JUL142009

JUL142009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Unusual to see these white lilies blooming this time of year...they don't last long at all in the recent dry, heat wave though. But something in the environmental conditions (they are located on a street median, so no special garden TLC) has coaxed these buds open to share their beauty. Similarly, working with adolescents, who are often struggling with their position in the world, look for stability and nourishment in their environment - sometimes, they make it on their own...most often, they benefit from that TLC! 3rd Ave S. & 6th St, Naples, FL

JUL132009

JUL132009, originally uploaded by colemama.

I was amused to see this neon sign not only because it hangs over a single tomato, but because it is in the window of a restaurant's kitchen facing an alley with no patron entry...Amazingly (or perhaps because of the sign?) there were a number of cars outside the front entrance when I made the walk around! :) Nice smile, especially for a Monday! But it also reminded me that we often have to 'back door' our way to change - not sure how the tomato fits in, though...Any takers? :) 8th St & 6th Ave S, Naples, FL

JUL122009

JUL122009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Sun-bleached coral washed ashore with the morning tide - its light white color in contrast with the 'dirty' sand upon which it rests. Just another treasure to appreciate for its beauty and then walk by!
5th Ave N. & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

JUL112009

JUL112009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Masts and riggings, sail-wrapped booms and lines are all multiplied many fold in this view - it looks quite unorganized and chaotic. But every object has a purpose and an interaction with other objects on the sailboat! There are similarities amongst the boats, but there are certainly differences as well. Taking ownership of one of these boats is quite an expensive upkeep. Even then, they are not really owned, as once they are released from the slip, they take on a life of their own when the sails are raised and the winds are blowing. They can be managed to some degree with a good understanding of boat's characteristics and environmental influences, but one always needs to be ready for the 'unexpected'! Sounds potentially interchangeable with our notion of students....Gulfshore Blvd and Mooring Line Dr., Naples, FL

JUL102009

JUL102009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Stopping to snap this Crown of Thorns at at traffic light on a busy Friday afternoon. Thankfully, there are no thorns visible here, but that doesn't mean they don't lurk beneath the surface!

So, there are pros and cons with just about everything in life and depending upon your view, you may have a propensity for concentrating on one side or the other. As the proverbial 'fence sitter', I tend to seek balance for most things, but I do concede to having decidedly strong opinions on some issues. Thus, I can be a 'thorn' in someone's side if the 'passion' for or against it is there - sharp, relentless, and piercing. Perhaps it is a good characteristic to temper, but ultimately the goal is to produce an aesthetically pleasing and functional beauty! US 41 E. & Golden Gate Parkway, Naples, FL

JUL092009

JUL092009, originally uploaded by colemama.

You never know what you will find on a campus 'under construction'....this rusty chain has been in the parking lot for a couple of days now. The length-wise perspective represents the infinite potential for interconnected links, rusty or not! Unlike some meanings of the word, 'chain', this perspective does not insinuate restraint, bondage, slowed movement, dependence, or ordered. Instead, this chain (despite it's age) shows flexibility, connectivity, and a unification that is strong but not confining. The ability to stretch out to it's limits and still supple enough to change shape are positive characteristics for endurance - just like many of the networks forged in this digital community! Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

JUL082009

JUL082009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Inspired by Martha's Bowl of Cherries and Bob's Rubarb Muffins, I decided to try a food photograph - not one of my strengths - though eating doesn't usually seem to be an issue!! This dish is a healthy one of fresh picked mango, ripe blueberries, and a sprinkle of homemade granola. Imagine if we could eat like this everyday for every meal!! :) Naples, FL