
In 1854, Daniel Halladay developed the American-type windmill. It was smaller, less expensive and could be shipped and built easily. Its sails were held into the wind by a weight, which would rise slowing to reduce the area of the sails when the wind was too fast. Traditional cloth covered sails were soon replaced with smaller wooden blades.
These new windmills were ideal for settlers on the plains. They could pump water from great depths at a steady rate. They could shift into the prevailing winds and functioned well in fast and slow winds. And to top it off, they required little maintenance.
You can still find a few of these scattered across the states. Iowa still has a few, I took this photo from the RV window. There is just something nostalgic about these windmills.
I don’t know how many of these old windmills are in Iowa these days.
But it does say there are 6000 of these wind turbines in Iowa alone as of today. The giant thing in the background of the photo below. A big difference in windmills from the old days.
I won’t get into the efficiency of these or all the controversy about them all over the country. I know at this little horse show I went to, I photographed a lot of children with their horses and had to delete a lot of windmills from the background. Which is not that hard to do in photoshop these days.
In Twilight’s Hush, where whispers drift, The storm clouds weave a gentle shift, Like ghosts in realms of azure seas, They float with soft, enigmatic ease.
With edges brushed in shades of grey, They roam the sky in a fleeting ballet, Their wispy tendrils tease the night, An ethereal dance of shadowed light.
They gather slow with sighs of lore, A murmured tale of tempest’s core, Yet in their grace, a calm prevails, An artful play where calmness sails.
No thunder’s roar or lightning’s claim, Just drifting clouds with no ill aim, They kiss the heavens, drift and part, An endless play of storm and heart.
Their fleeting forms in twilight blend, A moment’s breath that does transcend, In wispy trails, their stories told, Of storms unbound and skies unrolled.
Silhouettes and Sunsets – In the quiet of dusk, where day meets night, Silhouettes dance in the fading light, Outlined figures against the golden blaze, A moment suspended in the sun’s last gaze.
Trees stretch their limbs like ink on the sky, Birds soar in patterns, bidding day goodbye, Silhouettes of wings, elegant and free, Caught in the hues of a painted reverie.
And when the night arrives, with stars aglow, Silhouettes fade where memories flow, But in the heart’s canvas, they remain, Silhouettes and sunsets, eternally framed.
Spring Bird Family Vacations – or lets call it the bird resort here at our place. This is the baby update of these 4 birds who have nested around our place.
The Raven is here every year all year. This couple had 2 babies this year. I have been trying to get a photo of all 4 of them together, but not easy to do. The 2 babies follow mom and dad everywhere still wanting to be fed by them. I just love watching how birds take care of their families.
I had mentioned in an earlier post that the Eastern Bluebirds had 4 babies. They have all left the nest and I am really going to miss these because they eat a lot of bugs. One baby somehow landed in a bucket I had outside, I took him over by the bird house and he wondered out of the bucket and than flew off.
I hope they come back next year.
The beautiful Tree Swallows had 4 or 5 babies. It is hard to count these because they fly so fast. They have all left as well. I looked up on the internet to find out where do they go after fledging. It said they usually find a group of their own and all hang out together until they fly south for the winter.
My northern Flicker residence are still here and they had 2 babies as well. I still see them flying around as a family for now.
If I can get any new photos of the kids, I will surely share them with you.
Love of Bird Photography – Some of my favorite shots this summer so far.
Eastern Bluebird on the Fly, update on these birds nesting in my purple martin house. They had 4 babies and I saw one fly out of the bird house with its parent. The other 3 would take turns coming out of the nesting box and sit on the little porch. That is a small space for 4 baby birds so they are all probably about ready to test their wings and fly to a tree.
Female Ruby Throated Hummingbird stopping by the feeder.
Shore bird after a dip in the water
Oh and my favorite, the White Pelican in flight. Nothing I love more than photographing these beautiful birds as they fly right over top of me. It is very hard to hold the camera in a complete vertical position but so worth the efforts. 🙂
Part of the Farm – My niece not only has horses, pigs are a part of the farm during the summer months. Her two children and their cousins show pigs, sheep and rabbits at their local fair. Which we are going to this year.
It is a great way for children to learn how to take care of animals and the importance of feeding and grooming them, even pigs. I don’t know much about pigs, but it is fun to watch the children work with them and take care of them.
They are a very curious animal, I was standing at their fence trying to get a photo and this one kept wanting to get close, looking for more food I reckon.
What Keeps You Busy in the summer months? Well, I love to work in the garden. But as I am getting older, it gets harder to weed the garden and plant it when it is at ground level. I have been reading a lot about raised garden beds. So this is what is going on here.
This photo is my garden from last year. It has to be fenced because of the deer. But imagine this spot covered with grass that is at least 4 ft tall and intertwined into the fence around it in the spring.
It is so discouraging to start a garden when you have to clean up the weeds first.
My husband is an amazing guy, he rototilled the garden for me and it looks ready, but I asked him if he could maybe build me a raised garden area in this spot. I showed him a picture of what I was thinking of, and by the way, he can build anything. I am quite impressed at what all he does for us, from fixing our cars to caring for our home and RV.
So he started with one box, than the dirt had to be moved.
Then he built another box, so on and so forth.
We did not have enough dirt to fill the boxes so husband cut up a bunch of dead trees to fill the boxes up half way.
We put a fence around the garden that the birds love to perch on.
Plus, they are helping me weed the garden I think and picking out bugs.
This is the final project. So much easier on my back when it comes to planting and weeding. The entire thing is planted and now I just have to maintain it. Thank you dear husband. 😉
Horse Art – nothing prettier than a team of draft horses in harness I think. I raised draft horses for years. But never did drive them. I only raised them just because they are beautiful animals. I had one that I rode which was a blast. He weighed in at almost 1 ton. His name was Big Mac.
Draft horses and mules seem to go together. They sometimes use mules to train young horses to lead. This mule below is a cutie, also belonging to my niece.
Whistle the Paint Horse – this is my niece’s horse, I made this first photo for her this year. Showing Whistle when she was just a youngster and how she has grown into a beautiful 3 year old mare this year. She does have one blue eye as well. Beautiful horse indeed.
The paint horse is a very popular breed, thanks to its flashy coloring, genial temperament, and versatility. In fact, the American Paint Horse Association counts around 100,000 members in roughly 40 countries around the world.
The Ruby’s – Ruby Throated Hummingbirds, Ruby, Emerald, Touch of Safire. This tiny bird has all the royal colors from creation. In such a small package, a tiny little heart that keeps this bird going. I am always amazed to watch hummingbirds, how fast they are and to know how many miles they fly a year is a wonderous thing. Truly a gift to witness the strength and tenacity of this living thing.
Portrait of a Hummingbird, the female Ruby throated hummingbird. Beautiful in its smallest form, creation.
A Colorful Surprise this year at home. Eastern Bluebirds have decided to use my bird house this year to raise their babies. I have never seen an eastern bluebird up here. Matter of fact I have only seen a couple of them over the years, so I feel that it is a treat to see them at all.
Their beautiful colors of blue and tan and a wonderful song they have as well.
I put two bird houses up to try and attract Purple Martins. Over the last couple of years, the only birds using this house are tree swallows. They are interesting birds because they will put nesting material in every spot so other birds think this home is occupied.
Come to find out, eastern bluebirds do the same thing. There was a slight battle between the bluebirds and tree swallows. But they seem to come to an agreement. Tree swallows took one house and bluebirds took the other.
This could have been a great shot of the tree swallow in flight, they are super fast birds. Very hard to photograph in flight. This couple had 3 or 4 babies this years. Yesterday they all came out of the house for a fly around the place. I counted 5 or 6 flying around.
Both birds eat lots of bugs, so they are a wonderful addition to our home this year.
Stormy Weather here lately. From Iowa and up where I live. Iowa is known for a lot of stormy weather. Seems like their tornado warnings go off quite often there during the summer months.
The Rose Garden – Not my rose garden, I have never actually planted a rose bush in my flower garden. Not sure why not, I guess I have heard they need a lot of care and I don’t have the greenest of thumbs. 🙂
But I love photographing roses, so many different kinds. Have a wonderful Wednesday.
Feathers From Heaven – In many spiritual traditions, feathers are also associated with the concept of spiritual ascension and the idea of rising above one’s earthly troubles. For example, in some traditions, feathers are thought to represent the connection between the physical world and the spiritual world and are seen as symbols of spiritual growth and enlightenment.
I do pick up feathers when I find them. On this particular day, I actually saw this fall out of the Northern Flicker bird as it flew overhead. Last week I posted a photo of the Flicker flying and showed what pretty yellow feathers it has. Than it flew over me and one landed right in front of me. So I had to pick it up.
Quite extraordinary it is. Such a beautiful yellow.
This is the tree the bird flew to, you can barely see him at the top of the pine tree.
The red on the back of the head is a good way to identify it. I have a pair that nest here in my yard. They also love taking dirt baths in my garden. So fun to watch.
Hanoverian and Thoroughbred – I just love horses. Most of you know I raised many of them in my younger years and now I love photographing them. I actually wasn’t into photography back when I had horses. That is when I should have started though, that would have been fun.
These two beautiful animals are from the Mobile Al mounted police department. I made a portrait of these two and sent it to the department. They loved it and said thank you, plus they told me the horse on the left is a Hanoverian, and his name is Avalon. He retired this year. The one on the right is named Papa and he is a thoroughbred Percheron mix.
They were in a parade where I took these photos. I was watching these two horses and they seemed like buddies and were just hanging out in line with the other horses and their police officers.
When it comes to getting just the right shot, I take a lot of photos waiting for just that right look, and these two gave it to me as they were touching noses in my last photo. That is the one I picked to make the portrait.
As if they have a language all their own, a moment of beauty.
Iowa Storm This Year – The day started out normal, the sun was shining. We
were in Iowa visiting my sister. I am one that checks the weather often on my
phone. There was mention of a storm brewing and heading our way. But that was
not until later in the day. So, in the morning, on this day, my sister and I got in the car and headed
to the grocery store. Wanting to get some errands done before the rain sets in
later in the day. We rounded the corner to turn into the parking lot and my sister stopped and
said, ” Well, there is a tornado”. I looked up and was startled to
see it right in front of us, about 1 mile away. We sat there for a moment and
watched it. I took a quick photo and then it touched down to the ground but did
not stay there long. It was moving quite fast eastward. More like a funnel cloud I think they
call them. Tornado sirens started and we headed back to her house. I quickly
left to go out to the campground where husband and our 2 dogs and cat are to
check on the situation and the weather updates. In the photo below, the first camper is ours, with the jeep behind it. The one next to us is my brothers, who came here from Montana to visit while we were there. A nice little family reunion. The weather said the storm was coming straight out of the south, which means it was going to come right at our rv, being my brother is on the north west side of us. Well, as I was watching the weather, I told my brother I think we might move to the other side of him, because there wasn’t any wind breaks on the south side of us. Thinking his trailer might break some of the winds heading our way. They were predicting 60 mile an hour wind gust starting by 5 pm. The clouds are starting to roll, the weather said the winds had changed and would be coming out of the south east. More behind us where there is a line of trees. So, we decided not to move our RV to the other side of my brother. But, 60 mph winds are a lot when you are in an RV, we have been in 40 mph winds and that was scary. I told my husband I am heading into town to go to my sister’s house who has a basement. He said he was going to stay there and my brother was holding out as well. I took our little dog with me and I told him to head over too their house if it gets to bad out. So off I went. The winds hit right on schedule, all of 60 mph. Husband kept calling and checking in. He was fine. We were all watching out the windows of my sister’s house. The rain is coming down in sheets, the wind keeps changing. Spinning round and round, going east and then west. My husband called, he heard a big crack outside the RV, he looked out the side window and branches were braking off of the trees. After about an hour, the storm was over. The sun came out, the river was raging and coming out of its banks. I drove back out to the camper to see the damage and check on everyone. For as long as I can remember, my intuitions have saved me many times. Intuitions or the small voice that has led me through many of hard times to a safer place. I never ignore these voices, I never ignore the nudges that I get, I believe they are from a higher place. I will show you why next.
For as I was saying earlier. We had talked about moving to this spot here, but at the last minute something told me to just stay where we were.
If we would have moved this branch, which was just as heavy as a tree itself, would have fallen right on top of our RV, I can imagine the damage it would have done, not to say what might have happened being my husband was in there as well. Gives me goose bumps looking at the photos to this day. By later in the day, the owner of the campground had the tree all cleaned up. He had his chainsaw out and one person helping him load all the wood onto it and the spot was level and ready for business again. Moral of this story, a gut feeling is worth listening to. A gut feeling to me is someone giving you a nudge. It’s a kind of inner voice, a nudge that seems to guide us towards a decision or away from danger. Have a great weekend. 🙂 Iowa Storm This Year Sandra J’s Into the Light AdventuresSandra J’s Photography & Fine Arts By Sandra J
Raindrops from Heaven – gentle reminders of His power and presence.
In the quiet of twilight, they begin to fall, Silver tears from heaven’s gentle call. Raindrops, soft and fleeting, grace the earth, A symphony of whispers, a timeless rebirth.
This is the last of our stops in Columbus Ms. This cemetery was founded in 1839.
This location is the burial site of four Confederate generals, more than two thousand Confederate soldiers, veterans from every war the United States has fought, as well as distinguished authors, legislators, and people from all walks of life. It is the site of America’s first Decoration Day (1866), inspiring the writing of the poem “The Blue and the Gray.” This site also represents the reconciliation after the Civil War, as the Ladies of Columbus put flowers on the graves of both Confederate and Union soldiers who had been buried there.
Many of the tree roots have grown around the markers.
Every spring a group of high school students conduct a tales from the crypt program in the cemetery. We went to it one night as I have never been to one. The students had to choose a person who was buried in the cemetery and study the person and his or her life.
They gave a speech as that person and dressed in the proper clothing of the time. It was very informative and all the students did very well.
