JUN302009

JUN302009, originally uploaded by colemama.

The City of Naples installed twin sculptures (one on each corner) on the same block as the new four-story parking garage - a way to beautify the area as well as distract us from the tall box-like structure. Though not true glass, the material in this colorful quilt takes on reflective, transparent, and translucent qualities that delight and enchant. Valuing art is certainly a personal experience - the multiple facets in this outdoor sculpture are ever-changing with the rays (or lack) of sunlight and the interaction with other environmental features make it extra-special! 8th St S & 6th Ave N, Naples, FL

JUN292009

JUN292009, originally uploaded by colemama.

What an interesting and colorful collection of lawn debris - there are tree branches, some seemingly healthy with a clean cross cut and some obviously diseased with fungus covering and broken-off ends; there are various sizes and perspectives of palm fronds; and there is a tangled web of twig-like sinews with small black berries - all casually displayed on a patch of green grass! Wednesday is 'pick-up' day, so this 'work of art' has limited exposure...but now it is captured for a little longer in digital format! All in the course of a daily dog walk! Naples, FL

JUN282009

JUN282009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Sometimes the original goal is subsumed by an accidental discovery. The aim of this shot was to experiment with the light on the flower and to try to capture its transparency...instead, my eye is drawn to the leaf veins which 'pop' in the selective sunlight. Somehow, these distractions are acceptable (and even desirable) for a goal-oriented individual - in fact, in bigger terms, these might reflect the beginnings of something innovative! 6th Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

JUN272009

JUN272009, originally uploaded by colemama.

It is hot and humid here - iced refreshment comes in many forms via Regina's! In contradiction are the holiday twinkle lights wrapping the pole and hanging from the awning with an implication of cooler weather. With our need to seek equilibrium, this image seemingly sends a mixed message. Many of our messages come wrapped in many colors and are cloaked with varying degrees of consistency. It is no wonder that we become confused and react to these inconsistencies in a variety of ways - sometimes, inappropriately! 5th Ave N and 8th St S, Naples, FL

JUN262009

JUN262009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Playing the proper host to my buddy, @vanhookc, we ventured off to the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary (after the obligatory beach walk!) for an authentic experience in various Florida ecosystems. Despite the threat of rain, we braved the heat and mosquitoes and immediately heard/saw some Carolina Wren and a Red-Shouldered Hawk. Unfortunately, that 'threat of rain' turned into a major downpour with accompanying thunder and lightning. Seeking shelter with some other drenched Sanctuary visitors in a primitive structure, we both lamented on the lack of photographic opportunities (primarily in trying to keep our lenses dry!). Eventually, the rain tapered off into a drizzle and we headed off again, ran into a young man visiting from Germany who was kind enough to point out this alligator cooling off in the mud hole! Naturally, the gator became the highlight of our walk - well, until we saw the doe and fawn white-tailed deer!

The soaking we received did not dampen our spirits nor conversations! @vanhookc is a wonderfully optimistic individual and with exception of the couple of times that she wondered which path to follow, she continued to share her positive thoughts! Additionally, she looked for a 'lesson' in this venture - be better prepared! :) Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, Immokalee, FL

JUN252009

JUN252009, originally uploaded by colemama.

The power and delight of virtual connections - a f2f meeting with @vanhookc! Time flies when you are 'catching up' and before we knew it, we were both in need of a 365 photo! I snapped this at the restaurant while she took a phone call (regrettably only with my iPhone in low light, so some post-processing touch ups) - you'll have to check hers out, too!

I've been fortunate to meet some of my virtual connections 'in person' and I'm always amazed at how easy it is to converse beyond the superficial. Many question the validity and value of online networks and relationships, especially with consideration to the amount of time spent on the web. Though I certainly value f2f relationships, underestimating the power of online social and professional networks is potentially 'hazardous to your growth and happiness'! D'Amico's Restaurant, Naples, FL

JUN242009

JUN242009, originally uploaded by colemama.

A trio of shiny cherry red lights stand ready for the certificate of occupancy (CO) for a trio of new buildings on campus! Thankfully, the second phase of a three-phase project is coming to an end...one more to go! These lights serve as a nice (we hope!) accent to the shades of blues and greens throughout most of the campus buildings. Lorenzo Walker Campus, Naples, FL

JUN232009

JUN232009, originally uploaded by colemama.

The typical humid weather in SW Florida provides a ripe environment for rust - though not necessarily the 'neglectful' type! A couple of experiences this week reminds me that even though we may be 'rusty' in a particular skill, it doesn't mean that it can't be re-learned or that the 'need to know' can't be re-introduced or re-emphasized. At least rustiness can be removed - how does that compare with apathy? Naples, FL

Jun222009

Jun222009, originally uploaded by colemama.

The teenager living next door has been sporting this cool 'graffiti' on his rear window for awhile now - actually, I'm surprised he hasn't been pulled over for a violation of view obstruction! I've always appreciated the stencil-like design, finding it reminiscent of my own teenage years during a very different (and seemingly the same) time! My 'doodles' looked much the same....so some things never change. This young man (not unlike myself at his age) has announced his values and beliefs for all the world to see - in such a way that only the youth can do! I'm proud of him and all the young people who responsibly accept a worthy cause to counterbalance their 'expected' self-centeredness.

On another note, today's message seems particularly poignant with reflection on not only those in Iran struggling for their rights, but all who have died or suffered needlessly. Naples, FL

JUN212009

JUN212009, originally uploaded by colemama.

These solid and strong pillars provide the basic foundation for one of several sets of wooden groins built on Naples Beach to decrease beach erosion. Secondarily, they act as rest stops for a large variety of birds - suspiciously absent in this photograph!!

As a tribute to all of the fathers in the world, my hope is that you use your own power (as well as your vulnerabilities) to support and encourage your children to become who they are and to do so with kindness and optimism. Your Father's Day gifts will be evident in your children! 5th Ave N & Gulf of Mexico

JUN202009

JUN202009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Suffice it to say that there's nothing like watching the dolphins and other wildlife from the water....spent the morning boating around Marco Island and identified a half dozen dolphins for a research study. This one is riding the boat's wake - he had a buddy, too - but I could never capture them together! Scientists have suggested that this behavior is pure play - just a way to enjoy themselves (and entertain humans!) It was great that our recreational times coincided today! Mangrove straits near Marco Island and Gulf of Mexico

JUN192009

JUN192009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Always amazed at how the photograph somehow 'speaks' to me...this was just a random shot while waiting at the mall. I've always loved the leaf stencil decor, but the interaction of the palm tree and shadow are so natural and yet so unusual! There is something benign and mysterious about this capture and yet, there is nothing awry! Coastland Center, Golden Gate Pkwy & Goodlette Frank Rd, Napels, FL

JUN182009

JUN182009, originally uploaded by colemama.

This upscale hot dog stand is really taking advantage of the advertising opportunities! Notice there's the ubiquitous television as well - just in case the customers aren't keeping the staff busy enough...or is it just a need to see Tiger get wet in the US Open opening round?!?!! Amazingly, it attracts a fairly decent lunch crowd in a very unlikely location! Estey Ave and Airport Rd, Naples, FL

JUN172009

JUN172009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Good Morning! Photographing nature's beauty always feels a bit like 'cheating' as there is little need for skill to capture a memorable and personal sight - of course, there are those who would have done a much better job with what nature has to offer, as well. When things 'seem easy' to accomplish, do you ever find that you assign less value to it? If so, does that mean that only 'hard work' is worthy? Just wondering.... 6th Ave N & 8th St, Naples, FL

JUN162009

JUN162009, originally uploaded by colemama.

The varied colors and plants in this little corner of my neighbor's garden always bring a smile, but the sun's impact really made them shine this evening! Fortunately, they are are relatively care-free and heat tolerant. The bromeliad send up flower spikes that add even more interest to the plant and rather than the traditional green, there are shades of yellow, orange, and light green. There's also a little fan palm shrub and some oyster plants in the foreground. Naples, FL

JUN152009

JUN152009, originally uploaded by colemama.

A day late for Flag Day, but since President Obama has now declared National Flag Week, I'm still 'on time'! But proclamations aside, it is nice to be reminded of our freedom and democracy (or lack thereof) by virtue of where we live - in my case, the United States. The uprisings in Iran, as a result of the disputed Presidential elections, bring to heart the meaning of participatory government...and just as interesting, the power of social media - the impact of the internet and Twitter has influenced worldwide communication in this global event, uncensored by government or religion. Central Ave & 7th St., Naples, FL

JUN142009

JUN142009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Like the spokes of a bicycle wheel, the fan palm extends its appendages in a circular manner. Though they aren't as interconnected, they remind me a bit of the networks to which I belong - my communities on Flickr, Twitter, Facebook, Plurk, Nings and many other online venues, as well as face-to-face relationships in family, friends and colleagues. They are all strongly rooted in the stocky trunk of the tree. The individual fans are a bit more fragile, but hold their own against the wind, rain and summer heat. Looking upward with the background of the blue sky resonates the power of design and function - not only for this tree, but for my networks, too! 4th Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

JUN132009

JUN132009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Snapped this on my way to the Neighborhood Health Clinic for my volunteer stint. Eligibility requires, in part, that the patient is working at least 20 hours per week and has no access to health insurance. As one might imagine, the need for health care at the clinic has dramatically increased during this time of economic hardship. My role as an intake counselor is rewarding when the patient is eligible for our services, but frustrating and even depressing when the patient does not qualify but still has a legitimate need. Our nation's health care system certainly puts the 'stop sign' up to many individuals who need and deserve basic care. One can only hope that steps are being taken to make changes in a positive way! US 41 E. & Central Ave., Naples, FL

JUN122009

JUN122009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Taking photographs of Athena for the rescue group's quarterly newsletter - she really has so many moods - playful, humorous, lazy and alert! Now, if we can just get her health issue under control, she'll be all set! There is such a mutually beneficial relationship between humans and animals - I'm always so amazed at how much they entertain, protect and comfort us! Naples, FL

JUN112009

JUN112009, originally uploaded by colemama.

A mean looking sunset-in-the-making tonight - and the fiery colors from the blazing sun were evident in today's high temperatures and high humidity (yielding a 'feels like' temperature of 100 degrees F). It's summertime! 4th Ave N & 5th St, Naples, FL

JUN102009

JUN102009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Struck by the double stacks of red canoes on the early morning commute, I stopped for a quick shot! The red color is such an eye-catcher - wish I would have been able to upright one for some water time...though it ended up being a very hot and humid day. The trailer had Georgia plates, so I wonder if there's a canoe trekking group in town! U.S. 41 E & River Point Dr., Naples, FL

JUN092009

JUN092009, originally uploaded by colemama.

These delicate bougainvilleas were begging to be photographed as I waited at a red light. Though not native to Florida, the bougainvillea is a very prolific addition to our landscapes - still, I never grow tired of them. It's funny how we adopt certain favorites for our comfort zone - whether it be music, food, people, activity, we tend to gravitate to something familiar with perceived security. So feel free to share one of your 'comforts'! Davis Blvd and U.S. 41 East, Naples, FL

JUN082009

JUN082009, originally uploaded by colemama.

This mango won't be ripe and ready to eat for another month...and it will still be a race against the ducks to capture the prize! But the sweet and mellow succulence of the mango is hard to beat - so I'll be watching! Naples, FL

JUN072009

JUN072009, originally uploaded by colemama.

In the final preparations for dinner and for some reason I'm reflecting on those who are without their daily nutrition - might be watching those on the shoreline poking the sand for their dinner or that compelling television advertisement for Meals on Wheels or even the lucky Powerball winner in South Dakota down on his luck - a rancher trying to coax a living from the land.

Hunger - much more than a need for food - can be a motivator for learning as well. Creating hungry students (wanting them to come back for more) is a lofty goal, but one well worth striving for - imagine the possibilities when teens are starved for knowledge and wisdom...or maybe they already are and we are not feeding them...3rd Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

JUN062009

JUN062009, originally uploaded by colemama.

The regular school year ended Tuesday and summer session started on Thursday...and like this beach ball, I'm feeling a little deflated - it was the longest week ever! :) Trying to energize and innovate is tough, but at least I'm not at the mercy of the sand blown wind conditions that this beach ball faces today! There's going to be a light at the end of the tunnel...that I know - just don't know when or how bright it will shine, but it will be there. In the meantime, my focus is on the small steps that I can control! 2nd Ave S & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

JUN052009

JUN052009, originally uploaded by colemama.

This early morning stormy sky easily compensates for the even earlier 'wake-up' call with lightning, thunder and a just a speck of rain! Looking at all of the layers reminds me of the depth and dimension in undertaking a major goal. The darkness and gloom is but an antithesis of the underlying brightness and clarity. Despite all of the similarities, my first impression is very simply the pure pleasure of inhaling the beauty of this sky at dawn! Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

JUN042009

JUN042009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Fountain grass is a nice contrast to the typical summer perennials and green grass. Unlike the rather harsh processing of high contrast to this photograph, the tufts are soft and delicate. Like life's happenings, some things are not as they seem! 4th Ave N & 5th St, Naples, FL

JUN032009

JUN032009, originally uploaded by colemama.

This fruit from the sea grape tree is supposedly edible, but I've not indulged...but they are certainly available for the 'pickin'! Most of the time, they are seen as a messy nuisance when they drop ripened to the ground - pretty here, though. 6th St & 3rd Ave N, Naples, FL

JUN022009

JUN022009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Sometimes simple is best! The purpose is clear and the design is minimal, using only a monochromatic scheme. So much in life is complicated unnecessarily and yet ... the paradox is that there is a depth and intricacy in even the simple things. 1st Ave N & 6th St., Naples, FL

JUN012009

JUN012009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Meet Athena .... in a moment of relaxation - she's my new rescue! At an estimated seven years old, she has been around, but unfortunately (or maybe not!) she can't share her history...and since she was found as a stray, we can only make assumptions about her past. And though her prior environment may shed light on her personality and behaviors, we are happy to acquaint each other in the present and look forward to the future! Naples, FL