Posted in Butterflies, des moines, flowers, home, iowa, landscapes, nature, Photography, States, Travel Photography
Tags: flowers, gardens, Irises, pansys, Pink flowers, Tube flowers
Sometimes I do Like the Snow
•June 22, 2022 • 2 CommentsIt’s a repost, but it has been so hot I wanted to look at something cool..
Almost 9 Years
•June 22, 2022 • Leave a CommentIts hard to believe I have had a Blog here for almost 9 years. When I first started posting for whatever reason, my photos were small and thumbnail size and i didnt post on a very regular basis. Back when I started Wordpess was alot different, not as many options on anything and my knowledge on how anything worked was limited. So I will be going through and cleaning up a bit. Fixing photo sizes where I can etc and Reposting certain Posts along with adding new content.
Hope you all stick with me as I continue my blogging journey.
Have a wonderful and safe day!
Couple Favorites from New Mexico
•June 21, 2022 • Leave a CommentWhen I first got to New Mexico I didn’t think I would ever find anything to like about there area I lived in, but if you look you eventually find something that just might catch your eye. I learned to find the beauty in a landscape I wasn’t used to….
Broken Down Fence
•June 18, 2022 • Leave a CommentI ended up adding some shrubs and tree to this one, but i like this simple version.
Forest Barn
•June 14, 2022 • 2 CommentsBarn needs a few tweaks, already made a few after this one..
Practice Practice Practice
•June 11, 2022 • Leave a CommentThat one word covers almost anything you do, no matter what it is.
Practice Makes Perfect
Now that one, this i’m finding out today is not always true. Practice does not always make perfect. Sometimes I practice shapes because im not that good at them individually. Circles don’t like me, especially today.
So I have a book with exercise and one was a grouping of circles that I liked. Seems like the more I draw circles the worse I get. I start over thinking then I get frustrated. I have one group thats decent but has flaws.
Sometimes I do a drawing, take a photo which shows me how much it sucks then i make notes. This is the start of that.
This coming week is going to be hot hot so I will probably be posting drawings..
Have a good weekend!
Where the Buffalo Don’t Roam
•June 7, 2022 • 1 CommentI took a short drive thinking I would go see the baby Buffalo. What I saw was dark spots waaaay off in the distance where ya couldn’t drive or walk. Walking would definetly be bad, there are signs that say “stay in vehicle at all times, buffalo are wild and unpredictable” or close to that. Not like I wanted to go tromping through bug and tick infested grass anyway. Not that I know if ticks are out yet, but you know theres bug or worse, snakes!
Granted I went during the warm part of the day when the herd is out in the trees where I am sure it was cool and shady. So that is on me, but I am still a bit disappointed. There will be another day tho.
View From the Hill
•June 2, 2022 • Leave a CommentI think our city had a purple theme going on this year. But thats ok cause I like the color, and it was all very pretty. It was a gorgeous day to get out and enjoy our Capital. Des Moines, Iowa
Tank Hill Park
•June 1, 2022 • Leave a CommentJohnston, Iowa overlooking Camp Dodge.
Camp Dodge has a long history in Iowa. Construction started in 1907 and was opened in 1917 as a training facility for the U.S. Army National Guard during World War 1 and would later become the Iowa National Guard.
The site was originally used for training the Iowa Militia. Camp Dodge was named after Brigadier General Grenville M. Dodge who organized the Iowa National Guard in 1856.
Camp Dodge is also home to the Gold Star Museum.
Waiting on the Moon
•May 15, 2022 • 3 CommentsIt is a gorgeous cool evening, was perfect for sitting at the lake and waiting on the Eclipse of the Moon. I got to the lake early so i could, fingers crossed, get a good spot, which i did. There was a couple parked in front of me that were also there to view the Eclipse, super nice, we chatted a bit wished each other good luck and then they went off to do their thing.
Its a pretty little lake with a nice paved walking trail that many were taking advantage of. As the time went by more people started showing up. Some really nice and some that were not so friendly. Which I did witness and was warned to avoid. Needless to say I didnt linger on the dock long and went to a different location. One where there was less light and other distractions. But then I started creeping myself out thinking, ya know it really is dark and anyone could sneak up. LOL, being female, parked out in the dark it is a valid concern. So I took a few more shots and called it a night.
I was kind of suprised by the tailgate parties and the little clusters of people out watching and waiting. But who can blame them for getting out of the house on such a nice night. They were all laughing and talking and having a good time.
I hopefully got a few good shots, and will find out tomorrow when I go through them. I do know there were some epic fails so I will just pretend those do not exist.
But here’s a shot of the lake from my phone as I was waiting.
Have a wonderful peace filled night!
New Hike Today
•May 14, 2022 • 5 CommentsDoggy and I went to a new park today for our walk. Its a heavily wooded with lots of paths through the woods for hikers and bikers and a paved path for a smoother walk. We chose the woods, the trails are smooth and well worn but alot of up and down. We were both hot and ready to hit some AC once done.
Beautiful Day
•May 13, 2022 • Leave a CommentSince most of the week has been hot (90’s high/dew points 70’s) it was nice to wake up to what May should feel like. Cool! Granted i would still prefer 60’s with a cool breeze year round. But today I will take it and enjoy. So we got out for a walk to enjoy some fresh air. Think the dog enjoyed it more than I did though..
Trees a Blooming
•May 9, 2022 • 2 CommentsStill a bit overcast but beautiful morning. Sun was out more by the time I left.
Historic Valley Junction, Iowa
•May 8, 2022 • Leave a CommentValley Junction is a nice place to spend some time browsing the shops or stopping by one of the many bars and resturants for a bite to eat. And with over 30 specialty stores, your bound to find something to take home, whether its fudge or some suprise treasure, did I mention the fudge yet?. There is also events held throughout the year, Farmers Markets, car shows, Jingle in the junction, the list goes on…So stop by for an afternoon.
Click on the link below for a little Valley Junction History.
Random Landscapes
•May 6, 2022 • 1 CommentI was cleaning off memory cards and found a few that I had forgotten for whatever reason.
Whats the Saying about Woodchucks
•May 5, 2022 • Leave a CommentHow much wood can a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?
It really is a tongue twister at times, and for some reason it’s always in my head when I see this little thing. I can’t ever get close enough to get decent photos, it’s very skittish and when it hears the click of the door opening it’s back to its hiding place. But I still like seeing it and it’s friend when they come out. So more often than not I watch from the window or if I happen to be outside I just watch quietly so as not to disturb them.
Blue Skies
•May 4, 2022 • Leave a CommentSmiling at me……..Finally saw some sun and blue skies. But it is already going away..
Was nice while it lasted.
May Flowers
•May 4, 2022 • Leave a CommentJust a few flowers from around town. Will be nice to get out and take pics once the sun finally comes out!
Pella Iowa Tulip Festival
•May 4, 2022 • 1 CommentIts that time of year again. So if your in Iowa or close enough, get your walking shoes and camera ready! Also your Appetite!
You do have to pay but it is worth it, and Pella is a good place to visit even on a regular day. And besides who does not love Tulips and Dutch Letters?
Morning Walk
•May 2, 2022 • Leave a CommentSince it wasn’t raining decided to take the dog to the park for a walk, was a nice change of scenery from where we had been going. The park is heavily wooded with dirt trails heading off into the woods, but main trail into the park is paved. Not sure how far or where all it goes, but the trails are well worn and are used frequently. There is also a disc golf course along the outer edges off the park.
No Longer Needed?
•May 2, 2022 • 3 CommentsAfter this chilly rainy weekend I am starting to wonder. It’s another dreary chilly start to the day and it’s May 2nd. I should’nt complain since I know by June I will be complaining it’s hot. But you know it is chilly and damp when even the cats are hogging the heating vents or wont come out from under the pile of blankets they have burrowed into. Oh well, it will get better, Right?
Happy Monday everyone! Have a safe and Wonderful Day!
May Day, do you celebrate?
•May 1, 2022 • 2 CommentsI wish I could say it was a beautiful sunny mild day. But i cant. Its been overcast for days, bordering on cold with high winds that just keep blowing. Granted stormy skies are beautiful in their own way. But I want to plants flowers and open windows. And even tho i am not a sun worshipper, I DO need to see the sun once in awhile for longer than 5 minutes. I know by mid summer i will be wishing for cool breezes and milder temps, but for now i will settle for atleast 60 degrees lol..
But I can’t remember if we have ever had any traditional May day celebrations in my family, I know its more of a European thing and they have celebrations. And I know we have done May day baskets, but other than that i am not sure if the States acknowledge it.
Anyone celebrate it in any way, would love to know.
Have a Happy first day of May!
Faithful Sidekick
•April 30, 2022 • Leave a CommentCharlie even though he is getting older, still likes to get out and go on adventures.
Silky Cotton Weed
•April 29, 2022 • Leave a CommentI think these are a cotton weed but not sure if thats the correct term for them. But they always remind me of silky cotton.
Taking Flight
•April 27, 2022 • Leave a CommentThis Herring was startled into flight by a family with a dog that was walking down to the shore. I got a few shots but not as many as I would have liked.
Cats Do Rule
•April 26, 2022 • 1 CommentMost anyone who knows me, knows that I like cats, some call me the crazy cat lady. Im not that crazy, but I do love my cats. When times are crazy, or im feeling down or stressed they are there. Unconditional love and acceptance. They make me laugh, cry, they annoy me, but I can always count on them to put a smile on my face. And they are always at the door when I get home, just waiting.
I hate when i hear stories about animals being abused, or kittens tossed away. It makes me want to save them all but I can’t. But it also makes me cuddle mine a little bit more and appreciate them more. As i write this they are all snuggled in their favorite spots, waiting for their end of the day treat.
If you have pets, doesnt matter what kind, cuddle them a bit more and feel blessed to have them in your life. They deserve nothing but the best from us.
Windy Sunday
•April 24, 2022 • Leave a CommentSometimes I think these really windy days are our new reality, but thats ok. Was still a beautiful day to get out and enjoy some sunshine and fresh air. These are from my phone, I had my cameras, just have not had a chance to go through them all yet. But there was a little bit of everything. Eagles, herrings, Pelicans, Ducks. Most were flying around or to far away. Those will be on the cameras.
Winter Wont Let Go
•April 17, 2022 • Leave a CommentWinter just keeps trying to hang on. Took a couple shots on my way home from time with family. Even tho weather wasn’t the best it was good to spend time with loved ones.
Art Class Day
•January 29, 2022 • 2 CommentsToday was painting day, still getting the hang of techniques and holding the brushes etc. But it was a fun class with a great group of people who did amazing jobs on their beach scenes. Me well, I am my own worst critique… But here is the finished painting..
Tracks…..kids or deer?
•January 16, 2022 • Leave a CommentTry a combo, neighborhood kids making use of the hill and the dozen or so deer that like to wander around the yard. It is gorgeous out tho with that blue sky and blanket of white snow..
The Dig Out Begins!
•January 15, 2022 • Leave a CommentWe got over a foot of snow yesterday, weather man said we were below normal snow totals but I am pretty sure we made up for it in a day….Cant remember the last time we got this much snow. Its beautiful and peaceful to look at, but cant say the digging out part is a joy.. Thanks Mother Nature!
Turned Out Pretty Good
•December 28, 2021 • Leave a CommentAtleast I think so……
I did some art for my sisters for Christmas. I forgot to take final photos but had my sis take photos of one I did for her. I think they turned out nice, and look great framed…
Happy Birthday Iowa
•December 28, 2021 • Leave a CommentHere are some Iowa facts….
December 28, 1846, Iowa became the 29th state
Flower…Prairie Rose
Tree…Burr Oak
Bird…Eastern Goldfinch
Rock…Geode
The word “Iowa” comes form the American Indian tribe of the same name.
Iowa became the 29th state on December 28, 1846.
Iowa is the only state bordered by two navigable rivers; the Missouri River to the west and the Mississippi River to the east.
The capital of Iowa is Des Moines, although Iowa City was first
Iowa’s nickname is the Hawkeye state.
Iowa has 3 state universities: Iowa State University,(Cyclones) University of Iowa, (Hawkeyes) and University of Northern Iowa.
The world’s first electronic digital computer was built and operated by researchers at Iowa State University in the 1930’s
Sergeant Charles Floyd, the only person to die during Lewis and Clark’s historic journey, is buried in Sioux City.
Iowa Timeline
1673 – Louis Joliet and Jacques Marquette are the first Europeans to visit Iowa.
1682 – Robert de La Salle claims Iowa for France as part of the Louisiana Territory.
1788 – The first permanent settlement is established in Dubuque.
1803 – Iowa becomes part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase.
1804 – Explorers Lewis and Clark travel through Iowa on their way to the Pacific Ocean.
1808 – Fort Madison is built by the U.S. Army.
1812 – Iowa becomes part of the Missouri Territory.
1832 – The Black Hawk War occurs.
1838 – The Iowa Territory is established.
1846 – Iowa is admitted to the Union becoming the 29th state.
1857 – Des Moines becomes the capital city.
1928 – Iowan Herbert Hoover is elected the 31st U.S. president
Doesnt Look Like Summer
•December 8, 2021 • Leave a CommentIts crazy weather. One day it is in the 30’s next day 50 or 60. Make up your mind already. But it definetly does not look green any more.
Neal Smith Trail
•November 16, 2021 • Leave a CommentWent for a quick walk this morning. Didn’t have my camera but I took some shots with my phone. Still alot of pretty colors but the leaves are falling fast. Not to mention it was windy and chilly and I wasn’t dressed for the cooler temps. All the same tho it was a pretty morning just to get out.
Horse of Course
•November 2, 2021 • 2 CommentsIm still working on horses and probably will continue to do so. I have been doing different areas of the horse. But ya know sometimes it is difficult to sketch and draw when you have a cat leaning over your shoulder watching what you do. And he keeps coming back no matter how many times he is moved.
I need to work on the eyes for sure..The one of just the ears different one.
As always, thank you for looking and have a wonderful and safe day.
Land of Mushrooms
•November 1, 2021 • Leave a CommentEver have moments where you see or hear something and it takes you back to your childhood? Growing up the doors of my bedroom had mushrooms on them. They were there when we moved in and we just left them. But for whatever reason I would just stare at them. I could imagine little creatures and faeries running through this forest of mushrooms and I could see myself riding my horse along trails made by the mushroom creatures. I had a good imagination lol. The mushrooms were different colors but mostly had the same shape.
Im not sure if the mushrooms are still there or if they have been painted over. But I picked up some drawing books at the library and I saw the mushrooms in one and it just took me back to that room growing up. I asked my sister if she remembered them, I got a nope.. Thats ok, i remember them with a smile..
Horse
•October 31, 2021 • Leave a CommentMy first attempt at drawing a non stick horse.. I do kind of like it but it is far from perfect which is what i like about it.
Libraries…A Community Must Have
•October 30, 2021 • 2 CommentsLibraries are good for communities, I think they are essential. Not just for people, like me who just love reading, but they offer so much. They offer kids of all ages a place to go after school if they need to for homework, research or just whatever. My library has a place designated for children and a space for teenagers. They not only offer books and dvds, but they have tablets, a computer area, copying and printing, a book sales area.
Other Examples: GENEALOGY…. my library, I dont know if they all do this, offers free access to Ancestry.com. you can access it at the library or you can access it at home. I have used this many times. I think going into the libraries you have more access to features than when you log on at home. ABCMouse……an online interactive thing for young kids, has reading, language arts, math, science etc. A WORLD CINEMA COLLECTION…..foreign films etc. Not my thing but could be for someone. Maps, Travel, Food, other genalogy access, jobs. The list goes on and on
It even gives access to our local newspaper.
It also has activities for kids, book clubs, scrapbook clubs when I was in today, was told ignore anything that looks out of place as lastnight they had lazer tag going on. I am thinking ok interest8ng. My library is 2 stories so plenty of room I suppose.
And one thing I thought was great is The Adventure Pass. Iowa libraries give free access to certain attractions. It gives passes for 2 adults and 2 kids. Did i mention its FREE? You can get passes for the Zoo, Botanical Center, Science Center and a couple other places. Its an awesome program, especially with the rising prices. They do fill up quick so you do have to plan these trips. And different libraries in different parts of the state probably offer passes for their area attractions.
My library recently did an overhaul/Update and it looks good. And I really do like my library they offer alot, the staff are super nice and helpful and its just a nice space to be in.
So check out your library, might be suprised at what they offer..
Happy Friday
•October 29, 2021 • 1 CommentIt’s finally Friday. A day most people look forward to as it signals the end of the work week. For me Friday has brought an end to the rain! Finally it’s over, but it’s still cloudy and very windy. And next week will be even colder. But that is ok, summer was long and hot and it’s finally Fall.
I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe weekend planned.
Just Gloomy
•October 28, 2021 • 1 CommentIts a gloomy Thursday morning. Its been raining off and on since the weekend and even tho we need the rain, like everyone else, im kind of over it. But I went outside to grab a few pics with my phone, got soaked and now im chilled. Its a chilly rain, i can say that. Everything does look pretty even tho its wet and gloomy. Pics arent the best cause I resized them smaller than I had intended.. But Gotta love Fall on days like this even if it is gloomy and makes you want to nap.. Its a Good day to snuggle with the furbabies and read a book I have been meaning to.
Enjoy your Thursday everyone!
Madison County, Iowa Parks
•October 25, 2021 • Leave a CommentVisited a couple parks in Madison County over the weekend. They are located outside of Winterset or you can get to them through the Winterset City Park… The picture at the botton, you do drive across that to get to the rest of the park on the other side. You dont want to drive across if there’s alot of water tho, but what was there wasn’t bad.
Back Roads
•October 23, 2021 • Leave a CommentWhat is it about Back roads, Country Roads, Dirt Roads, whatever you want to call them? A lot of people make fun of me cause im a Back Roads type, I love driving back roads, especially in the fall. You see so much more than jumping on an interstate or any highway and flying 70 mph. I have nothing against highways, they get you where you need to go and sometimes you have no choice but to take them. I just prefer taking a different route.
I think my dad got me started on my love of back roads. Growing up dad worked the night shift and sometimes on his nights off he of course would be awake in the middle of the night and sometimes I would wake up and hang out with him until he would send me back to bed or I just fell asleep.
Sometimes we would watch a movie or I would watch him play River Raider, anyone who knows that game, I probably just aged myself…lol Other times we would get in the truck and go for a drive, didn’t matter where we went but we would drive the back roads to where ever. sometimes it was still dark when we got back other times the sun would be coming up while we were still out.
I dont know if he knows how much I loved that time I got to spend with him and to this day I still cherish those memories. We dont get to spend much time just going for a drive anymore but I still cherish the time I do get to spend with him…But my love of driving the back roads is still there and every chance I get I go for a drive.
Doesn’t matter where the road takes me….
Pear, Maybe?
•October 9, 2021 • 4 CommentsLastnight I had my first oil/acrylic painting class. I have never used oil before but I ended up liking it.
I will admit I was a bit nervous about going as i’m used to pencil and how I do things but it doesn’t hurt to go outside your comfort zone and try something different and I am glad I did. I did mess up a bit but it’s a learning process so I can’t complain to much. Im sure I will go again and will improve. So hopefully my pear atleast looks like a pear…
It was fun though, good company, lots of laughter, food, drinks and even made new friends. So overall a good evening..
Why?
•October 7, 2021 • 5 CommentsWhy is it cats, or pets in general, dislike when their humans are reading? Doesnt matter what it is, books, newspapers, magazines etc, especially if it interferes with their habits. They feel the need to make their presence known.. I finally gave up since I was clearly interferring in her nightly bedtime routine…
MY CREATIVE SELF 