Montecito, CA

So... I've been a bit distracted lately.

Still taking photos, but haven't had the energy to post them.

I'll start with my most recent photos, since the memories of 

those are still fresh in my mind....

Took a quick trip to California.

Upon arriving, I noticed the overcast sky and the light drizzle...

It didn't last very long and the next day was bright and sunny.

Too sunny.  Headache sunny. At least the cool breeze made it bearable.

Took a quick tour through Lotusland... a botanical wonderland.

Check out the website, or visit this place if you can....

there's quite the history behind this beautiful place.

 Budding Roses...love the bokeh effect here.

 

There were many other sculptures to see,

but I really like the fun shapes of these

with the mouse in the foreground.

 

I like the contrast of the lighter cacti

against the darker, dense vegetation in

the background.

September 11, 2001 - We Remember

Locally, a memorial walk was held this evening to mark
the ninth anniversary of the Sept 11 attacks.

We Remember.

Stuff at Grandma's House

 During lunch, I stopped in at my

Grandma's house for a quick visit.

She always has something good to eat,

and a bit of news from other family members.

As she was giving me an update,

I took a few photos to share with

those family members who

aren't able to see her as often as I can.

I like this metal dress frame...

Grandma sews many things, 

and this item just fits her style so well.

The pink cap was already on there,

and I liked how it went

with the 'dress'.

This princess or queen frog sits happily

facing the kitchen - just one of the many

toys that can be found there.

Grandma's seem to always have a collection of

mis-matched spoons, spatulas and knives

that are ready to whip up a meal when you show up.

And, it never matters which one gets used or

how many are needed to make a meal.

Over good conversation, it never matters.

This is one of the angels that is

watching over the house and

the people inside it.

Being at Grandma's house

seems to transport you back to

feeling like a ten year old kid...

listening to stories, making and sharing

a meal and just hanging out without

having to rush off to the next thing.

Just as a side note:

The 50mm lens was used on all

the above photos.