Tuesday, December 31, 2013

12.31.13

12.31.13 by colemama
12.31.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

At first glance, this looks like a sweet capture of a sea gull and a sea horse along the shoreline - possibly almost maternal. However, the video belies that thought, demonstrating the focus on 'survival of the fittest'. Like the year 2013, this scene ended on a different note than when it began...and cycles transparently into the next year.

Ending my sixth year of 365 photos...and not sure that I will continue in the same vein, as time priorities seems to be taking me on a different route (did not finish off particularly well this year either - my apologies to Flickr buddies for lack of commenting, too!). As well, neither my photos nor my writings have grown over the last couple of years and thus, meaning has been lost. My photography efforts will not be abandoned entirely, of course, but I will seek a different, as yet undetermined, path. Who knows - maybe with the 'pressure' off, I will post more frequently and photograph with more technique and diversity!?! ;)

Stay safe on New Year's Eve - celebrate judiciously in welcoming the new year! Cheers to 2014!

Central Ave & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

12.30.13

12.30.13 by colemama
12.30.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/colemama/11656145684/

Sunday, December 29, 2013

12.29.13

12.29.13 by colemama
12.29.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Ah, the bees are buzzing and collecting their pollen - life is good as we near the end of 2013! Naples, FL

12.28.13

12.28.13 by colemama
12.28.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Carambola (Star fruit), anyone? These and avocados are quite abundant in the neighborhood - ripe for the picking! ;) Naples, FL

Friday, December 27, 2013

12.27.13

12.27.13 by colemama
12.27.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Sunlight play on croton creating colors and patterns. Naples Botanical Garden, Naples, FL

12.26.13

12.26.13 by colemama
12.26.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Finally bloomed - a day late, but pretty anyway..."Candy Apple" amaryllis. Naples, FL

12.25.13

12.25.13 by colemama
12.25.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Christmas day can be exhausting for a golden who loves to open packages, be they hers or someone else's...believe me - this was a rare moment! :) Madison was visiting from NJ - her host, Chance, didn't seem to give a hoot about all the 'hoopla' ;). Naples, FL

12.24.13

12.24.13 by colemama
12.24.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Sun setting over the Gulf of Mexico - imagine the perspective from the paddleboarder! 3rd Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

12.23.13

12.23.13 by colemama
12.23.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Seagulls are down enjoying the sunny beach weather. 5th Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

12.22.13

12.22.13 by colemama
12.22.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Christmas lights - always my favorite...even if just in the untangle stage! Naples, FL

Saturday, December 21, 2013

12.21.13

12.21.13 by colemama
12.21.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

It is taking awhile to get the tree ready for the holidays. Bought a couple of weeks ago, it rested outside for awhile. Once inside, it took a couple more days to get the lights strung. Now still waiting for the ornaments, the tree is beginning to take a festive appearance. Naples, FL

One step at a time is good walking.
~ Chinese proverb

Friday, December 20, 2013

12.20.13

12.20.13 by colemama
12.20.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

The antler headband, jingle bell bracelet, and "Woman" Christmas pin were left on the vanity after being worn. Little did I notice, until the shot was processed, that the headband and bracelet resembled Rudolf himself with that big red nose (jingle bell). :) On another note, if you are not familiar with Designs by Lucinda, take a moment to read her story...inspiring! Naples, FL

12.19.13

12.19.13 by colemama
12.19.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Another night of volunteering at Naples Botanical Garden's Night Lights and this quick photo break brings one of the glowing ball lights on in the lily garden with great reflections of the both the light and the palm tree. Another large crowd tonight - spectacular! The lights go on, but my next volunteer stint isn't until after Christmas - good thing - as much as I enjoy the experience, there's way too much to do yet for holiday preparations. Hopefully, I can get back on my own time as well with the Canon to try some true photography! Naples Botanical Garden, Naples, FL

12.18.13

12.18.13 by colemama
12.18.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Opening night of Night Lights at Naples Botanical Garden and after my three hours of volunteering, there was time for a quick shot at the Thai Pavillion. A record 1100 people enjoyed the lights, musical entertainment, lawn games, letter-writing to Santa, food and a leisurely walk. With temperatures in the mid 60's, it couldn't be much better. Naples Botanical Garden, Naples, FL

12.17.13

12.17.13 by colemama
12.17.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Seasonal colors for this time of year, but not in the form of the traditional holiday flower. Still, the remaining blossoms offer cheer! Naples, FL

12.16.13

12.16.13 by colemama
12.16.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Soldiers guard the 3rd St Christmas tree - wonder what good they would be if someone really wanted to steal it?! ;) For me, I'll just 'steal' a shot! 3rd St & 13th Ave N, Naples, FL

12.15.13

12.15.13 by colemama
12.15.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Similar to a shot taken seconds earlier, this one is amplified by the flying foam of the waves splashing against the wood pilings. [No worries - using a long lens so the camera was nowhere near the salty moisture!] Though a distraction, it can also be viewed as an enhancement - maybe a little festive snow!?! :) Imagine the positive value of distractions - of course, it will likely prevent the check off of many 'to do' lists - but it may reap other benefits. :) 5th Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

Saturday, December 14, 2013

12.14.13

12.14.13 by colemama
12.14.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Capturing the essence of the Marco Island Christmas parade isn't easy with its diverse entries. Yes, there were the usual bands, Shriners, and dignitaries...and, of course, the candy toss. This parade also had about 15 Corvettes decorated in their finest, representation from many churches and yacht clubs, and ... snow (well, sort of!). :) San Marco Dr., Marco Island, FL

12.13.13

12.13.13 by colemama
12.13.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

What can you say? Sadness envelops the human heart as yet another tragedy unfolds at a school shooting...and nearly one year after Sandy Hook Elementary School in CT, this one at Arapahoe HS in CO. In many Southeastern countries, bamboo represents much more than a simple stalk. Lessons to be learned and remembered in this time of grief and incredulity (from Garr Reynolds, Presentation Zen):
1. Bend but don't break. Be flexible yet firmly rooted.
2. Remember - what looks weak is strong.
3. Be always ready.
4. Unleash your power to spring back.
5. Put wisdom in emptiness
6. Commit to (continuous growth).
7. Express usefulness thorough simplicity.
Naples, FL

Thursday, December 12, 2013

12.12.13

12.12.13 by colemama
12.12.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Green has transitioned to dull brown and the sky's blue has faded as well - moving into mid-December. Our winters reflect only subtle changes but the significance is still impressive. Funny how 'relative' makes 'meaning'...Naples, FL

12.11.13

12.11.13 by colemama
12.11.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Taxi, anyone? Rather than hanging out for passengers, this one is a resident of this parking spot as an interesting artifact and crowd pleaser. 12th Ave S & 8th St, Naples, FL

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

12.10.13

12.10.13 by colemama
12.10.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Fill the frame became a slice of camouflage - not just one but two bees (the shadow sure gives away one of them!) invaded the lens space... Nonetheless, it brightened my day. Naples, FL

Monday, December 9, 2013

12.09.13

12.09.13 by colemama
12.09.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Flying high - looks like fun! :) There were many planes criss-crossing our skies today and it was noticeable as our annual 9th grade Geography Geocaching midterm got underway outside under the blue and (ahem) mid 80 degrees Fahrenheit. With the deep freeze settling in most of the United States, we tried not to complain about the heat! ;) I imagine more of those planes will be flying south for some warmth. Naples, FL

Sunday, December 8, 2013

12.08.13

12.08.13 by colemama
12.08.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Flickr has been one of my favorite sites since I first discovered it in 2006. As a very amateur photographer, I was reticent to post and share my photographs. The beauty of the site and the welcoming communities made Flickr a natural for me to move into participating in nearly six years of 365 projects, developing similar projects with my students, meeting people all over the world who have become close Flickr buddies, and developing an awareness/appreciation of visual literacy for thousands through the use of Creative Commons licensing.

Flickr has made changes over the years and some were certainly welcome. The most recent changes, however, have been problematic for me. I have watched as some of my Flickr buddies leave Flickr altogether, while others have split their photos, time and energy among various sites making it difficult to stay connected. I fear Flickr's current direction for change may significantly impact the reason for many Flickr communities to stay viable. Thus, my day of protest. Thanks to muffet68 for bringing to my attention. There's also a petition to sign here!

Saturday, December 7, 2013

12.07.13

12.07.13 by colemama
12.07.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Not an official Pearl Harbor remembrance, but the tropical bird always reminds me of Hawaii and thus, the connection. With the passing of years, there are very fewer survivors still living and there are more terrible tragedies to remember and recognize. The date which will continue "to live in infamy" will undoubtedly keep its place in the history books even if it doesn't get memorialized publicly each year. Naples, FL

12.06.13

12.06.13 by colemama
12.06.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Our Town production by the Naples Players at the Sugden Theater was quite unique...with plenty of audience participation (yours truly even had a speaking role!). The value of community theater is representative of the messages in the story - daily appreciation of our 'ordinary' lives. Though it was not the joyful and cheery message expected during this holiday season, it served its purpose nonetheless! :) Naples, FL

12.05.13

12.05.13 by colemama
12.05.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

A little bit of thryallis shines golden in our unusual warmth...as much of the nation remains in a deep freeze! Naples, FL

12.04.13

12.04.13 by colemama
12.04.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Southwest Florida's response to the 'deep freeze' up north/out west...fall tomato crop ripening up in the warmth of the sun. Egads - that will only bring more tourists and snowbirds!! :) Lorenzo Walker campus, Culinary Garden, Naples, FL

12.03.13

12.03.13 by colemama
12.03.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Helped get the Entrepreneurship class to their field trip this afternoon - yep, Harley Davidson offered their business and marketing expertise to our students...as well as a ride on the simulator! Nothing beats the authentic experience when learning! :) Pine Ridge Rd & Whipporwill Ln, Naples, FL

12.02.13

12.02.13 by colemama
12.02.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

White vinca and purple mona lavendar plants patiently awaiting their final destination in a yet-to-be-purchased planter. Not exactly Christmas colors, but they will last beyond the holiday season! :) Naples, FL

12.01.13

12.01.13 by colemama
12.01.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Foggy morning to start the day and offer a mysterious cloak to the beach joggers. Naples, FL

11.30.13

11.30.13 by colemama
11.30.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

So fresh and relaxed, this water chesnut flower exemplifies my demeanor after a few extra days off work! :) Naples, FL

11.29.13

11.29.13 by colemama
11.29.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Butterfly on lantana - always a great combination! ;) Naples Botanical Garden, Naples, FL

11.28.13

11.28.13 by colemama
11.28.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Thanksgiving brings out the yummy fresh cranberry sauce. If I'm hosting (as this year), the menu is anything but turkey and traditional pies - this year garlic shrimp and key lime pie, along with herbed lentils & rice, roasted tomatoes, cranberry sauce, and peas! Always thankful! :) Naples, FL

11.27.13

11.27.13 by colemama
11.27.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Oh so pretty whites! Naples, FL

11.26.13

11.26.13 by colemama
11.26.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Sunlight peeks through some hanging Spanish moss. Naples, FL

11.25.13

11.25.13 by colemama
11.25.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Alligator flag flower buds hang from the zigzag stems. Naples, FL

11.24.13

11.24.13 by colemama
11.24.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Always hard to resist the blue sky/contrast photo - pretty rough around the edges! :) Naples, FL

11.23.13

11.23.13 by colemama
11.23.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Just some pretty croton to brighten the day! Naples, FL

11.22.13

11.22.13 by colemama
11.22.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Stunning bronze amongst the greenery. Naples Botanical Garden, Naples, FL

11.21.13

11.21.13 by colemama
11.21.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Palm frond remnants leave a rough edge on the trunk of the tree. Naples, FL

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

11.20.13

11.20.13 by colemama
11.20.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Potted annuals are starting to show themselves around town! With many orange tones, these flowers still speak autumn - Florida style! :) Naples, FL

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

11.19.13

11.19.13 by colemama
11.19.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Coming in for a landing...Our campus is only about a mile from the local airport and in the direct flight path, as indicated by this low flying private plane. Season is just beginning ... and so are the daily flights buzzing our roofs (this is only a two-story building, but there is a nearby three-story building as well)! If the lack of response to my request for quotes to get work done at the house is any indication, this is going to be a good season... LW Campus, Naples, FL

Monday, November 18, 2013

11.18.13

11.18.13 by colemama
11.18.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

A few small seed pods caught in a pine needle - wonder if the gentle breeze sent them on their way after I left... Naples, FL

11.17.13

11.17.13 by colemama
11.17.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Volunteered at the Naples Botanical Garden's annual Plant and Garden Sale...and, of course, I didn't leave empty-handed! :) Now, I just need to wait until Tue to see if I won any of my potential raffle prizes. Of course, you always leave a winner when you visit the garden. Naples Botanical Garden, Naples, FL

Saturday, November 16, 2013

11.16.13

11.16.13 by colemama
11.16.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Our school hosted an Open House this morning with invitations to the entire community to visit and see what we do - it is our 40th anniversary! Culinary prepared food, Automotive and other Transportation classes provided demos, Medical Assisting took blood pressure readings, Massage gave chair massages, Cosmetology offered mini manicures and facials, and a variety of other programs had displays. This little girl captured my lens...but it took forever to get her to crack this bit of a smile....fortunately, her eyes are dancing with happiness. :) LW Campus, Naples, FL

11.15.13

11.15.13 by colemama
11.15.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Changing of the guard...though our maples don't drop all of their leaves due to temperature as in northern hemispheres this time of year, our drier conditions often put 'survival of the fittest' at the forefront. Naples, FL

11.14.13

11.14.13 by colemama
11.14.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Just a look at the jagged edge of this bromeliad...it's unusual beauty is defended by the thorny edges, but it can't hide from the webs of tiny spiders nor the dust of neighboring areas. Naples, FL

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

11.13.13

11.13.13 by colemama
11.13.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Like so many birds, we hear this one before seeing it - a distinctive tap/tap/tap...and from the looks of this dead tree, it has been the victim of the pileated woodpecker on more than this occasion. Freedom Park, Naples, FL

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

11.12.13

11.12.13 by colemama
11.12.13, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Good morning! The sequence of today's date was lucky, but being greeted by such a sunrise is just....well, just awesome! Lorenzo Walker Campus, Naples, FL