31-DEC-2010
It is incredible here. Everything is frozen solid, fountain, hummingbird feeder, bird bath, buckets of rainwater. There is a layer of ice crystals about a quarter inch thick on the cushions on the patio. This is Agricultural Zone 23, 2nd from the coast. We are suppose to have very mild weather. Oh Well!!! A little minnie winter wonderland.
28-DEC-2010
What a little cutie! Grandma teases that he has bushy Armenian eyebrows. I think they are quite nice frames for some beautiful "lady-killer" eyes. Handsome little man.
25-DEC-2010
This crazy Cat always sleeps under the Christmas tree as long as it is up. She was a wild kitten found in a wood pile. We brought her home from the desert when she was just a little ball of fluff. When she was a tiny thing she used to climb up in the tree. Now she just sleeps under it.
22-DEC-2010
Fr. A had his Birthday Breakfast Bash at Journey's at Pechanga Casino in Temecula. It was a great time to catch up with old friends and celebrate a life very well lived. He is our retired Pastor who has touch so many lives and made a huge difference in the world. We all love you Fr. A. Happy 80th. You look Muauuuuvelous! Kisses.
22-DEC-2010
Here comes the sun. It is going to take a little while, but you can begin to see the light. These big fluffy clouds with the edges lit are more beautiful than ever. I am a lover of rain but as they say, "Absence makes the heart grow fonder." Rah! Rah! Sunshine.
21-DEC-2010
Time to clean up a little if the rain lets up for a while. The storm turned over the hammock. knocked over the umbrella in a 50 lb. stand. Pulled up another umbrella and threw it across the patio. Definitely not a hurricane or a tornado but pretty big for us. Lots of plugged drains and closed roads. Mudslides causing a detour around through the hills. Adds a 30 minutes onto my drive into town.
20-DEC-2010
Boy oh Boy, What a storm. I don't ever remember a storm lasting this long in my life. We general get wind and rain for a day or two at the most. This year we have had more rain than I can remember. I think we got about 13inches for this one storm. Very unusual for "sunshiney" Southern California.
18-DEC-2010
It has been raining here for more days in a row than I have ever experienced in my life. I am a native Californian and this has been six days in a row so far and at least one more to go they say. My bridge is flooded and the hammock and umbrellas have blown over. but a few of my feathered friends are still checking to see if the Bird Cafe is open. Of course we can always find a little seed for them.
16-DEC-2010
This old view camera was given to me by my father who knows how much I love photography and also that I am a junk collector like him. Last weekend my little brother brought me a 4x5 view camera that he had laying around. I sure do love it. What a nice surprise. Thanks brother. I'll post a picture of it soon. Love, Sis
14-DEC-2010
Very hard to get into the Christmas spirit this year, but my little darlings came and really helped to get the trees up. Large Italian Family gathering on Sunday and the Christmas spirit kicks in. Large, Loud, Wild and Wonderful Family Time.
11-DEC-2010
Are you aware that there is someone licking the corner of your mouth???? Never mind him pose nice for the camera my beautiful baby girl.
10-DEC-2010
Traditions are a great thing to pass on. This is our first year to go, Manny's family has been doing this for years. Maybe next year we can all make it together. Great fun, but Brrrrrrrr cold.
10-DEC-2010
My little niece cheering for others after she gets her two awards at school. I am so proud of her. she is a wonderful loving and giving child. Congrats sweet Lizzy.
05-DEC-2010
I was delighted to see these items from the past, still up on the grocery shelves. Recently I went to the Antique Tractor and Steam Engine Festival in Vista, California. There was a whole collection of old wringer washers there. Brought back such memories. My Grandma used her old wringer for many years after everyone else had switched over to a modern day design.
05-DEC-2010
It is really time to jump into red and green and get rid of the fall scarecrows, but one last breakfast with the little guys. I am having my oatmeal with tropical dried fruit salad
pecans and eggnog. It is sooooo delicious that way. Dessert!!
04-DEC-2010
The nerve of this guy! He is in my spot. The little stinker.
30-NOV-2010
As I drove in the other night I thought this is a nice scary photo. Just happened to have my camera and tripod with me. I am taking teacher Keith Hanz's advice about a good photographer wears his camera like a piece of clothing. You aren't dressed without it!
28-NOV-2010
Thanks Duo for the ideas. I played with this and have about 6 different layers with different effects and textures. What a great idea for a not so great photo. It really improved it in my eyes. Thanks again. First time I have really played much with textures.
23-NOV-2010
Just one of my crazy ideas. What kind of crazy person puts shoe on a clothesline and in teacups??? The crazy, weird woman in "Weird California". Boy do I love that book.
22-NOV-2010
Fun shoot with some fun people. Mooshie seems to bring out the nuttiness in all of us. Tooooo much Fun!
21-NOV-2010
Here I am sure flare from the porch light must have caused this aberration but it was such a nice surprise when I found it. Messing around with the exposures got me this great green other-worldly color. Fun!!!
18-NOV-2010
Another class project, a self portrait that symbolizes me. My Auntie just brought me this book and it is pretty great. It kept me occupied for hours the next day. Then I got this idea for this photo. I am a native Californian and I have always known that If not down right weird, I am at the very least eccentric. When ever my kids refer to someone else as weird I remind them I am sure there are many people who think we are weird. I am not sure they believe me though. Oh well.
13-NOV-2010
This is probably one of my favorite parts of a wedding. It is so often a very touching time to see the father of the bride dance with his little girl. This is a very special father daughter couple we have know since this bride was born and they are very dear to our hearts. Beautiful wedding, beautiful bride, beautiful friends...
12-NOV-2010
Little Madi gets to study Viola this year at school. She is so excited and practices everyday. She was quite happy to pose for grandma out in the orange grove. She told me this is the official pose they must do while waiting for their turn to play. I am very proud of her progress and dedication. Kisses sweetie.
09-NOV-2010
I really had a lot of fun with this one. I wasn't even exempt from being the butt of my own joking. I ended up turning in the one of Art but I am pretty ridiculous too.
08-NOV-2010
Chasing these magnificent clouds all the way to the coast for a beautiful sunset photo out over the ocean. Welllllll, the clouds refused to go out over the water. It was as clear and as flat as the Pacific ocean could be. I got no spectacular shots of clouds at sunset but got several while driving. No good places to pull over and take my time and get a really good shot.
07-NOV-2010
What else can we find to hang on the clothesline???? So far we have had jewelry, assorted bunnies, undies, flowers, ridiculous slips and wraps. Hummmmm what's next?
06-NOV-2010
What fun it is to be the night owl at one a.m. with a very sleepy guy around. Good thing he is nice and not tooooo scary. He never wakes up while I am having such fun anyway. He dresses up quite nicely. He had a tiara, a pirates hat, books, glasses, bunny, and even a lily. Just couldn't find the right kind of lily at 1:00 am in late November. I'll try this again in the spring.
05-NOV-2010
Trying to shot out in nature with a wild little dog around can definitely be a challenge. This guy thought the bunny looked like a baby he got for Christmas one year from his Auntie Carla, Uncle Rob and kids. He used to run around like a crazy guy trying to find his baby. We would try to throw it to land where he wouldn't be able to find it. Great family entertainment. Boy, do we need to get a LIFE!!!
04-NOV-2010
My model goofing off. Hiding from the camera. You know you love it! What a great photo though. Always make lemonade.
03-NOV-2010
Great time to get out and take a fresh look at the world. As I get to the edge of town and look down from the mountain, I never know what kind of surprise I will see. This morning there was a spectacular sunrise that just needed a little help from Photoshop! Or was that just my lack of a proper exposure???
02-NOV-2010
Oh here we go and I am not at all ready. But no matter what Christmas will come whether I have done all I plan to or not. It will be a beautiful day filled with love and joy, spent with family and friends. We will stuff ourselves with yummy things to eat and enjoy each others company.
31-OCT-2010
Must we wait for the photo nuts to take our pictures??? Ooohhhhhh well!!! This is just the beginning.
30-OCT-2010
What a place this Temecula! This is very unusual to have so much rain and very early in the year at that. I just love these big fluffy clouds and it seems as if lately I am really getting more than my fair share of beautiful cloudy skies to photograph.
28-OCT-2010
Here they are. The new Mr. and Mrs. Aren't they cute. Very sweet too. Congrats you guys. Wishing you many, many, many more happy years together. Love, Auntie
27-OCT-2010
This was our view from room 563 in Circus Circus' first tower. There is a lot of construction every where you look which detracts from the view, but... it is still an amazing city and great for photographs. It would be even greater if we weren't zooming down the street, in traffic, taking shots through the dirty, bird poo'd windsheild!! Photo shop here I come.
24-OCT-2010
It was just so gorgeous up on the mountain. The clouds were down very low. sometimes we were right in them sometimes right above them. They were moving so rapidly that it was really hard to catch just what you wanted besides the fact that you had to find a place to pull off the road.
23-OCT-2010
The ride up was incredible. The valley was full of a huge cloud and this cloud was one we drove right trough.
23-OCT-2010
This little guy was working very hard loading up his shovel one dirt clod at a time until it was full and then would pick it up and fill the hole. Every now and then he would try to handle the shovel in the conventional way, with no success he would go back to loading it one handful of dirt at a time. Very adorable!
22-OCT-2010
As a child I was always terrified of these bugs and we had sooooo many of them. I haven't seen one in years. Art found this little guy out by the dog dish and he was on his back. We kept turning him right side up but he seemed to have a hurt leg. After babying him for a while, feeding him, keeping him warm, giving him a dry bed, he seemed better. We'll see. Maybe he is going to make it.
20-OCT-2010
Lab today in the studio was all about Z-Axis lighting, as someone so succinctly put it, "Lighting from everywhere". There were two very elaborate set ups ready to go when we got there with about 7 lights on one and 5 on the other gels, relectors, difussers all in place. Jason and Carla were good sports and hammed it up for all the photogs. Great shoot and lots of fun.
20-OCT-2010
What a beauty. We have been doing this stuff for so long and we still have fun at it. She always was a ham and nothing much has changed, but now she is a mommy with her own hambones to capture in photos. Keep that camera clicking Mooshie!
19-OCT-2010
Ok, The guy is stillllll on guard. Who would come out in this weather?? No one to chase so he sits in his usually look out spot and catches raindrops on his tongue and takes a bath. Too cute. 256 photos today a a hummer standing guard in the rain. Do I need to get a LIFE????
19-OCT-2010
What a storm!!! We were hit by lightning twice within minutes. Too bad I was so worried about dogs and calling the fire department that I didn't get a shot of the palm tree lit up like a giant Tiki Torch. The second strike knocked out a phone line which happened to be my internet. It really was kind of cool, now that it is over. Art had to go out in the car with lightening flashing all around and try to round up our old delapidated Eva Dog. She finally came home on her own, soaking wet. At least it was good for a night inside on the sofa for two outside dogs.
16-OCT-2010
Even the bees try to take over. I have only seen him take them on one at a time. When there are a whole tribe of them he leaves them alone. Smart guy!!!
15-OCT-2010
He is still at it. Never learned to be sharing and caring. Where the heck is his mother or wife anyways???? I am sure a proper female could get him in line!
14-OCT-2010
I took my extension rings out to just see what I might be able to find to practice on. I found this nice new sprout on my grape vine and thought I'd get a shot with the sun shining through the leaves. Little did I know I was going to capture these little tiny insects. What a nice surprise!
13-OCT-2010
This little guy thinks he owns the whole feeder even though there is room for six to feed comfortably and it would take him a very long time to drink it all by himself. I have had as many as seven at one time but this guy will not let any of them have a drink if he can help it. Keeps him VERY busy.
12-OCT-2010
This get up is a treasure that I found in a local antique shop called Granny's Attic here in Temecula. I love hunting for crazy outfits reminding us of yesteryear. This most unlikely model for this was a really good sport. Thanks Kristin.
09-OCT-2010
This group called WineBrew was a group of fantastic young musicians. This was just a shot of them hamming it up and playing to each other and mesmerizing the crowd that had gathered. They played a huge assortment of styles from blues to classic rock and on to more modern stuff. Not only great music but accomplished showmanship. Best of luck WineBrew.
06-OCT-2010
This is a display set up by my daughter for our studio shoot for class. I thought it was such a beautiful set and took a photo of it. We had such a great and productive shoot with a lot accomplished and we had a lot of fun. It is great to share the passion of photography with my talented little girl.
05-OCT-2010
My Niece and her son came and helped us out on a day we have to work in the studio for class. We were desperate and I know how she hates to have her photo taken but she said yes and I am so happy with what I got. They were both great models. Nattie is very shy but once she warmed up and we all started to have some fun the cameras were clicking away. At this point the little guy had been stomping around in the heels but when we wanted his photo in them that was a different story. Super fun day with super great models.
02-OCT-2010
This is a nice sunny day in California. They have just redone the road here and the sky was so blue and the clouds so white. What a beautiful day!
01-OCT-2010
This is what I got from bringing home the little caterpillars that I found at a restaurant in Menifee near the campus. This is the only guy to survive. I took him out and released him on my grapevines. I know he will eat a lot of leaves very quickly, but it is Autumn and they will all turn brown and fall very shortly anyway. Bon appetit!!!
30-SEP-2010
I have always loved rain, but now that I am a farmer I ADORE rain! My trees need it desperately and we have such restrictions on water use here in CA. Everything gets washed that we are not allowed to hose off any more. It is more important than ever. Sorry for the flood victims but thankful for our rain.
29-SEP-2010
Oh my, I think I may finally have it! I at least half way understand my flash. All these years I just refused to use it unless I had absolutely no other choice and then I just said, "I hate artificial, I love natural light." It is amazing when you can actually get what you want WITH your flash! Thanks Teach Hanz.
28-SEP-2010
Sarah came to help us out with our fashion shoots and she was fantastic! She started out a little timid and shy but when she changed into this outfit the shy little Sarah disappeared. What a little hottie. Thanks for the great job Sarah.
27-SEP-2010
What fun! Dress up for a fashion shoot. Many hats, scarves, gloves, jewels and other accessories. Great energy from the models. The only problem was having enough time to do all that we imaged. So many clothes, so many ideas, so little time.
26-SEP-2010
We had a great fun shoot with the Pierce family. This little doll was very interested in everything around her and really kept us hopping. Great imagination and fun to explore the waterfall. The good news, nobody fell in. She took me into the jungle looking for Lions, Tigers, and Bears, Oh My!!!
25-SEP-2010
Wiped out in seconds while watching Over the Hedge with Poppa. That was quick!
24-SEP-2010
VRBO 320888 for Rent Loma Linda, Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Take a peek.
23-SEP-2010
The most prolific Female Panda in captivity. She is such a good little mommy.
22-SEP-2010
One of my beautiful kids, all grown up now and more beautiful than ever. We have had several play dates in the College Photo Studio. Great toys to play with. Thanks Keith Hanz for all you do for us.
21-SEP-2010
Conner the futuristic Lightening Mc Queen race car driver is clutching an ancient old rag bunny in his arms. Replica of a toy bunny made for me by my sister Connie Blanchard. One of my prized possessions.
17-SEP-2010
Getting the photos ready and all the info to put the Loma Linda House up on VRBO site. Coming along nicely. I am finally getting this internet. It is about time!
16-SEP-2010
This is most of my gears from many years past. I was soooooo resistant to digital but now I am all in. It is just getting better and better. It is definitely a different type of fun from watching the photos slowly, magically appear in the chemicals, but lots of fun just the same. There was definitely something great about that darkroom. Even the stinky smell was some how pleasant, similar to skunk and coffee!
16-SEP-2010
Grandma's Buffet was her "pride and joy" and when it was given to me by her I understood what she was giving me. It was not a piece of furniture that appealed to me at the time but I so understood the significance of the gift. As the years have passed I have come to treasure it more and more. Grandma taught me about hospitality both in a positive and negative way. Family was always welcome and fed well, while as many people of that era, there was little tolerance for anyone that was different from you. My father, whose parents emigrated here from Italy, was considered undesirable. From my mother I learned to embrace differences, which is definitely a big plus when you want to be hospitable.
13-SEP-2010
Reviewing and revising some good old basic habits. Eating better, fresh air, exercise, schedule chores, schedule play, check planner and keep on track. Have been off schedule for toooooo long. Let's get rollin'!!!
11-SEP-2010
This guy was on the move this morning and was quite happy with his bone. At one point he picked it up with his mouth and tossed it in the air.
11-SEP-2010
Pacific Photography Society Meetup took a trip to the Wild Animal Park associated with the San Diego Zoo. It is such a great place with beautiful gardens and animals that are as near to free as you can be and be in a zoo. They have lots of room and you can take photos for the most part without wires and screens in your way. Next best thing to a real safari. Our fearless leader got us out early and down to the cheetahs before there morning nap. Thanks Walter Koenig and Jim Stone!
09-SEP-2010
As Mooshie and I had our lunch at Chipoltile in Menifee, CA. We noticed we had a lot of little visitors at our table. I got the bright idea to bring some home. They were eating grape leaves and had pretty much demolished the small vines there. I have a huge vine with plenty of leaves and no guests so I decided to capture a few. Mooshie had an empty lunch container to help transport them home. She doesn't want it back. I can clean it!!
08-SEP-2010
Training from my little girl on how to blow a proper kiss. I could use some instruction on a proper wink also. I always look as if I have some type of severe problem with my coordination!
07-SEP-2010
This big guy was hanging out at the Self Realization Prayer Garden in Encinitas, California. It is such a beautiful, serene, garden overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Beautiful plants, huge koi in three separate ponds, walking paths and sitting areas for meditation and prayer time. Wonderful place!
07-SEP-2010
These pretty flower were at the San Diego Botanical Gardens in Encinitas, California. There were such a wide variety of gardens with something for everyone. Right now there is a beautiful display of Garden Art Sculptures. Even though it seems as if we hardly got a summer, fall is almost here. Will we get any more hot weather. Today it didn't get above 70 degrees. It was drizzling when I left home. Amazing!
06-SEP-2010
A stop to combat car-sickness and to take a quick shot. Very hazy with the sun going down. Not many choices about where we can stop.
06-SEP-2010
Grandma's little Angel got this bright idea for an ad for the cabin. Wolf, Red Cloak (Sweatshirt) and quilt representing Grandma. She is quite a girl. Kisses from Grandma.
01-SEP-2010
This little guy crawled out of my watering pail as I watered my patio plants. He was just so adorable and beautiful. He kept trying to crawl back in but I needed to water so I eventually got him to climb down and he was still there waiting when I put his house back.
31-AUG-2010
My beautiful baby girl just had another birthday. She just becomes another year prettier every year. We had a great intimate get together at Rosa's Tortilla Factory in Temecula. We all broke our diets for some great chocolate cake. Happy Birthday, Mooshie!!!
Went down to the airport early in the morning and decided to try and take a few shots of the marina for a HDR series. It was harder than I thought. It would have worked much better on a quieter series.
29-AUG-2010
This little guy was so curious. He came to the window and seemed just as interested in looking at us as we were in looking at him. So cute!!
Out just looking around to see what I might find. Planning to settle for some bees in the lavendar when all of a sudden I spotted this little guy. He was a pretty good model, very pleasant to work with.
24-AUG-2010
I went in search of concrete for a photo challenge and what better place to get some interesting photos of concrete than Balboa Park, San Diego. We had a great morning with so many nice photos of concrete!! Kind of hard to imagine, isn't it?
22-AUG-2010
Ahhhhh Mom! Aren't you done with that thing yet?? My youngest is not interested in being on this side of the camera. He started taking photos when he was around four years old and I was always amazed at what he got. Of course back then it was film.
22-AUG-2010
This guy was flying back and forth from my daughter's antenna and my antenna. He must have gone back and forth 50 times. When I finally got out my camera and can out prompted by Art, he stopped and posed for me for a very long time. He was very cooperative.
21-AUG-2010
Little sweetie celebrates her 7th birthday with all the family around her. Happy to you Liz. Kisses from Auntie.
20-AUG-2010
It truly is amazing what I find delight in. My honey knows me soooo well that when he came across this amazing formation he called, "Come quick,bring your camera." Now this can be anything from ducks in the pool, a cute baby bird at the feeder OR even "Ants in Formation". It was like a perfect wagon train circle with everyone equal distance apart. Then I discovered that I had the wrong lens on. Next no battery, and then no sd card. By the time I corrected all those things I say will never happen again, this was the best that I could do. Still a very nice circle they made!
19-AUG-2010
We have a great friend Kristin Mc Millian, who is a fabulous Barista, Roaster and Coffee Artist. My daughter, Carla Flocken invited me to join them on a fun evening of photographing the creation of Coffee Art. The creation is very quick and the demise almost equally as quick so you have to work fast. These are just a few as they went on their way to coffee art heaven.
18-AUG-2010
Art's Granddaughter who is 6 years old decided his big smashed toe would look better with nail polish on it so he let her paint it with her new nail polish. Then we got tired of baby blue so I tried my hand at artistic toe art. (Not so good) When he started to slip into my sandal instead of his own a photo op was discovered. What a great sport!!! Kisses.
18-AUG-2010
What a beautiful sky as I am getting home early evening. Just couldn't resist stopping at the mail boxes to take a photo.
17-AUG-2010
Between us we can sure find a lot of interesting things on there to keep us occupied.
12-AUG-2010
A trip up to the cabin is always a nice retreat. It doesn't matter if I am being lazy and doing nothing but goofing or working hard to remodel or do maintenance, it is always a great get away. It is so quiet and peaceful. We had very little visiting from the local wild life. Everyone seems to be laying low right now.
11-AUG-2010
I took many photos of this fly but I think this one looks like he is working out getting ready for a boxing match. He was really a very nice and cooperative model.
09-AUG-2010
Even Junior High Girls delight in Peanut butter and Marshmallow creme sandwich. Grandma has the best junk food around.
08-AUG-2010
As I stepped across this Grate on the floor at the Maritime Museum in San Diego I was intrigued by how far down it went. It was a great trip over all and Art's first photo trip with his new camera. Great day.
05-AUG-2010
Nice artwork on the back door of a truck parked in Old Town Temecula. We stopped at Bev-Ray Cameras to get a few things. Very nice owner.
04-AUG-2010
On our trip out to pick up a digital camera for Art, we stopped for a burger at the infamous McD's and what a sign we got about the positiveness of the day. It was a very good day!!!
02-AUG-2010
A labor of love, this little girl loves to work doing something. When not helping to create a party for little kids to enjoy she is always looking for something to do. She loves to give Grandma a pedicure and we played it up today with make up and a hairdo and even wardrobe selection down to the accessories. She did such a good job that Grandma could even be seen in public as we took a trip to the mall for a first day of school outfit. A very talented and creative little sweetie. Kisses from Grandma.
31-JUL-2010
We have many, but this little guy is definitely one of them. He is sweet and loving and basically an all around good kid. Just three so he still knows how to make plenty of mischief, but lovable and adorable still.
31-JUL-2010
What an adorable face. This guy is a cornball. I have much better photos of him actually being serious and knitting, but this one makes me smile.
27-JUL-2010
I think this is the last photo taken before they flew away. It is funny that they never moved when we would look in or take photos they seemed not to mind at all but then one day we looked in and they flew out and away. A little sad, empty nest syndrome, and yet happy that they made it.
26-JUL-2010
Heading down to take a look at a Jeep in Cathedral City, CA. I snapped this shot out the window at 80 mpg. near Cabazon, CA. At least I wasn't driving the car. Might have been better to stop and take my time, but then why start now?
25-JUL-2010
Two little monkeys perched like cats on the back of the sofa in the window. Nice and warm on a bright sunshiny day. Photo by Art (Get this guy a camera!)
24-JUL-2010
This is as close as we got to a group photo. (Taken by Art) I really wish we would have thought to take one group shot. Oh Well. Live and learn. Shouldn't I have learned by now???
23-JUL-2010
Here's my guy busy at work on the computer. He is probably just goofing but he makes a nice picture. He's got so much more going for him than just his good looks though. He is loving, thoughtful, kind, considerate, fun and funny, and never complains about my cooking. WHAT A GUY!!
21-JUL-2010
I have always wanted to learn to knit and have had my Auntie try to teach me several times. I would always get discouraged and give up. Well Art says to me the other day that he wants to take a knitting class, so off to the Temecula Library we went on a Sunday afternoon, took a class with about 25 people, all of which were women except Art. We are both now knitting away. One down!
18-JUL-2010
Alive and well, every time we get near they start with their little mouths open waiting for us to throw in some juicy bugs. You will have to wait for mom!!
17-JUL-2010
These little guys showed up precariously perched in a crooked nest on the outside of a bush by our front door. It seems as if the gardeners, doing a good job, had trimmed them right out of a home. Two of the four eggs had fallen out but there were two babies left and in spite of our interfering or maybe because of it, they lived to fly away a few weeks later. Even though we tampered extensively with the nest trying to "help", the mommy continued to come and feed and take care of them. The little house finches flew away and we hope they are happily finding yummy seeds at our backyard feeders.
16-JUL-2010
What a delightful day. I got the privilege of helping my daughter with a photo shoot for a very special family and friends. It was the blending of two wonderful families and it was hard to tell where one began and the other ended, such a special group of loving and caring, beautiful people. This is a photo of the newest member.
13-JUL-2010
Last of the remnants of the 40th Class Reunion. All fun times must come to an end, but til we meet again. Aloha.
11-JUL-2010
Great photo by Art of little critter with the big shoes. Pacific Photography Society Meet Up 1st Annual Bar-B-Que. What a great location and a great group of people. Lots of fun and good food.
09-JUL-2010
Of course I am a little prejudice. My daughter is a talented, sweet, fun, awesome young women. She is a great daughter, sister, wife and mother. I could not be prouder of her.
08-JUL-2010
A trip to Pier 39 in San Francisco was topped off by a nice cup of coffee at a sidewalk cafe and a visit to the area where the local sea lions hang out. It was freezing cold with quite a brisk wind but it was a nice relief from the heat wave we had been experiencing inland.
07-JUL-2010
What a nice picnic lunch we had with cousins at the Yuba River up near Sacramento CA. It was a hot summer's day but with a nice breeze and the shade of big trees it was quite pleasant.
04-JUL-2010
This little curly top was born on the 4th of July.
02-JUL-2010
A sewing lesson from Grandma complete with using a pattern,adding a zipper and lining a bag. Good job little Madi.
29-JUN-2010
New fun place in town to cool down, White Lime has wonderful soft serve frozen yogurt with so many toppings you can't believe. We love to go there with the fun red futuristic style chairs that go up and down. You almost feel like you are having dessert in a spaceship. FUN!
28-JUN-2010
Playing musical chairs with a chair for each person so that no one was ever out. They played and played and played. Everyone stayed happy and got lots of exercise.
27-JUN-2010
One of the guys from El Monte High School Class of 1970 drove over in this great vehicle. What a beauty!
26-JUN-2010
This is the closest we got to a whole group shot. We had a few people who could only make it on Friday or Sunday, but the majority of people are here. We had a great time together.
25-JUN-2010
Here are two old friends from the class a year ahead of ours. It was so great to have them join us. We all had a great time. Everyone pitched in and helped out.
22-JUN-2010
Those were the days, when something as simple as a peanut butter and marshmallow creme sandwich could make someone soooooo happy.
21-JUN-2010
Oh to be young and find delight in the feather duster. First dusting here and there and then eventually wearing it as a hat. I don't think I was ever young enough to delight in that!!!
20-JUN-2010
Well, most of the time. The Del Mar Fair can bring out the beast in just about anyone. Normally more like a redheaded Marilyn Monroe but today more like a Lucille Ball. You Go Girl!!
15-JUN-2010
Two sweet little cousins that love each other dearly. Geting ready to spend a day at the Del Mar Fair, CA.
14-JUN-2010
Bodacious Betsy gets a kiss.
14-JUN-2010
Madi Found this lovely snail and kept her as a pet for a few days. Here we are pretending that she is a delicious escargot. She made her a lovely house out of a cookie tin, some plants, dirt, a little water dish. What more could a snail want???
11-JUN-2010
Madi with her BFF at their 5th grade graduation from elemetary school. Madi's teacher was Mrs. Franklin at Rancho school in Temecula, CA
10-JUN-2010
This little guy is too adorable with his little rumpled hair and his sweet little face. Auntie just loves him to bits.
07-JUN-2010
Conner is dressed in such a nice little suit. He looks like a perfect little gentleman except he is sooooooo itchy. His tasel is itchy, his pants are itchy, his head is itchy, his, hiney is itchy. The whole time on stage was spent holding his ears to keep out the singing voices of his classmates, or itching. What a guy!
06-JUN-2010
The Vines are unfurling their beautiful lush green foliage, The tiny grapes are forming and I can almost taste their sweetness in anticipation.
05-JUN-2010
Somewhat distanced from any organized religion at the moment. Not so much a struggle with faith as a struggle with what faith. To me religion should not be an instrument of war, whether subtle or brazen. It seems most are: including mine. That is just NOT the God I know.
01-JUNE-2010
What a delightful couple and family. We had so much fun capturing memories of their special day. It truly was an honor to have this opportunity. Thanks Dennis and Sheryl. Photos are finally all done.
31-MAY-2010
This is a commisioned job from my sweetie. He requested it. I think he wanted them to know he has been well fed since coming home and I guess a few other things too. Not really my design just my work. I was paid lavishly with kisses for this. Best pay of all. Enjoy Billy.
29-MAY-2010
Miss Model Alisha came to model for us again at the Balboa Park in San Diego, CA. I took the lighting course again and learned more even though it was a repeat of another session.
28-may-2010
This a a photo from Easter, but today is my son's birthday and I am posting this to tell him I love him and that he is still a delight. Happy Birthday Buddy. Love, Mom
27-MAY-2010
I am improving. Still not perfect, but, used the tripod, kept the exposure constant, focused, fill flash for foreground. Now if I only would have missed the chain and post, I could probably take it out with a little effort. Maybe another day!
20-MAY-2010
These two men were some of the volunteers on the USSMidway. When seeing a young female photog laying on the ground to get a better shot of the underside of one of the planes, the gentleman in the flight jacket rushes over and as she stands up he says. I was just about to give you mouth to mouth resuscitation. We all had a good laugh and a lot of fun was had by all.
15-may-2010
I met this young woman at Zumba class and I loved the way she could move. She is not a professional dancer but wishes to teach a Zumba class one day soon. She is a fantastic model and we had fun shooting in Balboa Park, San Diego, California.
08-MAY-2010
There was a wedding going on at the park and as I put my camera up to take a shot this little one posed as if she was so used to it by now that she just automatically waited for the shot.
07-MAY-2010
One of the girls in the club brought her daughter around to let us all practice headshots. She was a great!!!!! Model.
01-MAY-2010
My daughter Carla and I had the priviledge of taking the photos for this couples 25 Anniversary and renewal of wedding vows. What a special treat to get to be a part of their special day. The family was a delightful blended family with a wonderful bunch of adorable grandchildren, some loving the camera, some shy, but all beautiful. We had a delightful few hour with new friends. It was easy to see the love and affection that holds this family together.
29-APR-2010
After Photography Class I stopped to get something to eat and just could not resist these beautiful clouds. I am taken by the vastness of the vacant land but also with the speed with which new building is going up. Our little campus is really growing with a state-of-the-art photography studio and modern three story library. In no time this area will be a big city too.
27-APR-2010
Trying out my new gear. She is sooooo sick of me. "Don't you know it is after 10 at night and even cats want to get some sleep. You crazy woman!"
24-APR-2010
Pacific Photography Society Meetup had a daylight lighting workshop at Balboa Park in San Diego, California. Beautiful Alisha was our model and she did a fantastic job. She was delightful in personality as well as a great model. She made the event fun and productive. I learned a lot. Thanks Gary and Jim as well.
24-APR-2010
This great guy is my little brother. He is a brilliant and talented artist who deals in many media, but my favorite is his ability to visualize and then fabricate custom cars. He does it on small scale as well as real autos. He does probably 90% of all the work down to the upholstery and painting and engine work. He won a first place trophy at this event. Good Job little bro!!
23-APR-2010
What would a little boy do without bandaids?? Life would just not be the same. This guy could keep Bandaids in business I think. We have already used up two on the big toe and for the moment there are three on the big toe alone hoping they won't fall off again. Sponge Bob is our favorite, but Dora the Explorer comes in a close second. This big toe really does NEED a bandaids which is not always the case. I think Bandaids go right alone with snakes and snails. Snakes, Snails, Puppy Dog Tails, and Bandaids. Hummmmmm, doesn't rhymn to well.
22-APR-2010
I think he thought I looked pretty tasty or at the very least he was annoyed that I was interrupting his date. He looked up at me and started to move towards me in a rather menacing way. Earlier he had been over growling at some naughty children who were up against the glass and he would have been touching them except for the glass. Out here there is only a ravine seperating us. I spoke very kindly to him. It was a nice rainy day and so they were active and there were very few visitors. Nice for photographers.
21-APR-2010
Soooooo, have you ever seen the underside of a bee? Well I got to see this little guy really close up because he rode all the way down the hill and into town on my window. I got out, went in for about 45 minutes, came back out, got in the car and he never moved. At the first stop light I came to he finally flew off to the delight of my grandson. "Grandma, he flew away!!!"
20-APR-2010
One of the product shots I made for Photography class at Menifee college. I am shooting a very diverse set of items. Can't seem to make up my mind. Many do seem to have to do with food. I do love to eat!
19-APR-2010
My main squeeze gave me this perfume and I love it. It smells good and it pretty much discribes me. I am mostly nice but look out. I have a little bit of naughtiness in me.
Can be bullheaded and opininated.
18-APR-2010
Home Sweet Home... wonderfully warm, looking out the back door through the screen door. It has been a long wet winter. Good to see the sunshine. It is supposed to rain again tomorrow.
17-APR-2010
Meetup Group Pacific Photography Society went to Maritime Museum and then walked along PCH to get nice shots as the sun went down. It is a great group of people who seem to have a great time together click,click,clicking away.
16-APR-2010
The king is getting prepared to clean my bedroom for me. I am so lucky to have such a helpful king in my life. He is going to pick up what he threw on the ground with the fireplace tool to pick up logs, and then he is going to dust with an old fashioned feather duster. Great shots and fun.
15-APR-2010
Had a great, fun, photo shoot with 3 + 3, A mom and her two boys, and my daughter and her two. A lot of fun was had by all, a little chaotic at moments but over all everyone did well. I got a few cute candid shots and I am sure my daughter got several great more formal shots.
14-APR-2010
We had a verry busy day but took a little time out to go to the park for a few minutes before picking up Sissy. Moving very swiftly, he was a challenging photo subject which I am sure was just what he intended. He is actually hauling his camera around with him.
13-APR-2010
My great neice and nephew are out to visit from Missouri. This is the newest addition to our ever expanding family, my new great, great, nephew. Boy does that make me feel old. He is not the first either. He is four months old and already 20lbs, a big boy. He does love to eat. He is already about half the size of his tiny mommy.
12-APR-2010
Conner gives a thumbs up to a new little restuarant in Temecula called the Spicy Pickle. Fresh bread like you can not imagine, wonderful salads, and of course spicy pickles. Delicious!!! The little waitress was very attentive, friendly and helpful. We will definitely go back.
12-APR-2010
I got out early to take care of all the little errands that seem to pile up and get put off for photo taking or photo editing. When it is finally D-Day, and I can wait no longer, I do take care of necessities but not without my camera.
10-APR-2010
My little nephew celebrated his 3rd birthday today. We had great food, family, and fun. The best entertainment was provided by the kids eating humongous cupcakes. Blue frosting does not come off of carpeting very easily. The big blue one landed frosting side down. Oh No!!!
08-APR-2010
The Pacific Photography Society Meetup Group went to the San Diego Wild Animal Park to visit the Butterfly exhibit. It only lasts a very short time but is well worth the effort to get there. It is kind of magical being in there with them flying all around you and landing right on people. I got several good shots but I really like this one with his wings in motion. This little guy just fluttered, fluttered and fluttered as he ate.
06-APR-2010
What a wonderful place, The San Diego Botanical Gardens. There are a wide variety of garden types, even a fruit orchard. it is always fun and different from month to month. A great way to spend a day.
04-APR-2010
Just a snapshot of two great chefs with their wonderful concoctions. Not only were they beautiful but heavenly to eat.
02-APR-2010
The birds are really active right now. As I was passing the window I heard a knock, knock, knock. When I looked around, there was a Blue Scrub Jay there scolding me for not having any peanuts out. I grabbed my camera but by that time he was gone. These guys were having a very heated discussion though, so I shot them.
01-APR-2010
We found this wonderful place to take photos but by the time we found it lighting was getting a little low. It could have been great with a tripod but we weren't planning on being out so long. We were just going to shoot a few of the kids.
31-MAR-2010
We decided for Spring Break to take a little outing on the Temecula trolley. We went down to Old Town took the Trolley to the Mall, got some lunch and took the Trolley back to our vehicles. Later we discovered that today was the last day for the Trolley. It is being retired for lack of use and it has really just begun. Too bad! It was a lot of fun, kind of like Mr. Toad's Wild Ride.
30-MAR-2010
Madi helps grandma today by putting some bird seed out. These birdies eat non stop. I don't know how eats like a bird became known as not eating much!! It was so nice of Madi to have on such a flowing dress for grandma's photos.
28-MAR-2010
We did a photo shoot out in a field and this one is Conner wearing grandma's old cowboy hat. A little big on him but fun just the same. He would much rather be behind the camera than in front of it. Not easy to catch him.
25-MAR-2010
After the Birch Aquarium, we went on down to the Children's Beach at La Jolla. This is where all the sea lions hang out. There were lots and lots of them along with pelicans and other types of birds. I loved how this guy looked up at me as if to pose. Most of them were not budging. Very lazy guys.
25-MAR-2010
Pacific Photography Society took a trip to the Birch Aquarium in La Jolla, California We got some tips on how to shoot in such low light situations and with sometimes fairly fast motion. Lots of fun. Very Challenging to get decent shots.
24-MAR-2010
The kids and I had a very busy day. One of our outings was to Oscar's to eat and then a walk around the duck pond. There were many interesting things including several turtles and assorted ducks and geese. This guy was just such a nice model, holding still for a long time. I got several good shots.
23-MAR-2010
Today in class we started studio lighting. I took this class a million years ago with film back when the dinosaurs roamed and lighting was not strobe. You could see what you would get. That was challenging and this is beyond. Old age, old brain, old eyes could be part of the problem. I will get it!!!
22-MAR-2010
This little guy has more tenacity and strength than you can imagine for such a small dog. He is part Chihuahua and part who knows what. Recently the vet said he is probably part Jack Russel Terrier, which would make sense with his personality. He is extremely brave and active, somewhat of a psyco dog. But we love him. Good thing he's cute!!!
21-MAR-2010
Not sure if this is effective or just for effect, but I always enjoy seeing these. A rare sight for California.
20-MAR-2010
Only one little Gerber Daisy survived from last year. It bloomed out by my driveway. I am hoping some of the seeds will germinate soon and give me a few more.
19-MAR-2010
This is what a very close up dog nose looks like. It is not easy to take a Macro shot of a moving dog. If you get too close you get slurped. This little Chihuahua mix dog is like a Mexican Jumping Bean and I have several more photos with a lot less success.
17-MAR-2010
I was at a relatives for a reception in the backyard. As I went out the back door I saw this beautiful gigantic winged bug on the ground so I got out my camera and started to take pictures of it. Shortly, my sister-in law came out and said, "I think that is a cockroach." I was slightly embarassed and the next thing I knew someone else saw it and SQUUUUUUISH!!!
16-MAR-2010
This is a very old dish given to me by my mother. It was given to her by a friend and neighbor of her mothers. I have one very tiny lemon tree that never lacks for lemons. It is just always loaded. I will have to find some new things do do with them.
15-MAR-2010
Conner must have at least 1000 vehicles and sometimes most of them are around my bedroom somewhere. They park up in the mountains that are piles of books on the fireplace and in caves that are under my dressing table. I think this photo either shows the drive in theater or some very large parking lot, or maybe a car dealership. Watch where you walk Grandma!!
14-MAR-2010
This man is just one of the street performers that frequents Balboa Park in San Diego, California.
13-MAR-2010
Happy Birthday Dad. Another great year past, and another great year ahead of you. Love you.
12-MAR-2010
This is the last photo I took of my precious dog Simba. At 6:30 P.M. he was hit by a car on the street in front of the house. He was a stray that I took in a few years ago and he was never one to be contained. He could always find a way out. He was an extremely lovable and gentle soul. He will be sorely missed.
11-MAR-2010
On our zoo trip these were so beautiful and it was so striking in the otherwise spring-like surroundings. Things all around are blooming and yet here were these fall colored leaves.
10-MAR-2010
Conner examines the route to determine just when that trolley might get here. We rode it into Old Town, then walked to Starbuck's for a snack and coffee. The Dark Cherry Mocha is to die for. Yum Yum. I'm not sure you can even call this coffee!!!
08-MAR-2010
There is a little more discussion about whos post this is. They seem to all want on the same post even though there are many others with the exact same seeds. I do't know why this one seems so popular.
08-MAR-2010
One guy ducks as the other comes charging in for food.
07-MAR-2010
Simba is such a little piggy. He just loves the mud and water. It is raining again and when I went out to feed them, here he comes with his big muddy feet. He is such a sweet guy, very gentle and lovable.
05-MAR-2010
The rain has stopped for a while and the bees are out in full force. It is very hard to get nice photos of bees when you have three dingy dog trying to snap them up in mid air. I am probably lucky I didn't get stung.
04-MAR-2010
The dogs and I took a romp through the apple orchard today. I just couldn't resist a photo of the old truck tire that my son used to ride his bike over and jump it as he got to the top. I never saw this but his sisters would tattle on him. He was smart enough not to let mom see. Those were the days. They grow up soooooo fast.
03-MAR-2010
On the way to photo class, I just had to stop and take a photo of these wonderful stormy looking clouds. They didn't produce anything but were wonderful to look at. Clouds are exciting when you live in "Sunny California".
02-MAR-2010
Ok this is where I live. As I was going down the hill I saw this beautiful view and got this crazy idea to take a picture as if I was a tripod. Welllllllll... As close as I thought I was keeping everything level, I wasn't. I had never tried stitching photos together before so for my first time i'm ok with the results. More careful planning is always a good idea, but one that I am not known for.
28-FEB-2010
Ok, technically this was taken yesterday, but I didn't finish editing until 3am so I say it counts. I met the Pacific Photography Society for a photo shoot, when we started to walk and shoot I almost immediately got behind. Eventually when I decided I needed to find my way back to my car, I cut through this hotel and found my way back out to the street with the help of some friendly hotel employees.
28-FEB-2010
Look at those sad faces. You can even see the whining. They just spent the whole night in because it was cold and wet, I let them out to go potty and to eat their breakfast, and they're back with these pathetic looks on their faces. I let them back in for a few minutes but the look on the cat's face was evil. Those "disgusting dogs!" was easy reading in her eyes.
27-FEB-2010
Here we are again, with a crazy photog spending precious time trying to take a funky photo of herself reflected in a rainy window. Well, the other options would be to do the dishes, or make something nutritious for lunch. Awe, I think I'll take photos in the rainy window! I can always eat gumdrops for lunch.
26-FEB-2010
As I was coming into the house after dark, right by my entry was this little dandelion all alone coming out from between the grass and the driveway. Amazing that the gardeners hadn't annilated it. I came to the rescue and brought it in to be my model. I have some nice crisp sharp ones but somehow this soft focus one is the one that appeals to me.
25-FEB-2010
Ahhhh, this is better, a trip to Old Town San Diego, California with my photo friends. Much better than taking photos of cereal. But you never know. Some days I may be back there. Maybe it will be at least eggs and bacon next time. This photo is taken from Heritage Park in front of an old restored Victorian Era house. Up on the hill you can see modern architecture looking down on Heritage.
23-FEB-2010
Oh my, I have stooped to taking photos of my breakfast cereal! Am I really that desperate to try and keep photo-a-day on track. Welllllllll... yes I guess I am!!
22-FEB-2010
When we take walks around the yard there are always treasures to find. We have seen these many times sitting up on the bridge column. The kids pick them up, examine them and then put them back. Today we had been down to the trampoline and on the way back up Madi picked these up, examined them and then held them up beside her face and made a "gopher face". Tooo funny, I just happened to catch it. Her mother was verrrrry grossed out.
21-FEB-2010
Today was a day of goofing off. I spent time doing things that I needed to inbetween taking photos and editing them under the ruse of homework. I picked this dandelion because I need to remember that even weeds can be beautiful, and similar to the lemon/lemonaid saying "If life throws you dandelions make dandelion wine" A sandyism. Corny huh!
20-FEB-2010
I have an old desk that I bought myself as a reward for enduring Jury duty several years back. Actually it was soooo charming and small and the price was just too good to pass up. Well, I love to sit at it and communicate with the people I love in the old fashion way, with pen, ink, paper, envelopes, and stamps. I wonder how long until this is obsolete like the stage coach and pony express. I hope not in my time. I like to write.
19-FEB-2010
A few not soooooo old stamps. One of Frank Sinatra that is the only one of that type that I recieved. I really should soak them off and catolog them but then I would have to put my camera down. Oh No!! Maybe I should give them to Dad who WILL work on them.
19-FEB-2010
Never get in the way of a frightened cat, especially a siamese. Mocha got startled when I went into the bathroom to get a tissue. She peeled out across my foot and left this nice long scratch. Not deep enough to need stitches, but plenty deep enough to bleed and sting. Go Mocha!!
17-FEB-2010
Conner has a mixture of disbelief and a little bit of amusement on his face as he sees his lunch fly away.
17-FEB-2010
As soon as we got set at the patio table to eat our lunch, my grandson proceeded with his normal practice of needing to go "potty". I knew it could be a mistake to leave our food unattended. In the past, some very efficient workers have thrown our whole brand new lunch in the trash. Today, there were different workers. When we returned, there were five little blackbirds having a great picnic on our table with chicken and french fries. As we came up they all flew off with Conner's lunch.
16-FEB-2010
We have had a great winter with more rain and snow than we have had in a very long time. Big Bear Lake got more snow at the last big storm than there has been since 1969. When I went up to the cabin it was basically buried. It took a man with a tractor about 1.5 hours to dig out the driveway. This is a view from Menifee out by the college of the local mountains. I believe Mount San Jacinto.
15-FEB-2010
We took a ride in the new Trolley system that goes from Old Town Temecula and the local mall. We had lunch at one of my favorite restuarants Rosa's Cantina. Great Polla plate.
13-FEB-2010
Sending my Valentine love to my honey in NY visiting his mom. I miss you!!! If I could figure out how to do this better I'd blow you a kiss.
13-FEB-2010
This little couple was walking together so nicely when all of a sudden something caught this gentleman's eye.
12-FEB-2010
My dad has collected stamps since the 1930's and so for years I collect what I can and then turn them over to him for cataloging. He has many albums all organized very nicely.
11-FEB-2010
This women said she goes to the San Diego Zoo almost daily and obviously has developed a relationship with this orangatan. This went on for several minutes with them communicating affection through the glass as if an inmate and his relative.
08-FEB-2010
As I was dropping Art at the airport, I decided to take a few shots down at the water near the USS Midway and the other ships and boats in the bay. Along the walk there is a collection of different artists wimsical interpetation of a tree. Very fun and creative.
07-FEB-2010
Art and Mocha love to annoy each other. Art loves to tease her and she loves to bite him. They both keep coming back for more. She is going to miss him while he's gone.
06-FEB-2010
Inspired by Marcela Mejia's great gallery I decided to qite trying to make the raindrops go away and to embrace them. I tried a lot of different things and had lots of fun with a more open mind from seeing her wonderful gallery.
05-FEB-2010
I run to get my camera any time I hear that the hawk is back out even though I know I am not going to be able to get much closer or a better shot but I keep trying and hoping. They are such great and majestic birds and I am enthralled with the thought that they will come back together year after year.
04-FEB-2010
Sparrow peaks through the lion's tail herb scrub in my herb garden. All the birds seem to love this bush. This little guy is sitting on the rim of the fountain with the water in the background.
02-FEB-2010
This is a continuous happening at the Birdie Cafe. Lots of times everybody gets along and then other times we have "discussions" and occasionally an all out fight. I love how the little female is just clinging to a corner and staying out of the way.
01-FEB-2010
My Dad gave me a cutting quite a few years back of a very old succulent that we have had in the family for many many years. While it has grown or should we say "survived" onit's own for years, this years with a little TLC from my honey it has actually bloomed. I didn't even realize it has flowers. Grandma always had a plant when I was a kid but I never remember seeing flowers. Yahoo!!
01-FEB-2010
They just never stop. I guess that is why they say busy little bees. All winter they are still here searching for what ever they can find.
30-JAN-2010
Poppa takes a photo of Lawson while Auntie takes a photo of the two of them. I seem to love taking pictures of people taking pictures. I took many that day.
29-JAN-2010
Conner plays and Grandma takes pictures. We do it all day long until Conner says, "STOP!! No more pictures now. Maybe later." He now has control of my point and shoot 5 megapixel and now I have to say, "Stop, No more pictures. Maybe later." Like after I am dressed and have my makeup on.
26-JAN-2010
Books are a huge part of my life. I love to read for pleasure and just to learn about new things. Here are a few of the ones sitting on the Family room wall.
26-JAN-2010
This guy was waiting outside my kitchen window early in the morning. Just sitting there on top of the fountain waiting for the Birdie Cafe to open.
25-JAN-2010
There are a few left here. All the hummingbirds usually migrate but there are a few left around here this winter. I am still feeding them and wondering if I am messing with the order of nature and causing any harm. I hope not, but I just can't bring myself to not put food out for them.
23-JAN-2010
They're back. I can't wait for the babies peaking out over the nest. It will be a while now but it is definitely coming.
21-JAN-2010
This little dove showed up today. I don't get too many of them, but when they do show up no one seems to mind even though they are a bigger bird then most here at Birdie Cafe. With all this rain we are getting, everything is starting to bloom and the little, almost flourescent, green blades of grass are popping up all over the orchard.
20-JAN-2010
Another day of rain, but that doesn't keep the birds away.
19-JAN-2010
It has been raining for three days, which is very unusual for sunny Southern California, but that has not stopped the revolving door of little birds showing up at the Bodacious Birdie Cafe. Who ever started the saying "Eats Like A Bird"???
18-JAN-2010
Mocha is definitely a cat! She decides exactly what she will do and when. I have a friend who always says "It's like herding cats." when ever something is impossible. I understand that perfectly. While trying to get Mocha to scoot so I could make the bed we decided to just throw the pile of covers on her and hope she would move then. No such luck. She stayed the whole time until we took them all back off of her. At one time her head was even covered. Very stubborn.
18-JAN-2010
This little guy is two and to entertain him his mom gave him a balloon to blow up and then let go. It is amazing what a great time can be had with such a simple item. It kept two boys and three adults entertained for about an hour or so.
17-JAN-2010
I need a faster and longer lens!!!!! They are spectacular. There are two and they are acting as if they are mating although I am sure it is much too early. She was up on the nest today.
16-JAN-2010
Oh no!!! I didn't take a photo today. Jump out of bed and goof off for another hour shooting first the back door stuff, Art computing (get out of here with that camera), the gingerbread house from Christmas that I won't let anyone touch, oh, what else can I find.
15-JAN-2010
While not a great photo, I am so thrilled to get a chance to see this guy most days. Sometimes he is sitting right at eye level a few feet from my car as I drive in. I am sure he is waiting for a little mouse snack to stroll by. As I struggle to get my camera gears, he is always off to continue his hunt so for now I will settle for this.
13-JAN-2010
Well we had a lot of fun that included jumping off of small stools and steps. Leaping over sister was part of the fun. All of Grandmas pillows were required and now the last few are being put away.
13-JAN-2010
It is such a quiet day with either of these two, but put them together and quiet is not in the vocabulary. A lot of wrestling and then a look up at grandma for a photo. We do have fun.
12-JAN-2010
Well the doctor told me I need to walk four miles a day. That was a couple of months ago, so today I took a two mile walk along the river bed here in town. What a wonderful place to live this Temecula - Beautiful flowers, birds, weather and people.
11-JAN-2010
What a pretty amazing little guy! Of course his sister is very used to modeling for Grandma and Mommy and Gran, three crazy Photogs!!!
11-JAN-2010
Mommy let Conner bring her little point and shoot over to Grandmas house for the day. He spent all day taking photos of everything!!! Near the end of the day, we printed some of his favorites and he made booklets for Mom, Dad and Sister. Great Day.
09-JAN-2010
Another glorious sunset in Temecula. There is something amazing to see here everyday.
07-JAN-2010
This date palm is on my property. T went out at dusk, hoping to catch a glimps of the Red Shouldered Hawk that calls my yard home, but had to settle for something that couldn't get away.
07-JAN-2010
This is a stray that I am lucky enough to have decide this is not a bad place to live. He is the sweetest dog I think I have ever met. When he takes a dog treat from your fingers he is ever so gentle making sure to not let his teeth even touch your hand. He loves to get kisses on the top of his nose.
06-JAN-2010
My granddaughter loves to pose for me and even better she loves to pose while dressing up with scarves and hats that I always have around. Her little brother got into the act too but his idea of mysterious left a little to be desired. Great fun though.
05-JAN-2010
I recieved this sheet of uncut bills in exchange for a homemade spaghetti dinner years ago. Some deal huh??
05-JAN-2010
Way back in the day, this is one of the lights I used for studio work. Boy am I antique.
02-JAN-2010
I am amusing myself these last few weeks making whimsical boxes for everyone I love. I am making the tiles out of polymer clay and stamping and or painting them. Trying to capture the essence of each person. A labor of love.
01-JAN-2010
One hot Cowboy! Wooo Wooo.