A little looney...

Loons are generally found in quiet, remote, northern US and Canadian lakes. What a surprise, then, to spot this loon hanging out in the 20-acre fishing lake in a busy suburban park. The recreation path around the water is routinely busy with runners, cyclists, roller bladers, little kids and pets. This loon seemed oblivious to it all. We spotted it several times over a two week period. Who know what lurks in the mind of wildlife?

Blossom

Walking through a nearby forest preserve after dinner last night, we came upon this bed of interesting plants. Each leafy green, umbrella-shaped plant carefully protected a single white blossom. It was quite windy, and I had to sit patiently until the plant was still enough to take this photo. Processed using Topaz Adjust, added a vignette in Photoshop, and dodged the flower somewhat to brighten it up. Does anyone know what this is?

An unusual blogger occurrence

While commenting on Michelle's blog, the word verify was an actual word!

lotion

Wonder how often THAT happens??

The dynamic duo

This pair of cardinals decided to have a late lunch at our pair of bird feeders.

Shot through the window on Sports mode. Lazy, but it got the job done!

Tweet tweet

I'm pretty sure this little guy is a Pine Warbler. What I am sure of is that he's yellow, and has a pretty song.

This is a much more fun shot than last year's entry for yellow, which was of some lame-o plywood in our local big-box home improvement store.

Armor for young and old

In the White Tower, within the grounds of the Tower of London, was a fascinating display of armor. It seems there were sizes for young and old. Imagine a small child, having to wear this...

Shutter speed: 1/20, f/3.5 (it was dark in there!) ISO 800, focal length, 18mm

Looking cool...

Three of the high school students on our London trip, stylin' in their 3-d glasses, waiting for the pre-ride video on the London Eye. Very cool!!