MAR312009

MAR312009, originally uploaded by colemama.

These CDs show off their colors...making a definite statement - an attitude much different than the dull surface on the opposite side.

Like a young man and his family who are bravely facing the treatment of leukemia, attitude makes a big difference! Orienting one's thoughts and emotions toward a positive light offers that complex mental state that can truly impact 'mind over matter'. Finding others from whom to garner support and synergize with is a natural supplement to complete the circle. And with the close communities in today's social networking, we are easily connected beyond the traditional strength of family and friends. Thinking about you and your family, Chase! Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

MAR302009

MAR302009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Leaving the school parking lot this afternoon, this scene interested me...enough to pull out the camera! Uploading it in its raw form, though, I found an apathy I'd not anticipated - as dotlizard would say, "I got nothing." And like her "nothings" that are really 'somethings waiting to be discovered', I proceeded to edit my quick capture. Though this photo anticipates questions and thematic concepts, the whole issue of editing comes to the forefront.

Accepting the value of editing is often a tough first step as many expect their first attempt to be good, if not great. Remember that first high school research paper with the emphasis on drafts? Or do you play sports and utilize a fair amount of time in practice to better your skills? How about working on a presentation - do you ever end up with what you started? Chances are your successful ventures involved the process of editing - altering, modifying, enhancing, and/or refining. And when you think about it - isn't this process of editing just as important as that of planning and enacting? Seeing the 'something' often involves the under-emphasized and likely, misunderstood process of editing. Lorenzo Walker campus, Naples, FL

MAR292009

MAR292009, originally uploaded by colemama.

A morning glory at my window satisfies me more than the metaphysics of books. ~Walt Whitman

Simple, fragile, devoid of philosophy and conflict, it celebrates the glorious birth of each new day. Amidst the sand and wispy grasses, this morning glory beckons celebration and optimism! How can such a thing of beauty survive in such harsh conditions? It must find nurturing in unexpected places! Such is the nature in us all! 4th Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL

MAR282009

MAR282009, originally uploaded by colemama.

At it's peak in full bloom, this signature tree is absolutely intoxicating - sorry that the sky was overcast and not the usual clear, crisp blue...but in addition to the sunshine yellow blossoms, the gnarled and snake-like growth of the branches is evident. I so love the uniqueness of this tree - one other quirk is that all or most of the leaves drop to allow for the bloom and once the flowers are spent, brand new silvery green leaves dress the branches again. Alas, the 'yellow' is only an annual event - thus my enthusiastic picture-taking (see more via photostream)! The yellow tabebuia stands as a great reminder of each and every one of our individual and special traits! West Blvd @ Waterside Shops at Pelican Bay, Naples, FL

MAR272009

MAR272009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Distraction from the wait at a long traffic light is always of added value when it fits the bill for something to brighten the end of another work week - this pair of 'birds' did the trick! Colorful and uplifting, these flowers appear to represent the antidote to anything negative - nature's beauty at its best...and a fine reward for my searching eye! Davis Blvd & US 41 E, Naples, FL

MAR262009

MAR262009, originally uploaded by colemama.

This impressive staghorn fern is surviving, but not thriving due to the drought conditions, which not only impact the water it needs, but also the surrounding trees that should provide partial, dappled sunlight instead of full sun. Some don't appreciate their beauty, but the staghorn is definitely grand and unusual, growing sans soil and reproducing via spores. Will check back after the summer rains and capture it in its full glory! 6th Street and 2nd Ave N, Naples, FL

MAR252009

MAR252009, originally uploaded by colemama.

Gorgeous day, though a bit warm...thought I'd check out the beach on the way home for a possible photo or two. I thought my focal point was on the beach umbrella, but the glare was so bad, I couldn't see the LCD screen well, but snapped it anyway. Obviously I was wrong, focusing instead on the sea oats! But, I like the blurred foreground greenery and the fuzzy sunbathers, beach chairs and umbrellas - it is a new perspective. Challenging the range of the eye (and the mind) to stretch beyond the usual level of comfort offers many rewards...2nd Ave N & Gulf of Mexico, Naples, FL