July 12, 2007 - A new arrival
Foggy this morning, with clearing and a little cooler today. Highs expected in the low 80's. I started mixing a little jelly into my suet, and was rewarded with this new visitor, which I think is an orchard oriole. He is very shy, so I had to take the shot of him on the feeder. With this photo, I now complete my 365 photos of my photo a day. It has been a worthwhile effort, as I have learned a great deal about my equipment, while being forced to pick up my camera nearly every day. I now will take a short time off, then perhaps start a new PAD. Thanks to everyone who has visited my site and gave me encouragement.
11-JUL-2007
July 11, 2007 - Oops, caught in the act
Raining and gray today, with highs in the low 80's. I slipped out on the back porch today and was watching for birds when this little bandit came out from under the porch. He had his jaws pretty well full of seeds when he spotted me. I got this shot before he scurried off.
July 10, 2007 - Elusive Damsel Fly
Hot today, with storms this afternoon. Highs were around 90. I was very busy today, and didn't get to post until this evening. On a recent walk, a came upon three damsel flies. They were very skittish and I ran them from one side of a little hollow to another, until this one finally held still long enough for me to get a shot of him.
July 9, 2007 - Cicada Killer Wasp
Foggy this morning, but expecting sunny and hot weather today, with highs in the mid-90's. I had noticed that these wasps were flying around again this year, so I went stalking them. I caught up with this one, that held still long enough for me to get a couple of quick shots off.
July 8, 2007 - My what big eyes you have
Cool this morning, but expected to get hot this afternoon, with highs in the low 90's. I was walking through the meadow below my house when this creature flew up and lit beside my foot. I had no idea what it was, but it has very interesting features. I would guess he is another model for an alien movie.
July 7, 2007 - Indigo Bunting
Cool this morning, but expecting sunny skies and very warm temps today, with highs in the upper 80's. I have been trying for about three years to get a decent shot of an indigo bunting. They are very shy little birds, and for the most part stay in the shadows and tree tops - none of which are very good camera situations. But this little guy came right down and posed for me yesterday (but only for about 15 seconds). Long enough, however, to get this one. He was very curious at the noise my camera was making as I furiously pushed the shutter button.
July 6, 2007 - Much-needed relief
We had a good rain last night. It was foggy this morning but bright and warm now, with highs to be in the low 80's. I was pleased to get this one, since these little flowers are very light and delicate and the slightest breeze will move them. I really like the color of them.
05-JUL-2007
July 5, 2007 - Thursday Totally Informal Transglobal Challenge - Country
Storms last night, and cloudy with showers today. Highs in the low 80's expected. The rain was welcomed. I couldn't think of anything that epitomized the country better than this - Welcome to Calhoun County, where we have all the luxuries.
July 4, 2007 - Independence Day
Warm and dry again today. We may get storms late this evening. It's the 231st birthday for the United States, and a holiday and a day off work for me. This is one of our more colorful holidays in America, with red, white and blue everywhere - and fireworks. Happy birthday America. May God bless her.
July 3, 2007 - Right in the middle of it
Cool this morning, but expecting highs in the upper 80's this afternoon. I have been trying to get a good shot of these unusual flowers and finally settled on this one. I like the ethereal feel to it.
July 2, 2007 - New Blooms
Partly cloudy this morning, but expecting a sunny day with highs in the low 80's. With the recent showers, a few flowers that have been lying dormant are starting to bud and bloom, including this one.
30-JUN-2007
July 1, 2007 - Female Finch
Cool this morning, but expecting it to warm up into the low 80's today. I sat quietly on the back porch yesterday evening and watched the finches eating. I finally got this one to give me a good pose.
30-JUN-2007
June 30, 2007 - Drying Out
We got some much needed rain yesterday, and things were actually a little greener today, with sunny skies and temps around 80. This little guy apparently had damp wings, and he was sitting on a leaf drying them out when I came by. Good for him, and good for me.
June 29, 2007 - A fresh face
Storms yesterday evening and last night, so it's cooler and cloudy this morning. May get some more showers today. Highs around 80. I went walking in the heat yesterday, and found this fresh face that hadn't been scorched by the relentless heat. I liked the contrast in the petals and background.
June 28, 2007 - Drought survivor
Stormy today, with highs expected in the mid 80's. Even though we received a little rain yesterday, we are under a drought advisory. Because of that, I was surprised to find this flower in such good shape. Apparently someone had been watering it.
June 27, 2007 - The King of Motorcycles
Another hot, humid day today, with highs around 90 and oppressive heat. I sat for two days and looked out my motel window at this motorcycle. So yesterday evening I went out and took a few shots of this beautiful machine.
25-JUN-2007
June 26,2007 - Swim-by Shooting
Humid this morning, and expecting it to be very warm and sunny today, with highs in the upper 80's. Traveling today, but had enough time to pst this one. I was back at Anteitam Battlefield yesterday, trying to get a shot of swallows building nests under a bridge. This goose and its companions came swimming by, so I shot them instead.
June 25, 2007 - A rare find
Warm and humid this morning. Expecting the temps in the mid 80's today and a possibility of thunderstorms. There isn't much blooming right now, and not much to visit the flowers that are blooming. Bees are scarce, so I was pleased to find this one so busy with the clover.
June 24, 2007 - A touch of yellow
Partly cloudy this morning, and expecting another dry day with highs in the low 80's. It is so dry here now that there isn't a lot of things blooming, so finding bees and butterflies isn't easy. But I caught up with this little guy yesterday and chased him all over the roadside until I finally got close enough to get a shot of him.
22-JUN-2007
June 23, 2007 - Cone Closeup
A few sprinkles yesterday afternoon, but it has already dried up. Supposed to be sunny today with highs in the mid-80's. I went for a walk yesterday and found a few flowers that weren't sunburnt or dried up from the lack of rain. Folks had obviously been watering them. I liked the center of this cone flower. You can just spiral right down into the center.
June 22, 2007 - BYOB (Bring your own Breakfast)
Another warm and dry day expected, with highs in the mid 80's. When this brown thrasher arrived at my feeders, I thought he'd come for breakfast, but instead he brought his own. He worked out on this bug and then took it and left.
June 21, 2007 - Dragonfly
Another warm, dry day with highs expected to be in the 80's. I found a little pond that still had water in it on my trip recently. It was being swarmed with dragonflies, but they weren't lighting anywhere. This one finally did.
June 20, 2007 - Whitetail a la Grass
After a stormy night, clear skies and not as hot and humid today, with highs in the low 80's. I took this one of this whitetail while on my recent trip. I was driving through a wildlife management area when she came over the hill toward the highway. I stopped the car, and she turned and went up to the first flat above the road and looked over at me. I just had an opportunity for one shot, but fortunately it turned out ok.
June 19, 2007 - Momma and her babies
Hot today, with highs in the low 90's. Storms this evening. I just got back from a short trip into the north central part of the state. I caught this momma turkey and her babies as I drove toward Stonewall Jackson Lake. She stayed around long enough for me to get this one.
June 18, 2007 - Barn Swallow
A carbon copy of yesterday, weatherwise. Warm and dry with highs in the 80's. I took a little trip up to the same area where the killdeer was, because I had seen these swallows there the last time I was there. They are rather camera shy, so this was the best one I could get of them. They are very colorful birds.
June 17, 2007 - Old Mister Hateful
Another warm, dry day today with highs in the 80's. This little hummingbird has been nicknamed "Old Mister Hateful" because he eats his fill at the feeder and then flies up to this perch right above, and attacks any other hummingbird that shows up to eat. They are really something to watch. Sometimes he'll fly out to the regular bird feeders and perch. He had a small altercation with a chickadee there. The chickadee was not intimidated.
June 16, 2007 - Wilson's Present
Weather has been the same for about a week now, very warm and dry, with highs in the 80's. Our cats are notorious for catching snakes and bringing them in to show us (sometimes in the house). Wilson brought this one in yesterday and turned it loose beside the swimming pool. I got a couple of shots of it, and then let it go, since it was already injured. Normally, it would have been really injured when I finished with it.
14-JUN-2007
June 15, 2007 - Oh to be 2 years old!
Another warm and sunny day, with highs again in the low 80's. We tend to get very complicated with our leisure, and it takes a lot to entertain us. But not a two-year-old. When was the last time a bucket with a little water in it entertained you? When is the last time you would fit in a bucket with a little water in it?
14-JUN-2007
Jun 14, 2007 - Thursdays Totally Informal Transglobal Challenge - Cloth
We had storms last night a little rain, but it's still very dry and warm. I thought I could cover two different subjects today, the Thursday challenge and the US observance of Flag Day. Happy Flag Day to everyone, and God bless the USA.
June 13, 2007 - Feeding his face
Going to be another warm day today, with highs in the 80's and a little more humidity. I slipped out to the feeders yesterday evening to see what birds were visiting, and found that this guy and a couple of his buddies were really beefing up on sunflower seeds. As you can see, he is living well on them (until one of the cats see him).
June 12, 2007 - Killdeer
Cool this morning, but expecting highs in the 80's with sunny skies. It is starting to get very dry around here, though. The creeks are drying up. I went up to a section of the neighboring county, near where my son lives, to some storage buildings a few days ago. When I arrived, these little guys were running around in the area. This time, when I went there, I took my camera.
11-JUN-2007
June 11, 2007 - New blooming lilly
Cool this morning, but expected to warm up into the 80's this afternoon. I was walking in to work this morning and saw this lilly. I didn't have my macro lens on, but I thought the 70-300 did a pretty good job with it.
June 10, 2007 - Tiny Acrobat
Another warm day today with highs in the low 80's and clear skies. The hummingbirds have returned in masse and I took a little time to sit and watch them. This little guy was in a dive bombing contest with a couple of others, and then abruptly quit and flew over to this limb and perched. I got a couple of shots of him before he returned to the fray.
09-JUN-2007
June 9, 2007 - Elizabeth's Wedding
Big storms last night, but sunny and a little cooler today, with highs around 80. I took wedding photos today for Elizabeth and Travis. I really liked the existing light photos, like this one. She was very photogenic.
June 8, 2007 - House Finch
Warm and muggy this morning. Supposed to be hot with thunderstorms this afternoon with highs in the low 90's. These birds are relatively new to my feeders. We've had the yellow finches before, but these birds haven't been there before. But several of them has found my feeders, and I got this one recently. I liked the way he had his head turned to watch the bigger birds coming in.
June 7, 2007 - Blue Jay on the Lookout
Cool this morning but expecting highs in the 80's this afternoon. I took this one yesterday. This blue jay had decided that, although he was full, he wanted to keep what was left in the feeders until later. He flew up to the top of the feeder and made aggressive overtures at any bird that headed into the feeder. He didn't intimidate the red-bellied woodpecker though.
06-JUN-2007
June 6, 2007 - Persistent Visitor
Cool and cloudy this morning, but expecting to get a high of around 80 before the day is done. We actually received a good little rain last night, so things are looking a little greener here (including the lawn). I went out this morning to feed the birds, and this guy was calling to me from a nearby tree. Withing 5 minutes of my filling the feeders, he was there. I'm having trouble keeping the racoons out of my feeders of a night, so I've had to cut back a little on the amount of bird feed I put out.
June 5, 2007 - Another survivor
Cloudy this morning and cooler. Highs today expected to be in the mid 70's. We actually got a little rain last night, but it wasn't anything significant. It has been really dry, and most of the flowers are showing it. This variety apparently is heartier and has managed to stay pretty. I like the different colors in this one.
04-JUN-2007
June 4, 2007 - New Rose
Cloudy this morning but getting some sun by mid morning. It's cooler, with temps expected to be around 80. It's breezy this morning, making it very difficult to do macro work, but I did get this one of this rose that blossomed over the weekend. We got a little rain, but not enough to make a significant difference.
03-JUN-2007
June 3, 2007 - A little butterfly
Cloudy today and we're actually getting a little rain. Temps near 80. A little butterfly hatched in my dining room this morning and I managed to get a shot of it.
02-JUN-2007
June 2, 2007 - Madison on the Slide
Another hot, muggy day, with a little rain in places this evening. Highs again were around 90. We went to the Wood Festival today, and Madison discovered the big slide. She had so much fun, I thought I was going to have to get on the slide to get her off of it. But she really had a blast playing on it. Oh to have such simple fun.
01-JUN-2007
June 1, 2007 - The heat takes its toll
Hot again today, with storms possible. Highs again near 90. The heat has really taken a toll on the flowers, but this one was in the shade, so it was still in pretty good shape.
31-MAY-2007
May 31, 2007 - Thursday Totally Informal Transglobal Challenge - Keys and Locks
Hazy and hot today, with highs near 90. My entry today is keys - the person who has the keys has the power. But having all the keys and no locks is like having all the answers but not the questions, right?
May 30, 2007 - Damsel Fly
Another hot, humid day, with temps in the high 80's and high humidity. I got a chance to walk around a couple of days ago, and there were several damsel flies around. They are, however, quite camera shy, so it took real patience to catch this one.
May 29, 2007 - Eastern Kingbird
Another hot, dry day today, with highs expected in the mid to upper 80's. I shot this one through the strands of an old woven fence at Antietam Battleground. I thought it may be a swallow of some kind, but the white band on his tail gave him away. He wasn't shy at all, and allowed me to get fairly close to get his photo.
May 28, 2007 - Memorial Day, . . . . We remember
Sunny and warm again today. Still no rain, with highs expected in the 80's. It is Memorial Day here in the U.S. - established to remember those who have given their lives to defend our country. We salute those brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice, and for those who are serving this very hour in harm's way. As I explored Antietam Battleground, thinking about the 23,000 Americans who died in one 12 hour timespan, I said a little prayer that we, in this country, never gather together again to kill each other. God bless our service men and service women.
May 27, 2007 - Muddy Creek Falls
Partly cloudy and hot today, with temps in the 80's and the humidity creeping up. I took this one on my trip this week. This is another one of those places I always wanted to visit. This falls in located in Swallowtail Falls State Park near Oakland, Maryland. It was on my route to the eastern panhandle this week. It is a beautiful falls, and I have plans of visiting again this fall.
May 26, 2007 - Eastern Bluebird
Warm and sunny again today, with highs again in the 80's. We could really use some rain. I shot this little guy at Antietam Battleground too. He was sitting on the top post of a split rail fence, and his body language was almost challenging. I was quite amused and happy, since he let me get fairly close to get a shot of him.
May 25, 2007 - Artillery Placement, Ridge over Harpers Ferry Road
Warm and sunny again today. A carbon copy of yesterday, with highs again to get into the 80's. Still trying to recover from my trip to the eastern panhandle and the long drive back very early this morning. There were so many great shots to be taken at Antietam Battlefield. I liked this 'high ground' look with the strategicly placed artillery near the place of the final fighting.
24-MAY-2007
May 24, 2007 - Tree Swallow
Bright, warm and sunny today, with highs in the 80's. I got back from my trip in the early hours of the morning, but took the time to post this one of a tree swallow. I shot this one at the Antietam National Battleground just across the West Virginia border at Sharpsburg, Maryland. This was the first time I had visited this site, and spent hours there taking photos and reading about this bloody Civil War battle. More to come.
May 23, 2007 - Recent bloomer
Foggy this morning, but expected to burn off and get hot today with highs near 90. These were not in bloom when I walked one day, but were out in full bloom the next. I'm not sure what they are, other than they were pretty. I will be on a business trip starting today, but I'll catch up on comments when I return.
22-MAY-2007
May 22, 2007 - Yellow Bud
Warm and sunny this morning, and expecting the temps to get into the 80's this afternoon. I found this little yellow rose bud as I went for my morning walk. The hot sun has not been kind to the roses, so I wonder how this one will look when it comes out into full flower. I like the yellow roses, and these are a bright, rich shade.
21-MAY-2007
May 21, 2007 - One of the last of the peonies
Warm and sunny today, with highs near 80. I was very busy (as usual) today, but took a little time to walk down the street from my office. This was the last of the peonies to be standing up. They get so heavy they droop down on the ground. I loved the color of this one.
©2007 Rich Westfall
May 20, 2007 - Mike James' Old Log Barn
Sunny this morning, but cloudy this afternoon with the possibility of a shower. Highs in the upper 60's. Kind of gloomy out, and I am fighting with my allergies. So I posted this one of an old log barn on Mike James' property. We walked by this one on our way to the pink ladyslippers. I like the texture of the weather-beaten boards.
19-MAY-2007
May 19, 2007 - Daisey up close
Cool this morning, but expecting to warm into the upper 60's this afternoon with lots of sunshine. I took a little walk this morning, and the daiseys were blooming everywhere. I liked this one because the center of the daisey is so interesting.
18-MAY-2007
May 18, 2007 - Flower Experiment
Cloudy and cool today. Expecting highs in the mid 60's. There was a little breeze blowing today as well as it being cool, so flower photography was a little difficult. But I did get this one, and then tried a little septia look on it.
May 17, 2007 - Good Rose Weather
Cloudy and cool this morning, with highs expected today near 70 and the possibility of storms. A surprising cooldown today from yesterday, and we did receive much needed rain. The cool and cloudy weather is good for the roses, and they are starting to bloom everywhere, including this bud that I found earlier this week.
May 16, 2007 - Young Sentry
Cloudy today with showers. Highs are supposed to be around 70. It is a welcome rain, but I don't beleive there is going to be much to it. I caught this young cardinal sitting on top of the feeder watching out. The light was so contrasty that it made the shot almoust look like a studio shot.
15-MAY-2007
May 15, 2007 - Flame Azalea
Very warm today and partly cloudy, with highs in the mid to upper 80's. I have been fighting allergies today, so I didn't wander very far. These grow around the bank below my house. They are absolutely beautiful, but the wind seems to always be blowing when I try to shoot them. This one didn't turn out too bad.
May 14, 2007 - Pink Lady's Slipper
Cool this morning, but expecting warm temps and sun today, with highs in the low 80's. Some of my church friends took me back on top of a ridge on their father's property to where these grow. They are relatively rare, so it was a real treat to see several growing and out in full bloom. They are an unusual flower, but beautiful nonetheless.
May 13, 2007 - Yellow Star Grass
Cool this morning with lows in the mid 40's, but expecting a sunny day and highs in the low 70's. I stopped at a church I used to pastor yesterday and looked for these. They are very difficult to expose correctly. I didn't do a real good job on it, but you can see some of the details in the beautiful little flower. I also realize that I'm behind on my comments to other pbasers, but I'll catch up soon. Happy Mother's Day everyone!
May 12, 2007 - Painted Trillium, Up Close and Personal
Cloudy this morning, but I don't expect much of any rain. Highs supposed to be around 80. We could use some rain. These trilliums grow in more mountainous terrain, so I shot this one on my trip this week. I was pleased to find them more abundant than last year. I thought the centers had an interesting shape.
May 11, 2007 - Showy Orchis
Partly cloudy today with highs expected to be around 80. Maybe a thunderstorm this afternoon. When I went to the mountains this past week, one of the flowers I was aiming to get a shot of was this species. I only know of one place where these grow. They were in abundance, but some had been bitten by recent frost. They are one of the native orchids in West Virginia.
May 10, 2007 - Ill-scented Trillium
Partly cloudy today with highs in the low 80's. Having a very busy day today, so I posted this one that I took yesterday on my trip to the mountains. In the valleys, these were already gone, but on the top ridges of the mountains, they were just coming out. So you could go a matter of a couple of miles and see completely different flora. A fun experience.
09-MAY-2007
May 9, 2007 - A surprise visitor
Warm and sunny today, with highs in the low 80's. A friend of mine and I took a little photo safari into the mountains. When we stopped at Cranberry Glades, we were photographing trilliums and marsh marigolds when this fellow showed up. He looked to be a yearling, and he really wasn't very afraid of us. We were pretty close, but of course I didn't have the right lens on my camera, so this is cropped. But it still turned out pretty well.
May 8, 2007 - Crested Iris
Cool again this morning, but expected to get warm this afternoon, with highs near 80 this afternoon. I finally got a shot of one of these. It seemed like every time I went out to try to shoot these little flowers, the wind was blowing. But I managed to shoot this one between wind gusts.
May 7, 2007 - Clematis Center
Cool this morning, with scattered frost in the area. Highs today are expected to be in the low 70's and sunshine. A lady right up the street from my work has two different types of clematis growing, and I liked the sea creature look of the center of this variety.
May 6, 2007 - Brown Thrasher
Sunny today with highs expected to be around 70. I caught this guy lurking around the edge of the yard. I had at first thought it was a Northern Flicker, but checked my bird book and decided it is a brown thrasher. His name sounds like a WWF wrestler. He is a big bird, around a foot long.
05-MAY-2007
May 5, 2007 - Jack in the Pulpit
Partly sunny this morning, but clouding over this afternoon and probably going to rain. Highs around 70. I got a chance to take a walk up where the lady's slippers grow. Unfortunately, it looks like someone dug them up (there were just a few). I am really disappointed in the situation. I did find this jack in the pulpit along the way.
May 4, 2007 - May Apple
Drizzling rain this morning, and showers expected off and on most of the day. Highs around 70. A wet dreary morning, and lots of work to do, so I decided to post this one that I took a little earlier this week. May Apple are difficult to photograph until their leaves drop off. Then you have to catch them quickly, as the blooms fade shortly afterward. They are beautiful, though.
02-MAY-2007
May 3, 2007 - Rose Breasted Grosbeak (Female)
Showers this morning, with highs supposed to be around 70 today. Late yesterday afternoon this female grosbeak came into the feeder. They are very camera shy, and so I had to stay back a little farther than I wanted. This is a pretty heavy crop, but it is good enough to see that she too is beautiful.
02-MAY-2007
May 2, 2007 - Rose-Breasted Grosbeak
Clouds and sun today, with a couple of showers around. Highs in the 70's. I've been trying to get a shot of these birds for a couple of weeks now. We have never had them around here before, so I was pretty excited when they showed up. This isn't a perfect picture of them, but gives you some idea of how beautiful they are.
May 1, 2007 - Another variety of columbine
Clear this morning. Expecting sun and very warm temps today, with highs expected in the upper 80's. Three weeks ago today we were having the threat of snow, and today it may hit 90 degrees. Strange weather. The suddenly hot sun is rough on some of the tender plants, but this columbine seemed to be thriving in this weather. It was difficult to shoot though, because it moved with every little touch of breeze.
April 30, 2007 - Large Flowering Trillium
Cool this morning, but expecting very warm temps and sun today, with highs supposed to be in the low 80's. I've been trying to get the time to shoot these before they all finished blooming, but it seemed that every time I tried, the wind wouldn't cooperate. I finally got this one yesterday between the wind gusts.
29-APR-2007
April 29, 2007 - White Violet
A beautiful, sunny day today with temps in the upper 70's. The problem today, though, was that there was a breeze blowing, which made it very difficult to do macro shots. I had church meetings most of the day, but got a chance this evening to go out for a short while and shoot this one, between gusts of wind.
April 28, 2007 - Dwarf Larkspur
Cloudy this morning and cool. Highs expected in the mid 60's. I've been watching for these to come out, and I was driving home and saw a small patch of color. So, as any photography addict would do, I turned my car around, went back and climbed up the bank in my dress clothes and took this shot. I wonder if there is a therapy group for this. Maybe I could come and do a photo shoot of it.
April 27, 2007 - Azalea Time
Cloudy and a little cooler today, with a few showers around. Highs expected to be in the mid 60's. I saw these flowers and thought at first that they were roses, but instead I think they are a variety of azalea. Regardless, they are beautiful.
26-APR-2007
April 26, 2007 - Thursday's Informal Transglobal Challenge - Fingers and Thumbs
Partly cloudy here this morning, but expecting warm weather and possible strong storms this afternoon, with highs in the upper 70's. These are some of my favorite fingers. Unfortunately, these mysteriously disappeared right after the photo shoot.
April 25, 2007 - Columbine
Cloudy today with showers and storms expected. Highs again in the mid 70s. I am expecting a busy day today, so I posted this one that I took yesterday. Once again, I was working with a shallow DOF, but liked the colors of this one. These are beautiful flowers, and although this one was domesticated, it is very similar to the native columbines we have here in West Virginia.
24-APR-2007
April 24, 2007 - Another yellow one
Cloudy today but warm, with a few showers around. Highs are supposed to be in the 70's again. With the overcast sky and still winds, it's a good day for shallow depth of field shots. Like this one, for example.
April 23, 2007 - Hairy Woodpecker pose
Warm, partly cloudy today, with a few scattered showers this evening. Highs in the mid-70's. I went to my photoshop class today and hopefully picked up a few ideas that will improve my images. I shot this one yesterday. He wasn't a bit shy and came in really close. I like it when they do that.
April 22, 2007 - Yellow Violet
Another beautiful, cloudless day with highs in the 70's. Two straight days (on a weekend no less) that we've had great weather. I shot this one yesterday. I always find it amusing that you have the contradictions of yellow and violet in the same name. You'll notice right around the edges of the petals that we have had a frost or two recently, but it is still a pretty little flower. Going to a Photoshop training tomorrow, so hoping I can learn a little more about it.
21-APR-2007
April 21, 2007 - Golden Ragwort (Squaw Weed)
Clear blue sky today with temps around 70. A beautiful day here today, and I actually got some of my yard work done. Afterwards I took a little walk and discovered that these were blooming. They are difficult to photograph, because they sit on a high stalk that moves with even the slightest of winds. It takes patience to get a decent shot.
April 20, 2007 - Star of Bethlehem (I think)
Cloudy this morning but expecting sun and warm temps today, with highs in the 60's. I found a few of these growing in a vacant lot. I believe they are stars of bethlehem, but not entirely sure. I do know they are beautiful little flowers, with the yellow center and the pure white petals.
19-APR-2007
April 19, 2007 - Thursday's Totally Informal Transglobal Challenge - Seven
Partly sunny this morning, but supposed to be a chance of showers today, with highs in the 50's. My challenge photo today represents how much change I got back when I filled my car up this morning for my commute to work. Gasoline is still hovering around $3.00 a gallon.
April 18, 2007 - White Azalea
Cloudy today with rain possible this afternoon. Highs to be around 60. I'm having a very busy day today, so I posted this one that I took yesterday. Many of the azaleas didn't get bit by the cold or are producing new blooms since the cold weather moderated. I really liked this white one. I like the texture of the petals.
17-APR-2007
April 17, 2007 - White for Hope
Sunny today with temps moderating into the 60's and not nearly as windy. I took this one this morning, and I had in mind as I post this the victims and families of those involved in the tragedy at Virginia Tech. My heartfelt prayers go out to those families, as I am a father of a young man not much older than many of the victims of that tragic shooting. Please know that we will seek God's face in your behalf.
April 16, 2007 - Sometimes it pays to be different
Very cool this morning but expected to moderate today, and the rains have finally stopped. But fortunately, we didn't have any snow here. In a whole bed of white tulips, this one guy stood up and caught my eye.
April 15, 2007 - Long Spurred Violet
A cold wet day with hard rain and some flooding. Temps in the mid 40's this afternoon. It was just too nasty to take my equipment out, so I posted this one I took a couple of days ago. With all the cool weather, I was surprised that these were up and blooming.
14-APR-2007
April 14, 2007 - The Finches have turned
Rainy and cool today, with highs in the upper 40's. Although it has drizzled rain most of the day, it is a relatively bright overcast day, so there is some light. I was trying to get a shot of a towhee this afternoon (and do plan to do so eventually) but shot this male finch who has pretty well turned completely to his bright summer color.
© 2007 - Rich Westfall
April 13, 2007 - Friday the 13th
Cloudy today, but less windy. Highs are expected to be in the 50's. Cold, rainy weather expected for the weekend. Since it is Friday the 13th, I got to thinking about what I could shoot that would be appropriate. Buster reluctantly held still long enough for me to get this portrait of him.
12-APR-2007
April 12, 2007 - Thursday's Totally Informal Transglobal Challenge - Today's News
Windy today with occasional showers. Highs in the 50's. I chose this one because it is today's news, yesterday's news, and tomorrow's news, the good news of God's love toward mankind.
© 2007 - Rich Westfall
April 11, 2007 - Return of the sun and flowers
Not nearly as cool this morning, with highs today to be in the 50's and rain. Late yesterday evening we got a little hazy sun, which gave out a nice soft light. I took advantage of it and shot this one of a fringed tulip that not only survived the cold of the weekend but is blooming.
April 10, 2007 - White Dogwood Survivor
Sunny and a little warmer today, with highs in the upper 40's. I had doctor's appts today so I didn't get to go out and shoot anything. So this is one I took yesterday of one of the white dogwood blossoms. It hadn't been affected too much by the cold.
09-APR-2007
April 9, 2007 - Reaching for the sky
Still cold, but moderating slightly, with highs expected to be in the mid to upper 40's. Even though we had snow this weekend, things continue to grow. These ferns continue to reach upward toward the sky, and I was impressed at how hearty they must be. Still gives us a little hope.
08-APR-2007
April 8, 2007 - Tough tulips
It hardly got above freezing yesterday, and has been cold today as well. Highs around 40. When I went to church this morning, the tulips were all lying on the ground. But when I got home, some had stood up, including this one. They are tough, but still have at least one more cold night to go.
07-APR-2007
April 7, 2007 - Killer Snow
It got down to 22 degrees this morning and snowed. Anything that was blooming was killed. It's sad, and probably the latest I've seen a measurable snow, but it is a part of nature. I was afraid that this would happen when everything came out early. I shot the death bow of one of my tulips. They are nearly all flat on the ground with snow on them this morning.
April 6, 2007 - The Capitol as I saw it
Below freezing again this morning, and expecting snow showers this evening. Highs are not supposed to get above the low 40's. So, what makes a successful photo? I guess every photographer answers that question from their own perspective. I take some photos that are dead one technically, some that please me from an artist's perspective, but a successful photo, in my way of thinking, is one that accurately depicts what I saw in my mind when I looked through the viewfinder. This one meets that criteria.
April 5, 2007 - Thursday's Totally Informal Transglobal Challenge - Bunnies, Bonnets, and Eggs
Cold this morning, with temps around 30. Highs today only supposed to get into the mid 40's. Probably a death knell for the flowers out in bloom. Today's subject is Wanda's eggs. One of our secretary's hand-painted wooden eggs. Everyone who stops by her cubicle look at them. They fit inside each other.
04-APR-2007
April 4, 2007 - Brown-headed Cowbird, Male
Started out in the 60's this morning but the temps are dropping. Maybe going to get snow flurries by this evening. With this weather front moving through, the birds were very active. I finally got a shot at one of these wary birds. Not my best shot, but they are very difficult to catch.
April 3, 2007 - White Tulip
Cool this morning but expected to be in the low 80's today. It's going to be the last warm day for several days, according to weather reports. I loved the clarity of this tulip, and converted it to black and white, except for the center, to catch the eye.
02-APR-2007
April 2, 2007 - New Yellow Tulip
Warm, sunny and breezy today, with highs near 80. These will be the last couple of days with this type of weather, so I tried to take advantage of the time and shoot tulips. These had just come out the last couple of days, and I like the yellows and greens in this one.
April 1, 2007 - Creeping Phlox
Big storms but very warm, with highs near 80. Our power was off and I didn't get to post this until late. These are blooming a little early with the unusually warm weather. My mother had a whole bank full of these, and I still love them.
31-MAR-2007
March 31, 2007 - Pear tree blossum
Occasional rain showers today, with highs near 70. Along with everything blooming has come my allergies - so I didn't spend a lot of time outside. But I found that the pear trees were blooming. They always bloom early and get frost bit. Hoping that it doesn't happen this year.
March 30, 2007 - Study in White
Cool this morning, but expected to reach 70 this afternoon, with partly cloudy skies. The tulips are starting to open up, and I liked the way these looked together.
29-MAR-2007
March 29, 2007 - Thursday's Totally Informal Transglobal Challenge - At Your Feet
Rain this morning, but sunny this afternoon and a little cooler. Highs in the upper 60's. I had to sit on a panel in a meeting all day, so I didn't get to go exploring in order to meet this week's challenge. But I did have a couple of things in mind, and this bug's eye view of the yard with the little cinquefoil was one of them. This is the view of my yard, at my feet.
28-MAR-2007
March 28, 2007 - Female Cowbird (I Think)
Early sun, but starting to cloud over. Expecting rain this afternoon. Highs in the 70's. I've been watching these birds around my feeders for some time, and knew they were females of one of the spring birds. I believe they are female cowbirds, because the males were with them. The come and sit in the feeders and eat with little fear. I guess it's because they are around farm animals and farmers.
March 27, 2007 - More spring flowers
Cloudy today and warm, with some scattered showers around. Temps expected to be back near 80 again today. With this unusually warm and moist weather, the spring flowers are really coming out. Unfortunately, it is very early for many of them, and I'm sure we haven't seen the last frost. Nevertheless, they are beautiful, and I found these on my walk yesterday. I'm not sure what they are, other than they are very eye catching.
March 26, 2007 - Tulips start to bloom
Warm again today with highs expected near 80 degrees. With the warm weather and occasional rain, flowers are continuing to come out, including the tulips. Lots of subjects to shoot now, and many more to come.
24-MAR-2007
March 25, 2007 - New Neighbors
Sunny and warm today, with highs in the upper 70's. One of the sure signs of spring is when our neighbors who nest in the little house on the point come back. I realize that this is not a perfect shot, but it was the best I could get given the poor lighting from yesterday. Both this guy and his mate were busy building in the bluebird box yesterday and today.
23-MAR-2007
March 24, 2007 - Madison Goes Continental
Warm today, with rain showers in the area. Highs in the 70's again today. Madison is spending the weekend with us, and she decided to show off her new sunglasses by giving me her continental look.
March 23, 2007 - Early Beauty
Cloudy today, but warm, with highs in the 70's. Expecting more showers today. With the rain we got last night and the warm temps, everything is greening up and blooming. These (which I think are Magnolia trees) bloom early and are very delicate. Any cold weather or frost will make them turn brown. So the trick is to catch them when they reach full bloom but before they are bitten. I caught this one in such a state.
22-MAR-2007
March 22, 2007 - Bustin' Out
Warm today and partly sunny. Highs in the 70's. With the onslaught of warmer weather, everything is beginning to bust out, and the sound of lawnmowers can be heard in the distance. The ornamental fruit trees are starting to bloom, as evidenced by this shot.
March 21, 2007 - Daffodil
Warm and sunny today, with highs in the upper 60's. It was a beautiful day today, and I wish that I could have spent it afield with a camera. However, I spent the day gathering and printing photos to send with a friend to New Jersey to sell. So, since I was too busy to get out and shoot anything today, I posted this one that I took earlier this week. I used the longer lens and that allowed for a shallower depth of field.
March 20, 2007 - A seat reserved
Raining this morning, but expected to clear during the day, with highs in the upper 50's. I was out looking for early spring flowers yesterday when I saw this old weathered chair sitting in the remnants of a flower garden. I thought that it would be a great place to sit in a few weeks, but looked a little barren right now (that's why I chose black and white).
19-MAR-2007
March 19, 2007 - Survivor
Cloudy and cool today, but expecting it to warm into the upper 50's and rain by evening. I found these little guys this morning, and they had managed to survive the snow over the weekend. I think they are interesting little flowers.
18-MAR-2007
March 18, 2007 - Return of the Redwings
Snow last night, with a coating on the ground. But it's sunny today and the temps in the low 40's, so the snow is melting away. Although it didn't look like it this morning, spring is nearly here, as evidenced with the return of the redwings and the grackles. The wind was blowing this afternoon, and I had a tarp on the back porch that was snapping at the most inappropriate times, and scaring off the birds. So I went out and took it down. Within 15 minutes I got this shot of the shy redwings.
March 17, 2007 - Curious Mockingbird
Cold with snow flurries. Highs expected to be around 40. Another poor weather day, so I decided to post this one that I took earlier this week. I was walking under a tree and unexpectantly I spied this guy watching me curiously. He didn't fly and I got really close to him to get the shot.
13-MAR-2007
March 16, 2007 - American Idol
Rainy, dreary day with highs around 40 degrees. Too nasty to get my equipment out in the rain, so I posted this one I took earlier this week. This little sparrow was singing his heart out when I passed by and he had a beautiful voice. He paused long enough to look at me, and I caught him at that moment.
14-MAR-2007
March 15, 2007 - American Coot
Cloudy today, and expecting rain and cooler temps. It's starting out near 60, but temps supposed to drop during the day. I got a chance to do a little birding yesterday afternoon, and went to Big Ditch Lake. This duck was in a secondary pond. I think it's a female coot, but I'm not entirely sure. It's bill kind of gives it away. Not a perfect shot, but fun to try to shoot her.
14-MAR-2007
March 14, 2007 - Redheaded Woodpecker Portrait
Rainy this morning, with highs reaching in the low 60's. The rain kind of spoiled my plans, but I did get to patrol the feeders today. This woodpecker has decided that the suet feeders are his territory, and he's running the red bellies, hairys, and downys away when they come to eat. He hollers and hollers before he comes in, warning me so that I can get ready to shoot.
March 13, 2007 - White Crocus
Mostly cloudy today but warm. Highs expected to get near 70. I realize that I have posted some crocus photos recently, but I really liked this white one. The texture of the petals and the contrast of light and dark really appealed to me.
11-MAR-2007
March 12, 2007 - Upper Falls, Holly River State Park
Another beautiful day today, with sun and temps in the 60's. I took this one yesterday, using as wide a view as I could. This effect is why I wanted the EF 10-22 lens.
11-MAR-2007
March 11, 2007 - Holly River State Park
A beautiful day today, with bright sunny skies and temps in the 50's. We had our granddaughter this weekend, so as I was taking her home this afternoon, I decided to go exploring. I ended up at Holly River State Park. The little waterfalls in the park had plenty of water with the recent rains and the snow melt. I decided to try black and white with this one.
March 10, 2007 - Changing Finches
Mostly cloudy today but warm, with highs in the low 60's. The finches are starting to take on their summer colors, and this one is just starting to change.
March 9, 2007 - Hairy Woodpecker
Supposed to be partly cloudy today with highs getting up into the upper 50's. I shot this one the other day, and realized afterward that it was too big to be the downy woodpecker. So I got my bird book out and realized that since he made two of the downy, that he must be the hairy woodpecker. He really likes the berry suet.
07-MAR-2007
March 8, 2007 - Red Bellied Portrait
Sunny and cold this morning, with lows in the mid 20's. Supposed to get near 50 today. I took this guy's portrait yesterday as he came in for some suet. The red-headed woodpecker doesn't like him very well, and usually runs him off, but not this time.
March 7, 2007 - Struggles of Nature
Cold today and expecting a mix of rain and snow. Highs supposed to be in the 30's. Spring continues to struggle to get a foot hold here, and it is making it difficult for the early flowers. It's interesting to see how these crocuses push and struggle to get through the brambles and vines in order to open up and bloom. But they do seem to make it in many instances.
March 6, 2007 - Sentry
Cold this morning and going to continue to be cold today, with highs around 40. I went for my noon walk yesterday to try to get a shot of the American Kestral I've been seeing. Unfortunately, that didn't work out, but four American Crows were foraging on the river bank. Three of them were on the ground, and this one was on sentry in the tree. He cawed at me as soon as I was in sight, but surprisingly allowed me to get pretty close to him. Thus this offering.
05-MAR-2007
March 5, 2007 - Flower petal
Cool today and breezy, with highs expected in the upper 40's. I had figured with the little coating of snow yesterday, that these little irises would have been ruined. But thankfully, they seem to be quite hardy, as more were blooming this morning than had been last Friday. I thought a closeup of one of the petals would be interesting.
04-MAR-2007
March 4, 2007 - March weather
A coating of snow awaited me this morning when I got out of bed, but it melted pretty quickly. Cold and windy now, with temps around 40. This is typical March weather around here. With church and other things dominating my day, I only had time for a few feeder shots. These guys were dominating the feeders, so I got this one to pose. Notice that he's got his sunflower seed under his foot.
March 3, 2007 - Church Steeple, Baptist Temple, Charleston
Windy and cool today with mixed clouds and sun. Started out near 50, but has cooled down into the low 40's. I have looked at this church steeple from several angles, but finally chose this one as I walked down Quarrier Street. I like the clouds in the background.
March 2, 2007 - Snow Drops
Windy this morning, with highs expected to be about 50. It definitely feels like March today, and it seems more appropriate to fly kites than to take photos. But I ran across these the other day while looking for my little crocus friends. I thought they were interesting.
27-FEB-2007
March 1, 2007 - Further Evidence
Cloudy this morning and expecting thunderstorms this afternoon. Highs expected to be in the 60's. Caught this one the other day as further evidence that spring is nearby.
27-FEB-2007
February 28, 2007 - Sign of Spring
A cool night but expecting a sunny day with highs in the 50's. This is a sure sign of spring - the crocus appearance. I was delighted to see these little guys peeking their heads up out of the ground. So very much looking forward to spring flowers.
25-FEB-2007
February 27, 2007 - Curious lady
Cloudy again today, but supposed to be a little warmer, with highs near 50. I took this one last weekend of this female cardinal who was looking at me as if to say, "Human, what are you pointing at me?"
25-FEB-2007
February 26, 2007 - Bad Hair Day
Cool and cloudy today, with highs expected to be in the low 40's. It was very windy yesterday - so much so that even this cardinal's hairdo was blown over. I think that the birds in my feeders were having to hold on with both feet to keep from being blown from their perches.
25-FEB-2007
February 25, 2007 - Madison doing yard work
Rain this morning, but sunny and breezy this afternoon. Highs near 60. Madison and her grandma went out into the yard to pick up some of the limbs and sticks from the winter. I got this one of her as she went about her work (big fun for her).
24-FEB-2007
February 24, 2007 - Red-Headed Woodpecker
Sunny and cool today, with temps in the high 40's. I had never had one of these come in to my feeders before, but I had switched suet to fruit suit, and I've been getting several new birds. I was thrilled when this one arrived. Not the best photo, but he was very shy.
21-FEB-2007
February 23, 2007 - Mallard Portrait
Cool and cloudy this morning, with temps in the low 30's. Expected to be breezy again today with highs in the mid 40's. I took this one during the week, as these guys were all up out of the water and hunting for food in the grass.
19-FEB-2007
February 22, 2007 - Quizical Junco
Mild this morning with temps around 40. Expecting highs around 50 today. I took this little guy's photo a few days ago. He came into the feeders and hopped right over to my back porch. He looks like he's about to say something - probably wanting more seeds put out.
21-FEB-2007
February 21, 2007 - Practicing safe singing
Foggy, gray day with temps in the 40's. I just happened to look over the bank today while on my noon walk, and saw this little guy sitting on the edge of this sign. I didn't realize what the sticker on the sign said until I got back and looked at the image. He was singing his heart out, but doing it safely.
19-FEB-2007
February 20, 2007 - Church at Bulltown
Warm today, with highs reaching close to 50. A far cry from the weather we have been enduring. I took a little trip yesterday to Bulltown, which is a historical area in Braxton County. This little church probably wouldn't have seated more than 20 people. A very nice restoration.
19-FEB-2007
February 19, 2007 - Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker
Very cold again this morning with lows around 2 above zero. Supposed to warm up today into the 40's, and hopefully the very cold weather is going away. I think I got this one right - this classification is the only one that even came close to this fellow, who sat there all spread out and dared the blue jays to come close.
17-FEB-2007
February 18, 2007 - White-Throated Sparrow
Cold, windy day with snow showers. Highs in the low 20's. A nasty day after between one and two inches of snow last night. Some blowing and drifting snow today. I had plans of going out for awhile this afternoon, but the weather just isn't cooperating, so I posted this one I took yesterday. My coworker Cecil Gardner got a shot of some of these, and I've been watching for them here where I live. This one showed up yesterday.
17-FEB-2007
February 17, 2007 - Posing Bluejay
Cold again this morning, with lows around 10 above zero. Supposed to get into the mid 20's today and, as you can see from the photo, we're getting some snow. I've been trying to get a good shot of the blue jays for a little while now, but they are fairly elusive. But this one came in and posed for me.
16-FEB-2007
February 16, 2007 - Where is Spring?
Another frigid morning, with lows around 10 above. Expecting it to get into the mid-20's today. These poor flowers starting coming out when it was so warm, and unfortunately have been caught out in this bitter cold snap.
February 15, 2007 - School's Out
A bright, sunny but cold day. Lows this morning around 10, and colder tonight. Temps up into the low 20's this afternoon. I've had a busy day, and posted this one I took recently of what I believe to be an old schoolhouse. Obviously, school's been out for awhile. I used Virtual Photographer filter to give it a dreamlike look, then converted to Black and White. I think it looks like a photo taken with an old Brownie camera.
14-FEB-2007
February 14, 2007 - Frozen in Mid-Drip
Weather started out with rain early, then sleet, and now snow, with temps dropping. It's already down to 20, and expected to go lower during the day with pretty stiff winds. I was off work today but took my wife to work, since the roads were slick. I saw a couple patches of thistles along the way and came back and got my camera. I went to the places where I shot the butterflies this summer, and happened to see this water drop. The temps cooled so quickly this morning that it froze before it could drip. The thistle head had broken off and was pointing straight down. Stay safe and warm and have a happy Valentine's Day.
13-FEB-2007
February 13, 2007 - That Dreaded Dollar
Snow, freezing rain, and sleet today. A really nasty start to the day, but mostly changing to rain now. Highs in the mid 30's. I'll still trying to stave off this cold, and stayed home from work today. So I decided to try this shot since the weather was so nasty. This is the dreaded Susan B. Anthony dollar. The US Treasury introduced them in the 90's, but quit producing them because folks who couldn't see real well (like me), were mistaking them for quarters. Not many around now, but we kept a few in case they become valuable one day.
07-FEB-2007
February 12, 2007 - A real beauty
Not as cold today, with lows around 10 this morning and warming up to about 40. However, the weather people are talking about an ice storm. I hope and pray it doesn't happen. I have been fighting a cold bug for a couple of days and decided not to go out in the weather today. So I posted this one of this real beauty. I hope I can get back there to it before someone buys it out from under me.
10-FEB-2007
February 11, 2007 - Still icicle time
The cold snap continued, with temps 2 above zero this morning. It has been cloudy all day with highs in the low 20's. We are expecting a winter storm in the next couple of days. With church and with having our grand daughter today, I haven't had much time to take photos, so I posted this one that I took yesterday. We have plenty of these around.
10-FEB-2007
February 10, 2007 - Curious Chickadee
Cold again this morning with lows of 4 above zero. But it did warm to about 30 this afternoon. I was looking for some different shots this afternoon when this little guy flew in and tried to figure out what I was doing. He then got angry at me and let me know with a verbal tirade that he didn't appreciate me bothering him when he was hungry.
February 9, 2007 - Hay Bales
Very cold again last night, with lows at 2 above zero. It has moderated a little today, with sunshine and temps in the high 20's. I have been feeling a little under the weather today, so I decided to post this one that I took earlier this week. Hopefully, my back will be well enough for a little more exploring soon.
February 8, 2007 - Frozen Creek
Temps fell last night to one above zero. Expecting them to moderate some after today. Highs supposed to make it to the mid-20's. I went exploring yesterday, and after getting my feet wet in the creek (the creek water is very cold this time of year), I got this shot.
07-FEB-2007
February 7, 2007 - Betty and Nate
Snow last night, with about 4 inches falling. It had ended by dawn, and partly cloudy today. Temps in the low 20's. We spent the morning clearing the driveway - me with the shovel and Betty with the snow blower. I was out playing with my wide angle lens, and took this portrait of Betty and Nate as we were about finished.
05-FEB-2007
February 6, 2007 - A vehicle accident
Bitterly cold last night, with lows at my house of -5 degrees. It is supposed to warm up a little today and snow. This type of weather causes a lot of accidents on our streets, like this one here. Apparently no one had called for a tow truck yet when I took this photo.
05-FEB-2007
February 5, 2007 - Cold Seat
One of the coldest nights last night in several years, with temps around 7 degrees (F) and a stiff breeze. Sunny today, but temps are not supposed to get out of the teens,and possibly get down to zero tonight. I didn't spend much time outside this morning, but saw this old metal chair sitting in a snow-covered flower garden. Thought the black and white treatment was appropriate.
03-FEB-2007
February 4, 2007 - Young Cardinal
Snow flurries this morning, but sunny and cold this afternoon. Highs in the low 20's. It has been windy the last couple of days, and this young cardinal was having a difficult time staying on the perch while eating sunflower seeds.
03-FEB-2007
February 3, 2007 - Carolina Wren (I think)
Snow this morning and then sunny and blustery this afternoon. Highs around 30. I shot this little fellow this afternoon, at first thinking it was a species of sparrow. But after doing a little research, I believed it is a winter wren. Thanks to those who then helped me identify him as a Caronlina Wren. I have seen him around before, but never got the opportunity to get a shot of him.
01-FEB-2007
February 2, 2007 - Portrait
A cold, raw damp day with temps around 30. I took this one yesterday of this guy swimming away from me on the Kanawha River. Just as I was about to give up on him, he turned and gave me this opportunity.
31-JAN-2007
February 1, 2007 - Artillery Piece
Not as cold this morning, but a little light snow. Temps in the upper 20's. I took this one yesterday at Carnifex Ferry Battleground. I like this old artillery piece, and it sits up on a rise overlooking the whole battleground area. This was the site of one of the major Civil War battles in West Virginia.
31-JAN-2007
January 31, 2007 - An original snow cone
Very cold this morning, with a few flurries. Temps this morning were around 10. I was getting ready to go see if I could find some snow shots, when I saw this pine cone nearly buried in the snow. I thought it was appropriate material for the dead of winter.
25-JAN-2007
January 30, 2007 - Abstract
Cloudy and not quite as cold today. Expecting a little snow. Temps in the 20's. I took this photo by shooting straight up into the capitol dome. I liked the different colors.
27-JAN-2007
January 29, 2007 - My Little Cowgirl
Very cold this morning, with lows around 12 at my house. Temps expected to get into the upper 20's this afternoon. We've also had a couple of inches of snow. We were very busy yesterday and didn't get to post a photo. I took this one this past weekend. Madison really took a liking to her cowgirl hat, so we got her to pose for us.
27-JAN-2007
January 27, 2007 - Mail Pouch Barn near Spencer, WV
Warmer and sunny most of the day, then clouds moved in late. Highs around 50. I got a chance to try out my new lens on this mail pouch barn. I hadn't been able to get a photo of it before because it was so close to the road. With the 10-22 lens, I was able to do so.
26-JAN-2007
January 26, 2007 - Chilly Sparrow
A few snow showers this morning, but very cold. Temps in the low 20's. These little fellows were in the hedges and this one in particular looked very cold.
25-JAN-2007
January 25, 2007 - Snowy morn at the Capitol
Light snow today, and the ground is actually getting covered. Temps around 30. I got my new 10-22 lens yesterday, so even though it was snowing, I went out and tried it out. This is one of the sample shots I took. I was amazed at how close I could get to my foreground subject and still get everything in the photo. I had to watch that I didn't get my feet in the photo.
24-JAN-2007
January 24, 2007 - Blue Jay raider
We got a fresh coating of snow last night, with temps around 30 this morning. More snow is in the forecast. I guess winter decided to stay. One good thing about the snow, it really brings the birds to the feeders. Since I was off work today, I got some feeder shots this morning and plan on going out for some winter scene shots this afternoon. The blue jays were making their raid on the feeders, and I got this one red-handed (or beaked).
23-JAN-2007
January 23, 2007 - Dawn at the State Capitol
Cloudy, damp and cold this morning with a few flurries in the air. Temps around 32. I've been looking at the capitol dome as I come in to work, and since it's usually dark, this is very similar to what I see. I did experiment with settings a little to come up with this one.
22-JAN-2007
January 22, 2007 - Squirrel watching hawk
Cloudy today, with most of the snow melted off. Highs around 40. I was out for an afternoon walk and saw this big guy watching for squirrels in a tree right beside the Governor's mansion. He wasn't a bit interested in me, but I didn't see a squirrel moving. They knew better.
21-JAN-2007
January 21, 2007 - Cardnal in the snow
We got our first real snow of the year today. It has amounted to between 2-3 inches. After an interesting drive to church and back this morning, I perched in the bathroom with the window open to get a few feeder shots. This guy came in for the striped sunflower seeds.
20-JAN-2007
January 20, 2007 - Tufted Titmouse
Beautiful but cold day today with highs at best in the low 40's. Spent most of my day out shopping, but got to spend a little while watching the feeders. I got this little guy in after the small sunflower seeds.
19-JAN-2007
January 19, 2007 - White-Breasted Nuthatch
Cold and blustery today. Had a little coating of snow this morning but it melted this afternoon. Windy and a few snow showers still around. I wasn't feeling really well today, so I stayed close to home. I did feel a little better this afternoon and slipped out into my back porch blind and got a few feeder shots. This little guy loved the small black sunflower seeds, as you can see.
18-JAN-2007
January 18, 2007 - Cactus with a bad hair day
Chilly this morning but expected to warm into the mid 40's this afternoon. Maybe snow tonight. My former boss had this cactus growing in his office window, and it looked so unusual I had to have a picture of it.
17-JAN-2007
January 17, 2007 - Tulip Tree Cone
Winter has finally arrived, with temps this morning in the teens and only expecting a high to day in the mid 30's. After a rainy and gloomy weekend, the cold air arrived, but it has cleared off and is sunny. I was looking for birds in the holly trees when I saw these seed cones on a tulip tree (or Magnolia tree).
January 12, 2007 - Stained Glass Window
Overcast today with rain expected all day. Highs in the upper 40's to low 50's. Expecting a busy day today, so I posted this one today that I took yesterday. I had never noticed the stained glass windows in this house before, so they were a pleasant find.
11-JAN-2007
January 11, 2007 - Black Bird
Cold and clear this morning, with lows in the upper teens. Expected to get near 50 today. I shot this blackbird while I was out looking for Blue Jays this morning. Not sure what species this is. Maybe some of you may know. I believe he is a Grackle.
January 9, 2007 - Crow portrait
A nasty weather day today with snow turning to rain then back to snow. Temps in the upper 30's. The weather was too bad today to take my equipment out, so I posted this one I took a few days ago of this curious crow. I liked the way he tilted his head when I aimed my camera at him.
08-JAN-2007
January 8, 2007 - Pidgeon
Rainy this morning but clearing and getting cooler this afternoon. Highs started out in the 40's but temps are now dropping. More rain and probably snow on the way. I went out for a short walk at noon today and caught this pidgeon splashing in a puddle.
January 7, 2007 - Wet Sparrow
It started out cloudy today and then the clouds opened up. Too wet to have my equipment out. So I posted this one of a little fellow who'd been in the rain for awhile. I have decided that since I'd done this for 6 months, I'm going to ease up a little on this. I will continue to post, but won't feel as urgent a need to post every day.
05-JAN-2007
January 5, 2007 - A wary eye
Warm and rainy today, with highs in the mid to upper 60's. We had rain this morning, but it quit long enough at noon for me to get a walk in. These guys were foraging along the river bank, and didn't pay very much attention to me, so I got pretty close to them.
04-JAN-2007
January 4, 2007 - Confused Magnolia Tree
Sunny today with highs to be in the mid 60's. This has been such strange weather that even the magnolia trees are confused. This one is actually budding.
03-JAN-2007
January 3, 2007 - Frosty the Robin
Cold this morning, with lows in the mid-20's. But it is supposed to warm up to near 60 this afternoon. The robins have moved on to the holly berries, and I caught this one waiting his turn to get into the tree.
02-JAN-2007
January 2, 2007 - Top of the Dome
Cloudy this morning but sunny this afternoon. Highs near 50. Normally, the gold leaf on the dome reflects so badly that it blows out the detail. But this was an opportunity to shoot it with high, bright overcast skies.
January 1, 2007 - Tucker County Barn
The new year started with a few peeks of sun and then clouded over in the afternoon and got cooler. Temps in the upper 40's most of the day. I was watching football today, so I posted this one of a barn that I took last fall in Tucker County, near Canaan Valley State Park.
31-DEC-2006
December 31, 2006 - Madison in Black and White
Cloudy today with warm temps hovering around 60. Expecting rain by the end of the day. And no cold weather in sight. Since we got to keep Madison and extra day this weekend while Mom and Dad went out to play, I got the opportunity to get a few shots of her. I thought the black and white looked pretty good.
December 30, 2006 - Closeup of the Red-Bellied Woodpecker
Warm again today with mixed clouds and sun. Temps around 60. It had really been a strange December, weatherwise. I had church meetings all day today, so I didn't get to go out and shoot. So I decided to post this one that I took earlier this week, as I got up close with the sapsucker. He really likes the suet I put out for the birds.
29-DEC-2006
December 29, 2006 - High School Wrestling
Warm and sunny today with highs near 60. I attended a wrestling tournament today with our local team, Calhoun County, entertaining six other schools in round robin matches. I had never taken photos in the high school gym before, and found it to be quite the challenge. As you can see from the data, I had to go to 800 ISO for these, so they may be a little grainy. I will be posting the rest of the photos in their own gallery as soon as I get them ready.
28-DEC-2006
December 28, 2006 - Downy Woodpecker
Hazy sun today with temps expected to reach near 60. We really haven't had much winter yet. I slipped back out on the porch this morning and had a great time shooting birds (with the camera). This little guy came in and got up close and personal.
27-DEC-2006
December 27, 2006 - Red-bellied Woodpecker
Partly cloudy today with highs around 40. I fed the birds this afternoon and then kind of came up with a makeshift blind on my back porch. This guy came in for the corn. I didn't know they ate corn.
December 26, 2006 - Summer Mushrooms
One of the darkest and dreariest days of the year, with temps starting the mid 40's this morning and dropping into the 30's with a cold rain. Didn't venture out with my equipment in this nasty weather, so I decided to post this one that I took this summer while exploring Cathedral State Park. There are still virgin hemlock trees growing there, and these mushrooms like the environment.
25-DEC-2006
December 25, 2006 - A new Christmas Tradition
We're having a brown Christmas, as it is raining today, and highs in the mid 40's. Buster wanted to start a new Christmas Tradition, where we all dress up like Christmas presents for the day. I'm going as a Christmas couch potato.
24-DEC-2006
December 24, 2006 - Her Majesty Has Arrived
Cloudy today with highs near 50. Christmas Eve arrived, and so did our little princess Madison to pick up her gifts from her loyal subjects. She did, while visiting, grant an audience with her Pap Pa and even had some hugs and kisses for him. Pap Pa, of course, was overjoyed.
23-DEC-2006
December 23, 2006 - Happy Holidays
Warm and bright today, with temps in the mid 50's. Emily Anderson, my little model, is the daughter of Trudi Anderson. Mom allowed me to photograph her along with Hendricks Hardman, son of Deva Hardman. You can see the results in the separate gallery. Merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous New Year.
22-DEC-2006
December 22, 2006 - Brutus
Rainy and warm today. Expecting a high of near 60. One of my coworkers brought this little guy in to show him off today, so I took a shot of him for her. His name is Brutus. But he doesn't look like someone who would betray you (in case Ceasar is reading this).
December 21, 2006 - Early settler statue
Rainy today but rather mild with highs in the low 50's. Too nasty out to get my equipment wet, so I posted this one from earlier this week. It is a statue depicting the early settlers that came into this region.
20-DEC-2006
December 20, 2006 - Falls on Birch River
Warm and sunny today with highs in the 50's. A great day to do Christmas shopping, but no time to take a photo. So, I posted this one that I took earlier this year on what I call Waterfall Highway, which is state route 20. This one is near Boggs.
19-DEC-2006
December 19, 2006 - Governor's Mansion Guard
Clouds this morning but bright and sunny this afternoon. Highs around 50. Temps have dropped back down to about normal. I shot this guy as he was standing guard in front of the entrance to the Governor's Mansion. He has a red brother on the other side of him.
18-DEC-2006
December 18, 2006 - Balmy Weather
Warm again today with mostly cloudy skies. Temps in the mid 60's. It was so warm today, I caught this guy out sunning himself this evening in the flower garden. I would have thought it would have been a little late in the year for him, but I guess a stone frog won't mind the cold as much.
December 17, 2006 - View from Grandview State Park
Warm for this time of year (again today) and the highs hit 70 this afternoon. Had lots of things to do that were church-related today, so I decided to post this one taken earlier this fall from Grandview State Park, in the southern mountains. I particularly liked the unusual shadow that the clouds near the sun cast on the adjacent mountain.
December 16, 2006 - Autumn Barn
Unseasonably warm today and sunny, with highs in the 60's. We continue to have oddly warm days. I operated my photo booth today for awhile. It has turned out to be a very prosperous venture. But, because I spent much of the day there and the rest of it entertaining my granddaughter, I didn't get out and shoot anything. So I posted one I took a couple of months ago on one of my autumn trips.
December 15, 2006 - Abraham walking in the mist
Overcast this morning but getting a few peeks of sun. Temps expected to get into the upper 50's today. Although I took this one yesterday, I decided to post it today. It's a statue of Abraham Lincoln, who signed the state of West Virginia into existence. The title of the statue is "Abraham Lincoln Walks at Midnight," from the Vachel Lindsey poem.
14-DEC-2006
December 14, 2006 - Self-reflection in red
Foggy this morning but supposed to be unusually warm again today, with highs in the low 60's again. I went out to shoot some in the fog this morning, and ran across these large Christmas bulbs on the the Governor's Mansion tree. When I focused on this one, I noticed my own reflection in it.
December 13, 2006 - Pendleton Lake
Unusually warm today with highs near 60. This type of weather is supposed to continue for a few days (saves on the heating bill). I was manning my photo booth today so I needed to pull one out of reserve from the Pendleton Lake area of Blackwater Falls State Park.
12-DEC-2006
December 12, 2006 - Sunrise on the Kanawha River
Cold this morning with lows in the 20's, but expecting highs today of 60 and mostly sunny skies. Yet another beautiful sunrise this morning, and I hurried out after I got to work to take this shot of the sunrise. This is located right about the Capitol building, looking east toward Kanawha City.
11-DEC-2006
December 11, 2006 - Junco (I think)
Moderating temperature today and bright sunshine. Expecting highs in the 50's. I went out walking this morning and saw this little fellow (I think he's a junco). He didn't hold still for very long, so I only got one shot of him. This was it.
December 10, 2006 - Brushy Creek
Cold this morning, with lows in the teens, but warmed up nicely into the 50's. After church today I spent most of the rest of the day peddling my photos. I had a good day doing that, but didn't to get to do any photographing. So here's another that I took this fall of Brushy Creek.
December 9, 2006 - Remembering Summer
Very cold this morning with temp of 11f. Warmed up well today though, with highs in the mid 40's. We spent a busy day Christmas shopping, and then there was the minor auto accident that occurred in the Kmart parking lot this evening. So I didn't get to do any shooting today, so I pulled this one out of my "to do" folder.
08-DEC-2006
December 8, 2006 - A belated tribute
Very cold this morning, with temps in the teens. Expected to warm all the way into the upper 20's this afternoon. The sun has been out some this morning, though, and a bright blue winter sky. I missed getting this shot yesterday, but believe we all owe a debt of gratitude for the brave men who gave their lives 65 years ago yesterday at Pearl Harbor. This bell is from the SS West Virginia, which was destroyed on that day.
07-DEC-2006
December 7, 2006 - Winter has arrived
Snow showers today with dropping temps. It's already down into the 20's. Since the winter storm blew in here earlier today, I decided to try a few winter shots, even though it's still snowing and windy. It let up long enough for me to get this one.
06-DEC-2006
December 6, 2006 - Sadie
Bright, sunny, but breezy day with temps in the 50's. However, our first measurable snow is predicted for tomorrow. I was manning the craft booth today, but got a chance to take this one of my friend's dog to be placed on a calendar.
05-DEC-2006
December 5, 2006 - Peek a Boo Sparrow
Bright and cold today with highs in the low 40's. I noticed these sparrows hiding in the hedges, so I waited until this one stuck his head out.
December 4, 2006 - Checking for Pods
Cold today with snow flurries this morning and some sunshine this afternoon. I've been very busy today, but posted these seed pods that I happened upon.
03-DEC-2006
December 3, 2006 - Madison Ready to go to church
Partly cloudy today with highs in the mid 40s. Expecting snow flurries tomorrow. I took this one of Madison as she was ready to go to church. She didn't do very well at church today, because she wants to get in the pulpit with her Pap Paw.
December 2, 2006 - Mail Pouch Barn
Clear, breezy and cold today, with highs in the low 40's. Expected to get down into the teens for the first time this winter tonight. I ran my photo booth part of the day today, and had church this evening, so I didn't get to do anything with my camera today. So I posted this one I took early in the fall of a Mail Pouch barn located near my son's home.
01-DEC-2006
December 1, 2006 - Office View
Warm this morning, but expecting high winds, rain and possibly thunderstorms. Temps are in the 60's this morning, but expecting a sharp drop in temps during the day today. I got to work this morning and shot this one out my office window. This is looking east up Washington Street, with I77/I64 in the background. Sailors should take warning with this sky.
November 30, 2006 - Red Tailed Hawk
Mild again today with a few showers. Highs near 70. I spent the day hawking pictures at a Christmas sale, so I decided to use the photo of this guy that I took a little earlier this week. He was trolling for squirrels on the Capitol grounds.
29-NOV-2006
November 29, 2006 - Hold Outs
Showers this morning but still quite mild, with temps in the 60's. I went out this morning looking for things fooled by the false spring we're having. I found these on a vine close to the rose bushes. When I was growing up, we called these hill grapes.
28-NOV-2006
November 28, 2006 - Downy Woodpecker
Cloudy today but still have temps in the 50's. Expecting highs in the low 60's today. I was out looking for blue jays when this little guy flew into a tree and just ignored me. He was in constant motion and I had to take several shots to finally get one that wasn't blurry.
27-NOV-2006
November 27, 2006 - Holly Berries
Warm again today and sunny with highs expected in the mid to upper 60's. I was out looking for birds this morning when these holly berries caught my eye. I like the splash of color.
November 26, 2006 - Blackwater Falls Deer
Very warm today and partly sunny. Highs in the low 70's. I suspect we'll pay for this kind of weather in November. I was very busy today with church this morning and a baptizing afterwards, so I had to fall back on this one that I took earlier in the fall at Blackwater Falls State Park.
25-NOV-2006
November 25, 2006 - Keeping an Eye Out
Warm and sunny today with highs in the upper 60's. Very unusual weather for this time of year. I didn't have a lot of time to go exploring today, but did take the time to catch this little guy as he kept an eye on me.
24-NOV-2006
November 24, 2006 - Mail Pouch Barn
Bright, sunny day today with temps in the 60's. I was getting the rest of my items together for the craft booth today, and in route to town I took another try at this mail pouch barn. It sits in a very difficult lighting situation, but I thought this one turned out ok, especially with the septia look to it.
23-NOV-2006
November 23, 2006 - Thanksgiving Finch
Mild today with some sun. Temps around 60. After stuffing myself with turkey, I went out on the back porch and patrolled the feeders. This little guy came in, but was casting a wary eye toward me when I got this shot.
21-NOV-2006
November 22, 2006 - Mockingbird (I think)
Heavy frost this morning with lows in the mid 20's. But it warmed up nicely this afternoon into the low 50's, with sunshine. I took off from work today and got ready for a crafter's display that will last through the month of December. So I was printing pictures and setting up my display today and didn't get to do but very little shooting. So I posted this one that I took yesterday. They were after the same berries as the robins.
21-NOV-2006
November 21, 2006 - Starling
Foggy this morning, then clear and crisp today. Highs to get into the mid 40's. I saw this fellow as I made my morning walk around the Capitol campus. He was enjoying the berries as were robins and chickadees. These aren't the nicest of birds, and are often referred to as "flying rats."
November 20, 2006 - Approaching Storm
Rain, sleet and snow today, so I didn't venture out with my electronic equipment. I took this one last week, and I really like the dramatic look of the clouds.
19-NOV-2006
November 19, 2006 - Tight fit
The day started out fairly well today, but has turned nasty this evening, with rain and sleet. Expecting snow in the mountains, and maybe around here too. Our cat Wilson has been outside most of the day, and he curled up in his favorite shoe box when he did come in.
18-NOV-2006
November 18, 2006 - Madison posing
A decent day today with a little sunshine and highs in the upper 50's. I decided to try a few shots of Madison for possible Christmas card material. This was one of them.
17-NOV-2006
November 17, 2006 - Johnny Comes Marching Home
Drizzle this morning and continued cloudy now. Temps in the upper 30's to low 40's. This statue is located on the Capitol campus here in Charleston. I particularly like his long rifle.
16-NOV-2006
November 16, 2006 - Cedar Waxwing
Heavy rains this morning, then a brief clearing. It's clouding up again now. Temps in the 60's this morning. I went out after the hard rains this morning and the waxwings were still eating berries, so I got a chance to get a few shots. I like this one because you can really see the yellow tip on his tail.
04-OCT-2006
November 15, 2006 - Early Morning on the Williams River
Raining today, with highs in the low 40's. Another dreary day, and since we're getting carpet put down, there was a need for someone with a weak mind and a strong back. Since I half qualify (not sure about the back part), I won't have much time with my camera, so I posted this one of the Williams River that I took earlier this fall.
14-NOV-2006
November 14, 2006 - Sparrow
A carbon copy of yesterday, with overcast skies and cool temps in the low 40's. I got a chance to go out at lunch and this little guy flew up and posed for me.
13-NOV-2006
November 13, 2006 - Berry-eating Robin
Cloudy and quite cool this morning, with temps hovering around 40. The robins had joined the waxwings and other birds in raiding the flowering crabapple trees. I realize this one isn't snap sharp, but it was about as good as I could get under less than ideal lighting conditions.
09-OCT-2006
November 12, 2006 - View from Spruce Knob
Weather here has gone from the mid 70's and sunny to rain and cold with a high today in the low 40's. It's been a very busy weekend and didn't get to do much with my camera. So I decided to post this one that I took earlier this fall from Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia. This is one of the reasons that neighboring mountains are referred to as the Blue Ridge mountains.
02-NOV-2006
November 10, 2006 - My little visitor
Absolutely beautiful day today, with sunshine and temps in the mid 70's. Rain is coming tomorrow too, and we'll go back to November weather. My wife and I took advantage of the beautiful day to get a lot of outside work done, including putting out tulip bulbs. I didn't take this one today, but these little guys were very busy today too.
09-NOV-2006
November 9, 2006 - Oakleaf Boat
Warm and sunny today with unusually high temps in the low 70's. Had the day off from work today, but was busy around the house and didn't get to do much photographing. But I happened to walk past this leaf just as it had landed in the water.
08-NOV-2006
November 8, 2006 - Down They Come
Rain this morning but now has quit. Temps in the upper 50's. The wind and rain that we've had recently has brought down most of the leaves, including this one that I isolated.
06-NOV-2006
November 7, 2006 - You talkin' to me?
Steady rain today with temps in the mid-50's. Since I continue to fight a chest cold, I decided that my equipment and I should stay inside. So this one was taken yesterday, while I was tracking down the waxwings. He was busy burying acorns when he paused and looked kind of over his shoulder at me. The image stabilization feature on this lens really increases the number of usable shots.
06-NOV-2006
November 6, 2006 - Day Lilly Survivor
Early morning shower this morning but warming nicely now with breaks of sun. Highs to get into the 60's today. I was surprised to see that a few flowers had survived the hard freezes of the weekend, including this little that's just coming out in bloom.
05-NOV-2006
November 5, 2006 - Madison's Bedroom Look
Bright, sunny day today with temps in the mid-50's. Still fighting a nasty cold, but did get a few shots of Madison today. She loved her little granny gown, and I got her to pose for moment in her rocking chair.
04-NOV-2006
November 4, 2006 - Grass Isolation
Very cold this morning, but moderated a little this afternoon. We hit 20 degrees this morning. Sunny now though and around 50. Still not feeling up to par, but went out for a little while this afternoon, since it was sunny. Used the telezoom on this one to reduce depth of field, and the backlighting kind of gave it a glow.
24-OCT-2006
November 3, 2006 - Another autumn flower
Clear and cold this morning, with a heavy frost. Expecting highs today in the low 40's. Since we're feeling a little under the weather today, we posted a photo from a little earlier in the season. We've taken several shots of this one, and finally got one to turn out ok.
02-NOV-2006
November 2, 2006 - Bird Blind
Heavy rain again last night, then clearing and much cooler today. Bright and sunny, but temps in the low 50's. Because I had my day off switched around this week, I was off today, and had the chance to set up my bird blind around my feeders. I shot this one after getting it set up. As you can see, the finches are still turning colors.
01-NOV-2006
November 1, 2006 - Dying Leaf
Rain last night and early this morning. Getting cooler with temps around 60 today. It is that time of year that green things are doing their swan song. I liked the lines in this leaf, even though it was declining. I hoped the black and white would accent the lines.
30-OCT-2006
October 31, 2006 - Tree Pattern
Not as cool this morning and sunny, but expecting rain by the end of the day. Temps are supposed to be around 70 today. I went for a noon walk yesterday and saw this tree pattern. It reminded me of a photo I had seen in another gallery, which is another good reason to be at pbase. You get great ideas from your fellow photographers. Like this one.
30-OCT-2006
October 30, 2006 - Scarecrow (no relation)
Cool with light frost this morning, but sunny now and temps expected to be near 70. I thought I'd get a shot of this fellow while he was still around. Surprised the vandals hadn't already gotten him. And he and I are not related.
27-OCT-2006
October 29, 2006 - Dogwood Berries
A bright sunny day today with temps in the 50's. I had church meetings most of the day and didn't get to go out, but had this one from last week. I've been trying to get a photo of the dogwood berries, because of their unique shape and their vivid color. I thought this one represented both of those characteristics.
25-OCT-2006
October 28, 2006 - Nearby Barn
Heavy rain last night. Dreary and wet this morning, and high winds this afternoon. Life kind of got in the way today, so I posted a photo taken earlier this week of a barn that is only about a mile from my house. Most people would not notice it, since it sits over the road bank.
27-OCT-2006
October 27, 2006 - Autumn Rain
Cool and raining today. Highs in the mid to upper 40's. Kind of a raw day, so I was out shooting under the umbrella again today. I've been looking at these leaves because the color was so vivid. I thought this kind of represented the day today.
24-OCT-2006
October 26, 2006 - Autumn Flowers
Overcast and cold this morning. Expecting rain to set in today. This will probably bring down the rest of the leaves. A few hardy flowers still remain, including these.
25-OCT-2006
October 25, 2006 - Shock area barn
Partly cloudy today and cool. Highs in the upper 40's. I saw this little barn the other evening and it was too late to get a shot of it. I went back this afternoon and got a couple of shots of it before the leaves were all down.
24-OCT-2006
October 24, 2006 - Survivor
Cold today and cloudy. Highs are not expected to get out of the low 40's. We had snow showers yesterday evening, and I was surprised to find this rose had survived the snow and the near freezing temps last night. A delicate and welcomed surprise.
23-OCT-2006
October 23, 2006 - Last Gasp for Flowers
Cold and breezy today, with temps in the 40's. Expecting another killer frost tonight, which will probably do in the last of the flowers. So I shot what I could find today, and these were still blooming to beat the band. I love their tenacity, and the beautiful red petals.
09-OCT-2006
October 22, 2006 - Eklala Falls, Blackwater Falls State Park
Cool today, with intermittent rain and wind. Getting colder as the day went on. I was very busy today and didn't get a chance to get a photo, so here is one that I took earlier this fall. There are a series of falls on a little stream right beside the lodge in Blackwater Falls State Park. This is one of the cascades on that stream as it tumbles into Blackwater Canyon.
21-OCT-2006
October 21, 2006 - Finch
Cold and foggy this morning, but warmed up into the 60's this afternoon with bright sunshine. I had a very busy morning this morning, but did get an opportunity to go out for a little while this afternoon. These guys were working these tall, thin weeds that could just barely hold their weight, but did have seeds on them. I finally got one to hold still long enough to get this shot.
20-OCT-2006
October 20, 2006 - Down came the Rain (and the leaves)
Hard rains last night. Drizzle, overcast and cool today. Temps about 50. The rains from last night brought down some of the leaves, and this one just seemed to epitomize the day.
19-OCT-2006
October 19, 2006 - Yellow Rose
Hazy sun this morning, but expecting rain this afternoon. Temps in the 60's. I know I have shot roses a lot, but it's hard for me to pass up these beauties. And soon they will be gone.
18-OCT-2006
October 18, 2006 - The Plague is Back
Cloudy this morning with a few breaks of sun this afternoon. Temps around 70. I got a photo today of our plague here in West Virginia, the ladybugs. These bugs are not native to West Virginia, and have turned into a plague of almost biblical proportions. If you do not spray for them or otherwise have your house treated for them, you will deal with them all winter. They have a terrible odor and a lot of folks are allergic to the smell. (Note: As some have already commented, these are not true lady bugs but asian beetles. They look like lady bugs, but have nothing to do with good luck).
17-OCT-2006
October 17, 2006 - My little sunflower
Steady rain this morning, then cloudy this afternoon. Since I had a little family emergency this morning, I didn't get to go out today. But in the process of resolving the problem, I got the opportunity to shoot a couple of shots of Madison. I decided to try my hand with photoshop and see how it looked. Here's my results.
16-OCT-2006
October 16, 2006 - Confused Crocus
Cloudy today but moderating temps. Highs in the 60's. I guess the weather is so messed up that it has confused the crocuses. More than one patch of them are coming out.
15-OCT-2006
October 15, 2006 - Old Log Barn near Arnoldsburg
Bright sunny fall day today, with temps around 60. This old barn is kind of a local landmark, sitting right by the highway. I thought an aged black and white look was good for it.
14-OCT-2006
October 14, 2006 - Danielle
Bright, sunny, breezy and cool today. Highs in the mid 50's. I tried my hand at some senior photos for the daughter of a preacher friend of mine. Here is one of Danielle.
13-OCT-2006
October 13, 2006 - Sandstone Falls
Cold and frosty this morning but moderated some during the day. I made my southern run through the state today. It wouldn't seem right if I didn't stop by Sandstone Falls while I was in the area. The falls are so wide and there are so many cascades, a person could spend all day shooting at all the angles. This is one of those cascades.
12-OCT-2006
October 12, 2006 - Autumn on the Farm
Big storms last night and dropping temps today. Down in the upper 40's today with frost predicted tonight. Since the weather was rather blustery today, I stayed rather close to home. I spotted this barn just across the hill from where my sister-in-law grew up.
11-OCT-2006
October 11, 2006 - Barn on Milo Road
Intermittent showers today. Expecting heavy rains this afternoon. Because of the weather, I stayed closer to home. I had driven by this barn a hundred times but never really looked at it until today. I thought the black and white suited it.
10-OCT-2006
October 10, 2006 - Bald Eagle
Another gorgeous day today. Sunny and temps near 80. I made a pass through the central part of the state today, and stopped at the West Virginia Wildlife Refuge Center near French Creek. It was the first time I had been there since I was a boy. This majestic creature was one of the residents.
09-OCT-2006
October 9, 2006 - Blackwater Falls
After morning fog, a beautiful day in the upper 70's. Lots of fall color in the mountains, as I went to Canaan Valley and Blackwater Falls State Parks today. As you can see, we had a good amount of rain over the weekend, and plenty of water in the falls.
08-OCT-2006
October 8, 2006 - Madison on the Hot Rod
Warmer and bright sunshine today. I had a very busy today all day, but got a chance to take a few shots of Madison while she was playing outside.
07-OCT-2006
October 7, 2006 - Song Sparrow
Intermittent clouds and sun today, and cool. I just had a few minutes this afternoon to walk around, but happened to see the song sparrows eating berries. So I got up close enough to shoot this one. Not quite as crisp as I would want it, but I had to do a little cropping on it.
06-OCT-2006
October 6, 2006 - Dogwood Leaves
Cool, damp and cloudy today. I was looking at the berries on the dogwood tree when I saw these twin leaves. I like the texture and colors.
05-OCT-2006
October 5, 2006 - Sentinel
Storms last night and rain into the morning. Now just mostly cloudy. Temps near 70 with high humidity. I got my new 70-300mm lens yesterday and just got the opportunity to try it out this morning. I caught this little guy on watch as I was walking by.
04-OCT-2006
October 4, 2006 - Summit Lake
Very warm and sunny today with a breeze blowing most of the day. I got to make a trip to the southern mountains today and shot this one at Summit Lake. As can be seen, the leaves are definitely turning.
03-OCT-2006
October 3, 2006 - Morning and it's glories
Cool morning but expecting it to get quite warm this afternoon. A little breeze persisting, making it difficult to get an macro shots. But I did get this one in all its glory.
02-OCT-2006
October 2, 2006 - A new one still blooming
Very warm and sunny today. Temps near 80. I was about to come back to the office today when I spotted this one. It must have just come out in bloom since the end of last week. Flower days are numbered now. Only one frost away from them being gone.
01-OCT-2006
October 1, 2006 - Twins
Cloudy this morning but peeks of sun this afternoon. Temps in the high 60's. I walked around the yard this afternoon and saw that these two mushrooms had come up after the recent rains. I liked that they look like they have fringes on their caps.
30-SEP-2006
September 30, 2006 - Sunbathing Tree Frog
Wet and dreary this morning, but the sun came out this afternoon and warmed things up. I caught this little fellow taking advantage of the sun on the top railing of the pool.
29-SEP-2006
September 29, 2006 - Happy Scarecrow
Overcast with rain this morning and quite cool. Starting to clear by midmorning though. I was glad the rain stopped, and apparently so was this guy.
28-SEP-2006
September 28, 2006 - Two Tone Dahlia
Rain showers today and getting noticably cooler. I got out between showers this morning and caught this one that had just apparently come out in the last couple of days. I used my 17-85mm lens for this one. It didn't do too bad on a macro shot, but it is a large flower.
27-SEP-2006
September 27, 2006 - White Heron
Cool and foggy this morning, but bright sunshine and warm by noon. I got out early today and visited Stonewall Jackson State Park. I was looking at some dead trees in the lake when this fellow flew in and landed. I slipped back to the car and got my big lens and slipped up as close as I could get to him. It isn't snap sharp, but it was hand-held.
26-SEP-2006
September 26, 2006 - Icy closeup
Cool and clear today with temps expected to be in the low 70's. Not feeling the best today, so I didn't wander far to get this one of a closeup of a pine cone. I experimented with a couple of filters to come up with the look.
25-SEP-2006
September 25, 2006 - Small Sternwheeler
Clouds breaking up this morning and lots of sunshine. Temps in the 60's. There were a couple of small sternwheelers going up the Kanawha River as I went out to walk this morning, so I got this one.
24-SEP-2006
September 24, 2006 - Little Mushroom
Rain off and on all day today. Temps around 70 and humid. Since it had rained so much, I figured that new mushrooms would be growing in the back yard. They were. This one was only about 1 inch high.
23-SEP-2006
September 23, 2006 - Striped Bug
Rain last night and up until noon today. Intermittent rains this afternoon. I dodged the showers this afternoon to catch this bug. I've seen these before but couldn't get a decent shot until today, even though the wind was blowing. A strange looking fellow.
22-SEP-2006
September 22, 2006 - Pink beauty
Cloudy today but not quite as cool. Not a lot of good light today, so this one was a little difficult to get the DOF sufficient. But I like the contrasting colors and shades.
21-SEP-2006
September 21, 2006 - North Bend Songbird
Foggy this morning and bright and sunny this afternoon, but still cool. I took a trip to North Bend State Park today to try to get some deer photos. That didn't work out, but I did get a shot at this little guy. It isn't as sharp as I wanted, but with a breeze blowing, it was about as sharp as I could get.
20-SEP-2006
September 20, 2006 - One last try
Cool, cloudy and breezy today. Temps in the low 60's. We are having our first taste of autumn today. I decided to try one more time to get a shot of this flower, since they are almost all gone. This one finally turned out ok.
19-SEP-2006
September 19, 2006 - New Rose
Storms and rain last night and cooler and partly cloudy today. We are expecting our first cool snap of the season. This rose wasn't blooming the last time I made my pass through this area. It has an unusual color that attracted me.
18-SEP-2006
September 18, 2006 - Autumn Flowers
Very warm and breezy today. Temps expected to be in the mid 80's. Several varieties of autumn flowers are now blooming, and this is one of them.
17-SEP-2006
September 17, 2006 - Injured Fawn
A warm and sunny day today with temps around 80. I went out walking this evening and saw this little fellow in the grass. I slipped up on him and was amazed that he didn't run. I thought maybe he hadn't seen me. When I got really close, I could see that he had been hit by an automobile and had an injured hind leg. I took a couple of shots of him, and he got up and limped into the brush. I imagine he will end up coyote bait.
16-SEP-2006
September 16, 2006 - Buster Birdwatching
Overcast and cool today. Supposed to get some sun after the fog burns off. I walked in on Buster this morning while he was doing some long-distance birdwatching. So I thought, "Black cat, white window - black and white image."
15-SEP-2006
September 15, 2006 - Rose Layers
Overcast today and foggy. Expecting the fog to burn off and get some sun this afternoon. I took this closeup of the rose because I liked the texture and layers of it.
14-SEP-2006
September 14, 2006 - Rain-Kissed Rose
Overcast and cool this morning. Expecting some peeks of sun this afternoon. We received good rains yesterday evening, so everything had water drops on it. It did add a little to this rose.
13-SEP-2006
September 13, 2006 - Old Barn near Duck, WV
Rainy and cool today. Not many opportunities to get out and shoot today, but I took advantage of a lull in the rain to get this shot of this old barn.
12-SEP-2006
September 12, 2006 - Yellow Delicious Apple
Cloudy today with rain expected. I was sitting here contemplating my photo a day, when I looked at this subject. This was taken with shutter priority and existing light. I used black and white to emphasize the lines and patterns. Then I ate my subject (aren't you glad it wasn't a bee today).
11-SEP-2006
September 11, 2006 - Honey Bee
Hazy sun today with temps in the upper 70's. Expecting rain tonight. For some reason, I have had difficulty getting clear photos of honey bees. I have only had success by using shutter preferred settings, which is what this one was.
10-SEP-2006
September 10, 2006 - Old Barn near Normantown, Gilmer County
Another beautiful day today, with temps in the low 80's, sunny and dry. I saw this old barn as I came home from church this morning and went back this afternoon and shot it.
09-SEP-2006
September 9, 2006 - Pine Run School
Warm and sunny today. A very pleasant day. I was at Cedar Creek State Park taking photos at a wedding this afternoon. This old school, that was open from 1909-1956, was relocated to Cedar Creek State Park.
08-SEP-2006
September 8, 2006 - You Talkin' to Me???
Bright, sunny warm day with temps in the low 80's. Thanks to my sister-in-law, I got a chance to shoot some of these guys. This one looked like I was bothering him.
07-SEP-2006
September 7, 2006 - Pastel Lilly
Foggy this morning but expecting a glorious, sunny day with temps in the upper 70's. These lillies apparently have just come out since the rainy weekend. They definitely caught my eye.
06-SEP-2006
September 6, 2006 - A new arrival
Storms last night. Cloudy and cool this morning but expected to brighten as the day goes on. These have opened up since the last time I walked around this street. I liked the different colors present.
05-SEP-2006
September 5, 2006 - Wet Lilly
Steady rain today. So, I am shooting under the umbrella again today. It was a good opportunity to shoot this lilly since in normal light it tends to wash out (no pun intended). The colors and detail stayed in this one, though.
04-SEP-2006
September 4, 2006 - Old Barn near the school
Intermittent high clouds and a few peeks of sun. Cool again today. I have looked at this old barn for months and thought to stop and get a photo of it. I did so today.
03-SEP-2006
September 3, 2006 - Lake Flower
Another gloomy day with a mist of rain falling off and on all day. I went over to Big Ditch Lake and found these flowers growing right in the water of the lake. I'm not sure what they are other than they are kind of unusual.
02-SEP-2006
September 2, 2006 - Bee into Thistle
Overcast and cool today. I believe Hurricane Ernesto has taken summer with it as it passed by. Because it is cool today, the bees were not as active. So I managed to catch this little guy buried in a thistle.
01-SEP-2006
September 1, 2006 - Mail Pouch under the Umbrella
Still have a light rain due to the remnants of Hurricane Ernesto. So I took this one under the umbrella again. This old barn sits right along the road on Phillips Run, and is surrounded with electric lines, poles and, of course, the road. Had to take a tight shot to cut it out.
31-AUG-2006
August 31, 2006 - From Under the Umbrella
Rain most of the day today. So I went out with an umbrella and shot this one from under the umbrella.
30-AUG-2006
August 30, 2006 - For Adults Only
Hot, humid, with big storms around. I was looking at shooting some flowers when these two came by "flying united" and then lit on a vine. I got off a couple of frames before they took off again.
29-AUG-2006
August 29, 2006 - Selective Focus
Hot and muggy today, with storms in the area. Since it has been overcast most of the day, I decided to try a little selective focus since my depth of field would be shallow anyway.
August 28, 2006 - Finally . . . Rain
We had storms last night and expecting more today. Still very hot and humid. I've been watching for the right opportunity to shoot these pears, and this morning seemed like the right time.
August 27, 2006 - My Hiking Buddy Nate
Hot and steamy today. We are expecting some much needed rain. It was another busy day of church meetings. I was getting some photos of my granddaughter when Nate decided to pose as well.
August 26, 2006 - Star of Germany
Hot, hazy and humid today. I had church meetings most of the day, but stopped at the neighbor's house this afternoon to shoot this one. He said it was a Star of Germany. Whatever it is, it's pretty.
25-AUG-2006
August 25, 2006 - Early Morning Capture
Foggy this morning, but going to get up into the mid-90's today. I went out very early this morning because it is going to be a very busy day and it's going to get hot. I figured I had better get this before the weather took its toll on it.
24-AUG-2006
August 24, 2006 - Morning Glory
Pleasant this morning and foggy. Going to get hot before the day is done, though. I went out early to beat the heat this morning and found this beauty growing through some ground cover.
23-AUG-2006
August 23, 2006 - One Man's Weed is Another's Flower
Warm, bright day but with the feel of autumn right around the corner. Most folks would have looked at the tiny flowers and just considered it a weed. Just shows what we overlook every day.
22-AUG-2006
August 22, 2006 - New Arrival
Warm and sunny today. Humidity still lower that recently. I've been watching these for awhile as they budded, and with the weekend rains, they have come out in bloom.
21-AUG-2006
August 21, 2006 - Morning cream
Foggy this morning and partly cloudy. With the rain we received over the weekend, some of the flowers have recovered, including this one.
20-AUG-2006
August 20, 2006 - Dragonfly Love
Rainy this morning and then high overcast for the afternoon. I went over to a new lake that was built a couple of years ago and chased dragonflies for the afternoon. I caught this couple right in the act.
19-AUG-2006
August 19, 2006 - Grasshopper
Very warm, humid, and high overcast. Good shooting light today. I chased this fellow all over the meadow before he would finally hold still long enough for me to shoot him.
18-AUG-2006
August 18, 2006 - Curious Rocky
Very warm and clear today with a little breeze moving. I was nearly back from my early morning walk this morning when this curious fellow popped up on the side of a tree. I wouldn't have gotten him if he hadn't been very close. Sometimes it's better to be lucky than good.
17-AUG-2006
August 17, 2006 - Wasp
Warm and getting muggy again. I was looking for flowers today when I saw this little fellow crawling around on them.
16-AUG-2006
August 16, 2006 - Log Barn
Weather was a little cooler today and bright and sunny. Had a very busy day today, but got a chance to go out exploring this evening. I came across this log barn. I realize it isn't snap sharp, but I didn't think it was too bad.
15-AUG-2006
August 15, 2006 - Lilly
Showers this morning and then cloudy and humid. I was looking at some roses blooming in a driveway when I saw these lillies blooming. With the overcast day, gaining enough depth of field was difficult, but I did my best to get on the same plane as the majority of the flower.
14-AUG-2006
August 14, 2006 - Plain Sunflower
Very warm with a mix of clouds and sun. Expecting rain this evening. I was out scouting for a worthy subject to shoot today, and happened to look up and see this sunflower. It's simple, but I liked it.
13-AUG-2006
August 13, 2006 - Little Bee
Hot, dry and breezy today. I've been watching these little bees working on Queen Ann's Lace for a couple of days now. I finally got one to hold still for a moment.
12-AUG-2006
August 12, 2006 - Flower Bud
Warm with hazy sun today. I was out chasing butterflies today and noticed that these flowers were beginning to open up. This particular flower bud caught my eye.
11-AUG-2006
August 11, 2006 - Madison posing
Cloudy and humid today with intermittent sun. We were very busy today, but since our granddaughter was visiting, she struck a pose or two for grandpa.
10-AUG-2006
August 10, 2006 - Red Clover Visitor
Rain this morning and then high overcast with a few peeks of sun. Most of the thistles have finished blooming, so the butterflies were working the clover. I caught this little fellow visiting one of them.
09-AUG-2006
August 9, 2006 - High Mountain Beauty
Weather was hazy all day this day, but not as humid. This flower was growing at Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia. They sat on a high, small stem. With an almost constant wind blowing, it was quite a challenge to get a decent shot.
08-AUG-2006
August 8, 2006 - Cascade on Pendleton Falls
Weather this day was rainy and foggy early, then hazy sun in the afternoon. Went to the mountains for a couple of days - thus the delay in posting. These were just some of the several cascades that fall from Pendleton Falls in Blackwater Falls State Park.
07-AUG-2006
August 7, 2006 - Sandstone Falls
Stormy and very humid today. I drove to the southern mountains today and ran into thunderstorms. I wasn't able to get out to the main falls, but did get this one shot while huddling under an umbrella.
06-AUG-2006
August 6, 2006 - Old Building
Intermittent clouds and sun today, and very humid. Expecting rain this afternoon. This old building sits almost directly across the road from our church. I had been meaning to get a shot or two of it for some time. I had the time this morning.
05-AUG-2006
August 5, 2006 - Black Swallowtail
Very warm and breezy today. Difficult weather to be trying to catch macro images, but this fellow posed for me. Because the light was very good, the shutter priority still allowed me to get some depth of field.
04-AUG-2006
August 4, 2006 - Simply a Daisy
Cloudy today with occasional storms. I had to dodge in and out of storms and a busy schedule to get some shots today. These daisies were down the street from my building.
03-AUG-2006
August 3, 2006 - Little Pink
Another day of the heat wave, with temps in the middle 90's and high humidity. I have to watch or my lenses fog up when I go outside. I've been try to get one of these little fellows, but they are difficult because they are small and sit on a high stem. Wind is always a factor.
02-AUG-2006
August 2, 2006 - Roadside White Flower
Very hot and very humid again today. Spent most of the morning getting the auto fixed, but stopped along the roadside on the way home and shot this one. A hot wind was blowing today, making it difficult to do macro work. But patience prevailed.
01-AUG-2006
August 1, 2006 - Interesting blue flower
Very hot and very humid today. The oppressive heat is once again taking its toll on the flowers. There was also a breeze moving the flowers today adding to the difficulty of macro work. I've been trying to get one of these flowers presentable and had had no luck until today.
31-JUL-2006
July 31, 2006 - Blue Beauty
Very hot and very humid today. Difficult to spend much time outside, but I did get a walk in this morning. I've been trying to get one of these, but they are difficult because of the bright and dark color combination. Took this one in open shade, with shutter priority.
30-JUL-2006
July 30, 2006 - Yellow Giant
Very humid and hazy today, with lots of clouds. These yellow flowers (not sure what they are called) grow to be very tall and very large. They are a problem with exposure because they grow in the shade. Bright yellow with a very dark background. I took several before getting one right.
29-JUL-2006
July 29, 2006 - Roadside Surprise
Warm today with lots of sun. I was on my way home from a church meeting when I saw flowers on the roadside. This one was among them.
28-JUL-2006
July 28, 2006 - Problem Child
Cloudy and humid today. Expecting rain. This flower has been a real problem child with me. It is so light and delicate that even the slightest little movement of wind ruins it. This is the best I have gotten of it so far.
27-JUL-2006
July 27, 2006 - Rose
Mostly cloudy today and very humid. Expecting storms. I wasn't going to use this one, but it was hard to pass up a beautiful rose, so here it is.
26-JUL-2006
July 26, 2006 - Dragonfly
Mix of sun and clouds today, warm and a marked increase in humidity. Since I was off work today, I make a trip to the backwater of Burnsville Lake. I chased this fellow for quite some time before I could get close enough to shoot him.
25-JUL-2006
July 25, 2006 - Looking and Longing
Hazy sun and getting hot again today. I was looking for flowers when I saw this guy looking out the window. It's like he's saying, "Now just where is that catfood delivery guy."
24-JUL-2006
July 24, 2006 - Coneflower black and white
Warm, bright and sunny today. I went out early to try and get a photo before it got hot. I looked at this coneflower and thought it might look good in black and white.
23-JUL-2006
July 23, 2006 - Monarch (I think) Butterfly
Clouds and sun today, but about fifteen degrees cooler and less humidity. I went out looking for bees and butterflies this afternoon and after a lot of chasing I caught up with this one. It's either a monarch or a look-alike.
22-JUL-2006
July 22, 2006 - Mushroom Weather
Rainy and gloomy today. Temps have dropped about 20 degrees. Since I have a wedding today, I didn't have a lot of time, and these are readily available in the back yard, especially with the rain. I used aperture priority, remote release and tripod with this, since it was low light.
21-JUL-2006
July 21, 2006 - Blue Jay
High overcast sky today and not as hot. We had rain this morning and expect more this afternoon. I was off work today, so I decided to try some backyard birding. This bluejay cooperated nicely with my plans. I used shutter priority with this one also, just to be sure I had enough speed.
20-JUL-2006
July 20, 2006 - Killer Wasp
The heatwave continues, which continues to deteriorate the flowers. However, I have been trying to catch one of these fellows for a few days now but they are a little camera shy. This one was looking the other way, so I could slip up on him.
19-JUL-2006
July 19, 2006 - Pink and White Rose
Heat wave continues, with high temps and bright sun. The weather has begun to take a toll on flowers, but this one was somewhat sheltered, so I was able to find a pretty decent specimen.
18-JUL-2006
July 18, 2006 - butterfly
Weather was dry, sunny, and oppressively hot. I caught this little fellow on the way home from work. I had been looking at some flowers growing on the side of the road and had stopped to see if I could get a photo of one of them. Then this fellow came along and posed for me.
17-JUL-2006
July 17, 2006 - White Rose
Weather is bright, sunny, and hot. Went out early to try to get something before it got too hot. Since I hadn't done a white rose yet, this one was the choice. Very difficult to keep the whites from blowing out in the sun, however.
16-JUL-2006
July 16, 2006 - Visitor to the thistles
The day was bright, sunny and hot. Didn't get a chance to shoot until kind of late, and happened to see this little fellow sitting on a thistle that was blooming.
15-JUL-2006
July 15, 2006 - Little Mushroom
Weather was steamy again today, but the rain is moving out. With all the rain, the mushrooms are growing. So I got this little fellow this afternoon. Still using shutter priority, with pretty good results.
14-JUL-2006
July 14, 2006 - The purity of white
Very warm and humid today, with frequent storms. So humid that my lens fogged up when I went outside. This one is a large flower, and the white nestled against the green really caught my eye.
13-JUL-2006
July 13, 2006 - Domestic Beauty
Off and on heavy rain and storms today. Got out between rainstorms to get this one. Still using shutter priority, which seems to have helped me get more "keepers."
12-JUL-2006
July 12, 2006 - Summer flowers
Rained last night and this morning, now just hot and humid. Typical summer weather for West Virginia. These flowers grow along the road, but are difficult to get because they grow on tall stalks that move almost constantly. And, of course, the wind was moving some today.
11-JUL-2006
July 11, 2006 - Yet another rose
Weather is high overcast with rain expected. Several roses are blooming right now, so I had a few from which to choose. I liked the subtle colors of this one. Used shutter priority again, and have found that I'm getting many more "keepers" by doing so.
10-JUL-2006
July 10, 2006 - Sunflower
Weather is very warm and humid. The thermals were moving this morning, so it was difficult to get a flower to hold still long enough to shoot it. I have been waiting for the sunflowers to come out. This is the first one that has.
09-JUL-2006
July 9, 2006 - black-eyed Susan
Warmer today with high clouds. Much of time was great shooting light, with high overcast. I went out purposely to seek out the black-eyed Susans. I used my macro lense and learned in the process that I have better results, as a whole, using shutter priority instead of aperture priority, which is what I normally do. The 100mm macro lense is a great lense but very unforgiving. You have to get it right.
08-JUL-2006
July 8, 2006 - Little blue butterfly
Weather is clear and bright. Also a little warm. Got started late and had to deal with harsh light. This isn't the clearest photo I've taken, but these little fellows are hard to catch.
07-JUL-2006
July 7, 2006 - Yellow lilly
Weather was warm today, but not humid like it usually is. A little warmer than yesterday, though. I spotted these lillies while out scouting for flowers yesterday. I came back to them today and got this shot in the shade.
06-JUL-2006
Red Rose - July 6, 2006
Today was clear and cool for July. After the rains of yesterday, it was bright and sunny, so to avoid the harsh light, I took this one early.
05-JUL-2006
A yellow rose - July 5, 2006
Overcast and rainy most of the day. I dodged between storms to shoot this yellow rose. A rather ordinary day until I spotted these blooming along my walking route.