Snowy Egret

Snowy Egret - Palo Alto Baylands

Sometimes I just revel in the spontaneity of photography, when the destination is the impetus, not the goal, and the results are unpredictable. My Sunday afternoon jaunt to the Palo Alto Baylands turned out to be a real treat.

I had no idea what I would find when I drove past the duck pond out to the parking area at the end of the road. Usually I long for a LONGER lens than my usual 70-210 telephoto. Today was special, though, as a small collection of egrets were wading and foraging in the low tide ponds right alongside the path. They couldn't have been more than 15-20 meters away.

They didn't stay long, but I certainly appreciated their patience...

Captions

Some photos just cry out for a caption.

If I'm in a serious mood, I might refer to the actual location and famous object that it is. But really - what was the first thing you thought? I suppose it depends on your mood - and whether you think he's pointing at you.

Anyone care to suggest a caption? Serious or humorous, anything (in good taste) is welcome...

Menlo Park Firefighters Commemorate our 9-11 Heroes

11 September 2001 was an historic day that few will forget. Ten years later, the specter of extremism remains - but I will not forget the way people from all walks of life and beliefs gathered in solidarity against it. I share these photos with gratitude to firefighters who protect and serve communities across this great nation of ours...

Menlo Park Fire District commemorative display, honoring the fire fighters of 9-11
(Menlo Park, CA - 9/10/11)

 

(Photo #1 and #4 featured in the Almanac News Online - www.almanacnews.com)

Amazing spiders

OK, I admit it: I am not generally fond of spiders, especially the ones that make their home inside MY home. But I have to also admit that they really are quite amazing. They are industrious, and their artistic and practical "web engineering" is truly impressive - not to mention their incredible patience.

Perhaps I have a thing or two to learn from them (at least from the ones in my garden)...